AU2016208369A1 - Infant sleep bag and swaddling apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

An infant sleep bag, comprising a main body configured to receive the torso and legs of an infant, the main body including multiple fixing points and arm portions arranged on either side 5 of the main body configured to receive the arms of an infant, wherein respective arm portions include fixing means adapted to engage with respective ones of the multiple fixing points, whereby to enable the arms of the bag to be placed into selected ones of multiple configurations. 10 [Figure I] ooo o(3 Is'

Description

INFANT SLEEP BAG AND SWADDLING APPARATUS TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates, in general, to an infant sleep apparatus, and more particularly, although not exclusively to infant sleep bags and swaddles.

BACKGROUND

Baby sleep or sleeping bags, and more generally infant and child sleeping bags, are a convenient and safe alternative to traditional blankets, and are typically recognised as safer alternatives compared to more traditional bedding as they prevent an infant’s head from getting covered by bedding. In addition, they prevent the infant from kicking off bedding and waking up because they are cold for example.

Swaddling can be used to wrap an infant for warmth and security, and can prevent an infant baby from being disturbed by their own startle reflex. However, if an infant is swaddled too tightly there is a risk of overheating and/or a risk of hip dysplasia for example. Furthermore, one swaddling position may not be suitable for all infants. The ability to be able to modify the swaddle position of an infant can be advantageous in order to accommodate different infant needs and sizes.

SUMMARY A first aspect of the invention provides an infant sleep bag, comprising a main body configured to receive the torso and legs of an infant, the main body including multiple fixing points and arm portions arranged on either side of the main body configured to receive the arms of an infant, wherein respective arm portions include fixing means adapted to engage with respective ones of the multiple fixing points, whereby to enable the arms of the bag to be placed into selected ones of multiple configurations.

Each arm portion may comprise multiple fixing means. The fixing portions and fixing means may in the form of poppers (male/female), hook and loop fastening and so on. Respective ones of the multiple fixing means can be arranged in spaced relation to one another on an arm portion. At least some of the multiple fixing means can be arranged around the periphery of an arm portion. For example, the fixing means may be arranged around the edges of the arms and spaced from one another to enable multiple different swaddling configurations to be selected. Individual ones of the multiple fixing means can be configured to engage with one of the multiple fixing points on the main body of the bag. For example, male/female popper portions on the main body can engage with corresponding female/male popper portions on the arms. Each of the multiple fixing means is configured to engage with respective different ones of the multiple fixing points on the main body of the bag.

In an example, the arm portions are in the form of a bolero or shrug which can be attached to or integral with the portions of the rear of the main body of the bag. The arm portions can be attached to or integral with the rear of the main body of the bag along a lateral line of attachment widthways across the back of the main body. Respective ones of the arms may be positioned differently from one another. That is, each arm portion may be placed into a different configuration to form an asymmetrical swaddling configuration. Respective arm portions can comprise a pocket configured to receive the arms of an infant. An infant’s arm placed into an arm portion can be maintained in an elbows bent hands raised position when the arm portions are not attached to the main body for example. The arm portions can include an arm opening to receive the arms of an infant, and a further opening for the infant’s hands to pass out of.

The fixing points can be positioned in a central region of the front of the main body of the bag. They may be attached to the bag by way of a secondary piece of material to provide reinforcement and/or cushioning for example. The arm portions can include hand openings. A hand opening can include a closure mechanism, whereby to enable the cuff of the hand opening to be reduced in size. An opening can be provided between respective arm portions and the main body of the bag. This can enable warm air to vent from the bag. A front and/or rear opening configured to receive at least a portion of a harness or strap for securing an infant can be provided. One or more visual indicators arranged on, around or in the proximity of the fixing points can be provided, whereby to indicate swaddling configurations for a user. A second aspect of the invention provides apparatus comprising a main body portion comprising multiple fixing points configured to enable one of multiple swaddling positions to be selected, and arm portions arranged on either side of the main body, wherein respective arm portions include fixing means configured to engage with respective ones of the multiple fixing points.

The arm portions can be in the form of a bolero or shrug which is attached to or integral with the rear of the main body at least one portion of the rear of the main body. The arm portions can be attached to or integral with the rear of the main body of the bag at a lateral line of attachment across the back of the main body. A visual indicator on, around or in the proximity of one or more of the multiple fixing points can be provided, whereby to provide a mapping relating a fixing point to a swaddling configuration.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure I is a schematic representation of an infant sleep or sleeping bag or apparatus according to an example;

Figure 2 is a schematic representation of multiple fixing points according to an example;

Figure 3 is a schematic representation of multiple fixing points according to an example;

Figure 4 is a schematic representation of an infant sleep bag according to an example;

Figure 5-9 are schematic representations of an infant sleep bag according to an example;

Figures 10 and I I are front and rear schematic representations of an upper structure according to an example;

Figure 12 is a schematic representation of the rear of an infant sleep bag according to an example; and

Figures 13a-b are schematic representation of an infant sleep bag according to an example. DESCRIPTION

Example embodiments are described below in sufficient detail to enable those of ordinary skill in the art to embody and implement the systems and processes herein described. It is important to understand that embodiments can be provided in many alternate forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set forth herein.

Accordingly, while embodiments can be modified in various ways and take on various alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof are shown in the drawings and described in detail below as examples. There is no intent to limit to the particular forms disclosed. On the contrary, all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the appended claims should be included. Elements of the example embodiments are consistently denoted by the same reference numerals throughout the drawings and detailed description where appropriate.

The terminology used herein to describe embodiments is not intended to limit the scope. The articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are singular in that they have a single referent, however the use of the singular form in the present document should not preclude the presence of more than one referent. In other words, elements referred to in the singular can number one or more, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” and/or “including,” when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, items, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, items, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein are to be interpreted as is customary in the art. It will be further understood that terms in common usage should also be interpreted as is customary in the relevant art and not in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

Figure I is a schematic representation of an infant sleep or sleeping bag or apparatus, such as a swaddling apparatus, according to an example. The bag 100 comprises an upper region, depicted generally as 103 and a lower region, depicted generally as 105. The upper and lower regions are separated from another, in an example, by a seam 107. The material used for the upper and lower regions may be the same or different. The thermal rating of the upper and lower regions may be the same or different. For example, the lower region may have a higher thermal rating (e.g. tog value) than the upper region, which itself may be made from a material with an elastic component to promote a swaddling function. Materials with an antibacterial, antimicrobial or insecticidal function or property may be used in either or both regions.

Lower region 105, as depicted in figure I for example, can be flared. That is, the lower region can widen away from the upper region in order to provide room for unhindered leg movement, which can be beneficial to reduce the risk of hip dysplasia in infants. A closure mechanism (not shown) can be provided around at least a portion of the lower region to enable the lower region to be opened to allow a nappy, for instance, to be changed without having to completely remove an infant from the bag 100.

On either side of a neck opening 109, flap portions I I 1, 113 can be provided, which may be independently opened or closed using, for example, poppers, whereby to enable the bag 100 to be fully opened so that an infant may be introduced or removed therefrom. The arms of an infant in the bag 100 pass through arm hole openings 115, I 17 in the main body of the bag 100. In an example, the main body can receive the torso and legs of an infant, and may therefore include the upper and lower regions of the bag. The main body includes multiple fixing points 119. In the example of figure I, the fixing points are arranged on the upper region 103 of the bag 100 (front bodice portion), below the neck opening 109 and above the seam 107.

The fixing points can be provided on an area I 18 of reinforcement in the form of an additional area of material for example as will be described in more detail below with reference to figure 2.

Arm portions 121, 123 are arranged on either side of the main body and are configured to receive the arms of an infant. Respective arm portions 123, 123 include fixing means adapted to engage with respective ones of the multiple fixing points I 19, whereby to enable the arm portions of the bag to be placed into selected ones of multiple configurations as will be described below in more detail.

Openings 125, 127 on the arm portions 121, 123 are provided for an infant’s hands to pass through. That is, the arms of an infant in bag 100 pass through openings 115, 117, are introduced in the arm portions 121, 123 and the hands pass out through openings 125, 127 such that the arms are held (as shown in the configuration of figure I) in place in the arm portions 121, 123 in an ‘elbow bent’ configuration with the hands located outside of the arm portions whereby to enable an infant to access the hands directly for non-nutritive sucking for example, which is known to have a beneficial and soothing effect. Advantageously, because the hands are free of the bag and arm portions, non-nutritive sucking and so on does not result in soggy material that would otherwise be the case if the hands were inside the arm portions (or bag).

In the example of figure I, the fixing means are in the form of popper portions 121 a-c, 123a-c (male or female) that can engage with corresponding (female or male) popper portions I 19. More or less fixing means may be provided in different positions on the arms. There is a symmetry to the distribution of fixing points I 19 (about the vertical through the centre of the bag 100 in the example of figure I), which enables the arm portions 121, 123 to be arranged or fixed in the same way, if desired. Alternatively, arm portions 121, 123 may be arranged in different positions relative to one another simply by using a different set of fixings on either one or both of the arm portions and main body.

Figure 2 is a schematic representation of multiple fixing points according to an example. In the example of figure 2 the fixing points I 19 are in the same configuration as those of figure I, and are symmetrical about a vertical line 201. The fixing points 200a-j can be provided on a portion or area of material 203 of any desired shape and which can be fixed to the bag 100 by sewing for example. The shape may be chosen to complement the arrangement of the fixing points, or may be a more fanciful design suitable for an infant sleeping bag. The portion 203 can provide reinforcement for the fixing points 200a-j, which may be popper portions, as noted above. For example, the fixing means may be securely attached to the portion 203 which can then be fixed to the bag 100. In this way, any part of the fixing portions that may protrude from the rear of the portion 203 will be cushioned by the outer layer of material of the bag 100 when the portion 203 is secured thereto. This will prevent any protruding portion coming into contact with an infant in the bag, and also serve to cushion an infant from any injury or discomfort as a result of the fixing portions being engaged with corresponding portions on the arms of the bag.

The portion or area 203 (I 18) can include an indication such as a visual indication as to how the various fixing points may be used in relation to the configuration that they place an infant’s arms into. For example, a colour coding may be provided on, around or in the proximity of some or each of the fixing points which can be used to map to specific swaddling configurations based on the way those fixing points are attached to the corresponding fixing portions on the arms. The colour coding can be replaced by or augmented with textual information for a user to indicate the nature of the swaddling configurations.

Figure 3 is a schematic representation of multiple fixing points according to an example. In the example of figure 3 the fixing points I 19 are in a different configuration as those of figures I and 2. The fixing points I 19 are symmetrical about a vertical line 301 and may be provided on a portion of material 303, similarly to that described with reference to figure 2. Broadly speaking, the configurations shown in figures 2 and 3 provide the opportunity for multiple swaddling positions to be selected by a user. The non-linear arrangement of the fixing points enables suitable swaddling position to be selected, as will be described below in more detail.

In an example, the fixing points need not be symmetrically positioned about the vertical as depicted in the examples of figure I -3. There may be symmetry about another line which may be offset from the centre of the area 203 (118) for example, or which may be horizontal or angled. In an example, the configuration may be random or at least devoid of any immediately discernible pattern or symmetry.

With reference to figure 2, by engaging a corresponding popper portion on an arm portion of the bag 100 to one of the portions 200a-j, the arm portion can be releasably fixed in place, whereby to provide a swaddling function. This is similarly the case with the arrangement shown in figure 3. Accordingly, multiple interchangeable arm positions can be provided, thereby enabling the upper body of an infant to be safely swaddled in any one of a number of positions or configurations whilst ensuring that the infant is wrapped below the neck to avoid covering the face.

In an example, an underarm ventilation portion for each arm 129, 131 can be provided. This can, as in the example shown in figure I, default to being always open, or alternatively can be closable. For example, poppers provided on the side seams 133, 135 can be configured to enable the opening 129 to be closed. Similar considerations apply to opening 131. Thus, one or both arms can be opened up to allow an infant to cool down. The lack of fabric in the ventilation portions also means that in each arm position fabric will not gather up under an infant’s arms, therefore preventing this area from getting too hot.

Figure 4 is a schematic representation of an infant sleep bag according to an example. In the example of figure 4, the arm portions 401,403 are attached in a first configuration representing a ‘hands-to-chin’ swaddling position. Fixing means 405, 407, which in the example of figure 4 are popper portions, engage with corresponding popper portions on the front bodice of the bag 400 (which are obscured from view in this example, but which may be portions 200a and 200f shown in figure 2, or correspondingly positioned portions on the arrangement shown in figure 3). Hand openings 125, 127 are shown, and their position relative to the region in which an infant’s head would be is such as to enable non-nutritive sucking.

It is typically accepted that tight chest swaddling/wrapping is linked with an increased risk of pneumonia. However, the present bag freely allows for chest wall expansion as no wrapping is done.

All of the arm positions also allow for elbow flexion, and snugly swaddle the tummy. There is typically no need to discontinue use when an infant can roll (usually around 4-6 months old). Rather, the bag can be used in a “transitional” position, such as shown in figure I for example. Once the startle reflex has disappeared (usually around 3 months), an infant can wear the bag in the open-arm or transitional position. An infant who resists standard swaddling positions can also wear the product in these two positions.

Hands can also be positioned in a “down” or “to-tummy” position to keep hands from impairing latch-on when establishing breastfeeding. The hands can then be positioned in all other positions once latch-on is established and baby is feeding well. A benefit of baby’s hands being uncovered in these positions means mother and baby can benefit from being skin to skin.

Thus, a variety of swaddling techniques/positions appropriate to the baby’s developmental age can be used based on the principals of safe swaddling. For example, younger infants less than 3 months old may have their arms included in the wrap to reduce the effect of the startle reflex, whilst an older baby over 3 months may have their lower body wrapped and their hands free allowing them access to their hands and fingers to promote self-soothing behaviour. This also reduces the risk of the baby turning onto its tummy.

Figure 5-9 are schematic representations of an infant sleep bag according to an example. Each of the examples shown in figures 5-9 represents a different swaddling configuration in which the arm portions are engaged with the fixings on the bodice of the bag at different positions. Figure 5, for example, provides an “arms down” swaddling positon. Figure 6 provides a “hands-to-tummy” swaddling position. Figure 7 provides a “hands-to-face/cheek” swaddling position. Figure 8 provides a “hands-to-heart” swaddling position. Figure 9 shows a transitional configuration, in which the arms of an infant are placed fully through the wrist openings in the arm portions to provide a “short sleeved” configuration. Figure I shows an alternative transitional position in which there is no swaddling.

As can be seen with reference to figures 5-9, taking into account the provision of multiple fixing means I2la-c, I23a-c on the arms portions 123, 123, a large number of swaddling and other (such as transitional) positions is provided for. As noted above, each of the arm portions may be in a different configuration. That is, it is not necessary for both arm portions to be fixed in the same way, and different swaddling configurations can be used on different arms.

According to an example, the arm portions 121, 123 can be attached to the main body of a bag (composed of the upper and lower regions as described above) in the form of a bolero. That is, the arm portions can be provided as part of an upper structure that can be connected or attached to a bag. This may be in the form a permanent attachment (such as performed at time of manufacture for example), or removable attachment that may be performed by an end user so as to enable a bag to be converted into a swaddle apparatus as described herein.

The bolero portion or upper structure may be stitched to the rear of the upper region of the main body along the back of the neck area and along the back of the bag in line with seam 107 for example. In this way, a degree of stretch/movement can be provided so that it is easier to pass the arms of an infant through the portions and out of the wrist holes, and also so that there is some degree of flexibility in the arm portions to enable the different swaddling configurations to be used without causing any constriction of the infant.

Figures 10 and I I are front and rear schematic representations of an upper structure according to an example. More particularly, figure 10 shows the upper structure (or bolero portion) 1000 from the front. In the example of figure 10 the fixing means I 19 are omitted for clarity. Portions 121, 123 are in the form of sleeves - arms are inserted in direction A under seams 135, 136 through the sleeves, and then the hands pass in direction B from the openings 125, 127. Figure I I shows the portion of figure 10 from the rear.

In an example, the upper structure as shown in figures 10 and I I is attached or otherwise connected to an infant sleep bag in order to provide the apparatus as depicted in figures I -9. Figures 10 and I I depict certain aspects of the apparatus in more detail. The attachment may occur across the bottom 1001 and top 1003 of the structure, or may be localised across portions of these, such as using only the curved neck region 1007 for example. As such, the upper structure and the bag define a channel between the front 1005 of the structure 1000 and the rear of the upper region of the bag. This enables a degree of stretch for the structure, as it is only connected to the bag edgewise, that is at upper and lower regions of the structure. Accordingly, as shown in figure I I for example, the upper structure, when attached to a bag, can be stretched in the directions S by, very broadly, the magnitude shown by the length of the arrows. That is, as the edges 1001, 1003 where the structure 1000 is attached to the bag are approached, the degree of movement reduces compared to the latitude of movement provided at the centre. The movement allows an infant’s arms to be easily inserted, whilst also allowing some degree of movement to prevent the infant from being constricted.

Figure 12 is a schematic representation of the rear of an infant sleep bag according to an example. In the example of figure 12, the bottom 1001 of the upper structure comprising the arm portions 121, 123 is in line with the seam position 107, although this need not be the case as will be appreciated.

Figures 13a-b are schematic representations of an infant sleep bag according to an example. In the example shown in figures 13a-b (which show front and rear views of the same bag), openings 1301, 1303 can be provided to enable the bag to be used with a harness, such as a five point harness for example, for travelling. Typically, with swaddling-type products, the arms are inside the product and so a five point harness would be sitting over the top of the child’s arms/hands, meaning that the straps are not sitting alongside their torso, (which would typically be against user instructions). Accordingly, if they were involved in a car crash for example, their hands and arms would crush against their bodies leading to actual bodily harm and it would also affect the functionality of the car seat to the extent that a child may even come out of their car seat.

In an example, if a parent wanted to swaddle their child whilst in a car seat or pushchair, they would simply put their child into a travelling device with their arms in an open / transitional position and a five point harness would then be closed around the child so that the arms would be positioned over the shoulder straps into the required swaddling position.

The travel opening 1301, 1303 can be made with a large bound buttonhole opening that a buckle can be inserted through when required. The opening may be closed when not in use by hook and loop type fastening which is attached female side to a flap, male side to the products skirt so that the rough male Velcro will not rub against the child

The present inventions can be embodied in other specific apparatus and/or methods. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.

In particular, the scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the description and figures herein. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Prior art, if any, described herein is not to be taken as an admission that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in any jurisdiction.

In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises" or “comprising" is used in an inclusive sense, that is to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

Claims (5)

1. An infant sleep bag, comprising: a main body configured to receive the torso and legs of an infant, the main body including multiple fixing points; and arm portions arranged on either side of the main body configured to receive the arms of an infant, wherein respective arm portions include fixing means adapted to engage with respective ones of the multiple fixing points, whereby to enable the arms of the bag to be placed into selected ones of multiple configurations.

2. An infant sleep bag as claimed in claim I, wherein each arm portion comprises multiple fixing means.

3. An infant sleep bag as claimed in claim 2, wherein respective ones of the multiple fixing means are arranged in spaced relation to one another on an arm portion.

4. Swaddling apparatus comprising: a main body portion comprising multiple fixing points configured to enable one of multiple swaddling positions to be selected; and arm portions arranged on either side of the main body, wherein respective arm portions include fixing means configured to engage with respective ones of the multiple fixing points.

5. Swaddling apparatus as claimed in claim 4, wherein the arm portions are in the form of a bolero or shrug which is attached to or integral with the rear of the main body at at least one portion of the rear of the main body.