U.S. patent application number 12/644311 was filed with the patent office on 2011-06-23 for collapsible infant support.
This patent application is currently assigned to Mattel, Inc.. Invention is credited to Linda J. Chapman, Margo Block Moulin, Justin C. Taton.
Application Number | 20110148155 12/644311 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44150004 |
Filed Date | 2011-06-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110148155 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Chapman; Linda J. ; et
al. |
June 23, 2011 |
Collapsible Infant Support
Abstract
The present invention is directed toward an infant support
including a frame and an infant seat. The frame includes a first
frame member pivotally coupled to a second frame member. The
footers of the frame member are curved to permit the rocking of the
frame on its support surface. The seat includes angled wall
portions that define an offset lowest point. With this
configuration, a child placed within the seat is safely positioned
within the seat such that the child experiences a front-to-back
rocking motion.
Inventors: |
Chapman; Linda J.; (Corfu,
NY) ; Moulin; Margo Block; (Buffalo, NY) ;
Taton; Justin C.; (Clarence, NY) |
Assignee: |
Mattel, Inc.
El Segundo
CA
|
Family ID: |
44150004 |
Appl. No.: |
12/644311 |
Filed: |
December 22, 2009 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
297/16.1 ;
297/271.5; 5/120 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47D 9/02 20130101; A47D
13/102 20130101; A47D 9/005 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
297/16.1 ; 5/120;
297/271.5 |
International
Class: |
A47D 1/02 20060101
A47D001/02; A45F 3/22 20060101 A45F003/22; A47D 13/10 20060101
A47D013/10 |
Claims
1. An infant support structure, comprising: a frame assembly
including: a first frame member, and a second frame member
pivotally coupled to the first frame member, each of the first
frame member and the second frame member including a footer
configured to rock on a support surface; and a infant support
portion coupled to the frame, the support portion defining a
receptacle in which an infant may be placed, the support portion
comprising a first end, a second end opposite to the first end, a
first side, and a second side opposite to the first side, the first
side being coupled to the first frame portion, the second side
being coupled to the second frame portion, the support portion
having a lowermost point, the lowermost point being located closer
to the second end than to the first end.
2. The infant support structure of claim 1, wherein the first end
and the second end of the support portion are located at different
heights relative to a support surface.
3. The infant support structure of claim 1, wherein the support
portion is a fabric member, the fabric member being suspended from
the first frame portion and the second frame portion.
4. The infant support structure of claim 1, wherein the support
portion includes a first side portion, a second side portion, and a
body portion extending from the first end to the second end and
being coupled to the first side portion and to the second side
portion.
5. The infant support structure of claim 4, further comprising: an
insert member being configured to be placed proximate to the body
portion, the insert member maintaining the first side portion and
the second side portion spaced apart when an infant is placed in
the receiving area.
6. The infant support structure of claim 5, wherein the insert
member has a width and the body portion has a width, the width of
the insert member being substantially the same as the width of the
body portion.
7. The infant support structure of claim 1, wherein the frame
assembly further comprises a first hub and a second hub, the first
frame member being coupled to the first hub and the second hub, the
second frame member being coupled to the first hub and the second
hub, the first and second hubs permitting the rotation of the first
frame member with respect to the second frame member; and at least
one of the first hub and the second hub includes a locking
mechanism configured to selectively release the first frame member
to permit the rotation of the frame members toward each other to
collapse the frame assembly.
8. A rocking hammock, comprising: a frame assembly including: a
first rocking portion including a curved lower end configured to
rock on a support surface; a second rocking portion being coupled
to the first rocking portion, the second rocking portion including
a curved lower end configured to rock on a support surface; and an
infant seat supported by the frame, the infant seat including: a
flexible support portion, the support portion being coupled to the
first rocking portion and to the second rocking portion, the
support portion defining a receiving area in which an infant may be
placed, the support portion defining a width; and a resilient
insert member, the insert member disposed proximate to the support
portion, the insert being configured to maintain the width of the
support portion when an infant is placed in the receiving area.
9. The rocking hammock of claim 8, wherein the insert member
comprises a unitary band that defines a central opening.
10. The rocking hammock of claim 8, wherein the infant seat has a
first end and a second end opposite to the first end, the insert
member being located closer to the first end than to the second
end.
11. An infant support structure comprising: a frame including at
least one rocking portion configured to engage a support surface;
and a receiving assembly coupled to the frame, the receiving
assembly defining a receptacle in which an infant may be placed,
the receiving assembly including a flexible support member having a
trunk portion and a foot portion coupled to the back portion, the
trunk portion and the foot portion being disposed at an angle
relative to each other, the trunk portion including a resilient
brace configured to maintain the orientation and position of the
infant placed in the receptacle.
12. The infant support structure of claim 11, wherein the resilient
brace is fixedly coupled to the support member.
13. The infant support structure of claim 12, wherein the support
member includes a first fabric member and a second fabric member,
the first fabric member and second fabric member defining a cavity
therebetween, the resilient brace being located in the cavity.
14. The infant support structure of claim 11, wherein the trunk
portion has a length and the foot portion has a length, and the
length of the trunk portion being greater than the length of the
foot portion.
15. The infant support structure of claim 14, wherein the trunk
portion includes sides and a bottom, and the resilient brace
extends substantially along the length, sides, and bottom of the
trunk portion.
16. A rocking infant support comprising: a frame assembly
including: a first frame member comprising: a footer bar operable
to rock along a supporting surface, and a header bar oriented in
spaced relation from the footer bar, and a second frame member
comprising: a footer bar operable to rock along a supporting
surface, and a header bar oriented in spaced relation from the
footer bar; and a flexible seat assembly suspended from the frame
assembly, the flexible seat comprising a flexible wall operable to
support an infant, wherein the wall includes a trunk portion
coupled to a foot portion, the trunk portion being oriented at an
acute angle with respect to the foot portion.
17. The rocking infant support of claim 16 further comprising: a
substantially rigid support brace housed within the flexible wall
of the seat assembly.
18. The rocking infant support of claim 16, wherein the frame
assembly further comprises a hub assembly, the hub pivotally
couples the first frame member to the second frame member in an
intersecting relationship, and the frame assembly pivots between an
open configuration to a closed configuration.
19. The rocking infant support of claim 18, wherein the hub
assembly comprises: a first hub member, and a second hub member
oriented coaxially with the first hub member, the first frame
member being longitudinally offset from the second hub member.
20. The rocking infant support of claim 16, wherein the flexible
seat assembly further comprises: a first longitudinal wall coupled
to the header bar of the first frame member, and a second
longitudinal wall coupled to the header bar of the second frame
member, the flexible wall is a bottom wall oriented between the
first and second longitudinal walls.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to an infant support and, in
particular, to a rocking infant support that folds from a deployed
configuration to a collapsed configuration.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Parents have available to them a myriad of infant support
devices. For example, infant mats or gyms are easily portable, and
provide an infant with a comfortable, sanitary place to rest. While
infant mats can be easily packed away into a car or a diaper bag,
such supports cannot be rocked or otherwise manipulated to soothe
and pacify the infant. Bassinets and cradles, furthermore, are
typically not easy to collapse for storage or transport.
Conventional bassinets are not capable of being rocked and, while
sturdy, are often expensive, especially when considering that they
are generally only used during the infant's first months. As a
result, strollers are often used as makeshift cribs when traveling.
While many strollers can be quickly collapsed and stored into a
trunk or back seat, they are generally not recommended for use with
very small infants as a portable crib or cradle because the seat
portion does not offer adequate support for the infant's back and
neck.
[0003] Thus, it would be desirable to provide an infant support
that is easily portable, securely supports and infant, and takes
advantage of the relaxing and sleep inducing effects produced by
gentle rocking motion.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The present invention is directed toward an infant support
device including a frame and an infant seat. The frame includes a
first frame member pivotally coupled to a second frame member via a
hub assembly. In one embodiment, the frame includes two hub
assemblies. The footers of the frame members are curved to permit
the rocking of the frame along a supporting surface. The seat
includes angled wall portions that form an offset support. With
this configuration, a child placed within the seat is safely
supported on the seat and is oriented at a predetermined support
angle. The infant support device may be selectively reconfigured
from a deployed configuration to a folded/stowed configuration, and
vice versa.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] FIG. 1 illustrates a front perspective view of a rockable
infant support in accordance with an embodiment of the
invention.
[0006] FIG. 2 illustrates a front perspective view of the infant
support shown in FIG. 1, with the seat removed for clarity.
[0007] FIG. 3 illustrates a close-up view of stop members in
accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
[0008] FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate views of a hub in accordance with
and embodiment of the invention. Specifically, FIG. 4A illustrates
a close-up perspective view of the forward hub, and FIG. 4B
illustrates an exploded view of the forward hub.
[0009] FIG. 5 illustrates a front view in plan of the frame shown
in FIG. 2.
[0010] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate the infant support oriented in
its stowed configuration. Specifically, FIG. 6A illustrates the
frame of FIG. 5 oriented in its stowed configuration, and FIG. 6B
illustrates a side view in plan of the frame shown in FIG. 6A.
[0011] FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate the seat in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention. Specifically, FIG. 7A illustrates a
top view in plan, and FIG. 7B illustrates a side view in plan.
[0012] FIG. 8A illustrates a top view of a seat brace in accordance
with an embodiment of the invention.
[0013] FIG. 8B illustrates a top view of a seat brace in accordance
with another embodiment of the invention.
[0014] FIG. 8C illustrates the seat brace of FIG. 8B secured within
the seat of FIG. 7A.
[0015] FIG. 9 illustrates a front perspective view of the device
shown in FIG. 1 oriented in its stowed configuration.
[0016] FIG. 10 illustrates a side perspective view of the infant
support shown in FIG. 1.
[0017] FIG. 11 illustrates a close-up perspective view of a
mounting component of the infant support shown in FIG. 10.
[0018] FIG. 12 illustrates another close-up perspective view of the
mounting component shown in FIG. 11.
[0019] FIG. 13 illustrates an end view of the mounting component
shown in FIG. 11.
[0020] FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of the mounting component
shown in FIG. 11 and a portion of the seat of the infant
support.
[0021] FIG. 15 illustrates a close-up view of the mounting
component and seat portion shown in FIG. 14 assembled.
[0022] FIG. 16 illustrates a front perspective view of an
alternative embodiment of a rockable infant support.
[0023] FIG. 17 illustrates a side view of the infant support shown
in FIG. 16.
[0024] FIG. 18 illustrates a bottom perspective view of components
of the infant support shown in FIG. 16 and viewed from one
side.
[0025] FIG. 19 illustrates another bottom perspective view of the
components of the infant support shown in FIG. 18 and viewed from
another side.
[0026] Like reference numerals have been used to identify like
elements throughout this disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0027] The terms "support," "support device," and "support
structure" are used to refer to any frame or support that is
configured to provide support for an object. The terms "infant
support," "infant support device," and "infant support structure"
are used to refer to any frame or support that can be used to
support an infant in a stationary manner or in a moving manner.
Some exemplary infant support structures are swings, bassinets,
playards, cribs, jumping devices, bouncers, high chairs, rockers,
hammocks, etc. The terms "child" and "infant" may be used
interchangeably herein. The terms "trunk" and "torso" may be used
interchangeably herein.
[0028] Referring to FIG. 1, the infant support 100 according to the
present invention includes a frame assembly 110 that supports an
infant seat assembly or receptacle 120 (also called an infant
support portion) above a supporting surface. The frame assembly 110
includes mounting components to couple softgoods to the frame
assembly 110, as described in greater detail below. In FIG. 1, only
mounting components 1010 and 1020 are shown.
[0029] As shown in FIG. 2, the frame assembly 110 includes a first
frame member 210 and a second frame member 215. The first frame
member 210 defines a generally rectangular structure including a
rear lateral bar 220A oriented in spaced, generally parallel
relation from a forward lateral bar 225A. Similarly, an upper
crossbar or header 230A is oriented in spaced, generally parallel
relation from a lower crossbar or footer 235A. Specifically, the
header 230A extends between the lateral bars 220A, 225A proximate
their upper terminal ends, while the footer 235A extends between
the lateral bars 220A, 225A proximate their lower terminal ends. In
this embodiment, the header 230A has opposite ends or end portions
230C and 230D that have the same length and extend the same
distance from the main portion of the header 230A.
[0030] The second frame member 215 possesses a similar structure,
having a rear lateral bar 220B oriented in spaced, generally
parallel relation from a forward lateral bar 225B, as well as an
upper crossbar or header 230B, is oriented in spaced, generally
parallel relation from a lower crossbar or footer 235B.
Specifically, the header 230B extends between the lateral bars
220B, 225B proximate their upper terminal ends, while the footer
235B extends between the lateral bars proximate their lower
terminal ends. In this embodiment, the header 230B has opposite
ends or end portions 230E and 230F that have the same length and
extend the same distance from the main portion of the header 230B.
As described below, in different embodiments, the lengths of the
end portions of the headers can vary.
[0031] The headers 230A, 230B support the infant seat 120
(discussed in greater detail below). The footers 235A, 235B contact
a supporting surface, such as the floor. In this embodiment, the
headers 230A, 230B and/or the footers 235A, 235B may possess a
generally arcuate shape having a predetermined radius of curvature.
Preferably, the footers 235A, 235B possess an arcuate shape that
defines a curved surface along which the frame assembly 110 may be
rocked. With this configuration, the frame assembly 110 rocks
longitudinally (front to back along an axis defined by the hubs,
also discussed in greater detail below), providing a soothing
effect to an infant supported by the seat.
[0032] The shape and dimensions of the frame members 210, 215 of
the frame assembly 110 may be any suitable for their described
purpose. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the first frame member 210
possesses a height (measured between the header and footer) and
width (measured between lateral bars) substantially equal to that
of the second frame member 215.
[0033] Referring to FIG. 2, the components of frame member 210 are
coupled together using swaged or tapered ends and spring-loaded
buttons, such as valco buttons. In particular, the ends or end
portions 230C and 230D of header 230A are swaged so that they are
insertable into the upper ends of lateral bars 220A and 225A.
Similarly, the ends of footer 235A are swaged so that they are
insertable into the lower ends of lateral bars 220A and 225A. Valco
buttons or tabs are inserted into the ends of the lateral bars 220A
and 225A and include projections (such as projections 231 and 233
in FIG. 2) that extend through openings in the lateral bars 220A
and 225A and the corresponding header 230A or footer 235A to couple
the particular components together. Similarly, the components of
frame member 215 are configured and assembled in the same
manner.
[0034] The frame assembly 110 may further include one or more stop
members 240 placed at predetermined locations along the frame
members 210, 215. In the illustrated embodiment, the first frame
member 210 includes two stop members 240, each being positioned
proximate the longitudinal ends of its associated footer 235A and
generally aligned with a corresponding lateral bar 220A or 225A.
Similarly, the second frame member 215 includes two stop members
240, each being positioned proximate the longitudinal ends of its
footer 235B and generally aligned with a corresponding lateral bar
220B or 225B.
[0035] The stop members 240 are configured to selectively engage
the supporting surface to prevent over rotation of the infant
support 100 while rocking longitudinally along the supporting
surface. FIG. 3 is close-up view of a stop member 240 in accordance
with an embodiment of the invention. As illustrated, the stop
member 240 includes a top surface 310 and a bottom surface 320. The
top surface 310 is generally contoured to the corner curvature of
its associated frame member 210, 215. The bottom surface 320, in
contrast, may be generally planar; consequently, the stop member
240 possesses a generally inclined structure having an interior end
330 with a height that is less than the height of an exterior end
340. In operation, the bottom surface 320 contacts the supporting
surface as the infant support 100 is rocked/rotated thereon,
preventing over rotation of the frame assembly 110 in the forward
or rearward direction.
[0036] The frame members 210, 215 are coupled to each other via a
hub assembly. Referring back to FIG. 2, the infant support device
100 includes a first or forward hub assembly 250 and a second or
rearward hub assembly 255. In one embodiment, the forward hub 250
may be generally coaxial with the rearward hub 255 along a
substantially horizontal axis. In an alternative embodiment, the
forward hub 250 may be vertically offset from the rearward hub 255.
The hub assemblies 250, 255 secure the frame members 210, 215 such
that the frame members intersect. Referring to FIG. 2, the hub
assemblies 250, 255 are coupled to the frame members 210, 215 in
such a way that the substantially similarly configured frame
members 210, 215 can collapse proximate to each other. As shown,
hub assembly 250 retains lateral bar 225A outside of lateral bar
225B and hub assembly 255 retains lateral bar 220A outside of
lateral bar 220B. This offset configuration allows the frame
members 210, 215 to be collapsed in a reduced profile and provides
overlapping frame portions for the support structure for the device
100.
[0037] FIGS. 4A and 4B show the structure of the forward hub 250 in
accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The forward hub 250
includes a first or exterior subassembly 405 and a second or
interior subassembly 410. The exterior subassembly 405 includes an
exterior or annular cap 415 that cooperates with a first or outer
housing 420 to capture the forward lateral bar 225A of the first
frame member 210. The second subassembly 410 further includes a
second or inner housing 425 that cooperates with an interior or
closed cap 430 to capture the forward lateral bar 225B of the
second frame member 215. Thus, the forward lateral bars 225A, 225B
are disposed in spaced relation along substantially parallel
planes. These substantially parallel planes are vertically
oriented. The rearward hub 255 includes a structure similar to that
of the forward hub 250, orienting the rearward lateral bars 220A,
220B in parallel, spaced relation.
[0038] As mentioned above, the hubs 250, 255 may position the frame
members 210, 215 such that the frame members are longitudinally
offset (seen in FIG. 6B) with respect to each other. That is, the
rearward lateral bar 220A of the first frame member 210 is captured
within the interior subassembly 410 of the rearward hub 255, while
the forward lateral bar 225A of the first frame member 210 is
captured within the exterior subassembly 405 of the forward hub
250. Conversely, the rearward lateral bar 220B of the second frame
member 215 is captured within the exterior subassembly 405 of the
rearward hub 255, while the forward lateral bar 225B of the second
frame member 215 is captured within the interior subassembly 410 of
the forward hub 250.
[0039] The first subassembly 405 may be rotatably coupled to the
second subassembly 410 (or vice versa) to permit the rotation of
each frame member 210, 215 with respect to each other.
Specifically, the first subassembly 405 rotates about the hub axis
such that it can be rotationally displaced with respect to the
second subassembly 410 (or vice versa). As a result, the frame
members 210, 215 may be pivoted to reorient the infant support 100
from a deployed or expanded configuration to a collapsed or stowed
configuration.
[0040] In addition, one or both of the hubs 250, 255 may further
include a lock mechanism that selectively secures the subassemblies
405, 410 with respect to each other, preventing their rotation and
securing the frame members 210, 215 in a predetermined orientation.
Referring to FIG. 4B, the components of an embodiment of the hub
assembly 250 is illustrated. Hub assembly 255 has similar
components to hub assembly 250.
[0041] Referring to FIG. 4B, the hub assembly 250 includes an
axially displaceable gear 440 and a biasing member 445 (e.g., a
spring) captured between the exterior housing 420 and the interior
housing 425. The exterior housing 420 is internally keyed such that
it accepts the gear in predetermined rotational positions. By way
of specific example, the gear 440 (which is generally coaxial with
the hub 250) may include a plurality of slots angularly spaced
along the gear. The exterior housing 420, moreover, may include a
plurality of angularly spaced teeth or ribs extending from the
interior surface of the housing. The slots of the gear 440 are
configured to receive the ribs of the exterior housing 420 when
aligned therewith. With this configuration, when the gear 440 is
oriented in a predetermined rotational position, the slots and ribs
align, resulting in the meshed engagement of the gear 440 and the
exterior housing 420.
[0042] The interior space of the interior housing 425, in contrast,
permits the rotation of the gear 440 when the gear 440 is
positioned therein. Thus, when the gear 440 is oriented within the
interior housing 425, rotation between the subassemblies 405, 410
is permitted.
[0043] The biasing member 445 biases the gear 440 into engagement
with the exterior housing 420. The annular cap 415 includes a
depressible actuator 435 operable to axially displace the gear from
its normal, engaged position (meshed with exterior housing 420), to
its disengaged position (i.e., positioned within interior housing
425). In operation, engaging the actuator 435 displaces the gear
440 from the exterior housing 420 and into the interior housing
425. This, in turn, releases the first subassembly 405, permitting
its rotation about the hub axis with respect to the second
subassembly 410. Once the ribs and slots align, the biasing member
445 drives the gear back into engagement with the exterior housing,
rotationally locking the subassemblies 405, 410.
[0044] Referring to FIG. 4B, the interior cap 430 includes an edge
431 that defines a notch 433 that receives forward lateral bar
225B. The interior housing 425 includes an edge 427 that defines a
notch 429 that receives forward lateral bar 225B. Thus, the forward
lateral bar 225B is captured between the interior cap 430 and the
interior housing 425. Similarly, the annular cap 415 has an edge
417 that defines a notch 419 that receives forward lateral bar 225A
and the exterior housing 420 has an edge 421 that defines a notch
423 that receives forward lateral bar 225A. Thus, the forward
lateral bar 225A is captured between the annular cap 415 and the
exterior housing 420.
[0045] With the above-described configuration, the frame assembly
110 may be selectively rotated between a deployed configuration to
a stowed configuration. As illustrated in FIG. 5, in the deployed
configuration, the subassemblies 405, 410 position the upper
portions of the frame members 210, 215 (i.e., the portions above
the hub assemblies 250 and 255) at a predetermined deployment angle
A with respect to each other (e.g., 45.degree.). Engaging or
depressing the actuator 435 disengages the lock to release the
subassemblies 405, 410 of the hubs assemblies 250, 255, permitting
the rotation of the first frame member 210 and/or the second frame
member 215.
[0046] Specifically, applying a force to the headers 230A, 230B
(along the directions of arrows R) rotates the first frame member
210 toward the second frame member 215. The frame members 210, 215
are rotated until the stowed configuration is achieved, such as the
configuration illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B. Referring to FIGS. 6A
and 6B, which are end and side views, the frame members 210, 215
are placed proximate to each other in this collapsed or stowed
configuration.
[0047] The seat or seat assembly 120 receives and supports an
infant therein. The seat 120 may possess a generally elongated
shape formed to hold an infant when the infant support 100 is in
its deployed configuration. The seat 120 is suspended from the
frame assembly 110. Specifically, the seat 120 is supported by the
headers 230A, 230B of the frame members 210 and 215, respectively,
such that the longitudinal axis of the seat 120 is oriented
substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the frame
assembly 110. That is, the longitudinal axis of seat 120 is
oriented generally parallel to the rocking axis so that a child
positioned in the receptacle and facing forward will rock from
front-to-back in the manner of a rocking chair.
[0048] Referring to FIG. 7A, the seat 120 includes a first
longitudinal or side wall 710 and a second longitudinal or side
wall 715 opposite to the first side wall 710. As illustrated, the
first side wall 710 is coupled to the header 230A of first frame
member 210 and the second side wall 715 is coupled to the header
230B of the second frame member 215. The side walls 710, 715 are
coupled to a bottom wall or body 720. Specifically, the first side
wall 710 extends distally (downward) from the header 230A of the
first frame member 210 and connects to the first longitudinal edge
725 of the bottom wall 720 (e.g., via stitching). Similarly the
second side wall 715 extends distally from the header 230B of the
second frame member 215 and connects to second longitudinal edge
730 of the bottom wall 720. Each of the side walls 710 and 715 may
include some mesh material.
[0049] The bottom wall 720 is defined by a first or forward
transverse end 735 and an opposed second or rearward transverse end
740, each extending between longitudinal edges 725, 730. The bottom
wall 720 is formed by a first or trunk portion or torso portion 745
operable to support the trunk or torso of an infant and a second or
foot portion 750 operable to support the legs and/or feet of the
infant.
[0050] The seat 120 is contoured to suspend an infant in a
predetermined orientation. In one embodiment, the seat 120
possesses an L-shaped sling structure (when viewed from the side),
with the trunk or torso portion 745 being oriented at an acute
angle with respect to the foot portion 750. In other embodiments,
the angle between the trunk or torso portion 745 and the foot
portion 750 can vary.
[0051] As shown in FIG. 7B, the bottom wall 720 of the seat 120
slopes downward (away from the headers 230A, 230B) as it extends
longitudinally along the frame assembly 110 (from back to front).
Specifically, the trunk portion 745 of the bottom wall 720 slopes
downward a predetermined distance h1 to a lowermost point 755. By
way of example, the trunk portion 745 may possess an incline of
approximately 25.degree.-35.degree. (e.g., about 30.degree.). The
foot portion 750 of the bottom wall 720 slopes upward (toward the
headers 230A, 230B) a predetermined distance h2 from point 755 such
that the first/forward transverse end 735 of the bottom wall 720 is
located at approximately the same height as the second/rearward
transverse end 740 of the bottom wall.
[0052] This trunk portion 745 possesses a length (longitudinal
dimension) that is greater than the length (longitudinal dimension)
of the foot portion 750. With this described configuration, the
bottom wall 720 possesses a lowermost point 755 that is
longitudinally offset along the seat. That is, the lowermost point
755 is located closer to the first/forward transverse end 735 (and,
as such, the forward hub 250) than to the second/rearward
transverse end 740. This difference in length provides greater
support area for the trunk or torso of an infant and less for the
legs of the infant, which often may be folded while resting or
sleeping.
[0053] Referring to FIG. 7B, the device 100 includes fabric
portions 960 and 970 that are coupled to the frame members 210 and
215. Fabric portion 960 has two sleeve portions that are configured
to receive lateral bars 225A and 225B. The fabric portion 960
covers the area between lateral bars 225A and 225B when the frame
assembly 110 is in its deployed configuration, thereby preventing
the insertion of any object or body part in the area and reducing
the likelihood of an pinching or capturing of such an object or
body part. Similarly, fabric portion 970 has two sleeve portions
that are configured to receive lateral bars 220A and 220B. The
fabric portion 970 covers the area between lateral bars 220A and
220B when the frame assembly 110 is in its deployed
configuration.
[0054] The seat 120 may be configured to collapse or fold when the
frame assembly is reconfigured from its deployed/open configuration
(FIG. 1) to its collapsed/stowed configuration. In a preferred
embodiment, this is accomplished by forming the walls 710, 715, 720
of the seat 120 individually or collectively out of
flexible/pliable softgoods material (e.g., natural or synthetic
fabrics). By way of specific example, the seat 120 may be formed of
fabric and/or mesh sheets, with the side walls 710, 715 folded
around the headers 230A, 230B and secured releasably thereto by
releasable fasteners (e.g., snap fasteners) or secured permanently
thereto (e.g., via sewing). With this configuration, the seat 120
is suspended from the headers 230A, 230B, providing a hammock or
sling effect.
[0055] The seat 120 may further include a substantially rigid or
resilient support brace or insert member configured to provide
support for an infant and/or to maintain the side walls 710, 715 in
spaced relation when an infant is positioned on the seat 120. The
support brace 800 may possess any shape and dimensions suitable for
its described purpose (e.g., to maintain the orientation and
position of an infant placed in the seat 120). By way of example,
the support brace 800 may possess a generally oval or elliptical
shape, and may be generally contoured to the slope of the back wall
portion 745 of the bottom wall 720. The brace 800 may possess a
width substantially equal to that of the back wall portion 745.
Stated another way, the transverse dimension of the support brace
may be substantially equal to the transverse dimension of the trunk
portion 745 of the bottom wall 720 (measured between longitudinal
edges 725, 730). Similarly, the longitudinal dimension of the brace
800 may be substantially equal to the longitudinal dimension of the
back wall 745, extending from second/rearward transverse edge 740
to the lowermost point 755.
[0056] Referring to FIG. 8A, the brace 800 may be in the form of a
band having an exterior edge 810 and an interior edge 820 that
defines a central opening 830. The band functions as a frame for
the trunk portion 745 of the bottom wall 720, with the infant being
positioned within the opening 830. In one embodiment, the brace 800
may have a curved configuration when viewed from the side. In
another embodiment, the brace 800 may be substantially planar.
[0057] Referring to FIG. 8B, the brace 800 may be in the form of a
generally continuous, contoured planar member including a central
panel 850 in communication with upward-sloping (curved) side walls
860A, 860B running longitudinally along the panel, and an
upward-sloping transverse bottom wall 870 running along the forward
transverse end of the panel. The central panel 850 may include one
or more apertures 880 configured to provide airflow with the
apertures 880 being located beneath the trunk or torso of the
infant. With this configuration, the brace 800 provides a
contoured, rigid support for an infant placed within the seat
120.
[0058] The support brace 800 may be affixed to the seat 120 via an
internal receptacle formed into the bottom wall 720 by multiple
pieces of fabric. By way of example, the trunk portion 745 of the
bottom wall 720 may define a pocket or sleeve that receives the
support brace 800. That is, the trunk portion 745 may include a
first fabric member and a second fabric member connected to the
first fabric member so as to define a cavity therebetween. The
cavity possesses dimensions sufficient to receive the support brace
800 (e.g., the cavity may possess dimensions slightly larger than
the dimensions of the support brace). Referring to FIG. 8C, the
support brace 800 is illustrated in position within the seat
120.
[0059] The support brace 800 may be permanently secured within the
receptacle. In one embodiment, the receptacle may be sewn closed to
retain the support brace 800 therein. In another embodiment, the
support brace 800 may be coupled directly to the fabric by
stitching or some other mechanism or technique. Alternatively, the
support brace 800 may releasably secured within the receptacle to
permit its selective insertion into and removal from the seat 120.
For example, the trunk portion 745 of the bottom wall 720 may
include an opening selectively secured by snaps, buttons, and/or a
zipper.
[0060] The foot portion 750 of the bottom wall 720 preferably does
not include a support brace 800. It should be understood, however,
that the foot portion 750 may be provided with a brace having a
structure similar to the support brace described above.
[0061] In operation, an infant is placed within the seat such that
the back of the infant rests against (is supported by) the trunk
portion 745 of the bottom wall 720 and the feet are oriented within
foot portion 750 of the bottom wall. In this orientation, the
infant is in a seated, but reclined position, facing the forward
hub 250. Placing the infant face down, or placing the trunk of the
infant within the foot portion of the bottom wall is not preferred,
since injury to the infant may result.
[0062] The folding of the device is explained with reference to
FIGS. 1 and 9. Initially, the infant support 100 begins in its
deployed configuration (FIG. 1). The actuator 435 of each hub
assembly 250, 255 is engaged, releasing the subassemblies 405, 410
of the hub assemblies 250, 255 and permitting relative rotation of
the frame members 210, 215 as described above. The headers 230A,
230B are rotated inward until the frame members 210, 215 are
oriented in their stowed configuration (e.g., when the headers
230A, 230B are oriented generally parallel to each other). In this
position, the lock mechanism is engaged, securing the frame members
210, 215 in their stowed position as described above.
[0063] The brace 800 may be formed from resilient or substantially
rigid materials. By way of example, the brace may be formed from
plastic. The brace 800, moreover, may possess a unitary
(continuous/one-piece) structure or may be formed from multiple
pieces connected together.
[0064] Referring to FIG. 7A, the seat 120 may include a strap
assembly (as illustrated) and other restraint mechanisms to secure
the infant within the seat. In this embodiment, the strap assembly
1100 may include strap portions 1110, 1112, 1114, and 1116 that are
coupled together using buckles 1120 and 1122 and a main strap
portion 1130 with a coupling portion 1132. The strap portions 1110,
1112, 1114, 1116 and 1130 may be inserted through openings in the
softgoods or coupled to the upper surface of the softgoods such as
by sewing or stitching or other coupling method or technique. In an
alternative embodiment, only two strap portions are used with the
seat 120.
[0065] Referring to FIGS. 10-15, the mounting or coupling of a
softgoods portion to the frame assembly 110 of device 100 is
illustrated. The softgoods may be used to provide an additional
layer of support for the infant. Referring to FIG. 10, a softgoods
or padded portion 900 is removably coupled to the frame assembly
110. As a result, the softgoods 900 can be easily removed from the
frame assembly 110 and washed and cleaned. In this embodiment, the
softgoods 900 has several coupling portions 910, 920, 930, and 940
that are located at spaced apart positions around the softgoods
900. Each of the coupling portions 910, 920, 930, and 940 is
similarly configured and therefore the following description
relating to coupling portion 910 applies to the other coupling
portions 920, 930, and 940.
[0066] Coupling portion 910 includes an edge 912 formed in the body
902 of the softgoods 900. The edge 912 defines and opening 914 that
extends through the body 902. A binding or layer of fabric 916 (see
FIG. 15) is sewn around the edge 912 to prevent the edge 912 from
unraveling. The softgoods 900 includes coupling portions 920, 930,
and 940 that are similarly configured with openings 924, 934, and
944, respectively.
[0067] The frame assembly 110 includes a mounting assembly 1000
that includes several mounting components 1010, 1020, 1030, and
1040 (shown throughout FIGS. 10-15). The mounting components 1010,
1020, 1030, and 1040 are located on the headers 230A, 230B in
locations that correspond to the coupling portions 910, 920, 930,
and 940 of the softgoods 900. In particular, mounting components
1010, 1020, 1030, and 1040 are aligned with coupling portions 910,
920, 930, and 940, respectively.
[0068] Referring to FIG. 11, a close-up view of mounting component
1010 and header 230A is shown. The seat 120 includes a fabric
portion 948 that is coupled to the headers 230A, 230B. On both
sides of the fabric portion 948, there is a sleeve 950 that defines
a channel 952 and is coupled to the fabric portion 948 at end 954.
The sleeve 950 is configured to be slid onto one of the headers
230A, 230B. The mounting component 1010 is positioned proximate to
the sleeve 950 and then coupled to the header 230A using a
connector. The other mounting components 1020, 1030, and 1040 are
similarly coupled to the corresponding headers 230A, 230B via
connectors.
[0069] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, a perspective view and an end
view of mounting component 1010 are illustrated, respectively. In
this embodiment, mounting component 1010 is molded plastic and has
a body portion 1050 with ends 1052 and 1054 and sides 1053 and
1055. The body portion 1050 has a curved configuration that matches
the configuration of the portion of the frame to which the mounting
portion 1010 is coupled. Integrally formed with the body portion
1050 are projections 1060 and 1062. The projections 1060 and 1062
have ends 1064 and 1066, respectively, and extend in opposite
directions from each other. In another embodiment, the projections
1060 and 1062 can extend from the sides 1053 and 1055 of the body
portion 1050 instead of the ends 1052 and 1054.
[0070] The body portion 1050 includes a boss 1056 defining an
opening 1058 through which a connector 1059 (such as a screw) is
inserted to couple the mounting component 1050 to the frame
assembly 110. The body portion 1050 has an inner surface 1070 that
defines a receptacle 1072 and is placed in contact with the header
230A or fabric (such as sleeve 950) mounted on the header 230A. The
body portion 1050 also has an outer surface 1074 that can be
engaged by a portion of the softgoods 900.
[0071] Referring to FIG. 14, in this embodiment, the projections
1060 and 1062 define areas or regions 1067 and 1068, respectively.
To retain the softgoods 900 on the mounting component 1010, the
length of the opening 914 (distance "d2") is less than the length
of the mounting component 1010 as measured from the ends 1064 and
1066 of the projections 1060 and 1062 (distance "d1"). When the
softgoods or fabric portion 900 is moved so that the coupling
portion 910 is aligned with the mounting component 1010, the
opening 914 is manipulated so that the projections 1060 and 1062
extend therethrough and the edge 912 is located beneath the
projections 1060 and 1062 and in areas 1067 and 1068. Referring to
FIG. 15, the projections 1082 and 1084 extending from a body
portion 1080 of mounting component 1020 extend over the binding
916, thereby coupling the softgoods 900 to the mounting component
1020 and the frame assembly 110.
[0072] The mounting assembly 1000 facilitates the coupling and
decoupling of the softgoods 900 from the frame assembly 110. In
various embodiments, the quantity of mounting components used with
a particular frame can vary. For example, in one embodiment, only
one mounting component may be included on each side of a frame. In
another embodiment, the mounting components may be spaced
relatively equally about a substantially circular frame. In another
embodiment, each mounting component may include three or four
projections extending from a body portion. Thus, the mounting
assembly including mounting components can be used to couple or
mount a softgoods or fabric portion to a frame having any shape or
configuration and used for any type of infant support
structure.
[0073] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, an alternative embodiment of
an infant support device or structure is illustrated. In this
embodiment, the device or structure 1200 includes a frame assembly
1210 that includes an infant seat assembly or receptacle 1220 with
a head stop or padded portion 1222 that can provide additional
support and/or cushioning for an infant. In this embodiment, the
frame assembly 1210 includes a first frame member 1230 and a second
frame member 1235. The frame members 1230, 1235 are coupled
together via hubs or hub assemblies 1260 and 1270 which facilitate
the movement or pivoting of the frame members 1230, 1235 relative
to each other, thereby allowing the frame assembly 1210 to be
deployed or collapsed. The frame members 1230, 1235 are
substantially similar to frame members 210, 215 described above
with the exception of the upper crossbars or headers 1240 and
1250.
[0074] As discussed above, headers 230A and 230B of frame assembly
110 have end portions 230C, 230D and 230E, 230F, respectively, that
have the same length. The header 1240 has end portions 1242 and
1244 that have different lengths. Similarly, header 1250 has end
portions 1252 and 1254 that have different lengths. Preferably, the
lengths of end portions 1242 and 1252 are the same or substantially
the same and the lengths of end portions 1244 and 1254 are the same
or substantially the same. The longer end portions 1244 and 1254
result in the upper rear corners 1243 and 1253 of the headers 1240
and 1250 being a greater distance from the hub assembly 1270 than
the upper front corners 1241 and 1251 of the headers 1240 and 1250
are spaced from the hub assembly 1260.
[0075] Referring to FIG. 17, the upper front corners 1241 and 1251
are spaced at a distance "d5" from hub assembly 1260 and upper rear
corners 1243 and 1253 are spaced at a distance "d6" from hub
assembly 1270. Distance "d6" is greater than distance "d5" and the
frame assembly 1210 has a tapered or sloped configuration from the
rear 1211 of the frame assembly 1210 to the front 1213 of the frame
assembly 1210. This sloped configuration results in the rear 1211
being higher than the front 1213 relative to a support surface, and
the seat portion 1220 having a higher upper end which provides
additional support length for an infant and increases the angle of
inclination of the trunk or torso portion of the seat portion 1220
to position an infant in a more upright orientation.
[0076] The seat portion 1220 may be substantially similar to the
infant seat 120 as described above, and with the addition of the
padded portion 1222. Accordingly, receptacle 1220 is suspended from
the headers 1240 and 1250, providing a hammock or sling effect. The
mounting or coupling of a softgoods portion to the frame assembly
1210 may be similar to that described above and shown in FIG. 15.
The softgoods may be used to provide an additional layer of support
for the infant.
[0077] Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, a softgoods or padded portion
1900 is removably coupled to the frame assembly 1210. As a result,
the softgoods 1900 can be easily removed from the frame assembly
1210 and washed and cleaned. The softgoods 1900 includes several
coupling portions 1910, 1920, 1930, and 1940 that are located at
spaced apart positions around the softgoods 1900. In one
embodiment, the coupling portions 1920 and 1930 may be
substantially the same as coupling portions 920 and 930, and the
coupling portions 1910 and 1940 may be configured as another type
of fastener member. For example, coupling portions 1910 and 1940
may be configured as side release buckle components, cam or spring
buckles, snaps, hook and loop fastener material, or some other
fastening mechanism.
[0078] The frame assembly 1210 includes a mounting assembly that
includes mounting components located on headers 1240 and 1250 in
locations that correspond to the coupling portions 1920 and 1930.
For example, headers 1240 and 1250 may include mounting components
1280, 1285, respectively, as shown in FIGS. 16, 18 and 19. Each of
mounting components 1280, 1285 has a configuration substantially
similar to the mounting component 1010, as described above.
Accordingly, coupling portions 1930, 1920 may be aligned with and
releasably attached to mounting components 1280, 1285,
respectively.
[0079] The seat portion 1220 may include mounting components that
align with the coupling portions 1910 and 1940. For example,
mounting components 1290, 1295 may extend outwardly from an
underside 1220a and are aligned with coupling portions 1910, 1940
when softgoods 1900 is disposed on the seat portion 1220, as shown
in FIGS. 18 and 19. For example, the mounting components 1290, 1295
may be configured as corresponding side release buckle components
connected to the seat portion 1220 via webbing, or webbing
releasably securable to cam or spring buckles, or associated hook
and loop fastener material, or the like.
[0080] The mounting assembly facilitates the coupling and
decoupling of the softgoods 1900 from the frame assembly 1210. In
various embodiments, the quantity of coupling portions and
associated mounting components used with a particular frame can
vary. Moreover, all mounting components may be identically
configured, or have different configurations. Thus, the mounting
assembly including mounting components can be used to couple or
mount a softgoods or fabric portion to a frame having any shape or
configuration and used for any type of infant support
structure.
[0081] In an alternative embodiment, the lengths of the lateral
bars at one end of the frame assembly (such as the rear end) can be
longer than the lateral bars at the other end of the frame assembly
(such as the front end). This difference in length would enable the
end portions of the headers to have the same length, but the upper
corners of the headers at the rear of the frame assembly can be
spaced further from the rear hub assembly than the front hub
assembly, thereby giving the headers and the frame assembly a
sloped or tapered configuration from rear to front.
[0082] While the invention has been described in detail and with
reference to specific embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to
one skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can
be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope
thereof. For example, the infant support may be formed of any
suitable materials. Each hub 250, 255 may include a locking
mechanism configured to selectively lock the subassemblies.
Alternatively, only one hub 250, 255 may include the locking
mechanism. The locking mechanism may be keyed to lock the hubs 250,
255 in only the deployed and stowed configurations. Alternatively,
the locking mechanism may be keyed to permit locking of the hubs at
orientations falling in between the deployed and stowed
configurations. Other mechanisms providing for the rotation and
locking of the frames may be utilized.
[0083] Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover the
modifications and variations of this invention that come within the
scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. It is to be
understood that terms such as "left", "right" "top", "bottom",
"front", "rear", "side", "height", "length", "width", "upper",
"lower", "interior", "exterior", "inner", "outer" and the like as
may be used herein, merely describe points of reference and do not
limit the present invention to any particular orientation or
configuration.
* * * * *