U.S. patent application number 15/666087 was filed with the patent office on 2018-02-01 for bassinets, bassinet systems, and methods.
The applicant listed for this patent is Pip & Grow. Invention is credited to Amber Kroeker, Glenn Smith.
Application Number | 20180027990 15/666087 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 61011863 |
Filed Date | 2018-02-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180027990 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kroeker; Amber ; et
al. |
February 1, 2018 |
Bassinets, Bassinet Systems, and Methods
Abstract
This document relates to a foldable bassinet configured to
provide a short-term, portable, safe environment for a young
child.
Inventors: |
Kroeker; Amber; (Portland,
OR) ; Smith; Glenn; (Burton, MI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Pip & Grow |
Portland |
OR |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
61011863 |
Appl. No.: |
15/666087 |
Filed: |
August 1, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62369571 |
Aug 1, 2016 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47D 9/005 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47D 9/00 20060101
A47D009/00 |
Claims
1. A system comprising: a foldable die cut sheet configured to form
an open top bassinet for receiving an infant when in an operative
position, the sheet comprising a plurality of panels connected by
fold lines and comprising: a base panel having a pair of transverse
edges defined by spaced, parallel, transverse fold lines that
extend along a transverse direction and a pair of longitudinal
edges defined by longitudinal fold lines that extend along a
longitudinal direction, the base panel adapted to form a bottom
wall of the bassinet; two end panels, each end panel extending from
a respective one of the transverse fold lines of the base panel,
each end panel comprising a primary portion hingedly connected at
said transverse fold lines and a reinforcing portion hingedly
connected to the primary portion, and each primary and reinforcing
portion of each end panel defining a trapezoidal shape configured
to form outwardly angled end walls of the bassinet; two side
panels, each side panel extending from a respective one of the
longitudinal fold lines of the base panel, each side panel
comprising a sidewall primary portion, two connecting portions, and
one sidewall reinforcing portion for folding each side panel for
engagement with the end panels and the base panel, and each of the
primary and reinforcing portions of the end panel defining a
trapezoidal shape configured to form outwardly angled side walls of
the bassinet; and wherein each connecting portion of each side
panel is hingedly connected to the primary sidewall portion for
folding toward the opposing connecting portion of the opposing side
panel so that the reinforcing portion of the adjacent end panel
contemporaneously engages with both the connecting portion and the
opposing connecting portion; and a padded member having a size and
shape approximately equal to a rectangular perimeter of the base
panel, the padded member configured to be positioned within an
interior cavity of the bassinet to provide soft padding for the
child.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the trapezoidal shape of the
connecting portion of each said side panel is partially defined by
cut lines that extend in an outwardly diverging relation from an
intersection of the transverse fold lines and the longitudinal fold
lines of the base panel and between the connecting portion of the
side panel and primary portion of the end panel.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein each fold line extends at an
angle ranging from about 92 degrees to about 120 degrees relative
to the transverse fold lines of the base panel.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein each fold line extends at an
angle ranging from about 95 degrees to about 100 degrees relative
to the transverse fold lines of the base panel.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the primary and
reinforcing portions of each end panel is defined by a slot
opening.
6. The system of claim 5, wherein the slot opening has a width
ranging from about 3.5 to about 4.5 inches and a height ranging
from about 1 inch to about 2 inches.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein the sheet has a uniform thickness
ranging from about 0.5 mm to about 2 mm.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein a ratio of a maximum transverse
dimension of the end panel to a maximum longitudinal dimension of
the side panel ranges from about 1.5 to about 1.75.
9. The system of claim 1, wherein a ratio of a minimum longitudinal
dimension of the side panel to a maximum longitudinal dimension of
the side panel ranges from about 0.75 to about 0.95.
10. The system of claim 10, wherein a ratio of a minimum
longitudinal dimension of the side panel to a maximum longitudinal
dimension of the side panel ranges from about 0.88 to about
0.93.
11. The system of claim 1, wherein the ratio of a minimum
transverse dimension of the end panel to a maximum transverse
dimension of the end panel ranges from about 0.80 to about
0.99.
12. The system of claim 12, wherein the ratio of a minimum
transverse dimension of the end panel to a maximum transverse
dimension of the end panel ranges from about 0.95 to about
0.98.
13. A system comprising: a bassinet comprising: a substantially
planar horizontal base having a plurality of edges; a plurality of
angled sidewalls, each angled sidewall aligned to an edge of the
base and extending upwardly and outwardly from the base, the angled
sidewalls defining an interior cavity; and a padded member having a
size and shape approximately equal to a rectangular perimeter of
the base panel, the padded member configured to be positioned
within an interior cavity of the bassinet to provide soft padding
for a child; wherein each angled sidewall is positioned at an angle
relative to the base; and wherein the angled sidewall are
configured promote air flow through the interior cavity.
14. The system of claim 13, wherein the angled sidewalls are
inclined at an angle greater than 90 degrees relative to the
base.
15. The system of claim 13, wherein the angled sidewalls range from
about 95 degrees to about 140 degrees relative to the base.
16. The system of claim 13, wherein the angled sidewalls range from
about 98 degrees to about 100 degrees.
17. The system of claim 13, wherein the angled sidewalls range from
about 98 degrees to about 100 degrees.
18. The system of claim 13, wherein the system further comprising
an accessory electronic device configured to be anchored to at
least one angled sidewall.
19. The system of claim 13, wherein the accessory electronic device
comprises a light fixture.
20. The system of claim 13, wherein at least one of the angled
sidewalls defines a plurality of apertures for promoting air flow
through the interior cavity.
21. The system of claim 13, wherein at least one of the angled
sidewalls defines a plurality of mesh-reinforced slots for
promoting air flow through the interior cavity.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn.119(e) to co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
62/369,571, filed Aug. 1, 2016, and entitled "Bassinets, Bassinet
Systems, and Methods," which is incorporated herein in its entirety
by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This document relates to a bassinet, a bassinet system, and
related methods for providing a temporary, portable, safe
environment for a young child.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Sudden unexpected infant death (SUID) (which can also be
referred to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)) is the leading
cause of post-neonatal infant death in the United States. Each year
in the United States, there are about 3,500 deaths due to SUID. In
addition, many infants die each year of asphyxiation while in a
crib. SUID is defined as the sudden death of an infant under 1 year
of age that remains unexplained after a thorough case
investigation, which includes the performance of a complete
autopsy, examination of the death scene, and review of the clinical
history.
[0004] While no specific cure of SUID is known, studies as well as
other medical research suggests that neurological disorders,
sleeping in the prone position, and the accumulation of carbon
dioxide in an infant's sleeping area may be contributing causes. In
particular, in the case of carbon dioxide accumulation, expired
carbon dioxide can enter infant bedding to form a "pool" of carbon
dioxide that a child can potentially rebreathe. Rebreathing carbon
dioxide trapped in soft bedding products or sleep areas may
contribute to the deaths of infants found in potentially
suffocating circumstances. As such, it is advised that pillows and
blankets not be placed in the crib environment to further lessen
the likelihood of suffocation.
[0005] The accumulation of carbon dioxide may occur in an infant's
sleeping area because carbon dioxide is fifty percent heavier than
air. The exhaled carbon dioxide therefore moves in a downward
direction but its movement may be blocked by a sleeping enclosure
and its mattress, resulting in the formation of the "pool" of
carbon dioxide at or near the bottom of the sleeping area.
SUMMARY
[0006] Some embodiments described herein may include a bassinet or
a bassinet system configured to receive a child (e.g., an infant)
and provide a safe environment for the child. The bassinet and
systems provided herein can, in some cases, be used to hold a child
of about or less than six months of age. The bassinet system
provided herein can be useful, for example, to a caretaker (e.g., a
parent or a guardian) who would like a light-weight portable
bassinet, either empty or holding an infant, which can be
conveniently carried from one room to another. Certain
implementations of the bassinet system provided herein can be
shipped and received by the caretaker. The system described herein
can be provided as unassembled components, which may include a flat
die cut sheet, handle components, a mattress, and an optional
accessory device. The system provided herein may be assembled by
folding the die cut sheet into a bassinet structure defining an
interior cavity, placing the mattress into the interior cavity, and
optionally attaching soft handles for easier gripping to the walls
of the bassinet structure. In some implementations, the system can
include a die cut sheet that forms a bassinet structure having
angled sidewalls to promote air flow through the interior cavity.
The angled sidewalls can minimize or prevent carbon dioxide, which
is produced by the infant, from accumulating within the interior
cavity of the bassinet structure. Accordingly, in some
implementations, the system or method provided herein can form a
bassinet structure that provides a safe, inexpensive, portable
environment for the infant that significantly reduces or even
eliminates risk factors for SUID.
[0007] Particular embodiments of the subject matter described in
this document can be implemented to optionally provide one or more
of the following advantages. First, the bassinet systems provided
herein can provide the advantage of facilitating the disbursement
of carbon dioxide away from an interior cavity of the bassinet.
Unlike a square-shaped box having right-angled side walls, the
angled walls of the bassinet provided herein provide a sloped
surface that can reduce the formations of eddy currents within the
interior cavity. Eddy currents can trap gases within the interior
cavity. Thus, the prevention of the eddy currents within the
interior cavity can promote increased air flow through the interior
cavity. Accordingly, when a child is placed within the interior
cavity of the bassinet, the angled side walls of the bassinet
system can help mitigate the risks of exposing the child to
undesirable levels of carbon dioxide gas
[0008] Second, some embodiments herein may be configured to provide
an easy-to-assemble bassinet system that provides a safe
environment for a child. For example, in some cases, the assembly
of the bassinet provided herein does not require the use of any
tools. In some cases, the assembly of the bassinet can be completed
in a short amount of time (e.g., in about or less than 15 minutes).
The system can include a die cut sheet that is configured to fold
into a bassinet structure. Once formed, the bassinet provides an
interior cavity that is free of objects or materials that might
harm the child, such as loose blankets, pillows, or the like. The
walls of the bassinet can be used to separate the child from
peripheral objects or materials present in a room that could be
potentially harmful to the infant. The interior cavity also
provides a clean surface on which to place the infant when the
bassinet is carried to a particular room.
[0009] Third, some embodiments provided herein may reduce the
likelihood of a caretaker placing a young child in an unsafe
location since the bassinet is made lightweight materials, and thus
making it highly portable. The lightweight characteristic of the
bassinet is facilitated to allow a caretaker (e.g., a parent) to
grab and transport the bassinet with ease to different locations,
e.g., different rooms within a home. Because the bassinet can be
highly portable, the use of the bassinet can reduce the likelihood
of the caretaker temporarily placing the child in potentially
unsafe locations, e.g., placing a child on a couch with loose
blankets, which can increase the risk of SUID.
[0010] Fourth, some implementations of the bassinet and system
provided herein can be environmentally friendly. For example, the
bassinet provided herein can include recycled materials and/or
compostable materials. In particular, the bassinet can comprise a
foldable die cut sheet made of recycled cardboard or paper-based
materials. Furthermore, the angled walls of the bassinet can also
allow for stackability that increases packaging volume efficiency
and reduces volume reduction of waste products.
[0011] In some embodiments, a system comprises a foldable die cut
sheet configured to form an open top bassinet for receiving an
infant when in an operative position and the sheet comprising a
plurality of panels connected by fold lines and a padded member
having a size and shape approximately equal to a rectangular
perimeter of the base panel, the padded member configured to be
positioned within an interior cavity of the bassinet to provide
soft padding for the child. The foldable die cut sheet comprises a
base panel having a pair of transverse edges defined by spaced,
parallel, transverse fold lines that extend along a transverse
direction and a pair of longitudinal edges defined by longitudinal
fold lines that extend along a longitudinal direction, the base
panel adapted to form a bottom wall of the bassinet. The foldable
die cut sheet also comprises two end panels, each end panel
extending from a respective one of the transverse fold lines of the
base panel, each end panel comprising a primary portion hingedly
connected at said transverse fold lines and a reinforcing portion
hingedly connected to the primary portion, and each primary and
reinforcing portion of each end panel defining a trapezoidal shape
configured to form outwardly angled end walls of the bassinet. The
foldable die cut sheet also comprises two side panels, each side
panel extending from a respective one of the longitudinal fold
lines of the base panel, each side panel comprising a sidewall
primary portion, two connecting portions, and one sidewall
reinforcing portion for folding each side panel for engagement with
the end panels and the base panel, and each of the primary and
reinforcing portions of the end panel defining a trapezoidal shape
configured to form outwardly angled side walls of the bassinet.
Each connecting portion of each side panel is hingedly connected to
the primary sidewall portion for folding toward the opposing
connecting portion of the opposing side panel so that the
reinforcing portion of the adjacent end panel contemporaneously
engages with both the connecting portion and the opposing
connecting portion.
[0012] In some implementations, a system comprises a bassinet that
includes a substantially planar horizontal base having a plurality
of edges; a plurality of angled sidewalls, each angled sidewall
aligned to an edge of the base and extending upwardly and outwardly
from the base; and a padded member member having a size and shape
approximately equal to a rectangular perimeter of the base panel.
The angled sidewalls define an interior cavity. The padded member
is configured to be positioned within an interior cavity of the
bassinet to provide soft padding for a child. Each angled sidewall
is positioned at an angle relative to the base. The angled sidewall
are configured promote air flow through the interior cavity.
[0013] The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are
set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below.
Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will be
apparent from the description and drawings, and from the
claims.
DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0014] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further
understanding of the disclosure and are incorporated in and
constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of
the disclosure, and together with the description, serve to explain
the principles of the disclosure, wherein;
[0015] FIGS. 1A and 1B are perspective views of an exemplary
bassinet system for receiving a young child. FIG. 1A shows a
collapsed view of the system holding the young child, and FIG. 1B
shows an expanded view of the system and the young child.
[0016] FIGS. 2A-2C are plan, side, and front views of the exemplary
bassinet of FIGS. 1A and 1B.
[0017] FIGS. 3A and 3B are plan and side views of an exemplary die
cut sheet for forming the bassinet of FIGS. 2A-2C.
[0018] FIGS. 4A-4D show how the exemplary die cut sheet of FIGS.
3A-3B can be folded and assembled to form the exemplary bassinet of
FIG. 2A-2C.
[0019] FIGS. 5A-5D are illustrations showing an exemplary accessory
electronic device for the systems and bassinets provided herein.
FIG. 5A shows a partial plan view of a bassinet with the accessory
device anchored therewith. FIG. 5B shows magnified side view of the
anchored electronic accessory device. FIGS. 5C and 5D show
components of the exemplary accessory electronic device.
[0020] FIGS. 6A and 6B are plan and perspective side views of
another exemplary bassinet.
[0021] FIGS. 7 and 8 are perspective side views of another
exemplary bassinet.
[0022] FIG. 9 is a plan view of an exemplary die cut sheet for
forming the bassinet of FIGS. 2A-2C.
[0023] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like
elements. It should also be noted that the accompanying drawing
figures referred to herein are not all drawn to scale and may be
exaggerated to illustrate various aspects of the present
disclosure, and in that regard, the drawing figures should not be
construed as limiting.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0024] Referring to FIGS. 1A-1B, an exemplary bassinet system 100
provided herein provides a temporary and easily transportable, safe
sleeping area for a child 10 (e.g., an infant). In some cases, the
bassinet system 100 provided herein can provide a low cost, safe
environment for the child 10. In some cases, the child 10 may about
or be less than about six months of age. In some cases, the child
10 may be about or less than one years old and have limited
mobility. For example, the system provided herein may be
appropriate for a child 10 who is yet unable to push up on his or
her hands and knees, or unable to turn over. In some cases, the
child 10 may be of less than a predetermined weight (e.g., less
than 30 pounds (lbs.), less than 25 lbs., less than 20 lbs., less
than 15 lbs., less than 10 lbs., or less than 7 lbs.).
[0025] The bassinet system 100 can include an easy-to-assemble
bassinet 110, handles 120 to facilitate easy gripping, and a
mattress 130 for providing a soft bedding material. The bassinet
110 may include two elongate slots 140, where each slot can
optionally receive a corresponding handle 120. The bassinet 110
defines an open top for receiving the mattress 130, and the child
10, and an interior cavity 150 with a flat base surface for which
the mattress 130 may be disposed thereon.
[0026] Referring to FIGS. 2A-2C, an exemplary bassinet 110 provided
herein includes four angled walls 160, 162 extending from a flat
base 164 to form the interior cavity 150 with an open top. As shown
in FIG. 2A, the outer perimeter of bassinet 110 can have a
generally rectangular shape. The bassinet 110 can include two slots
140, one slot 140 at each end wall 160, to provide gripping areas
for the caretaker (e.g., a parent or guardian) to lift and carry
the bassinet 110. The bassinet 110 can optionally also include two
attachable handles 120 that can be positioned into each slot
140.
[0027] The bassinet 110 can include any suitable size for receiving
the child (e.g., the child 10 of FIGS. 1A and 1B) of a desired age
range (e.g., a child of six months of age or younger) and/or weight
(e.g., less than 25 lbs.). The bassinet 110 may include appropriate
dimensions (e.g., such as a width "W", a height "H", and a length
"L", as depicted in FIGS. 2A and 2B) that would be appropriately
size for the child. For example, in some cases, the bassinet 110
can have a width ranging from about 13 inches to about 45 inches
(e.g., from about 13 inches to about 35 inches, from about 15
inches to about 25 inches, from about 16 inches to about 20 inches,
from about 18 inches to about 40 inches, from about 20 inches to
about 30 inches, or from 20 inches to about 40 inches). In some
cases, the bassinet can have a length ranging from about 20 inches
to about 50 inches (e.g., about 22 inches to about 40 inches, from
about 24 inches to about 35 inches, or from about 26 inches to
about 31 inches). In some cases, the bassinet can have a height
ranging from about 8 inches to about 15 inches (e.g., from about 9
inches to about 13 inches, or from about 10 inches to about 12
inches).
[0028] In some cases, the bassinet 110 provided herein include four
angled walls 160, 162. In particular, the bassinet 110 can include
two angled end walls 160 and two angled side walls 162. In some
cases, the bassinet 110 can include two angled walls 160, 162 and
two non-angled vertical walls (not shown). At least two of, or each
of the angled walls, can have an angle (e.g., see ".alpha..sub.1"
or ".alpha..sub.2" in FIGS. 2B and 2C) of greater than 90 degrees
(e.g., about or greater than 92 degrees, about or greater than 95
degrees, about or greater than 97 degrees, about or greater than 98
degrees, about or greater than 99 degrees, about or greater than
100 degrees, about or greater than 105 degrees, about or greater
than 110 degrees, or about or greater than 120 degrees) relative to
the flat base 164. In some cases, at least two of, or each of the
angled walls 160, 162, can range from about 95 degrees to about 140
degrees (e.g., from about 96 degrees to about 130 degrees, from
about 97 degrees to about 120 degrees, or from about 98 degrees to
about 100 degrees) relative to the flat base 164. In some cases,
the end walls 160 and the side walls 162 of the bassinet 110 can
have approximately equivalent angles relative to the base 164. In
some cases, the side walls 162 and the end walls 160 can have
different angles relative to the base 164. For example, in some
cases, the side walls 162 may be sloped at a greater angle than the
end walls 160, or vice versa.
[0029] The angled walls 160, 162 of the bassinet 110 can provide
the advantage of facilitating the disbursement of carbon dioxide
away from the interior cavity 150 of the bassinet 110. Unlike a
square-shaped box having right-angled side walls, the angled walls
160, 162 of the bassinet 110 provided herein provides a sloped
surface that can reduce the formations of eddy currents within the
interior cavity 150 of the bassinet 110. Eddy currents can trap
gases within the interior cavity 150. Thus, the prevention of the
eddy currents within the interior cavity 150 can promote increased
air flow through the interior cavity 150. Accordingly, when the
child (e.g., the child 10 of FIGS. 1A and 1B) is placed within the
interior cavity 150 of the bassinet 110, the angled walls 160, 162
of the bassinet system 100 can help mitigate the risks of exposing
the child to undesirable levels of carbon dioxide gas.
[0030] FIGS. 3A and 3B are plan and side views of an exemplary
foldable die cut sheet 170 configured to form an open top bassinet
(e.g., see bassinet 110 in FIGS. 2A-2C) for receiving a child
(e.g., the child 10 of FIGS. 1A and 1B) when in an operative
position. An operative position of the bassinet is when the die cut
sheet 170 in a folded configuration that forms the bassinet. The
sheet 170 may include one or more fold lines (e.g., base panel fold
lines 172, 173), cut lines 174, and/or score lines (not shown) to
facilitate proper assembly of the bassinet. In some cases, the die
cut sheet 170 includes a plurality of panels 180, 182, 184
connected by fold lines. Certain embodiments of the die cut sheet
170 can include a base panel 180, two end panels 182, and two side
panels 184. The two opposing side panels 184 and the two opposing
end panels 182 are of the same size and cut, respectively.
[0031] In various embodiments, the base panel 180 can be adapted to
form a flat, bottom wall 164 of the bassinet 110 for receiving the
mattress 130. The base panel 180 can be a centrally located panel
connected to each of the side panels 184 and end panels 182. The
base panel 180 can be defined by a pair of transverse edges defined
by spaced, parallel, transverse fold lines 173 that extend along a
transverse direction and a pair of longitudinal edges defined by
longitudinal fold lines 172 that extend along a longitudinal
direction. The spacing of the two pairs or sets of fold lines 172,
173 are dimensioned to define the base panel 180 having a
rectangular shape. In some cases, the base panel 180 can be
configured to form a square-shaped base, with the associated panels
properly dimensioned for the fabrication of a square-shaped
bassinet.
[0032] The end panels 182 can define the width and height
dimensions of the bassinet (e.g., the bassinet of FIGS. 2A-2C).
Each end panel 182 can extend from a respective one of the
transverse fold lines 173 of the base panel 180. Each end panel 182
may include a primary portion 186 hingedly connected at an
transverse fold line 173 and a reinforcing portion 188 hingedly
connected to the primary portion 186 at an end transverse fold line
190. Each primary portion 186 and each reinforcing portion 188 of
each end panel 182 can define a trapezoidal shape configured to
form outwardly angled end walls of the bassinet (e.g., see end
walls 160 of FIG. 2A). The reinforcing portion 188 of the end panel
182 can be configured to fold along the end transverse fold line
190 to engage with portions of the side panel 184, as will be
discussed further in sections below.
[0033] In some cases, the trapezoidal shape of the primary portion
186 of each said end panel 182 can be partially defined by cut
lines 174 that extend in an outwardly diverging relation from an
intersection of the transverse fold lines 173 and the longitudinal
fold lines 172 of the base panel 180. The cut lines 174 extend
between a connecting portion 196 (which will be discussed in later
sections) of the side panel 184 and primary portion 186 of the end
panel 182. The cut lines 174 of the end panel 182 can set the slope
of the angled walls of the bassinet. In some cases, each cut line
174 extends at an angle "Ll" ranging from about 92 degrees to about
120 degrees relative to the transverse fold lines 173 of the base
panel. In some cases, each cut line 174 can extend at an angle
ranging from about 95 degrees to about 100 degrees relative to the
transverse fold lines 173 of the base panel 180.
[0034] The end panel 182 of the die cut sheet 170 can optionally
include a pair of slot openings 140 to allow the caretaker to
easily grasp the bassinet. In particular, each of the primary and
reinforcing portions 186, 188 of each end panel 182 can include a
complementary slot opening 140, such that the two slot openings 140
align when the reinforcing portion 188 is folded over the primary
portion 186. In some cases, the slot opening 140 has a width that
can range from about 3.5 to about 4.5 inches and a height that can
range from about 1 inch to about 2 inches. In some cases, each side
panel 184 can optionally include a pair of slot openings 140 for
easy gripping.
[0035] The end panel 182 can have a minimum transverse dimension
"T.sub.min" and a maximum transverse dimension "T.sub.max," and a
difference therebetween that sets the slope of the angled end walls
of the bassinet. In some cases, the ratio of a minimum transverse
dimension of the end panel to a maximum transverse dimension of the
end panel 182 can range from about 0.80 to about 0.99. In some
cases, the ratio of a minimum transverse dimension of the end panel
to a maximum transverse dimension of the end panel can range from
about 0.95 to about 0.98.
[0036] The side panel 184 can define the length and height
dimensions (e.g., see "L" and "H" of FIG. 2A) of the bassinet. The
longitudinal dimension of the side panels 184 can be larger than
the transverse dimension of the end panels 182 to form a
rectangular-shaped bassinet. For example, in some cases, the ratio
of a maximum transverse dimension "Tmax" of the end panel 182 to a
maximum longitudinal dimension "Lmax" of the side panel 184 can
range from about 1.5 to about 1.75.
[0037] Each side panel 184 can extend from a respective one of the
longitudinal fold lines 172 of the base panel 180. Each side panel
184 can include a sidewall primary portion 192, two connecting
portions 196, and one sidewall reinforcing portion 194. Each of the
primary and reinforcing portions 192, 194 of the side panel 184 can
define a trapezoidal shape configured to form outwardly angled side
walls of the bassinet (e.g., see side walls 162 in FIG. 2A). The
primary portion 192, the reinforcing portion 194, and the
connecting portion 196 of the each side panel 182 can be folded to
engage the side panel 184 with the end panels 182 and the base
panel 180.
[0038] The side panel 184 can have a minimum longitudinal dimension
"L.sub.min" and a maximum longitudinal dimension "L.sub.max," where
the difference therebetween determines the slope of the angled side
walls of the bassinet (e.g., see side walls 162 in FIG. 2A). In
some cases, a ratio of a minimum longitudinal dimension of the side
panel 184 to a maximum longitudinal dimension of the side panel can
range from about 0.75 to about 0.95. In some cases, the ratio of a
minimum longitudinal dimension of the side panel to a maximum
longitudinal dimension of the side panel 184 can range from about
0.88 to about 0.93.
[0039] The die cut sheet 170 can be made from one of various types
of material. In some cases, the die cut sheet can be made from a
combination of materials. Suitable materials can include including
paper (e.g., corrugated cardboard), wood (e.g., bamboo), plastic
(e.g., polypropylene, polyethylene, silicone, polyurethane, or the
like), or a light-weight metal (e.g., aluminum, magnesium,
titanium, and beryllium, or combinations thereof, or alloys
thereof). Preferably, the die cut sheet 170 comprises corrugated
cardboard because it is both a highly economical and light-weight
material. In some cases, the die cut sheet 170 can be made of a
recycled or recyclable material (e.g., recycled or recyclable
corrugated cardboard).
[0040] In some cases, a surface of the die cut sheet 170 provided
herein can include one or more labels. In some cases, the label can
be in the form of a sticker and applied onto the surface of the
sheet 170. In some cases, the label can be printed directly onto a
surface of the sheet 170. The labels can include, but are not
limited to, product information (e.g., batch information,
manufacturing date, or the like), manufacturer information,
decorative designs, warnings labels, and/or instructions for use.
In some cases, the label on the die cut sheet 170 can include an
embossed or textured surface, or a gloss or matte finish. In some
cases, at least a portion of the surface of the die cut sheet 170
can include a painted surface or a printed surface.
[0041] Referring to FIG. 3B, the die cut sheet 170 provided herein
can have a uniform thickness. The die cut sheet 170 can have any
suitable thickness for providing the required strength to support a
bassinet holding the child. The thickness of the die cut sheet 170
can be a predetermined thickness based on a desired weight rating
for satisfying an appropriate regulatory standard. In some cases, a
suitable thickness range of the die cut sheet can range from about
0.5 mm to about 5 mm (e.g., from about 1 mm to about 4 mm, from
about 1 mm to about 3 mm, from about 1 mm to about 2 mm, from about
0.5 mm to about 2 mm, or from about 0.5 mm to about 1 mm).
Preferably, in some cases, the sheet 170 can include any thickness
value between from about 0.5 mm to about 2 mm.
[0042] FIGS. 4A-4D illustrate how the exemplary die cut sheet 170
of FIGS. 3A-3B can be folded and assembled to form the exemplary
bassinet 110 of FIG. 2A-2C. In some cases, the die cut sheet 170
provided herein can include a plurality of fold lines to facilitate
facile assembly of the bassinet. In some cases, the die cut sheet
170 can also include one or more score lines to facilitate the
removal of one or more portions or sections of the die cut sheet
170 (e.g., portions of the die cut sheet defining the slots 140 can
be scored or cut to facilitate removal of material). In some cases,
the assembly of the bassinet provided herein can include adhesive
tabs or strips 198 positioned in predesignated locations along the
pre-cut sheet 170, or applicable in any location along the die cut
sheet 170.
[0043] Referring to FIG. 4A, assembly of the bassinet can include
folding and adjoining the connecting portions 196 of the side
panels 184. In some cases, as shown, each of the connecting
portions 196 of the side panels 184 can be folded at an angle of
about 90 degrees relative to the plane of the primary portion 192
of the corresponding side panel 184. Free ends of opposing
connecting portions 196 can be joined together by pivoting the
folded connecting portions 196 (depicted by arrows in FIG. 4A)
about the pivot point "P" located at the intersections of the
transverse fold lines and the longitudinal fold lines of the base
panel.
[0044] Referring to FIG. 4B, each end panel 182 can be folded along
its transverse fold line "T" such that the reinforcing portion 188
is folded over the connecting portions (not shown) of the side
panels 184. One or more tape strips 198 (e.g., one, two, three,
four, five, or more than five) may be used to secure the end panel
in its folded configuration.
[0045] Referring to FIG. 4C, the reinforcing portions 194 of the
side panels 184 can be folded into place to form the bassinet 110.
In particular, each reinforcing portions 194 of the side panel 184
can be along its longitudinal fold line "L" such that the
reinforcing portions 194 fold inwardly into the interior cavity
150. One or more tape strips 198 (e.g., one, two, three, four,
five, or more than five) may be used to secure any one of the side
panels 184 and/or end panels 182 in its folded configuration.
[0046] In some cases, the folded configuration of the bassinet 110
can be maintained without the use of one or more fasteners. For
example, in some cases, the bassinet 110 may be secured into its
folded form by an interference fit of one or more folded panels. In
some cases, the bassinet 110 may be bonded by use of an adhesive
(e.g., pressure-sensitive tape strip, hot melt, adhesive paste,
curable adhesive, or a UV adhesive) to maintain its folded form. In
some cases, portions of the bassinet 110 may be coupled together by
one or more mechanical fasteners (e.g., staples, string, ribbon,
hooks, or the like).
[0047] Still referring to FIG. 4C, the method of assembling the
bassinet system can optionally include attaching handles 120 to the
bassinet 110 to provide a more comfortable gripping area for the
user. The bassinet can include any number of handles (e.g., one,
two, or more than two handles) and configuration of handles (e.g.,
handles located on any one or more walls of the bassinet). In some
cases, the assembly of the handle 120 can include connecting mating
components of a two-piece handle 120. For example, one portion of
the handle 120a may be inserted through the slot opening at each
end panel 182 and then connected to the other portion 120b inserted
through the opposite side of the slot opening 140. Alternatively,
in some cases, a handle 120 may be a single piece made of an
elastomeric material that is flexible enough to flex and conform
into each slot opening 140. The handles 120 can advantageously
provide a soft material for gripping as well as a smooth gripping
surface to increase the user's comfort when the user grabs and
moves the bassinet system 100 from one location to another
location.
[0048] Referring to FIG. 4D, the mattress 130 may optionally be
placed into the interior cavity 150 of the bassinet 110 to form the
system 100 provided herein. In some cases, the mattress 130 may be
snuggly seated into the base surface of the bassinet 110 or placed
loosely onto the base surface, depending on the relative sizing of
the mattress area relative to the surface area of the interior
cavity 150 at the base surface.
[0049] Referring to FIGS. 5A-5D, the bassinet and systems 100
provided herein can optionally include an exemplary accessory
electronic device 200. In some cases, the electronic accessory
device 200 may comprise a light that is conveniently positioned on
one of the angled walls and configured to illuminate the interior
cavity 150 of the bassinet 110. In certain embodiments, the
accessory electronic device 200 may be anchored onto a portion
(e.g., a wall) of the bassinet 110. The accessory electronic device
200 can be a battery-operated device adapted to illuminate an area
around or inside the bassinet when the bassinet 110 is in a dark
room. The light from the accessory electronic device 200 can
provide added convenience for the caretaker, as well as allow the
caretaker to visually check the position of the child within the
bassinet 110 in a dark room.
[0050] In some cases, the accessory electronic device 200 can
include a speaker for providing music to soothe the child in the
bassinet. In some cases, the accessory electronic device 200 can be
a speaker that allows the caretaker to speak to the child in the
bassinet from a separate receiver at a different location.
[0051] Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the accessory electronic
device 200 is anchored to one end wall of the bassinet 110. The
accessory electronic device 200, in some cases, may be positioned
at any location along at least one wall of the bassinet 110.
Certain embodiments of the bassinet 110 can include multiple
accessory electronic devices 200 (e.g., two, three, four, five, or
more than five accessory electronic devices).
[0052] FIGS. 5C and 5D show components of the exemplary accessory
electronic device 200. In some embodiments, the accessory
electronic device 200 may be a device that can be partially
advanced through an aperture (not shown) defined in one or more
walls of the bassinet 110. One or more apertures can be defined by
a pair of through-holes in the end panels and/or the side panels of
the bassinet 110.
[0053] As shown, the depicted accessory electronic device 200
includes a main body 205 having a head portion 207 and a neck
portion 208, and a connector 210. The head portion 207 of the
accessory electronic device 200 may further include a compressible
face 212 that can be pushed to switch the accessory electronic
device 200 from an on-state to an off-state, or vice versa. The
face 212 of the accessory electronic device 200 may be supported by
an internal spring (not shown) that allows the face 212 to be
compressed (see depicted arrow in FIG. 5B) for actuating a switch
within the main body 205. In some cases, the main body 205
optionally includes an accessible battery compartment that can be
opened by a user when a battery replacement is required.
[0054] The neck portion 208 of the main body 205 can be shaped and
sized for placement in the aperture in the bassinet wall from the
interior cavity. The neck portion 208 can be sized such that a free
end of the neck portion 208 extends from an opposite side of the
wall when inserted through the aperture. The neck portion 208 of
the main body 205 and the connector 210 can be mated together by
complementary fasteners. For example, in some cases, the neck
portion 208 of the main body 205 may include a threaded male
portion that is coupleable with a threaded female portion of the
connector 210. In some cases, the neck portion 208 of main body 205
may include other types of fastening mechanisms, such as beading
(not shown) that extends about the circumference of the neck
portion 208 and configured to form an interference fit with a
female portion of the connector 210. In some cases, the neck
portion 208 of the main body 205 can include one or more outwardly
extending prongs (not shown) that locks the connector 210 in place
when advanced over the neck portion 208.
[0055] In some cases, the accessory electronic device 200 may
include only a head portion (i.e., no neck portion) with a
compressible front face and a rigid, flat rear face. The rear face
can include an adhesive backing configured for adhesively bonding
the head portion to a wall of the bassinet without requiring use of
an aperture.
[0056] FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 7-9 show various embodiments of a bassinet
with features (e.g., apertures, slots, mesh-reinforcement, or
ventilation devices) for further promoting air flow through its
interior cavity. Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, in some cases, the
bassinet 310 can include walls defining one or more venting
apertures. In some cases, a plurality of apertures can be defined
along one wall (e.g., a side wall or an end wall) of the bassinet
310. In some cases, the apertures can be defined along two or more
walls, or each of the walls. In some cases, the apertures can be
defined along the base of the bassinet 310. In some cases, the
apertures can be defined along the wall in an orderly pattern. In
some cases, the apertures can be defined randomly along the wall.
The venting apertures can promote and increase air flow through the
interior cavity of the bassinet.
[0057] The apertures can have various suitable shapes and sizes.
The apertures can be defined in one of various shapes, such as
circular, square-shaped, oval, triangular, or the like. In some
cases, the apertures can be irregularly-shaped. Each aperture can
have a maximum dimension (e.g., diameter) ranging from about 0.5
millimeters (mm) to about 50 mm (e.g., from about 1 mm to about 10
mm, from about 10 mm to about 20 mm, from about 20 mm to about 50
mm, from about 1 mm to about 5 mm, or from about 1 mm to about 3
mm).
[0058] Referring to FIG. 7, an exemplary bassinet 410 may include a
plurality of elongate slots having a mesh insert therein. The
bassinet 410 may include one or more slots expose an interior mesh
material that is either embedded within the bassinet wall, or
coupled to a surface of one or more bassinet walls. The mesh can be
made of a fibrous material (e.g., nylon). The mesh-reinforced slots
can be defined along any one or more walls, or the base, of the
bassinet 410. The mesh-reinforced slots can include any suitable
shape and size for promoting and increasing air flow through the
interior cavity of the bassinet 410.
[0059] Referring to FIG. 8, an exemplary bassinet 510 may include
at least one ventilation device coupled to one or more walls of the
bassinet 510. Each venting device can include a body having
elongate ventilating slots extending in a horizontal, a vertical,
or an angled direction. The ventilation device can be defined along
any one or more walls, or the base, of the bassinet 510. The
ventilation device can include any suitable shape (e.g., circular,
oval, rectangular, or the like) and size (e.g., about 1 inch) for
promoting and increasing air flow through the interior cavity of
the bassinet 510
[0060] Referring to FIG. 9, an exemplary foldable die cut sheet 670
is configured to form an open top bassinet (e.g., see bassinet 110
in FIGS. 2A-2C) for receiving a child (e.g., the child 10 of FIGS.
1A and 1B) when in an operative position. The foldable die cut
sheet 670 includes many features already discussed and shown in the
exemplary foldable die cut sheet 170 of FIG. 3A, with exception of
connecting tabs 690 and receiving slots 692 that are discussed in
the following sections.
[0061] The die cut sheet 670, when in the operative position, is in
a folded configuration that forms the bassinet. The sheet 670 may
include one or more fold lines (e.g., base panel fold lines 672,
673), cut lines 674, and/or score lines (not shown) to facilitate
proper assembly of the bassinet. The die cut sheet 670 includes a
plurality of panels 680, 682, 684 connected by fold lines. For
example, the depicted die cut sheet 670 includes a base panel 180,
end panels 682, and side panels 684. The die cuit sheet 670 has
opposing side panels 684 and opposing end panels 682 that are of
the same size and cut, respectively. The bassinet 670 can include a
connecting means on one or more of the side and end panels.
[0062] Still referring to FIG. 9, the die cut sheet 670 includes
four tabs 690 and four receiving slots 692 that provide a
connecting means for the side and/or end panels. Each tab 690 is
sized and shaped to insert into a corresponding mating receiving
slot 692. Each tab 690 is coupled to the side panel 684, or the end
panels 682 of the die cut sheet 670. The receiving slots 692 are
located along a folding edge (e.g., base panel fold lines 672, 673)
or proximate to the folding edge. In some embodiments, the die cut
sheet 670 can include one or more tabs 690 and one or more
receiving slots 692 (e.g., two, three, four, five, six, seven,
eight, nine, ten, or greater than ten tabs 690 and/or receiving
slots 692). Each tab 690 can be placed on any one panel (e.g.,
along an edge of any one panel), and each slot can be placed in any
location on the die cut sheet 670 that allows for mating between
the slot 692 and a corresponding tab 690. The tabs 690 and
receiving slots 692 provide a quick and facile means for securing
the die cut sheet 670 in the operative position.
[0063] A number of embodiments of the invention have been
described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various
modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the
invention. Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of
the following claims.
* * * * *