AU2019379870A1 - A universal cover for use with child and baby carriers - Google Patents

Abstract

A universal cover for use with child and baby carriers, the universal cover including a pair of flexible, opaque central panels at least partially overlapping each other laterally and attached relative to one another at an upper edge and a lower edge, a pair of mesh side panels, one side panel attached to an outer side of each respective central panel, and a perimeter sleeve through which at least one length adjustable cord is provided allowing the perimeter of the cover to be selectively adjusted in size.

Description

A UNIVERSAL COVER FOR USE WITH CHILD AND BABY CARRIERS

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of child and baby carriers and more particularly to a universal cover that can be used with a wide variety of child and baby carriers.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Covers for child and baby carriers are very useful items if the baby or child wishes to sleep for example in a cot or to protect the baby of child from the elements such as may occur in a perambulator or car seat.

[0003] There are many types of cover available for child and baby carriers but each is generally specifically sized and shaped for each child and baby carrier, normally according to proprietary lines.

[0004] In instances where a more general cover is provided, it will normally only fit on a certain range of child and baby carriers, generally sold by each manufacturer and which are proprietary to that manufacturer.

[0005] It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0006] The present invention is directed to a universal cover for use with child and baby carriers, which may at least partially overcome at least one of the abovementioned disadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

[0007] With the foregoing in view, the present invention in one form, resides broadly in a universal cover for use with child and baby carriers, the universal cover including a pair of flexible, opaque central panels at least partially overlapping each other laterally and attached relative to one another at an upper edge and a lower edge, a pair of mesh side panels, one side panel attached to an outer side of each respective central panel, and a perimeter sleeve through which at least one length adjustable cord is provided allowing the perimeter of the cover to be selectively adjusted in size. [0008] The present invention resides in a universal cover for use with a baby and/or child carrier but which is usable with a variety of different types of child and baby carriers and child and baby carries of different sizes. The cover acts as a UV shade, light rain and wind cover, and insect barrier, as well as reducing visual stimuli for nap times.

[0009] In the context of the present application, child and baby carriers includes

perambulators or prams, strollers, car seats or capsules, cots, port-a-cot, travel cot or other devices into which a child or baby can be placed and where cover or protection may be desired, particularly cover or protection from the elements such as sun or wind for example such as may be encountered with an infant or child is being transported or will be potentially exposed to the conditions such as sun, wind or rain. The cover can also be configured to provide an insect barrier.

[0010] The universal cover of the present invention provides shade through the provision of the opaque central panels but the mesh side panels allow ventilation through the cover for the child or baby when located in the child or baby carrier relative to which the cover is used. The cover of the present invention can also be used to obscure view of the child if desired.

[0011] The cover of the present invention is preferably size adjustable in order to allow the cover to be fitted to relatively large child or baby carriers such as a cot, port-a-cot or travel cot for example but the same cover can also be reduced in size to allow use relative to a baby capsule for example.

[0012] The overlapping central panels allow a parent or carer to access the child or baby within the child or baby carrier without removing the cover from the child a baby carrier but the central panels can also be closed by overlapping them in order to provide cover.

[0013] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the cover will be made of one or more fabric panels attached relative to one another and will therefore be flexible and also relatively soft.

[0014] The universal cover of the present invention includes a pair of flexible, opaque central panels at least partially overlapping each other laterally and attached relative to one another at an upper edge and a lower edge. Each of the central panels will preferably be generally rectangular in shape, preferably including a substantially linear upper edge and an arcuate lower edge. The central panels may overlap each other completely which is preferred or alternatively, the central panels may only partially overlap one another. The central panels are preferably attached relative to one another, typically directly, via stitching or similar at both an upper edge and a lower edge. Preferably, the central panels are not attached to each other at the overlapping side edges. Preferably, each of the central panels is attached to a respective side panel at an outer edge of each of the central panels. Preferably, each of the central panels is attached over the length of the central panel to a respective side panel.

[0015] The fabric used for the opaque panels is preferably of high UV resistance or transmissivity preferably having a UPF of 50+. In this way, the opaque panels will preferably mitigate the damaging effects of UV rays by providing protection the cover whilst being used on a pram or similar, and car seat or similar, or in any travel apparatus that may allow baby/child exposed to the sun.

[0016] A temporary fixture or fastener assembly is typically provided on one, and preferably both of the central panels to allow the central panels to be secured at least temporarily relative to one another in at least the closed condition. Any type of fixture/fastener assembly could be used, however a magnetic fastener assembly is preferred as magnetic fastener assembly can be located between layers of fabric or otherwise obscured from view but still operate and magnetic fasteners can also be used to self align when closed.

[0017] Typically, a pair of fixture or fasteners portions are provided, one relative to the free edge of each of the central panels (an inner edge) and a corresponding fixture or fastener portion is preferably provided adjacent to the outer side edge of each of the central panels such that the central panels can be attached relative to one another securely.

[0018] As mentioned above, it is preferred that the central panels are formed from a fabric. Preferably, the fabric will be at least partially opaque (as the central panels will typically be overlapped, the opacity would generally be increased due to the overlapping).

[0019] The central panels are typically provided generally parallel to one another and overlying each other in an aligned manner such that the inner edge of one central panel lies adjacent to the outer edge of the other central panel when the central panels in the closed condition.

[0020] The universal cover of the present invention also includes a pair of mesh side panels, one side panel attached to an outer side of each respective central panel. Each of the side panels is preferably manufactured from a mesh fabric in order to allow ventilation through the cover and into the child or baby carrier. Another advantage of the provision of mesh fabric side panels is that the mesh fabric will allow limited visibility into the child or baby carrier relative to which the cover is used. Preferably, the side panels extend the full length of the respective central panels relative to which they are attached. The mesh side panels are typically attached at an inner side of the mesh side panel to a respective central panel, preferably over the length of the central panel, normally by stitching or similar.

[0021] Each of the side panels is preferably generally rectangular provided with a substantially linear upper edge and outer edge and an arcuate lower edge.

[0022] A clasp portion is preferably provided at an upper end, typically on an outer edge of each of the mesh panels allowing the pair of mesh panels to be attached relative to one another via engagement of the respective clasp portions with each other and/or with a portion of one of the mesh panels and/or at least one of the central panels if desired or required. This may be particularly useful for adapting the cover for use with smaller child or baby carriers. The clasp potions also allow the cover to be configured for use as a drape or cover when a mother wishes to breastfeed by attaching the claps portions together and then draping the cover about a mother’s shoulders.

[0023] The universal cover of the present invention also includes a perimeter sleeve through which at least one length adjustable cord is provided allowing the perimeter of the cover to be selectively adjusted in size.

[0024] Preferably, the perimeter sleeve is provided completely about the perimeter of the universal cover, preferably around the outer edges of the mesh side panels, the upper edge of at least one of the central panels and across the lower edge of at least one of the central panels.

[0025] The perimeter sleeve may be continuous or discontinuous. For example, a discontinuous perimeter sleeve may include one or more loops through which at least one cord can be passed.

[0026] Typically, one or more partial sleeve portions are provided around the perimeter of the cover with the partial sleeve portions together forming a perimeter sleeve.

[0027] Typically, a single length of length adjustable cord is provided but more than one length of cord could be used. The length adjustable cord may be of fixed length with a cord lock or similar allowing the cord to be shortened in the perimeter sleeve. Alternatively, the length adjustable cord may be resilient.

[0028] Preferably at least a pair of cord locks are provided relative to the length adjustable cord in order to adjust the overall size of the universal cover. Preferably, a cord lock is provided approximately centrally across an upper edge of the universal cover and a second cord lock is provided approximately centrally across the lower edge of the universal cover. Generally, each of the cord locks is typically provided relative to the perimeter sleeve and is preferably mounted relative to at least one, and typically both of the central panels. As mentioned above, where a single length of length adjustable cord is provided, both of the preferred cord locks will be located on the same cord allowing an operator to adjust the fit of the universal cover both the upper and lower edges.

[0029] The universal cover of the present invention will also preferably include at least one viewing flap, preferably located relative to at least one of the central panels to allow viewing through the cover when required. Typically, the viewing flap will be attached relative to at least one of the central panels and will be provided with a temporary fixture mechanism to allow the panel to be fixed in the closed condition. Again, although any temporary fixture mechanism may be used magnetic fixture mechanism is preferred.

[0030] Normally, the at least one viewing flap will be provided closer to the upper edge of the universal cover than to the lower edge.

[0031] The viewing flap may be provided relative to an upper central portion (in the closed condition) with an opening provided in the lower central portion (in the closed condition) but a transparent panel may be provided in the lower central portion. Typically, the opening or transparent panel will substantially align with the viewing flap when the central portions are in the closed condition. If a transparent panel is provided, the transparent panel may be a movable panel provided with a temporary fixture mechanism as well as this will allow a parent or carer to view the interior of the child or baby carrier by opening the viewing flap and then access the interior of the child or baby carrier if the transparent panel is moved to an open condition as well as the viewing flap.

[0032] A preferred form of the universal cover of the present invention also includes a pocket attached to at least one of the panels of the cover, typically on an inside or reverse side of the cover so that the universal cover can be folded or collapsed into the pocket for easy storage. The pocket will typically be provided on an underside of the inner central panel, typically adjacent to the preferred cord lock provided near the upper or lower edge of the cover as this will allow the cover to be collapsed into the pocket. A drawstring is preferably provided in a sleeve about the periphery of the pocket with a cord lock to be used to close the pocket to retain the cover. One of the cord locks on edge may loop through hidden elastic loop in the pocket to allow the pocket to be drawn tight. Of course, the pocket can be provided in any location relative to the cover but the provision of the pocket relative to an inner surface will allow the pocket to be obscured from view when the cover is mounted on a child or baby carrier.

[0033] In use, the universal cover of the present invention will typically be located over a baby or child carrier in the desired position, typically with the central panels overlying a central portion of the child or baby carrier and the mesh panels overlying the sides of the child or baby carrier and then the at least one cord in the perimeter sleeve can be tightened in order to secure the cover at least temporarily relative to the child the baby carrier. As mentioned above, the clasp portions may be used to attach the universal cover relative to a smaller child or baby carrier either before or after the at least one cord is tightened. Removal from the child or baby carrier is simply the reverse of fitting the universal cover. While the universal cover is in place relative to the child or baby carrier, a parent or carer can open the central portions by moving the central portions out of their overlapping configuration which will also allow access into the child or baby carrier and/or the parent or carer can look into the child or baby carrier by opening the preferred viewing flap.

[0034] Situations or apparatus in which the cover of the present invention may find use include:

• Pram/push chair/stroller/buggy/jogger;

• Capsule/bassinet/carry cot/baby carrier;

• Car seat (rearward and forward facing);

• Travel cot/port- a-cot

• Nursing/breastfeeding;

• High chair/feeding chair;

• Trolley/shopping cart; and/or

• Nappy change mat/change table cover.

[0035] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention. [0036] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0037] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows:

[0038] Figure 1 is a schematic plan view of a universal cover for use with child and baby carriers according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 2 is a photographic plan view of the cover illustrated in Figure 1 with the central panels closed.

[0040] Figure 3 is a photographic plan view of the cover illustrated in Figure 1 with the central panels open.

[0041] Figure 4 is an axonometric view of the cover of a preferred embodiment mounted to a three- wheeled perambulator with the cover closed.

[0042] Figure 5 is an axonometric view of the configuration illustrated in Figure 4 with the cover partially open.

[0043] Figure 6 is an axonometric view of the configuration illustrated in Figure 4 with the cover open.

[0044] Figure 7 is an axonometric view of the cover of a preferred embodiment mounted to an in-vehicle baby capsule (rear facing) with the cover closed.

[0045] Figure 8 is an axonometric view of the configuration illustrated in Figure 7 with the cover partially open.

[0046] Figure 9 is an axonometric view of the cover of a preferred embodiment mounted to a portable baby cot with the cover closed.

[0047] Figure 10 is an axonometric view of the cover of a preferred embodiment mounted to a child high chair.

[0048] Figure 11 is an axonometric view of the cover of a preferred embodiment folded into an incorporated pocket.

[0049] Figure 12 is another axonometric view of the cover of a preferred embodiment mounted to another child high chair.

[0050] Figure 13 is an axonometric view of the cover of a preferred embodiment used as a drape to cover a mother.

[0051] Figure 14 is an axonometric view of the cover of a preferred embodiment mounted to a baby capsule with the cover partially open.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0052] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, a universal cover 10 for use with child and baby carriers is provided.

[0053] The universal cover 10 illustrated in the Figures includes a pair of flexible, opaque central panels 11 at least partially overlapping each other laterally and attached relative to one another at an upper edge 12 and a lower edge 13, a pair of mesh side panels 14, one side panel attached to an outer side of each respective central panel 11, and a perimeter sleeve 15 through which at least one length adjustable cord 16 is provided allowing the perimeter of the cover 10 to be selectively adjusted in size.

[0054] As illustrated in Figures 4, 7, 9 and 13 in particular, the universal cover of the present invention provides shade through the provision of the opaque central panels 11 and the mesh side panels 14 allow ventilation through the cover for the child or baby when located on the child or baby carrier relative to which the cover 10 is used or when draped over the child or baby.

[0055] The cover 10 of the present invention is size adjustable in order to allow the cover to be fitted to relatively large child or baby carriers such as a port-a-cot for example as shown in Figure 9 but the same cover can also be reduced in size to allow use relative to a baby capsule for example as shown in Figure 7.

[0056] The overlapping central panels 11 allow a parent or carer to access the child or baby within the child or baby carrier without removing the cover 10 from the child a baby carrier by opening the central panels, moving them out of alignment (either one central panel as illustrated in Figures 5 or 8 or both central panels as illustrated in Figure 6) but the central panels 11 can also be closed by overlapping them in order to provide cover, as shown in Figures 4 and 9.

[0057] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the cover 10 will be made of one or more fabric panels attached relative to one another and will therefore be flexible and also relatively soft (this may limit the potential for the baby or child to injure themselves).

[0058] The universal cover 10 illustrated includes a pair of flexible, opaque central panels 11 at least partially overlapping each other laterally and attached relative to one another at an upper edge 12 and a lower edge 13. Each of the central panels 11 is generally rectangular in shape, including a substantially linear upper edge 12 and an arcuate lower edge 13. The central panels 11 overlap each other completely.

[0059] The central panels 11 are attached relative to one another, typically directly, via stitching or similar at both the upper edge 12 and lower edge 13 but are not attached to each other at the overlapping side edges. Preferably, each of the central panels 11 is attached to a respective side panel 14 at an outer edge 17 of each of the central panels 11, over the length of the central panel 11 and respective side panel 14.

[0060] A magnetic temporary fixture or fastener assembly portion 18 is typically provided on both of the central panels 11 to allow the central panels 11 to be secured at least temporarily relative to one another in at least the closed condition as a magnetic fastener can also be used to self align when closed.

[0061] As shown in Figures 1 and 9 in particular, a pair of a magnetic fastener assembly portions are provided on each central panel 11, one relative to the free edge of each of the central panels 11 (an inner edge) and a corresponding fixture or fastener portion 18 is provided adjacent to the outer side edge of each of the central panels 11 such that when the central panels 1 lare closed and aligned, the respective magnetic fastener assembly portions 18 align to attach the central panels relative to one another securely.

[0062] As mentioned above, it is preferred that the central panels are formed from a fabric. Preferably, the fabric is at least partially opaque (as the central panels 11 will typically be overlapped, the opacity would generally be increased due to the overlapping).

[0063] The central panels 11 are typically provided generally parallel to one another and overlying each other in an aligned manner such that the inner edge of one central panel 11 lies adjacent to the outer edge of the other central panel 11 when the central panels 11 in the closed condition.

[0064] Each of the side panels 14 is preferably manufactured from a mesh fabric in order to allow ventilation through the cover 10 and into the child or baby carrier. Another advantage of the provision of mesh fabric side panels 14 is that the mesh fabric will allow limited visibility into the child or baby carrier relative to which the cover 10 is used. Preferably, the side panels 14 extend the full length of the respective central panels 11 relative to which they are attached. As illustrated, the mesh side panels 14 are attached at an inner side of the mesh side panel 14 to a respective central panel 11, preferably over the length of the central panel 11, normally by stitching or similar.

[0065] Each of the side panels 14 is preferably generally rectangular provided with a substantially linear upper edge and outer edge and an arcuate lower edge as shown in Figure 1.

[0066] A clasp portion 19 is provided in the illustrated embodiment at an upper end, typically on an outer edge of each of the mesh panels 14 allowing the pair of mesh panels 14 to be attached relative to one another via engagement of the respective clasp portions 19 with each other and/or with a portion of one of the mesh panels 14 and/or at least one of the central panels 11 if desired or required. This may be particularly useful for adapting the cover for use with smaller child or baby carriers.

[0067] Preferably, the perimeter sleeve 15 is provided completely about the perimeter of the universal cover 10, preferably around the outer edges 17of the mesh side panels 14, the upper edge 12 of at least one of the central panels 11 and across the lower edge 13 of at least one of the central panels 11.

[0068] The perimeter sleeve 15 illustrated is continuous except for the exit points at the cords locks 20.

[0069] Typically, a single length of length adjustable cord (obscured) is provided but more than one length of cord could be used. The length adjustable cord may be of fixed length with a cord lock or similar allowing the cord to be shortened in the perimeter sleeve. Alternatively, the length adjustable cord may be resilient.

[0070] As shown, a pair of cord locks 20 are provided relative to the length adjustable cord in order to adjust the overall size of the periphery of the universal cover 10. Preferably, a cord lock 20 is provided approximately centrally across an upper edge 12 of the universal cover 10 and a second cord lock 20 is provided approximately centrally across the lower edge 13 of the universal cover 10. Generally, each of the cord locks 20 is provided relative to the perimeter sleeve 15 and is mounted relative to at least one, and typically both of the central panels 11. As mentioned above, where a single length of length adjustable cord is provided, both of the cord locks 20 are located on the same cord allowing an operator to adjust the fit of the universal cover 10 at both the upper edge 12and lower edge 13.

[0071] A preferred form of the universal cover 10 also includes a pocket 21 attached to at least one of the panels of the cover 10, as shown on the outside of the upper central panel of the cover 10 so that the universal cover 10 can be folded or collapsed into the pocket 21 for easy storage. The pocket 21 is provided adjacent to the preferred cord lock 20 provided near the upper edge of the cover 10 as this will allow the cover 10 to be collapsed into the pocket 21 when inverted. As shown in Figure 11, the cord is provided to be used to close the pocket 21 to retain the cover 10.

[0072] In use, the universal cover of the present invention will typically be located over a baby or child carrier in the desired position, typically with the central panels 11 overlying a central portion of the child or baby carrier and the mesh panels 14 overlying the sides of the child or baby carrier and then the at least one cord in the perimeter sleeve can be tightened in order to secure the cover 10 at least temporarily relative to the child or baby carrier. As mentioned above, the clasp portions 19 may be used to attach the universal cover 10 relative to a smaller child or baby carrier either before or after the at least one cord is tightened. Removal from the child or baby carrier is simply the reverse of fitting the universal cover. While the universal cover is in place relative to the child or baby carrier, a parent or carer can open the central portions 11 by moving the central portions 11 out of their overlapping configuration which will also allow access into the child or baby carrier.

[0073] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word‘comprising’ and its derivatives including‘comprises’ and‘comprise’ include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[0074] Reference throughout this specification to‘one embodiment’ or‘an embodiment’ means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases‘in one embodiment’ or‘in an embodiment’ in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[0075] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims (25)

1. A universal cover for use with child and baby carriers, the universal cover including:

a. a pair of flexible, opaque central panels at least partially overlapping each other laterally and attached relative to one another at an upper edge and a lower edge,

b. a pair of mesh side panels, one side panel attached to an outer side of each respective central panel, and

c. a perimeter sleeve through which at least one length adjustable cord is provided allowing the perimeter of the cover to be selectively adjusted in size.

2. The universal cover as claimed in claim 1, wherein the size of the cover is adjustable.

3. The universal cover as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the central panels overlap completely.

4. The universal cover as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the central panels, side panels, or both the central panels and side panels are rectangular in shape.

5. The universal cover as claimed in claim 4, wherein each of the panels include a substantially linear upper edge and an arcuate lower edge.

6. The universal cover as claimed in claim 5, wherein the central panels attach relative to one another at both the upper edge and the lower edge.

7. The universal cover as claimed in claim 5 or claim 6, wherein each of the panels further includes outer edges and the perimeter sleeve is provided around the outer edges of the mesh side panels, the upper edge of at least one of the central panels and across the lower edge of at least one of the central panels.

8. The universal cover as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the perimeter sleeve is provided about the perimeter of the universal cover.

9. The universal cover as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the central panels are provided parallel to one another and overlying each other in an aligned manner such that the inner edge of one central panel lies adjacent to the outer edge of the other central panel when the central panels in the closed condition.

10. The universal cover as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further including a temporary fixture or fastener assembly.

11. The universal cover as claimed in claim 10, wherein the fixture or fastener assembly is provided on at least one of the central panels to allow the central panels to be secured at least temporarily relative to one another in at least the closed condition.

12. The universal cover as claimed in claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the fixture or fastener assembly includes a pair of fixture or fasteners portions, one fixture or fastener portion provided relative to a free edge of each of the central panels and a corresponding fixture or fastener portion provide adjacent to the outer side edge of each of the central panels such that the central panels can be attached relative to one another securely.

13. The universal cover as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the side panels is manufactured from a mesh fabric in order to allow ventilation through the cover and into the child or baby carrier.

14. The universal cover as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the side panels extend the full length of the respective central panels relative to which they are attached.

15. The universal cover as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further including a clasp portion.

16. The universal cover as claimed in claim 15, wherein the clasp portion is provided at an upper end of the mesh panels.

17. The universal cover as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further including the at least one length adjustable cord.

18. The universal cover as claimed in claim 17, further including at least one cord lock for allowing the at least one length adjustable cord to be shortened in the perimeter sleeve.

19. The universal cover as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further including at least one viewing flap.

20. The universal cover as claimed in claim 19, wherein the at least one viewing flap is located relative to at least one of the central panels to allow viewing through the cover when required.

21. The universal cover as claimed in claim 20, wherein the viewing flap includes a temporary fixture mechanism to allow the panel to be fixed in the closed condition.

22. The universal cover as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further including pocket attached to at least one of the panels of the cover.

23. The universal cover as claimed in claim 22, wherein the pocket is attached to the at least one panel on an inside or reverse side of the cover.

24. The universal cover as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cover is made of one or more fabric panels attached relative to one another.

25. The universal cover as claimed in claim 24, wherein the central panels are made form a fabric that is of high UV resistance or transmissivity.