U.S. patent application number 14/722691 was filed with the patent office on 2015-12-03 for cradling bassinet.
This patent application is currently assigned to KIDS II, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is KIDS II, INC.. Invention is credited to Stephen BURNS, Daniel CORSO, Yuk Tong Thomas POON, Alex SORIANO.
Application Number | 20150342367 14/722691 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 54700355 |
Filed Date | 2015-12-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150342367 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
CORSO; Daniel ; et
al. |
December 3, 2015 |
CRADLING BASSINET
Abstract
A cradling bassinet to impart a rocking, swaying or gliding
motion to soothe a child occupant includes a frame and an infant
receiving receptacle. In example forms, the frame is movable
between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration.
The infant receiving receptacle is pivotally mounted to the frame
such that the infant receiving receptacle is capable of gliding or
swaying relative to the frame. In some example forms, the infant
receiving receptacle is removed from engagement with the frame and
capable of rocking on a support surface.
Inventors: |
CORSO; Daniel; (Atlanta,
GA) ; SORIANO; Alex; (Coventry, RI) ; BURNS;
Stephen; (Cumming, GA) ; POON; Yuk Tong Thomas;
(Yuen Long, HK) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
KIDS II, INC. |
Atlanta |
GA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
KIDS II, INC.
Atlanta
GA
|
Family ID: |
54700355 |
Appl. No.: |
14/722691 |
Filed: |
May 27, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62004266 |
May 29, 2014 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
5/102 ;
5/101 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47D 9/005 20130101;
A47D 9/02 20130101; A47D 9/00 20130101; A47D 13/105 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47D 9/02 20060101
A47D009/02; A47D 9/00 20060101 A47D009/00 |
Claims
1. A cradling bassinet comprising: a collapsible frame comprising
first and second frame portions pivotally connected at first and
second pivot couplings; and an infant receiving receptacle
pivotally mounted to the first and second pivot couplings for
moving in a side-to-side gliding motion relative to the collapsible
frame, wherein a pair of swing arms are pivotally mounted to the
first and second pivot couplings at first ends thereof, and wherein
second ends of the swing arms are pivotally mounted at each end of
the infant receiving receptacle, and whereby the swing arms at each
end thereof remain substantially parallel to each other throughout
the side-to-side motion.
2. The cradling bassinet of claim 1, wherein the infant receiving
receptacle comprises a mattress, and wherein the mattress remains
substantially horizontal throughout the side-to-side gliding
motion.
3. The cradling bassinet of claim 1, wherein the first and second
frame portions are generally U-shaped and each comprise a base
portion and upright leg members extending from the base
portion.
4. The cradling bassinet of claim 3, further comprising a cross
brace connecting together at least one of the upright leg members
of each of the first and second frame portions.
5. The cradling bassinet of claim 4, wherein the cross brace
comprises a first arm, a second arm, and a pivot coupling for
pivotally coupling the first and second arms together.
6. The cradling bassinet of claim 5, wherein the pivot coupling
comprises an actuatable lock for permitting or preventing pivotal
motion of the first and second arms relative thereto.
7. The cradling bassinet of claim 1, wherein the infant receiving
receptacle comprises an infant receiving receptacle frame
comprising first and second end frame members, a lower support
frame member, and first and second upper frame members
8. The cradling bassinet of claim 7, wherein the second ends of the
swing arms pivotally mount to the first and second end frame
members.
9. The cradling bassinet of claim 7, wherein the first and second
upper frame members pivotally mount to the first and second end
frame members such that the infant receiving receptacle frame is
movable between an expanded, erect configuration and a collapsed,
compact configuration.
10. The cradling bassinet of claim 1, wherein one or more of the
pivot couplings comprise an electric motor therein for moving the
infant receiving receptacle in a side-to-side motion.
11. The cradling bassinet of claim 5, wherein a portion of the
cross brace comprises at least a component of a magnetic drive
system for facilitating a side-to-side motion of the infant
receiving receptacle.
12. The cradling bassinet of claim 11, wherein at least a portion
of one of the end frame members comprises a component of the
magnetic drive system for interaction with the component of the
magnetic drive system of the cross brace.
13. The cradling bassinet of claim 1, wherein the first and/or
second frame portions comprise one or more feet for providing a
stable footing for the collapsible frame when the collapsible frame
is resting atop a support surface.
14. A cradling bassinet comprising: a frame; and an infant
receiving receptacle pivotally mounted to the frame for swaying in
a side-to-side motion along a generally arcuate path.
15. The cradling bassinet of claim 14, wherein the frame comprises
first and second U-shaped frame members mounted to first and second
hubs.
16. The cradling bassinet of claim 15, wherein the infant receiving
receptacle is pivotally mounted to the hubs.
17. The cradling basinet of claim 16, wherein at least one of the
hubs comprises a motor for providing the side-to-side movement to
the infant receiving receptacle.
18. The cradling bassinet of claim 14, wherein the frame comprises
first and second U-shaped frame members pivotally mounted together
at first and second pivot couplings.
19. The cradling bassinet of claim 18, wherein the infant receiving
receptacle comprises a canopy mounted thereto for at least
partially covering the infant receiving receptacle.
20. The cradling bassinet of claim 18, wherein the infant receiving
receptacle comprises a skirt mounted to an outer periphery
thereof.
21. A bassinet comprising: a collapsible frame; and an infant
receiving receptacle, wherein when the infant receiving receptacle
is pivotally mounted to the frame, the infant receiving receptacle
is movable relative the collapsible frame in a swaying motion along
an arcuate path, and wherein when the infant receiving receptacle
is removed from pivotal engagement with the collapsible frame and
the infant receiving receptacle is resting atop a support surface,
the infant receiving receptacle is movable in a rocking motion
along an arcuate path relative to the support surface.
22. The bassinet of claim 21, wherein the collapsible frame
comprises first and second U-shaped frame portions pivotally
mounted together at first and second pivot couplings.
23. The bassinet of claim 22, wherein the first and second U-shaped
frame portions comprise base portions and first and second leg
members extending therefrom, respectively.
24. The bassinet of claim 22, wherein one or more of the pivot
couplings comprise an actuatable member for permitting the
collapsing or expansion of the collapsible frame.
25. The bassinet of claim 22, wherein the infant receiving
receptacle comprises an infant receiving receptacle frame
comprising pivot coupling receivers configured for pivotally
coupling to hub extensions of the first and second pivot
couplings.
26. The bassinet of claim 25, wherein the infant receiving
receptacle frame further comprises lower arcuate supports
configured for rocking on the support surface.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 62/004,266 filed May 29, 2014, the
entirety of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference for
all purposes.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of
children's accessories and sleeping apparatuses for children and
infants, and more particularly to rocking, swaying and gliding
bassinets for infants and children.
SUMMARY
[0003] In example embodiments, the present invention provides a
cradling bassinet that can impart a rocking, swaying or gliding
motion to relax and soothe a child occupant to encourage sleeping.
In one aspect, the present invention relates to a cradling bassinet
including a collapsible frame having first and second frame
portions pivotally mounted together at first and second pivot
couplings, and an infant receiving receptacle pivotally mounted to
the first and second pivot couplings for moving in a side-to-side
gliding motion relative to the collapsible frame. A pair of swing
arms are pivotally mounted to the first and second pivot couplings
at first ends thereof, and second ends of the swing arms are
pivotally mounted at each end of the infant receiving receptacle,
and whereby the swing arms at each end thereof remain substantially
parallel to each other throughout the side-to-side motion.
[0004] In example forms, the infant receiving receptacle includes a
mattress therein, and wherein the mattress remains substantially
horizontal throughout the side-to-side gliding motion. The first
and second frame portions are generally U-shaped and each comprise
a base portion and upright leg members extending from the base
portion. In one example form, a cross brace is provided for
connecting together at least one of the upright leg members of each
of the first and second frame portions. The cross brace includes a
first arm, a second arm, and a pivot coupling for pivotally
coupling the first and second arms together. In some example forms,
the pivot coupling includes an actuatable lock for permitting or
preventing pivotal motion of the first and second arms relative
thereto.
[0005] In another aspect, the invention relates to a cradling
bassinet including a frame and an infant receiving receptacle
pivotally mounted to the frame for swaying in a side-to-side motion
along a generally arcuate path. The frame includes first and second
U-shaped frame members mounted to first and second hubs. The infant
receiving receptacle is pivotally mounted to the hubs, and at least
one of the hubs includes a motor for providing the side-to-side
movement to the infant receiving receptacle. In some example forms,
the frame includes first and second U-shaped frame members
pivotally mounted together at first and second pivot couplings.
Optionally, the infant receiving receptacle includes a canopy
mounted thereto for at least partially covering the infant
receiving receptacle and a skirt mounted to an outer periphery
thereof.
[0006] In still another aspect, the invention relates to a bassinet
including a collapsible frame and an infant receiving receptacle.
In example forms, when the infant receiving receptacle is pivotally
mounted to the frame, the infant receiving receptacle is movable
relative the collapsible frame in a swaying motion along an arcuate
path, and wherein when the infant receiving receptacle is removed
from pivotal engagement with the collapsible frame and the infant
receiving receptacle is resting atop a support surface, the infant
receiving receptacle is movable in a rocking motion along an
arcuate path relative to the support surface. In example forms, the
collapsible frame includes first and second U-shaped frame portions
pivotally mounted together at first and second pivot couplings. The
first and second U-shaped frame portions include base portions and
first and second leg members extending therefrom, respectively.
Optionally, one or more of the pivot couplings can include an
actuatable member for permitting the collapsing or expansion of the
collapsible frame. The infant receiving receptacle includes an
infant receiving receptacle frame having pivot coupling receivers
configured for pivotally coupling to hub extensions of the first
and second pivot couplings. Preferably, the infant receiving
receptacle frame includes lower arcuate supports configured for
rocking on the support surface.
[0007] These and other aspects, features and advantages of the
invention will be understood with reference to the drawing figures
and detailed description herein, and will be realized by means of
the various elements and combinations particularly pointed out in
the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing
general description and the following brief description of the
drawings and detailed description of the invention are exemplary
and explanatory of preferred embodiments of the invention, and are
not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 is an end perspective view of a gliding bassinet
according to an example embodiment of the present invention.
[0009] FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the gliding bassinet of
FIG. 1.
[0010] FIG. 3 is an end perspective view of the gliding bassinet of
FIG. 1, showing the collapsible frame of the bassinet in a folded,
compact configuration.
[0011] FIG. 4 is an end perspective view of the gliding bassinet of
FIG. 3, with the soft goods portion removed therefrom for better
visibility of the frame components.
[0012] FIG. 5 is an end perspective view of the gliding bassinet of
FIG. 4, showing the collapsible frame and bassinet frame thereof in
an unfolded, expanded configuration.
[0013] FIGS. 6 and 7 show end perspective views of the gliding
bassinet of FIG. 1 with directional arrows indicating gliding in a
side-to-side motion.
[0014] FIG. 8 is an end perspective view of a swaying bassinet
according to another example embodiment of the present invention,
showing the bassinet swaying in a first direction.
[0015] FIG. 9 is an end perspective view of the swaying bassinet of
FIG. 8, showing the bassinet swaying in a second direction
generally opposite the first direction.
[0016] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a swaying bassinet
according to another example embodiment of the present
invention.
[0017] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the swaying bassinet of
FIG. 10, showing an infant receiving receptacle and frame thereof
disengaged from the support frame thereof.
[0018] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the swaying bassinet of
FIG. 11, showing the infant receiving receptacle detached from the
support frame, and with the infant receiving receptacle frame
rocking on a support surface, and showing the support frame in a
folded configuration.
[0019] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a swaying bassinet
according to another example embodiment of the present
invention.
[0020] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the swaying bassinet of
FIG. 13, showing a skirt coupled to a bottom portion of the infant
receiving receptacle according to another example embodiment of the
present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS
[0021] The present invention may be understood more readily by
reference to the following detailed description of the invention
taken in connection with the accompanying drawing figures, which
form a part of this disclosure. It is to be understood that this
invention is not limited to the specific devices, methods,
conditions or parameters described and/or shown herein, and that
the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing
particular embodiments by way of example only and is not intended
to be limiting of the claimed invention. Any and all patents and
other publications identified in this specification are
incorporated by reference as though fully set forth herein.
[0022] Also, as used in the specification including the appended
claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include the plural,
and reference to a particular numerical value includes at least
that particular value, unless the context clearly dictates
otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" or
"approximately" one particular value and/or to "about" or
"approximately" another particular value. When such a range is
expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular
value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values
are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent "about,"
it will be understood that the particular value forms another
embodiment.
[0023] Generally described, the present invention relates to a
cradling bassinet, which may be in various forms to impart a
rocking, swaying or gliding motion to soothe a child occupant.
According to some example forms of the present invention, the
cradling bassinet provides a first motion in a first configuration
and a second motion in a second configuration.
[0024] With reference now to the drawing figures, wherein like
reference numbers represent corresponding parts throughout the
several views, FIGS. 1-7 show a cradling bassinet 10 according to
an example embodiment of the present invention. In example forms,
the cradling bassinet 10 generally comprises a collapsible frame 12
and an infant receiving receptacle 14 pivotally mounted to the
collapsible frame 12. The infant receiving receptacle 14 is
configured to glide in a side-to-side motion for soothing a child
or infant therein. In example forms, the side-to-side movement of
the infant receiving receptacle 14 is provided by input from a
caregiver, for example, by pushing or pulling the infant receiving
receptacle 14. In alternate example forms, the bassinet 10 is
configured to be powered by a motor and/or magnetic drive system,
for example, which may be connected to a 110V/220V wall outlet or
other power source. Optionally, one or more batteries may be
provided for powering the motor and/or magnetic drive system.
[0025] In an example embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, the collapsible
frame 12 comprises first and second U-shaped frame portions 16, 24
pivotally coupled together at first and second pivot couplings 34,
36. The first U-shaped frame portion 16 generally comprises a base
portion 20, which extends generally horizontally along or near the
support surface or floor, and a pair of upright leg members 22.
Similarly, the second U-shaped frame portion 24 generally comprises
a base portion 26 and upright leg members 30. One or more feet 32
may be mounted to the first and second U-shaped portions 16, 24,
for example, near the corners thereof (intersections between base
portions 20, 26 and upright leg members 22, 30), to provide a
stable footing for resting against a support surface or floor.
Optionally, the feet 32 may be positioned as desired on the first
and/or second U-shaped portions 16, 24. According to one example
form, the base portions of the first and second frame portions 16,
24 are generally arcuate in shape, for example, to provide a
rocking base. According to another example form, the collapsible
frame 12 is convertible between rocking and stationary, for
example, wherein the rocking base or first and second frame
portions 16, 24 are movably mounted to flip down and engage the
support surface, which would allow for rocking thereof. Preferably,
the rocking back could be moved out of engagement with the support
surface to provide a stationary footing with the support surface.
According to yet another form, the rocking base could be a separate
component configured to removably receive a stationary bassinet.
Optionally, the base portions 20, 26 and the upright leg members
22, 30 extending therefrom may be shaped as desired.
[0026] In typical example embodiments, a cross brace 40 is provided
between the first and second U-shaped portions 16, 24 to limit the
extent of the pivotal motion between the first and second U-shaped
portions, for example, between an unfolded, expanded configuration
(see FIGS. 1-2, 5-7) and a folded, collapsed configuration (see
FIGS. 3-4). Generally, the cross brace 40 comprises a first arm 42,
a second arm 44, and a pivot coupling 46 therebetween. In example
forms, the first arm 42 is mounted to the upright leg member 22 and
the pivot coupling 46, and the second arm 44 is mounted to the
upright leg member 30 and the pivot coupling 46. Generally, the
arms 42, 44 are mounted near the midpoint of the upright leg
members 22, 30; however, the arms 42, 44 may be mounted at any
position along the upright leg members 22, 30. According to one
example form, the pivot coupling comprises a push button 47 to
permit pivoting of the arms 42, 44 relative to each other, thereby
permitting the first and second frame portions 16, 24 to pivot
relative to each other, for example, when it is desired to expand
or collapse the collapsible frame 12. Optionally, a twist button or
other actuation mechanism may be provided for permitting and
preventing movement of the arms 42, 44 relative to each other.
Depending on the preferred angle between the first and second frame
portions 16, 24, the length of the first and second arms 42, 44 can
be shaped and sized accordingly.
[0027] As depicted in FIG. 2, the infant receiving receptacle 14
generally comprises a soft goods liner that is removably coupled to
an infant receiving receptacle frame or bassinet frame 56 (as will
be described below, see FIGS. 4-5). In example forms, the soft
goods liner is generally formed from a fabric or other textile-like
material (with or without padding), which may comprise one or more
portions formed from a mesh lining, for example, to provide for
allowing an infant or child therein to see through one or more
walls of the liner. Optionally, the liner may be flexible (but not
soft) like plastic or rubber with a living hinge or comprised of
multiple panels. Optionally, the infant receiving receptacle may be
formed from a rigid, bucket-style receiving receptacle. The floor
of the infant receiving receptacle 14 preferably comprises a
mattress 72 formed from one or more panels 74 that are foldable
relative to each other to allow the infant receiving receptacle 14
to become compacted for storage (see FIG. 3).
[0028] FIGS. 4-5 show the infant receiving receptacle frame 56 in
greater detail. As depicted, a pair of swing arms 52, 54 positioned
near each end of the infant receiving receptacle frame 56 movably
mount the infant receiving receptacle frame 56 to the collapsible
frame 12, for example, to permit the infant receiving receptacle
frame 56 to glide in a side-to-side motion. According to one
example form, the swing arms 52, 54 are generally L-shaped and
pivotally mount to the pivot couplings 34, 36 of the collapsible
frame 12 and to a lower or bottom portion of the ends of the infant
receiving receptacle frame 56. As depicted in FIG. 4, the swing
arms 52, 54 are generally spaced a distance apart from each other
and are substantially parallel with each other. Preferably, first
ends of the swing arms 52, 54 are pivotally mounted to an inside
portion of the pivot couplings 34, 36 and second ends of the swing
arms 52, 54 are pivotally mounted to a portion of end frame members
60 of the infant receiving receptacle frame 56. According to one
example form, a recess or pocket is formed on the interior side of
the pivot couplings 34, 36 for receiving the first ends of the
swing arms 52, 54. As described above, it is preferred that the
swing arms 52, 54 are generally spaced apart in a similar manner at
both the pivotal connection at the pivot couplings 34, 36 and at
the first and second end frame members 60, which imparts the infant
receiving receptacle frame 56 to glide in a side-to-side motion
along a substantially similar horizontal plane. Thus, the mattress
72 within the infant receiving receptacle 14 remains substantially
horizontal when moving in a side-to-side motion.
[0029] In typical example embodiments, the infant receiving
receptacle frame 56 comprises the first and second end frame
members 60, a lower support frame member 62 (connecting the first
and second end frame members 60 together), and first and second
upper frame members 64. Preferably, the ends of the upper frame
members 64 are provided with pivot fittings 66 for pivotally
coupling the ends of the upper frame members 64 to an upper portion
of the first and second end frame members 60. Thus, the upper frame
members 64 are capable of pivoting relative to the first and second
end frame members 60 between a compacted configuration (see FIG. 4)
and an expanded configuration (see FIG. 5) so that the infant
receiving receptacle frame 56 (and collapsible frame 14) can be
expanded and compacted, for example, when it is desired to use or
store the cradling bassinet 10 in a closet, for packing in a
vehicle, etc. As depicted in FIGS. 3-4, the upper frame members 64
are pivoted upward so that the infant receiving receptacle 14 is
compact. The first and second pivot couplings 34, 36 may comprise
an opening or grasping handles such that the expanded or collapsed
cradling bassinet 10 can be easily lifted and carried. In example
forms, the first and second end frame members 60 are generally
L-shaped support members whereby lower portions thereof provide for
receiving the lower support frame member 62 and the upper portions
thereof provide for receiving the pivot fittings 66. Furthermore,
the lower portions generally comprise a recess or receptacle for
receiving the second ends of the swing arms 52, 54 to provide a
pivotal connection therewith.
[0030] FIGS. 6-7 show the infant receiving receptacle 14 gliding in
a side-to-side motion along a substantially similar horizontal
plane. As described above, since the upper and lower portions of
the swing arms 52, 54 are mounted at a substantially similar
distance relative to each other, and with the swing arms 52, 54
being parallel to each other, the infant receiving receptacle 14
and the mattress 72 therein move in a side-to-side motion along a
substantially similar horizontal plane. Optionally, the mounting
positions of the pivotal connections of the ends of the swing arms
42, 44 with the pivotal couplings 34, 36 or with the first and
second end frame members 60 may be adjustable such that the swing
arms are not parallel relative to each other, thereby imparting at
least a partial arcuate sway or swing motion. According to one
form, the mounting positions of the pivotal couplings of the swing
arms 42, 44 with the pivotal couplings 34, 36 can be adjusted as
desired. Thus, according to some example forms, the cradling
bassinet 10 is adjustable between two different types of
side-to-side movement, for example, between a gliding, horizontal
movement and a swaying or swinging movement along an arcuate
path.
[0031] As described above, the side-to-side motion may be provided
by manually pushing or pulling the infant receiving receptacle 14,
or may be moved by an electric motor and/or magnetic drive system.
In example forms, an electric motor is housed within the pivot
coupling 34 and is linked to one or more of the swing arms 52, 54
that are pivotally coupled thereto. Furthermore, a magnetic drive
member receiver 70 can be mounted to one of the end frame members
60 for providing interaction with another magnetic drive member of
the pivot coupling 46 of the cross brace 40 (see FIG. 3).
Preferably, one or more controls or buttons 80 may be provided on
one of the pivot couplings 34, 36 (or provided elsewhere) for
controlling the electric motor, magnetic drive system, etc.
Optionally, other features including but not limited to a
vibration, audible sounds, lights, etc. may be incorporated into
the cradling bassinet 10. Optionally, the location of the motive
drive force (motor, drive system, or other drive means) can vary,
for example, wherein it can be located either wholly or partially
in the hubs, legs, below the bassinet, etc.
[0032] FIGS. 8-9 show a cradling bassinet 100 according to another
example embodiment of the present invention. As depicted, the
cradling bassinet 100 generally comprises a frame 112 and an infant
receiving receptacle 114 pivotally mounted to the frame. In example
forms, the infant receiving receptacle 114 is capable of swinging
in a side-to-side motion along an arcuate or curved path, for
example, to soothe a child occupant (see directional arrows). The
frame 112 generally comprises both a first U-shaped frame portion
116 having a base portion 120, upright leg members 122, and
connectors 124 coupling the base portion 120 and leg members 122
together, and a second U-shaped frame portion 126 having a base
portion 130, upright leg members 132, and connectors 134 coupling
the base portion 130 and leg members 132 together. First and second
hubs 136 are provided for connecting the first and second U-shaped
frame portions 116, 126 together. According to one example form,
the ends of the leg members 122, 132 that are coupled to the first
and second hubs 136 are generally fixedly mounted thereto, for
example, wherein the leg members 122, 132 (and ultimately the first
and second U-shaped portions) are incapable of pivoting relative to
each other or the hubs 136. Preferably, the leg members 122, 132
are capable of being removed from the hubs 136, but generally
remain fixed therein when attached thereto. Optionally, the upright
leg members 122, 132 are pivotally mounted to the hubs 136 such
that the first and second U-shaped frame portions 116, 126 can
pivot relative to each other. As similarly described above, the
infant receiving receptacle 114 comprises a soft goods portion
removably mounted atop an infant receiving receptacle frame 140.
The infant receiving receptacle frame 140 generally comprises an
upper frame portion (unshown) for defining the opening of the
receptacle, a bottom support portion 142, and upright portions 144
extending from the ends of the bottom support portion 142.
Preferably, the ends of the upright portions 144 are pivotally
connected to the hubs 136 and define pivots 146. Preferably, an
electric motor or magnetic drive system is incorporated within one
or both of the hubs 136 to impart the swinging, side-to-side motion
of the infant receiving receptacle. Optionally, a caregiver may
cause the infant receiving receptacle 114 to move by pushing or
pulling the same. Optionally, as described above, the location of
the motive drive force (motor, drive system, or other drive means)
can vary, for example, wherein it can be located either wholly or
partially in the hubs, legs, below the bassinet, etc.
[0033] FIGS. 10-12 show a cradling bassinet 200 according to
another example embodiment of the present invention. As depicted in
FIG. 10, the cradling bassinet 200 comprises a collapsible frame
212 and an infant receiving receptacle 214 pivotally mounted to the
collapsible frame 212. Preferably, the infant receiving receptacle
provides a first motion in a first configuration and a second
motion in a second configuration. For example, when the infant
receiving receptacle 214 is pivotally mounted to the collapsible
frame 212, the infant receiving receptacle is movable in a
side-to-side swinging or swaying motion along a generally arcuate
path (see FIG. 10). However, when the infant receiving receptacle
214 is disengaged from the collapsible frame 212, the infant
receiving receptacle 214 can be placed atop a support surface and
is movable in a front-to-back, rocking motion along a generally
arcuate path (see FIG. 12). Thus, according to some example forms,
the cradling bassinet 200 is convertible between a swaying or
swinging bassinet, moving along a generally arcuate or curved path
when pivotally mounted to the collapsible frame 212, and a rocking
bassinet pivoting along a generally arcuate or curved path in a
front-to-back, rocking motion.
[0034] As depicted in FIGS. 10-11, the collapsible frame 212
generally comprises first and second U-shaped frame portions 216,
224 that are pivotally mounted together at first and second pivot
couplings 234. The first and second U-shaped portions 216, 224 each
comprise base portions 220, 226 and upright leg members 222, 230
extending therefrom, respectively. One or more feet 232 may be
provided on each of the U-shaped portions as desired, for example,
to provide a stable footing for the collapsible frame 212 atop a
support surface. Optionally, a lock or actuatable member 236 may be
provided on one or both of the pivot couplings 234 to permit the
collapsing or expansion of the collapsible frame 212. The infant
receiving receptacle 214 comprises an infant receiving receptacle
frame 240 comprising pivot coupling receivers 242, lower arcuate
supports 244, and upper frame supports 246. The pivot coupling
receivers 242 are preferably provide for pivotal engagement with
the first and second pivot couplings 234 (or hub extensions
thereof), thereby permitting the infant receiving receptacle to
swing or sway side-to-side along an arcuate path relative to the
collapsible frame. Optionally, the lock member 236 also provides
positive engagement between the pivot coupling receivers 242 and
the hub extensions of the pivot couplings 234 to prevent
inadvertent detachment in use, and for permitting selective
disengagement by an adult caregiver. In example embodiments, the
upper frame support 246 and the lower arcuate supports 244 are
generally coupled together to form a substantially rigid frame
structure and accommodates for receiving a soft goods liner
thereon. Optionally, a motive drive force (motor, drive system, or
other drive means) may be provided for swinging the infant
receiving receptacle in a side-to-side motion. Preferably, the
motive drive force can be located either wholly or partially in the
hubs, legs, below the bassinet, etc.
[0035] As depicted in FIG. 12, the infant receiving receptacle 214
may be provided as a rocker, for example, wherein the lower arcuate
supports 244 thereof rest against a support surface to provide a
front-to-back, rocking motion. In example forms, the collapsible
frame 212 may be collapsed and put away while using the infant
receiving receptacle 214 as a rocker. Preferably, at least a
portion of the infant receiving receptacle frame 240 comprises
grasping handles 250 positioned at either end of the receptacle 214
so that a caregiver can lift the receptacle 214 from the support
surface, or for lifting the receptacle from the collapsible frame
212. According to some example forms, one or more straps or a
harness may be provided within the infant receiving receptacle 214
for safely securing the child occupant within the infant receiving
receptacle 214.
[0036] FIGS. 13-14 show a cradling bassinet 300 according to
another example embodiment of the present invention. As depicted,
the cradling bassinet 300 generally comprises a collapsible frame
312 and an infant receiving receptacle 314 pivotally mounted to the
collapsible frame 312. The infant receiving receptacle 314 can
pivot with respect to the collapsible frame 312 to impart a
cradling, swinging or swaying motion to a child occupant. In
example forms, the motion can be manually driven or motor driven,
for example, wherein a motor is provided within a portion of one or
more pivot couplings 334 of the collapsible frame or otherwise
located on or within the bassinet 300 or a portion thereof
(including the collapsible frame, hubs, etc.). The collapsible
frame 312 generally comprises both a first U-shaped frame portion
316 comprising a base portion 320 and upright leg members 322
extending therefrom, and a second U-shaped frame portion 324
comprising a base portion 326 and upright leg members 330 extending
therefrom. One or more feet 332 may be provided on one or more of
the U-shaped frame portions as desired, for example, to provide a
supportive footing for the collapsible frame 312 when resting atop
a support surface. In example forms, the infant receiving
receptacle 314 comprises an infant receiving receptacle frame for
receiving a soft goods liner, which may comprise a mattress
therein, and which may have an adjustable angle of inclination.
Furthermore, according to some example forms, the infant receiving
receptacle comprises a canopy 340 for covering at least a portion
of the receptacle and a skirt 324 for hanging around the outer
periphery of the receptacle.
[0037] While the invention has been described with reference to
preferred and example embodiments, it will be understood by those
skilled in the art that a variety of modifications, additions and
deletions are within the scope of the invention, as defined by the
following claims.
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