U.S. patent application number 12/198804 was filed with the patent office on 2010-03-04 for infant sling.
Invention is credited to Michael A. Parness.
Application Number | 20100051658 12/198804 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41723813 |
Filed Date | 2010-03-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100051658 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Parness; Michael A. |
March 4, 2010 |
INFANT SLING
Abstract
The present invention is directed to an adjustable sling for the
carrying and transport of an infant, with features that impart
improved safety, comfort and support for the infant. The adjustable
sling has a sling body with an interior compartment for carrying
the infant, and also has an adjustable shoulder strap that is
extensible about a wearer's shoulder, with first and second
opposing ends that are attached to the sling body. An adjustable
lumbar belt is attached to the sling body and extensible about the
wearer. In one embodiment, the sling has a retention flap that is
attached to the sling body and retains the infant being carried by
the sling to enhance the safety and security of the sling. In
another embodiment, the sling has at least one support insert to
support at least one of the infant's head and neck while the infant
is carried in the interior compartment.
Inventors: |
Parness; Michael A.; (San
Diego, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
STETINA BRUNDA GARRED & BRUCKER
75 ENTERPRISE, SUITE 250
ALISO VIEJO
CA
92656
US
|
Family ID: |
41723813 |
Appl. No.: |
12/198804 |
Filed: |
August 26, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
224/158 ;
224/625 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47D 13/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
224/158 ;
224/625 |
International
Class: |
A47D 13/02 20060101
A47D013/02 |
Claims
1. An adjustable sling for carrying an infant, the sling
comprising: (a) a sling body defining an interior compartment for
carrying the infant; (b) a retention flap attached to the sling
body to retain the infant being carried in the compartment; (c) an
adjustable shoulder strap extensible about a wearer's shoulder and
comprising first and second opposing ends attached to the sling
body; and (d) an adjustable lumbar belt attached to the sling body
and extensible about the wearer.
2. The adjustable sling of claim 1, wherein the sling body
comprises an elongate bottom panel and surrounding side panels that
define the interior compartment therebetween, and wherein the
retention flap is attached to the bottom panel.
3. The adjustable sling of claim 1, wherein the retention flap
comprises a generally T-shaped flap having: an elongate lower
segment configured to pass between the legs of an infant being
carried in the sling, the elongate lower segment comprising a
proximal end attached to the sling body and a distal end; and a
transverse band segment at the distal end of the elongate lower
segment that is configured to extend transversely across at least a
portion of the infant's body, the transverse band segment being
attachable to the sling body to retain the infant in the
compartment.
4. The adjustable sling of claim 3, wherein the transverse band
segment comprises a retention belt sleeve, and wherein the sling
further comprises: an adjustable retention belt configured to
extend through the retention belt sleeve, the adjustable retention
belt having first and second opposing ends configured to be
attachable to the sling body.
5. The adjustable sling of claim 1 wherein the sling body comprises
at least one support insert configured to provide support to at
least one of the infant's head and neck while being carried in the
interior compartment.
6. The adjustable sling of claim 5 wherein the sling body comprises
a plurality of support inserts including: a neck support bolster
configured to maintain a position of the infant's neck in relation
to the head of the infant; a head support insert configured to at
least partially conform to a periphery of the infant's head to
maintain a position thereof; and body support bolsters configured
to support opposing sides of the infant's body.
7. The adjustable sling of claim 1 wherein the sling body comprises
a pair of belt loops on opposing exterior surfaces thereof, the
belt loops each being configured to pass the lumbar belt
therethrough to connect the lumbar belt to the sling body.
8. An adjustable sling for carrying an infant, the sling
comprising: (a) a sling body defining an interior compartment for
carrying the infant, the sling body comprising at least one support
insert configured to support at least one of the infant's head and
neck while the infant is carried in the interior compartment; (b)
an adjustable shoulder strap extensible about a wearer's shoulder
and comprising first and second opposing ends attached to the sling
body; and (c) an adjustable lumbar belt attached to the sling body
and extensible about the wearer.
9. The adjustable sling of claim 8 wherein the support insert
comprises a neck support bolster configured to maintain a position
of the infant's neck in relation to the head of the infant.
10. The adjustable sling of claim 9 wherein the neck support
bolster is configured to maintain the infant's head in a
substantially neutral position relative to the infant's spine.
11. The adjustable sling of claim 9 wherein the neck support
bolster is anatomically shaped and positioned to allow the infant's
shoulder blades rest thereon while being carried in the interior
compartment.
12. The adjustable sling of claim 9 wherein sling body comprises an
elongate bottom panel having a head support region configured to
support the infant's head and a body support region to support the
infant's body, wherein the neck support bolster is positioned
adjacent the head support region on the elongate bottom panel.
13. The adjustable sling of claim 12 wherein a top surface of the
neck support bolster is elevated above a surface upon which the
infant's head rests in the head support region of the elongate
bottom panel.
14. The adjustable sling of claim 12 wherein the neck support
bolster comprises an at least semi-cylindrically shaped cushion
that extends laterally across the elongate bottom panel between
first and second opposing sides thereof.
15. The adjustable sling of claim 9, further comprising a head
support insert that at least partially conforms to a periphery of
the infant's head to maintain a position thereof.
16. The adjustable sling of claim 15 wherein the head support
insert comprises a U-shaped body of cushioning material positioned
at an upper end of the elongate bottom panel.
17. The adjustable sling of claim 15, further comprising body
support bolsters disposed on opposing sides of the elongate bottom
panel in the body support region.
18. The adjustable sling of claim 17, wherein at least one of the
head support insert and body support bolster are detachable from
the sling body.
19. The adjustable sling according to claim 8 wherein the support
insert comprises a layer of cushioning material having a rounded
periphery, the support insert defining a central cutout therein
that comprises at least one of an ovate, circular, and elliptical
shape.
20. The adjustable sling according to claim 8 further comprising a
retention flap attached to the sling body to retain the infant
being carried in said compartment.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Not Applicable.
STATEMENT RE: FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH/DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not Applicable
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] 1. Technical Field
[0004] The present invention relates generally to sling carriers
adapted to be worn by an adult to support and carry an infant or
other young child. More particularly, the present invention is
directed to a sling with improved features that allow the sling
wearer to more securely hold the infant in the sling, and that
improve the support of the infant's head and neck as well as the
infant's body while being carried in the sling.
[0005] 2. Related Art
[0006] Baby slings are well known by parents and other persons
involved in child care as being suitable carriers for the transport
of children. Indeed, various different types of baby slings are
currently available from manufacturers of infant products, such as
for example the Jelly Bean.TM. Cargo Sling from Munchkin. Baby
slings offer many advantages over other types of child carriers due
to their typical simplicity of use, as well as other features. For
example, baby slings typically hold the infant in a nestled
position near the body of the adult sling wearer, which is often
comforting to the child and allows easy monitoring and observation
of the infant on the part of the adult wearer. Baby slings also
typically allow for easy interaction between the adult wearing the
sling and the infant being carried therein, such as for example to
feed, soothe or entertain the infant. However, though currently
known and available baby slings achieve their primary objective of
carrying an infant, they nonetheless posses certain deficiencies
that detract from their overall utility.
[0007] One of the deficiencies of prior art baby slings is the lack
of any restraint or device to keep the infant securely held within
the sling. In particular, slings fabricated from one or more layers
of pliable fabric often rely on the infant's own weight to keep the
fabric pulled snugly about the infant and restrain the infant
therein. Such slings typically do not have any other means to
restrain the infant, and thus leave the infant vulnerable to
accidental falls, especially if the adult wearer bends or stoops
while wearing the sling. Many conventional slings are even sold
with accompanying warnings urging the wearer to avoid bending over
or stooping while the infant is held in the sling. Even for those
slings designed to minimize the likelihood of accident, the lack of
any means of restraint may nonetheless be a source of unnecessary
worry and anxiety to the sling wearer.
[0008] Yet another one of the deficiencies of the prior art baby
slings is the insufficiency or lack of support for the body and
head of the infant being carrier therein. The prior art baby slings
are typically fabricated from one or more layers of pliable fabric
that individually or collectively define a pocket or compartment
adapted to accommodate the infant. However, the pliability of the
fabric used to fabricate the sling provides virtually no support
for the body and head of the infant. This lack of support, coupled
with the typical attachment of the support strap of the sling to
opposing longitudinal ends thereof, thus often results in the
infant assuming an uncomfortable contour or curved position within
the sling. In particular, as the head of an infant is typically
relatively large and heavy compared to the infant's body, the
infant may have difficulty in keeping their chin comfortably raised
up off of their chest when laid in a supine or semi-supine position
in the sling. Not only is this lack of support uncomfortable for
the infant, but it also raises concerns with regard to possibly
serious obstruction of the infant's breathing passageways. For
example, as described in the article entitled "Cardiorespiratory
Stability of Premature and Term Infants Carried in Infant Slings"
to Stening et al, in Pediatrics Vol. 110, No. 5, November 2002,
which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety, a
significant decrease of oxygen saturation was observed in infants
carried in a conventional sling as compared to those placed in a
pram. While the decrease was not deemed to be of clinical concern,
the study nonetheless shows a trend that correlates sling carrying
of infants with increased obstruction of breathing.
[0009] Accordingly, there remains a need in the art for slings that
are capable of securely restraining an infant therein to reduce the
likelihood of accidental falls and/or injury to an infant held in
the slings. There is also a need for slings adapted for carrying an
infant that provide improved support to the infant's head and/or
neck region.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The present invention specifically addresses and alleviates
the above-identified deficiencies in the art. In this regard, the
present invention is directed to an adjustable sling for carrying
an infant. In one embodiment, the adjustable sling has a sling body
that defines an interior compartment for carrying the infant, and
an adjustable shoulder strap extensible about a wearer's shoulder,
with first and second opposing ends of the strap being attached to
the sling body. The sling also has an adjustable lumbar belt that
attaches to the sling body and is extensible about the wearer. To
enhance the security and safety of an infant being held in the
interior compartment, the sling has a retention flap that is
attached to the sling body and that is capable of securing and
retaining the infant being carried in the compartment.
[0011] In yet another embodiment, the adjustable sling has a sling
body that defines an interior compartment for carrying the infant
and has at least one support insert therein. The support insert is
configured to support at least one of the infant's head and neck
while the infant is being carried in the interior compartment of
the sling. The adjustable sling may also include an adjustable
shoulder strap extensible about a wearer's shoulder, with first and
second opposing ends of the strap being attached to the sling body.
Further, the adjustable sling may include an adjustable lumbar belt
that attaches to the sling body and is extensible about the
wearer.
[0012] The present invention is best understood by reference to the
following detailed description when read in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] These as well as other features of the present invention
will become more apparent upon reference to the drawings
wherein:
[0014] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of an
adjustable infant sling according to the invention, depicting the
sling as worn by an adult wearer holding an infant therein;
[0015] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of an
adjustable infant sling according to the invention, depicting a
portion of the interior compartment of the sling;
[0016] FIG. 3 is a top plan view of an embodiment of an adjustable
infant sling according to the invention;
[0017] FIG. 4 is a side plan view of an embodiment of an adjustable
infant sling according to the invention; and
[0018] FIG. 5 is a sectional top view of an embodiment of a bottom
panel for an adjustable infant sling according to the invention,
depicting head and neck support inserts;
[0019] FIG. 6 is a sectional side view of the bottom panel of FIG.
5;
[0020] FIG. 7 is a sectional bottom view of the bottom panel of
FIG. 5; and
[0021] FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of
an adjustable infant sling according to the invention, depicting a
portion of the interior compartment of the sling.
[0022] Common reference numerals are used throughout the drawings
and detailed description to indicate like elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0023] The detailed description set forth below is intended as a
description of the presently preferred embodiment of the invention,
and is not intended to represent the only form in which the present
invention may be constructed or utilized. The description sets
forth the functions and sequences of steps for constructing and
operating the invention. It is to be understood, however, that the
same or equivalent functions and sequences may be accomplished by
different embodiments and that they are also intended to be
encompassed within the scope of the invention.
[0024] An adjustable sling 10 for carrying an infant 12 has been
developed that provides substantial improvements over prior slings
by providing secure restraint of the infant 12 being held therein,
as well as improved support of the infant's head and neck regions.
In one embodiment, the adjustable sling 10 comprises a specially
devised retention flap 14 that comfortably and securely retains the
infant 12 within the sling 10. In another embodiment, the
adjustable sling 10 comprises a unique head and/or neck support
insert 16 that provides improved comfort to the infant 12 being
held in the sling 10. An improved adjustable sling 10 according to
the invention may have either of these improved features
individually, and may also comprise a combination of the features
to improve the safety and comfort of the sling 10 in the transport
and carrying of an infant 12.
[0025] It should be understood that the term "infant" as referred
to herein is intended to be inclusive of all children and babies
that may be suitably carried by the sling, and thus includes very
young infants as well as older babies and children. In particular,
the sling may be suitable for carrying very young infants and
children that are 35 lbs or less, and especially those that are 20
lbs or less. Also, while it is envisioned that a likely wearer of
the adjustable sling would be the child's parent, the wearer may
also be another adult or teenager of a suitable age involved in the
care of the child, such as a day care provider, sibling,
grandparent and the like.
[0026] FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of an improved sling 10 according
to the invention. The adjustable sling 10 generally comprises a
sling body 18 that defines an interior compartment 20 for carrying
the infant 12. An adjustable shoulder strap 22 is attachable to the
sling body 18 and is extensible about the shoulder and/or back of a
wearer 24 to support the sling body 18 on the wearer 24. The
adjustable sling 10 can further comprise an adjustable lumbar belt
26 that is attachable to the sling body 18 to provide further
support of the sling 10 on the body of the wearer 24. The sling 10
may thus be used to carry and transport an infant 12 by placing the
shoulder strap 22 about the wearer's shoulders such that the strap
22 passes in a generally diagonal manner from the wearer's front
and across the wearer's back, attaching the lumbar belt 26 to the
sling 10 and extending the belt 26 about the wearer's waist, hips
and/or torso region, and carefully placing the infant 12 within the
interior compartment 20 of the sling body 18.
[0027] The sling body 18 can comprise a variety of different sizes,
shapes and configurations adapted to provide an interior
compartment 20 suitable for holding an infant 12 therein. In the
version depicted in FIG. 1, the sling body 18 comprises an elongate
bottom panel 28 and surrounding side panels 30a, 30b that together
cooperate to define the interior compartment 20 therebetween. The
elongate bottom panel 28 and surrounding side panels 30a, 30b can
comprise separate segments of material or segments of material
layers, such as for example one or more first segments 55 of
material or material layers forming the bottom panel 28, and one or
more second segments 53 of material or material layers disposed
circumferentially about the bottom panel to form the side panels
30a, 30b. Alternatively the bottom and side panels 28, 30a, 30b can
be formed from a single segment of material or layered material
segments. The segments of material and/or material layers can be
sewn or otherwise attached to each other to form the sling body 18.
The segments of material that make up the sling body 18 are
preferably fabricated from a soft, pliable fabric material, which
can comprise one or more of a synthetic or natural material. The
sling body 18 can also comprise a mesh material to provide
breathability and air circulation within the interior compartment
20 to keep the infant 12 cool and comfortable. It should be
understood that sling body 18 can furthermore comprise other
suitable shapes, sizes and configurations other than those
specifically shown and described herein.
[0028] Referring again to FIG. 1 as well as FIGS. 2-4, it can be
seen that the sling 10 comprises the retention flap 14 that is
configured to securely hold and retain the infant 12 within the
sling body 18. In the version shown, the retention flap 14 is
generally T-shaped, with an elongate lower segment 32 that attaches
to the sling body 18 and passes between the infant's legs, and a
transverse band segment 34 that extends transversely across the
infant's body to support and restrain the infant 12. In this manner
the retention flap 14 forms a sort of swaddling seat, similar to an
onesie bottom or baby diaper, to support and retain the infant
within the compartment 20. The elongate lower segment 32 of the
retention flap 14 comprises a proximal end 36a configured to attach
to the sling body 18, such as to the elongate bottom panel 28, and
a free distal end 36b. The proximal end 36a of the retention flap
14 can be configured to attach to the elongate bottom panel 28 by
sewing or otherwise attaching thereto, such as with snaps, hook and
loop-type fasteners, buttons or other fasteners. The transverse
band segment 34 is disposed at the distal end 36b of the elongate
lower segment 32 and is configured to cross over the infant's body,
such as across the infant's stomach and/or torso, and attach to the
sling body 18. The retention flap 14 is preferably fabricated from
one or more soft, pliable fabric materials, which can comprise one
or more of a synthetic or natural material. In one version, one of
more portions of the retention flap 14 comprise padded materials,
to increase the infant's comfort while being retained therein.
[0029] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-4, the retention flap 14
comprises a retention belt sleeve 38 that is sized and configured
to pass a retention belt 40 therethrough for restraining the infant
12 within the interior compartment 20. In this version, the
retention belt sleeve 38 is located at the distal end 36b of the
elongate lower segment 32, and forms a portion of the transverse
band segment 34. The retention belt sleeve 38 defines a passage 42
therein that passes laterally across the transverse band segment 34
and is shaped and sized to accommodate the passage of the belt 40
therethrough. The retention belt 40 configured to pass through the
retention belt sleeve 38 comprises at least one adjustable strap
44, with the belt 40 having first and second opposing ends 46a, 46b
that are configured to attach to the sling body 18, such as at
opposing edges 48a, 48b of the elongate bottom panel 28, as shown
for example in FIG. 3. The retention belt 40 further comprises at
least one releasable mating connector 50 configured to connect
segments of the belt strap 44 together, or alternatively to connect
a single segment of strap 44 directly to the sling body 18. The
retention belt sleeve 38 that forms a part of the transverse band
segment 34 thus promotes the infant's comfort by providing a layer
of material, preferably padded, between the infant and retention
belt 40 to gently and securely retain the infant.
[0030] In one version, at least a portion of the retention belt 40
is attached to the retention flap 14 itself to position and
stabilize the belt 40, for example by sewing or otherwise attaching
a portion of the retention belt 40 thereto. For example, the
retention belt 40 can comprise first and second belt strap segments
44a, 44b, with a first belt strap segment 44a extending from a
first opposing edge 48a of the elongate bottom panel 28 towards the
retention flap 14, and the second belt strap segment 44b extending
from a second opposing edge 48a of the elongate bottom panel 28
towards the retention flap 14, as shown for example in FIG. 3. A
third belt strap segment 44c is attached to and passes through the
retention belt sleeve 38 in the retention flap 14. First and second
adjustable mating connectors 50a, 50b connect the attached third
belt strap segment 44c to the first and second belt strap segments
44a, 44b, respectively. By attaching the strap segment 44c to the
interior of the sleeve 38, the relative position of the belt 40
within the sleeve 38 can be maintained, while also allowing for
adjustment of the belt 40 about the infant 12 via the adjustable
mating connectors 50a, 50b, for example to tighten or loosen the
belt 40 about the infant 12.
[0031] While specific embodiments of the retention belt 40 and
retention flap 14 are being described herein for the purposes of
illustrating aspects of the invention, it should be understood that
the retention flap 14 and belt 14 are not limited to these specific
embodiment, and other configurations may also be devised. For
example, the retention flap 14 may itself form a central section of
the belt 40, with first and second belt strap segments 44a, 44b
being attached at opposing sides thereof and extending to connect
to the sling body 18. Also, the retention belt segments 44a, 44b
and/or retention flap 14 may be connected to each other via
connectors other than those specifically shown, such as for example
via snaps, zippers, hook and loop closures such as Velcro.TM.,
and/or buttons. Embodiments in which the retention flap 14 is
directly attached to the sling body 18 without the use of a
retention belt 40, are also considered to be encompassed by the
present invention. For example, in one embodiment, the retention
flap 14 can comprise attachment mechanisms disposed at opposing
lateral ends of the transverse band segment 34 that are capable of
attaching the ends of the retention flap 14 to the sling body
18.
[0032] Accordingly, in one version, a method of employing the sling
10 for use in carrying and/or transporting an infant 12 involves
laying the infant 12 on his/her back within the interior
compartment 20 of the sling 10. The infant is placed in a supine or
semi-supine position on the elongate bottom panel 28, with the
infant's bottom positioned above the point of attachment of the
retention flap 14 at the proximal end 36a of the elongate lower
segment 32. The retention flap 14 is folded back over the infant's
body, with the elongate lower segment 32 passing between the
infant's legs and the transverse band segment 34 of the retention
flap 14 crossing over the body of the infant 12, such as across the
infant's stomach and/or torso. At least a portion of the retention
belt 40 is extended through the sleeve 38 of the transverse band
segment 34, and the belt 40 is secured via at least one releasable
mating connector 50. The retention flap 14 can thus be used to
gently and securely retain the infant in the interior compartment
20 of the sling body 18, thereby reducing the likelihood of
accident or injury to the infant 12 while using the sling 10.
[0033] FIGS. 2 and 5-7 show yet another embodiment of the
adjustable sling 10, wherein the sling 10 is configured to provide
improved support to at least one of the infant's head 13 and neck
11 while the infant 12 is carried therein, as well as optionally to
other portions of the infant's body. In this embodiment, the sling
body 18 comprises at least one, and even a plurality of support
inserts 16 that are shaped, sized and configured to improve the
support of the infant. The improved support imparted by the support
inserts 16 enhances the infant's comfort while being carried in the
sling, and may also advantageously improve the positioning and
alignment of the infant's breathing passages to ensure adequate
oxygen saturation and breathing ability of the infant 12.
[0034] In one version, the support insert 16 comprises a neck
support bolster 15 that is configured to maintain a position of the
infant's neck 11 in relation to the head 13 of the infant 12, as
shown for example in FIGS. 2 and 5-6. Specifically, the neck
support bolster 15 is configured to maintain the infant's head 13
in a substantially neutral and/or mid-line position relative to the
infant's spine when the infant 12 is in one or more of a supine or
semi-supine position. By "neutral" or "mid-line" position it is
meant that the infant's head 13 is positioned relative to the spine
such that the head 13 is not bending excessively towards or away
the spine, such as excessively forward, backward, or even sideways
with respect to the spine, in a position that could otherwise be
unacceptably uncomfortable to the infant 12 or restrict the
infant's breathing. By maintaining the head and/or neck in such a
neutral position, the infant's breathing passageways are kept
unobstructed such that the infant 12 is able to breathe easier and
maintain higher oxygen levels. In particular, the neck support
bolster 15 is configured to lift a portion of the infant's neck 11
and/or body 17 with respect to the infant's head 13 such that the
infant's chin is kept from excessively bending towards and even
into the infant's chest, thereby maintaining proper air passageway
alignment. The neck support bolster 15 may preferably be formed of
a cushioning foam material, although other padding or cushioning
materials can also be used.
[0035] In the version shown in FIGS. 2 and 5-6, the neck support
bolster 15 is anatomically shaped and positioned within the sling
body 18 to allow the infant's scapulae, or shoulder blades, to rest
thereon, thereby lifting the infant's upper back and neck regions
to maintain the infant's head 13 and neck 11 in proper alignment.
In this version, the elongate bottom panel 28 can be understood to
comprise a head support region 54a configured to support the
infant's head 13, and a body support region 54b to support the
infant's body 17, with the neck support bolster 15 being disposed
adjacent the head support region 54a at a location along the
longitudinal axis of the elongate bottom panel 28 that allows for
the lifting and support of the infant's upper back/shoulders and/or
neck, such as between the head support region 54a and body support
region 54b. The neck support bolster 15 further comprises a top
surface 19 that is elevated above a surface 21 upon which the
infant's head 13 rests in the head support region 54a of the
elongate bottom panel 27, thereby lifting the infant's upper back
and/or neck with respect to the infant's head 13. For example, the
top surface 19 of the neck support bolster 15 can be at least about
0.5 inches higher than the head rest surface 21, such as from about
0.5 to about 1.0 inches higher, and even about 0.75 inches higher
than the head rest surface 21. In the embodiment as shown in FIGS.
5-6, the neck support bolster 15 comprises a raised cushion having
an at least semi-cylindrical shape that extends laterally across at
least a portion of the elongate bottom panel 28 between first and
second opposing sides 48a, 48b thereof.
[0036] The adjustable sling 10 can further comprise additional
support inserts 16 disposed within the interior compartment 20 of
the sling body 18 that are configured to support and cushion the
infant's head 13 and/or neck 11 as well as to support and properly
position the rest of the infant's body 17. In one embodiment, an
additional support insert 16 comprises a head support insert 25
disposed towards an upper end 64a of the sling body 18 that at
least partially conforms to a periphery of the infant's head 13 to
maintain a position thereof. The head support insert 25 thus serves
to promote proper alignment of the infant's head 13 with the rest
of the infant's body 17, such as a substantially neutral alignment
of the infant's head and spine, by inhibiting excessive lateral
bending or twisting of the infant's neck 11. In the version shown
in FIGS. 2 and 5-6, the head support insert 25 comprises a
generally U-shaped body of cushioning material positioned at the
upper end 64a of the elongate bottom panel 28, such as for example
lining at least a portion of the side panels 30a, 30b at the upper
end 64a of the sling body 18. The head support insert 25 thus forms
supporting walls about the infant's head 13, with the interior
surface 29 of the head support insert 25 being contoured to at
least partially conform to the infant's head 13 while also allowing
the infant a comfortable amount of head movement within the sling
body 18. The head support insert 25 may preferably be formed of a
cushioning foam material, although other padding or cushioning
materials can also be used.
[0037] In yet another version, the additional support inserts 16
provided in the infant sling 10 comprise one or more body support
bolsters 33a, 33b that are configured to support and position
opposing sides of the infant's body 17. In the embodiment shown in
FIGS. 2 and 5-6, the body support bolsters 33a, 33b comprise
arcuate bodies of cushioning material disposed on opposing sides of
the elongate bottom panel 28 in the body support region 54b. The
body support bolsters 33a, 33b thus inhibit excessive lateral
slipping of the infant 12 within the interior compartment 20 of the
sling body 18, and also promote a proper and comfortable alignment
of the infant's body 17 therein. The body support bolsters 33a, 33b
also cooperate with the retention flap 14 to properly position the
infant 12 within the sling body 18 for optimum comfort and support.
Similarly to the head support insert 25, the body support bolsters
33a, 33b may be formed of a cushioning foam material, or
alternatively of another padding or cushioning material.
[0038] In yet another embodiment of a support insert 16 as shown in
FIG. 8, the infant sling 10 comprises at least one support insert
16 that defines a central cutout 52 therein to provides support for
the infant's head 13 while being carried in the interior
compartment 20. The support insert 16 is disposed within the
interior compartment 20 of the sling body 18, such as within, on
top of, or otherwise about the elongate bottom panel 28. For
example, the support insert 16 can be disposed about the head
support region 54a of the elongate bottom panel 28, such as within
or overlying the bottom panel 28 in the head support region 54a.
The support insert 16 provides improved comfort and support to the
infant 12 being carried within the sling 10 by stabilizing the
infant's head 13 in a comfortable resting position, thereby also
reducing pressure on the infant's neck 11. As shown in FIG. 8, the
support insert 16 according to this embodiment comprises a central
cutout 52 that is sized and shaped to accommodate at least a
portion of the infant's head. For example, the central cutout 52 of
the support insert 16 can comprise at least one of an ovate,
circulate and elliptical shape sized to accommodate the infant's
head therein. The support insert 16 preferably comprises a layer of
cushioning material having the central cutout 52 therein, such as
for example at least one of foam material, gel cushioning material,
down and other padded material. The support insert 16 may also be
shaped to be complementary to the sling body 18, for example by
comprising a rounded periphery 56.
[0039] To further increase the comfort and support of an infant 12
being carried and/or transported in the adjustable sling 10, the
sling 10 may further comprise at least one cushioning insert 60
extending along at least a portion of the sling body 18, as shown
for example in FIGS. 2 and 8. For example, the cushioning insert 60
may extend along at least a portion of the body support region 54b
of the elongate bottom panel 28, and may at least partially conform
to the shape of the elongate bottom panel 28. The cushioning insert
60 can comprise at least one of foam, gel, down and other padded
material. While the cushioning insert 60 can comprise the same
cushioning material as the support insert 16, it may also be
preferable in some versions to provide a relatively more rigid
and/or stiff material for the support insert 16, such as a higher
density foam material, and a relatively softer and/or more yielding
material for the cushioning insert 60, such as at least one of a
lower density foam material, memory foam, and gel material. In yet
another version, the support insert 16 may itself be configured to
extend along at least a portion of the sling body 18 to act as a
cushioning insert for the infant's body, i.e., a single unitary
insert may be provided that acts as both support and cushioning
inserts.
[0040] In one version, the support and/or cushioning inserts 16, 60
are inserted into the sling body 18 by sewing or otherwise
permanently attaching to the sling body 18. However, it should be
understood that the inserts 16, 60 can also be provided in a
detachable form such that the inserts 16, 60 can be placed in the
sling body 18 and then removed as desired. For example, one or more
of the support and cushioning inserts 16, 60 can comprise snaps,
button, zippers, hook and loop-type closures, or other types of
closures that releasably attach the inserts 16, 60 to the support
body 18. In a preferred embodiment, at least one and even both of
the head support insert 25 and body support bolsters 33a, 33b are
configured to be readily detachable from the sling body 18, for
example to accommodate a larger or older infant 12. The neck
support bolster 15 may also optionally be provided in detachable
form.
[0041] The construction of the sling body 18 is devised to provide
support and comfort to the infant 12, as well as the sling wearer
24. In the version shown in FIGS. 6-7, the elongate bottom panel 28
comprises multiple layers of materials designed to provide comfort
and support as well as air circulation to the interior compartment
20 of the sling body 18 and the infant 12 being carried therein. In
this version, the elongate bottom panel 28 comprises a base layer
35 formed of perforated foam that is covered by an overlying layer
(not shown) formed of a breathable material, such as a mesh layer.
A support structure 37 is disposed beneath the base layer 35, and
finally a bottom breathable mesh layer (not shown) is provided to
cover the support structure 37 and the bottom of the base layer 35.
The breathable mesh layers and perforated foam layer provide 35
increased air circulation to improve the infant's breathing and
oxygen saturation, while also cooling and supporting the infant 12
in the interior compartment 20. The support structure 37 is
configured to provide support to the infant's body and torso. In
the cut-away version as shown in FIG. 7, the support structure 37
comprises a plurality of support beams 37a extending beneath the
base layer 35 of perforated foam. The support beams 37a connect
upper and lower U-shaped regions 37b of the support structure 37,
and provide increased support to a mid section of the sling body 18
to reduce sagging or deformation thereof, and to thereby facilitate
the maintaining of the infant's body 17in a more proper and
comfortable alignment. The support structure 37 may be formed of a
material having a degree of rigidity, such as for example a plastic
material, to provide support to the base layer 35, with the support
structure 37 preferably also having a degree of resiliency and
"give" such that the elongate bottom panel 28 remains comfortable
to the infant 12. With regards to the comfort and support of the
infant 12, it should be furthermore understood that the length of
the elongate bottom panel 28 is selected to provide comfortable leg
extension for the infant 12, as well as a comfortable degree of
flexion for the infant's developing muscles. The construction of
the elongate bottom panel 28, including the support provided by the
support structure 37, thus provides a supported elongated surface
on which the infant 12 can comfortable stretch out, substantially
without excessive cramping or bending of the infant's legs.
[0042] The sling body 18 is supported on the wearer 44 via at least
one adjustable shoulder strap 22 that is extensible about the
wearer's shoulder and/or back, as described above. As shown in
FIGS. 1 and 2, the adjustable shoulder strap 22 comprises first and
second opposing ends 62a, 62b that are configured to attach to the
sling body 18, such as at prescribed locations on opposing front
and rear sections at opposing ends 64a, 64b of the longitudinal
axis of the sling body. The adjustable shoulder strap 22 can
further comprise first and second shoulder strap segments 66a, 66b
and a strap adjustment connector 68 configured to attach the first
and second segments 66a, 66b to one another and to allow adjustment
of the overall length of the shoulder strap 22. Alternatively, the
shoulder strap 22 can comprise a single strap segment that is
attached to the sling body 18 at its opposing ends via the strap
adjustment connector 68, or can comprise alternative configurations
of strap segments and connectors. The shoulder strap 22 can further
comprise one or more releasable fastening buckles to allow
quick-release fastening of first and second strap segments 66a, 66b
to each other, or releasable fastening of the shoulder strap 22 to
the sling body 18 (not shown). The shoulder strap 22 also comprises
a padded section 69 configured to be positioned over at least a
portion of the wearer's neck and or shoulders to increase comfort
in carrying the sling 10.
[0043] Further support for the sling body 18 during use in
transporting and/or carrying an infant 12 can be provided by the
adjustable lumbar belt 26 as described above, which is configured
to attach to the sling body 18 as well as extend about the body of
the wearer 24. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the sling
body 18 can comprise at least one, and preferably a pair of belt
loops 70a, 70b on opposing exterior surfaces 72a, 72b of the sling
body side panels 30a, 30b. The belt loops 70a, 70b are configured
to accommodate the passage of the lumbar belt 26 therethrough to
connect the lumbar belt 26 to the sling body 18. The lumbar belt 26
comprises at least one adjustable belt segment 74, a strap cincher
76, and a lumbar belt pad 78 located on a region of the belt 26
configured to be positioned about the lumbar region of the back of
the wearer 24. The lumbar belt 26 also typically comprises a
releasable strap buckle 80. In the version as shown, the lumbar
belt 26 comprises a first belt segment 74a configured to pass
through the belt loops 70a, 70b, and a second segment 74b
comprising the lumbar belt pad 78, as well as a strap cincher 76
and releasable strap buckle 80 that attach the first and second
segments 74a, 74b of the belt 26 to one another.
[0044] The belt loops 70a, 70b located on opposing sides of the
sling body 18 allow for the wearer 24 to selectively position the
sling body 18. For example, in the version as shown in FIG. 1, the
lumbar belt 26 is extended through belt loop 70b on opposing side
panel 30b, resulting in the sling body 18 being positioned such
that the head of the infant 12 is carried towards the left side of
the body of the wearer 24. To reverse this position such that the
infant's head is carried towards the right side of the wearer's
body, the lumbar belt 26 is extended through belt loop 70a on the
opposite side panel 30a. The lumbar belt 26 can thus be selectively
extended through the belt loops 70a, 70b to provide a desired
position of the sling body 18 with respect to the wearer 24.
[0045] The adjustable sling 10 can further comprise other
attachments and/or modifications that are generally suitable for
child carriers, and/or that otherwise enhance the performance of
the sling 10. For example, the sling 10 can comprise one or more
interior or exterior pockets or pouches configured to hold infant
care items, such as bottles, toys, blankets, pacifiers, diaper
changing supplies, and the like, and optionally other accessories
such as cell phones, wallets, keys, and other similar items. The
sling 10 may also comprise further straps and attachment members
and devices to adjust the shape and configuration of the sling body
18. For example, in one version, the periphery 82 of the side
panels 30a, 30b can be elasticized to at least partially enclose
the sling body 18 about the infant 12. Additionally or
alternatively, the periphery 82 of the side panels 30a, 30b can
comprise a cinching strap or similar mechanism (not shown) to
adjust the size thereof, and thus adjust the size of the opening to
the interior compartment 20.
[0046] The improved sling 10 according to the present invention can
thus be understood to provide improved comfort and security to an
infant 12 being carried and/or transported therein. The retention
flap 14 allows for an infant 12 to be more securely retained and
held within the interior compartment 20 of the sling 10, thus
reducing the likelihood of accident or injury to the infant 12. The
support insert 16 increase the infant's comfort by stabilizing the
head and/or neck of the infant 12. The improved sling 10 thus
provides for more secure, comfortable and stable transport of an
infant 12, substantially without sacrificing desirable aspects of
conventional infant slings.
[0047] 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 components and steps
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 and methods within
the spirit and scope of the invention. Along these lines, it should
be understood that the retention flap 14 and support insert 16 may
take any of a variety of forms that are known or later developed in
the art, and further contemplates that existing or newly formed
retention flaps 14 and support inserts 16 should fall within the
scope of the present invention. Also, it should be understood that
the shoulder strap 22, lumbar belt 26 and carrier body can comprise
other configurations that are other than those specifically
described.
* * * * *