U.S. patent application number 13/401649 was filed with the patent office on 2013-08-22 for telescoping crib.
This patent application is currently assigned to LaJobi, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Adam Petrucci. Invention is credited to Adam Petrucci.
Application Number | 20130212804 13/401649 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48981139 |
Filed Date | 2013-08-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130212804 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Petrucci; Adam |
August 22, 2013 |
Telescoping Crib
Abstract
A crib includes a configurable side with an adjustable height.
In a first mode of operation, the configurable side extends to a
height that prevents a child from climbing over the side. In a
second mode of operation, the configurable side retracts to a lower
height that provides a person with easier access into the crib to
attend to the child. In general, the configurable side enables
multiple modes of operation that provide convenient access while
maintaining safety.
Inventors: |
Petrucci; Adam; (East
Brunswick, NJ) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Petrucci; Adam |
East Brunswick |
NJ |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
LaJobi, Inc.
Cranbury
NJ
|
Family ID: |
48981139 |
Appl. No.: |
13/401649 |
Filed: |
February 21, 2012 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
5/100 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47D 7/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
5/100 |
International
Class: |
A47D 7/02 20060101
A47D007/02 |
Claims
1. A crib assembly comprising: an upper moveable section having a
first upper transverse rail, a second upper transverse rail, and a
plurality of upper vertical supports, the first upper transverse
rail being disposed above the second upper transverse rail, the
plurality of upper vertical supports spanning a distance between
the first upper transverse rail and the second upper transverse
rail; a lower fixed section having a first lower transverse rail, a
second lower transverse rail, and a plurality of lower vertical
supports, the first lower transverse rail being disposed above the
second lower transverse rail, the plurality of lower vertical
supports spanning a distance between the first lower transverse
rail and the second lower transverse rail; and a holding mechanism
configured to releaseably hold the upper moveable section in a
position relative to the lower fixed section; wherein the second
upper transverse rail is disposed between the first lower
transverse rail and the second lower transverse rail, the lower
vertical supports are guided through the second upper transverse
rail by a plurality of apertures within the second upper transverse
rail, the first lower transverse rail is disposed between the first
upper transverse rail and the second upper transverse rail, and the
upper vertical supports are guided through the first lower
transverse rail by a plurality of apertures within the first lower
transverse rail.
2. The crib assembly of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the
holding mechanism is disposed on one of the lower vertical supports
and engages the upper moveable section.
3. The crib assembly of claim 1, further comprising four corner
posts wherein at least a portion of the holding mechanism is
disposed on one of the corner posts and engages the upper moveable
section.
4. The crib assembly of claim 1, further comprising a second
holding mechanism configured to releaseably hold the upper moveable
section in a position relative to the lower fixed section.
5. The crib assembly of claim 1, wherein the holding mechanism
includes a latch having an aperture that receives a fastener, the
fastener fastening the latch to the upper moveable section, and the
fastener interferes with operation of the latch when the fastener
is not fully positioned against the latch.
6. The crib assembly of claim 1, wherein the upper moveable section
and the lower fixed section are substantially formed from wood.
7. A crib assembly comprising: a lower fixed section having a first
lower transverse rail, a second lower transverse rail, and a
plurality of lower vertical supports, the plurality of lower
vertical supports spanning a distance between the first lower
transverse rail and the second lower transverse rail; an upper
moveable section having an upper transverse rail and a plurality of
upper vertical supports, the plurality of upper vertical supports
extending downward from the upper transverse rail to engage the
lower fixed section; and a holding mechanism configured to
releaseably hold the upper moveable section in a position relative
to the lower fixed section; wherein the first lower transverse rail
is disposed between the upper transverse rail and the second lower
transverse rail.
8. The crib assembly of claim 7, wherein the first lower transverse
rail includes a plurality of apertures, the upper vertical supports
being guided through the first lower transverse rail by a plurality
of apertures.
9. The crib assembly of claim 7, wherein the lower vertical
supports comprise a cavity configured to telescopingly receive the
upper vertical supports and the upper vertical supports are
slidably received therein.
10. The crib assembly of claim 7, wherein at least a portion of the
holding mechanism is disposed on one of the lower vertical supports
and engages the upper moveable section.
11. The crib assembly of claim 7, further comprising four corner
posts wherein at least a portion of the holding mechanism is
disposed on one of the corner posts and engages the upper moveable
section.
12. The crib assembly of claim 7, further comprising a second
holding mechanism configured to releaseably hold the upper moveable
section in a position relative to the lower fixed section.
13. The crib assembly of claim 7, wherein the holding mechanism
includes a latch having an aperture that receives a fastener, the
fastener fastening the latch to the upper moveable section, and the
fastener interferes with operation of the latch when the fastener
is not fully positioned against the latch.
14. The crib assembly of claim 7, wherein the upper moveable
section and the lower fixed section are substantially formed from
wood.
15. A crib assembly comprising: an upper moveable section having a
first upper transverse rail, a second upper transverse rail, and a
vertical panel therebetween; a lower fixed section having a lower
transverse rail and a plurality of vertical supports extending
therefrom and engaging the upper moveable section; and a holding
mechanism configured to releaseably hold the upper moveable section
in a position relative to the lower fixed section; wherein the
second upper transverse rail is disposed between the first upper
transverse rail and the lower transverse rail and the plurality of
vertical supports are guided through the second upper transverse
rail by a plurality of apertures within the second upper transverse
rail.
16. The crib assembly of claim 15, further comprising a second
vertical panel opposite the vertical panel and spanning a distance
between the first upper transverse rail and the second upper
transverse rail, wherein the first upper transverse rail, the
second upper transverse rail, the vertical panel, and the second
vertical panel define a cavity.
17. The crib assembly of claim 15, wherein at least a portion of
the holding mechanism is disposed on one of the lower vertical
supports and engages the upper moveable section.
18. The crib assembly of claim 15, further comprising four corner
posts wherein at least a portion of the holding mechanism is
disposed on one of the corner posts and engages the upper moveable
section.
19. The crib assembly of claim 15, further comprising a second
holding mechanism configured to releaseably hold the upper moveable
section in a position relative to the lower fixed section.
20. The crib assembly of claim 15, wherein the holding mechanism
includes a latch having an aperture that receives a fastener, the
fastener fastening the latch to the upper moveable section, and the
fastener interferes with operation of the latch when the fastener
is not fully positioned against the latch.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to furniture, and
more particularly, to systems and methods for assembling a crib
having a moveable side that enables easier access into the
crib.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Different types of furniture are specially designed for use
with babies and young children. As is known, a crib is a bed with
high sides, e.g., barred or latticed sides, for a baby or young
child. The sides are sufficiently high to prevent the child from
climbing over the sides and falling from the crib. The height of
these sides, however, may make it more difficult for a person to
reach into the crib and attend to the child.
[0003] One method to lower the height of the side is to use a drop
side rail. Incorrect assembly of the drop side rail by users has
led to problems with children partially separating or disassembling
the drop side rail. This partial disassembly or separation has
resulted in a body part of the child getting caught in the drop
side rail, causing injury to the child. This has led to proposed
regulations that would have required all sides to be a
fixed-height.
SUMMARY
[0004] According to aspects of the present disclosure, a crib
includes a configurable side with an adjustable height. In a first
mode of operation, the configurable side extends to a height that
prevents a child from climbing over the side. In a second mode of
operation, the configurable side retracts to a lower height that
provides a person with easier access into the crib to attend to the
child. In general, the configurable side enables multiple modes of
operation that provide convenient access while maintaining
safety.
[0005] According to one embodiment, a crib assembly includes an
upper moveable section with a first upper transverse rail, a second
upper transverse rail, and a plurality of upper vertical supports.
The upper transverse rail is disposed above the second upper
transverse rail. The plurality of upper vertical supports span a
distance between the first upper transverse rail and the second
upper transverse rail. The assembly also includes a lower fixed
section with a first lower transverse rail, a second lower
transverse rail, and a plurality of lower vertical supports. The
first lower transverse rail is disposed above the second lower
transverse rail. The plurality of lower vertical supports spans a
distance between the first lower transverse rail and the second
lower transverse rail. The crib assembly further includes a holding
mechanism that is configured to releaseably hold the upper moveable
section in a position relative to the lower fixed section. The
second upper transverse rail is disposed between the first lower
transverse rail and the second lower transverse rail. The lower
vertical supports are guided through the second upper transverse
rail by a plurality of apertures within the second upper transverse
rail. The first lower transverse rail is disposed between the first
upper transverse rail and the second upper transverse rail. The
upper vertical supports are guided through the first lower
transverse rail by a plurality of apertures within the first lower
transverse rail.
[0006] According to another embodiment, a crib assembly includes a
lower fixed section with a first lower transverse rail, a second
lower transverse rail, and a plurality of lower vertical supports.
The plurality of lower vertical supports spans a distance between
the first lower transverse rail and the second lower transverse
rail. The crib assembly also includes an upper moveable section
with an upper transverse rail and a plurality of upper vertical
supports. The plurality of upper vertical supports extends downward
from the upper transverse rail to engage the lower fixed section.
The crib assembly also includes a holding mechanism configured to
releaseably hold the upper moveable section in a position relative
to the lower fixed section. The first lower transverse rail is
disposed between the upper transverse rail and the second lower
transverse rail.
[0007] According to yet another embodiment, a crib assembly
includes an upper moveable section having a first upper transverse
rail, a second upper transverse rail, and a vertical panel. The
vertical panel spans a distance between the first upper transverse
rail and the second upper transverse rail. The crib assembly also
includes a lower fixed section with a lower transverse rail and a
plurality of vertical supports. The plurality of vertical supports
extends from the lower transverse rail and engages the upper
moveable section. The crib assembly also includes a holding
mechanism configured to releaseably hold the upper moveable section
in a position relative to the lower fixed section. The second upper
transverse rail is disposed between the first upper transverse rail
and the lower transverse rail by a plurality of apertures within
the second upper transverse rail. Additionally, the crib assembly
can also include a second vertical panel. The crib assembly can
also include a cavity defined by the first transverse rail, the
second transverse rail, the vertical panel, and the second vertical
panel.
[0008] Additional aspects of the invention will be apparent to
those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the detailed
description of various embodiments, which is made with reference to
the drawings, a brief description of which is provided below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1A illustrates an example crib assembly in a first mode
of operation according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[0010] FIG. 1B illustrates the example crib assembly of FIG. 1A in
a second mode of operation according to aspects of the present
disclosure.
[0011] FIG. 2A illustrates a configurable side that is employed in
the example crib assembly of FIG. 1A according to aspects of the
present disclosure.
[0012] FIG. 2B illustrates the configurable side of FIG. 2A in a
second mode of operation according to aspects of the present
disclosure.
[0013] FIG. 3 illustrates an example latch according to aspects of
the present disclosure.
[0014] FIG. 4 illustrates an example holding mechanism in
conjunction with an alternative paneled design to the upper
moveable section shown in FIGS. 1A-B.
[0015] FIG. 5 illustrates another example holding mechanism in
conjunction with the paneled upper moveable section shown in FIGS.
1A-B with the front panel removed.
[0016] FIG. 6 illustrates yet another example holding mechanism in
conjunction with the paneled upper moveable section shown in FIGS.
1A-B with the front panel removed.
[0017] FIG. 7 illustrates yet another example holding mechanism in
conjunction with the paneled upper moveable section shown in FIGS.
1A-B with the front panel removed.
[0018] FIG. 8 illustrates an example holding element in conjunction
with the paneled upper moveable section shown in FIGS. 1A-B with
the front panel removed.
[0019] FIG. 9A illustrates a crib assembly with a configurable side
in a first mode of operation according to aspects of the present
disclosure.
[0020] FIG. 9B illustrates the crib assembly of FIG. 9A with the
configurable side in a second mode of operation according to
aspects of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] According to aspects of the present disclosure, a crib
includes a configurable side with an adjustable height. In a first
mode of operation, the configurable side extends to a height that
prevents a child from climbing over the side. In a second mode of
operation, the configurable side retracts to a lower height that
provides a person with easier access into the crib to attend to the
child. In general, the configurable side enables multiple modes of
operation that provide convenient access while maintaining
safety.
[0022] Referring to FIGS. 1A-B, an example crib assembly 100
includes a right side 102, a left side 104, a rear side 106, and a
configurable (front) side 108, the combination of which define a
substantially rectangular perimeter. In some embodiments, for
example, the rear side 106 may define a headboard, while the
configurable side 108 may define a footboard. The right side 102 is
spaced a distance from, and is substantially parallel to, the left
side 104. Correspondingly, the rear side 106 is spaced a distance
from, and is substantially parallel to, the configurable side 108.
A mattress support (not shown) is disposed within the rectangular
perimeter and a mattress (not shown) is placed on the mattress
support. Accordingly, a child may be placed within the rectangular
perimeter of the crib assembly 100.
[0023] As described herein, the structures of the crib assembly 100
may be formed from any combination of suitable materials,
including, but not limited to, wood, plastic, metal, and the like.
In addition, the structures may be assembled according to any
combination of fastening techniques, including, but not limited to,
screws, nuts and bolts, dowels, nails, adhesives, pegs, rods,
rivets, supporting brackets and plates, interlocking methods,
press-fit connections, and the like. Additionally, any or all of
the structures of the crib assembly 100 may include features
consistent with a particular aesthetic design.
[0024] The right side 102, the left side 104, and the rear side 106
maintain fixed heights that are sufficient to prevent the child
from easily climbing over these sides. According to aspects of the
present disclosure described above, however, the configurable side
108 has an adjustable height. FIG. 1A illustrates the crib assembly
100 in a first mode of operation where the configurable side 108 is
in an extended position. When the crib assembly 100 is in the first
mode of operation, the configurable side 108 has a height that is
sufficient to prevent the child from easily climbing out of the
crib. Meanwhile, FIG. 1B illustrates the crib assembly 100 in a
second mode of operation where the configurable side 108 is in a
retracted position. The height of the configurable side 108
corresponding to the retracted position is lower than the height
corresponding to the extended position. When the crib assembly 100
is in the second mode of operation, a person can reach over the
configurable side 108 for easier access into the crib. When such
access is no longer required, the configurable side 108 may be
returned to the extended position to keep the child safely inside
the crib assembly 100.
[0025] The right side 102 is defined by two spaced posts 110a, b
extending upwardly from a floor surface. The right side 102
includes two transverse supports 116a, b that extend horizontally
between the posts 110a, b. A plurality of vertical bars 114,
substantially parallel to the posts 110a, b, extend between the
transverse supports 116a, b. The plurality of vertical bars 114 may
be spaced from each other by a substantially equal distance. In
alternative embodiments, a substantially solid planar surface, a
lattice, or other structure(s) may extend between the posts 110a, b
to define the right side 102.
[0026] The left side 104 is defined by two spaced posts 110c, d
extending upwardly from a floor surface. The left side 104 includes
two transverse supports 122a, b that extend horizontally between
the posts 110c, d. A plurality of vertical bars 120, substantially
parallel to the posts 110c, d, extend between the transverse
supports 122a, b. The plurality of vertical bars 120 may be spaced
from each other by a substantially equal distance. In alternative
embodiments, a substantially solid planar surface, a lattice, or
other structure(s) may extend between the posts 110a, b to define
the left side 104.
[0027] The rear side 106 is defined by the posts 110a, d. The rear
side 106 includes two transverse supports 130a, b that extend
horizontally between the posts 110a, d. A plurality of vertical
bars 128, substantially parallel to the posts 110a, d, extend
between the transverse supports 130a, b. The plurality of vertical
bars 128 may be spaced from each other by a substantially equal
distance. In alternative embodiments, a substantially solid planar
surface, a lattice, or other structures may extend between the
posts 110a, d to define the rear side 106.
[0028] The configurable side 108 includes a lower fixed section
132, an upper moveable section 134, and a holding mechanism 136.
The upper moveable section 134 is disposed in the same vertical
plane as the lower fixed section 132 and is slidably connected to
the posts 110b, c. The upper moveable section 134 moves relative to
the lower fixed section 132 to allow the configurable side 108 to
move between the extended position and the retracted position. The
holding mechanism 136 holds the upper moveable section 134 at the
corresponding positions relative to the lower fixed section
132.
[0029] The upper moveable section 134 includes a first vertical
panel 148 and a second vertical panel 150 disposed on back and
front sides of the upper moveable section 134, respectively. The
panels 148, 150 protect both the child and the operator from
pinching and other hazards by covering structures of the
configurable side 108 that move relative to each other.
Additionally, the panels 148, 150 prevent the child from using
structures between the panels 148, 150 to climb out of the crib
assembly 100. The panels 148, 150 may also improve the aesthetic
appeal of the configurable side 108. The panels 148, 150, however,
are not necessary to the operation of the configurable side 108.
(Indeed, some embodiments omit the first and second vertical sides
148, 150 entirely).
[0030] FIGS. 2A-B illustrate further aspects of the configurable
side 108. (In FIGS. 2A-B, the panels 148 and 150 are omitted from
the illustrations to more clearly detail the structures hidden and
disposed therebetween.) FIG. 2A illustrates the configurable side
108 in a first mode of operation where the configurable side 108 is
in an extended position. FIG. 2B illustrates the configurable side
108 in a second mode of operation where the configurable side 108
is in a retracted position.
[0031] The lower fixed section 132 includes a first lower
transverse rail 138, a second lower transverse rail 140, and a
plurality of lower vertical supports 142. The first lower
transverse rail 138 and the second lower transverse rail 140 extend
between the posts 110b, c. The plurality of lower vertical supports
142 extend between the first lower transverse rail 138 and second
lower transverse rail 140. The lower vertical supports 142 are
spaced between and substantially parallel to the posts 110b, c to
allow a person to see a child in the crib assembly 100. The lower
vertical supports 142 may be spaced from each other by a
substantially equal distance. Additionally, each of the lower
vertical supports 142 may be spaced to minimize the chance of a
child's body part becoming stuck between the vertical supports. The
lower vertical supports 142 may be shaped to prevent a child from
using the vertical supports to climb over a side of the crib
assembly 100. Other considerations include minimizing structures
that may pinch a child or operator or cause asphyxiation of a child
by catching the child's clothing.
[0032] The upper moveable section 134 includes a first upper
transverse rail 144, a second upper transverse rail 146, the first
vertical panel 148, and the second vertical panel 150. The first
and second vertical panels 148, 150 span the distance from the
first upper transverse rail 144 to the second upper transverse rail
146. The second upper transverse rail 146 is disposed between the
first lower transverse rail 138 and the second lower transverse
rail 140. Correspondingly, the first lower transverse rail 138 is
disposed between the first upper transverse rail 144 and the second
upper transverse rail 146. The first upper transverse rail 144 and
the second upper transverse rail 146 may both be slidably connected
to the posts 110b, c. The slidable connection may be achieved by
guiding a protrusion extending from the upper moveable section 134
within an elongated channel, e.g., track, in another corresponding
part of the crib assembly 100. For example, as is shown in FIG. 4,
a moveable pin 402 and a fixed pin 412 are disposed within the
elongated channels 404 and 406, respectively, to allow only
one-dimensional movement of the upper moveable section 134.
[0033] The upper moveable section 134 also includes a plurality of
upper vertical supports 224 spaced between and substantially
parallel to the posts 110b, c. If the upper vertical supports 224
are exposed, they may be spaced to allow a person to see a child in
the crib assembly 100. The upper vertical supports 224 may be
spaced from each other by a substantially equal distance.
Additionally, each of the upper vertical supports 224 may be spaced
to minimize the chance of a child's body part becoming stuck
between the vertical supports. The upper vertical supports 224 may
be shaped to prevent a child from using the vertical supports to
climb over a side of the crib assembly 100. Other considerations
include minimizing points that may pinch a child or operator,
eliminating points that may cause asphyxiation of a child by
catching the child's clothing, and the like. The upper vertical
supports 224 are laterally offset from the lower vertical supports
142. If the upper vertical supports 224 are covered by the vertical
panels 148, 150, each support may be shaped and spaced to achieve
both functional and cost-saving benefits. The lower vertical
supports 142 are guided through the second upper transverse rail
142 by a plurality of apertures 226 disposed therein.
[0034] Before the crib assembly 100 is delivered to the customer,
the vertical panels 148, 150 may be secured in place as a safety
measure to prevent tampering, inadvertent disassembly, or other
various concerns. The securing may be accomplished by several means
including adhesives, nails, screws, etc.
[0035] Alternatively to the configurable side illustrated in FIGS.
2A-B, the second upper transverse rail 146 or the first lower
transverse rail 138 may be omitted from the configurable side 108.
If the second upper transverse rail 146 is omitted, the lower
vertical supports 142 would extend upward from the second lower
transverse rail 140 and end at a point within the plurality of
apertures 226 in the second upper transverse rail 146 when the
configurable side 108 is in the extended position. If the first
lower transverse rail 138 is omitted, the upper vertical supports
224 would extend downward from the first upper transverse rail 144
and end at a point within the apertures 226 of the first lower
transverse rail 138 when the configurable side 108 is in the
extended position.
[0036] Referring now to FIG. 3, an example latch 1000 is shown. The
latch includes a trigger 404, a moveable pin 402, a biasing member
1006, a recess 1008, recess aperture 1010, a side 1016, and side
apertures 1012. The trigger 404 is operatively connected to the
moveable pin 402 and disposed within the recess 1008. The biasing
member 1006 is a spring that exerts a force to urge the moveable
pin 402 outward from the side 1016. The biasing member 1006 urges
the moveable pin 402 toward the extended position as is shown in
FIG. 3 and may include, for example, a compression spring. The
force applied by the biasing member 1006 does not have to be
applied directly to the moveable pin 402. The recess aperture 1010
and side apertures 1012 are shaped to receive fasteners in order to
secure the latch 1000 to the crib assembly 100. The recess aperture
1010 is disposed in the path of travel the trigger 404 so that a
fastener engaging recess aperture 1010 will interfere with travel
of the trigger 404 unless the fastener is fully engaged.
[0037] Turning now to FIG. 4, a section of crib assembly 100
including an upper moveable section 134, a holding mechanism, and a
post 110b is shown. The holding mechanism includes a latch 400
disposed within the upper moveable section 134 and locking recesses
408a, b disposed within the post 110b. The post 110b also includes
two elongated channels 406, 414. The upper moveable section 134
includes a first upper transverse rail 144, a second upper
transverse rail 146, a first vertical panel 148, and a second
vertical panel 150 surrounding a cavity 516. The second vertical
panel 150 is not shown for clarity. The upper moveable section 134
also includes a sliding pin 420, a plurality of vertical supports
518, and a plurality of apertures 226 through the second upper
transverse rail 146. The plurality of apertures 226 extend from the
second upper transverse rail 146 into the cavity 516 and slidably
receive the lower vertical supports 142. The sliding pin 420 is
slidably received within an elongated channel 414 in the post
110b.
[0038] The latch 400 includes a moveable pin 402, a trigger 404, a
biasing member 1006 (as shown in FIG. 3), a recess screw 410, and
face screws 412. The trigger 404 adjusts the moveable pin 402
between an extended and a retracted position and is configured to
be manipulated by a user. In FIG. 4, the moveable pin 402 still
protrudes from the face of the latch while at the retracted
position. This retracted position was selected so that the moveable
pin 402 can still engage the elongated channel 406 but cannot
engage the locking recesses 408a, b. The locking recesses 408a, b
are disposed at opposite ends of the elongated channel 406 disposed
in the post 110b. The elongated channel 406 is not necessary to
allow proper functioning of the holding mechanism, but may be used
to guide the moveable pin 402 during travel of the upper moveable
section 134 in a desired direction. The locking recesses 408a, b
are configured to engage the moveable pin 402 while the moveable
pin 402 is in the extended position, but not when the moveable pin
402 is in the retracted position. Additional locking recesses may
be used to engage the moveable pin 402 at desired locations between
locking recesses 408a, b.
[0039] The biasing member 1006 applies a force that holds the
moveable pin 402 in the extended position. The moveable pin 402
engages at least a portion of the locking recess 408a while the
moveable pin 402 is in the extended position. The engagement of the
locking recess 408a by the moveable pin 402 holds the upper
moveable section 134 at a position. Urging the trigger 404 in a
direction moves the moveable pin 402 between the extended and
retracted positions. When the moveable pin 402 is in the retracted
position, the sides of the elongated channel 406 engage the
moveable pin 402 and help guide the upper moveable section 134
downward. The force applied by the biasing member 1006 will cause
the moveable pin to engage the full depth of the elongated channel
unless the trigger 404 counteracts this force. As the upper
moveable section 134 moves downward, the fixed pin 412 is guided
downward by the sides of the elongated channel 414. Additionally,
the lower vertical supports 142 are guided through the apertures
226 in the second upper transverse rail 146. The upper moveable
section 134 will move downward until stopped by the moveable pin
402 reaching the bottom of elongated channel 406 and engaging the
locking recess 408b. When the trigger 404 is used to disengage the
moveable pin 402 from the locking recess 408b, the upper moveable
section 134 can be moved upward until the moveable pin 402 aligns
with the locking recess 408a and the biasing member 1006 urges the
moveable pin 402 into engagement with the locking recess 408a.
Additionally, it is contemplated that the trigger 404 may be used
to urge the moveable pin 492 into engagement with the locking
recesses 408a, b.
[0040] Additionally, a recess screw 410 and face screws 412 may be
used to secure the latch 400 to the upper moveable section 134. The
recess screw 410 and face screw 412 have two positions, secured and
unsecured. The trigger 404 functions by moving laterally between an
extended position and a retracted position, each corresponding to
an extended position and a retracted position of the moveable pin
402. The recess screw 410 is placed in the path of the trigger 404
so that the trigger 404 may move uninhibited when the recess screw
410 is in the secured position. If the recess screw 410 is in an
unsecured position, movement of the trigger 404 is inhibited so
that the moveable pin 402 remains engaged with the locking recess
408. This prevents movement of the upper moveable section 134 when
the latch 400 is not secured to the upper moveable section 134. The
face screw 412 is positioned such that it will not inhibit movement
of the upper moveable section while in the secured position, but
will inhibit movement while in the unsecured position. This may be
accomplished, for example, by positioning the face screw 412
perpendicular to the direction of motion of the upper moveable
section 134 so that the face screw can contact a portion of the
post 110b while in an unsecured position. This contact may occur,
for example, if the face screw 412 is flush with the latch 400 in
the secured position, but is not flush in the unsecured
position.
[0041] Referring now to FIG. 5, an upper moveable section 134 with
a latch 500 is shown. In this embodiment, the upper moveable
section includes a first upper transverse rail 144, a second upper
transverse rail 146, a first vertical panel 148, and a second
vertical panel 150 surrounding a cavity 516. The second vertical
panel 150 is not shown for clarity. The upper moveable section
contains a plurality of upper vertical supports 518 passing through
apertures 228 in the first upper transverse rail 138. The lower
vertical supports 142 are guided through the second upper
transverse rail 146 by apertures 226 disposed therein. A spring 520
is included between the first lower transverse rail 138 and the
first upper transverse rail 144. The spring 520 applies a force to
urge and hold the upper moveable section 134 at an extended
position.
[0042] The latch 500 includes a trigger 404 and a dual pin 504a, b.
The pin has a fixed portion 504a and a moveable portion 504b. The
fixed portion 504a acts as a sleeve around the moveable portion
504b. The moveable portion 504b protrudes axially from the fixed
portion 504a and engages the locking recesses 506a, b when the dual
pin 504a, b is in an extended state. A retracted position of the
dual pin 504a, b is a position where the moveable portion 504b does
not engage the locking recesses 506a, b. Retracted positions may
include, for example, the moveable portion 504b disposed entirely
within the fixed portion 504a, the moveable portion 504b disposed
flush with the fixed portion 504a, or the moveable portion 504b
protruding from the fixed portion 504a. The fixed portion 504b does
not extend or retract and is configured to engage the elongated
channel 508. The engagement of the fixed portion 504b with the
elongated channel 508 helps limit the movement of the upper
moveable section 134 to one dimension. The first lower transverse
rail 138 includes an aperture 512 that is aligned with an aperture
514 in the post 110b. A dowel 510 engages both apertures 512, 514
and helps to fix the position of the first lower transverse rail
138.
[0043] When operated, the moveable section 134 is in an extended
position relative to the lower fixed section 132. The moveable
section 134 is held in the extended position by the moveable
portion 504b engaging the locking recess 506a and/or at least one
spring 520. A user manipulates the trigger 404 to urge the moveable
portion 504b of the dual pin into a retracted position and
disengages moveable portion 504b from locking recess 506a. The user
begins to urge the upper moveable section 134 downward. The fixed
section 504a engages the sides of the elongated channel 508 to
travel in a generally one-dimensional path. The upper moveable
section 134 also travels generally one-dimensionally because the
upper vertical supports 518 are guided through apertures 228 in the
first lower transverse rail 138 and because the lower vertical
supports 142 are guided through apertures 226 in the second upper
transverse rail 146. The upper moveable section continues in a
downward motion until the moveable portion 504b of the dual pin can
engage the locking recess 506b. At that point, the moveable portion
504b is urged into engagement with the locking recess 506b. A
spring may be used as part of the latch 500 and/or the trigger 404
may be used to urge the moveable portion 504b into engagement with
the locking recesses 506a, b. The engagement of the locking recess
506b by the moveable portion 504b holds the upper moveable section
134 in a retracted position. The user then manipulates the trigger
404 to urge the moveable portion 504b to a retracted position.
After disengagement of the moveable portion 504b from the locking
recess 506b, the upper moveable section 134 is urged upward by the
spring 520. While traveling, the upper moveable section 134 is
guided in a generally one-dimensional direction by the fixed
portion 504a engaging the sides of the elongated recess 508, the
upper vertical supports 518 being guided through the apertures 228
in the first lower transverse rail 138, and/or the lower vertical
supports 142 being guided through the apertures 226 in the second
upper transverse rail 146.
[0044] As can be seen in FIG. 5, the inclusion of the use of
vertical panels for the first and second vertical sides 148, 150
allow the upper vertical supports 518 to be sized, shaped, and
spaced differently than would be otherwise required by governing
safety regulations for cribs.
[0045] Referring now to FIG. 6, an alternate holding mechanism 600
is shown. The holding mechanism includes a moveable pin 602
disposed on the upper moveable section 134 and an elongated channel
604 is disposed within a lower vertical support 142. Similar to the
latches discussed in FIGS. 4 and 5, the moveable pin 602 engages
locking apertures 606a, b disposed within the elongated channel to
hold the upper moveable section 134 in a position relative to the
lower vertical supports 142. The locking apertures 606a, b are
disposed at opposite ends of the elongated channel 604.
[0046] Referring now to FIG. 7, an alternate holding mechanism 700
is shown. The holding mechanism 700 includes a trigger 702, a
moveable pin 704, a strike plate 706, apertures 708a, b, and a
biasing member 710. The trigger 702 is disposed in the upper
moveable section 134 so that a user may manipulate it. The moveable
pin 704 is operatively connected to the trigger 702 so that
manipulation of the trigger can urge the moveable pin 704 in a
direction. The biasing member 710 applies a force that urges the
moveable pin 704 toward the strike plate 706. The apertures 708a, b
are disposed at the top and bottom of the strike plate 706,
respectively, and configured to receive the moveable pin 704.
[0047] The upper moveable section is held in place by the
engagement of the aperture 708a by the moveable pin 704. The user
manipulates the trigger to disengage the moveable pin 704 from the
aperture 708a. Once disengaged, the upper moveable section 134 may
move generally one-dimensionally relative to the lower vertical
supports 142. While moving, the urging member 710 causes the
moveable pin 704 to abut the strike plate 706. When the upper
moveable section 134 is moved to the retracted position, the
moveable pin 704 is aligned with aperture 708b and urged into
engagement by the urging member 710. The user may then manipulate
the trigger 702 to disengage the aperture 708b. The upper moveable
section 134 can then be moved upward until the moveable pin 704 is
urged into engagement with the aperture 708a.
[0048] Referring now to FIG. 8, a holding element is shown that can
be used instead of the holding mechanism. The first lower
transverse rail 138 includes an aperture 814. The post 110b
includes an aperture 812 passing completely through the post 110b.
The aperture 812 is axially aligned with the aperture 814. A bolt
810 is used to engage both apertures 812, 814 and help hold the
first lower transverse rail 138 in place. The holding element 800
includes a bolt 802 and apertures 804a, b, 806. The aperture 806 is
disposed in the end of the first upper transverse rail 144 and
capable of receiving the bolt 802. The apertures 804a, b are
disposed within the post 110b. Aperture 804a is at a generally
higher location than aperture 804b. When bolt 802 engages aperture
804a and aperture 806, the upper moveable section 134 is in a
first, extended mode of operation. When bolt 802 engages aperture
804b and aperture 806, the upper moveable section 134 is in a
second, retracted mode of operation. Threading may be used on bolts
802, 810 and apertures 806, 814 to create a semi-permanent
connection.
[0049] Although the embodiments described above illustrate a
configurable side with an upper moveable section and a lower fixed
section, FIGS. 9A-B illustrate an embodiment in which aspects of
the present disclosure can be achieved. In particular, the crib
assembly 1100 employs a configurable side 1108 that includes only a
moveable side that can be slidably mounted at varying positions.
FIG. 9A illustrates the crib assembly 1100 with a configurable side
in a first, extended mode of operation according to aspects of the
present disclosure.
[0050] FIG. 9B illustrates the crib assembly 1100 with the
configurable side in a second, retracted mode of operation
according to aspects of the present disclosure. The configurable
side 1108 can be mounted at various positions and includes an upper
transverse rail, a lower transverse rail, and a plurality of
vertical supports. For example, the moveable side can be
semi-permanently mounted at a height relative to the floor using a
plurality of holding elements. In this configuration, the upper
transverse rail and lower transverse rail comprise an aperture at
each end configured to engage a bolt. The adjacent posts of the
crib assembly 1100 include a plurality of apertures configured to
receive a bolt. Each post includes at least two upper apertures and
at least two lower apertures. The upper apertures are configured to
engage the upper transverse rail in combination with a fastener.
The two lower apertures are configured to engage the lower
transverse rail in combination with a fastener. When the upper
transverse rail is aligned with the first upper aperture, the lower
transverse rail is aligned with the first lower aperture. When the
upper transverse rail is aligned with the second upper aperture,
the lower transverse rail is aligned with the second lower
aperture. When the fasteners are passed through the apertures in
the posts and engage the apertures in the upper transverse rail and
lower transverse rail, the moveable side is held in a location.
Alternatively, the upper transverse rail or lower transverse rail
can be slidably mounted to the adjacent posts. Alternatively, a
latching mechanism can be used to secure the moveable side at a
height relative to the ground instead of a holding element.
[0051] While only a single holding mechanism is needed for a device
in accordance with the present disclosure to function, two or more
holding mechanisms may be used to lessen the forces experienced by
an individual holding mechanism. If more than one holding mechanism
is used, a variety of mounting positions may be incorporated. For
example, holding mechanisms using the lower vertical supports may
allow a person of shorter stature to more easily operate the
mechanisms, but may lead to certain aesthetic drawbacks. Likewise,
holding mechanisms using the corner posts may be more aesthetically
pleasing, but may possibly present a slight problem to persons of
shorter stature.
[0052] While the lower and upper vertical supports 142, 224 have
been described as offset, it is contemplated that the supports can
also be co-axially aligned in a telescoping configuration where
each of one plurality of vertical supports is received within a
recess in each of the other plurality of vertical supports.
[0053] Although examples provided herein may indicate that the
configurable side 108 is on the front side of the crib assembly
100, it is contemplated that any side of the crib assembly 100 may
include features of the configurable side. In addition, although
the sides of the crib assembly 100 have been described as the right
side 102, the left side 104, the rear side 106, and configurable
(front) side 108, more common names may be used. For example, the
right side 102 and left side 104 may be more commonly known as side
rails or sideboards. The rear side 106 may be more commonly known
as a headboard. The front side may be more commonly known as a
footboard. It is further contemplated that more than one
configurable side may be incorporated into a single crib
assembly.
[0054] A crib in accord with the present disclosure may comply with
government regulations for cribs with moveable sides. The height of
the configurable side 108 of the crib assembly 100 shown in, for
example, FIG. 1A may be approximately thirty six inches off the
ground when in the extended position. The corresponding height of
the configurable side 108 of same example crib assembly shown in,
for example FIG. 1B, may be approximately twenty eight inches off
the ground. Government regulations currently require the height of
a lowered side to be no less than twenty inches above the mattress
surface. The height of the mattress support may be selected to
comply with regulations and design considerations for the distance
between the mattress surface or the floor surface to the top of the
moveable side while in the extended or retracted positions.
Accordingly, dimensions may be adjusted based on factors such as
changing governmental regulations, desired mattress height from the
floor, and consumer preference. It is contemplated that the upper
moveable section may have a desired travel distance up to about the
distance between the first upper transverse rail and second upper
transverse rail.
[0055] While the present disclosure has been described in
connection with a number of exemplary embodiments and
implementations, the present inventions are not so limited, but
rather cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements.
* * * * *