CN204393947U - baby support device - Google Patents

Abstract

An infant support apparatus comprising a lower support frame and a seat or support section positioned on the lower support frame, whereby the lower support frame maintains the seat or support section at a height of 21 inches to 36 inches above a support surface, which allows eye-to-eye communication between an infant on the seat or support section and an adult seated at a standard dining table, and also allows close proximity between an infant on the seat or support section and an adult seated on a standard sofa.

Description

baby support device

Cross References to Related Applications

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/864,156, filed August 9, 2013, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/915,257, filed December 12, 2013, the utility model is fully incorporated All disclosed technical features of this application.

technical field

The present invention relates generally to the field of accessories for infants and children, and in particular to mobile devices for supporting and moving infants or children optimized for access to or interaction with infants or children by parents or caregivers.

Background technique

Various accessories are used for supporting and transporting infants and children for different purposes. For example, a high chair can be used to feed or seat a child who can sit upright, a bassinet or stroller can be used to support a lying or reclining infant or child, and a stroller can be used to move a child from one position to another. Shipping to another location. However, none of these known accessories allow optimal access to or interaction with the infant or child supported therein.

For example, high chairs may not be suitable for children who have not yet grown up enough to sit upright. High chairs also typically provide a seating height that is too high for a caregiver seated on a sofa or other adult furniture to interact with the child. High chair mobility and maneuverability are often limited at best. And the feeding tray, support frame, and/or other components of the high chair may interfere with positioning the infant or child very close to a caregiver seated on a sofa or other adult furniture, and limit the caregiver's access to or interaction with the infant.

Conversely, the support height of known bassinets and strollers is often too low for a caregiver to easily interact with and approach the child while seated on a sofa or other adult furniture, or while the caregiver is seated at a table eating. The mobility and maneuverability of bassinets and strollers are often limited at best. And the support frame, stroller handle, and/or other components of the bassinet or stroller may prevent positioning the infant or child in close proximity to a caregiver seated on a sofa or other adult furniture and limit the caregiver's access to or interaction with the infant.

Strollers also often position the infant or child too low for the caregiver to easily interact with and approach the child while seated on a sofa or other adult furniture, or while the caregiver is seated at a table eating. Stroller mobility and maneuverability are generally best for use outdoors or in open interior areas, but may not be good for moving infants or children around the home or other interior spaces where dense Furniture and narrow doorways and hallways can hinder the movement and turning of the cart. Stroller handles and support frames, large wheel assemblies, feeding trays, and other components may also prevent positioning the infant or child in close proximity to a caregiver seated on a sofa or other adult furniture and limit the caregiver's access to or with the infant. interactive.

Accordingly, it has been found that there is a need for a mobile device for supporting and moving an infant or child that is optimized for approaching or interacting with an infant or child by a parent or caregiver, especially, for example, in a home or other interior space. There should be provided a mobility device for supporting and moving an infant or child that meets these and other needs to which the present invention is primarily directed.

Contents of the invention

In an exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides a mobile device for supporting and moving an infant or child optimized for approaching or interacting with the infant or child by a parent or caregiver, for example, in the home or otherwise. in the inner space. The configuration of an example embodiment of the support and transport device of the present invention allows parents to position their infant or child in close proximity (e.g., when seated on a sofa, easy chair, or other adult furniture, or when seated at a table for meals) . The configuration of example embodiments of the support and motion device of the present invention also enables it to be easily moved and manipulated within a home or other interior spaces where dense furniture and narrow doorways may prevent movement and turning of other devices.

In one aspect, the present invention relates to an optimized access infant support apparatus comprising a lower support frame and a seat or resting portion supported on the lower support frame whereby the lower support frame places the seat or resting The portion is maintained at a height of about 21 inches to about 36 inches above the support surface. In one aspect, the seat or support portion is held at a height of approximately 29 inches.

In another aspect, the present invention relates to an optimized access infant support apparatus comprising a lower support frame and a seat or support portion supported on the lower support frame, wherein the seat or support portion is at an angle of about 15° to about 40° The inclination angle is oriented.

In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to an optimized access infant support apparatus comprising a lower support frame, a seat or support portion supported on the lower support frame, and a grip handle including a surrounding grip ring, It generally surrounds the seat or support portion.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a mobility device for supporting and moving an infant or child comprising a seat portion and a support frame. A support frame supports the seat portion and includes one or more support legs and one or more cross members extending between the support legs. The support legs generally extend from a proximal end proximate the seat portion to a distal end proximate a support surface of the support frame or other floor surface. In one form, the distal end of the support frame defines a perimeter including a width (W) and a length (L). In certain example embodiments, the width is between about 14 inches and 23 inches and the length is between about 19 inches and 32 inches, and the length to width aspect ratio (L/W) is between about 0.8 and about 2.2 .

In yet another aspect, the invention relates to a mobile infant support apparatus comprising a seat or support portion for supporting a child or infant and a support frame for supporting the seat or support portion adjacent a support surface. In an exemplary form, the support frame holds the seat or support portion at an elevation relative to the support surface such that there is no line of sight between an infant on the seat or support portion and an adult seated at a standard dining table or on a sofa Eye contact can be easily maintained.

These and other aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will be understood by reference to the drawings and detailed description herein, and will be realized by the various components and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It should be understood that the foregoing general overview of the utility model, the following description of the drawings and the specific description are examples and descriptions of preferred embodiments of the utility model, and are not limited by the claims of the utility model.

Description of drawings

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a mobility device for supporting and moving an infant or child according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

2 is a side perspective view of the mobility device shown in FIG. 1 for supporting and moving an infant or child.

3 is a detailed view of the lower support frame portion of the mobility device shown in FIG. 1 for supporting and moving an infant or child.

4A-4F show additional example embodiments of a mobility device for supporting and moving an infant or child in accordance with the present invention.

Detailed ways

The utility model can be understood more easily with reference to the following detailed description of the utility model in connection with the accompanying drawings constituting a part of the disclosed technology. It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific devices, methods, conditions or parameters described and/or shown herein, and that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing specific embodiments by way of example only, and is not intended to Limit the purpose of this utility model. While fully set forth herein, any and all patents and other publications mentioned in this specification are hereby incorporated by reference.

Likewise, as used in the specification, including the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural referents and references to a particular value include at least that particular value unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Condition. Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" or "approximately" one particular value and/or to "about" or "approximately" another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Likewise, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the prefix "about," it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment.

Referring now to the drawings, in which like reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout, FIGS. 1-3 show a mobility device 10 for supporting and moving an infant or child, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Apparatus 10 generally includes a support frame 20 and a seat or support portion 40 supported on the support frame. The seat or support portion 40 can be directly coupled to the support frame 20, or can be indirectly coupled to the frame through one or more intermediate links, linkages, or connecting members. Optionally, at least some freedom of movement is provided between the seat or support portion 40 and the support frame 20, such as allowing the seat or rest portion to rock, jiggle, bounce, swing relative to the support frame and the underlying support surface. or other ranges of motion. In an example form, the mobile support device is configured for use with infants aged 0 to 6 months, where proximity by and interaction with a parent or other adult caregiver is most often required, but in an alternative form, It can be adapted for other uses.

The support frame 20 preferably includes one or more (four in the depicted embodiment) support legs or posts 22 for providing structural support to hold the seat or support section 40 against the floor or other support surface. a height above. One or more cross members or braces 24 extend between the legs 22 and/or other braces. Wheels or rollers 26 mounted at the distal or lower ends of the legs 22 allow the mobile support 10 to be easily moved along the floor or other support surface. Optionally, the wheels 26 include casters, or may otherwise pivot to provide easy maneuverability. In exemplary form, the wheel 26 has a diameter of between about 2.5 inches and 5 inches, more preferably between about 3 inches and 4 inches, such as about 3.5 inches. Frame 20 is optionally collapsible or collapsible for compact storage and transport, eg, via one or more hinged connections, pins, snaps, or other connecting or coupling means. A storage tray 28 or other container or compartment for holding toys or other items is optionally mounted on the cross member 24 or otherwise connected to the frame 20 .

In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in phantom in FIG. 2 , the distal or lower ends of the legs 22 of the support frame 20 define a contour or perimeter P along a floor or other support surface within which the mobile support device 10 is substantially or completely contained. Inside the upward projection. In the described embodiment, the perimeter P is generally rectangular or square in outline, which is defined around the four legs 22, but in alternative embodiments, based on the number and configuration of the legs of the support frame, its outline can be is, for example, a triangle, a polygon, or a circle. In an exemplary embodiment, perimeter P has a width of between about 14 inches and 23 inches, preferably between about 16 inches and 20 inches, and for example has a width (W) of about 18 inches and a length of about 19 inches to 31 inches. inches, preferably between about 22 inches-28 inches, and for example a length (L) of about 25 inches, such as about 18 inches*25 inches, defining a length-to-width aspect ratio (L/W) of about 0.8 -2.2, preferably between about 1.1-1.8, and for example about 1.4. Alternatively, the legs 22 are approximately arched such that their lower or distal portions are oriented more vertically and their upper or proximal portions are curved at a more horizontal or oblique angle, which is convex or outward oriented. The transverse braces 24 are optionally recessed from the upward projection of the perimeter P, for example, by providing them with an inward or concave curvature and/or by an inward attachment of the support legs 22 (see, for example, best seen in FIG. 3 ). Way). In this way, the mobile support device 10 can be positioned in close proximity to a caregiver seated on the piece of furniture without the support frame 20 interfering with movement and positioning of the device.

In the exemplary embodiment, the seat or support portion 40 includes a fabric or textile sling 42 mounted on a seat frame 44 to form a curved seat or bassinet for comfortably receiving an infant or child. The sling 42 optionally includes structural support and/or padding for improved comfort and positioning. One or more strap or harness connections may optionally be provided to secure the child in the sling 42 . The sling 42 and/or seat frame 44 are optionally repositionable to allow reclining, elevation or other positioning adjustments of the seat or support portion 40, such as via cinch cords or straps, quick couplers, Pivot connection or other positioning adjustment device. In an example embodiment, the seat or support portion 40 is positioned or positionable at an angle of inclination of between about 15°-40° from horizontal, such as about 27.5° relative to horizontal.

The mobile support device 10 preferably further includes an accessible handle 60 having multiple gripping or contact surfaces positioned at different points around the seat or support portion 40 . In an exemplary embodiment, the handle 60 provides access for grasping near at least two of the head end, foot end, left side, and/or right side of the seat or support portion 40, and more preferably from three or all four of its sides. In the depicted embodiment, the handle 60 comprises a wraparound or perimeter handle that is oval or oval shaped, or a grip ring that extends around all or most of the seat or support portion 40 . In this way, the handle can be grasped to push or pull the device 10 from any position for improved mobility and operability. The provision of a surrounding handle or ring in the described embodiment allows the handle to provide an additional function of a protective bumper around the seat or support portion 40 of the mobile support device 10 . The handle 60 is preferably positioned adjacent or immediately below the upper edge of the seat or support portion 40 formed by the seat frame 44 and closely or generally conforms to the perimeter contour of the seat frame. In the exemplary embodiment, surrounding handle 60 defines an upper support frame portion that is generally aligned with the upward projection of perimeter P of lower support frame 20. In alternative embodiments, the surrounding handle 60 may be offset from the projection of the perimeter P of the lower support frame 20; either inwardly relative to the lower support frame for improved stability, or outwardly for The lower support frame is positioned for improved access by an adult caregiver to or near an infant when against a sofa or other piece of furniture.

In an example embodiment, the handle 60 is coupled to the support frame 20 and the seat frame 44 is suspended from or otherwise coupled to the handle. An articulated connection, one or more springs, or other engagement means operably connected between the seat frame 44 and the handle 60 or support frame 20 selectively allows movement of the seat or support portion 40 relative to the support frame for For soothing or engaging an infant or child positioned in the mobile support device 10. In an example embodiment, the seat 40 may jiggle, rock, swing, bounce, or otherwise move. Motorized or manually powered movement mechanisms are optionally available. A pivot linkage is optionally provided between the support frame 20 and the handle 60 to allow adjustment of the inclination of the seat 40 . An upper member 80 (e.g., a canopy, toy bar, or handle) is optionally attached to the seat 40, e.g., by pivoting or fixedly connecting to a multi-connection hub or hub coupled to the support frame 20 and/or the handle 60. Mounting member 82 . Optionally, a vibration unit may be attached to the support frame 20 or the seat frame 40 for soothing an infant or child in the mobile support device 10 .

In an example embodiment, the mobile support device is configured to position the infant or child at an elevation or height and/or orientation that is optimized for approaching, approaching, or interacting with an adult caregiver in various situations, for example, when the caregiver While standing, walking, sitting at a table, or sitting in a sofa, easy chair, or other adult furniture. For example, the theoretical or median height (H) of the seat or support portion 40 may be positioned between about 21 inches and 36 inches above the ground, and more preferably between about 26 inches and 32 inches, e.g. about 29 inches tall; thus, for example, defining a height-to-width aspect ratio (H/W) of between about 0.9-2.6, preferably between 1.3-2.0, and for example about 1.6; and the length and width The aspect ratio (L/W) of is about 0.8-2.2, preferably about 1.1-1.8, and for example about 1.4. Alternatively, the seat or support portion 40 may be adjustable in height. In an example embodiment, the surrounding handle 60 may be inclined at an inclination angle (e.g., about 27.5°) relative to the horizontal, e.g., between about 15°-40°, or have a staggered profile along its length so that The lower portion of the foot end of the seat is positioned below the theoretical or median height (H) of the seat, thereby providing a convenient grip position for the caregiver while seated; and the upper portion of the head end of the seat is positioned as Above theoretical or median height, thereby providing a convenient grip position for the caregiver while standing or walking. In an exemplary embodiment, the handle at the foot end has an elevation of about 13 inches to 22 inches above the floor, preferably between about 16 inches and 19 inches, and for example about 17.5 inches; The elevation of the end handle is about 22"-38" high above the floor, preferably between about 27"-33" high, and for example about 30". In this way, the height of the seat or support section allows for eye contact between the infant on the seat or support section and an adult seated at a standard dining table, and also allows the infant on the seat or support section to communicate with an adult seated at a standard dining table. The close proximity between adults seated on a standard sofa. For example, the mobile support device can be positioned adjacent to a standard sofa, with the infant within 12 inches to 36 inches of an adult, and preferably within 24 inches or closer of an adult; and/or when the infant is positioned When an adult is about 48 inches to 60 inches, the line of sight between the infant's eye level and the adult's eye level is between about 0°-30° relative to horizontal, preferably 15° or less.

Figures 4A-4C show an alternative embodiment of a mobile support device 110, Figure 4D shows another alternative embodiment of a mobile support device 210, and Figures 4E and 4F show yet another embodiment of a mobile support device 310, according to various forms of the invention. An alternate embodiment. In its various forms, a child support device includes a frame configured to rest on a support surface and a seat coupled to the frame and adapted to receive an infant. Preferably, the support means includes one or more wheel assemblies or other turning/sliding means which allow the support means to be turned across the support surface. Example embodiments of the wheel assembly can include a locking mechanism to selectively prevent rolling of the child support device. The wheel assembly can also or alternatively include a braking mechanism that engages in the event of an accidental roll. For example, one or more wheel assemblies 126 of movable support device 110 may include brakes 127 for selectively engaging to prevent rotation of the wheels thereby resisting movement of the device, or disengaging to release the wheels and permit movement of the device. Handles can also be included to assist a caregiver in pushing or pulling the support device from room to room. Example embodiments of the handle are movable between various positions, such as on, behind or in front of the seat. The seat can be coupled to the frame by one or more resilient members, such as springs or compliant wires, which allow the seat to bounce or rock with respect to the frame. This bouncing motion soothes the child, and the resilient suspension softens the uncomfortable effect of any bumping as the support device is rolled from one place to another. Example embodiments of the seat are also capable of being selectively reclined relative to the support surface via an adjustable textile or mechanical reclining mechanism. Also, various accessories can be attached to the child support device, such as vibrating units, trays, and/or storage boxes. The support device may further be configured to collapse for easy storage and transport.

In a further alternative embodiment, the seat or support portion is optionally detachable or removable from the coupling or receiver of the lower support frame. In this way, the lower support frame may be one or more interchangeable seats, supports, supports, adjustable A table or other accessory provides a docking station.

For improved mobility of the device and accessibility to infants or children, exemplary embodiments of mobile support devices according to the present invention do not include any feeding trays, push handles or other components normally included on high chairs or strollers, Or at least exclude components that are positioned or configured to extend generally beyond the upward projection of the perimeter of the support frame of the device, where they may interfere with mobility, maneuverability, access to, proximity to, or interaction with the infant. Alternatively, as depicted in FIG. 4D , the tray 230 may project at least partially outward from the upper portion of the support frame 220 beyond the upward projection of the perimeter of the support frame, but is preferably positioned so as not to impede mobility, operable Sexual, approaching, approaching or interacting with infants.

Although the invention has been described with reference to preferred and exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications, additions and deletions are included within the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

Claims (23)

1. a baby support, it is characterized in that, it comprises lower support framework and the seat be supported on described lower support framework or supporting part, and thus, described seat or supporting part are remained on the height of on stayed surface 21 inches to 36 inches by described lower support framework.

2. baby support as claimed in claim 1, it is characterized in that, described seat or supporting part are remained on the height of 26 inches-32 inches by wherein said lower support framework.

3. baby support as claimed in claim 1, it is characterized in that, described seat or supporting part are remained on the height of about 29 inches by wherein said lower support framework.

4. baby support as claimed in claim 1, it is characterized in that, the height of wherein said seat or supporting part is adjustable.

5. baby support as claimed in claim 1, it is characterized in that, wherein said lower support framework comprises at least one wheel further, for the mobility of described baby support.

6. baby support as claimed in claim 1, it is characterized in that, wherein said seat or supporting part are directed with the inclination angle of 15 ° to 40 °.

7. baby support as claimed in claim 1, it is characterized in that, the inclination angle of wherein said seat or supporting part is adjustable.

8. baby support as claimed in claim 1, it is characterized in that, it comprises grasping member further.

9. baby support as claimed in claim 8, it is characterized in that, wherein said grasping member is being spendable around multiple positions of described seat or supporting part.

10. baby support as claimed in claim 8, is characterized in that, wherein said grasping member is that it is roughly around described seat or supporting part around grasping ring.

11. baby support as claimed in claim 1, it is characterized in that, wherein said lower support framework comprises multiple leg.

12. baby support as claimed in claim 11, it is characterized in that, wherein said lower support framework comprises at least one cross member further, and it extends between described leg.

13. baby support as claimed in claim 12, is characterized in that, wherein said leg limits periphery, and described cross member is from projection indent one segment distance of described periphery.

14. baby support as claimed in claim 11, is characterized in that, wherein said leg limits periphery, and wherein said seat or supporting part roughly align with the projection of described periphery.

15. baby support as claimed in claim 11, is characterized in that, wherein said leg limits periphery, and wherein said seat or supporting part extend slightly beyond the projection of described periphery at least one direction.

16. baby support as claimed in claim 11, is characterized in that, wherein said leg limits periphery, and wherein said seat or supporting part do not extend beyond the projection of described periphery.

17. baby support as claimed in claim 11, is characterized in that, wherein said leg limits periphery, and wherein said device does not comprise any cart handle or the nursing tray portion that extend beyond the projection of described periphery.

18. baby support as claimed in claim 1, is characterized in that, the sight line Eye contact that the height of wherein said seat or supporting part is allowed baby on described seat or supporting part and is seated between the other adult of standard dining table.

19. baby support as claimed in claim 1, is characterized in that, the height of described seat or supporting part is allowed baby on described seat or supporting part and is seated between the adult on standard sofa closely close.

20. baby support as claimed in claim 1, it is characterized in that, the sight line Eye contact that the height of described seat or supporting part is allowed baby on described seat or supporting part and is seated between the other adult of standard dining table, and allow baby on described seat or supporting part and be seated between the adult on standard sofa closely close.

21. baby support as claimed in claim 1, it is characterized in that, it comprises connector further, and described connector allows the movement between described lower support framework and described seat or supporting part.

22. baby support as claimed in claim 1, is characterized in that, the baby on seat or supporting part is consoled in the movement between wherein said lower support framework and described seat or supporting part.

23. baby support as claimed in claim 1, is characterized in that, the movement between wherein said lower support framework and described seat or supporting part is that jog moves.