U.S. patent application number 12/503503 was filed with the patent office on 2011-01-20 for infant bouncer and activity stand.
Invention is credited to Paul C. Gilles, Wicky Lee, Mike Miroewski, Michael Parness.
Application Number | 20110012408 12/503503 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43464749 |
Filed Date | 2011-01-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110012408 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lee; Wicky ; et al. |
January 20, 2011 |
INFANT BOUNCER AND ACTIVITY STAND
Abstract
The present invention is directed to an infant bouncer and
activity stand for entertaining an infant. The bouncer and activity
stand includes at least one removable infant seat configured to
hold an infant therein, with the removable infant seat of at least
one of a bounceable infant seat and rotatable infant seat type. The
bouncer and activity stand also has an upright support configured
to receive the removable infant seat and support the removable
infant seat thereon. A jumping platform is detachably securable to
the upright support beneath the removable infant seat. The bouncer
and activity stand also optionally has one or more toys and
activities attached thereto that are configured to entertain the
infant.
Inventors: |
Lee; Wicky; (Irvine, CA)
; Miroewski; Mike; (Aurora, OH) ; Gilles; Paul
C.; (Amherst, OH) ; Parness; Michael; (San
Diego, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
STETINA BRUNDA GARRED & BRUCKER
75 ENTERPRISE, SUITE 250
ALISO VIEJO
CA
92656
US
|
Family ID: |
43464749 |
Appl. No.: |
12/503503 |
Filed: |
July 15, 2009 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
297/258.1 ;
297/217.1; 297/217.4 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47D 13/107 20130101;
A47D 1/10 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
297/258.1 ;
297/217.1; 297/217.4 |
International
Class: |
A47D 13/10 20060101
A47D013/10; A47D 1/00 20060101 A47D001/00; A47D 15/00 20060101
A47D015/00; A47C 31/00 20060101 A47C031/00 |
Claims
1. An infant bouncer and activity stand comprising: at least one
removable infant seat configured to hold an infant therein, the
removable infant seat comprising at least one of a bounceable
infant seat and rotatable infant seat; a support stand configured
to receive and support the removable infant seat; a jumping
platform detachably securable to the support stand beneath the
removable infant seat.
2. The infant bouncer and activity stand of claim 1 further
comprising one or more toys and activities configured to entertain
the infant while held in the removable infant seat.
3. The infant bouncer and activity stand of claim 1, wherein the
bounceable infant seat comprises: a seat body configured to hold
the infant therein; a seat base configured to receive the seat
body, the seat base being further configured to be mounted upon the
support stand; and a bouncing mechanism interposed between the seat
body and the seat base and configured to allow the seat body to
bounce relative to the bouncer seat base.
4. The infant bouncer and activity stand of claim 3 wherein the
bouncing mechanism comprising at least one spring.
5. The infant bouncer and activity stand of claim 3 wherein the
bouncing mechanism comprises: at least two adjustable springs
disposed on opposing sides of the infant seat, the adjustable
springs being configured to support the seat body above the seat
base; and a spring tension adjustment mechanism configured to
adjust the tension in the adjustable springs, thereby adjusting the
intensity of the bouncing motion imparted to the infant.
6. The infant bouncer and activity stand of claim 5 wherein the
adjustable springs comprise at least one of polyurethane and coil
springs.
7. The infant bouncer and activity stand of claim 3 wherein the
seat body is configured to accommodate the infant in a supine or
semi-supine position, and wherein an angle of inclination of the
seat body is adjustable with respect to the seat base.
8. The infant bouncer and activity stand of claim 3 wherein the
seat body defines two leg holes formed therein that are sized,
shaped and configured to pass the infants legs therethrough.
9. The infant bouncer and activity stand of claim 3 wherein the
bounceable seat further comprises a rotatable activity bar having
one or more toys, activities and entertainment devices attached
thereto, the rotatable activity bar extending across the seat body
and having first and second ends attached to opposing sides
thereof.
10. The infant bouncer and activity stand of claim 3 wherein the
seat body further comprises a restraining device to restrain the
infant therein.
11. The infant bouncer and activity stand of claim 3 wherein the
rotatable seat comprises: a seat body configured to hold the infant
therein; a seat base configured to receive the seat body, the seat
base being configured to be mounted on the support stand; and a
rotating mechanism configured to allow the seat body to rotate with
the respect to the support stand.
12. The infant bouncer and activity stand of claim 11 wherein the
seat body comprises openings therein configured to pass the
infant's legs therethrough.
13. The infant bouncer and activity stand of claim 12 wherein the
jumping platform is suspended from the support stand relative to
the seat body such that the infant's legs passing through the
openings in the seat body may rest on the jumping platform.
14. The infant bouncer and activity stand of claim 1 wherein the
bouncer stand comprises: a stand top configured to receive the
removable infant seat; and at least three support legs releasably
attached to and configured to support the stand top.
15. The infant bouncer and activity stand of claim 14 wherein the
support stand comprises one or more toys configured to attach to
the stand top.
16. The infant bouncer and activity stand of claim 1 further
comprising electronic controls to selectively control at least one
of: (i) one or more of vibration, rotation, and bouncing motion of
at least a portion of the bouncer and activity stand, and (ii) one
or more of lights, music and sounds emanating from the bouncer and
activity stand.
17. An infant bouncer, comprising: an infant seat configured to
support an infant therein, the infant seat comprising two openings
therein configured to pass the infant's legs therethrough, and
further comprising coverings for said openings that are
transitionable between a closed position in which the openings are
covered to an open position where the openings are uncovered to
allow the infant's legs to pass therethrough; a bounceable support
stand configured to support the infant seat, the bounceable support
stand comprising a base portion and a flexible portion between the
base structure and infant seat that allows for bouncing of the
infant seat; a rotatable activity bar extending from opposing sides
of the infant seat, the activity bar being rotatable from a first
position above the infant seat to a second position towards the
anterior of the infant seat; and a jumping platform removably
attachable to the support stand at a location such that the
infant's legs may be brought in contact the jumping platform when
passed through the openings in the infant seat.
18. The bouncer of claim 17 wherein the infant seat is configured
to accommodate the infant in one or more of a supine, semi-supine,
or seating position when the leg openings are covered, and is
configured to accommodate the infant in a standing position when
the leg openings are uncovered to pass the infant's legs
therethrough.
19. The bouncer of claim 17 wherein the infant seat is pivotally
attached to the support stand such that the infant seat can be
rotated between upright and reclined positions.
20. The bouncer of claim 17 wherein the activity bar comprises one
or more toys, games, and interactive devices attached thereto.
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 to an infant bouncer and
activity stand configured to entertain and/or soothe an infant held
therein by providing an entertaining bouncing motion and also
providing access to one or more toys or activities to entertain the
infant. More particularly, in one embodiment, the present invention
is directed to a multifunctional infant bouncer and activity
station that includes a jumping platform for entertaining the
infant, and also includes at a removable infant seat that is
capable of imparting at least one of a bouncing and rotation motion
to an infant placed therein.
[0005] 2. Related Art
[0006] Baby bouncers are well known by parents and other persons
involved in child care as being effective devices for the
entertainment of infants. Various different types of baby bouncers
exist, with the bouncers in general including a seat for receiving
an infant and a type of bouncing mechanism, such as a spring. The
bouncing mechanism may be configured to cause the seat to vibrate
or bounce in response to, for example, movement of the infant, or
in response to a light push by a parent or other child caretaker,
thereby generating a reciprocating motion that is enjoyable and
even soothing to the infant. An example of a baby bouncer known in
the art is described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 3,656,728 to
Clifton A. Griggs, issued Apr. 18, 1972, which patent is herein
incorporated by reference in its entirety, and includes a seat
disposed above a base frame and diagonal brace members
therebetween, with the diagonal brace members being connected to
the base frame by tension springs that allow an infant placed in
the bouncer to bounce or jump in the seat. Another type of infant
entertainment device that is similar to a baby bouncer is the baby
rocker, an example of which is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,887,945
to Mark A. Sedlack, issued on Mar. 30, 1999, which is herein
incorporated by reference in its entirety. The baby rocker
described therein includes an infant seat and intersecting frame,
with pieces of the frame being interconnected by a spring such that
the seat may be caused to reciprocate or "rock."
[0007] Baby activity stands are also well known in the art, and
typically include a child support structure along with one or more
toys and activities selected to entertain the infant. An example of
such an infant activity center is described, for example, in U.S.
Pat. No. 6,592,425 to Bapst et al, issued Jul. 15, 2003, which is
herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. The activity
stand described therein is capable of activating one or more infant
entertainment components upon detection of movement of the infant
placed therein. Yet another example of an infant activity stand is
described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,700,201 to Bellows et
al, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. The
activity stand described therein has a base, a child support
structure that allows the infant to be placed upright therein, and
supporting legs that include a flexible section to maximize the
range of motion available to the child.
[0008] However, a deficiency with such prior bouncers, rockers and
activity stands is that they typically do not accommodate infants
at different developmental stages. For example, while baby bouncers
that hold an infant in a seated or supine position may be
adequately entertaining for very young infants, they may fail to
provide adequate entertainment and stimulation for older infants,
especially those older infants developing the coordination of their
leg muscles as a prelude to learning to walk and stand. For such
older infants, being placed in a seated position for a significant
stretch of time may be overly restricting and confining at a time
in their life when the ability to stand and play is enticing. On
the other hand, devices that require placement of the infant in an
upright or standing position may not be suitable for very young
infants, such as those not able to support themselves in such a
position or having insufficient leg coordination to benefit from
standing activities. Yet another deficiency of such prior art
bouncers and activity stands is that they may not have adequate
diversity in terms of the entertainment they impart to provide for
adequate entertainment of the infants.
[0009] Accordingly, there remains a need in the art for baby
bouncers and activity stands that accommodate infants at different
developmental stages. There is also a need for multifunctional baby
bouncers and activity stands that provide a wide variety of
activities and motions for entertaining of an infant
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The present invention specifically addresses and alleviates
the above-identified deficiencies in the art. In accordance with a
first embodiment, the present invention is directed to an infant
bouncer and activity stand for entertaining an infant. The bouncer
and activity stand includes at least one removable infant seat
configured to hold an infant therein, with the removable infant
seat being one of a bounceable infant seat and rotatable infant
seat type. The bouncer and activity stand also has an upright
support stand configured to receive the removable infant seat and
support the removable infant seat thereon. A jumping platform is
detachably securable to the support stand beneath the removable
infant seat. The bouncer and activity stand also optionally has one
or more toys and activities attached thereto that are configured to
entertain the infant.
[0011] In accordance with a second embodiment, the present
invention is directed to an infant bouncer which comprises a
flexible frame having an infant seat mounted thereto. Attached to
the frame is a resilient jumping platform to which the infant's
legs may optionally be extended through complimentary openings
within the infant seat. These openings are covered when the infant
is placed in a supine or semi-supine position within the infant
seat. An activity bar is pivotally connected to the infant seat,
and selectively rotatable between differing positions relative
thereto as needed to be accessible to the infant in either a supine
or semi-supine position, or in a standing position upon the jumping
platform.
[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 a combination infant
bouncer and activity stand constructed in accordance with a first
embodiment of the present invention;
[0015] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the bouncer component
of the bouncer and activity stand shown in FIG. 1;
[0016] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of an alternative version of the
bouncer component shown in FIG. 2;
[0017] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of the bouncer and
activity stand shown in FIG. 1 in an alternative mode of operation
through the inclusion of a rotating seat component as an
alternative to the bouncer component;
[0018] FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of the bouncer and
activity stand shown in FIG. 4;
[0019] FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the bouncer and activity stand
shown in FIG. 4;
[0020] FIG. 7 is a front-elevational view of an infant bouncer and
activity stand constructed in accordance with a second embodiment
of the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 8 is a side-elevational view of the bouncer and
activity stand shown in FIG. 7, further illustrating a first mode
of operation thereof; and
[0022] FIG. 9 is a side-elevational view of the bouncer and
activity stand shown in FIG. 7, illustrating a second mode of
operation thereof.
[0023] Common reference numerals are used throughout the drawings
and detailed description to indicate like elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0024] 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.
[0025] An improved apparatus for the entertainment and care of
infants is provided that combines beneficial aspects of a baby
bouncer with those of a baby activity stand, to provide a
multifunctional device suitable for the use and play of infants at
a variety of different developmental stages. In particular, the
bouncer and activity stand 100 of the present invention can combine
functionalities suitable for upright and/or standing activities,
such as those stimulating and appropriate for older and more
developed infants, with functionalities that are suitable for
supine and/or semi-supine activities and thus appealing for younger
infants. The bouncer and activity stand 100 furthermore allows for
transitioning between different activities, such as activities
suitable for different developmental levels and/or between more
active upright and more restful supine or semi-supine activities.
The bouncer and activity stand 100 thus provides for improved
versatility in the entertainment, stimulation and care of infants
by offering a wide range of activities and functionality suitable
for multiple different developmental levels. 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 suitable for
play with the bouncer and activity stand, and thus includes very
young infants as well as older babies and children.
[0026] One version of an infant bouncer and activity stand 100 is
shown in FIGS. 1-6. In this version, the bouncer and activity stand
100 comprises an upright base or support stand 102 configured to
receive at least one removable infant seat 104. The removable
infant seat 104 can comprise any of a variety of different seat
types that impart various functionalities to the bouncer and
activity stand 100. For example, the removable infant seats 104 can
comprise at least one of a bounceable infant seat 104a that allows
a bouncing motion, an example of which is shown in FIG. 1, and a
rotatable infant seat 104b that allows for rotation of an infant
being held therein, as shown for example in FIG. 4. In addition,
the bouncer and activity stand 100 can include a jumping platform
106 that is detachably securable to the support stand 102 at a
position beneath the removable infant seat 104 such that, in
certain embodiments, the infant can jump or bounce on the platform
106 while being supported by the bouncer and activity stand 100.
The bouncer and activity stand 100 may optionally further comprise
one or more additional toys and activities 108 that are configured
to entertain the infant while being supported by the bouncer and
activity stand 100.
[0027] A version of the support stand 102 used to support the
removable infant seat 104 thereon is depicted in FIGS. 1, 4 and 6.
In this version, the support stand 102 comprises a stand top 154
that is configured to receive the removable infant seat 104, and
one or more support legs 152 releasably connected to and configured
to support the stand top 154. In the version as shown, the support
stand 102 has a tripod-like configuration, with three support legs
152 disposed substantially equidistant from each other. When
removed from the support legs 152, the stand top 154 may itself
provide a shorter support structure for one or more of the
removable infant seats 104. The support stand 102 may further
comprise one or more toys and activities 108 attached thereto to
amuse and entertain the infant, as shown for example in FIG. 4. The
support stand 102 is configured to receive the removable infant
seat 104 via a mechanism which removably interlocks the seat 104
therewith, such as to allow interchangeability between different
types of infant seats. In one version, the stand top 154 defines an
annular groove or channel 158 that is sized, shaped and configured
to receive a complementary annular portion of the removable infant
seat 104, as shown for example in FIG. 5. The support stand 102 is
preferably sufficiently stable such that the infant can be safely
and securely supported thereby.
[0028] As indicated above, the bouncer and activity stand 100 also
preferably comprises the jumping platform 106 that is detachably
securable to the support stand 102 beneath the removable infant
seat 104, as shown for example in FIGS. 1 and 4. In the version as
shown, the jumping platform 106 comprises a circular disc that is
secured at its periphery to the support stand 102 via one or more
elastic lines 150, such as for example bungee cord. The jumping
platform 106 may be secured, for example, to the legs 152 of the
support stand 102 beneath the removable infant seat 104. The
jumping platform 106 may be preferably suspended from the support
stand 102 in relation to the removable infant seat 104 such that
the infant's legs can reach and push against the platform 106 to
simulate a jumping or bouncing motion when a removable infant seat
104 is used that supports the infant in an upright seated or
standing position allows the infant's feet to extend therefrom to
the jumping platform.
[0029] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a bouncer and activity
stand 100 having a removable infant seat 104 that is a bouncing
infant seat 104a. As can be seen from FIG. 1, the infant seat 104a
can be generally understood to comprise a bouncer seat body 110
that is configured to hold the infant therein, as well as a bouncer
seat base 112 that is configured to receive the bouncer seat body
110, and is mountable upon the support stand 102. In this regard,
the bouncer seat base 112 preferably includes an annular mounting
portion 113 which is sized and configured to be removably
insertable into the channel 158 of the support stand 102 is a
nesting fashion. The bouncer seat base 112 may also be configured
such that it provides support to the bouncer seat body 110 when
removed from the support stand 102, as shown for example in FIG. 2.
For example, the bouncer seat base 112 may be capable of supporting
the seat body 110 while resting on the floor or other surface,
thereby allowing for use of the bounceable infant seat 104a away
from the support stand 102. The bounceable infant seat 104a further
comprises a bouncing mechanism 114 that imparts at least one of a
bouncing and vibrating motion to an infant held therein, such as a
bouncing mechanism 114 comprising at least one spring 116.
[0030] In the version shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the bouncing
mechanism 114 comprises at least two adjustable springs 116 that
are disposed on opposing sides 118a, 118b of the bounceable infant
seat 104a, such as in between the bouncer seat body 110 and bouncer
seat base 112. The adjustable springs 116 can comprise, for
example, at least one of polyurethane springs and coil springs. The
adjustable springs 116 of this embodiment may thus be configured to
at least partially support the bouncer seat body 110 above the
bouncer seat base 112, and thereby allow a bouncing and/or
vibrating motion of the bouncer seat body 110 with respect to the
bouncer seat base 112. For example, gentle pushing or pulling on
the bouncer seat body 110, as well as, or alternatively, movement
of the infant therein, may be sufficient to generate an
entertaining, stimulating, and even soothing, bouncing and/or
vibrating motion, according to the intensity thereof. In one
version, the bouncing and/or vibrating motion may even be activated
electronically, such as with an electronic mechanism 156 capable of
controlling the bouncing and/or vibrating motion. The bouncing
mechanism 114 can further comprise a spring adjustment mechanism
120 configured to adjust at least one of the tension and travel of
one or more of the springs 116, and thereby control the extent and
intensity of the bouncing and/or vibrating motion generated
thereby. In the version depicted in FIGS. 1-2, two spring
adjustment mechanisms 120 are operatively coupled to respective
ones of the opposed pair of springs 116. Each spring adjustment
mechanism 120 may comprise an adjustable knob 122 that is capable
of adjusting a level of bounce of the infant bouncer seat 104a
through the manipulation of the corresponding one of the springs
116.
[0031] The version of the infant bouncer seat 104a depicted in
FIGS. 1-2 may be particularly suited for accommodating younger
infants that may be more comfortable when resting in a supine or
semi-supine position, as shown. To that end, the bouncer seat body
110 may be configured to accommodate such a position, such as by
being shaped, sized and configured to accommodate an infant laying
supine or semi-supine within the bouncer seat body 110. The infant
bouncer seat 104a may also be configured such that an angle of
inclination of the bouncer seat body 110 is adjustable with respect
to the bouncer seat base 112, such as by pivotally or rotatably
attaching the bouncer seat body 110 thereto. In yet another
version, the bouncer seat body 110 can define two leg holes formed
therein that are sized, shaped and configured to pass the infant's
legs therethrough, such as for example to accommodate an older
infant in an upright seated or even standing position.
[0032] As indicated above, one or more toys and activities 108 may
be included as part of the bouncer and activity stand 100 to
increase the enjoyment of the infant being held and/or supported
therein. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the bouncer and
activity stand 100 can comprise an activity bar 124 which is
cooperatively engaged to the infant bouncer seat 104a and has one
or more toys and activities 108 attached thereto. The toys and
activities 108 can include any of those conventional in the art,
such as for example, squeezable toys or other toys having a
stimulating feel, color or sound, as well as games and electronic
entertainment devices. In the version shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the
activity bar 124 extends laterally across the bouncer seat body 110
and has first and second ends 126a, 126b attached to respective
ones of the opposing sides 118a, 118b thereof. In one version, the
activity bar 124 is configured to accommodate infants in both the
supine position as well as in a more upright seated and/or standing
position, such as by being rotatable from a first position above
the infant bouncer seat 104a to a second position towards the
anterior (e.g., in front of) the infant bouncer seat 104a. In this
manner, the activity bar 124 can provide overhead entertainment for
an infant lying down in the infant bouncer seat 104a, and can also
provide entertainment for an infant sitting upright in the infant
bouncer seat 104a by providing toys and activities 108 in front of
and within the infant's reach.
[0033] An alternative version of an infant bouncer seat 104a' is
shown in FIG. 4, which provides an exploded view of the components
thereof. In this version, the bouncer seat body 110' comprises a
bouncer seat shell 110a' and a bouncer seat liner 110b' that lines
the shell 110a'. The above-described activity bar 124 is removably
attached to the opposing sides 118a', 118b' of the infant bouncer
seat 104a' through the use of respective ones of a pair of
attachment knobs 122'. The bouncer seat base 112' of this version
comprises a top mount section 112a' and a bottom mount section
112b', with the top mount section 112a' comprising an annular ring
128a', and upright support arms 130a', 130b' configured to receive
the bouncer seat body 110'. In the version as shown, the upright
arms 130a', 130b' are configured to pivotally mount the bouncer
seat body 110' thereon, such as by having distal openings formed
therein receive a circular rod passing therethrough and connecting
to the bouncer seat body 110'. The bottom mount section 112b'
similarly comprises an annular ring 128b' having a shape and size
that is complementary to the top mount section 112a'. The ring
128b' is further sized and configured to be removably insertable
into the channel 158 of the support stand 102 is a nesting fashion.
The infant bouncer seat 104a' of this version further comprise a
bouncing mechanism 114' comprising a plurality of springs 116'
disposed between the top and bottom mount sections 112a', 112b',
thereby at least partially supporting the top mount section 112a'
above the bottom mount section 112b' to allow a bouncing and/or
vibrating motion therebetween. The plurality of springs 116' can be
disposed circumferentially about the top and bottom mount sections
112a', 112b' as shown, and can comprise, for example at least two,
and even at least four springs 116'. Similar to the embodiment
shown in FIGS. 1-2 and described above, the springs 116' may be
adjustable springs 116' having a spring adjustment mechanism (not
shown) to adjust a level of bounce provided by the bounceable
infant seat 104a'. FIG. 3 further depicts the liner 110b' as
including a restraining device 132', such as a retention flap and
belt, which are configured to safely restrain the infant within the
bounceable infant seat 104a'. It should be understood that the
restraining device 132' can also be used with other infant seat
embodiments described herein (e.g., the bouncer seat 104a), and may
further comprise other retention devices other than those
specifically shown.
[0034] Another version of removable infant seat 104 suitable for
use with the infant bouncer and activity stand 100 comprises a
rotatable infant seat 104b, as shown for example in FIGS. 4-6. In
the version shown in FIGS. 4-6, the rotatable infant seat 104b
comprises a rotatable seat base 134. The seat base 134 comprises an
annular bottom section 136 which defines an annular channel or
cavity 138. Rotatably mounted to the bottom section 136 is a
plurality of wheels 140. As seen in FIG. 5, the wheels 140 are
mounted to the bottom section 136 so as to reside predominantly
within the cavity 138 defined thereby. However, a small portion of
each wheel 140 protrudes slightly above the top rim 142 defined by
the bottom section 136.
[0035] In addition to the bottom section 136, the seat base 134
includes an annular top section 144 which is mounted to the bottom
section 136 and rotatable relative thereto. In this regard, as also
seen in FIG. 5, the bottom surface of a radially extending flange
portion of the top section 144 rides along each of the wheels 140
in a manner allowing for the rotational movement of the top section
144 relative to the bottom section 136.
[0036] In addition to the seat base 134, the infant seat 104b
includes a stand-up liner 146 which is mounted to the seat base
134. As seen in FIGS. 5 and 6, the liner 146 includes a seat
portion having a pair of openings 148 which are configured to allow
for the passage of an infant legs therethrough. Additionally, the
liner 146 itself includes a radially extending flange portion which
is adapted to overlie and thus cover the top surface of the
radially extending flange portion of the top section 144 of the
seat base 134 in the manner best shown in FIG. 5. The liner 146 may
take any of a variety of suitable forms, such as those suitable for
supporting an infant in a supine or semi-supine position, as well
as a form suitable for supporting an infant in an upright standing
position, as shown for example in FIG. 4. In addition to the seat
base 134 and liner 146, it is contemplated that the infant seat
104b may include an optional padded ring 148 which is attached to
the top surface of the radially extending flange portion of the
liner 146.
[0037] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the infant seat 104b is
cooperatively engaged to the support stand 102 via the receipt of
the seat base 134 into the complimentary channel 158 of the support
stand 102 in a nesting fashion. When the seat 104b is cooperatively
engaged to the support stand 102 in the aforementioned manner, an
infant held within the seat 104b is able to rotate relative to the
support stand 102. The infant can thus stand in the bouncer and
activity stand 100 as outfitted with the rotatable seat 104b, and
can use the motion of his or her legs to rotate the liner 146 in a
circular direction. Alternatively, a child care taker, parent or
the like can generally rotate the infant within the liner 146.
Still further, an electronic means can be used to electronically
activate and control the rotation of the rotatable liner 146. It
should be understood that other mechanisms for rotation can be
provided other than those specifically shown and described above.
The padded ring 148 effectively protects the infant from accidental
falls from the bouncer and activity stand 100, in addition to
keeping the infant's hands and fingers safe from the rotatable
parts of the bouncer and activity stand 100 as outfitted with the
rotatable infant seat 104b.
[0038] As indicated above, the bouncer and activity stand 100
preferably comprises the jumping platform 106 that is detachably
secured to the support stand 102 beneath the removable infant seat
104. In the version of the bouncer and activity stand 100 including
the rotatable infant seat 104b, the infant's legs may pass through
the openings 148 formed in the liner 146 and rest on the platform
106, thereby allowing the infant to rotate him or herself as well
as experience a jumping sensation. In versions of the bouncer and
activity stand 100 wherein the infant seat 104 is configured for
supine or semi-supine placement of the infant therein, and thus
where the infant's feet are not extended below the seat body, the
jumping platform 106 may advantageously serve as a convenient
location for the storage of baby care items, toys and the like, as
shown for example in FIG. 1. The jumping platform 106 may
additionally be equipped with sound-making devices that emit sounds
upon application of pressure to the platform 106, such as sound
making-devices that emit different tones or music when selected
areas of the platform 106 are stepped on or pressed. In this
manner, the jumping platform 106 may be used for entertainment even
when removed from the bouncer and activity stand 100, such as for
example by setting the platform 106 on the floor or other surface
and allowing the infant to step or crawl thereon. Additionally, as
indicated above, the bouncer and activity stand 100 described above
may further comprise electronic controls 156 thereon, such as for
example on one or more of the seat base 112 and/or on the
detachable stand top 154, as shown for example in FIG. 1. The
electronic controls 156 may be capable of, for example, controlling
the activation, intensity and duration of one or more of a
rotation, vibration and bouncing motion of at least a portion of
the bouncer and activity stand 100, and may also be capable of
controlling one or more of lights, music and sounds emanating from
the bouncer and activity stand 100, as well as any electronic games
and/or activities that may be included as a part of the bouncer and
activity stand 100. Accordingly, the bouncer and activity stand 100
of the instant invention provides for improved entertainment and
stimulation of an infant via a number of different functions, and
also allows for entertainment of the infant in a number of
different reclining and/or upright positions, thereby accommodating
infants of different ages and developmental stages. The bouncer and
activity stand 100 thus provides an improved option for the
entertainment of infants that can continue to be used as the infant
grows and progresses developmentally.
[0039] Yet another version of an infant bouncer and activity stand
200 is depicted in FIGS. 7-9. Similarly to the previous versions,
the bouncer and activity stand 200 of this version is capable of
accommodating an infant both in a reclining as well as in an
upright position, and thus is also suitable for infants at a
variety of developmental stages. In general, the bouncer and
activity stand 200 comprises an infant seat 202 configured to
support an infant therein, as well as a bounceable support stand
204, rotatable activity bar 206, and a jumping platform 208. The
bouncer and activity stand 200 according to this version thus
provides a variety of stimulating activities for the infant being
supported therein.
[0040] Referring to FIG. 8, it can be seen that the infant seat 202
is configured to support the infant in a supine, semi-supine or
seated position. However, the infant seat 202 can also support the
infant in an upright standing position, as shown in FIG. 9.
Transitioning between the two support positions is achieved by
providing two openings 210 in the infant seat 202 that are
configured to pass the infant's legs therethrough. The infant seat
202 can further comprise covers for the openings 210 that are
transitionable between a closed position in which the openings are
covered, such as when the infant is seated or supine in the infant
seat 202, as shown for example in FIG. 8, to an open position where
the openings 210 are uncovered to allow the infant's legs to pass
therethrough, such as to accommodate the infant in a standing
position, as shown for example in FIG. 9. The infant seat 202 may
also be pivotally attached to the support stand 204 such that the
infant seat 202 can be rotated between upright and reclined
positions.
[0041] The bounceable support stand 204 is configured to support
the infant seat 202 thereon while also allowing for a bouncing
motion of the seat 202 and infant being held therein. In the
version as shown in FIGS. 7-9, the bounceable support stand 204
comprises a base portion 212, and an elastic, flexing portion 214
between the base portion 212 and infant seat 202 that allows for
bouncing of the infant seat 202. For example, the flexing portion
214 of the support stand 204 can have qualities of elasticity and
resiliency capable of imparting a bouncing motion to the seat 204
and infant held therein, such as upon movement of the infant seat
204. The support stand 162 thus provides entertainment for the
infant in the form of a bouncing motion that can be enjoyed both in
a reclining position as well as in an upright standing
position.
[0042] The rotatable activity bar 206 and jumping platform 208
function similarly to those described above in the first bouncer
and activity stand embodiment. In particular, the rotatable
activity bar 206 is pivotally connected to and extends from
opposing sides 216a, 216b of the infant seat 202, with the activity
bar 206 being rotatable from a first position above the infant seat
202, as shown for example in FIG. 8, to a second position towards
the front of the infant
[0043] Seat 202, as shown for example in fig. 9, to allow the
infant to play therewith both in reclining: an upright positions.
The activity bar 206 comprises one or more toys and activities 218
that are suited for entertaining and stimulating the infant while
being supported by the bouncer and activity stand 200. The jumping
platform 208 is removably attachable to the bouncer support stand
204 at a location such that the infant's legs may be brought in
contact with the jumping platform 208 when passed through the
openings 210 in the infant seat 202. The jumping platform 208 is
suspended above the floor or other surface upon which the support
stand 204 rests by one or more elastic lines 220, such as bungee
cords. More particularly, the elastic lines 220 are preferably
attached to respective ones of a plurality of supports 222 which
are attached to the base portion 212 of the support stand 204 and
effectively support the same upon an underlying surface. An infant
pressing against the jumping platform 208 thus experiences the
stimulating sensation of jumping or bouncing, thereby providing
entertainment to the infant. The jumping platform 208 may also
comprise pressure-sensitive sound emission devices to emit sounds
in response to jumping or pressing on select areas of the jumping
platform, as described for the embodiments above.
[0044] 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 removable infant seats 104 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 infant seats
should fall within the scope of the present invention. Also, it
should be understood that the support stand 102 and bouncer support
stand 204 can comprise other configurations that are other than
those specifically described.
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