CN117729867A - Modular bassinet/bedside sleeper - Google Patents

Abstract

A child accessory includes a frame and a receiving portion supported by the frame. In some example forms, the frame is adjustable relative to the support surface between a first, lower height and a second, higher height. In some example forms, the receiving portion is adjustable between a first, shallower depth and a second, deeper depth. In some example forms, the receiving portion further includes a bedside sleeper flap configured to open or close to laterally access the receiving portion. In some example forms, the accessory is reconfigurable between two or more configurations (such as, for example, a bassinet configuration, a bedside sleeper configuration, and a play yard configuration). In some example forms, the frame includes at least one modular frame member.

Description

Modular bassinet/bedside sleeper

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The present application claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application serial No. 63/189,783 filed on month 5 of 2021 and U.S. provisional patent application serial No. 63/240,601 filed on month 9 of 2021; and claims priority to design patent application serial No. 29/778,859 filed on month 4, 2021 as part of the filing and claims priority to design patent application serial No. 29/784,562 filed on month 5, 2021 as part of the filing, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of child accessories, and more particularly to child accessories that are convertible or adjustable for use in different configurations, including for example, use as a bassinet, bedside sleeper, and/or play yard.

Background

Child accessories such as bassinets, bedside sleepers, and/or play yards are often configured for particular uses and phases of child development. As children grow, such limited or single use accessories may no longer be useful, requiring parents to store or dispose of products that are not synthesized for long periods of time, and to purchase new products that are suitable for the child's developmental stage. This can lead to undesirable wastage, inconvenience and expense. Furthermore, limited or single purpose accessories may require parents to purchase and maintain multiple different accessories for different purposes, which also undesirably increases cost and space requirements.

The present disclosure is primarily directed to providing a child accessory that can be converted between different modes of use, used for different purposes, and/or adapted for different stages of child development.

Disclosure of Invention

In example embodiments, the present disclosure relates to child accessories that are convertible or adjustable for use in different configurations, including for example, use as bassinets, bedside sleepers, and/or play yards. In further examples, the present disclosure relates to child accessories that are convertible or adjustable for use in modes that are suitable for children at different stages of their development or children of different ages and/or sizes. In further examples, the present disclosure relates to child accessories having a modular construction with multiple parts or components having similar configurations and/or sharing the part configuration with other products to achieve efficiency and economy of product design, manufacture, and assembly.

In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a child accessory for supporting a child above a support surface. The child accessory includes a frame and a child-receiving portion. The child-receiving portion is preferably supported by the frame. The child accessory is also preferably reconfigurable between a bassinet configuration, a bedside sleeper configuration, and a play yard configuration.

Optionally, the child accessory is adjustable relative to the support surface between a first lowered height and a second higher height.

Optionally, the child-receiving portion is adjustable between a first, shallower depth and a second, deeper depth. In addition, the child-receiving portion may contact the support surface when the child-receiving portion is adjusted to the second greater depth.

Optionally, the child-receiving portion includes a bedside sleeper flap (flap) configured to open or close to allow the bedside sleeper to enter the child-receiving portion.

Optionally, the child accessory further comprises one or more bedside fixation straps for securing the child accessory adjacent to the bed, wherein the one or more bedside fixation straps comprise a first strap portion facilitating the first adjustment and a second strap portion facilitating the second adjustment. In addition, at least one of the one or more bedside fixation straps may include two distinct portions for making two separate adjustments and an L-shaped anchor.

Optionally, the child accessory further comprises at least one wheel assembly comprising a spring biased hinged flange and a wheel pivotally secured to the spring biased hinged flange.

In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a securing device for securing a fitting to a parent bed. The securing means comprises a first portion for making a first adjustment and a second portion for making a second adjustment separate from the first adjustment.

Optionally, the first portion comprises a first strap and an L-shaped bracket at a first end of the first strap.

Optionally, the second portion includes a second strap and a side release clip.

Alternatively, the first and second portions can be separated from each other.

In yet another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a child supporting furniture including a lower frame assembly having a fixed height and including at least one channel, and an upper frame assembly including at least one frame post. The at least one frame strut of the upper frame assembly is preferably slidably engaged in the at least one channel of the lower frame assembly. The upper frame assembly is preferably adjustable relative to the lower frame assembly between a first height and a second height.

Optionally, the child supporting furniture further comprises a child receiving unit detachably secured to the upper frame assembly. In addition, the child-receiving unit may be adjustable between a first depth and a second depth different from the first depth. Furthermore, the child-receiving unit may comprise at least one first engagement element and at least one second engagement element, wherein the child-receiving unit comprises a first depth when the at least one first engagement element is coupled to the at least one second engagement element and comprises a second depth when the at least one first engagement element is decoupled from the at least one second engagement element.

In yet another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a wheel assembly for a fitting. The wheel assembly includes an articulating outrigger flange coupled to the frame member of the fitting and at least one wheel coupled to the articulating outrigger flange.

Alternatively, the hinged outrigger flange may be spring biased in an oblique angularly offset orientation relative to the frame member.

Alternatively, at least one wheel may be a castor wheel pivotally mounted to an articulating outrigger flange.

Optionally, at least one wheel may include a releasable locking mechanism configured for user actuation to selectively allow or prevent rolling of the wheel.

These and other aspects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will be understood with reference to the drawings and detailed description herein, and will be realized by means of the various elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following brief description of the drawings and detailed description of exemplary embodiments are intended as an explanation of exemplary embodiments of the invention, and are not restrictive of the invention as claimed.

Drawings

Fig. 1A illustrates an example embodiment of a modular child accessory according to the present disclosure in a cradle configuration.

FIG. 1B illustrates an example embodiment of a modular child accessory according to the present disclosure in a play yard configuration.

Fig. 1C illustrates an example embodiment of a modular child accessory according to the present disclosure in a bedside sleeper (configuration).

Fig. 1D illustrates a frame assembly of the modular child accessory of fig. 1A-1C.

Fig. 2A illustrates an example embodiment of a bedside fixation strap according to the present disclosure.

Fig. 2B illustrates an example method of securing a bedside sleeper to a bed according to the present disclosure.

Fig. 2C shows a detailed view of a portion of the bedside securing strap of fig. 2A secured around a portion of a bedside sleeper frame.

Fig. 2D-2E illustrate detailed views of portions of a bedside securing strap according to other example embodiments of the present disclosure secured around a portion of a bedside sleeper frame.

Fig. 3A-3B illustrate an example method of adjusting the height of a child accessory according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 3C-3D illustrate detailed views of the height adjustment mechanism of the child accessory of fig. 3A-3B.

Fig. 4A-4C illustrate an example method of adjusting a depth of a child-receiving portion of a child accessory according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 5A-5C illustrate an example method of operating a receiving flap of a child-receiving portion of a child accessory according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 6A-6D illustrate detailed views of a hinge wheel outrigger assembly according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

Fig. 7 illustrates another example embodiment of a child accessory according to this disclosure.

Fig. 8A-8B illustrate yet another example embodiment of a child accessory according to the present disclosure.

Fig. 9 illustrates yet another example embodiment of a child accessory according to this disclosure.

Fig. 10 illustrates another example embodiment of a child accessory according to this disclosure.

Detailed Description

The present invention may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this disclosure. It is to be understood that this invention is not limited to the particular devices, methods, conditions or parameters described and/or shown herein, and that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments by way of example only and is not intended to be limiting of the claimed invention. Any and all patents and other publications identified in this specification are incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.

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

Referring now to the drawings, in which like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views, FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate a child accessory or furniture 100 according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, which child accessory or furniture 100 is adapted for different purposes or use patterns and/or different configurations of different stages of child development. For example, fig. 1A shows a child accessory 100 in a raised bassinet configuration. In the bassinet configuration, the depth of the child-receiving portion 90 (i.e., measured from top to bottom) is between about 10 inches and about 20 inches, or more preferably between about 12 inches and about 18 inches. Typically, the shallower depth of accommodation and lower sidewalls in the cradle configuration make it easier for parents and caregivers to move the child into and out of the accommodation.

Fig. 1B shows the child accessory 100 in a play yard configuration. In the play yard configuration, the child-receiving portion 90 is expanded or enlarged to provide a deeper reception than in the bassinet configuration by lowering the bottom panel of the child-receiving portion. In an example embodiment, the depth of the child-receiving portion 90 in the play yard (i.e., measured from top to bottom) is between about 20 inches and about 32 inches, or more preferably between about 24 inches and about 28 inches. The greater depth of the child-receiving portion reduces the risk of a child climbing or falling from the receiving portion 90 as the child develops and learns to crawl and stand. In an example embodiment, the distance between the bottom plate of the child-receiving portion 90 and the support surface (e.g., floor, etc.) in the play yard configuration may be as small as 0 inches such that the bottom plate of the play yard rests on or in contact with the underlying bottom plate or other support surface to provide a more stable and secure support for a child to learn to stand.

Fig. 1C shows the child accessory 100 in a bedside sleeper configuration. In the bedside sleeper configuration, the floor of the receiving portion 90 is preferably raised and the bedside flap 80 is lowered or removed. Preferably, the child accessory 100 is also provided with one or more bedside fixation straps 150 to secure the child accessory 100 adjacent and/or partially above, for example, the parent bed B. Typically, a first end of the strap 150 is secured to a portion of the child accessory 100 (preferably the frame), and the other end of the strap 150 is secured to the bed. In an example embodiment, the securing strap 150 includes an adjustment mechanism for tightening or shortening the securing strap to draw the child accessory closer to the bed and minimize any gap therebetween. Preferably, the gap between the child accessory 100 and the parent bed is less than about 1 inch, and more preferably no more than about 0.5 inch, to prevent the child or a portion of the child's body from falling or getting stuck between the bedside sleeper and the adult bed; and in further example embodiments, the bedside sleeper is maintained in direct contact against the adult bed without a gap therebetween. In a bedside sleeper configuration, the child accessory 100 provides a safe, isolated area for a child or infant to sleep, for example, in close proximity to a parent or caretaker without sharing the bed with the parent or caretaker. The bedside opening defined by removal of the bedside flap 80 also provides a parent or caretaker with quick and easy access to the child from the bed.

In general, the child accessory 100 includes a structural frame including an upper frame assembly 102, and a base frame assembly 104 configured to rest on a support surface (i.e., a floor or floor). The structural frame is adjustable relative to the support surface between a first lowered height or position and a second higher height or position. In the exemplary embodiment, lower frame assembly 104 has a fixed height and includes at least one channel for receiving and supporting upper frame assembly 102. The upper frame assembly 102 includes at least one frame post or frame support column for slidably engaging at least one channel of the lower frame assembly 104. Thus, the upper frame assembly 102 can be slidably moved or adjusted relative to the lower frame assembly 104 and/or the support surface. For example, in an example embodiment, the upper frame assembly is adjustable between a first lower height and a second higher height. In other example embodiments, the upper frame assembly 102 may be adjustable between three or more different predetermined heights.

Preferably, the child accessory 100 includes one or more wheels that are secured to the lower frame assembly 104, allowing the child accessory to be moved around a support surface with less effort. In an example embodiment, the child accessory 100 includes one or more hinge wheel assemblies 140. The articulating wheel assembly 140 generally includes a spring biased articulating flange and a wheel pivotally secured to the articulating flange. In the neutral state, the hinged flange is spring biased in an outwardly angled, angularly offset orientation relative to the lower frame assembly 104. The outwardly offset orientation provides greater stability to the child fitment and provides clearance for the reduced receiving portion 90. Further, the articulating wheel assembly 140 may be unlocked to pivot or articulate to a retracted position, such as to align with a frame element to which it is attached when in contact or in abutment with another object (e.g., the frame of a parent bed), so as to allow the bedside sleeper to be pulled against or closer to the adult bed than the fixed position caster assembly would otherwise allow.

The child accessory 100 generally further includes a child-receiving portion or unit 90 configured for receiving an infant or young child therein. In a typical example embodiment, the child-receiving portion 90 includes a soft goods liner including a floor or base portion and a plurality of peripheral walls. In an example embodiment, the top of the receiving portion is open (i.e., uncovered).

The child-receiving portion 90 can further include one or more engagement elements configured to increase and decrease the depth of the child-receiving portion. For example, the child-receiving portion 90 includes a first engagement element (e.g., a first side of the zipper closure, a button, a male portion of a snap fastener, etc.) disposed along the sidewall at least a distance from the bottom panel and a second engagement element (e.g., a second side of the zipper closure, a loop or slit, a female portion of a snap fastener, etc.) disposed along the perimeter of the bottom panel. The second engagement element is configured to detachably engage the first engagement element. In an example embodiment, the depth of the receiving portion 90 may be reduced by raising the bottom plate of the receiving portion 90 to the first engagement element and fastening the second engagement element to the first engagement element. Conversely, the depth of the receiving portion 90 may be increased by disengaging the second engagement element from the first engagement element and allowing the floor of the receiving portion to be lowered or lowered.

The child-receiving portion 90 may further include one or more displaceable panels or flaps configured to open and close (or separate and attach) to provide another point of access for a child or infant inside the child-receiving portion during use. For example, in a bedside sleeper configuration, it is preferable to access the child via one side of the receiving portion without having to cross the side walls, for example to pacify or feed the infant at night. In example embodiments, the height of the displaceable flap is between about 9 inches to about 16 inches, or more preferably between about 8 inches to about 12 inches.

The child accessory 100 may optionally include a canopy or cover (not shown) disposed over the child-receiving portion 90 and configured to cover at least a portion of the child-receiving portion. Optionally, the canopy may also include an operable light (e.g., a light string) embedded in or attached to the canopy to provide decorative and/or functional illumination over the child-receiving portion 90. Preferably, the lamp is battery powered, but may be configured for use with other power sources.

In an example embodiment, the child-receiving portion 90 is removably attached or secured to the upper frame assembly 102. In the exemplary embodiment, child-receiving portion or pod 90 includes a soft goods liner removably attached to and suspended from upper frame assembly 102. The soft goods liner is preferably formed from a fabric, sheet, or other flexible material (with or without a liner). The soft goods liner may include one or more portions formed from a mesh liner to provide better airflow and to allow visual observation of the child in the containment portion through the mesh liner material. For example, in the depicted embodiment, all four walls of the child-receiving unit 90 are entirely made of a mesh-like liner material.

Fig. 1D shows a structural frame of a modular child accessory 100 including a top frame assembly 102 and a base frame assembly 104. The top frame assembly 102 includes a pair of T-shaped height adjustment support posts 115, each of which includes a lateral grip portion 114 and a post portion 116 extending transversely from the grip portion. In the exemplary embodiment, height adjustment support members 115 are laterally spaced apart and connected by a U-shaped rear rail member 112 that is horizontally disposed and extends between grip portions 114 in a first direction. The height adjustment support post 115 is further connected between the gripping portions 114 in a second direction opposite the first direction by an assembly of a horizontally disposed L-shaped front rail member 118 and a removable front rail section 120. As shown in fig. 1D and 5A, the removable rail member 120 includes a frame coupler 86, the frame coupler 86 configured for releasable engagement with the frame coupler 88 of the corner rail 118.

The lower frame assembly 104 includes two base end portions connected by a central connecting portion. In the example embodiment, each of the base end portions includes an inverted U-shaped side frame member 122, front and rear L-shaped corner base members 124, a height adjustment support sleeve 128, and a hinge wheel assembly 140. Each of the side frame members 122 includes two vertical legs that are laterally spaced apart and connected by a lateral cross member extending between the upper ends of the vertical legs. Front and rear corner base members 124 are connected to the lower free ends of the upstanding legs of the inverted U-shaped side frame members 122. Furthermore, a height adjustment support sleeve 128 is connected to the lateral cross beam of the side frame member 122, the height adjustment support sleeve 122 preferably extending transversely from about a center point along the lateral cross beam and oriented substantially parallel to the upstanding legs of the side frame member.

According to an example embodiment, the height adjustment support sleeve 128 is hollow and is configured to receive and engage the upstanding portion 116 of the height adjustment support post 115. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the post portion 116 may be lowered or inserted into the support sleeve 128, wherein the support post 116 is slidably movable therein. The height adjustment support column 115 includes an operable locking or engagement mechanism that can be used to lock the position of the support column 115 at a plurality of predetermined height marks or points in the form of apertures 129 along the support sleeve 128. In the illustrated embodiment, as best shown in fig. 3C and 3D, the height adjustment support sleeve includes four predetermined height positions 129a-129D, wherein height position 129a is the lowest height and 129D is the highest height.

As shown in fig. 1D, the base end portions are connected by a central connection portion. In the example embodiment, the central connection portion includes front and rear lower connectors 126, wherein the front lower connectors 126 are secured between the front corner base members 124 and the rear lower connectors 126 are secured between the rear corner base members 124. In the example embodiment, the lower frame assembly 104 further includes one or more base rails 130, the one or more base rails 130 extending between the front corner base member and the rear corner base member 124 and/or between the front and rear base connectors 126. According to an example embodiment, the various components of the upper and lower frame assemblies 102, 104 described herein are coupled to one another by friction fit, snap-fit couplings, screws, bolts, and/or other fasteners or attachment devices.

Having described the details of the structure of the child accessory 100, details of its operation and features will now be described with respect to fig. 2A-6D. According to example embodiments of the present disclosure, the child accessory 100 includes one or more adjustable features, systems, and/or components to accommodate different uses and modes of use, thereby accommodating different stages of child development. In fact, example modes of adjustment and/or reconfiguration of accessory 100 include: releasably securing or unsecuring the accessory 100 to or from, for example, a parent bed or another piece of furniture (see fig. 2A-2E); increasing or decreasing the height of the receiving portion by raising or lowering the upper frame assembly 102 relative to the lower frame assembly or support surface (see fig. 3A-3B); the depth D of the accommodating portion 90 is increased or decreased by lowering or raising the bottom plate of the accommodating portion 90 relative to the upper edge thereof (see fig. 4A to 4C); opening (lowering) or closing (raising) the bedside sleeper flap 80 (see fig. 5A-5B); and/or lock or unlock one or more of the hinge wheel assemblies 140 (see fig. 6A-6D).

For example, FIGS. 2A-2E illustrate the manner in which one or more bedside fastening straps may be used to secure the child accessory 100 to, for example, one side of a parent bed B. As shown in fig. 2A, the strap 150 includes a first portion for securing the strap to, for example, a parent bed B and a second portion for securing the strap to the accessory 100. In the exemplary embodiment, a first portion of strap 150 includes a first bedstrap or belt 152 having a first end 153 and a second end 154. At a first end 153 thereof, the bedband 152 includes an anchor or latch member 155 secured thereto. As shown in fig. 1C, the anchor 155 is configured to hook or hook onto an edge or corner of a mattress. According to an exemplary embodiment, the anchor 155 is preferably L-shaped for use with both mattress/spring mattress and mattress/platform bed combinations. However, the anchor may include other suitable shapes, contours, and forms.

The second portion 150 of the securing strap includes a second frame strap or strap 156 having first and second ends (157, 158), a three-way buckle 162, and a side release buckle or clip including a male clip portion 166 and a female clip portion 164. At its first end 157, the second frame strap 156 features a loop 157. In the example embodiment, female clip portion 164 and three-way buckle 162 are secured to loop 157. Male clip portion 166 is disposed at a point along second strap 156 between loop 157 and second free end 158. In an example embodiment, male clip portion 166 is configured for releasable engagement with female clip portion 164. Further, the first portion of the securing strap 150 is secured to the second portion by threading the second end 154 of the first strap 152 through the three-way buckle 162.

In an example mode of use, such as, for example, in a bedside sleeper configuration, one or more (preferably two) securing straps 150 may be used to secure the child accessory 100 to one side of a parent bed. The placement of the strap 150 may vary depending on the configuration of the parental bed. For example, where the parental bed includes a mattress B' on top of a box spring b″, the securing strap 150 preferably passes between the mattress and the box spring (see fig. 1C). On the other hand, where the parental bed includes a mattress placed directly on top of a bed frame or foundation (foundation), the securing strap 150 preferably passes between the mattress B and the bed frame or foundation (see fig. 2B). According to an example mode of use, the first and second portions of the strap 150 may be connected together prior to use. Alternatively, the second portion (including male and female side release clip portions 164, 166; the three-slide buckle 162; and the frame strap 156) may be connected to the free end 154 of the bed strap 152 after the bed strap 152 has passed under the parent mattress. In either mode of use, the anchor 155 is preferably pulled securely against the side of the parental bed mattress opposite the child accessory 100.

Once the securing strap 150 passes under the parental mattress with the anchor 155 securely resting on one side of the parental mattress, the second portion of the securing strap 150 may be secured to the child accessory 100. In an example usage mode, the securing strap 150 is secured to the child accessory 100 by engaging the male side release clip 166 to the female side release clip 164 around at least some portion of the structural frame of the accessory 100 (see, e.g., fig. 2C). Preferably, the securing strap 150 is secured to an upstanding portion or corner base member 124 of the side frame 122 (see fig. 1D).

With the first portion 150 of the strap securely anchored to the parent bed and the second portion of the strap securely encircling a portion of the structural frame of the accessory 100, the accessory 100 can be pulled closer to the parent bed by shortening or tightening the strap by pulling on the end 154 of the bed strap 152 and/or the end 158 of the frame strap 156. In an example mode of use, pulling the end 154 of the bed strap in a first direction (e.g., in the direction of the adult bed B) provides a greater "coarse" adjustment of the overall length of the securing strap 150, while pulling the end 158 of the frame strap 156 in a second direction generally opposite the first direction (e.g., away from the adult bed B) provides a smaller or "finer" adjustment of the overall length, and thus provides a smaller or "finer" adjustment of the positioning of the bedside sleeper relative to the adult bed. Further, because the second portion of the securing strap is located away from the parent bed and is configured to be tightened by pulling in a direction away from the parent bed, the end 158 of the frame strap 156 is generally more accessible, making final adjustment easier without the need to move or lift the parent mattress. Thus, a first portion of the securing strap 150 (including the bed strap 152 and the anchor 155) may be initially manipulated or adjusted to make a large, quick adjustment to the overall length of the securing strap 150, and a second portion of the securing strap 150 (including the male and female side release clip portions 164, 166, the three-slide buckle 162, and the frame strap 156) may be subsequently manipulated or adjusted to make any final "fine" adjustment to the securing strap.

In other example embodiments, the securing strap 150 may include other means for securing the securing strap to the structural frame. For example, fig. 2D shows a flexible strap or harness 157 secured to the frame strap 156 at attachment point S' so as to create two free opposite ends. In the illustrated embodiment, the opposite free end of the harness 157' includes a hook and loop fastener or other reclosable fastener. In an example mode of use, both ends of the harness 157 may be looped around, for example, the side frame members 122 and secured to one another, forming a closed loop around the frame members. In another example embodiment, the securing strap 150 may include two separate straps 157 "and 158", with the two separate straps 157 "and 158" being separately secured to the frame strap 156 "about separate attachment points S", as shown in fig. 2E. At their free ends, the straps 157 "and 158" include mating reclosable fasteners for releasably engaging one another, such as, for example, hook and loop fasteners. In an example mode of use, the free ends of the straps 157 "and 158" may be looped around, for example, the side frame members 122 and secured to one another, thereby forming a closed loop around the frame members. Notably, the use of two separate straps to secure the side frame members 122 reduces the likelihood of the side frame members and the closed loop shifting during use.

Figures 3A-3D illustrate that the height of the upper frame assembly 102 and the child-receiving portion 90 may be raised (H ₁ ) And decrease (H) ₂ ) In the form of (a). In the example embodiment, the lower frame assembly 104 is configured to rest on a support surface and provide a stable base upon which to support other components of the child accessory 100, including the upper frame assembly 102 and the child-receiving portion 90. As described above, the lower frame assembly includes a pair of upstanding tubular height adjustment sleeves 128 secured to the base end portions (or more specifically, the side frame members 122). In an example embodiment, the height adjustment posts 115 of the upper frame assembly 102 are received in channels of the height adjustment sleeve 128. In addition, the height adjustment post 115 includes a system of internal components operable to engage and disengage a set of predetermined locking apertures 129a-129D disposed along the sides of the height adjustment sleeve 128, as shown in fig. 3C and 3D.

As shown in fig. 3C, the height adjustment post 115 includes a drive shaft 180, a first L-shaped locking finger 181, a second L-shaped locking finger 181", a locking spring 186, and a drive spring 187. The drive shaft 180 includes an elongated body extending from a top end to a bottom end. The drive shaft 180 also includes a head portion 176 at its top end having a recessed section 175. The transition between the head portion 176 and the recess portion 175 is sloped. A drive spring 187 is secured to the top end of the drive shaft 180 and biases the drive shaft 180 upwardly along its longitudinal axis (parallel to its axis of elongation) toward its top end. The first and second L-shaped locking fingers 181 'and 181 "are pivotally secured to the height adjustment post 115 at pivot points 185' and 185", respectively. The first and second locking fingers 181' and 181 "include first extensions 182' and 182", respectively, extending in a first direction, and second extensions 184' and 184", respectively, extending in a second direction substantially lateral to the first direction. The first extensions 182' and 182 "are pivotally connected to the bottom end of the drive shaft 180. The second extensions 184 'and 184 "are connected by a locking spring 186 secured therebetween that biases the ends 184' and 184" apart from each other. The first and second locking fingers 181' and 181 "further include locking projections 183' and 183", respectively, the locking projections 183' and 183 "being configured to retractably engage locking apertures 129a-129d provided along the height adjustment sleeve 128 during use.

In addition, the height adjustment post 115 further includes a user operable sliding actuator 171 disposed in the lateral grip portion 114. The sliding actuator 171 is slidably operable within the aperture or slot 170. The sliding actuator 171 further includes a base portion 173 having an angled forward surface configured to engage the angled surface of the drive axle head 176.

In an example usage mode, the height adjustment post 115 is operable between a height locked state and a height adjusted state. Generally, in the highly locked state, the locking projections 183' and 183 "extend outwardly and engage in either of the locking apertures 129, the interaction between the locking projections and the locking apertures preventing the height adjustment post 115 from moving relative to the height adjustment sleeve 128. In the height adjusted state, the locking projections 183' and 183 "retract and disengage from the locking aperture 129. The height adjustment post 115 may be moved up or down within the height adjustment sleeve channel without interference between the locking projection and the locking aperture.

According to an example usage mode, the height adjustment post 115 is switched between a height locked state and a height adjusted state by moving the slide actuator 171. More specifically, in a highly locked state (as shown in fig. 3C), the base portion 173 of the sliding actuator 171 is positioned over the head portion 176 of the drive shaft 180, thereby forcing the drive shaft 180 downward toward its bottom end. The lowered position of the drive shaft causes the second extensions 184', 184 "of the first and second fingers 181' and 181" to spread apart, thereby driving the protrusions 183', 183 "outwardly through the aperture 129.

To increase or decrease the height of the upper frame assembly 102 relative to the lower frame assembly 104, the height adjustment posts 115 are disengaged from the height adjustment sleeve 128 by sliding or moving the sliding actuator 171 upward such that the base portion 173 no longer interferes with the head portion 176 of the drive shaft 180. See fig. 3D. When the base portion 173 is moved away from the head portion 176 and slid into the recess portion 175 of the drive shaft 180, the drive shaft 180 is moved upward by the drive spring 180. Upward movement of the drive shaft causes the first finger 181' to rotate counterclockwise and the second finger 181 "to rotate clockwise about pivot pins 185' and 185", respectively, causing the projections 183' and 183 "to retract from the corresponding locking apertures. Once the sliding actuator 171 is free, the sliding spring 172 biases the sliding actuator 171 back to its neutral position (i.e., the position of the sliding actuator in the highly locked state). When the sliding actuator 171 moves back to its neutral position, interference between the inclined surface of the base portion 173 of the sliding actuator and the inclined surface of the head portion 176 causes the drive shaft 180 to transition back to its lower position, thereby causing the second extensions 184' and 184 "to re-deploy. When the height adjustment posts 115 are moved up or down, the protrusions 183' and 183 "again engage the next locking aperture 129 and thereby lock the upper frame assembly to a height corresponding to the newly engaged locking aperture.

Fig. 4A-4C illustrate the manner in which the depth D of the receiving portion 90 may be increased or decreased. According to an exemplary embodiment, the depth D of the receiving portion 90 may be adjusted by lowering or raising the floor or bottom 96 of the receiving portion 90 relative to its upper edge or opening. As shown in fig. 4A, the child-receiving portion 90 includes a top opening or rim 91, an upper portion 92, a lower portion 94, and a bottom panel or base 96. Between the upper portion 92 and the lower portion 94, the child-receiving portion 90 comprises a first upper engagement element 93, and between the lower portion 94 and the bottom plate 96, the child-receiving portion comprises a second lower engagement element 95. Both the first upper engagement element 93 and the second lower engagement element 95 are generally disposed about the peripheral or outer surface of the child-receiving portion 90. In general, the first and second engagement elements 93, 91 are configured for releasable engagement with one another and may include zippers, hook and loop type bands, paired button and hook/loop type elements, snap fasteners, and/or other suitable releasable engagement mechanisms. In the depicted embodiment, the first engagement element 93 and the second engagement element 95 are mating elements of a zipper closure. For example, as shown in fig. 4A-4C, the first engagement element 93 is a first side of a zipper closure spanning the perimeter between the upper and lower receiving portions 92, 94. Similarly, the second engagement element 95 is a second side of the zipper closure disposed about the periphery of the bottom panel 96 of the receiving portion 90.

As shown in fig. 4A-4C, the depth of the receiving portion 90 may be increased or decreased by engaging or disengaging the second zipper side 95 to or from the first zipper side 91. For example, as shown in fig. 4B, by raising the bottom plate of the accommodating portion 90 to the first zipper side 93 and fastening the second zipper side 95 to the first zipper side 93, the depth of the accommodating portion 90 can be reduced (D2). In contrast, as shown in fig. 4B, the depth of the accommodating portion 90 can be increased (D1) by disengaging the second zipper side 95 from the first zipper side 93 and allowing the bottom plate 96 of the accommodating portion 90 to descend or lower. Fig. 4C illustrates a typical transition of the receiving portion 90 between a bassinet configuration and a play yard configuration, wherein the first zipper portion 93 and the second zipper portion 95 are engaged with or disengaged from each other using a zipper slider 97.

In other example embodiments, the child-receiving portion 90 may include two or more mating engagement elements defining additional positions in which the bottom panel of the receiving portion may be locked or cinched. In other words, the child-receiving portion 90 may include additional mating engagement elements, so that the depth of the receiving portion 90 may be adjusted between three or more predetermined depths. In other example embodiments, the floor of the child-receiving portion 90 may be lowered until the floor 96 rests on a support surface (e.g., ground, floor, etc.).

Fig. 5A and 5B illustrate the manner in which the removable bedside flap or panel 80 may be lowered and raised to provide additional access points for a child or infant within the child-receiving portion during use. In particular, in a bedside sleeper configuration, it is preferable to access the child via one side of the receiving portion without having to cross the side wall.

In an example embodiment, the soft goods lining of the child-receiving portion 90 is removably secured to the upper frame assembly 102, or more specifically, the rear rail member 112, the corner rail member 118, and the removable front rail member 120. In an example embodiment, the soft goods lined bedside sleeper flap 80 portion is configured to specifically align with the removable front rail member 120 of the upper frame assembly 102. The removable rail member 120 includes a frame coupler 86, the frame coupler 86 configured for releasable engagement with the frame coupler 88 of the corner rail 118. In an example mode of use, the removable rail member 120 can be removed or isolated from the corner rail 118 by deflecting the fingers 84 of the frame coupler 86 away from the catches 85 of the frame coupler 88. With the fingers 84 deflected, the removable rail member 120 can be lifted out of engagement with the corner rail 118. In an example embodiment, the fabric 82 of the bedside sleeper flap 80 includes sufficient elasticity or stretch to lift the detachable rail member 120 out of engagement with the frame coupler 88. Subsequently, the bedside sleeper flap 80 may be lowered or removed. To close or restore the flap, the removable rail member 120 is re-engaged to the frame coupler 88, thereby re-engaging the finger 84 with the catch 85 of the frame coupler 88. In some example embodiments, the bedside sleeper flap 80 may also include a zipper or similar engagement element to secure the sides of the flap 80 to the remainder of the soft article lining of the child-receiving portion.

Fig. 6A-6D illustrate an articulating wheel assembly 140 mounted to the exterior side of a leg or other frame member of the fitting 100. In the exemplary embodiment, articulating wheel assembly 140 includes a lock and release actuator 146 that is configured for foot-operated engagement and release to lock and release the swivel and/or roll operation of the wheel. In the exemplary embodiment, articulating wheel assembly 140 includes an outwardly extending flange or outrigger structure that includes a first hinge portion 142 that is hingedly connected to a second hinge portion 144. In the exemplary embodiment, first hinge portion 142 is secured to corner base frame member 124. The second hinge portion 144 is hingedly connected to the first hinge portion 142 and is configured to pivot about axis a.

Positioning the articulating wheel assembly 140 from outside or outward of the frame provides additional stability and spacing for lowering the receiving portion 90 of the fitting 100. For example, if the articulating wheel assembly 140 is positioned below the frame of the child accessory 100, the receiving portion 90 may be prevented from lowering to a position adjacent the floor anywhere below the top of the articulating wheel assembly. In contrast, the external positioning of the casters 148 on the outrigger assembly allows the receiving portion of the fitting 100 to be lowered to or adjacent to a floor or other support structure, such as to a position resting on the bottom rail 130 of the lower frame assembly 104.

Further, as shown in fig. 6B, the wheels 148 and outrigger assemblies are angularly offset, for example, from the longitudinal axis of the frame element to which they are attached, at an oblique offset angle α of about 45 ° to improve stability. The outrigger or articulating wheel assembly 140 includes a spring-loaded hinge that is biased to maintain the assembly in an angularly offset orientation in its intermediate state; and allows the assembly to pivot or flex to a retracted position, such as alignment with a frame element to which the assembly is attached, when the accessory 100 is configured for use as a bedside sleeper, upon contact or abutment with another object such as a bed frame. By allowing the second hinge portion 144 and the wheels 148 to move inwardly when moved against a bed frame or other object, the articulating wheel assembly 140 maintains stability while allowing the accessory 100 to be placed close to or in close proximity to the object.

In the exemplary embodiment, wheels 148 are preferably casters pivotally mounted to the articulating outrigger flange. Additionally, the wheel 148 may further include a releasable locking mechanism 149, the releasable locking mechanism 149 configured for user actuation to selectively permit or prevent rolling of the wheel.

Fig. 7-10 illustrate a child accessory according to other example embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, fig. 7 shows a child accessory 200 having an upper frame assembly 102 and child-receiving portion 90 as described above, but including a different lower frame assembly 204. The lower frame assembly 204 includes a pair of base frame members 226 connected by a pair of cross bar members 222. The base frame member 226 includes a telescoping inner base frame member 224 slidably engaged therein. The child accessory 200 further includes a plurality of wheels 248 attached to the telescoping inner base frame member 224 at the front of the child accessory and wheels attached to the base frame member 226 at the rear of the child accessory. In addition, the child accessory 200 includes a pair of height adjustment sleeves 228, the height adjustment sleeves 228 extending transversely from the base frame member and configured to receive and slidably support the height adjustment posts 115 and the upper frame assembly (and corresponding child receiving portions) on the lower frame assembly 204. The telescoping base frame member allows the base to extend for added stability when used separately from other objects and retract when used in a co-sleeper mode to allow the accessory to move closer to and against another object, such as an adult bed.

Fig. 8A and 8B illustrate a child accessory 300 according to another example embodiment of the present disclosure. The child accessory 300 includes a lower frame assembly 304, the lower frame assembly 304 including two base end portions 302 connected by a central connecting portion 326. Each base end portion 302 includes an inverted U-shaped side frame 322, side inner frame 323, and lower corner frame member 324. In the depicted embodiment, the upstanding portions of the side frames 322 and lower corner frame members 324 are configured to slide over the side inner frames 323. For example, by sliding the side frames 322 up and down over the side inner frames 322, the inverted U-shaped side frames 323 may be adjusted between a first lower height and a second higher height relative to a support surface (i.e., floor or ground).

The child fitting 300 further includes a child-receiving portion 90 (as described above), the child-receiving portion 90 being secured to the side frame 322 at a side thereof. In addition, the child fitting 300 also includes an articulating wheel assembly 340 secured to the lower corner frame member 324. The outrigger or articulating wheel assembly 140 includes a spring-loaded hinge that is biased to maintain the assembly in an angularly offset orientation in its intermediate state; and when the accessory 300 is configured for use as a bedside sleeper, allows the assembly to pivot or flex to a retracted position, such as in alignment with a frame element to which the assembly is attached, upon contact or abutment with another object such as a bed frame.

In an example usage mode, the height of the child accessory 300 may be increased and decreased by telescoping the side frames 322 over the side inner frames 323. In addition, the child-receiving portion 90 may further include one or more engagement elements configured to increase (D1) and decrease (D2) the depth of the child-receiving portion as described above.

Fig. 9 illustrates a child accessory 400 according to another example embodiment of the present disclosure. The child fitting 400 includes a child-receiving portion 90, the child-receiving portion 90 being secured at its sides to an upper frame structure 402. The upper frame structure 402 is slidably engaged to a lower frame structure that includes a vertical portion 426 and a U-shaped base frame 422 disposed horizontally above a support surface. The child accessory 400 further includes a horizontal telescoping base frame member 424 slidably engaged with the lower frame structure 404. The horizontal telescoping frame members 424 may be lengthened or shortened as needed or desired. The child accessory 400 further includes a plurality of wheels 428 attached to the telescoping base frame member 424 at the front of the child accessory 400 and wheels attached to the base frame 422 at the rear of the child accessory.

In an example mode of use, the height of the child accessory 400 can be increased and decreased by telescoping the upright portion 416 of the upper frame structure 402 relative to the upright portion 426 of the lower frame structure 404. In addition, the child-receiving portion 90 may further include one or more engagement elements configured to increase and decrease the depth of the child-receiving portion as described above.

Fig. 10 illustrates a child accessory 500 according to another example embodiment of the present disclosure. The child fitting 500 includes a child-receiving portion 90, the child-receiving portion 90 being secured at its sides to an upper frame structure 502. The upstanding portion 516 of the upper frame structure 502 is slidably engaged to the lower frame structure 504, which includes an upstanding portion 526 and a U-shaped base frame 522 disposed horizontally above the support surface. The child accessory 500 further includes a horizontal telescoping base frame member 524 slidably engaged with the lower frame structure 504. The horizontal telescoping frame member 524 may be lengthened or shortened as needed or desired. The child accessory 500 further includes a plurality of wheels 528 attached to the telescoping mount frame member 524 at a front of the child accessory 500 and wheels attached to the mount frame 522 at a rear of the child accessory.

In an example mode of use, the height of the child accessory 500 can be increased and decreased by telescoping the upstanding portion 516 of the upper frame structure 502 relative to the upstanding portion 526 of the lower frame structure 504. In addition, the child-receiving portion 90 may further include one or more engagement elements configured to increase and decrease the depth of the child-receiving portion as described above.

While the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, additions and deletions are within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims (20)

1. A child accessory for supporting a child above a support surface, the child accessory comprising a frame and a child-receiving portion supported by the frame, wherein the child accessory is reconfigurable between a bassinet configuration, a bedside sleeper configuration, and a play yard configuration.

2. The children's accessory of claim 1, wherein the frame is adjustable relative to the support surface between a first lowered height and a second higher height.

3. The child accessory of claim 1, wherein the child-receiving portion is adjustable between a first shallower depth and a second deeper depth.

4. A child accessory according to claim 3, wherein the child-receiving portion is in contact with the support surface when the child-receiving portion is adjusted to the second greater depth.

5. The child accessory of claim 1, wherein the child-receiving portion includes a bedside sleeper flap configured to open or close to laterally access the child-receiving portion.

6. The child accessory of claim 1, further comprising one or more bedside securing straps for securing the child accessory adjacent to a bed, wherein the one or more bedside securing straps comprise a first strap portion that facilitates a first adjustment and a second strap portion that facilitates a second adjustment.

7. The children's accessory of claim 6, wherein at least one of the one or more bedside fixation straps includes two distinct portions for making two separate adjustments and an L-shaped anchor.

8. The child accessory of claim 1, further comprising at least one wheel assembly comprising a spring-biased hinged flange and a wheel pivotally secured to the spring-biased hinged flange.

9. A securing device for securing a fitting to a parent bed, the securing device comprising a first portion for making a first adjustment and a second portion for making a second adjustment, the second adjustment being separate from the first adjustment.

10. The fixation device of claim 9, wherein the first portion comprises a first strap and an L-shaped bracket at a first end of the first strap.

11. The fixation device of claim 9, wherein the second portion comprises a second strap and a side release clip.

12. The fixation device of claim 9, wherein the first and second portions are separable from each other.

13. A child supporting furniture comprising a lower frame assembly having a fixed height and comprising at least one channel, and an upper frame assembly comprising at least one frame post, wherein the at least one frame post of the upper frame assembly is slidably engaged in the at least one channel of the lower frame assembly, and wherein the upper frame assembly is adjustable relative to the lower frame assembly between a first height and a second height.

14. The child supporting furniture of claim 13, further comprising a child receiving unit removably secured to the upper frame assembly.

15. The child supporting furniture of claim 14, wherein the child receiving unit is adjustable between a first depth and a second depth different from the first depth.

16. The child supporting furniture of claim 15, wherein the child receiving unit comprises at least one first engagement element and at least one second engagement element, and wherein the child receiving unit comprises the first depth when the at least one first engagement element is coupled to the at least one second engagement element and the child receiving unit comprises the second depth when the at least one first engagement element is detached from the at least one second engagement element.

17. A wheel assembly for a fitting, the wheel assembly comprising an articulating outrigger flange coupled to a frame member of the fitting and at least one wheel coupled to the articulating outrigger flange.

18. The wheel assembly of claim 17, wherein the hinged outrigger flange is spring biased in an inclined, angularly offset orientation relative to the frame member.

19. The wheel assembly of claim 17, wherein the at least one wheel is a caster pivotally mounted to the hinged outrigger flange.

20. The wheel assembly of claim 17, wherein the at least one wheel includes a releasable locking mechanism configured for user actuation to selectively permit or prevent rolling of the wheel.