AU2017232120A1 - Attachment tether for a child safety seat - Google Patents

Abstract

A child safety seat system can include a seat base positioned along a vehicle seat and a child seat that can be coupled and decoupled from the base. The system can include a base anchor system that is movably coupled to the base and that holds the base in place along the vehicle seat. The base can include a lock-off device to prevent the base anchor system from being removed or decoupled from the base. The child safety seat system can also include a restraining tether system that includes a looped tether portion and a seat attachment strap. The seat attachment strap can be removably coupled to the vehicle and the looped tether portion can be removably coupled to the child seat. A restraint attachment tether can be coupled to the restraining tether system and movably coupled to the base anchor system to prevent the restraining tether system from being separated from the base. 9507327_1 (GHMatters) P106932.AU 120 135 185

Description

[0001] The present disclosure is generally directed to child safety seats, and more particularly to a child safety seat that includes a seat base and a tether, belt, or strap element that movably couples the seat base to a top tether restraint.

BACKGROUND [0002] Child safety seats are well known in the art. The typical child safety seat is designed to rest on the top surface of the seat base of a vehicle. The child safety seat is configured for the child to sit on the child safety seat or lie in the safety seat such that the position of the child is raised in the vehicle at a height above the top surface of the seat base of the vehicle. These child safety seats can include infant carrier systems. Typically, infant carrier systems include a base portion that is removably coupled to the vehicle seat and a carrier portion or child seat portion that can be removably coupled and decoupled from the base portion as needed.

[0003] The base portion can be removably coupled to the vehicle seat using either the vehicle seat belt or a lower anchor tether that is removably coupled to anchor devices positioned on (typically between the seat base and the seat back) or adjacent the vehicle seat. The carrier portion can be configured so that a child can lie within the carrier portion while the carrier portion is coupled to the base portion. A user can also decouple the carrier portion from the base portion with the child still in the carrier portion when the user wishes to remove the child from the vehicle. The base portion and carrier portion are typically positioned to face the child toward the rear of the vehicle.

[0004] In certain conventional child safety seats, a top tether restraint is also provided help prevent movement of the carrier portion of the child safety seat during rapid deceleration or a collision. Conventional top tether restraints can typically include one end that is coupled to the vehicle seat and another end that is coupled to the carrier portion of the child safety seat.

[0005] One object of the present disclosure is to improve the safety of top tether restraint by providing means for movably coupling the top tether restraint to a second area of the child safety seat to limit the ability of the top tether restraint being decoupled from the child safety

9507327_1 (GHMatters) P106932.AU

-22017232120 21 Sep 2017 seat. Another object of the present disclosure is to provide permanent yet movable coupling between the top tether restraint and the child safety seat to allow for improved adjustability and maneuverability of the top tether restraint while in use. Other objects and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0006] The detailed description is set forth with reference to the accompanying drawings. The use of the same reference numerals may indicate similar or identical items. Various embodiments may utilize elements and/or components other than those illustrated in the drawings, and some elements and/or components may not be present in various embodiments. Elements and/or components in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. Throughout this disclosure, depending on the context, singular and plural terminology may be used interchangeably.

[0007] Figure 1A is a side elevation view of a child safety seat system constructed in accordance with one example embodiment of the disclosure.

[0008] Figure IB is a partial front perspective view of the child safety seat system of Figure 1 A, in accordance with one example embodiment of the disclosure.

[0009] Figure 1C is a partial top perspective view of the child safety seat system of Figure

A, in accordance with one example embodiment of the disclosure.

[0010] Figure 2 is a plan view of the restraining tether system and base anchor system movably or adjustably coupled to one another by the tether for use in the child safety seat system of Figure 1A, in accordance with one example embodiment of the disclosure.

[0011] Figure 3 A is a top plan view of a base for the child safety seat system of Figure 1A, in accordance with one example embodiment of the disclosure.

[0012] Figure 3B is a partial side view of the base of Figure 3A, in accordance with one example embodiment of the disclosure.

[0013] Figure 3C is a partial top perspective view of the base of Figure 3A in accordance with one example embodiment of the disclosure.

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-32017232120 21 Sep 2017

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS [0014] Example embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which example embodiments are shown. The concepts disclosed herein may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the example embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the concepts to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like, but not necessarily the same or identical, elements throughout.

[0015] Certain relationships between dimensions of the child safety seat and between features of the child safety seat are described herein using the term “substantially.” As used herein, the term “substantially” indicates that each of the described dimensions or linear descriptions is not a strict boundary or parameter and does not exclude functionally similar variations therefrom. Unless context or the description indicates otherwise, the use of the term “substantially” in connection with a numerical parameter indicates that the numerical parameter includes variations that, using mathematical and industrial principles accepted in the art (e.g., rounding, measurement or other systematic errors, manufacturing tolerances, etc.), would not vary the least significant digit.

[0016] As used herein, the term “substantially parallel” indicates that the parallel relationship is not a strict relationship and does not exclude functionally similar variations therefrom. As used herein the term “substantially perpendicular” indicates that the perpendicular relationship between two or more elements of the child booster seat are not a strict relationship and does not exclude functionally similar variations therefrom.

[0017] It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first element could be termed a second element, and, similarly, a second element could be termed a first element, without departing from the scope of the present invention. As used herein, the term and/or includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0018] Figures 1A-1C are side and perspective views of one example of a child safety seat system 100 positioned on a vehicle seat, in accordance with one example embodiment of the

9507327_1 (GHMatters) P106932.AU

-42017232120 21 Sep 2017 disclosure. In one example embodiment, the child safety seat is an infant carrier system 105 that includes a base 115 and a child seat or carrier 110 that is removably coupled to the base 115 by one or more latching mechanisms on the corresponding base 115 and/or child seat 110. In other example embodiments, other forms of child safety seats, including, but not limited to, infant seats, convertible car seats, child car seats, and booster seat, may be substituted for the infant carrier system. For example, an upright child safety seat that is configured to be coupled to a base could also be incorporated into the concepts described herein. In the example infant carrier system 105, the base 115 can be removably coupled to the vehicle seat by positioning it along the vehicle seat base 170 and removably coupling the base 115 to the vehicle seat with a base anchor system 135, as discussed below. Alternatively, the base 115 can be coupled to the vehicle seat by threading the vehicle seat belt 180 into at least a portion of the base 115 and coupling the vehicle seat belt 180 to the vehicle belt buckle 185. The vehicle seat belt 180 can be a lap belt or a sash-style or 3-point seat belt. The base 115 can be constructed of molded plastic. In other example embodiments, other materials may be substituted for or included with the molded plastic to form the base 115. While one example form of the molded plastic base 115 is shown in Figure 1A and 3 A, alternatively, the base 115 can have many other forms within the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0019] The child seat 110 can be removably coupled to the base 115 through the use of the latching mechanisms when the child seat 110 is placed within the vehicle. In addition, in certain example embodiments, the child seat 110 can also be removably coupled to the vehicle seat by threading the vehicle seat belt 180 through one or more openings or tab members along a top side of the child seat 110 and coupling the vehicle seat belt 180 to the vehicle belt buckle 185.

[0020] The child seat 110 can also include a release mechanism (not shown) operably coupled to the latching mechanism(s) for adjusting at least a portion of the latching mechanism(s) on the child seat 110 to decouple the child seat 110 from the base 115. In one example, the release mechanism can include a pull handle operably coupled to one or more of the latching mechanisms. When the child seat 110 is removed from the vehicle, the child seat 110 can be decoupled from the base 115, which remains positioned along the vehicle seat base 170 and the child seat can 110 be separately carried out of the vehicle.

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-52017232120 21 Sep 2017 [0021] The child seat 110 can include a seat shell 120. The seat shell 120 can be constructed of molded plastic. In other example embodiments, other materials may be substituted for or included with the molded plastic to form the seat shell 120. While one example form of the molded plastic shell is shown in Figure 1 A, alternatively, the seat shell 120 can have many other forms within the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0022] Soft goods 125 (e.g., padding, fabric, leather, pleather, vinyl, plastic, etc.) may be provided over at least a portion of the seat shell 120. For example, the seat shell 120 may include a child receiving cavity positioned along a top side of the seat shell 120. Soft goods may be coupled or otherwise positioned along the child receiving cavity to increase the comfort of the seat shell for the child therein. The soft goods 125 may also be provided on other portions of the seat shell 120, such as portions of the outer edges of the seat shell 120. The child seat 110 can have a head end (i.e., the end the child’s head is most closely positioned near when placed within the child seat), an opposing foot end (i.e. the end the child’s feet are most closely positioned near when placed within the child seat) and first and second lateral sides that extend generally from the head end to the foot end.

[0023] The child seat 110 can also include a carrier handle 130 coupled to the child seat 110. In one example, the carrier handle 130 can be movably or adjustably coupled to the child seat 130 and can rotate with respect to the child seat 110. For example, the carrier handle 130 can include a first arm movably coupled to one lateral side of the child seat 110 and a second arm movably coupled to the opposing second lateral side of the child seat 110. The carrier handle 130 can rotate about an axis defined by the connection of the first arm to the first lateral side and the second arm to the second lateral side. In one example embodiment, the carrier handle 130 is rotatably between a carry position (for carrying the child seat 110) (as shown in Figure 1A) to a stored position, where the carrier handle 130 is rotated to be positioned behind the head end of the child seat 110.

[0024] The child seat 110 can also include a canopy 127 movably or adjustably coupled to the child seat 110. The canopy 127 can include multiple members that extend generally from the first lateral side to the second lateral side of the child seat 110 and can also include soft goods that cover and extend between those multiple members. The canopy 127 can rotate from a retracted position, where the multiple members of the canopy 127 or bunched up next to one another, to an extended position (as shown in Figure 1 A) to provide shading or cover

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-62017232120 21 Sep 2017 over a portion of the head end of the child seat 110. In certain example embodiments, the canopy 127 is rotatable about a horizontal axis (e.g., the same horizontal axis as the carrier handle 130 or a parallel horizontal axis) and can rotate with respect to the child seat and can provide shading or coverage about all or any portion of the child receiving cavity of the child seat 110.

[0025] As shown in Figure IB, the child seat 110 can also include one or more tether retaining means 122, 124 positioned along a back side of the child seat 110. In one example, the tether retaining means 122, 124 can include a first tether retaining member 122 and a second tether retaining member 124. In other example embodiments, the tether retaining means can be an opening, passageway, clip or other belt receiving and retaining mechanism positioned along the back side of the child seat 110. Each of the first tether retaining member 122 and the second tether retaining member 124 can include a fixed end coupled to the back side of the child seat 110 and a free end that extend up from the fixed end towards the head end of the child seat 110. A gap can be created between and least a portion of each tether retaining member 122, 124 and the back side of the child seat 110 between the fixed end and the free end that is configured to receive at least a portion of an restraining tether system 140. In certain example embodiments, each tether retaining member 122, 124 may be spring biased to bias the free end of the corresponding tether retaining member 122, 124 against the back side of the child seat 110 to better maintain the tether of the restraining tether system 140 between the corresponding tab retaining member 122 and the back side of the child seat 110.

[0026] The restraining tether system 140, also referred to as a top tether restraint, can include a top tether loop restraint 145 coupled to an adjustment means 149 and a top tether seat attachment strap 147 having a first end coupled to the adjustment means 149 and a distal second end that includes a latch mechanism 151 that is configured to be coupled to a latch positioned along a rear side 177 of the vehicle seat. In one example, the latch mechanism is the same or substantially similar to the latch mechanisms of the base anchor system 135 discussed below. The top tether loop restraint 145 can include a tether or belt formed into a loop shape. The top tether loop restraint can be constructed of a flexible tether or belt material, such as nylon or another material known to those of ordinary skill in the art. The top tether loop restraint 145 can be positioned around the child seat 110 and portions of the

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-72017232120 21 Sep 2017 top tether loop restraint 145 can be removably coupled or otherwise inserted into the tether retaining means 122, 124 provided along the back side of the child seat 110. For example, the top tether loop restraint 145 can be slidably inserted between the corresponding free ends of each of the first 122 and second 124 tether retaining members and the back side of the child seat 110 to be positioned between each tether retaining member 122, 124, and the child seat 110.

[0027] The top tether loop restraint 145 can be directly or indirectly coupled to the adjustment means. For example, an additional tether, or belt can have a first end attached to the adjustment means 149 and a second end coupled to the top tether loop restraint 145. In one example, the additional tether can be constructed of a flexible tether or belt material, such as nylon or another material known to those of ordinary skill in the art. The adjustment means 149 can be a buckle. The buckle 149 can include an adjustment mechanism for creating slack in the restraining tether system 140 or adjusting the tension along the restraining tether system 140. In one example, the adjustment mechanism is a push-button adjuster provided on the buckle and configured to switch from locking or holding the top tether seat attachment strap 147 in place to releasing the strap 147 to allow for creating slack in and/or increasing or decreasing the tension in the top tether seat attachment strap 147 between the buckle 149 and the attachment point along the seat or another portion of the vehicle. In one example, the top tether seat attachment strap 147 can be constructed of a flexible tether or belt material, such as nylon or another material known to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0028] The restraining tether system 140 can provide additional motion prevention for the infant carrier system 105 in the event of a collision or deceleration of the vehicle. In use, the top tether loop restraint 145 is positioned about a portion of the upper end of the child seat 110 and the top tether seat attachment strap 147 is removably coupled to an anchor or other mechanism provided, for example, along the rear side 177 of the vehicle seat or at another site in the vehicle. Tension is then created in the restraining tether system 140 by the user through use of the adjustment means 149 until the restraining tether system 140 is relatively tight.

[0029] The restraining tether system 140 can also include another tether or belt 150 that has a first end coupled to the restraining tether system 140 and a distal second end. In one example, the first end can be coupled to the restraining tether system 140 by sewing, heat

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-82017232120 21 Sep 2017 staking, ultrasonic welding, or any other suitable connection technique. The distal second end can be movably or adjustable coupled to the base anchor system 135 and/or the base 115 as discussed in greater detail below. The first end of the tether 150 can be coupled to the adjustment means 149, the top tether loop restraint 145 or the additional tether or belt positioned between the top tether loop restraint 145 and the adjustment means 149. The tether 150 can be configured to keep the restraining tether system 140 movably or adjustably coupled either directly or indirectly to the base 115 when in use and when not in use. In one example, the tether 150 can be constructed of a flexible tether or belt material, such as nylon or another material known to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0030] The child seat 110 can be configured to position a child in a rearward facing position (facing the rear of the vehicle) such that the foot end of the child seat 110 is positioned next to or abuts the front side of the vehicle seat back 175 and the head end of the child seat 110 extends towards the front of the vehicle. In certain example embodiments, the base 115 and/or the child seat 110 can further include a rotation means that allows the child seat 110 to rotate about a horizontal axis with respect to the base 110. This rotation can allow for an adjustment of the positioning of the child within the child seat 110 from generally a lying position to a more seated, upright position and vise-versa.

[0031] Figure 2 is a plan view of the upper seat restraint 140 and base anchor system 135 movably or adjustably coupled to one another by the tether 150 for use in the child safety seat system 100 of Figure 1A, in accordance with one example embodiment of the disclosure. Referring now to Figures 1A-2 and as discussed at least in part with respect to Figures 1A-C, The restraining tether system 140, can include a top tether loop restraint 145 coupled to an adjustment means 149 and a top tether seat attachment strap 147 having a first end coupled to the adjustment means 149 and a distal second end that includes a latch mechanism 151 that is configured to be coupled to a latch or anchor in a vehicle. The top tether loop restraint 145 can include a tether or belt formed into a loop (e.g., generally a circular or oval) shape.

[0032] The top tether loop restraint 145 can be directly or indirectly coupled to the adjustment means 149. For example, an additional tether, or belt can have a first end attached to the adjustment means 149 and a second end coupled to the top tether loop restraint 145. For example, the second end can include a loop (e.g, created by fastening the end of the second end to another portion of that additional tether) through which the top tether loop

9507327_1 (GHMatters) P106932.AU

-92017232120 21 Sep 2017 restraint 145 passes through. In this manner, the top tether loop restraint 145 is movably or adjustably coupled to the additional tether. In one example, the additional tether can be constructed of a flexible tether or belt material, such as nylon or another material known to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0033] The adjustment means 149 can be a buckle. The buckle 149 can include an adjustment mechanism for creating slack in the restraining tether system 140 or adjusting the tension along the restraining tether system 140. In one example, the adjustment mechanism is a push-button adjuster provided on the buckle and configured to switch from locking or holding the top tether seat attachment strap 147 in place to releasing the strap 147 to allow for creating slack in and/or increasing or decreasing the tension in the top tether seat attachment strap 147 between the buckle 149 and the attachment point along the seat or another portion of the vehicle.

[0034] The restraining tether system 140 can also include another tether or belt 150 that has a first end coupled to the restraining tether system 140 and a distal second end 330. In one example, the first end can be coupled (e.g., fixedly coupled) to the restraining tether system 140 by sewing, heat staking, ultrasonic welding, or any other suitable connection technique. The distal second end can be movably or adjustable coupled to the base anchor system 135 and/or the base 115 as discussed in greater detail below. The first end of the tether 150 can be coupled to the adjustment means 149, the top tether loop restraint 145 or the additional tether or belt positioned between the top tether loop restraint 145 and the adjustment means 149. The tether 150 can be configured to keep the restraining tether system 140 movably or adjustably coupled either directly or indirectly (e.g., via the base anchor system 135) to the base 115 when in use and when not in use.

[0035] For example, the second end of the tether 150 can be attached to another portion of the tether 150 to create a loop 330 along the second end of the tether 150. The second end of the tether 150 can be attached to the other portion of the tether by sewing, heat staking, ultrasonic welding or any other suitable connection techniques. In another example, the second end of the tether 150 can be coupled to an eyelet or other device that includes or defines a loop. The loop 330 be sized and shaped to define a loop passageway (see Figure 3B) that extends through the loop. The loop 330 can extend about the tether 205 and the tether 205 of the base anchor system 135 can extend through the loop passageway. The loop

9507327_1 (GHMatters) P106932.AU

-102017232120 21 Sep 2017 passageway can have a width or maximum opening measured as W2. The width or maximum opening W2 of the loop passageway is less than the width W1 of the first 215 and second 225 adjustment means and greater than the width of the tether 205. Accordingly, the loop 330 of the second end of the tether 150 can move along and be adjustable with respect to the tether 205 of the base anchor system 135. However, the tether 150 cannot be easily removed from the base anchor system 135 because each of the first 215 and second 225 adjustment means are not able to pass through the loop passageway defined by the loop 330 due to the difference in widths W1 and W2. Thus, the tether 150 is indirectly movably or adjustably coupled to the base by being movably or adjustably coupled to the base anchor system 135, as discussed below.

[0036] The base anchor system 135 can be used to removably couple the base 115 to the vehicle. In one example, the base anchor system 135 can include an elongated tether or belt 205 having a first end and a distal second end. The tether 205 can be constructed of a flexible tether or belt material, such as nylon or another material known to those of ordinary skill in the art. A first latching means (e.g, a first anchor latch 210) can be coupled to the first end of the tether 205 and a second latching means (e.g., a second anchor latch 220) can be coupled to the second end of the tether 205. In one example, the anchor latches 210, 220 can be coupled to the tether 205 by sewing, heat staking, ultrasonic welding, or any other suitable connection technique.

[0037] Each of the first and second anchor latches 210, 220 are adapted for connection to essentially U-shaped anchor members (not shown) that are secured to the vehicle chassis and are accessible, in certain situations, between the lower edge of the vehicle seat back 175 and the rear edge of the vehicle seat base 170. Typically the anchor members are welded to or otherwise permanently connected to the vehicle chassis. The first and second latching means 210, 220 can be latches or alternatively can be a hook-like arrangement or other latching mechanisms having other configurations known in the art.

[0038] The base anchor system 135 can also include a first adjustment means 215 and second adjustment means 225. In one example, the first adjustment means 215 can be positioned along the tether 205 near the first end of the tether 205 and the second adjustment means 225 can be positioned along the tether 205 near the second end of the tether 205. The tether 205 can be threaded through or coupled to each of the first adjustment means 215 and

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-11 2017232120 21 Sep 2017 the second adjustment means 225. In one example, each of the first adjustment means 215 and the second adjustment means 225 can be a buckle. Each of the first adjustment means 215 and the second adjustment means 225 can also include an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the tension and eliminating or creating slack along the tether 205. In one example, the adjustment mechanism is a push-button adjuster provided on each of the first adjustment means 215 and the second adjustment means 225 and configured to switch from locking or holding the tether 205 in place to releasing the tether 205 for adjustment of the tension in the tether 205. Each of the first adjustment means 215 and the second adjustment means 225 can have a first width W1 as measured in the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal axis X of the tether 205. The first width W1 is greater than the width of the tether 205.

[0039] Figures 3A-3C are top and side views of a base 115 for the child safety seat system 100 of Figure IA, in accordance with one example embodiment of the disclosure. Now referring to Figures 1A-3C, the example base 115 can include one or more seat receiving cavities 305, 310 for receiving therein and supporting a portion of the child seat 110. Each of the cavities 305, 310 may be sized and shaped to slidingly receiving therein a corresponding sized and shaped portion of the child seat 110. The base 115 can also include one or more latches or latching mechanisms (not shown) for removably coupling to the child seat 110.

[0040] The base 115 can also include a head end 301, an opposing foot end 302, a first lateral side 303 extending from the head end 301 to the foot end 302, and a second lateral side 304 extending from the head end 301 to the foot end 302. The base 115 can also include a first aperture 315 disposed through a bottom surface 306 of the base 115 and a second aperture 320 disposed through the bottom surface 306 of the base 115. In alternative embodiments, the first aperture 315 and the second aperture can be disposed through one or more side walls of the base 115. The first aperture 315 is sized and shaped to receive therethrough the first end of the base anchor system 135, including the first anchor latch 210 and the first adjustment means 215. The second aperture 320 is sized and shaped to receive therethrough the second end of the base anchor system 135, including the second anchor latch 220 and the second adjustment means 225. The tether 205 of the base anchor system 135 can extend within a cavity of the base 115 above the bottom surface 306 at least from the first aperture 315 to the second aperture 320. Each of the anchor latches 210, 220 can exit the

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-122017232120 21 Sep 2017 base 115 through their corresponding apertures 315, 320 and can then be coupled to the corresponding anchor members of the vehicle.

[0041] The base 115 can also include a lock-off latch arm 325 and a lock-off latch (not shown). The lock-off latch arm 325 is configured to be removably coupled to the lock-off latch. The lock-off latch arm 325 is coupled to the base 115 via a hinge or other rotating means and configured to rotate with respect to the base 115 about the axis Y from a locked position (in which the lock-off latch arm 325 engages and is coupled to the lock-off latch) to an unlocked position. In the locked position, a space or passageway can be defined between the lock-off latch arm 325 and a portion of the base 115 (e.g., a bottom side 306 of the base 115).

[0042] The base anchor system 135 can be movably or adjustably coupled to the base 115. For example, the tether 205 of the base anchor system 135 can extend between the lock-off latch arm 325 and the base when the lock-off latch arm 325 is in the locked position and coupled to the lock off latch. In the locked position, the lock-off latch arm 325 being coupled tot the lock off latch prevents the tether 205 from being removed from between the lock-off latch arm 325 and the bottom side 306 of the base 115. However, the tether 205 is able to move laterally along the longitudinal axis X of the tether 205 in passageway defined between the lock-off latch arm 325 and the bottom side 306 of the base 115. This movable or adjustable coupled allows the user to adjust the positions of the first and second ends of the tether 205 as needed to couple the anchor latches 210, 220 to the corresponding anchor members and to create slack or generate tension in the tether 205 using the first 215 and/or second 225 adjustment means.

[0043] In certain embodiments, the second end of the tether 150 can be movably or adjustably coupled to the base anchor system 135. For example, the second end of the tether 150 can be attached to another portion of the tether 150 to create a loop 330 along the second end of the tether 150. The second end of the tether 150 can be attached to the other portion of the tether by sewing, heat staking, ultrasonic welding or any other suitable connection techniques. In another example, the second end of the tether 150 can be coupled to an eyelet or other device that includes or defines a loop. The loop 330 be sized and shaped to define a loop passageway 335 that extends through the loop. The loop 330 can extend about the tether 205 and the tether 205 of the base anchor system 135 can extend through the loop passageway

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-132017232120 21 Sep 2017

335. The loop passageway 335 or any other loop passageway defined by an eyelet or other device defining a loop can have a width or maximum opening measured as W2. The width or maximum opening W2 of the loop passageway is less than the width W1 of the first 215 and second 225 adjustment means and greater than the width of the tether 205. Accordingly, loop 330 of the second end of the tether 150 can move along or be adjustable with respect to the tether 205 of the base anchor system 135. However, the tether 150 cannot be easily removed from the base anchor system 135 because each of the first 215 and second 225 adjustment means are not able to pass through the loop passageway 335 defined by the loop 330 along the second end of the tether 150. Thus, the tether 150 is indirectly movably or adjustably coupled to the base by being movably or adjustably coupled to the base anchor system 135, which is movably or adjustably coupled to the base 115 by way of the lock-off latch arm 325.

[0044] In another example embodiment, the base 115 can include a rod or other member. In certain example embodiments, the member can be an elongated member that extends along an axis parallel or substantially parallel to the axis Y at or near the foot end 302 of the base 115. The second end of the tether 150 can then be formed into a loop 330 or coupled to a loop as described above and movably or adjustably coupled to the rod or other member on the base 115. In this way, the tether 150 can be movably or adjustable coupled to the base.

[0045] Providing a tether 150 that is movably or adjustably coupled, either directly or indirectly, to the base 115 keeps the tether 150 and the remainder of the restraining tether system 140 with the base 115 at all times and more likely to be used (e.g., having the top tether loop restraint 145 removably coupled to the child seat 110 and the top tether seat attachment strap 147 coupled to one of the vehicle anchors) by the user when the child seat 110 is coupled to the base 115. Further, by providing a tether 150 that is movably or adjustably coupled, either to the base anchor system 135 or the base 115, the user is provided with additional maneuverability of the tether 150 due to the differing locations and layouts of vehicles for coupling the top tether seat attachment strap 147 to the rear portion of the vehicle seat or another location on the vehicle.

[0046] Although child safety seat features, functions, components, and parts have been described herein in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure, the scope of coverage of this patent is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this patent covers all

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- 142017232120 21 Sep 2017 embodiments of the teachings of the disclosure that fairly fall within the scope of permissible equivalents.

[0047] Conditional language, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain implementations could include, while other implementations do not include, certain features, elements, and/or operations. Thus, such conditional language generally is not intended to imply that features, elements, and/or operations are in any way required for one or more implementations or that one or more implementations necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements, and/or operations are included or are to be performed in any particular implementation.

[0048] Many modifications and other implementations of the disclosure set forth herein will be apparent having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the specific implementations disclosed and that modifications and other implementations are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

[0049] 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, i.e. 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.

[0050] It is to be understood that, if any prior art publication is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

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2017232120 21 Sep 2017

- 15THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

Claims (21)

2017232120 21 Sep 2017 - 15THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1. A seat restraint for securing a child safety seat system, the child safety seat system comprising a base configured to be positioned on a vehicle seat of a vehicle, a base anchor system movably coupled to the base and configured to secure the base to the vehicle, and a child seat configured to be removably coupled to the base, wherein the seat restraint comprises:

a restraining tether system comprising a first portion removably coupled to a vehicle anchor and a second portion removably coupled to the child safety seat; and a tether having a first end and a distal second end, the first end coupled to the restraining tether system and the second end movably coupled to the base anchor system.

2. The seat restraint of claim 1, wherein the child safety seat is an infant carrier seat.

3. The seat restraint of claim 1 or 2, wherein the restraining tether system comprises a first portion forming a loop, wherein the loop is configured to be removably coupled to the child safety seat.

4. The seat restraint of any one of claims 1 through 3, wherein the restraining tether system comprises a seat attachment strap comprising a first end and a distal second end, wherein the first end comprises a latch configured to be removably coupled to a vehicle anchor.

5. The seat restraint of any one of claims 1 through 4, wherein the child safety seat further comprises at least one tether retaining means positioned along a back side of the child seat, the tether retaining means configured to receive at least a portion of the restraining tether system.

6. The seat restraint of claim 5, wherein each of the at least one tether retaining means comprises a retaining member having a fixed end and a distal free end, the fixed end coupled to the back side of the child seat.

7. The seat restraint of claim 6, wherein the free end of the retaining member is spring biased to abut the back side of the child seat.

8. The seat restraint of any one of claims 1 through 6, wherein the base anchor system

9507327_1 (GHMatters) P106932.AU

2017232120 21 Sep 2017 comprises:

a tether comprising a first end and a distal second end;

a first latching means coupled to the first end and configured to be coupled to a first vehicle anchor;

a second latching means coupled to the second end and configured to be removably coupled to a second vehicle anchor; and a first adjusting means disposed between the first end and the second end and having a first width.

9. The seat restraint of claim 8, wherein the base anchor system further comprises a second adjusting means disposed between the first end and the first adjusting means, wherein the second adjusting means has the first width.

10. The seat restraint of claim 9, wherein each of the first adjusting means and the second adjusting means comprises a buckle.

11. The seat restraint of any one of claims 1 through 10, wherein the base further comprises:

a lock-off latch; and a lock-off latch arm rotatable with respect to the base and coupled to be removably coupled to the lock-off latch, wherein the lock-off latch arm rotates from an unlocked position to a locked position, wherein in the locked position, the lock-off latch arm couples to the lockoff latch and movably couples the base anchor system to the base.

12. The seat restraint of any one of claims 1 through 11, wherein the second end of the tether comprises a loop defining a tether passageway, wherein the base anchor system extends through the loop.

13. The seat restraint of claim 12, wherein the tether passageway has a maximum width and wherein the first width is greater than the maximum width.

14. The seat restraint of claim 12 or 13, wherein the second end of the tether is formed into the loop.

15. A child safety seat system comprising:

a base;

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2017232120 21 Sep 2017

- 17a base anchor system coupled to the base and configured to secure the base to a vehicle seat;

an infant carrier seat configured to be removably coupled to the base, the infant carrier seat comprising a top side defining a child receiving cavity and an opposing rear side;

a restraining tether system comprising:

a first end configured to be coupled to a vehicle anchor;

a second end comprising a loop-shaped tether configured to be removably coupled about at least a portion of the infant carrier seat;

a tether comprising:

a first end coupled to the restraining tether system; and a distal second end comprising a loop movably coupled to the base anchor system.

16. The child safety seat system of claim 15, wherein the base anchor system comprises: a tether comprising a first end and a distal second end;

a first latching means coupled to the first end;

a second latching means coupled to the second end;

a first adjusting means disposed between the first end and the second end and having a first width; and a second adjusting means disposed between the first end and the second end and having the first width.

17. The child safety seat system of claim 16, wherein the loop defines a loop passageway having a maximum width, wherein the tether of the base anchor system is disposed through the passageway and wherein the first width is greater than the maximum width.

18. The child safety seat system of claim 16 or 17, wherein the first adjusting means and the second adjusting means are not able to pass through the loop passageway.

19. The child safety seat system of any of claims 16 through 18, wherein the loop is disposed between the first adjusting means and the second adjusting means along the tether of the base anchor system.

20. The child safety seat system of any of claims 15 through 19, wherein the base further comprises:

9507327_1 (GHMatters) P106932.AU

2017232120

21 Sep 2017 a lock off latch arm coupled to the base and rotatable with respect to the base from an unlocked position to a locked position, wherein in the locked position, the base anchor system is movably coupled to the base.

9507327_1 (GHMatters) P106932.AU

2017232120 21 Sep 2017