U.S. patent application number 15/549800 was filed with the patent office on 2018-02-08 for breathable baby crib with layered detachable mesh walls.
The applicant listed for this patent is Linsay Michelle Bass-Conn. Invention is credited to Linsay Michelle Bass-Conn.
Application Number | 20180035821 15/549800 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 56614723 |
Filed Date | 2018-02-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180035821 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bass-Conn; Linsay Michelle |
February 8, 2018 |
Breathable Baby Crib With Layered Detachable Mesh Walls
Abstract
A modular crib assembly with structures for providing layered,
detachable mesh walls and other safety features is described. An
optional insert for smaller children and a kit comprising the
assembly components are further described.
Inventors: |
Bass-Conn; Linsay Michelle;
(Okemos, MI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Bass-Conn; Linsay Michelle |
Okemos |
MI |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
56614723 |
Appl. No.: |
15/549800 |
Filed: |
February 2, 2016 |
PCT Filed: |
February 2, 2016 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US16/16138 |
371 Date: |
August 9, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62113996 |
Feb 9, 2015 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47C 21/08 20130101;
A47D 7/00 20130101; A47D 15/008 20130101; A47D 9/00 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47D 9/00 20060101
A47D009/00; A47D 15/00 20060101 A47D015/00 |
Claims
1. A modular crib assembly comprising a framework comprising a
base, an upper railing, and three or more supports, each connecting
the base to the upper railing and being attached to each of the
base and the upper railing; an inner breathable mesh wall
detachably attached to both the upper railing and the base and
extending from the base to the upper railing so that the base and
the inner breathable mesh wall taken together define a primary
containment area and the inner breathable mesh wall is spaced apart
from and reduces or eliminates occupant contact with the supports;
and an outer breathable mesh wall detachably attached to both the
upper railing and the base and extending from the base to the upper
railing so as to be spaced apart from the inner breathable mesh
wall and laterally surrounding both the inner breathable mesh wall
and the primary containment area.
2. (canceled)
3. The modular crib assembly according to claim 1 wherein at least
one of the supports comprises an inner surface proximate to the
inner breathable wall when the crib is assembled, the inner surface
being at least partially concave.
4. The modular crib assembly according to claim 3 wherein each of
the supports comprises an inner surface proximate to the inner
breathable wall when the crib is assembled, the inner surface being
at least partially concave.
5. The modular crib assembly according to claim 1, wherein the
inner and outer walls are spaced apart by a distance in the range
of about 1 to about 12 inches.
6. The modular crib assembly according to claim 1, wherein the
inner breathable mesh wall forms a continuous breathable mesh
lateral boundary around the primary containment area.
7. The modular crib assembly according to claim 1, wherein a
portion of an upper surface of the base is recessed so that the
upper surface defines a seat sized to receive a mattress to inhibit
lateral movement of the mattress relative to the base when the
mattress is received into the seat.
8. The modular crib assembly according to claim 7, wherein a top of
the mattress is flush with a top of the base when the mattress is
seated in the seat.
9. The modular crib assembly according to claim 7, further
comprising a mattress received in the seat of the base.
10. The modular crib assembly according to claim 9, wherein the
mattress is sized to fit into the seat so as to minimize the
presence of any gap between an outer side wall of the mattress and
an inner side wall defining the seat of the base.
11. The modular crib assembly according to claim 1, further
comprising one or more visually perceptible images formed on each
of the outer and inner mesh walls, the images being disposed at
locations around the inner mesh wall containment area and around
the outer mesh wall containment area and configured so as to
provide a three dimensional-type visual effect when viewed from a
point of view that is either outside of or within the primary
containment area.
12. The modular crib assembly according to claim 1, wherein each of
the inner and the outer mesh walls define an opening so that when
the assembly is assembled, the opening provides a passageway from
the primary containment area and through the inner and outer mesh
walls at a vertical location at or above an upper surface of the
base.
13. The modular crib assembly according to claim 1, further
comprising one or more upper railing covers sized and configured to
conceal a location of attachment of the upper edge of the inner
mesh wall to the upper railing and to conceal a location of the
upper edge of the outer mesh wall to the upper railing.
14. The modular crib assembly according to claim 1, further
comprising a crib insert, which comprises a crib insert frame and a
crib insert breathable sleeping surface supported by the crib
insert frame, the crib insert being sized and configured to fit
within the primary containment area when the assembly is assembled
and to define a secondary containment area elevated above the base
and within the primary containment area.
15. The modular crib assembly according to claim 14, further
comprising a crib insert breathable sheet detachably attachable to
the crib insert sleeping surface and crib insert frame.
16. A modular crib assembly kit comprising framework components
comprising a base, an upper railing, and three or more supports,
each support being adapted to connect the base to the upper railing
and detachably attachable to each of the base and the upper
railing; an inner breathable mesh wall detachably attachable to the
base and the upper railing, and when assembled the inner mesh wall
defines an inner perimeter and extends from the base to the upper
railing and, when taken together with the base, defines a primary
containment area; and an outer breathable mesh wall detachably
attachable to the base and the upper railing, and when assembled
the outer mesh wall defines an outer perimeter and extends from the
base to the upper railing and is spaced apart from the inner
breathable mesh wall and laterally surrounds both the inner
breathable mesh wall and the primary containment area; wherein the
inner and outer breathable mesh walls and the base and upper
railing are configured so that, when the assembly is assembled, the
inner and outer breathable mesh walls are attached to and extend
from the upper railing to the base and the inner breathable mesh
wall is spaced apart from and reduces or eliminates occupant
contact with the supports.
17. (canceled)
18. The modular crib assembly kit according to claim 16 wherein at
least one of the supports comprises an inner surface proximate to
the inner breathable wall when the crib is assembled, the inner
surface being at least partially concave.
19. The modular crib assembly kit according to claim 18 wherein
each of the supports comprises an inner surface proximate to the
inner breathable wall when the crib is assembled, the inner surface
being at least partially concave.
20. The modular crib assembly kit according to claim 16, wherein
the kit components are sized and configured so that, when
assembled, the inner and outer walls are spaced apart by a distance
in the range of about 1 to about 12 inches.
21. The modular crib assembly kit according to claim 16, wherein
the kit components are sized and configured so that, when
assembled, the inner breathable mesh wall forms a continuous
breathable mesh lateral boundary around the primary containment
area.
22. The modular crib assembly kit according to claim 16, wherein a
portion of an upper surface of the base is recessed so that the
upper surface of the base defines a seat sized to receive a
mattress to inhibit lateral movement of the mattress relative to
the base when the mattress is received into the seat.
23. The modular crib assembly kit according to claim 22, wherein a
top of the mattress is flush with a top of the base when the
mattress is seated in the seat.
24. The modular crib assembly kit according to claim 22, further
comprising a mattress sized to be received in the seat of the
base.
25. The modular crib assembly kit according to claim 24, wherein
the mattress is sized to fit into the seat so as to minimize the
presence of any gap between an outer side wall of the mattress and
an inner side wall defining the seat of the base.
26. The modular crib assembly kit according to claim 16, further
comprising one or more visually perceptible images formed on each
of the outer and inner mesh walls, the images being disposed at
locations around the inner mesh wall containment area and around
the outer mesh wall containment area and configured so as to
provide a three dimensional-type visual effect when viewed from a
point of view that is either outside of or within the primary
containment area.
27. The modular crib assembly kit according to claim 16, wherein
each of the inner and the outer mesh walls define an opening so
that when the kit is assembled, the opening provides a passageway
from the primary containment area and through the inner and outer
mesh walls at a vertical location at or above an upper surface of
the base.
28. The modular crib assembly kit according to claim 16, further
comprising one or more upper railing covers sized and configured to
conceal a location of attachment of the upper edge of the inner
mesh wall to the upper railing and to conceal a location of the
upper edge of the outer mesh wall to the upper railing.
29. The modular crib assembly kit according to claim 16, further
comprising a crib insert, which comprises a crib insert frame and a
crib insert breathable sleeping surface supported by the crib
insert frame, the crib insert being sized and configured to fit
within the primary containment area and to define a secondary
containment area elevated above the base and within the primary
containment area when the kit is assembled.
30. The modular crib assembly kit according to claim 29, further
comprising a crib insert breathable sheet detachably attachable to
the crib insert sleeping surface and crib insert frame.
31. (canceled)
32. (canceled)
33. (canceled)
Description
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Claim is hereby made to the benefit of the priority of
co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Appl. No. 62/113,996, filed on
Feb. 9, 2015, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by
reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] This section introduces information from the inventor's own
observations leading up to her invention, and from the art that may
be related to or provide context for some aspects of the systems,
apparatus and/or methods described and/or claimed herein. This
information is background in the sense that it facilitates a better
understanding of that which is disclosed and ultimately claimed
herein. This discussion may include observations made by the
inventor that were not necessarily evident to those of skill in the
art at the time of the invention, as well as observations of
"related" art. That such art may be related in no way implies that
it is also "prior" art. The related art may or may not be prior
art. The discussion in this section therefore is to be read in this
light, and not viewed as an admission of prior art.
[0003] Enclosures and cribs are used to keep infants and toddlers
confined for their own safety during sleep and light playtime.
However, such enclosures have heretofore raised safety concerns.
Currently, most standard sized cribs are designed to include rigid
structural elements, such as corner posts containing sharp edges
and a hard opaque slotted railing system that creates the enclosure
of a mattress. Most cribs are also designed to include multiple
mattress level settings, to which the caregiver of a child is meant
to continue lowering in height as the child develops in size and
coordination.
[0004] Sadly, each structural element of current standard sized
cribs for infants and toddlers have caused crib related injuries
and fatalities. In the United States alone, there are close to
10,000 documented crib related injuries per year. These injuries
include, but are not limited to, head and neck injuries such as
soft tissue damage and concussions, body impact wounds and
lacerations, as well as limb and extremity injuries. (See,
http://pediatrics.aappublications.org, last visited on Jan. 17,
2016.) In addition to crib related injuries, there are
approximately 3500 Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths (SUID) annually
in the United States. Commonly reported types of SUID cases include
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), which is often linked to the
surroundings of the infant, and accidental suffocation and
strangulation in bed. (See, http://www.cdc.gov.sids.data.htm, last
visited on Jan. 17, 2016.) These alarming statistics illuminate the
urgent need of a safer crib design.
[0005] The following paragraphs outline the ways in which the
structural elements of current cribs and enclosures are essentially
damaging to infants, toddlers and their families and furthermore
outlines why a new and safer crib design must be considered
[0006] Hard and sharp corner posts and slotted railings of current
cribs are often the cause of head and body impact wounds as well as
limb breakages, sprains and fractures. As a baby reaches the
milestones of pushing up, rolling over, rocking on hands and knees,
crawling, sitting up, pulling up to a stand and finally walking,
running and jumping, they practice these skills everywhere and
anywhere. Many parents have experienced the horrible sound of their
child suffering an impact wound when their baby or toddler has hit
his/her head on the hard surface of the crib railings and sharp
corners of the posts. This occurs during sleep as well as at play,
as many babies and toddlers move about in their sleep. Many times
children get their extremities stuck between the slotted railings
and between the mattress and the railings. Many limb injuries occur
from a parent's effort to release the child's limb from between the
railings. In addition, limb injuries occur when a baby reaches
through the crib railings and an older child pulls on the baby's
limb from outside the crib, causing the limb to bend in too awkward
a position.
[0007] To prevent impact and limb injuries due to hard, sharp and
slotted railings and posts, parents attach a "crib bumper" to the
crib. Most crib bumpers on the market today are long rectangular
opaque pillow like contraptions, made to sit nearest to the
mattress and encircle the inner perimeter of the crib. Most are
made to tie or Velcro onto the railings of the crib. Crib bumpers
have created even MORE risk and resulted in even MORE injuries and
fatalities. Crib bumpers are never an exact fit on every crib and
therefore become distorted as children pull at the contraption.
Mobile babies and toddlers get their limbs caught between the crib
bumper and the posts and railings of the crib, resulting in limb
injuries. Many ambitious babies and toddlers succeed at detaching
the crib bumpers from the railings and as they are playing with the
contraption they become tangled, which has led to strangulation and
suffocation. Many use the bumper to climb on, in an effort to get
out of the crib, which leads to impact wounds upon falling out from
the top opening of the crib.
[0008] Children in early infancy have died from positional asphyxia
and suffocation when they have gotten their faces caught up against
an opaque and thick crib bumper. A "breathable crib bumper" made of
breathable mesh is on the market. However, it is so thin that it
does not prevent impact injury against the hard posts and railings
of the crib. Furthermore, the breathable crib bumper is just as
easy for babies and toddlers to distort and detach from the crib,
presenting the same injuries that may occur from opaque pillow-like
crib bumpers. Because of the great risk imposed by ALL crib bumpers
on the market, the American Academy of Pediatrics fervently
recommends that parents never attach ANY crib bumper during ANY
stage of infancy or toddlerhood.
[0009] The use of multiple mattress level settings has also been
the cause of impact and limb injuries. Most cribs offer up to
three, or even four, mattress level settings. The highest setting
(closest to the top opening of the crib) is meant to be used when
the child is in early infancy and still immobile. As the child
grows in size and begins to reach gross motor skill milestones,
such as rolling over, rocking on hands and knees, sitting and
pulling up, etc., the caregiver lowers the mattress level to an
appropriate height so that a mobile infant or toddler cannot climb
and/or fall out of the crib. However, babies reach these milestones
at a myriad of stages throughout their first months and first years
of life. Caregivers cannot always predict when their child will
reach a given milestone and are often surprised by a baby pulling
up in his/her crib before the mattress has been lowered. The result
is often that the child falls out of the crib and suffers an impact
injury or worse.
[0010] In addition to crib related accidents occurring when young
children reach gross motor skill milestones, injuries also occur
when babies and toddlers reach emotional and mental milestones and
become more alert. As a child develops mentally, they become more
prone to physically "acting out" or experience a "tantrum" when
they do not get what they want or when they feel emotionally
vulnerable. Babies and toddlers often tantrum when they are
separated from their caretakers and put in their cribs for sleep or
play. Quite commonly, an emotionally vulnerable or upset baby or
toddler will flail their extremities and bang their heads
repeatedly on their crib in rebellion.
[0011] Healthy developing children often experience this kind of
behavior throughout later infancy and toddlerhood. Children who
suffer from physical conditions, such as seizures, or conditions
that cause repeated and/or involuntary movement may experience this
kind of repeated action even more so. Given the hard and sharp
structural elements of current cribs, ALL developing children are
at serious risk of dangerous and repeated impact injury as they
experience the stages of physical AND emotional growth.
[0012] Infants and toddlers alike often lack strength and muscle
coordination to maneuver their own weight around in a controlled
fashion as they reach physical developmental milestones.
Furthermore, babies and toddlers alike, tend to display their
emotional milestones in a physical manner. Because of this, babies
and toddlers endure a significant amount of injury and sadly
fatality, if and when they are placed in an area that is unsafe for
their physical and emotional stage of development. A baby crib is
supposed to be a safe place in which one's child can be placed for
safe sleep and safe play during baby's first years of development.
However, as explicated above, the current standard sized crib does
not meet the safety needs of babies and toddlers and is often the
cause of injury and fatality. A crib designed to minimize and/or
eliminate injury and fatality of babies and toddlers would be
greatly welcomed in the baby gear industry and especially in the
homes of developing young children and their caregivers.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] The invention disclosed here addresses these needs in a
unique and highly facile way, by providing amongst other things, an
enclosure for infants and toddlers to be utilized during sleep and
light playtime. The provided enclosure is a modular crib assembly
designed to address some or all of the safety issues associated
with other infant and toddler enclosures.
[0014] In one aspect of the invention, the modular crib assembly
comprises
[0015] a framework comprising [0016] a base, [0017] an upper
railing, and [0018] three or more supports, each connecting the
base to the upper railing and being [0019] attached to each of the
base and the upper railing;
[0020] an inner breathable mesh wall detachably attached to a
portion of the framework, and extending between the base and the
upper railing so that the base and the inner breathable mesh wall
taken together define a primary containment area; and
[0021] an outer breathable mesh wall detachably attached to a
portion of the framework, and extending between the base and the
upper railing so as to be spaced apart from the inner breathable
mesh wall and laterally surrounding both the inner breathable mesh
wall and the primary containment area.
[0022] In another of its aspects, the invention provides a modular
crib assembly kit comprising
[0023] framework components comprising [0024] a base, [0025] an
upper railing, and [0026] three or more supports, each support
being adapted to connect the base to the upper railing and
detachably attachable to each of the base and the upper
railing;
[0027] an inner breathable mesh wall adapted for detachable
attachment to one or more of the framework components, and when
assembled the inner mesh wall extends between the base and the
upper railing and, when taken together with the base, defines a
primary containment area; and
[0028] an outer breathable mesh wall adapted for detachable
attachment to one or more of the framework components, and when
assembled the outer mesh wall extends between the base and the
upper railing and is spaced apart from the inner breathable mesh
wall and laterally surrounds both the inner breathable mesh wall
and the primary containment area.
[0029] Dual mesh wall systems made in accordance with this
invention provide a breathable, sturdy, yet elastic, enclosure of a
mattress. The inner mesh wall of the structure is designed to
protect the occupant from coming into contact with any rigid or
hard elements of the structure and contains no area where the
occupant could get extremities caught, thus eliminating or
diminishing any chance of structure related injury. Furthermore,
the breathable mesh material combined with the design of the
support posts (see detailed description below) in certain aspects
of the invention allows for breathability and slight elasticity in
every area where the occupant is in contact with the inner wall of
the structure, thus eliminating or diminishing any chance of
structure related suffocation or positional asphyxia.
[0030] The outer mesh wall of the structure is designed to protect
the occupant from any outside impact, such as an older child or pet
pressing forcefully up against the outer mesh wall, thus
eliminating or diminishing any injury that could be caused by
disturbances from outside the structure. Additionally, the dual
wall design, allows for breathability and prevention of impact
injury of the enclosure occupant, no matter where the structure is
positioned within a given space. For example, when the outer wall
is pressed up against an opaque surface lacking in breathability,
such as a wall in a bedroom, or against an otherwise opaque surface
such as another bed, the occupant maintains substantially 100%
breathability and protection from impact given the space between
the inner wall and outer wall of the structure.
[0031] In additional embodiments of the invention, the two walls
are made to be detachable for cleaning. Detachable mechanisms, such
as zippers or other fasteners, hook and loop-type fabric or the
like, are concealed and secured within the inner and outer
perimeters of the base and between the two segments of the upper
railing of the structure, making the detachable mechanisms
inaccessible to anyone except an adult. The base contains a space
for a standard sized crib mattress (preferably an air permeable
mattress and/or a mattress custom made to precisely fit the design)
to sit preferably flush within its innermost perimeter. Support
posts are connected and erect vertically at each corner of the base
(and along sides in between corners of structure if needed) and are
further supported by an upper railing that encircles the inner and
outer perimeters of the structure. Some support posts may be
hollowed and curved, or designed in such a way that the inner wall
either does not touch the support posts at all or that there is a
safe distance between the inner mesh wall and the posts in critical
areas, such as, for example, the areas nearest to the mattress
where breathability is essential for an occupant who is sleeping.
Furthermore the curved support posts provide smoother edges to
eliminate sharp rigid corners that could cause injury. In further
embodiments, the harder structural elements, such as the base,
support posts and upper railing, may be covered with a cushioning
material, such as foam rubber or the like, to eliminate or diminish
any chance of impact injury. These structural elements may even
have a cushioning material built within the structural element
instead of simply covering the structural element.
[0032] The distance between the inner perimeter and outer perimeter
of the enclosure creates a significant amount of space between the
two mesh walls, allowing for airflow throughout the entire
enclosure as well as creating a safe, sturdy, yet soft and elastic
environment for the occupant, to which the occupant is protected
from any possible structure related injuries, such as impact or
breakage, as well as possible structure related fatalities, such as
positional asphyxia or suffocation. The dual mesh wall design
additionally reduces or eliminates the need to attach any
mechanism, such as a crib bumper, since the materials and design
combined eliminate or greatly diminish the risk of injury.
[0033] As further described below, certain embodiments of the
invention also include the ability to detach what are referred to
as the Baby Crib Walls for cleaning, or to replace the Baby Crib
Walls with what are referred to as Toddler Transition Walls as the
child increases in mobility and independence. The Baby Crib Walls
create a complete breathable enclosure, where the child cannot pass
through the walls of the structure with any body part or extremity.
The Toddler Transition Walls create a breathable enclosure, which
encompasses a passageway through the walls that sits nearest to the
mattress, so that an older more mobile and independent toddler may
enter and exit the structure safely on his own.
[0034] Some aspects of the invention also include the ability to
incorporate features such as an interactive textured play panel, as
well as soothing lights and sounds or music within the structural
framework and or within the mesh walls of the structure. These
features offer comfort and stimulation to the enclosure occupant
during sleep and light playtime. Furthermore, the built in sound
and light features eliminate the need to attach hard opaque
soothers made to attach to current baby cribs on the market today,
which may also cause injury upon impact and are easily detached
and/or broken from the slats or railings of current cribs.
[0035] Furthermore, the dual mesh wall design offers the ability to
create a tridimensional, or layered aesthetic, such as an
underwater scene, nature scene, or the like, that is aesthetically
pleasing and stimulating for both adults and children alike.
Furthermore, the tridimensional aesthetic may also aid the child in
the development of fine motor skills and depth perception.
[0036] The design can be implemented in a range of sizes for any
age child who would benefit from a breathable, soft and sturdy
enclosure, during sleep or light play. Yet the design is mainly
intended to be an appropriate size for use during infancy and
toddlerhood and thus should be size appropriate for an infant or
toddler.
[0037] These and other features, advantages and embodiments of the
invention will now become further apparent from the accompanying
drawings, the following detailed description and the appended
claims.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0038] FIG. 1 is an elevated view in perspective of a crib assembly
in accordance with one aspect of the invention.
[0039] FIG. 2 an elevated view in perspective of a crib mattress
for use with the assembly of FIG. 1, with the bottom of the crib
mattress positioned upwardly to show both segments of an
anti-bunching crib sheet zipped together in accord with one aspect
of the invention.
[0040] FIG. 3 is an elevated view in perspective of a base of the
assembly of FIG. 1 and the crib mattress of FIG. 2 positioned
therein, with the top of both the base and the crib mattress
positioned upwardly and flush with one another.
[0041] FIG. 4 is an elevated view in perspective of the base and
mattress of FIG. 3 and vertical support posts attached thereto.
[0042] FIG. 5 is an elevated view in perspective of the base with
support posts according to FIG. 4, and a bottom segment of the
upper railing secured to the posts. A top segment of the upper
railing is shown exploded away from the bottom segment.
[0043] FIG. 6 is an elevated view in perspective of structure with
the top segment of upper railing secured atop the bottom segment of
the upper railing. The two segments, top and bottom, of the upper
railing conceal and secure the attaching mechanism along the top
perimeters of both mesh walls.
[0044] FIG. 7 is an elevated view, in perspective and broken way,
of the inner perimeter of the base of the assembly of FIG. 1,
showing the attaching mechanism (in this case a zipper) of the
bottom of the inner mesh wall concealed and secured within the
inner perimeter of the base once a mattress (not shown) is seated
in the base. The outer mesh wall already attached is also visible
in this figure.
[0045] FIG. 8 an elevated view, in perspective and broken away, of
the inner mesh wall of the assembly of FIG. 1, attached and secured
to the base, without any mattress seated in the base.
[0046] FIG. 9 an elevated view in perspective similar to FIG. 1,
with the top segment of upper railing blown away and ready to be
secured into place.
[0047] FIG. 10 is an elevated view in perspective of an optional
embodiment of the invention, which includes a breathable sleeping
surface for infants (suggested use for ages 0-12 months), placed on
the base and mattress of the assembly in FIG. 1. A custom
breathable sheet is secured onto the breathable sleeping surface
via corner loops, which pass under or through the mesh corner
blockers and through a hole in each support post of the structure
and then secure onto hooks located below each hole on the support
posts.
[0048] FIG. 10A is a top view of a breathable sheet with corner
loops, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. This
version of the breathable sheet sits atop the breathable sleeping
surface of FIG. 10. As seen in FIG. 10, the loops pass through or
under the mesh corner blockers and then through the holes in each
support post and finally secure onto the hooks provided below the
holes in each support post.
[0049] FIG. 10B is an elevated view in perspective of the
breathable sheet with corner loops, showing corner pieces of spacer
mesh that erect upward from the sheet in order to seal any gap
between the breathable surface of the structure of FIG. 10 and the
mesh corner blockers to which the corners of the breathable sheet
pass under or through, so that the corner loops can then pass
through the respective holes in each support post and finally
secure onto the hooks provided on each support post.
[0050] FIG. 10C is an elevated view in perspective of another
aspect of the invention, providing a breathable sheet designed to
sit atop the breathable sleeping surface as well as extend over the
walls and upper railing of the breathable sleeping surface insert.
The corner loops of this sheet secure onto the hooks located on the
support posts of FIG. 10 without passing through or under the mesh
corner blockers or through the holes in each support post.
[0051] FIG. 11 is a side perspective view of the full assembly if
FIG. 1 together with the optional structure of FIG. 10, with the
dual baby crib walls secured and the breathable sleeping surface
sitting within the structure.
[0052] FIG. 12 is an elevated view in perspective, partially broken
away, of an interactive play area (non-detachable) on the inner
mesh wall of the assembly of FIG. 1. In this aspect of the
invention, all components that are provided for interactive play
are made of soft (non abrasive and non rigid/hard materials)
materials with different textures that provide safe interactive
play for enclosure occupant. Some elements may include a sound or
light feature when pressed or touched. However, sound and light
features are not limited to interactive play areas and may be
placed elsewhere on the structure such as on or within the upper
railing or the base (thus making some sound and light features
controllable only by the caretaker of enclosure occupant).
[0053] FIG. 13 is a side view in perspective, partially broken
away, showing Inner and Outer Mesh Walls of an assembly according
to FIG. 10, with printed images included on the mesh walls. When
viewed from inside and outside the structure, the layered images
create visually a stimulating, tri-dimensional mosaic that
surrounds the entirety of the enclosure. Interactive play elements
may also be included in tri-dimensional mosaic images.
[0054] FIG. 14 is a side view in perspective and partially broken
away, of toddler transition walls in accordance with one aspect of
the invention, where a more mobile and independent baby or toddler
may enter or exit the structure via a passageway between both mesh
walls. Toddler transition walls are mesh walls that are attachable
and detachable from the structure just as the baby crib walls.
However, the area of the illustrated passageway(s) will be further
secured into the base or otherwise made to be sturdy so that when
utilized, the passageway does not lose form and stays secured in
place. Please see more detailed description below.
[0055] FIG. 15 is an top perspective view of the base with
suggested built in cushioning material (82), such as foam rubber,
disposed about the inner top perimeter of the base. Cushioning
material is made to attach in sections (for easy removal for
cleaning) within the inner top perimeter of the base. Cushioning
material prevents enclosure occupant from contacting any rigid
elements along the base, thus preventing impact injury.
[0056] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the base of FIG. 15,
taken along line 16-16 of FIG. 15, illustrating male/female
structures (83, 85) that provide an attaching mechanism for
affixing the cushioning material 82 to the base. This view also
illustrates how a top of the cushioning material is exactly flush
with a top of the mattress, thus the cushioning material also
further seals any gap between the mattress, the inner mesh wall and
the base, thus preventing any risk of enclosure occupant getting a
limb or extremity caught between the inner mesh wall and the
mattress. Furthermore, this view illustrates how the base and
cushioning material do not extend past the surface of the mattress,
thus, enclosure occupant may not get their nose pressed up against
any opaque material, so the enclosure substantially maintains 100%
breathability.
[0057] Like reference numbers or letters used in the figures are
intended to identify the same or like parts as shown amongst the
several figures.
FURTHER DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0058] As can now be appreciated, the invention described herein
provides a modular crib assembly, as well as a kit of components
that can form a crib assembly, which provides a highly functional
and protective enclosure of occupants, including especially
toddlers and infants. The components and features of the invention
will now be described in greater detail with reference to
particular illustrative embodiments of the invention shown in the
accompanying figures. The embodiments shown in the figures are not
intended to limit the scope of the invention, but instead are
intended to illustrate embodiments of the invention for a greater
understanding of the features and advantages the invention
provides, as well as to illuminate how one might practice the
invention.
[0059] Turning now to the figures, FIGS. 1-9 show a modular crib
assembly 10 comprising a framework comprised of a base 14, an upper
railing 16, and three or more (in this case, four) supports 18,
each connecting base 14 to upper railing 16 and being attached by
tongue-and-groove to each of base 14 and upper railing 16. Assembly
10 further comprises an inner breathable mesh wall 20 detachably
attached to a portion of the framework, in this case railing 16 and
base 14, and extending between base 14 and upper railing 16 so that
base 14 and inner breathable mesh wall 20 taken together define a
primary containment area PA (FIG. 1). Assembly 10 further comprises
an outer breathable mesh wall 24 detachably attached to a portion
of the framework, in this case the portion being railing 16 and
base 14, and extending between base 14 and upper railing 16 so as
to be spaced apart from inner breathable mesh wall 20 and laterally
surrounding both inner breathable mesh wall 20 and primary
containment area PA.
[0060] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 8, a lower edge 55 of inner
breathable mesh wall 20 is detachably attached, by a zipper Z1, to
base 14 and an upper edge 54 of wall 20 is detachably attached by
another zipper Z2 to upper railing 16. A lower edge 55' of outer
breathable mesh wall 24 is detachably attached, by a zipper Z4 to
base 14 and at an upper edge 54' of outer wall 24 by another zipper
Z3 to upper railing 16. Inner mesh wall 20 serves to prevent an
enclosure occupant's contact with support posts 18 and outer mesh
wall 24, allowing for breathability to the enclosure occupant, and
thus preventing risk of suffocation. Inner mesh wall 20 is made of
material so as to be pulled taught and secure when attached to the
framework, yet remains elastic and breathable, preventing any
chance of impact injury or positional asphyxia, and constitutes a
continuous, breathable mesh lateral boundary around the primary
containment area PA.
[0061] At least one, and as illustrated all, of the supports 18
comprise an inner surface 26 proximate to inner breathable wall 20
when the crib is assembled, the inner surface 26 being at least
partially concave and spaced apart from inner breathable mesh wall
20.
[0062] As seen in FIG. 7, for example, base 14 defines a seat 32
sized to receive a mattress 34 (see FIGS. 2 and 5) so as to inhibit
lateral movement of mattress 34 relative to base 14 when mattress
34 is received or seated into seat 32. As shown in the
configuration illustrated (see, e.g., FIGS. 1, 8 and 9), space
between mattress 34 and inner mesh wall 20 is minimized to prevent
extremities from being caught there between. Seat 32 is of such a
depth that top 36 of mattress 34 is flush with a top 38 of base 14
when mattress 34 is seated in seat 32.
[0063] The illustrated framework seen in, e.g., FIGS. 5 and 6,
further comprises at least one upper railing cover 50 configured to
snap or otherwise couple to upper railing 16 and is sized and
configured to conceal a location 52 of attachment (via zipper Z2)
of upper edge 54 of inner mesh wall 20 to upper railing 16 and to
conceal a location 52' of attachment (via zipper Z3) of upper edge
54' of outer mesh wall 24 to upper railing 16.
[0064] Mattress 34 (see FIGS. 2, 5 and 7, for example) is sized to
fit into seat 32 so as to minimize the presence of any gap between
an outer side wall 33 of mattress 34 and an inner side wall 35
defining seat 32 of base 14. FIG. 2 illustrates another aspect of
the invention, providing an anti-bunching fitted sheet 70 for use
with mattress 34. Fitted sheet 70 covers mattress 34, and comprises
a first fitted sheet portion 72 and a second anti-bunching portion
74 detachably attachable to a perimeter 76 of first fitted sheet
portion 72 preferably by way of a zipper 78 (although other
attachment means, such as, e.g., buttons, snaps, zippers or other
fasteners, as well as hook and loop fastening material, etc. may
alternatively be employed), so that anti-bunching portion 74, when
detachably attached to the perimeter 76, retains first fitted sheet
portion 72 stretched across top surface 36 of mattress 34 to
inhibit bunching of first fitted sheet portion 72 at top surface 36
of mattress 34 during use.
[0065] As shown in FIGS. 10, 10A, 10B, 10C and 11, another
embodiment of the invention further comprises a crib insert 56,
which comprises a crib insert frame 58 and a crib insert breathable
sleeping surface 60 supported by crib insert frame 58, crib insert
56 being sized and configured to fit within primary containment
area PA when assembly 10 is assembled. Insert 56 is further
configured with one or more (as illustrated, four) insert
breathable mesh walls 57, so that walls 57 and surface 60 of insert
56 define a secondary containment area SA elevated above base 14
and above the top surface 36 of mattress 34 within primary
containment area PA.
[0066] Illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B is another aspect of the
invention, comprising a crib insert breathable sheet 62. Sheet 62
is configured to be detachably attachable to crib insert sleeping
surface 60 and crib insert frame 58 of FIG. 10. In particular,
sheet 62 is sized to be disposed upon mesh sleeping surface 60 to
make surface 60 comfortable and soft, while retaining its top
surface taught, firm, elastic and breathable. As illustrated, sheet
62 is detachable from sleeping surface 60 via four corner loops 64
which are fully sewn or otherwise attached or integral with the
respective corners of sheet 62. Corner loops 64 extend under or
through four respective mesh corner blockers 66 of insert 56 (FIG.
10) and then through a respective hole located in a respective
support post 59, and finally secure sheet 62 onto sleep surface 60
by connecting to respective hooks 61 located on respective support
posts 59 of insert frame 58. Sheet 62 is supplemented at each
corner with an additional segment of breathable material 67
extending upwards at each corner to seal the gaps between mesh
corner blockers 66 located in the corners of insert 56 and
breathable surface 60 of insert 56. Loops 64, which are fully sewn
or otherwise attached to the corners of sheet 62 preferably are
made of durable, strong and elastic fabric or other material so
that, when stretched and connected to hooks 61, sheet 62 is pulled
taught and secure to inhibit movement of sheet 62 from sleeping
surface 60 by the enclosure occupant while in secondary containment
area SA (see FIG. 10). FIG. 10C illustrates an alternative
breathable sheet 68, which includes one or more walls 69 that are
sized to extend over the top railing of frame 58 as well as the top
of posts 59 and thus secure onto hooks 61 located on posts 59
without passing through corner blockers 66 or support posts 59 to
reach hooks 61.
[0067] FIG. 12 illustrates one embodiment of the invention which
incorporates an interactive textured play panel 80, as well as
optional soothing lights (not shown) and sounds or music within the
structural framework and or within the mesh walls 20 and 24 of the
assembly. These features, more fully described below, offer comfort
and stimulation to the enclosure occupant during sleep and light
playtime. Furthermore, the built in sound and light features
eliminate the need to attach hard opaque soothers made to attach to
current baby cribs on the market today, which may also cause injury
upon impact and are easily detached and/or broken from the slats or
railings of current cribs.
[0068] In another embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 13, the
assembly 10 further comprises one or more visually perceptible
images 40 connected, integral with or formed on each of outer mesh
wall 24 and inner mesh wall 20, the images 40 being placed at one
or more locations about inner mesh wall 20 and containment area PA
and about outer mesh wall 24 which itself surrounds wall 20 and
area PA. Images 40 are colored, shaped and configured so as to
provide a three dimensional-type visual effect when viewed from a
point of view that is either outside of or within primary
containment area PA, because of the depth provided by space
existing between the dual mesh walls 20 and 24 and the overlapping
of images on the respective walls, and to provide a
tri-dimensional, or layered aesthetic, such as an underwater scene,
nature scene, or the like, as seen on FIG. 13, that is
aesthetically pleasing and stimulating for both adults and children
alike. Furthermore, without being bound by theory, it is believed
the tridimensional aesthetic may also aid the child in the
development of fine motor skills and depth perception.
[0069] FIG. 14 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the
invention wherein an inner breathable mesh wall 20' and an outer
breathable mesh wall 24', define an opening 44 so that when
assembly 10 is assembled, opening 44 provides a passageway 46 from
the primary containment area PA through the inner mesh wall 20' and
outer mesh wall 24' at a vertical location 48 at or above an upper
surface (top) 38 of base 14 and above the top surface 36 of
mattress 34.
[0070] Particular component parts and features of certain
embodiments of the invention illustrated in the figures will now be
described in greater detail. References below to the number or
letter references used in the accompanying figures are for the
convenience of the reader only, and are not intended to limit the
components or the described features to the particular illustrative
embodiment shown in the figures.
[0071] The Base.
[0072] The base (14) is a sturdy platform, which forms the bottom
foundation of the structure. The base is designed to sit flush
against the floor, with nothing underneath, such as a post(s) that
would raise it off the ground. The base (in combination with the
supports and upper railing) creates the separation of the mesh
walls. The inner perimeter of the base encircles an area where a
mattress fits flush within the base. Furthermore, the inner and
outer perimeters of the Base contain an adhered portion of tough
waterproof fabric, to which the bottom of the inner and outer mesh
walls are attached (via zipper, or other suitable mechanism) and
concealed and secured within the Base. Thus, the attaching
mechanism of the bottom of the mesh walls is not accessible to
anyone accept an adult.
[0073] The shape of the Base can be, but is not limited to, a
rectangular form with rounded corners that is made to fit a
standard sized crib mattress in length, width and depth (standard
sized crib mattress dimensions are 271/2 inches.times.52
inches.times.no greater thickness of 6 inches in depth). In
preferred embodiments, however, the design may incorporate a custom
mattress, to which the dimensions of the mattress match the
dimensions of the base exactly, so that there is no area where the
enclosure occupant could get their limbs or extremities caught
between the mattress and the base. In further embodiments, the crib
base is designed to accommodate an air permeable mattress, and thus
may include a design, which incorporates breathable cut out areas
within the base to provide maximum airflow through the base and an
air permeable mattress.
[0074] It should be noted that in preferred embodiments, the base,
in conjunction with the crib structure will have limited mattress
level settings such as 2 at the most, though only 1 mattress level
setting is preferred. For example, the lowest (and most preferable)
mattress setting being closest to the floor, where the mattress
fits flush within the base. In addition, the highest mattress level
setting, for example, being only midway between the lowest point of
the base and the highest point of Upper Railing. This element of
the design thus reduces the potential risk of a mobile infant or
toddler falling out of the top of the crib.
[0075] The material used to form the base may be wood, plastic,
metal or any other material suitable for the intended use of the
design. In further embodiments, all edges are rounded and/or
covered with a cushioning material, such as foam rubber or the
like, to further prevent any impact injury. In other embodiments,
the design incorporates and area within the inner top edge of the
inner perimeter of the base that is comprised of a cushioning 82
(and preferably air permeable) material, which is built into the
framework of the base (please see FIGS. 15 and 16).
[0076] This invention is not limited strictly to a straight-sided
form, and encompasses the opportunity to alter the design, to where
the enclosure is circular, oval, or otherwise without corners.
However, in some aspects of the invention, the enclosure is
designed to accommodate a rectangular shaped mattress with rounded
corners, such as is similar to a standard sized crib mattress. Even
more preferred in some aspects of the invention is a design which
incorporates a custom fit mattress which includes a custom made
anti-bunching crib sheet (see full description of such sheet
below).
[0077] The above description of that which is referred to as the
"BASE" is not limited to the description as written. The base may
be constructed in a different manner if it suits the soundness and
purpose of the structure.
[0078] Supports.
[0079] By "support" as used herein, it is meant a structural
support, which extends between the base and the upper railing,
serving to hold the upper railing and the base apart and to create
a given space in and across which the mesh walls are properly held
taught and secure. The support posts (18) are connected to and
extend upward from the corners of the base and hold atop, the upper
railing. The securing of the supports can be accomplished by a wide
range of suitable means, such as screws; nails; adhesives; joint
mechanisms such as female/male type connections such as, dowel and
recess, dovetail; and the like.
[0080] In one potentially preferred aspect of the invention, the
supports are partially or completely hollowed and curved in form,
such that the inner mesh wall, when properly disposed with respect
to the framework, does not touch the support. The incidence of
enclosure occupant contacting the hard and opaque support is thus
prevented, reduced or diminished in impact. Thus, 100%
breathability is maintained throughout the structure (preventing
the risk of structure related suffocation or positional asphyxia of
enclosure occupant), and impact injury is prevented. In preferred
embodiments, the edges of the support posts are rounded so as to
further prevent injury. The support posts can be made out of any
suitable material, such as for example, wood, metal or plastic, or
the like. In further embodiments, the supports are covered with a
cushioning material, such as foam rubber, or the like, to reduce or
prevent the chance of impact injury. In exemplary embodiments, the
structure contains two or more supports of any suitable means,
though four vertical support posts, located at the corners of the
structure, which are curved and hollowed, may be preferred.
[0081] The invention is not limited to only vertical posts located
at the corners of the structure but may contain support posts in
any other surrounding area of the framework as needed.
Additionally, the design is not limited to only vertical supports,
but may utilize horizontal, diagonal or any otherwise angled
support system if necessary for security of the structure.
Furthermore, the supports are not limited to a securing mechanism
such as screws or the like, but may hinge upward from the base if
necessary, or extend and lock into place in any manner necessary to
create more suitable security of the structure and to keep the mesh
walls taught.
[0082] It should be noted that the above description of that which
is referred to as the "SUPPORT POSTS" is not limited to the
description as written. In other embodiments, the support posts may
be otherwise constructed in a different manner if it suits the
soundness and purpose of the structure.
[0083] Upper Railing.
[0084] The upper railing (16) is secured to the top of the vertical
support posts and encircles the inner and outer perimeters of the
structure. Preferred embodiments include an upper railing design
that is comprised of two separate segments: a BOTTOM segment and a
TOP segment.
[0085] The BOTTOM segment of the upper railing is secured into the
top of any vertical support posts and is meant to be a permanent
attachment once secured in place. The securing of this segment can
be accomplished by a wide range of suitable means, such as screws;
nails; adhesives; joint mechanisms such as female/male type
connections such as, dowel and recess, dovetail; and the like. The
BOTTOM segment of the upper railing contains an adhered portion of
tough waterproof fabric to which each mesh wall is attached, via
zipper or any other suitable mechanism.
[0086] The TOP segment of the upper railing then connects atop the
BOTTOM segment of the upper railing, thus concealing and securing
the attachment of the top of the mesh walls to the structure.
Securing the two segments of the upper railing, can be accomplished
by a wide range of suitable means, such as screws, or the like. The
securing mechanism may secure only through TOP to BOTTOM segments
of the Upper Railing or from TOP segment all the way into the
support posts if necessary for soundness and stability of the
structure.
[0087] The dual level railing design eliminates, reduces or
diminishes accessibility to detachable areas of the top of the mesh
walls by anyone accept an adult. Furthermore, when the Baby Crib
walls need to be detached, either to be cleaned or to be replaced
with Toddler Transition Walls, the design allows for the entire
structure to stay secure and in place aside from the TOP segment of
the Upper Railing. Once the walls are reattached to the BOTTOM
segment of the Upper Railing, the TOP segment of the Upper Railing
then is secured back in place. Further embodiments incorporate a
cushioning material, such as foam rubber, so as to cover any rigid
elements of the upper railing, thus eliminating, reducing or
diminishing injury of enclosure occupant. In other embodiments, a
cushioned portion is built into the upper railing.
[0088] The structural design of the upper railing is not limited to
the above description. The structural design of the upper railing
may include hard unbendable pieces which are secured together via
screws or the like, or the railing may secure in place by means of
a lock and hinge system to which the supports and upper rail alike,
are hinged and locked into place. The materials used to create the
upper railing may include wood, metal, plastic or any other
suitable materials.
[0089] Dual Mesh Walls.
[0090] The framework described above including, but not limited to,
a base, supports and upper railing, participates in supporting two
breathable mesh walls (20 and 24 or 20' and 24'), providing a
complete and safe enclosure whereas the occupant cannot pass
through the walls by means of entire body or extremities and has
access to breathability in every area of the mesh walled enclosure.
These two mesh walls are heretofore referred to as an INNER mesh
wall (20) and an OUTER mesh wall (24). Together, the two mesh walls
create what is heretofore referred to as BABY CRIB WALLS, which are
meant for, but not limited to, the invention's first stage of use
during infancy and early toddlerhood.
[0091] The INNER mesh wall is one piece of breathable fabric that
encloses and encircles the INNER perimeter of the structure,
wherein the mattress area sits. On the top and bottom edges of the
breathable fabric is a tough waterproof fabric containing a zipper
or other mechanism meant to attach the INNER mesh wall to the base
and respectively to the bottom segment of the upper railing. The
INNER mesh wall is attached to the structure in such a way that it
is pulled taught enough to provide a sturdy, yet elastic, and
breathable inner wall. This INNER mesh wall is attached in such a
way that the occupant may come into contact with the INNER mesh
wall, but may NOT come into contact with any areas of the
structure, such as the support posts, that could create injury or a
lack of breathability.
[0092] In other embodiments, the inner mesh wall is attached in
such a way that the occupant may come into contact with the posts
or other part of the structure but may not be susceptible to impact
injury as certain areas of the structure are covered with a
cushioning material, such as foam rubber, or the like. Furthermore,
in all preferred embodiments of the design, the inner mesh wall
will allow for breathability and an appropriate amount of
elasticity in all areas where occupant may press up against the
inner wall during sleep. Thus, even if the Inner mesh wall comes
into contact with a portion of the supports, it may not come into
contact with the supports in crucial areas, such as nearest the
mattress, so that 100% breathability is maintained during
sleep.
[0093] It should be noted that embodiments may include a design
where the inner mesh wall may still be one complete unit of fabric
that is detachable from the structure, yet the one complete unit of
fabric may be comprised of several pieces of breathable mesh
fabric, which are sewn together in such a way that any corners of
the framework are blocked and fit flush around the corners of the
mattress. Thus, enclosure occupant has no way of coming into
contact with a support, and furthermore enclosure occupant has no
way of getting any body part, including extremities, wedged between
any area of the mattress and the inner wall.
[0094] The OUTER mesh wall is one piece of breathable fabric that
encloses and encircles the OUTER perimeter of the structure. On the
top and bottom edges of the breathable fabric is a tough waterproof
fabric containing a zipper or other mechanism meant to attach the
OUTER mesh wall to the base and respectively to the bottom segment
of the upper railing. The OUTER mesh wall is attached in such a way
that it is pulled taught enough to provide a sturdy wall. The OUTER
wall is meant to protect the occupant from outside impacts and
disturbances, such as an older child or pet pressing up against the
OUTER wall. Furthermore, it allows the unit to be placed up against
anything opaque, such as the wall of a bedroom, or placed in direct
contact with another bed, without obstructing breathability. Thus
if the outer wall is pressed up against anything opaque, the space
between the two mesh walls allows for complete breathability.
Furthermore, as the enclosure occupant only has access to the inner
wall, the occupant is protected from impact injury even when the
outer wall is pressed up against a hard surface, such as a wall of
a bedroom. Thus, if a mobile infant or toddler were to stand up,
fall back and hit the inner mesh wall, there exists no risk of
injury as the inner mesh wall does not come into contact with any
opaque or hard surface surrounding the enclosure, given the space
between the inner and outer mesh wall.
[0095] The way in which the dual mesh wall system, within the given
structure, is created is not limited to the description above. For
example, in one embodiment, the dual mesh wall system may be
created by one single piece of fabric that is attached to the inner
side of the base, draped over the bottom portion of the upper
railing as well as the supports, and fastened then to the outer
perimeter of the base, thus making two walls with one piece of
fabric. However, in preferred embodiments, the dual mesh wall
system is created by two separate pieces of fabric, to where each
piece of fabric is its own wall that is detachable from the
structure.
[0096] In yet another embodiment, the two mesh walls contain their
own separate structures, to where the inner mesh wall and structure
stands separately from, and sits within, the outer mesh wall and
structure. These two separate structures, would then be connected
by an upper railing.
[0097] In preferred embodiments, the BABY CRIB WALLS are made to
attach and detach from the structure, so as to provide an
opportunity to clean the walls and the area in between the walls
(such as the surface of the base) effectively. Furthermore,
detachability, then allows for the next stage of walls, the TODDLER
TRANSITION WALLS, to be attached when the occupant is at an
appropriate stage of development.
[0098] It is also important to note that all attaching mechanisms,
such as zippers, will be effectively secured and concealed by way
of materials (such as fabric, wood, or the like) that cover the
attaching mechanisms and are secured in place with screws or the
like, so that a child (whether inside or outside the crib) has NO
access to the attaching mechanisms and thus will not be able to
detach the walls from the crib structure.
[0099] Though detachability of the walls of the structure is
incorporated in the preferred design of the dual mesh wall system,
the invention is not limited to this design element and may
incorporate walls that are non-detachable from the structure.
[0100] The mesh walls are made of a material which is essentially
"breathable," i.e., air can be easily drawn through the material
such that if the material is against the nose or mouth of an infant
or a toddler, it will not prevent the child from drawing in air
through the mouth or nose. Many materials are thus breathable. Even
more preferred are breathable materials, which also have some
degree of elasticity, the ability to "give" or stretch under
pressure, such as occurs with the surface of a trampoline. Such
materials are expected to diminish the incidence of positional
asphyxiation such as can occur when the child is positioned so that
it cannot draw air into its lungs, such as could occur when the
head is at too sharp and angle to the body or the airway is
otherwise compressed due to the weight of the child. Breathable and
elastic materials include polyester and sometimes vinyl meshes of
different ranges of weight and thickness and breathable hole sizes,
such as leno mesh, spacer mesh, Phifertex mesh and the like.
Materials which are both breathable and elastic include, polyester
meshes of different ranges of weight and thickness and breathable
hole sizes, such as leno meshes, spacer meshes, and the like.
Preferred is a mesh material such as, for example, a sheer
breathable and elastic polyester fabric with pin-sized holes to
holes no bigger than a newborn sized finger (approximately 5 mm in
diameter), which may be pulled taught enough to create a sturdy yet
elastic wall. Preferred are mesh materials containing holes with an
APPROXIMATE maximum diameter of 5 millimeters.
[0101] An advantage of using mesh materials is that mesh can be
"sheer" or "see-through" to some degree. Thus, a mesh inner wall
will not block the enclosure occupant's view of the mesh outer
wall. In some embodiments, both walls are made with a sheer mesh
with printed images, such that when viewed overlapping from inner
to outer wall and from outer to inner wall, a layered, or
three-dimensional affect is created. For example, an underwater
scene, forest scene, or other visually stimulating scene
appropriate to the age of the enclosure occupant, can be printed on
both walls, which then creates a tri-dimensional aesthetic. In
other embodiments of the invention, a layered aesthetic may be
accomplished by complete mosaic on one sheer wall and minimal
images on the other sheer wall. In other embodiments, each wall may
be one solid color with minimal images. Thus, while the present
invention encompasses the use of materials, which are breathable
and elastic, in a preferred embodiment, the material of both inner
and outer walls is a polyester mesh or the like, which is
breathable, elastic and sheer. In addition, though each wall may be
one solid color, or simply sheer, it is preferred that each wall
contain age appropriate visually stimulating images, that create a
three-dimensional mosaic like aesthetic.
[0102] In further embodiments, the inner and outer mesh walls
contain an interactive area, or PLAY PANEL, designed for
interactive play for the child. It should be noted that any area
designed for interactive play will be in an appropriate place upon
the surface of the inner and/or outer walls of the crib and will
offer NO area of obstruction of breathability during sleep.
Furthermore, all interactive play elements will be made with
materials and in such a way that they may not come loose from the
mesh wall(s) and may not include any element that could cause
impact injury. Play panel design and elements may include, but are
not limited to, a variety of textured fabrics, age appropriate
images, words and pictures, sound or musical elements, light
features and the like. Furthermore, interactive elements are not
limited to one given play panel area within the mesh walls, but may
be incorporated into the design of the mosaic like aesthetic. For
example, if the crib has a forest scene printed on the walls, with
animals, trees and the like, any of these images (as long as they
are not located nearest the mattress where baby could press up
against the inner wall during sleep) could be made with a textured
fabric and or sound or light feature. Thus, for example, a bird,
could be made of a sewn in textured material with a squeaker
secured inside that makes a chirping sound when pressed. Thus when
enclosure occupant feels the bird, the child feels a different
texture than that of the surrounding mesh wall, and when that image
is pressed with a certain amount of pressure, the child would hear
the bird chirp. Interactive sensory activities encourage the
development of the senses, such as touch and sound, and are
incredibly important in the developmental stages of early
childhood. Furthermore, a sensory activity that is fully sewn into
the walls of the crib and is NOT detachable, offers a safe way for
the child to play and engage with his or her surroundings without
risk of injury, strangulation or suffocation.
[0103] Both top and bottom perimeters of the mesh walls may be
finished with a tough and waterproof fabric. These bottom and top
pieces of fabric may each include a zipper, or other suitable
mechanism, that extends the circumference of the bottom and top, as
well as inner and outer perimeters, allowing the mesh walls to be
detached from the crib structure to be cleaned. The edges of the
sheer mesh walls, which are connected to the bottom segment of the
upper railing, and respectively, connected to the base, may be
finished with a tougher portion of fabric having greater durability
and mechanical strength than the mesh material of the remainder of
the wall. In additional embodiments, the finishing edges of the
sheer mesh walls can be less elastic than the remainder of the mesh
walls. In additional embodiments, the edge portions of tough fabric
may be within, but are not limited to, a range of about 2 to about
6 inches in width on either the bottom or top portions of the mesh
walls. The tougher fabric that comprises the edges of the bottom of
the inner wall, which is nearest to the mattress, should not exceed
past 4 or 5 inches from the secured point on the base to the top
surface of the mattress, so as to ensure that any material touching
the mattress is breathable. Thus, the tough edging fabric on the
bottom of the inner wall should be concealed in between the
mattress and the base. Thus, the enclosure occupant only has access
to the breathable mesh fabric during sleep.
[0104] One of the benefits of the embodiments of the present
invention is the protection afforded the enclosure occupant from
blows and intrusions from the outside of the enclosure. To this
end, it is preferred that the outer mesh wall and the inner mesh
wall be separated by a distance in the range of about 1 to about 12
inches apart, with a range of about 4 to about 8 inches
preferred.
[0105] The inner and outer mesh walls are separated by an inter
wall distance. While it is contemplated that the walls can be any
convenient distance apart, in exemplary embodiments, the inter wall
distance is about 1 to about 12 inches. In other embodiments, inter
wall distance is about 1.5 to about 6 inches apart. Furthermore, it
is not required that the inter wall distance be the same for all
the walls of the crib. For example, the side inter wall distance
may be different from the end wall inter wall distance.
[0106] It should also be noted that the double walled mesh design,
may also be used with a breathable, elastic inner mesh wall and an
outer wall which is breathable, yet not elastic, or of limited
elasticity, or of lesser elasticity than the inner mesh wall. In
this way, blows and disturbances impacting on the outer mesh wall
from the outside of the enclosure are dampened or suppressed such
that they have limited or no impact upon the inner mesh wall. Thus
in preferred embodiments, the inner mesh wall is breathable and
elastic, while the outer mesh wall is breathable, but of lesser
elasticity than the inner wall.
[0107] It should be noted that the dual wall concept also allows
the structure to be positioned up against a solid, or otherwise,
hard and/or opaque surface wall of a bedroom, or up against the
side of another bed, such as the caregiver of occupant's bed, while
maintaining breathability and protection from impact. Thus, given
the distance between the inner and outer walls of the crib and the
breathable fabric used to create the two walls, the crib occupant
maintains 100% breathability and protection from impact no matter
where the crib is placed.
[0108] Toddler Transition Walls.
[0109] One highly useful feature of certain aspects of the
invention is the ease with which the enclosure can be altered to be
used as the child increases in mobility. If there exists a risk
that the enclosure occupant will climb out of the crib or the
occupant is simply ready for increased independence, the Baby Crib
Walls can be removed and replaced with TODDLER TRANSITION WALLS
(20' and 24'). The Toddler Transition Walls are breathable mesh
walls (inner and outer) that preferably attach and detach onto the
crib structure just as do the Baby Crib Walls. However, the Toddler
Transition Walls include a passageway (46) near the mattress
surface where a more mobile child can easily enter and exit the
crib. While the passageway may be any shape, which allows the child
to enter and exit the crib safely and effectively, in preferred
embodiments, the passageway will be a fun shape or character (i.e.,
circle, star, arch, heart, dog, bear, etc.). Toddler Transition
Walls may include more than one passageway if desired. The
passageway(s), is preferably designed so that the child does NOT
have access to the space between the mesh walls. Thus, the child
may enter and exit the crib safely, but is not able to wedge
themselves, or have any access at all, to the space between the two
walls of the structure. Furthermore, the passageway(s) area(s) will
be constructed in such a way that the passageway(s) is sturdy and
will not loose shape upon impact. Though the passageway(s) may be
constructed in a myriad of ways, preferred is a passageway to which
the shape of the opening is formed by a metal, plastic or wooden
frame (or the like) that is covered with a cushioning material such
as foam rubber, or air permeable cushioning material, or covered by
a closed cell cushioning material which is then covered by a
breathable spacer mesh or the like. The frame is secured into the
base by means of screws, hinge and lock system, male/female
securing system, or any other suitable means. The space that exists
in the depth between the passageway frame through both mesh walls
would be stretched sturdy and taught and be made of a strong, yet
still elastic, mesh such as Phifertex mesh, spacer mesh or the
like. Thus, the passageway materials maintain 100% breathability,
appropriate elasticity, and make the passageway strong and sturdy
such that when the enclosure occupant passes through the
passageway, the passageway stays in place and maintains it's
shape.
[0110] It should be noted that the design of the Toddler Transition
Walls may include a sheer mesh piece of fabric that extends across
the entrance/exit opening(s) to further prevent the enclosure
occupant from passing through the entrance/exit(s) during sleep.
This piece of mesh would be long enough to fit within the width of
the passageway and only tall enough to prevent a child from exiting
the passageway when they are laying horizontally upon the mattress,
yet moving about in their sleep. Even more preferred, is a
passageway(s) designed so that the bottom edge of the passageway(s)
sits above the mattress (at a preferred range between 2 to 6 inches
above the mattress) so that the enclosure occupant is fully
protected from falling out of the crib during sleep, however may
easily achieve entry and exit of the structure.
[0111] In an even more preferred embodiment, an air permeable,
cushioned and triangular wedge or ramp may be incorporated as a
separate attachable component of the design, so that when pressed
up against the outer wall passageway area(s), the ramp-like wedge
provides even more ease for the child to enter and exit the crib
safely.
[0112] It should be noted that the Toddler Transition Walls may
also include, but are not limited to the same aesthetic
opportunities as described above for the Baby Crib Walls, including
a tri-dimensional mosaic and interactive play panel and/or
otherwise interactive components of the mosaic like aesthetic.
Dimensions of Embodiments of the Invention
[0113] Dimensions of the structural elements of embodiments of the
invention are not limited to, but are intended to accommodate, an
infant or toddler who is an appropriate size for a standard sized
crib mattress. Furthermore, the inner and outer dimensions are not
limited to, but are intended to create a separation between two
mesh walls, so that when pressed upon, one wall will not be touched
or impacted by the other. In one embodiment, the base, in use with
supports, has dimensions such that a standard sized crib mattress
(271/2 inches.times.52 inches and no thicker than 6 inches in
depth) can fit completely flush within the inner perimeter of the
base. In one aspect of the invention, the structure accommodates an
air permeable crib mattress. Yet another aspect of the invention
includes dimensions that fit a custom made mattress that is either
the exact dimensions of a standard sized crib mattress or is
greater in length than a standard crib mattress and perhaps less in
thickness to provide a lower height of the crib and more longevity
as the enclosure occupant grows in height. The height of the entire
structure from the bottom of the base to the top of the upper
railing should not be greater than approximately 38 inches tall and
should not be less than approximately 31 inches tall. The preferred
height in one aspect of the invention is between 32 inches and 35
inches.
[0114] Though the intended use of the invention is for infants and
toddlers, the design allows for the creation of the invention in
larger or smaller dimensions, whereas to create, for example a
bedside crib for infants, where the mattress is adjustable to meet
the height of an adult sized bed, or for example, a twin sized
mattress enclosure for older children. Thus, the dimensions may be
changed if the design is utilized for different age groups from
that which is described above. Furthermore, the design is not
limited to a rectangular shape with rounded corners and may
alternatively be created in other shapes such as a square, triangle
or other shape, or furthermore a shape without corners, such as a
circle or oval.
[0115] Materials.
[0116] In general, it is preferred that the materials used to build
all elements of an assembly in accordance with the invention be
sound and durable so as to support and withstand the activities of
an infant, toddler and older child, though typically occupants will
be infants and toddlers. Furthermore, all materials must be fire
proof, non-toxic and comply by the safety standards regarding
appropriate materials of infant gear, and should comply by the safe
sleep standards as described by the American Academy of
Pediatrics.
[0117] The invention's support structure, comprising the base,
supports and upper railing may be made of metal, plastic, wood or
any other material(s) suitable for its intended use. Additionally,
any elements that could cause injury upon impact may be covered
with a cushioning material such as foam rubber, closed cell foam,
or the like.
[0118] The two breathable walls that make up the enclosure and
contain key aesthetic design elements are preferably made of sheer,
non-toxic, breathable mesh fabrics that may differ in elasticity
from inner to outer wall. Any color or images or textures should be
made from non-toxic dyes and furthermore, should be made to be
washable.
[0119] Securing mechanisms may include, but are not limited to,
screws, zippers, hinge and lock systems, male/female connecting
mechanisms and the like.
[0120] It is preferable in some aspects of the invention that the
materials used to build the assembly be recyclable, or otherwise,
eco-friendly and non-toxic to the enclosure occupant or to the
earth. Of course, the invention is not limited to any particular
materials, other than those that comply with the safety standards
for materials used in baby gear and to those which may be described
by the American Academy of Pediatrics or applicable, minimum
industry standards.
[0121] Assembly.
[0122] The assembly (10) may contain connecting elements such as
screws, zippers or any other elements that are suitable for their
intended use and that may be concealed when necessary to prevent
access from enclosure occupant or other child. The design and
assembly of the invention includes a variety of options. As noted
previously, the accompanying figures illustrate a preferred example
of one embodiment of the invention design and assembly. But the
invention is not limited to the assembly option which is
illustrated in the still figures included with this document. Nor
is the assembly of the invention limited to the written
descriptions included in this document.
[0123] Breathable Sleeping Surface for Infants (Approximately Ages
0 to 12 Months).
[0124] This embodiment of the invention is a structure that is made
to insert into the crib for use when enclosure occupant is in the
most vulnerable stages for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, or, SIDS.
The most vulnerable stages for SIDS is between 0 to 12 months of
age. Immobile and newly mobile babies are all at risk of SIDS and
thus need a breathable surface and surroundings to sleep and play
on in these vulnerable stages.
[0125] The Breathable Sleeping Surface (60) for infants is a
structure comprised of support posts, a base railing, a sleeping
surface railing, a top railing, a mesh sleeping surface, mesh walls
and mesh corner blockers. In addition, there is a custom breathable
sheet made to attach to and detach from the structure.
[0126] The BASE RAILING supports the structure in conjunction with
the support posts, sleeping surface railing and upper railing. The
Base Railing sits flat upon the crib mattress, encircles the
perimeter of the inserted structure, and is attached to the bottom
of each vertical support post.
[0127] The SLEEPING SURFACE RAILING creates the space to which the
mesh sleeping surface is attached and held taught. The Sleeping
Surface Railing encircles the perimeter of the structure and sits
above the base railing and crib mattress about 2 to 12 inches, with
a range of 4 to 6 inches above the base railing and mattress
preferred. Also connected to the sleeping surface railing are mesh
walls that extend upward from the sleeping surface railing to the
top railing, which also encircles the perimeter of the structure.
The mesh walls, from sleeping surface railing to top railing
preferably is a minimum of 10 inches in height to a maximum height
that would match the height of the entire crib. A preferred example
of height of the mesh walls is between 10 inches to 18 inches. The
Mesh Walls and sleeping surface provide substantially 100%
breathability from all angles.
[0128] The TOP RAILING encircles the perimeter of the structure and
connects to the top of all vertical support posts. The top of the
mesh walls are connected to the top railing. The top railing is
within the range of 10 inches above the sleep surface railing and
at a maximum may reach the height of the entire crib. However, in
further embodiments, the Top Railing, in conjunction with the
vertical supports and mesh walls, may be made as an adjustable
piece so as to raise the height of the walls as baby grows in size
and develops stronger gross motor skills such as sitting up and
standing up. Thus, if the caregiver so desires to keep baby on the
breathable sleeping surface as they grow and reach new
developmental mile stones, the walls, supports and upper railing
may be raised in height to accommodate a bigger more mobile baby.
Thus, preventing any risk of a bigger and more mobile baby from
falling out of the breathable sleeping surface insert or using the
upper railing of the insert as a step stool to climb out.
[0129] The SUPPORT POSTS are located at the four rounded corners of
the sleeping surface structure (and, in some embodiments, along the
sides) and are possibly curved, so as to curve around the corners
of the sleeping surface. The support posts stand vertically from
the base railing, connect to the sleeping surface railing and
connect all the way to the top railing of the structure. From
bottom railing to top railing, the height of the support posts are
approximately 24 inches or at a maximum height that matches the
height of the entire crib. A preferred range of height for the
support posts and thus, the entire inserted structure, is between
24 inches and 30 inches. Each support post contains a hole
(approximately 1 to 3 inches in width and 1 to 2 inches in height)
located near the sleeping surface and a hook located approximately
2 to 5 inches below the hole. The hole in each support post
provides the space for the corner loops of a custom breathable
sheet to pass through and then connect and secure to the hooks
located below each hole on the support posts.
[0130] In further embodiments, the support posts, in conjunction
with the mesh walls and the upper railing are made to be
adjustable, so that the height of the walls may become higher as
baby grows and develops. For example, a baby who is sitting up and
learning to stand up will need the walls of the breathable surface
structure to be higher than an infant who is immobile. Thus, if the
walls are higher, a bigger and more mobile baby may not use the
upper railing as a step stool to climb out or potentially fall.
Adjustable support posts may be accomplished by any suitable means.
However, it is preferable that an extension and lock system, where,
for example, the supports are made of separate cylinders (or other
suitable shape) that fit inside one another and extend outward to
become longer or retract inside one another to become shorter (like
a metal pole that extends to become longer and collapses to become
shorter) and locks into place with each extension or
retraction.
[0131] MESH WALLS surround the sleeping surface and connect
vertically from the sleeping surface railing to the top railing.
The Mesh Walls are a minimum of 10 inches in height to a maximum
height that would match the height of the entire crib. The height
of the Mesh Walls may be stationary or may be adjustable in
conjunction with the supports and upper railing. MESH CORNER
BLOCKERS are located in the corners of the structure and extend
from the sleeping surface to the top railing and from adjacent mesh
walls. The mesh corner blockers prevent enclosure occupant from
coming into contact with the opaque support posts in each corner of
the structure. Thus, enclosure occupant is protected from any
opaque surface lacking in breathability and from any hard surface
that could cause impact injury. Each Mesh Corner Blocker will
contain a space nearest the sleep surface to where the corner loops
of the breathable sheet will pass through to then pass through the
holes in the support posts and secure onto the hooks located on the
posts. The top space in between the Mesh Corner Blockers and the
walls and corner posts will also be enclosed with a piece of mesh
sewn between the top of the Mesh Corner Blockers, the top of the
mesh walls and the tops of the corner posts.
[0132] Adjustable Mesh Walls may be accomplished by any suitable
means. However it is suggested that the Mesh Walls (including the
mesh corner blockers) be constructed in such a way that the extra
fabric is rolled or folded within the top railing and as the height
of the posts extend upward, the extra fabric is revealed as it
rolls or unfolds out of the Top Railing (such as what occurs with a
window shade when it extends or retracts).
[0133] The MESH SLEEPING SURFACE is tightly stretched across the
entire surface area of the structure, creating a firm, yet elastic
and breathable surface for the enclosure occupant to sleep.
Furthermore, as the sleeping surface sits several inches above the
base of the structure and crib mattress, the mesh sleeping surface
remains breathable in the event that the infant should be face down
on the surface during sleep. In some embodiments, the sleeping
surface is detachable from the posts and/or sleeping surface
railing by a zipper (or other suitable means) for easy cleaning and
replacement. In preferred embodiments, any attaching mechanism is
located underneath the sleeping surface and along the perimeter of
the sleep surface railing so that the enclosure occupant cannot
access the attaching mechanism. In further embodiments, the
sleeping surface and walls of the structure are made of a material,
such as Phifertex mesh, that can simply be wiped down with a
non-toxic cleaning cloth so that it does not necessarily have to be
detached for cleaning (such as Phifertex mesh, or other polyester
mesh).
[0134] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the Mesh
Sleeping Surface may be constructed of a Phifertex.RTM. mesh, or
similar material which is highly durable, waterproof, cleanable,
and can support a great deal of weight beyond that of even an
average size adult. It is also preferred that the breathable
sleeping surface accommodate a custom breathable sheet that is
detachable for cleaning.
[0135] Breathable Sheet.
[0136] It is preferred that the Breathable Sleep Surface for
Infants accommodate a custom Breathable Sheet (62) made of
breathable materials, such as spacer mesh, or the like. Preferred
is a sheet made of one layer or more of spacer mesh, made in
combination with a fully adhered, sewn, or compressed top surface
layer of cotton or other soft fabric, to which the top surface of
cotton contains the same holes as the spacer mesh. Thus, the sheet
is fully breathable as well as non-abrasive to a baby's delicate
skin. The Breathable Sheet lays upon the mesh sleeping surface to
make the surface comfortable and soft, while keeping the surface
taught, firm, elastic and breathable. In other embodiments, the
layered breathable sheet may be permanently adhered to the sleeping
surface, thus the entire sleeping surface would be removable for
cleaning. However, in preferred embodiments, only the Breathable
Sheet is detachable from the mesh sleeping surface via corner loops
which are fully sewn to the corners of the Breathable Sheet. The
corner loops extend under or through the mesh corner blockers and
then through the holes located in the support posts, and finally
secure the sheet onto the sleep surface by connecting to hooks
located on the support posts of the sleeping surface structure. The
loops, which are fully sewn to the corners of the Breathable Sheet,
are made of a highly durable, strong and stretchy elastic fabric.
Thus, when stretched and connected to the appropriate hooks, the
Breathable Sheet is pulled taught and secure and is thus unmovable
from the sleep surface by anyone accept and adult caretaker. This
style of the sheet also includes a sewn in piece of spacer mesh
which seals any gap between the sleep surface and the space under
or through the mesh corner blockers, thus making it impossible for
an infant's extremities to pass through the area to which the
corners of the sheet pass through or under the mesh corner
blockers. In further embodiments the Breathable Sheet may contain
more or less loops, or may be attachable by another suitable means
such as a zipper. In other embodiments, the Breathable Sheet
includes walls made of spacer mesh to which the corner loops (or
more loops) are attached. This version of the Breathable Sheet,
includes walls that would extend over the top railing of the
structure as well as the top of the corner posts and thus secure
onto the hooks located on the corner posts without passing through
the mesh corner blockers or the support posts to reach the hooks.
It is also possible that this version of the sheet could be made
with extra material that may extend in height and adjust if the
walls of the structure are extended in height as baby grows.
[0137] The breathable sleeping surface structure can be made to sit
flush against the inner mesh wall of the crib so that there is no
gap such that a limb or extremities could get caught between the
inner mesh wall of the crib and the infant sleeping surface
structure. In preferable embodiments, the breathable sleeping
surface is made from a material that is breathable and tightly
woven so a newborn sized finger cannot pass through the material.
In further embodiments the breathable sleeping surface is made to
hold weight in the range of 0 to about 300 pounds. In exemplary
embodiments, the breathable sleeping surface contains about 1 to
about 10 support posts. The breathable sleeping surface can be of a
wide range of dimensions that are fit to make the structure safe
and durable and is thus not limited to the design as described in
this document and is subject to change. In preferable embodiments,
the structure is the size and shape of the crib's mattress, but is
not limited to these dimensions. In other embodiments the width of
the structure matches the width between the inner mesh walls of the
crib and is a bit shorter in length than the length of the crib,
thus making it easy to attach and detach the breathable sheet from
the hooks for cleaning.
[0138] The structure which supports the mesh sleeping surface and
walls will be made of either wood, metal or plastic, or other
suitable material and in some embodiments, covered with an
appropriate cushioning material, such as, for example, foam rubber
or similar material, to further prevent impact injury. The sleep
surface and walls may be made of Phifertex.RTM. mesh, spacer mesh
or other polyester mesh or the like. All materials should contain
non-toxic, or otherwise eco-friendly components and fire proof
coating if necessary and comply by the safety standards of
materials used for baby products, and the safety standards
recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
[0139] Anti-Bunching Crib Sheet.
[0140] The Anti-Bunching Crib Sheet (70) is a sheet made to reduce
bunching or ripples in the fabric of the crib sheet. The ripples or
bunching in a regular fitted sheet can create areas where a baby's
face can get caught, blocking the child's ability to breathe, or
causing the child to rebreathe what they have exhaled. This creates
the possibility of suffocation and other hazardous issues. The
Anti-Bunching Crib Sheet is made to pull the material on the
sleeping surface taught enough so that there are no ripples that
bunch up in the sheet.
[0141] The Anti-Bunching Crib Sheet is made of two segments. A TOP
SURFACE segment (also referred to herein as the "first fitted sheet
portion" 72) and a BOTTOM SURFACE segment (also referred to herein
as the "second anti-bunching portion" 74). The area of the sheet
that is the sleeping surface (the TOP SURFACE segment) may be any
sheet material such as cotton, flannel, or jersey. However it is
preferred that the sheet be made with an air permeable fabric, or
layers of air permeable fabric, such as spacer mesh. Even more
preferred, is a sheet that is made of one or more layers of spacer
mesh and combined with a fully adhered or otherwise sewn in or
compressed top surface layer which is made of cotton or otherwise
soft material, that is created with the exact same breathable holes
as the spacer mesh. Thus, the sheet itself is made of all
breathable material, and furthermore, the top layer of breathable
material is made with a soft fabric that is non-abrasive to a
baby's delicate skin. The sheet can be waterproof or otherwise
lined with a waterproof material so no wetness can damage the
mattress, eliminating the need to put a separate waterproof pad
underneath the crib sheet, which can cause ripples and bunching
underneath the sheet. Connected, or fully sewn, to the perimeter of
the sleeping surface area of the sheet (the area where the vertical
sides of the mattress begin) is a strong elastic material with a
zipper located at the further most edge of the elastic material,
which is nearest the bottom surface segment.
[0142] The BOTTOM SURFACE SEGMENT is adhered, or otherwise placed
and secured to the middle of the bottom surface of the mattress,
and contains the zipper, to which the TOP SURFACE SEGMENT of the
sheet is then connected. As the two segments zip together, the
sheet is pulled taught from top surface to bottom surface all the
way around the mattress and is secured in place. This reduces any
chance of ripples or bunching in the sheet that may occur on an
otherwise unsecured fitted crib sheet, which is not secured in
place and has the potential to become rippled and bunched upon the
sleeping surface when a baby moves about in their sleep. The
Anti-Bunching Crib sheet is also made to be machine washable.
[0143] It should be noted that the entire invention and components
or embodiments within, may be made in virtually any practical
dimension. Larger enclosures, such that would accommodate a larger
mattress, and smaller enclosures, such as bedside cribs are within
the scope of the invention. Furthermore, embodiments of the
invention may be produced in any shape within the realm of
practicality, though a rectangular shape with rounded corners is
preferred in some instances.
[0144] Although the phrase "baby crib" is used herein to generally
describe the invention, the crib can be of a wide range of sizes,
such as to be suitable for newborns, infants, or toddlers and the
design can even be implemented in sizes large enough to use as a
safe enclosure for older children. Thus, while some specific
exemplary dimensions are given herein, the design is general and
flexible enough that it can be implemented in embodiments, which do
not conform to and are not limited by the given dimensions.
[0145] Except as may be expressly otherwise indicated, the article
"a" or "an" if and as used herein is not intended to limit, and
should not be construed as limiting, the description or a claim to
a single element to which the article refers. Rather, the article
"a" or "an" if and as used herein is intended to cover one or more
such elements, unless the text expressly indicates otherwise.
[0146] Each and every patent or other publication or published
document referred to in any portion of this specification is
incorporated in tow into this disclosure by reference, as if fully
set forth herein.
[0147] This invention is susceptible to considerable variation in
its practice. Therefore the foregoing description is not intended
to limit, and should not be construed as limiting, the invention to
the particular exemplifications presented hereinabove.
* * * * *
References