U.S. patent application number 10/725136 was filed with the patent office on 2005-03-10 for baby gym/bouncer.
Invention is credited to Turner, Dennis M., Zink, Paul T..
Application Number | 20050054486 10/725136 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34228885 |
Filed Date | 2005-03-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050054486 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Turner, Dennis M. ; et
al. |
March 10, 2005 |
Baby gym/bouncer
Abstract
Provided is a baby gym-bouncer comprising a base assembly, a
seat assembly and a handle assembly. The base assembly includes a
base frame connected to the handle assembly. The seat assembly
includes a seat frame pivotally connected to the handle assembly.
The handle assembly is configured such that the seat assembly may
be selectively oriented in a bouncer position or a gym position. In
the bouncer position, the seat assembly is upwardly inclined
relative to the base assembly. In the gym position, the seat
assembly is disposed in substantially abutting contact with the
base assembly such that the baby gym-bouncer assumes a
substantially narrow cross-sectional profile. The seat frame is
configured to be resiliently deflectable downwardly relative to the
base assembly when in the bouncer position.
Inventors: |
Turner, Dennis M.;
(Mooresville, IN) ; Zink, Paul T.; (Indianapolis,
IN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
STETINA BRUNDA GARRED & BRUCKER
75 ENTERPRISE, SUITE 250
ALISO VIEJO
CA
92656
US
|
Family ID: |
34228885 |
Appl. No.: |
10/725136 |
Filed: |
December 1, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60501762 |
Sep 10, 2003 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/27 ;
482/28 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2210/50 20130101;
A47D 13/107 20130101; A63B 22/00 20130101; A63B 2208/12
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/027 ;
482/028 |
International
Class: |
A63B 005/11 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A baby gym-bouncer, comprising: a base assembly having a base
frame; a seat assembly having a seat frame; and a handle assembly
connected to the base frame and pivotally connected to the seat
frame, the handle assembly being configured such that the seat
assembly may be selectively oriented in one of a bouncer position
and a gym position; wherein the seat assembly is upwardly inclined
relative to the base assembly in the bouncer position, the seat
assembly being disposed in substantially abutting contact with the
base assembly in the gym position such that the baby gym-bouncer
assumes a substantially narrow cross-sectional profile.
2. The baby gym-bouncer of claim 1 wherein the seat frame is
configured to be resiliently deflectable downwardly relative to the
base assembly when in the bouncer position.
3. The baby gym-bouncer of claim 1 wherein the seat assembly is
sized and configured to be complementary to the base assembly.
4. The baby gym-bouncer of claim 1 further comprising a toy bar
assembly having a toy bar frame pivotally mounted to the seat
frame.
5. The baby gym-bouncer of claim 1 wherein the toy bar assembly is
sized and configured to be complementary to the seat assembly.
6. The baby gym-bouncer of claim 4 further comprising at least one
toy releaseably engaged to the toy bar assembly.
7. The baby gym-bouncer of claim 4 wherein the toy bar assembly is
configured to be disposed in substantially abutting contact with
the seat assembly.
8. The baby gym-bouncer of claim 4 wherein opposing ends of the toy
bar frame each include a toy bar hub pivotally engagable to a toy
bar mount such that the toy bar assembly may be selectively
angularly oriented relative to the seat assembly.
9. The baby gym-bouncer of claim 1 wherein the handle assembly
includes a pair of seat frame tracks formed on opposing ends of the
handle assembly, the seat frame tracks being configured to maintain
the seat assembly in the bouncer or gym positions.
10. The baby gym-bouncer of claim 9 wherein: each one of the seat
frame tracks includes an upper and a lower detent formed in the
handle assembly; the upper and lower detents of respective ones of
the seat frame track being configured to maintain the seat assembly
in the bouncer and gym position respectively.
11. The baby gym-bouncer of claim 1 wherein the seat assembly may
be releaseably secured to the base assembly at respective
perimeters thereof such that the seat assembly and base assembly
collectively define an interior compartment.
12. The baby gym-bouncer of the claim 11 further comprising a
zipper releaseably securing the seat and base assembly such that
the interior compartment is externally accessible.
13. A baby gym-bouncer, comprising: a base assembly having a
generally arch-shaped base frame; a seat assembly having a
generally arch-shaped seat frame; and a handle assembly connected
to the base frame and pivotally connected to the seat frame, the
handle assembly being configured such that the seat assembly may be
selectively oriented in one of a bouncer position and a gym
position; wherein the seat assembly is upwardly inclined relative
to the base assembly in the bouncer position, the seat assembly
being disposed in substantially abutting contact with the base
assembly in the gym position such that the baby gym-bouncer assumes
a substantially narrow cross-sectional profile.
14. The baby gym-bouncer of claim 13 wherein the seat frame is
configured to be resiliently deflectable downwardly relative to the
base assembly when in the bouncer position.
15. The baby gym-bouncer of claim 13 further comprising a toy bar
assembly having a generally arch-shaped toy bar frame pivotally
mounted to the seat frame above the seat assembly.
16. The baby gym-bouncer of claim 15 wherein the toy bar assembly
is configured to be disposed in substantially abutting contact with
the seat assembly.
17. The baby gym-bouncer of claim 15 wherein opposing ends of the
toy bar frame each include a toy bar hub pivotally engagable to a
toy bar mount such that the toy bar assembly may be selectively
angularly oriented relative to the seat assembly.
18. The baby gym-bouncer of claim 13 wherein the handle assembly
includes a pair of seat frame tracks formed on opposing ends of the
handle assembly, the seat frame tracks being configured to maintain
the seat assembly in the bouncer or gym positions.
19. The baby gym-bouncer of claim 18 wherein: each one of the seat
frame tracks includes an upper and a lower detent formed in the
handle assembly; the upper and lower detents of respective ones of
the seat frame track being configured to maintain the seat assembly
in the bouncer and gym position respectively.
20. The baby gym-bouncer of claim 13 wherein the seat assembly may
be releaseably secured to the base assembly at respective
perimeters thereof such that the seat and base assembly
collectively define an interior compartment.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claim priority to U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 60/501,762 entitled BABY GYM/BOUNCER filed
Sep. 10, 2003.
STATEMENT RE: FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH/DEVELOPMENT
[0002] (Not Applicable)
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The present invention relates generally to a seat for an
infant, and more particularly to a collapsible baby gym-bouncer for
use in calming and/or entertaining an infant with a collapsible toy
bar mounted upon a collapsible rocker frame that, when each is
folded to a collapsed position, causes the baby gym-bouncer to
assume an extremely narrow or thin cross-sectional profile which
enhances its transportability and storability.
[0004] There is currently known in the prior art infant seats that
provide the feature of rocking an infant supported therein in order
to calm the infant. Such infant seats, commonly referred to as
"baby bouncer" seats, typically comprise a base frame having an
inclined seat frame extending upwardly from the base frame. The
base frame is adapted so that it may be placed on a floor or a
table. The seat frame is typically connected to the base frame or
integrally formed therewith in a manner that allows the seat frame
to be resiliently deflectable downwardly such that the seat frame
may be oscillated or rocked up and down in order to sooth the
infant. A soft, fabric covering may be extended across the seat
base so that the infant may be comfortably supported in an inclined
position. Some baby bouncer seats are configured to be collapsible
wherein the seat frame and base frame may be folded against each
other in order to reduce the overall size of the baby bouncer seat
to enhance its compactability.
[0005] Although baby bouncer seats of the prior art are generally
effective in gently supporting and rocking infants in a seating
position, such baby bouncer seats suffer from several deficiencies
that detract from their overall utility. For example, although
generally collapsible to a reduced size, the arrangement of the
frame structures and the quantity and configuration of fittings
does not allow for the collapse of such prior art baby bouncer
seats into an extremely small size as is better suited for storage
and transportability. Furthermore, once collapsed, the frame
structure and fittings of such prior art baby bouncer seats may
protrude or project outwardly such that the baby bouncer seat is
susceptible to snagging or interference with nearby persons or
property when the baby bouncer seat is carried about or stored in
confined spaces.
[0006] The present invention addresses the above mentioned
deficiencies by providing a baby gym-bouncer that is specifically
sized and configured to be collapsible to an extremely thin
cross-sectional profile while providing the feature of oscillating
motion and the functional attribute of a toy bar to respectively
sooth and entertain an infant.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present invention provides a baby gym-bouncer comprised
of a base assembly, a seat assembly, a toy bar assembly and a
handle assembly. The base assembly and seat assembly are pivotally
connected to each other at the handle assembly. The toy bar
assembly is pivotally connected to the seat assembly on opposing
sides thereof.
[0008] The seat assembly may be placed into a bouncer position by
rotating the seat assembly away from the base assembly. In the
bouncer position, an infant may be rocked up and down to sooth the
infant. Alternatively, the seat assembly may be placed into a gym
position wherein the seat assembly is folded down into contact with
the base assembly. In such a position, the infant may be placed on
the seat assembly resting face-up or in a sitting position such
that the infant can interact with toys suspended from the toy bar
assembly.
[0009] When the toy bar assembly is fully collapsed onto the seat
assembly and the seat assembly is fully collapsed onto the base
assembly, the baby gym-bouncer assumes a generally rounded or
elliptical, planar-shape with a very thin cross-sectional profile.
Furthermore, in the fully collapsed position, the seat assembly may
be mechanically secured to the base assembly by means of a zipper
extending about perimeters of the seat assembly and base assembly
such that the seat assembly and the base assembly collectively
define an interior compartment. Various items such as the toys from
the toy bar may be inserted and carried within the interior
compartment.
[0010] The base assembly is comprised of an arch-shaped base frame
that is pivotally captured within the handle assembly. The seat
assembly is shaped complementary to the base assembly. The base
frame is encased by a base frame padding fabricated from
elastomeric material such as low-density foam to provide cushioning
against relatively harder material of the base frame. The base
frame padding is, in turn, encased in a base frame cover fabricated
from a soft, low-density material such as cotton. A base panel,
which extends across the base frame, is fabricated from a flexible
material. The seat assembly has a seat frame with a pair of flex
loops and seat frame end portions that extend through a pair of
seat frame tracks formed in opposite ends of the handle assembly.
The flex loops are configured to allow the seat assembly to be
resiliently deflectable downwardly toward the base assembly to
provide the bouncing or rocking feature.
[0011] The seat frame is constructed in a manner similar to the
construction of the base frame in that the seat frame is
substantially encased by a seat frame padding that, in turn, is
encased by a seat frame cover. A seat panel extends across the seat
frame and is fabricated from a soft, flexible material such as
cotton upon which the infant may sit or lie. Retaining straps are
included with the seat assembly to support the infant against
gravitational forces that would otherwise cause the infant to slide
downwardly along the seat panel when the seat assembly is
inclined.
[0012] The handle assembly includes an upper shell and a lower
shell with the seat frame tracks being formed in opposing ends of
the handle assembly. The seat frame end portions extend through the
seat frame tracks to allow the seat frame to be rotatably mounted
on an axle captured inside the handle assembly. Each one of the
seat frame tracks includes a lower detent and an upper detent that
allow for selective positioning of the seat frame in the gym
position or in the bouncer position. The handle assembly has a
handle opening to allow a user, such as a parent, to grasp and
carry the baby gym-bouncer.
[0013] The toy bar assembly is constructed in a manner similar to
the base assembly and seat assembly in that the toy bar assembly
has a toy bar frame encased by toy bar padding that is, in turn,
encased by a toy bar cover. The opposing ends of the toy bar frame
are pivotally connected to the seat frame. The toy bar assembly may
be positioned into a variety of angular positions relative to the
seat assembly and may be folded down against the seat assembly in
abutting contact with the seat assembly so as to increase the
overall compactness of the baby gym-bouncer.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] These, as well as other features of the present invention,
will become more apparent upon reference to the drawings
wherein:
[0015] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the baby gym-bouncer of the
present invention in its operative, fully uncollapsed state;
[0016] FIG. 2 is an partially exploded perspective view of the baby
gym-bouncer illustrating the interconnectivity of a base assembly,
a seat assembly, a toy bar assembly and a handle assembly as well
as other components that make up the baby gym-bouncer;
[0017] FIG. 2a is a perspective view of an upper shell of the
handle assembly illustrating a pair of seat tracks formed
therein;
[0018] FIG. 2b is a partial cross sectional view of the upper shell
and a lower shell taken along line 2b-2b of FIG. 2a and
illustrating the manner in which the upper and lower shells
collectively form the handle assembly and further illustrating a
pair of seat tracks formed in the upper and lower shells to allow
selective positioning of the seat frame assembly between a gym
position and a bouncer position;
[0019] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the baby gym-bouncer in a
partially collapsed state with a toy bar thereof being oriented in
its operative state and illustrating toys suspended from the toy
bar;
[0020] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating the baby
gym-bouncer in its fully collapsed state and further illustrating
the manner in which toys from the toy bar may be placed inside an
interior compartment of the fully collapsed baby gym-bouncer;
and
[0021] FIG. 5 is a side view illustrating the manner in which the
fully collapsed baby gym-bouncer may be carried using the handle
assembly.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0022] Referring now to the drawings wherein the showings are for
purposes of illustrating the present invention only, and not for
purposes of limiting the same, the subject invention is directed to
a baby gym-bouncer 10 that is configured to be collapsed to an
extremely narrow or thin cross-sectional profile which enhances its
transportability and storability. As best seen in FIG. 1 in its
fully uncollapsed state, the baby gym-bouncer 10 is comprised of a
base assembly 12, a seat assembly 30, a toy bar assembly 50 and a
handle assembly 70. The base assembly 12 is connected to the handle
assembly 70. The seat assembly 30 is pivotally connected to the
handle assembly 70 as is shown in FIG. 2 and as will be described
in greater detail below. The toy bar assembly 50 is pivotally
connected to the seat assembly 30, as may also be seen in FIG. 2
and as will also be described below.
[0023] In FIG. 1, the baby gym-bouncer 10 is illustrated with the
seat assembly 30 being upwardly angled or inclined relative to the
base assembly 12 such that the seat assembly 30 is positioned into
a bouncer position 86. When placed into the bouncer position 86, an
infant supported by the seat assembly 30 may be rocked up and down.
In FIG. 3, the baby gym-bouncer 10 is illustrated with the seat
assembly 30 being folded down into substantially abutting, coplanar
contact with the base assembly 12. In such a position, the seat
assembly 30 assumes a partially collapsed position or a gym
position 88. When the baby gym-bouncer 10 is placed into the gym
position 88, the infant may be placed on the seat assembly 30
resting face-up or in a sitting position. While the infant is so
positioned, the infant can interact with toys 66 suspended from the
toy bar assembly 50. The toys 66 may be releaseably engaged to the
toy bar assembly 50 through the use of toy straps 68. However, the
toys 66 may be connected to the toy bar assembly 50 using a variety
of alternative means. Although three toys 66 are illustrated, any
number of toys 66 can be provided.
[0024] The toy bar assembly 50 is shown in FIG. 1 as being
positioned into a substantially vertical orientation such that the
toys 66 are within comfortable reach of the infant. However, the
toy bar assembly 50 is configured to be selectively oriented into a
number of alternative angular positions relative to the seat
assembly 30 due to the configuration of the pivotal connection of
the toy bar assembly 50 to the seat assembly 30, as will be
described in greater detail below. Furthermore, the toy bar
assembly 50 is sized and configured to be complementary to the seat
assembly 30 such that the toy bar assembly 50 may be fully
collapsed or folded down onto the seat assembly 30. When the toy
bar assembly 50 is placed into the fully collapsed position and the
seat base assembly 12 is placed into the gym position 88 (i.e.,
fully collapsed relative to the base assembly 12), the baby
gym-bouncer 10 assumes a generally rounded, planar-shape with a
substantially narrow or thin cross-sectional profile.
[0025] In the fully collapsed position, the seat assembly 30 may be
mechanically secured to the base assembly 12 by means of a
fastening mechanism 102 such as a zipper 94 extending from opposing
ends of the handle assembly 70 around respective perimeters of the
seat assembly 30 and base assembly 12. Although other fastening
mechanisms may be utilized, the zipper 94 is preferably utilized to
hold the seat assembly 30 and the base assembly 12 together at
their respective perimeters such that they may collectively define
a substantially enclosed interior compartment 48. Various items
such as the toys 66 from the toy bar assembly 50 may be inserted
and carried within the interior compartment 48 in manner similar to
that shown in FIG. 4. By providing the fastening mechanism 102 such
as the zipper 94, the seat assembly 30 and the base assembly 12 may
be partially separated using a zipper pull 96 to provide access to
the interior compartment 48 for insertion or removal of various
items.
[0026] Referring still to FIGS. 1 and 2, the base assembly 12 is
comprised of a base frame 14 having a base frame main portion 16
and base frame end portions 18. As can be seen in FIG. 1, the base
frame main portion 16 is generally arch-shaped although it is
contemplated that the base frame main portion 16 may be configured
into a rectangular shape, a square shape or any number of
alternative shapes. The seat assembly 30 is preferably shaped
complementary to the base assembly 12 in order to facilitate the
securement of the seat assembly 30 thereto. Each of the base frame
end portions 18 extends inwardly from the base frame main portion
16 so as to be disposed in substantially coaxial alignment to each
other. The base frame end portions 18 may be spaced apart from each
other to define a gap therebetween, as is shown in FIG. 2. However,
the base frame 14 may be configured as a continuous loop comprising
an arch-shaped, base frame main portion 16 and a single, generally
straight, base frame end portion 18 that is adapted to be engagable
to the handle assembly 70.
[0027] Preferably, the base frame 14 is configured as a unitary
structure wherein the base frame main portion 16 and each of the
base frame end portions 18 define a continuous length of material.
Each one of the base frame end portions 18 is configured to
pivotally engage a complementary aperture or bore formed in the
handle assembly 70. The base frame 14 may have a generally rounded
or tubular cross-sectional shape and may be fabricated of any
material having sufficient strength and stiffness for supporting
loads imposed by the infant when rocked or bounced in the baby
gym-bouncer 10. In this regard, the base frame 14 may be fabricated
from a variety of materials including, but not limited to, steel,
aluminum, plastic and fiberglass or any combination thereof.
[0028] As shown in FIG. 2, the base frame 14 may be substantially
encased by a base frame padding 20 extending substantially
continuously about the base frame main portion 16. The base frame
padding 20 may be configured with a tubular cross-sectional shape
having an inner diameter that is sized to be complementary to an
outer diameter of the base frame 14. The base frame padding 20 is
preferably fabricated from an elastomeric material such as
low-density foam or rubber in order to provide a soft, cushioning
effect against the relatively harder material utilized to fabricate
the base frame 14.
[0029] In this manner, the base frame 14 prevents the infant from
directly contacting the base frame 14 which may result in injury.
The base frame padding 20 may, in turn, be encased in a base frame
cover 22 that extends substantially continuously along the base
frame padding 20. The base frame cover 22 is preferably fabricated
from a soft, low-density material such as nylon, cotton or flannel
although any other soft material may be utilized. Opposing ends of
the base frame padding 20 and the base frame cover 22 are
preferably configured to extend around the base frame 14 such that
the opposing ends terminate proximate to or in substantially
abutting contact with opposing sides of the handle assembly 70, as
can be seen in FIG. 1.
[0030] Included with the base assembly 12 is a base panel 24 that
extends across the base frame 14. The base panel 24 may be
fabricated from a soft, flexible material such as cotton or nylon.
However, the base panel 24 may be fabricated from any material
having sufficient strength and durability to contain objects placed
in the interior compartment 48 which is collectively defined by the
seat assembly 30 and the base assembly 12 when secured together by
the fastening mechanism 102. The base panel 24 and base frame cover
22 may be attached together by means of a seam extending
continuously along an interior perimeter of the base frame cover
22. However, the base panel 24 and the base frame cover 22 may be
formed as a unitary layer. In addition, the base frame cover 22 and
base panel 24 may be configured to be removable to facilitate
washing thereof.
[0031] Referring still to FIGS. 1 and 2, the baby gym-bouncer 10
further comprises the seat assembly 30 having a seat frame 32 with
a seat frame main portion 34 interconnected on each end by a flex
loop 40 to a pair of seat frame end portions 36. Similar to the
configuration of the base frame 14, the seat frame 32 is configured
as a unitary structure wherein the seat frame main portion 34, the
flex loops 40 and the seat frame end portions 36 define a
continuous length of material. As can be seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, the
seat frame main portion 34 is generally arch-shaped and is
preferably shaped and sized to be complementary to the base frame
main portion 16 in order to facilitate the securement of the seat
assembly 30 to the base assembly 12.
[0032] Each one of the seat frame end portions 36 has a generally
straight configuration. The seat frame end portions 36 extend into
the handle assembly 70 through a pair of seat frame tracks 82
formed in opposite ends of the handle assembly 70. Each one of the
seat frame end portions 36 terminates in an eyelet 38. As will be
explained below, each one of the eyelets 38 is configured to be
mounted on an axle 78. The axle 78 is captured within the handle
assembly 70. In this manner, the eyelets 38 may pivotally engage
the axle 78 allowing the seat assembly 30 to be pivotally moved
between the gym position 88 and the bouncer position 86.
[0033] Each one of the flex loops 40 is disposed between the seat
frame main portion 34 and one of the seat frame end portions 36 on
opposing sides of the seat assembly 30. The flex loops 40 are
configured to allow the seat assembly 30 to be resiliently
deflectable downwardly toward the base assembly 12. In this regard,
the flex loops 40 may cooperate with a generally flexible nature of
the seat frame 32 in order to provide a bouncing feature to the
baby gym-bouncer 10. As can be seen in FIG. 2, the flex loop 40
generally comprises an approximate 360 degree turn in the seat
frame 32 material. The seat frame 32 may have a generally rounded
or tubular cross-sectional shape and may be fabricated of any
material including, but not limited to, steel, aluminum, plastic
and fiberglass and may be configured with a solid or tubular
cross-sectional shape or any combination thereof. In addition, the
flex loops 40 may be configured in any number of alternative shapes
such that the seat assembly 30 is resiliently flexible relative to
the base assembly 12.
[0034] The seat frame 32 is constructed in a manner similar to the
construction of the base frame 14 in that the seat frame 32 is
substantially encased by a seat frame padding 42 that extends
substantially continuously about the seat frame main portion 34.
The seat frame padding covers the flex loops 40 and partially
extends over the seat frame end portions 36. Preferably, the seat
frame padding 42 terminates proximate to or in substantially
abutting contact with the handle assembly 70. The seat frame
padding 42 may have a tubular cross-sectional shape with an inner
diameter that is sized to be complementary to an outer diameter of
the seat frame 32. In addition, the seat frame padding 42 may be
slightly enlarged in the area of the flex loops 40 to accommodate
the relatively increased size of the seat frame 32 at the flex
loops 40. The seat frame padding 42 is preferably fabricated from
an elastomeric material such as foam or rubber in order to prevent
direct infant contact with the seat frame 32.
[0035] A seat frame cover 44 encases the seat frame padding 42 and
extends substantially continuously along a length of the seat frame
padding 42. The seat frame cover 44 is preferably fabricated from a
soft, low-density material such as nylon, cotton or flannel. A seat
panel 46 extends across the seat frame 32 and may be fabricated
from a soft, flexible material such as cotton or nylon. The seat
panel 46 provides a substantially planar padded surface upon which
the infant may sit or lie. The seat panel 46 may optionally include
a layer of padding to form a cushioned surface against which the
infant may comfortably bear. In a manner similar to that described
above for the base assembly 12, the seat panel 46 and seat frame
cover 44 may be secured together by means of a seam extending
continuously along an interior perimeter of the seat frame cover
44. However, the seat panel 46 and the seat frame cover 44 may be
formed as a unitary layer. Optionally, the seat frame cover 44 and
seat panel 46 may be configured to be removable to facilitate
washing thereof.
[0036] Retaining straps 98 may be included with the seat assembly
30. The retaining straps 98 may extend through a series of
apertures or slots 26 formed through the seat panel 46, as can be
seen in FIG. 1. The retaining straps 98 are configured for
supporting an infant against gravitational forces that are imposed
thereupon when the baby gym-bouncer 10 is inclined as occurs in the
bouncer position 86. The slots 26 are preferably positioned and
oriented in the seat panel 46 such that the retaining straps 98
extend around the infant in diaper-like fashion to hold the infant
in the mid-torso area. By configuring the slots 26 and the
retaining straps 98 in this manner, the infant is prevented from
sliding downwardly on the seat panel 46 when the seat assembly 30
is inclined.
[0037] The retaining straps 98 may be secured to the seat panel 46
by sewing or by simply passing the retaining straps 98 through the
slots 26 unsecured to the seat assembly 30. The retaining straps 98
may be fabricated of soft material such as cotton in order to
minimize pressure or abrasion against tender skin of the infant. A
layer of padding may be included with the retaining straps 98 to
provide increased cushioning. As is shown in FIG. 1, a pair of
buckles 100 may be included such that the retaining straps 98 may
be easily looped around legs of the infant. The retaining straps 98
may be alternatively connected and disconnected by simply mating
and de-mating complementary halves (i.e., male and female
connectors) of the buckles 100. When the baby gym-bouncer 10 is
placed in the gym position 88 shown in FIG. 3, the retaining straps
98 may be altogether removed from the seat assembly 30. In this
manner, the seat panel 46 provides a smooth surface that is free of
protuberances that may otherwise harm the infant.
[0038] Referring to FIGS. 2, 2a and 2b, the handle assembly 70
includes an upper shell 74 and a lower shell 72. A pair of seat
frame tracks 82 is formed in opposing ends of the handle assembly
70. As best seen in FIGS. 2a and 2b, the seat frame tracks 82 are
formed in mirror image to each other through the upper and lower
shells 74, 72. As was earlier mentioned, the seat frame end
portions 36 extend through the seat frame tracks 82 with the
eyelets 38 being rotatably and axially slidably mounted on the axle
78. Each one of the seat frame tracks 82 includes a lower detent 92
and an upper detent 90 connected by a seat frame track slot 84 that
is upwardly angled along a direction A from the lower detent 92 to
the upper detent, as shown in FIG. 2b. The seat frame track slots
84 are oriented relative to each other so as to be angled outwardly
away from each other in the direction A. The seat frame track 82 is
sized to allow the seat frame end portions 36 to freely travel from
the upper detent 90, through the seat frame track slot 84, and to
the lower detent 92, or vice versa, to allow for selective
positioning of the seat frame 32 in either the gym position 88 or
in the bouncer position 86.
[0039] The upper shell 74 may be secured to the lower shell 72 with
fasteners 62 such as screws so that the handle assembly 70 may be
easily assembled or disassembled. However, the upper shell 74 may
be secured to the lower shell 72 by alternative means such as by
complementary mating snaps that may be injection molded into each
of the upper and lower shells 74, 72. Such mating snaps may also
serve to align the upper and lower shells 74, 72 to each other
during assembly. As was earlier mentioned, the axle 78 is secured
inside the handle assembly 70. The eyelets 38 of the seat frame 32
are pivotally mounted upon the axle 78 which may be supported by a
complementary set of bosses formed or molded into the upper and
lower shells 74, 72 for supporting the axle 78 on opposing ends
thereof.
[0040] As shown in FIG. 2, a spring 80 is axially slidably mounted
on the axle 78. Captured between eyelets 38 of the seat frame end
portions 36, the spring 80 is sized and configured to axially bias
the seat frame end portions 36 away from each other such that the
seat frame 32 is maintained in either the upper detent 90 or the
lower detent 92 of respective ones of the seat frame track 82.
Moving the seat frame end portions 36 toward each other compresses
the spring 80. When each one of the seat frame end portions 36 is
placed in the upper detent 90 of respective ones of the seat frame
track 82, the seat assembly 30 is maintained in the bouncer
position 86, as is shown in FIG. 1. When each one of the seat frame
end portions 36 is placed in the lower detent 92 of respective ones
of the seat frame track 82, the seat assembly 30 is maintained in
the gym position 88, as is shown in FIG. 3.
[0041] Referring briefly to FIG. 2b, in order to move the seat
assembly 30 from the gym position 88 to the bouncer position 86,
the seat frame end portions 36 are initially moved axially toward
each other by externally applying pressure against the axially
outwardly biasing force of the spring 80 until the seat frame end
portions 36 are disengaged from the lower detents 92. The seat
frame end portions 36 are then moved upwardly through the seat
frame track slot 84 along a direction A, shown in FIG. 2b, by
angularly rotating the seat assembly 30 relative to the base
assembly 12.
[0042] Upon reaching an upper end of the seat frame track slot 84,
external (i.e., manually applied) pressure that holds the seat
frame end portions 36 together is released to allow the spring 80
to laterally extend the seat frame end portions 36 away from each
other until the seat frame end portions 36 engage upper detents 90
of respective ones of the seat frame track 82. Once the seat frame
end portions 36 are fully engaged in the upper detents 90, the
biasing force of the spring 80 acts to maintain the seat frame 32
in the upper detent 90 such that the seat assembly 30 is held in
the bouncer position 86. Repositioning the seat assembly 30 from
the bouncer position 86 back to the gym position 88 may be achieved
by reversing the above-described procedure.
[0043] Referring back to FIG. 2, formed through the upper and lower
shells 74, 72 of the handle assembly 70 is a handle opening 76
sized and configured to allow a user, such as a parent, to grasp
and carry the baby gym-bouncer 10. The handle opening 76 may be
ergonomically shaped so as to be physiologically compatible with a
human hand to allow the baby gym-bouncer 10 to be carried with a
secure grip. The handle carrier may preferably be fabricated by
injection molding of plastic such as polyethylene plastic although
it is recognized herein that there are numerous materials and
processes that may be utilized to fabricate the handle assembly
70.
[0044] The handle assembly 70 preferably has an outer surface that
is generally contoured to blend with outer perimeters and overall
thicknesses of the baby gym-bouncer 10 when folded down into the
fully collapsed position. By contouring the handle assembly 70 in
such a manner, the overall aesthetics of the baby gym-bouncer 10
may be improved. In addition, projections may be eliminated that
may otherwise catch on objects. Regardless of its configuration, it
is contemplated that the outer surface of the handle assembly 70
may be contoured to have any number of alternative shapes.
[0045] Included with the baby gym-bouncer 10 is the toy bar
assembly 50 shown in FIGS. 1-3. Constructed in a manner similar to
that described above for the base assembly 12 and seat assembly 30,
the toy bar assembly 50 includes a toy bar frame 52 having a
generally arch-shaped configuration. The toy bar frame 52 is
preferably configured as a unitary structure of tubular
cross-section and having opposing ends. The toy bar frame 52 is
encased by toy bar padding 54 in a manner similar to that described
above for the seat frame 32 and the base frame 14. The toy bar
padding 54 is preferably comprised of soft, closed cell foam or
rubber and extends along a length of the toy bar frame 52, as can
be seen in FIG. 3. The toy bar padding 54 prevents injury to the
infant that may be caused by direct contact with the toy bar frame
52. Secured to the toy bar assembly 50 at an approximate midpoint
thereof is a toy bar strap 64, as shown in FIG. 2. The toy bar
strap 64 may include a snap, hook and loop fastener material (e.g.,
Velcro), or other alternative fastening means adapted to secure the
toy bar assembly 50 against the seat assembly 30 when the toy bar
assembly 50 is folded down thereagainst, as shown in FIGS. 4 and
5.
[0046] The opposing ends of the toy bar frame 52 are pivotally
connected to the seat frame 32 on opposing sides thereof using a
pair of toy bar hubs 60. Each one of the toy bar hubs 60 includes a
socket that is sized and configured to receive one of opposing ends
of the toy bar frame 52. The toy bar hub 60 is mated to a
complementary toy bar mount 58 that is configured to connect the
toy bar hub 60 to the seat frame 32. As is shown in FIG. 2, the toy
bar mount 58 may comprise a split sleeve member that may be
integrally formed with the toy bar mount 58. Preferably hinged on a
side as shown in FIG. 2, the split sleeve member is sized and
configured to be complementary to the seat frame 32 such that the
split sleeve member may be tightly secured to the seat frame 32
using mechanical fasteners, snaps or adhesive. However, the toy bar
assembly 50 may be secured to the seat frame 32 using any suitable
means. Openings may be provided in the seat frame padding 42 and
the seat frame cover 44 such that the toy bar mounts 58 may
protrude therefrom.
[0047] The toy bar hub 60 may be secured to the toy bar mount 58
using a mechanical fastener 62 such as a screw as is shown in FIG.
2. Frictional engagement of interior surfaces of the toy bar hub 60
with mating interior surfaces of the toy bar mount 58 may be
achieved by tightening the screw to create slight relative axial
movement therebetween. In this manner, the toy bar assembly 50 may
be positioned into a variety of angular positions relative to the
seat assembly 30 by first loosening the screw, rotating the toy bar
assembly 50 to a desired angular orientation, then retightening the
screw. Alternatively, the interior surface of each of the toy bar
hub 60 and mating toy bar mount 58 may include complementary
engaging surface features formed therein such as complementary
tongue and groove members configured to positively maintain a
particular angular orientation of the toy bar assembly 50 relative
to the seat assembly 30.
[0048] As will be recognized, there are a variety of means that may
be included in the baby gym-bouncer 10 that will provide the
feature of selective angular adjustment of the toy bar assembly 50
relative to the seat assembly 30. Importantly, the toy bar assembly
50 is sized and configured to be folded down against the seat
assembly 30 in substantially abutting contact thereagainst.
Additionally, the toy bar assembly 50 is sized to conform to or
within an outer perimeter of the seat assembly 30 and base assembly
12 when the baby gym-bouncer 10 is folded into the fully collapsed
position as shown in FIG. 5. In this manner, protrusion of the toy
bar assembly 50 from the outer perimeter is eliminated so as to
increase the overall compactness of the baby gym-bouncer 10 to
enhance the storability of the baby gym-bouncer 10.
[0049] Additional modifications and improvements of the present
invention may also be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the
art. Thus, the particular combination of parts described and
illustrated herein is intended to represent only certain
embodiments of the present invention, and is not intended to serve
as limitations of alternative devices within the spirit and scope
of the invention.
* * * * *