EP4637480A1 - Multi-function high chair - Google Patents
Multi-function high chairInfo
- Publication number
- EP4637480A1 EP4637480A1 EP23908213.4A EP23908213A EP4637480A1 EP 4637480 A1 EP4637480 A1 EP 4637480A1 EP 23908213 A EP23908213 A EP 23908213A EP 4637480 A1 EP4637480 A1 EP 4637480A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- seat
- frame
- high chair
- seat member
- function high
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Pending
Links
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47D—FURNITURE SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CHILDREN
- A47D1/00—Children's chairs
- A47D1/08—Children's chairs convertible to a rocking chair
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47D—FURNITURE SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CHILDREN
- A47D1/00—Children's chairs
- A47D1/002—Children's chairs adjustable
- A47D1/004—Children's chairs adjustable in height
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47D—FURNITURE SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CHILDREN
- A47D1/00—Children's chairs
- A47D1/008—Children's chairs with trays
- A47D1/0085—Children's chairs with trays removable
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47D—FURNITURE SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CHILDREN
- A47D1/00—Children's chairs
- A47D1/04—Children's chairs convertible from a high chair to a low one, e.g. by reversing
Definitions
- Exemplary embodiments pertain to the art of high chairs.
- High chairs provide a convenient and safe place for babies and children to eat food and occupy their time. Most high chairs are intended for children starting about 6 months old, when they are able to sit up unassisted and eat solid food. Infants less than about six months of age are typically supported in a reclined position or lying down because the child’s back has not yet developed the necessary strength to support the child in an upright position. For this reason, existing high chairs are not suitable for use by infants and small children.
- a multi -function high chair including a base having at least one leg assembly and a first seat member mounted to the base.
- the first seat member is configured to receive a second seat member mounted directly to the first seat member while the first seat member is mounted to the base.
- the first seat member further includes a horizontal seat portion, a first upright side wall arranged at a first side of the horizontal seat portion and a second upright side wall arranged at a second side of the horizontal seat portion.
- a seat back is connected to the horizontal seat portion and to the first upright side wall and the second upright side wall.
- the seat back extends vertically above the first upright side wall and the second upright side wall.
- the second seat member is connectable to the first upright side wall and the second upright side wall.
- each of the first upright side wall and the second upright side wall includes an armrest, the second seat member being connectable to the armrest.
- the first seat member is permanently affixed to the base.
- the first seat member is removably coupled to said base.
- the at least one leg assembly is adjustable to support the first seat member at a plurality of different heights.
- the at least one leg assembly further includes an outer tube having a plurality of openings, an inner tube slidable relative to the outer tube, and a latch plate movably mounted to the inner tube.
- the latch plate is selectively receivable within one of the plurality of openings.
- a height adjustment latch mechanism is operably coupled to the latch plate. The height adjustment latch mechanism is operable to control a configuration of the latch plate.
- the height adjustment latch mechanism further comprises an actuator operable to move the latch plate between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration.
- the height adjustment latch mechanism further comprises an actuator having a slot formed therein and the latch plate further comprises a pin. The pin being arranged within the slot.
- the first seat member is configurable to receive at least one attachment when the second seat member is not mounted to the first seat member.
- the at least one attachment includes a tray.
- the first seat member is a toddler seat and the second seat member is an infant seat.
- the second seat member further includes a seat frame and a base frame movably coupled to the seat frame. The second seat member is transformable between an extended configuration and a collapsed configuration. The second seat member is connectable to the first seat member in the collapsed configuration.
- a clearance is defined between the base frame and the seat frame. The clearance is maximized when the second seat member is in the extended configuration and the clearance is minimized when the base frame is in the collapsed configuration.
- the seat frame further includes two longitudinal sides, a first transverse member connecting a first end of the two longitudinal sides, and a second transverse member connecting a second, opposite end of the two longitudinal sides.
- each of the two longitudinal sides includes an upper portion and a lower portion.
- the lower portion is arranged at an angle relative to the upper portion.
- a contour of the lower portion of the two longitudinal sides and the second transverse member is generally complementary to a contour of a portion of the first seat member.
- the base frame is rotatable relative to the seat frame to transform the second seat member between the extended configuration and the collapsed configuration.
- the at least one handle further includes a protrusion having a channel and the locking mechanism further includes a pusher and a sliding gear generally arranged within the channel and an actuation mechanism operably coupled to the pusher.
- the at least one handle disposed about the seat frame and a latching mechanism associated with the at least one handle. The latching mechanism is operable to couple the second seat member to the first seat member.
- the latching mechanism further includes a latch pivotably mounted to the at least one handle.
- the latch has a first end configured to engage a portion of the first seat member in an engaged position.
- An actuation mechanism is operably coupled to the latch to selectively pivot the latch from the engaged position to a disengaged position.
- the latching mechanism further includes a biasing member operably coupled to the latch.
- the biasing member is operable to bias said latch into said engaged position.
- the at least one handle has a recess formed therein.
- the portion of the first seat member is receivable within the recess.
- the first end of said latch is configured to engage the portion of the first seat member receivable within said recess.
- a multi-function high chair assembly includes a base having at least one leg assembly, a first seat member positioned about the base, and a second seat member including a frame that is releasably engageable with at least one of the base and the first seat member.
- the frame is transformable between an extended configuration and a collapsed configuration.
- An actuation mechanism is disposed with the frame. The actuation mechanism is operable to both unlock the frame for movement between the extended configuration and the collapsed configuration and release the frame from engagement with at least one of the base and the first seat member.
- the actuation mechanism is operable to simultaneously unlock the frame and release the frame from engagement with at least one of the base and the first seat member.
- the first seat member further includes a horizontal seat portion, a first upright side wall arranged at a first side of the horizontal seat portion and a second upright side wall arranged at a second side of the horizontal seat portion, and a seat back connected to the horizontal seat portion and to the first upright side wall and the second upright side wall.
- the second seat member is releasably engageable with at least one of the first upright side wall and the second upright side wall.
- each of the first upright side wall and the second upright side wall includes an armrest.
- the frame of the second seat member is connectable to said armrest.
- the second seat member further includes a latching mechanism operable to affix the frame of the second seat member to the first seat member.
- the second seat member further includes at least one handle and the latching mechanism further includes a latch pivotably mounted to the at least one handle and movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position.
- a biasing member is operably coupled to the latch. The biasing member is operable to bias the latch into the engaged position.
- the latch is rotatable from the engaged position to the disengaged position via the actuation mechanism.
- the first seat member is configurable to receive at least one attachment when the second seat member is not mounted to the first seat member.
- the at least one attachment includes a tray.
- an infant seat for use with a toddler seat of a multi -function high chair includes a frame transformable between an extended configuration and a collapsed configuration.
- An infant seat support is positionable about said frame.
- the frame is directly connectable to the toddler seat of the multi -function high chair in the collapsed configuration.
- the frame further includes a seat frame and a base frame rotatably coupled to the seat frame to transform the frame between the extended configuration and the collapsed configuration.
- a clearance is defined between the base frame and the seat frame. The clearance is maximized when the frame is in the extended configuration and the clearance is minimized when the base frame is in the collapsed configuration.
- the latching mechanism is operable to couple the toddler seat of the multi -function high chair.
- the latching mechanism further includes a latch pivotably mounted to the at least one handle.
- the latch is configured to engage the toddler seat in an engaged position.
- An actuation mechanism is operably coupled to the latch to selectively pivot the latch from the engaged position to a disengaged position.
- the toddler seat is configurable to receive at least one attachment when the frame is not connected to the toddler seat.
- the at least one attachment is a tray.
- a contour of a portion of the frame is generally complementary to a contour of an adjacent portion of the toddler seat.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a multi -function high chair according to an embodiment
- FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a multi -function high chair having a seat member at a raised height according to an embodiment
- FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a multi -function high chair having a seat member at a lowered height according to an embodiment
- FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view a leg assembly including a height adjustment latch mechanism according to an embodiment
- FIG. 4A is a side view a height adjustment latch mechanism when a latch pin is in an extended configuration according to an embodiment
- FIG. 4B is a side view a height adjustment latch mechanism when a latch pin is in a retracted configuration according to an embodiment
- FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an infant seat in an extended configuration according to an embodiment
- FIG. 5B is side view of an infant seat in an extended configuration according to an embodiment
- FIG. 6A is a front perspective view of an infant seat in a collapsed configuration according to an embodiment
- FIG. 6B is a rear perspective view of an infant seat in a collapsed configuration according to an embodiment
- FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view of a locking mechanism of the infant seat in a locked configuration according to an embodiment
- FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of a locking mechanism of the infant seat in an unlocked configuration according to an embodiment
- FIG. 8A is a schematic diagram of a portion of a locking mechanism of the infant seat in a locked configuration according to an embodiment
- FIG. 8B is a schematic diagram of a portion of a locking mechanism of the infant seat in an unlocked configuration according to an embodiment
- FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view of an actuation mechanism of a locking mechanism of the infant seat in a locked configuration according to an embodiment
- FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view of an actuation mechanism of a locking mechanism of the infant seat in an unlocked configuration according to an embodiment
- FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a multi -function high chair having an infant seat mounted thereto according to an embodiment
- FIG. 10B is a side view of a multi-function high chair having an infant seat mounted thereto according to an embodiment
- FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a latching mechanism of the infant seat according to an embodiment.
- the high chair 20 includes a base 22 and a seat member 24 positioned about the base 22.
- the base 22 may include at least one leg assembly 30a or 30b for accommodating the high chair 20 on a support surface, such as a floor for example.
- the base 22 includes a plurality of leg assemblies, such as a first leg assembly 30a and a second leg assembly 30b spaced laterally apart from one another.
- the leg assemblies 30a, 30b may be substantially identical to one another, or alternatively, may have varying configurations.
- each leg assembly 30a, 30b includes a support member 32a, 32b, a front leg 34a, 34b, and a rear or back leg 36a, 36b.
- a distal end of the front leg 34a, 34b and the rear leg 36a, 36b of each leg assembly 30a, 30b is configured to contact the support surface to support the high chair 20 in an upright configuration.
- the front leg 34a, 34b and the rear leg 36a, 36b may both connect to and extend from a first end 38a, 38b of the support member 32a, 32b.
- one or both of the front leg 34a, 34b and the rear leg 36a, 36b are integrally formed with a portion of the support member 32a, 32b.
- the front leg 34a, 34b and the rear leg 36a, 36b may be integrally formed with one another and may be connectable to a portion of the support member 32a, 32b.
- the leg assembly 30a, 30b may be shaped similar to an inverted Y. Accordingly, the front leg 34a, 34b may extend in a first direction and at a first angle al relative to the support member 32a, 32b. Similarly, the rear leg 36a, 36b may extend in a second direction and at a second angle a2 relative to the support member 32a, 32b.
- the first angle al and the second angle a2 may be the same, or may be different. In an embodiment, both the first angle al and the second angle a2 are about 45 degrees such that front leg 34 is generally orthogonal to the rear leg 36.
- the front leg 34 and the rear leg 36 may be arranged at any suitable angle relative to the support member 32 to provide a stable base 22.
- One or more cross-pieces 40 may extend between and couple the plurality of leg assemblies 30a, 30b.
- at least one cross-piece 40 couples the support member 32a of the first leg assembly 30a to the support member 32b of the second leg assembly 30b.
- a cross-piece 40 may be configured to couple the front legs 34a, 34b of the first and second leg assemblies 30a, 30b and/or the rear legs 36a, 36b of the first and second leg assemblies 30a, 30b.
- each of the cross-pieces 40 of the base 22 are illustrated as having a substantially horizontal orientation, it should be understood that embodiments where a cross-piece 40 is arranged at an angle relative to a horizontal plane are also within the scope of the disclosure.
- the base 22 illustrated and described herein is intended as an example only and that a base 22 including one or more leg assemblies having any suitable configuration for supporting the seat member 24 at a position offset from a support surface is within the scope of the disclosure.
- the seat member 24 is formed with a generally horizontal seat portion 42, which is surrounded on two lateral sides by a first and second upright side wall 44, respectively.
- a seat back 46 is connected to the horizontal seat portion 42 and to the upright side walls 44. As shown, the seat back 46 may extend vertically above the first upright side wall and said second upright side wall 44 to form a raised seat back. However, embodiments where a height of the seat back 46 is about the same as the height of the upright side walls 44 are also contemplated herein.
- the seat back 46, horizontal seat portion 42, and upright side walls 44 are integrally formed as a single unitary component. However, in other embodiments, the seat back 46 may be formed as a separate component permanently or removably connected to the seat portion 42 and the upright side walls 44.
- the seat back 46 is pivotally mounted to the upright side walls 44 or the seat portion 42 such that the seat back 46 is rotatable about an axis between an upright position and a reclined position, or a plurality of reclined positions.
- the angle defined between the seat back 46 and the horizontal seat portion 42 is greater when the seat back 46 is in the reclined position than when the seat back 46 is in the upright position.
- the angle defined between the seat back 46 and the horizontal seat portion 42 when the seat back 46 is in the upright position is between about 75 degrees and 90 degrees, and the angle between the seat back 46 and the horizontal seat portion 42 when the seat back 46 is in the reclined position is greater than 90 degrees.
- embodiments where the seat back 46 is fixedly positioned relative to the seat portion 42 are also within the scope of the disclosure.
- the horizontal seat portion 42, upright side walls 44, and seat back 46 cooperate to define a generally hollow interior 48.
- the front 50 of the seat member 24 is open to accommodate the legs of a child when a child is seated within the hollow interior 48.
- the seat member 24 is a toddler seat intended for use by a toddler or an infant capable of supporting themselves in an upright position, such as a child typically six months of age or older. Accordingly, the seat member 24 is suitable to receive a child sitting in contact with the horizontal seat portion 42 with the child’ s back supported by the seat back 46.
- a peak or ridge may be formed at a central region of the horizontal seat portion 42.
- the peak is configured to function as a divider such that when a child is seated within the hollow interior 48, each of the child’s leg is naturally pushed to a respective side of the peak.
- the seat member 24 may additionally include a foot rest 54 vertically offset from a front edge 52 of the seat member 24.
- the position of the foot rest 54 may be fixed, or may be adjustable relative to the front edge 52 and the horizontal seat portion 42.
- the foot rest 54 includes a pair of support pieces 56 and a generally horizontally oriented foot rest member 58 connected in a general U- shape.
- the support pieces 56 may be receivable within a sleeve 60 formed at the exterior portion of the upright side walls 44.
- Each sleeve 60 may include a plurality of mounting slots (not shown), and the support pieces 56 may be coupled to the sleeve 60 via any of the plurality of mounting slots for selective positioning of the foot rest member 58 based on the size of the child supported in the seat member 24.
- the support pieces 56 may be coupled to the sleeve 60 via any of the plurality of mounting slots for selective positioning of the foot rest member 58 based on the size of the child supported in the seat member 24.
- a seat member 24 that do not include a foot rest 54, or embodiments where the foot rest 54 has another configuration are also contemplated herein.
- the seat member 24 is supported by an upper portion of the base 22. With reference again to FIGS. 1-2B, in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, an end 62a (62b not shown) of each leg assembly 30a, 30b is connected to a sidewall of the seat member 24.
- the seat member 24 may be permanently affixed to the base 22; however, embodiments where the seat member 24 is removably connected to the base 22 are also contemplated herein.
- the height of the base 22 may be adjustable between a plurality of positions (see FIGS. 2 A and 2B) to support the seat member 24 at a plurality of different heights relative to the support surface.
- a portion of each of the leg assemblies 30a, 30b, such as the support member 32a, 32b for example, is configured to telescope between the plurality of positions.
- the support member 32 of a leg assembly 30 includes a first outer tube 64 and a second inner tube 66.
- the outer tube 64 is arranged at the end 38 of the support member 32 and may be integrally formed with or connected to the front and rear legs 34, 36 of the leg assembly 30.
- the inner tube 66 may be directly or indirectly connected to the seat member 24.
- An outer diameter of the inner tube 66 may be less than or equal to the inner diameter of the outer tube 64 such that at least a portion of the inner tube 66 is slidably receivable within and therefore configured to telescope relative to the outer tube 64.
- the outer tube 64 may have a plurality of openings 68 spaced along a vertically oriented axis and a latch plate 70 protruding from the inner tube 66 is receivable within one of the plurality of openings 68 to lock the inner tube 66 at a desired position relative to the outer tube 64.
- the position of the latch plate 70, and therefore the position of the inner tube 66 relative of the outer tube 64 is controlled by a height adjustment latch mechanism 72.
- the height adjustment latch mechanism 72 includes a latch plate housing 74 arranged within the inner tube 66 and the latch plate 70 is movable relative to the latch plate housing 74.
- the latch plate 70 is receivable within a corresponding slot 76 formed in the latch plate housing 74 to control the sliding motion of the latch plate 70.
- the height adjustment latch mechanism 72 additionally includes an actuator 78 operably coupled to a release button 80 arranged at an exterior of the leg assembly 30, such as at the end 62 thereof for example. As shown, a portion 82 of the actuator 78 may be positioned in overlapping arrangement with the latch plate housing 74. Furthermore, the portion 82 of the actuator 78 may include an angled slot 84 and a pin 86 extending from a portion of the latch plate 70 is receivable within the angled slot 84.
- the height adjustment latch mechanism 72 is operable to move latch plate 70 relative to the inner tube 66 and the latch plate housing 74 between an extended or locked configuration (FIG. 4A) and a retracted or unlocked configuration (FIG. 4B).
- the actuator 78 is configured to translate axially within the inner tube 66 in response to application of a force Fl to the release button 80.
- the pin 86 extending from the latch plate 70 is configured to slide within the angled slot 84. This movement of the pin 86 simultaneously translates the latch plate 70 within the slot 76 of the latch plate housing 74, thereby causing the latch plate 70 to retract into the interior of the inner tube 66.
- the latch plate 70 is substantially flush with an exterior surface of the inner tube 66.
- a biasing member 88 may be coupled to the actuator 78. Accordingly, when the release button 80 is pushed, the translation of the actuator 78 may compress or oppose the biasing force of the biasing member 88. After the force is removed from the release button 80, the biasing member 88 operably coupled to the actuator 78 will bias the actuator axially upwardly, back to a neutral position, thereby causing the pin 86 to slide within the angled slot 84, and the latch plate 70 to protrude beyond the exterior surface of the inner tube 66.
- the release button 80 is pressed to retract the latch plate 70 to an unlocked configuration.
- the inner tube 66 may be axially translated relative to the outer tube 64.
- the force Fl is removed from the release button 80.
- the latch plate 70 will transform to the extended configuration in which the latch plate 70 is received within the aligned opening 68 formed in the outer tube 64, thereby locking or restricting relative movement between the inner tube 66 and the outer tube 64.
- the multi -function high chair 20 is suitable for use with a plurality of attachments, the attachments being interchangeable with one another.
- An example of such an attachment is shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B.
- the attachment includes a tray 100 removably mountable to a portion of the seat member 24, such as to the upright side walls 44 of the seat member 24 for example. When the tray 100 is mounted to the seat member 24, the tray 100 may restrict movement of a child from the hollow interior 48 of the seat member 24 via the front 50 thereof.
- the attachment is another seat member 110, also referred to herein as an infant seat.
- the seat member 24 mounted to the base 22 may be considered a “first seat member” and the attachment or infant seat 110 connectable to the seat member 24 may be considered a “second seat member.”
- the second seat member or infant seat 110 has a frame including a base frame 112 for accommodating the infant seat 110 on a support surface 114, such as a floor for example.
- the frame of the infant seat 110 additionally includes a seat frame 116 coupled to the base frame 112 and a fabric or cushioned seat support 118 (FIG. 5B) connected to the seat frame 116 to define a seating surface within which a baby or infant may be positioned.
- the second seat member or infant seat 110 as described herein may be suitable for use by a baby or infant who is not capable of supporting themselves in an upright position (such as less than six months of age for example) as well as by an infant who is able to support themselves in an upright position.
- the base frame 112 includes two generally longitudinal sides 120 and a transverse frame part 122 connected to a first end of the longitudinal sides 120.
- the longitudinal sides 120 of the base frame 112 are formed with a convex curvature such that the infant seat 110 is configured as a rocker operable to pivot or rock relative to the support surface 114.
- the longitudinal sides 120 is arranged in contact with the support surface 114 at any given time.
- the base frame 112 illustrated and described herein is generally rectangular in shape, embodiments where the base frame has another shape, such as an ellipsoid shape for example, are also contemplated herein.
- a connecting member 124 connected to or integrally formed with the second opposite end of each of the longitudinal sides 120 is coupled to the seat frame 116.
- the connecting members 124 are oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal sides 120 of the base frame 112.
- the connecting members 124 extend at an angle between about 75° and about 90° relative to the longitudinal sides 120 of the base frame 112.
- the connecting members 124 extend at another angle relative to the longitudinal sides 120 are also within the scope of the disclosure.
- the seat frame 116 may similarly include two parallel longitudinal sides 130, a first transverse member 132 connecting or integrally formed with a first end of the two longitudinal sides 130 and a second transverse member 134 connecting or integrally formed with a second, opposite end of the two longitudinal sides 130.
- both the base frame 112 and the seat frame 116 are shown as having a generally rectangular configuration, it should be understood that in other embodiments, a shape of the seat frame 116 may be different than the shape of the base frame 112.
- the longitudinal sides 130 have a non-planar configuration. As shown, the longitudinal sides 130 include a first, upper portion 136 and a second, lower portion 138 arranged at an angle relative to the first, upper portion 138. In an embodiment, the second lower portion 138 is arranged generally parallel to or at an angle less than 30 degrees relative to the connecting members 124 associated with the base frame 112. As will be described in more detail below, in an embodiment, the contour defined by the second lower portion 138 of the longitudinal sides 130 and the second transverse member 134 may be generally complementary to the contour of an adjacent portion of the toddler seat, such as the front 50 of the seat member 24 defined by the upright side walls 44 and the front edge 52 of the horizontal seat portion 42.
- the seat frame 116 may additionally include a support member 140 having a first end 142 and a second end 144 coupled to the two longitudinal sides 130, respectively.
- the support member 140 is rotatably mounted to the longitudinal sides 130 such that the support member 140 is rotatable relative to the longitudinal sides 130 about a pivot axis P.
- the support member 140 may be fixedly mounted to the longitudinal sides 130.
- the support member 140 may be arranged generally coplanar with the upper portion 136 of the longitudinal sides 130.
- the seat support 118 may be positionable about the frame, such as about the first transverse member 132 and the upper portion 136 of the longitudinal sides 130 of the seat frame 116 and the support member 140.
- the base frame 112 is movable, for example rotatable, relative to the seat frame 116 such that the infant seat 110 is transformable between a first, extended configuration (FIGS. 5A and 5B) and a second, collapsed configuration (FIGS. 6A and 6B).
- the first transverse member 132 of the seat frame 116 is spaced apart from the transverse frame part 122 of the base frame 112.
- the first transverse member 132 of the seat frame 116 is disposed a lesser distance from the transverse frame part 122 of the base frame 112.
- a clearance defined between the first transverse member 132 of the seat frame 116 and the transverse frame part 122 of the base frame 112 is maximized in the extended configuration and is minimized in the collapsed configuration.
- At least one handle 150 having an opening 151 is disposed about the seat frame 116.
- a handle 150 is arranged at each longitudinal side 130 of the seat frame 116.
- the handles 150 may be permanently or removably mounted to the longitudinal sides 130, or alternatively, may be integrally formed therewith.
- the handles 150 are shown as being positioned generally adjacent to the interface between the upper portion 136 and the lower portion 138 of each longitudinal side 130, embodiments where the handles 150 are arranged at another suitable location are also contemplated herein.
- each connecting member 124 may be rotatably mounted to the longitudinal sides 130 of the seat frame 116.
- each connecting member 124 is rotatably mounted to a respective handle 150.
- each handle 150 may include a protrusion 152, such as an annular protrusion for example, extending from a side 154 of the handle 150 towards an interior of the seat frame 116 for example.
- the protrusions 152 may cooperate to define the pivot axis P.
- the connecting member 124 may be connectable to, and in some embodiments may be receivable about, a portion of the protrusion 152.
- the protrusion 152 includes a generally hollow channel 156 and the connecting member 124 may be arranged at the distal end of the channel 156, thereby sealing the channel 156.
- each handle 150 includes a locking mechanism 158 operable to restrict rotation of the base frame 112 relative to the seat frame 116 about the pivot axis P.
- the locking mechanism 158 includes a pusher 160 and a sliding gear 162 generally arranged within the channel 156.
- An outer diameter of the pusher 160 and the sliding gear 162 may be substantially equal to or slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the channel 156.
- the sliding gear 162 is positioned generally between the connecting member 124 and a first end 164 of the pusher 160.
- a groove 166 may be formed at the connecting member 124, facing the protrusion 152. The groove 166 may be sized to receive the entirety of the sliding gear 162 therein.
- the sliding gear 162 is prevented from rotating about the pivot axis P when positioned within the channel 156.
- the outer diameter of the sliding gear 162 has at least one spline or keyway 170 formed therein and at least one tooth or key 172 protrudes from the inner diameter of the groove 166 formed in the connecting member 124.
- the at least one key 172 and keyway 170 are generally complementary to one another and are rotationally aligned with one another about the pivot axis P.
- at least one second key 174 complementary to the at least one keyway 170 may extend from the inner diameter of a portion of the channel 156.
- sliding gear 162 is illustrated and described herein as having the keyway 170 and the channel 156 and groove 166 are illustrated and described as having the keys 172, 174, it should be understood that embodiments where the sliding gear 162 has a key and the channel 156 and groove 166 have a keyway formed therein are also within the scope of the disclosure. Further, it should be understood that the pusher 160 may similarly have one or more key ways formed therein configured to cooperate with the at least one key 174 of the channel 156 to restrict rotation of the pusher 160 about the pivot axis P.
- a biasing member 176 such as a coil spring for example, extends between the sliding gear 162 and a portion of the connecting member 124, such as a surface of the groove 166 of the connecting member 124 for example.
- the biasing force of the biasing member 176 is configured to bias the sliding gear 162 toward the pusher 160, and into the channel 156 away from the groove 166 formed in the connecting member 124.
- the locking mechanism 158 includes an actuator 178 operable by a user to selectively apply an axial force to the pusher 160.
- the pusher 160 includes at least one sloped or ramped surface 180 and the actuator 178 is configured to apply a force to the pusher 160 via the ramped surface 180.
- the actuator 178 includes an actuation mechanism 182, such as a depressible portion or other input device for example, that is movably mounted to the handle 150.
- the actuation mechanism 182 may be generally arranged within the interior of the handle 150; however, a portion of the actuation mechanism 182 may be exposed at or protrude from the opening 151 of the handle 150.
- a first end 186 of an actuator strap 184 may be slidably connected to the actuation mechanism 182.
- a second, distal end 188 of the actuator strap 184 includes at least one ramped feature 190 (see FIGS. 7A and 7B) configured to cooperate with the at least one ramped surface 180 of the pusher 160.
- the locking mechanism 158 is configured to automatically lock the base frame 112 against rotation relative to the seat frame 116.
- the ramped feature 190 of the actuator 178 is axially aligned and therefore fully seated or engaged with the ramped surface(s) 180 of the pusher 160.
- the sliding gear 162 which is biased into contact with the first end 164 of the pusher 160 by the biasing member 176, is arranged partially within the channel 156 of the protrusion 152 and partially within the groove 166 of the connecting member 124.
- the at least one key 172 protruding from the recess 166 and the at least one second key 174 protruding from the channel 156 are both received within the at least one keyway 170 of the sliding gear 162.
- This engagement of the sliding gear 162 with both the channel 156 and the connecting member 124 not only restricts rotation of the connecting member 124 relative to the sliding gear 162, but also rotation of the sliding gear 162 relative to the channel 156.
- a user applies a force F2 to the actuation mechanism 182.
- the force applied by a user causes the actuation mechanism 182 to move relative to the handle 150.
- the movement of the actuation mechanism 182 exerts a force on the actuator strap 184.
- the force applied to the actuator strap 184 moves the second end 188 of the actuator strap 184 out of axial alignment with the pusher 160. As best shown in FIG.
- the one or more ramped features 190 of the actuator strap 184 slidably engage the at least one the ramped surface 180 of the pusher 160.
- This engagement applies an axial force to the pusher 160 opposing the biasing force of the biasing member 176, thereby causing the pusher 160 and the sliding gear 162 to translate along the pivot axis P.
- the sliding gear 162 In the fully actuated position, the sliding gear 162 is wholly received within the groove 166.
- the sliding gear 162 and the connecting member 124 (in unison) are freely rotatable about the pivot axis P relative to the protrusion 152. Accordingly, application of a force F2 to the actuation mechanism 182 unlocks the base frame 112 relative to the seat frame 116. Once unlocked, the base frame 112 is rotatable relative to the seat frame 116 to a desired position.
- the desired position such as a position associated with the collapsed configuration for example
- a user releases the actuation mechanism 182.
- the actuation mechanism will return to its original position, such as via gravity, thereby causing the actuator strap 184 to slide towards the pusher 160.
- the biasing force of the biasing member 176 will cause the sliding gear 162 to translate at least partially into the channel 156, and will cause the ramped surface 180 of the pusher 160 to translate into engagement with the ramped feature 190 at the second end 188 of the actuator strap 184.
- the second seat member or infant seat 110 is directly mountable to the first seat member or toddler seat 24 while the seat member 24 is mounted to the base 22.
- the infant seat 110 may be releasably engageable with the seat member 24 regardless of the position of the seat back 46.
- the infant seat 110 may be attached to the seat member 24 when the seat back 46 of the seat member 24 is in the upright position, a reclined position, or any position therebetween.
- the second seat member 110 is connectable to the toddler chair or seat member 24 of the high chair 20 when in the collapsed configuration.
- the base frame 112 is receivable within the interior 48 of the seat member 24 and at least a portion of the seat frame 116 is positionable in overlapping arrangement with an edge or upper surface of the seat member 24.
- the second transverse member 134 and the lower portions 138 of the longitudinal sides 130 of the seat frame 116 may be generally aligned with, and in some embodiments offset from, the front edge 52 of the seat member 24.
- a frame of the infant seat 110 such as the seat frame 116 for example, may be releasably engageable with the first seat member via the handle 150.
- the handles 150 associated with the seat frame 116 may be axially aligned with the upright side walls 44 of the seat member 24.
- a recess 192 is formed at a lower portion of the handle 150 and a portion of an upright side wall 44, such as a protrusion 210 forming an armrest located at or near an upper surface of the upright side wall 44 for example, is receivable therein.
- the infant seat 110 may include a latching mechanism 200 operable to rigidly affix the infant seat 110 to the seat member 24.
- the latching mechanism 200 includes a latch 202 pivotably mounted to the handle 150.
- a first end 204 of the latch 202 is contoured to include a hook shape or a catch connectable to a portion of the seat member 24, such as a lower surface of the protrusion 210 for example.
- the latching mechanism 200 is in a default or unactuated position, as shown in FIGS. 11 and FIG. 9A, the first end 204 of the latch 202 is in an engaged position and is arranged directly adjacent to, and in some embodiments extends into the recess 192 formed in the handle 150.
- a biasing member such as a torsion spring for example, may be operably coupled to the latch 202 and operable to bias the latch 202 into the engaged position.
- a second end 206 of the latch 202 may be operably coupled to an actuation mechanism, such as the actuation mechanism 182. Accordingly, when a force F2 is applied to the actuation mechanism 182 to actuate to latching mechanism 200, the engagement between the latch 202 and the actuation mechanism 182 causes the latch 202 to rotate about its axis X, against the biasing force of the biasing member. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, operation of the latching mechanism 200 causes the latch 202 to rotate in a first direction indicated by arrow D, away from the recess 192 to a disengaged position.
- the latching mechanism 200 is illustrated and described herein as being operated by the same actuation mechanism 182 as the locking mechanism 158, in other embodiments, a different actuation mechanism may be associated with the locking mechanism 158 and the latching mechanism 200, respectively.
- the second seat member or infant seat 110 may be installed about the toddler seat or seat member 24. Specifically, a portion of the upright side wall 44, such as the protrusion 210 for example, may be installed within the recess 192 formed in the handle 150. Once the infant seat 110 is properly positioned, the latching mechanism 200 can be deactivated by releasing the actuation mechanism 182.
- the biasing member Upon removal of the force from the actuation mechanism 182, the biasing member will rotate the latch 202 about its axis X, biasing the first end 204 of the latch 202 toward and into engagement with the portion of the seat member 24 arranged within the recess 192.
- This engagement between the portion of the seat member 24 arranged within the recess 192 and the first end 204 of the latch 202 restricts movement of the infant seat 110 relative to the seat member 24.
- a user simply applies a force to the actuation mechanism 182 of the latching mechanism 200, thereby causing the latch 202 to rotate out of engagement with the protrusion 210.
- operation of the actuation mechanism 182 when the infant seat 110 is in the collapsed configuration and affixed to the seat member 24 will simultaneously disengage the infant seat 110 from the toddler seat or seat member 24 and unlock the base frame 112 to allow rotation into an extended position an extended configuration. Because the same actuation mechanism 182 is associated with both the locking mechanism 158 and the latch 202 of the latching mechanism 200, both disengaging the infant seat 110 from the seat member 24 and unlocking the base frame 112 occur automatically in response to operation of the actuation mechanism 182.
- a user may operate or apply a force F2 to the actuation mechanism 182 when picking the infant seat 110 (in an extended configuration) off of the floor.
- a force F2 to the actuation mechanism 182 as the infant seat 110 is installed about the seat member 24
- contact with the seat member 24 will cause the freely rotatable base frame 112 to rotate relative to the seat frame 116, thereby transforming the infant seat 110 to the collapsed configuration.
- the base frame 112 Upon release of the actuation mechanism 182, the base frame 112 will be rotationally locked relative to the seat frame 116, and the latch 202 will be biased into engagement with the protrusion 210 of the seat member 24 via the biasing member.
- the infant seat 110 may be removed from a support surface and attached to the seat member 24 and/or may be separated from the seat member 24 and arranged on a support surface while an infant is positioned within the infant seat 110.
- a multi -function high chair 20 configured to receive an infant seat 110 as illustrated and described herein provides a user with a safe place to put a child in many scenarios around the home. Further, by allowing the infant seat 110 to connect to the high chair 20 without disassembly or modification, it is easier for a caregiver to use the infant seat 110 both as an attachment to the high chair 10 and as a separate device.
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- Chair Legs, Seat Parts, And Backrests (AREA)
- Seats For Vehicles (AREA)
Abstract
A multi -function high chair including a base having at least one leg assembly and a first seat member mounted to the base. The first seat member is configured to receive a second seat member mounted directly to the first seat member while the first seat member is mounted to the base.
Description
MULTI-FUNCTION HIGH CHAIR
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 63/435,049, filed on December 23, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0001] Exemplary embodiments pertain to the art of high chairs.
[0002] High chairs provide a convenient and safe place for babies and children to eat food and occupy their time. Most high chairs are intended for children starting about 6 months old, when they are able to sit up unassisted and eat solid food. Infants less than about six months of age are typically supported in a reclined position or lying down because the child’s back has not yet developed the necessary strength to support the child in an upright position. For this reason, existing high chairs are not suitable for use by infants and small children.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
[0003] According to an embodiment, a multi -function high chair including a base having at least one leg assembly and a first seat member mounted to the base. The first seat member is configured to receive a second seat member mounted directly to the first seat member while the first seat member is mounted to the base.
[0004] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first seat member further includes a horizontal seat portion, a first upright side wall arranged at a first side of the horizontal seat portion and a second upright side wall arranged at a second side of the horizontal seat portion. A seat back is connected to the horizontal seat portion and to the first upright side wall and the second upright side wall.
[0005] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat back extends vertically above the first upright side wall and the second upright side wall.
[0006] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the second seat member is connectable to the first upright side wall and the second upright side wall.
[0007] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments each of the first upright side wall and the second upright side wall includes an armrest, the second seat member being connectable to the armrest.
[0008] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first seat member is permanently affixed to the base.
[0009] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first seat member is removably coupled to said base.
[0010] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one leg assembly is adjustable to support the first seat member at a plurality of different heights.
[0011] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one leg assembly further includes an outer tube having a plurality of openings, an inner tube slidable relative to the outer tube, and a latch plate movably mounted to the inner tube. The latch plate is selectively receivable within one of the plurality of openings. A height adjustment latch mechanism is operably coupled to the latch plate. The height adjustment latch mechanism is operable to control a configuration of the latch plate.
[0012] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the height adjustment latch mechanism further comprises an actuator operable to move the latch plate between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration.
[0013] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the height adjustment latch mechanism further comprises an actuator having a slot formed therein and the latch plate further comprises a pin. The pin being arranged within the slot.
[0014] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first seat member is configurable to receive at least one attachment when the second seat member is not mounted to the first seat member.
[0015] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one attachment includes a tray.
[0016] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first seat member is a toddler seat and the second seat member is an infant seat.
[0017] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the second seat member further includes a seat frame and a base frame movably coupled to the seat frame. The second seat member is transformable between an extended configuration and a collapsed configuration. The second seat member is connectable to the first seat member in the collapsed configuration.
[0018] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a clearance is defined between the base frame and the seat frame. The clearance is maximized when the second seat member is in the extended configuration and the clearance is minimized when the base frame is in the collapsed configuration.
[0019] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat frame further includes two longitudinal sides, a first transverse member connecting a first end of the two longitudinal sides, and a second transverse member connecting a second, opposite end of the two longitudinal sides.
[0020] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments each of the two longitudinal sides includes an upper portion and a lower portion. The lower portion is arranged at an angle relative to the upper portion.
[0021] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a contour of the lower portion of the two longitudinal sides and the second transverse member is generally complementary to a contour of a portion of the first seat member.
[0022] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the base frame is rotatable relative to the seat frame to transform the second seat member between the extended configuration and the collapsed configuration.
[0023] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments including at least one handle coupled to the seat frame. The base frame is rotatably coupled to the at least one handle.
[0024] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments including a locking mechanism operable to restrict rotation of the base frame relative to the seat frame.
[0025] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one handle further includes a protrusion having a channel and the locking mechanism further includes a pusher and a sliding gear generally arranged within the channel and an actuation mechanism operably coupled to the pusher.
[0026] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments including at least one handle disposed about the seat frame and a latching mechanism associated with the at least one handle. The latching mechanism is operable to couple the second seat member to the first seat member.
[0027] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments including the latching mechanism further includes a latch pivotably mounted to the at least one handle. The latch has a first end configured to engage a portion of the first seat member in an engaged position. An actuation mechanism is operably coupled to the latch to selectively pivot the latch from the engaged position to a disengaged position.
[0028] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments including the latching mechanism further includes a biasing member operably coupled to the latch. The biasing member is operable to bias said latch into said engaged position.
[0029] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments including the at least one handle has a recess formed therein. The portion of the first seat member is receivable within the recess.
[0030] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first end of said latch is configured to engage the portion of the first seat member receivable within said recess.
[0031] According to an embodiment, a multi-function high chair assembly includes a base having at least one leg assembly, a first seat member positioned about the base, and a second seat member including a frame that is releasably engageable with at least one of the base and the first seat member. The frame is transformable between an extended configuration and a collapsed configuration. An actuation mechanism is disposed with the frame. The actuation mechanism is operable to both unlock the frame for movement between the extended configuration and the collapsed configuration and release the frame from engagement with at least one of the base and the first seat member.
[0032] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the actuation mechanism is operable to simultaneously unlock the frame and release the frame from engagement with at least one of the base and the first seat member.
[0033] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first seat member further includes a horizontal seat portion, a first upright side wall arranged at a first side of the horizontal seat portion and a second upright
side wall arranged at a second side of the horizontal seat portion, and a seat back connected to the horizontal seat portion and to the first upright side wall and the second upright side wall.
[0034] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the second seat member is releasably engageable with at least one of the first upright side wall and the second upright side wall.
[0035] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments each of the first upright side wall and the second upright side wall includes an armrest. The frame of the second seat member is connectable to said armrest.
[0036] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the second seat member further includes a latching mechanism operable to affix the frame of the second seat member to the first seat member.
[0037] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the second seat member further includes at least one handle and the latching mechanism further includes a latch pivotably mounted to the at least one handle and movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. A biasing member is operably coupled to the latch. The biasing member is operable to bias the latch into the engaged position.
[0038] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the latch is rotatable from the engaged position to the disengaged position via the actuation mechanism.
[0039] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first seat member is configurable to receive at least one attachment when the second seat member is not mounted to the first seat member.
[0040] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one attachment includes a tray.
[0041] According to an embodiment, an infant seat for use with a toddler seat of a multi -function high chair includes a frame transformable between an extended configuration and a collapsed configuration. An infant seat support is positionable about said frame. The frame is directly connectable to the toddler seat of the multi -function high chair in the collapsed configuration.
[0042] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the frame further includes a seat frame and a base frame rotatably coupled to the seat frame to transform the frame between the extended configuration and the collapsed configuration.
[0043] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a clearance is defined between the base frame and the seat frame. The clearance is maximized when the frame is in the extended configuration and the clearance is minimized when the base frame is in the collapsed configuration.
[0044] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments including a locking mechanism operable to restrict rotation of the base frame relative to the seat frame.
[0045] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments further including at least one handle disposed about the seat frame and a latching mechanism associated with the at least one handle. The latching mechanism is operable to couple the toddler seat of the multi -function high chair.
[0046] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the latching mechanism further includes a latch pivotably mounted to the at least one handle. The latch is configured to engage the toddler seat in an engaged position. An actuation mechanism is operably coupled to the latch to selectively pivot the latch from the engaged position to a disengaged position.
[0047] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the toddler seat is configurable to receive at least one attachment when the frame is not connected to the toddler seat.
[0048] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one attachment is a tray.
[0049] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a contour of a portion of the frame is generally complementary to a contour of an adjacent portion of the toddler seat.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0050] The following descriptions should not be considered limiting in any way. With reference to the accompanying drawings, like elements are numbered alike:
[0051] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a multi -function high chair according to an embodiment;
[0052] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a multi -function high chair having a seat member at a raised height according to an embodiment;
[0053] FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a multi -function high chair having a seat member at a lowered height according to an embodiment;
[0054] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view a leg assembly including a height adjustment latch mechanism according to an embodiment;
[0055] FIG. 4A is a side view a height adjustment latch mechanism when a latch pin is in an extended configuration according to an embodiment;
[0056] FIG. 4B is a side view a height adjustment latch mechanism when a latch pin is in a retracted configuration according to an embodiment;
[0057] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an infant seat in an extended configuration according to an embodiment;
[0058] FIG. 5B is side view of an infant seat in an extended configuration according to an embodiment;
[0059] FIG. 6A is a front perspective view of an infant seat in a collapsed configuration according to an embodiment;
[0060] FIG. 6B is a rear perspective view of an infant seat in a collapsed configuration according to an embodiment;
[0061] FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view of a locking mechanism of the infant seat in a locked configuration according to an embodiment;
[0062] FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of a locking mechanism of the infant seat in an unlocked configuration according to an embodiment;
[0063] FIG. 8A is a schematic diagram of a portion of a locking mechanism of the infant seat in a locked configuration according to an embodiment;
[0064] FIG. 8B is a schematic diagram of a portion of a locking mechanism of the infant seat in an unlocked configuration according to an embodiment;
[0065] FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view of an actuation mechanism of a locking mechanism of the infant seat in a locked configuration according to an embodiment;
[0066] FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view of an actuation mechanism of a locking mechanism of the infant seat in an unlocked configuration according to an embodiment;
[0067] FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a multi -function high chair having an infant seat mounted thereto according to an embodiment;
[0068] FIG. 10B is a side view of a multi-function high chair having an infant seat mounted thereto according to an embodiment; and
[0069] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a latching mechanism of the infant seat according to an embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0070] A detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and method are presented herein by way of exemplification and not limitation with reference to the Figures.
[0071] With reference to FIG. 1, an example of a muti-function high chair 20 is illustrated. As shown, the high chair 20 includes a base 22 and a seat member 24 positioned about the base 22. The base 22 may include at least one leg assembly 30a or 30b for accommodating the high chair 20 on a support surface, such as a floor for example. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the base 22 includes a plurality of leg assemblies, such as a first leg assembly 30a and a second leg assembly 30b spaced laterally apart from one another. In embodiments including a plurality of leg assemblies, the leg assemblies 30a, 30b may be substantially identical to one another, or alternatively, may have varying configurations. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, each leg assembly 30a, 30b includes a support member 32a, 32b, a front leg 34a, 34b, and a rear or back leg 36a, 36b. A distal end of the front leg 34a, 34b and the rear leg 36a, 36b of each leg assembly 30a, 30b is configured to contact the support surface to support the high chair 20 in an upright configuration. The front leg 34a, 34b and the rear leg 36a, 36b may both connect to and extend from a first end 38a, 38b of the support member 32a, 32b. In an embodiment, one or both of the front leg 34a, 34b and the rear leg 36a, 36b are integrally formed with a portion of the support member 32a, 32b. Alternatively, the front leg 34a, 34b and the rear leg 36a, 36b may be integrally formed with one another and may be connectable to a portion of the support member 32a, 32b.
[0072] As shown, the leg assembly 30a, 30b may be shaped similar to an inverted Y. Accordingly, the front leg 34a, 34b may extend in a first direction and at a first angle al relative to the support member 32a, 32b. Similarly, the rear leg 36a, 36b may extend in a second direction and at a second angle a2 relative to the support member 32a, 32b. The first angle al and the second angle a2 may be the same, or may be different. In an embodiment, both the first angle al and the second angle a2 are about 45 degrees such that front leg 34 is generally orthogonal to the rear leg 36. However, it should be understood that the front leg 34 and the rear leg 36 may be arranged at any suitable angle relative to the support member 32 to provide a stable base 22.
[0073] One or more cross-pieces 40 may extend between and couple the plurality of leg assemblies 30a, 30b. In an embodiment, at least one cross-piece 40 couples the support member 32a of the first leg assembly 30a to the support member 32b of the second leg assembly 30b. Alternatively, or in addition, a cross-piece 40 may be configured to couple the
front legs 34a, 34b of the first and second leg assemblies 30a, 30b and/or the rear legs 36a, 36b of the first and second leg assemblies 30a, 30b. Although each of the cross-pieces 40 of the base 22 are illustrated as having a substantially horizontal orientation, it should be understood that embodiments where a cross-piece 40 is arranged at an angle relative to a horizontal plane are also within the scope of the disclosure. Furthermore, it should be understood that the base 22 illustrated and described herein is intended as an example only and that a base 22 including one or more leg assemblies having any suitable configuration for supporting the seat member 24 at a position offset from a support surface is within the scope of the disclosure.
[0074] With continued reference to FIG. 1, the seat member 24 is formed with a generally horizontal seat portion 42, which is surrounded on two lateral sides by a first and second upright side wall 44, respectively. A seat back 46 is connected to the horizontal seat portion 42 and to the upright side walls 44. As shown, the seat back 46 may extend vertically above the first upright side wall and said second upright side wall 44 to form a raised seat back. However, embodiments where a height of the seat back 46 is about the same as the height of the upright side walls 44 are also contemplated herein. In an embodiment, the seat back 46, horizontal seat portion 42, and upright side walls 44 are integrally formed as a single unitary component. However, in other embodiments, the seat back 46 may be formed as a separate component permanently or removably connected to the seat portion 42 and the upright side walls 44.
[0075] In an embodiment, the seat back 46 is pivotally mounted to the upright side walls 44 or the seat portion 42 such that the seat back 46 is rotatable about an axis between an upright position and a reclined position, or a plurality of reclined positions. The angle defined between the seat back 46 and the horizontal seat portion 42 is greater when the seat back 46 is in the reclined position than when the seat back 46 is in the upright position. In an embodiment, the angle defined between the seat back 46 and the horizontal seat portion 42 when the seat back 46 is in the upright position is between about 75 degrees and 90 degrees, and the angle between the seat back 46 and the horizontal seat portion 42 when the seat back 46 is in the reclined position is greater than 90 degrees. However, embodiments where the seat back 46 is fixedly positioned relative to the seat portion 42 are also within the scope of the disclosure.
[0076] The horizontal seat portion 42, upright side walls 44, and seat back 46 cooperate to define a generally hollow interior 48. The front 50 of the seat member 24 is open to accommodate the legs of a child when a child is seated within the hollow interior 48. In an
embodiment, the seat member 24 is a toddler seat intended for use by a toddler or an infant capable of supporting themselves in an upright position, such as a child typically six months of age or older. Accordingly, the seat member 24 is suitable to receive a child sitting in contact with the horizontal seat portion 42 with the child’ s back supported by the seat back 46.
[0077] Although not shown, in an embodiment, a peak or ridge may be formed at a central region of the horizontal seat portion 42. The peak is configured to function as a divider such that when a child is seated within the hollow interior 48, each of the child’s leg is naturally pushed to a respective side of the peak.
[0078] As best shown in FIG. 10A, the seat member 24 may additionally include a foot rest 54 vertically offset from a front edge 52 of the seat member 24. The position of the foot rest 54 may be fixed, or may be adjustable relative to the front edge 52 and the horizontal seat portion 42. In an embodiment, the foot rest 54 includes a pair of support pieces 56 and a generally horizontally oriented foot rest member 58 connected in a general U- shape. The support pieces 56 may be receivable within a sleeve 60 formed at the exterior portion of the upright side walls 44. Each sleeve 60 may include a plurality of mounting slots (not shown), and the support pieces 56 may be coupled to the sleeve 60 via any of the plurality of mounting slots for selective positioning of the foot rest member 58 based on the size of the child supported in the seat member 24. However, it should be understood that embodiments of a seat member 24 that do not include a foot rest 54, or embodiments where the foot rest 54 has another configuration are also contemplated herein.
[0079] The seat member 24 is supported by an upper portion of the base 22. With reference again to FIGS. 1-2B, in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, an end 62a (62b not shown) of each leg assembly 30a, 30b is connected to a sidewall of the seat member 24. The seat member 24 may be permanently affixed to the base 22; however, embodiments where the seat member 24 is removably connected to the base 22 are also contemplated herein.
[0080] The height of the base 22 may be adjustable between a plurality of positions (see FIGS. 2 A and 2B) to support the seat member 24 at a plurality of different heights relative to the support surface. In an embodiment, a portion of each of the leg assemblies 30a, 30b, such as the support member 32a, 32b for example, is configured to telescope between the plurality of positions. With reference now to FIGS. 3-4B, in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the support member 32 of a leg assembly 30 includes a first outer tube 64 and a second inner tube 66. In an embodiment, the outer tube 64 is arranged at the end 38 of the
support member 32 and may be integrally formed with or connected to the front and rear legs 34, 36 of the leg assembly 30. The inner tube 66 may be directly or indirectly connected to the seat member 24. An outer diameter of the inner tube 66 may be less than or equal to the inner diameter of the outer tube 64 such that at least a portion of the inner tube 66 is slidably receivable within and therefore configured to telescope relative to the outer tube 64.
[0081] The outer tube 64 may have a plurality of openings 68 spaced along a vertically oriented axis and a latch plate 70 protruding from the inner tube 66 is receivable within one of the plurality of openings 68 to lock the inner tube 66 at a desired position relative to the outer tube 64. In an embodiment, the position of the latch plate 70, and therefore the position of the inner tube 66 relative of the outer tube 64, is controlled by a height adjustment latch mechanism 72. The height adjustment latch mechanism 72 includes a latch plate housing 74 arranged within the inner tube 66 and the latch plate 70 is movable relative to the latch plate housing 74. In an embodiment, the latch plate 70 is receivable within a corresponding slot 76 formed in the latch plate housing 74 to control the sliding motion of the latch plate 70.
[0082] In an embodiment, the height adjustment latch mechanism 72 additionally includes an actuator 78 operably coupled to a release button 80 arranged at an exterior of the leg assembly 30, such as at the end 62 thereof for example. As shown, a portion 82 of the actuator 78 may be positioned in overlapping arrangement with the latch plate housing 74. Furthermore, the portion 82 of the actuator 78 may include an angled slot 84 and a pin 86 extending from a portion of the latch plate 70 is receivable within the angled slot 84.
[0083] The height adjustment latch mechanism 72 is operable to move latch plate 70 relative to the inner tube 66 and the latch plate housing 74 between an extended or locked configuration (FIG. 4A) and a retracted or unlocked configuration (FIG. 4B). In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the actuator 78 is configured to translate axially within the inner tube 66 in response to application of a force Fl to the release button 80. As the actuator 78 translates downwardly, the pin 86 extending from the latch plate 70 is configured to slide within the angled slot 84. This movement of the pin 86 simultaneously translates the latch plate 70 within the slot 76 of the latch plate housing 74, thereby causing the latch plate 70 to retract into the interior of the inner tube 66. As can be seen in FIG. 4B, in an embodiment, in the retracted configuration, the latch plate 70 is substantially flush with an exterior surface of the inner tube 66.
[0084] A biasing member 88 (see FIG. 3) may be coupled to the actuator 78. Accordingly, when the release button 80 is pushed, the translation of the actuator 78 may
compress or oppose the biasing force of the biasing member 88. After the force is removed from the release button 80, the biasing member 88 operably coupled to the actuator 78 will bias the actuator axially upwardly, back to a neutral position, thereby causing the pin 86 to slide within the angled slot 84, and the latch plate 70 to protrude beyond the exterior surface of the inner tube 66.
[0085] In operation, the release button 80 is pressed to retract the latch plate 70 to an unlocked configuration. When the latch plate 70 is separated from the outer tube 64, the inner tube 66 may be axially translated relative to the outer tube 64. Once the inner tube 66 is at a position associated with a desired height of the seat member 24, and where the latch plate 70 is aligned with a corresponding opening 68 of the outer tube 64, the force Fl is removed from the release button 80. As a result of the biasing force of the biasing member 88, the latch plate 70 will transform to the extended configuration in which the latch plate 70 is received within the aligned opening 68 formed in the outer tube 64, thereby locking or restricting relative movement between the inner tube 66 and the outer tube 64.
[0086] In an embodiment, the multi -function high chair 20 is suitable for use with a plurality of attachments, the attachments being interchangeable with one another. An example of such an attachment is shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the attachment includes a tray 100 removably mountable to a portion of the seat member 24, such as to the upright side walls 44 of the seat member 24 for example. When the tray 100 is mounted to the seat member 24, the tray 100 may restrict movement of a child from the hollow interior 48 of the seat member 24 via the front 50 thereof.
[0087] With reference now to FIGS. 5A-6B, an example of another attachment removably connectable at least one of the seat member 24 and the base 22 of the high chair 20 is illustrated. As shown, the attachment is another seat member 110, also referred to herein as an infant seat. In embodiments where the attachment is another seat member, the seat member 24 mounted to the base 22 may be considered a “first seat member” and the attachment or infant seat 110 connectable to the seat member 24 may be considered a “second seat member.”
[0088] The second seat member or infant seat 110 has a frame including a base frame 112 for accommodating the infant seat 110 on a support surface 114, such as a floor for example. The frame of the infant seat 110 additionally includes a seat frame 116 coupled to the base frame 112 and a fabric or cushioned seat support 118 (FIG. 5B) connected to the seat frame 116 to define a seating surface within which a baby or infant may be positioned. The second seat member or infant seat 110 as described herein may be suitable for use by a baby
or infant who is not capable of supporting themselves in an upright position (such as less than six months of age for example) as well as by an infant who is able to support themselves in an upright position.
[0089] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the base frame 112 includes two generally longitudinal sides 120 and a transverse frame part 122 connected to a first end of the longitudinal sides 120. As best shown in FIG. 5B, the longitudinal sides 120 of the base frame 112 are formed with a convex curvature such that the infant seat 110 is configured as a rocker operable to pivot or rock relative to the support surface 114. As a result, only a portion of the longitudinal sides 120 is arranged in contact with the support surface 114 at any given time. It should be understood that although the base frame 112 illustrated and described herein is generally rectangular in shape, embodiments where the base frame has another shape, such as an ellipsoid shape for example, are also contemplated herein.
[0090] In the illustrated, non -limiting embodiment, a connecting member 124 connected to or integrally formed with the second opposite end of each of the longitudinal sides 120 is coupled to the seat frame 116. As shown, the connecting members 124 are oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal sides 120 of the base frame 112. In an embodiment, the connecting members 124 extend at an angle between about 75° and about 90° relative to the longitudinal sides 120 of the base frame 112. However, it should be understood that embodiments where the connecting members 124 extend at another angle relative to the longitudinal sides 120 are also within the scope of the disclosure.
[0091] The seat frame 116 may similarly include two parallel longitudinal sides 130, a first transverse member 132 connecting or integrally formed with a first end of the two longitudinal sides 130 and a second transverse member 134 connecting or integrally formed with a second, opposite end of the two longitudinal sides 130. Although both the base frame 112 and the seat frame 116 are shown as having a generally rectangular configuration, it should be understood that in other embodiments, a shape of the seat frame 116 may be different than the shape of the base frame 112.
[0092] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the longitudinal sides 130 have a non-planar configuration. As shown, the longitudinal sides 130 include a first, upper portion 136 and a second, lower portion 138 arranged at an angle relative to the first, upper portion 138. In an embodiment, the second lower portion 138 is arranged generally parallel to or at an angle less than 30 degrees relative to the connecting members 124 associated with the base frame 112. As will be described in more detail below, in an embodiment, the contour defined by the second lower portion 138 of the longitudinal sides 130 and the second transverse
member 134 may be generally complementary to the contour of an adjacent portion of the toddler seat, such as the front 50 of the seat member 24 defined by the upright side walls 44 and the front edge 52 of the horizontal seat portion 42.
[0093] As shown in FIGS. 5A-6B, the seat frame 116 may additionally include a support member 140 having a first end 142 and a second end 144 coupled to the two longitudinal sides 130, respectively. In an embodiment, the support member 140 is rotatably mounted to the longitudinal sides 130 such that the support member 140 is rotatable relative to the longitudinal sides 130 about a pivot axis P. However, in other embodiments, the support member 140 may be fixedly mounted to the longitudinal sides 130. In such embodiments, the support member 140 may be arranged generally coplanar with the upper portion 136 of the longitudinal sides 130. The seat support 118 may be positionable about the frame, such as about the first transverse member 132 and the upper portion 136 of the longitudinal sides 130 of the seat frame 116 and the support member 140.
[0094] In an embodiment, the base frame 112 is movable, for example rotatable, relative to the seat frame 116 such that the infant seat 110 is transformable between a first, extended configuration (FIGS. 5A and 5B) and a second, collapsed configuration (FIGS. 6A and 6B). In the extended configuration, the first transverse member 132 of the seat frame 116 is spaced apart from the transverse frame part 122 of the base frame 112. In the collapsed configuration, the first transverse member 132 of the seat frame 116 is disposed a lesser distance from the transverse frame part 122 of the base frame 112. A clearance defined between the first transverse member 132 of the seat frame 116 and the transverse frame part 122 of the base frame 112 is maximized in the extended configuration and is minimized in the collapsed configuration.
[0095] At least one handle 150 having an opening 151 is disposed about the seat frame 116. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a handle 150 is arranged at each longitudinal side 130 of the seat frame 116. The handles 150 may be permanently or removably mounted to the longitudinal sides 130, or alternatively, may be integrally formed therewith. Although the handles 150 are shown as being positioned generally adjacent to the interface between the upper portion 136 and the lower portion 138 of each longitudinal side 130, embodiments where the handles 150 are arranged at another suitable location are also contemplated herein.
[0096] The connecting members 124 may be rotatably mounted to the longitudinal sides 130 of the seat frame 116. In an embodiment, each connecting member 124 is rotatably mounted to a respective handle 150. As best shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, each handle 150
may include a protrusion 152, such as an annular protrusion for example, extending from a side 154 of the handle 150 towards an interior of the seat frame 116 for example. The protrusions 152 may cooperate to define the pivot axis P. In such embodiments, the connecting member 124 may be connectable to, and in some embodiments may be receivable about, a portion of the protrusion 152. In an embodiment, the protrusion 152 includes a generally hollow channel 156 and the connecting member 124 may be arranged at the distal end of the channel 156, thereby sealing the channel 156.
[0097] In an embodiment, each handle 150 includes a locking mechanism 158 operable to restrict rotation of the base frame 112 relative to the seat frame 116 about the pivot axis P. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the locking mechanism 158 includes a pusher 160 and a sliding gear 162 generally arranged within the channel 156. An outer diameter of the pusher 160 and the sliding gear 162 may be substantially equal to or slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the channel 156. As shown, the sliding gear 162 is positioned generally between the connecting member 124 and a first end 164 of the pusher 160. Further, a groove 166 may be formed at the connecting member 124, facing the protrusion 152. The groove 166 may be sized to receive the entirety of the sliding gear 162 therein.
[0098] With reference to FIGS. 8 A and 8B, the sliding gear 162 is prevented from rotating about the pivot axis P when positioned within the channel 156. In an embodiment, the outer diameter of the sliding gear 162 has at least one spline or keyway 170 formed therein and at least one tooth or key 172 protrudes from the inner diameter of the groove 166 formed in the connecting member 124. The at least one key 172 and keyway 170 are generally complementary to one another and are rotationally aligned with one another about the pivot axis P. Further, at least one second key 174 complementary to the at least one keyway 170 may extend from the inner diameter of a portion of the channel 156. Although the sliding gear 162 is illustrated and described herein as having the keyway 170 and the channel 156 and groove 166 are illustrated and described as having the keys 172, 174, it should be understood that embodiments where the sliding gear 162 has a key and the channel 156 and groove 166 have a keyway formed therein are also within the scope of the disclosure. Further, it should be understood that the pusher 160 may similarly have one or more key ways formed therein configured to cooperate with the at least one key 174 of the channel 156 to restrict rotation of the pusher 160 about the pivot axis P.
[0099] In an embodiment, a biasing member 176, such as a coil spring for example, extends between the sliding gear 162 and a portion of the connecting member 124, such as a
surface of the groove 166 of the connecting member 124 for example. The biasing force of the biasing member 176 is configured to bias the sliding gear 162 toward the pusher 160, and into the channel 156 away from the groove 166 formed in the connecting member 124.
[00100] The locking mechanism 158 includes an actuator 178 operable by a user to selectively apply an axial force to the pusher 160. In an embodiment, the pusher 160 includes at least one sloped or ramped surface 180 and the actuator 178 is configured to apply a force to the pusher 160 via the ramped surface 180. With continued reference to FIGS. 7A and 7B and further reference to FIGS. 9 A and 9B, in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the actuator 178 includes an actuation mechanism 182, such as a depressible portion or other input device for example, that is movably mounted to the handle 150. The actuation mechanism 182 may be generally arranged within the interior of the handle 150; however, a portion of the actuation mechanism 182 may be exposed at or protrude from the opening 151 of the handle 150. A first end 186 of an actuator strap 184 may be slidably connected to the actuation mechanism 182. A second, distal end 188 of the actuator strap 184 includes at least one ramped feature 190 (see FIGS. 7A and 7B) configured to cooperate with the at least one ramped surface 180 of the pusher 160.
[00101] The locking mechanism 158 is configured to automatically lock the base frame 112 against rotation relative to the seat frame 116. In the locked configuration, best shown in FIGS. 7A, 8 A, and 9A, the ramped feature 190 of the actuator 178 is axially aligned and therefore fully seated or engaged with the ramped surface(s) 180 of the pusher 160. In such a configuration, the sliding gear 162, which is biased into contact with the first end 164 of the pusher 160 by the biasing member 176, is arranged partially within the channel 156 of the protrusion 152 and partially within the groove 166 of the connecting member 124. In this offset position, the at least one key 172 protruding from the recess 166 and the at least one second key 174 protruding from the channel 156 are both received within the at least one keyway 170 of the sliding gear 162. This engagement of the sliding gear 162 with both the channel 156 and the connecting member 124 not only restricts rotation of the connecting member 124 relative to the sliding gear 162, but also rotation of the sliding gear 162 relative to the channel 156.
[00102] To unlock the locking mechanism 158 and allow rotation of the base frame 112 relative to the seat frame 116, a user applies a force F2 to the actuation mechanism 182. The force applied by a user causes the actuation mechanism 182 to move relative to the handle 150. As a result of the interface between the actuation mechanism 182 and the actuator strap 184, the movement of the actuation mechanism 182 exerts a force on the
actuator strap 184. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the force applied to the actuator strap 184 moves the second end 188 of the actuator strap 184 out of axial alignment with the pusher 160. As best shown in FIG. 7B, as the actuator strap 184 moves, the one or more ramped features 190 of the actuator strap 184 slidably engage the at least one the ramped surface 180 of the pusher 160. This engagement applies an axial force to the pusher 160 opposing the biasing force of the biasing member 176, thereby causing the pusher 160 and the sliding gear 162 to translate along the pivot axis P. In the fully actuated position, the sliding gear 162 is wholly received within the groove 166. In such a position, the sliding gear 162 and the connecting member 124 (in unison) are freely rotatable about the pivot axis P relative to the protrusion 152. Accordingly, application of a force F2 to the actuation mechanism 182 unlocks the base frame 112 relative to the seat frame 116. Once unlocked, the base frame 112 is rotatable relative to the seat frame 116 to a desired position.
[00103] Once the base frame 112 has been reached the desired position, such as a position associated with the collapsed configuration for example, a user releases the actuation mechanism 182. Upon removal of the force F2 from the actuation mechanism 182, the actuation mechanism will return to its original position, such as via gravity, thereby causing the actuator strap 184 to slide towards the pusher 160. Further, the biasing force of the biasing member 176 will cause the sliding gear 162 to translate at least partially into the channel 156, and will cause the ramped surface 180 of the pusher 160 to translate into engagement with the ramped feature 190 at the second end 188 of the actuator strap 184. It should be understood that application of a force F2 by a user to the actuation mechanism 182 when the infant seat 110 is in the collapsed configuration is operable to unlock the base frame 112. Once unlocked, the base frame 112 is rotatable relative to the seat frame 116, to as to transform the infant seat 110 to the extended position.
[00104] With reference now to FIGS. 10A and 10B, the second seat member or infant seat 110 is directly mountable to the first seat member or toddler seat 24 while the seat member 24 is mounted to the base 22. In embodiments where the seat back 46 of the seat member 24 is configured to recline relative to the horizontal seat portion 42, the infant seat 110 may be releasably engageable with the seat member 24 regardless of the position of the seat back 46. For example, the infant seat 110 may be attached to the seat member 24 when the seat back 46 of the seat member 24 is in the upright position, a reclined position, or any position therebetween.
[00105] In an embodiment, the second seat member 110 is connectable to the toddler chair or seat member 24 of the high chair 20 when in the collapsed configuration. As
shown, the base frame 112 is receivable within the interior 48 of the seat member 24 and at least a portion of the seat frame 116 is positionable in overlapping arrangement with an edge or upper surface of the seat member 24. When connected to the seat member 24, the second transverse member 134 and the lower portions 138 of the longitudinal sides 130 of the seat frame 116 may be generally aligned with, and in some embodiments offset from, the front edge 52 of the seat member 24.
[00106] A frame of the infant seat 110, such as the seat frame 116 for example, may be releasably engageable with the first seat member via the handle 150. When the infant seat 110 is attached to the seat member 24, the handles 150 associated with the seat frame 116 may be axially aligned with the upright side walls 44 of the seat member 24. In an embodiment, a recess 192 (see FIGS. 6B, 9A, 9B, and 11) is formed at a lower portion of the handle 150 and a portion of an upright side wall 44, such as a protrusion 210 forming an armrest located at or near an upper surface of the upright side wall 44 for example, is receivable therein.
[00107] The infant seat 110 may include a latching mechanism 200 operable to rigidly affix the infant seat 110 to the seat member 24. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 11, the latching mechanism 200 includes a latch 202 pivotably mounted to the handle 150. A first end 204 of the latch 202 is contoured to include a hook shape or a catch connectable to a portion of the seat member 24, such as a lower surface of the protrusion 210 for example. When the latching mechanism 200 is in a default or unactuated position, as shown in FIGS. 11 and FIG. 9A, the first end 204 of the latch 202 is in an engaged position and is arranged directly adjacent to, and in some embodiments extends into the recess 192 formed in the handle 150. Although not shown, a biasing member, such as a torsion spring for example, may be operably coupled to the latch 202 and operable to bias the latch 202 into the engaged position.
[00108] A second end 206 of the latch 202 may be operably coupled to an actuation mechanism, such as the actuation mechanism 182. Accordingly, when a force F2 is applied to the actuation mechanism 182 to actuate to latching mechanism 200, the engagement between the latch 202 and the actuation mechanism 182 causes the latch 202 to rotate about its axis X, against the biasing force of the biasing member. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, operation of the latching mechanism 200 causes the latch 202 to rotate in a first direction indicated by arrow D, away from the recess 192 to a disengaged position. Although the latching mechanism 200 is illustrated and described herein as being operated by the same actuation mechanism 182 as the locking mechanism 158, in other
embodiments, a different actuation mechanism may be associated with the locking mechanism 158 and the latching mechanism 200, respectively.
[00109] When the latching mechanism 200 is operated and the latch 202 is in the rotated position away from the recess 192 (see FIG. 9B), the second seat member or infant seat 110 may be installed about the toddler seat or seat member 24. Specifically, a portion of the upright side wall 44, such as the protrusion 210 for example, may be installed within the recess 192 formed in the handle 150. Once the infant seat 110 is properly positioned, the latching mechanism 200 can be deactivated by releasing the actuation mechanism 182. Upon removal of the force from the actuation mechanism 182, the biasing member will rotate the latch 202 about its axis X, biasing the first end 204 of the latch 202 toward and into engagement with the portion of the seat member 24 arranged within the recess 192. This engagement between the portion of the seat member 24 arranged within the recess 192 and the first end 204 of the latch 202 restricts movement of the infant seat 110 relative to the seat member 24. To separate the infant seat 110 from the seat member 24, a user simply applies a force to the actuation mechanism 182 of the latching mechanism 200, thereby causing the latch 202 to rotate out of engagement with the protrusion 210.
[00110] In an exemplary embodiment, operation of the actuation mechanism 182 when the infant seat 110 is in the collapsed configuration and affixed to the seat member 24 will simultaneously disengage the infant seat 110 from the toddler seat or seat member 24 and unlock the base frame 112 to allow rotation into an extended position an extended configuration. Because the same actuation mechanism 182 is associated with both the locking mechanism 158 and the latch 202 of the latching mechanism 200, both disengaging the infant seat 110 from the seat member 24 and unlocking the base frame 112 occur automatically in response to operation of the actuation mechanism 182.
[00111] A user may operate or apply a force F2 to the actuation mechanism 182 when picking the infant seat 110 (in an extended configuration) off of the floor. By continuing to apply the force F2 to the actuation mechanism 182 as the infant seat 110 is installed about the seat member 24, contact with the seat member 24 will cause the freely rotatable base frame 112 to rotate relative to the seat frame 116, thereby transforming the infant seat 110 to the collapsed configuration. Upon release of the actuation mechanism 182, the base frame 112 will be rotationally locked relative to the seat frame 116, and the latch 202 will be biased into engagement with the protrusion 210 of the seat member 24 via the biasing member. Similarly, when a force F2 is applied to the actuation mechanism 182 when separating the infant seat 110 from the seat member 24, gravity acting on the base frame 112
may cause the base frame 112 to automatically rotate relative to the seat frame 116 to the extended configuration once the infant seat 110 is no longer in contact with the seat member 24. It should be appreciated that the infant seat 110 may be removed from a support surface and attached to the seat member 24 and/or may be separated from the seat member 24 and arranged on a support surface while an infant is positioned within the infant seat 110.
[00112] A multi -function high chair 20 configured to receive an infant seat 110 as illustrated and described herein provides a user with a safe place to put a child in many scenarios around the home. Further, by allowing the infant seat 110 to connect to the high chair 20 without disassembly or modification, it is easier for a caregiver to use the infant seat 110 both as an attachment to the high chair 10 and as a separate device.
[00113] The term “about” is intended to include the degree of error associated with measurement of the particular quantity based upon the equipment available at the time of filing the application.
[00114] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, element components, and/or groups thereof.
[00115] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment or embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this present disclosure, but that the present disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the claims.
Claims
1. A multi -function high chair comprising: a base including at least one leg assembly; and a first seat member mounted to said base; wherein said first seat member is configured to receive a second seat member mounted directly to said first seat member while said first seat member is mounted to said base.
2. The multi -function high chair of claim 1, wherein said first seat member further comprises: a horizontal seat portion; a first upright side wall arranged at a first side of said horizontal seat portion and a second upright side wall arranged at a second side of said horizontal seat portion; and a seat back connected to said horizontal seat portion and to said first upright side wall and said second upright side wall.
3. The multi -function high chair of claim 2, wherein said seat back extends vertically above said first upright side wall and said second upright side wall.
4. The multi-function high chair of claim 2, wherein said second seat member is connectable to said first upright side wall and said second upright side wall.
5. The multi -function high chair of claim 2, wherein each of said first upright side wall and said second upright side wall includes an armrest, said second seat member being connectable to said armrest.
6. The multi -function high chair of claim 1, wherein said first seat member is permanently affixed to said base.
7. The multi -function high chair of claim 1, wherein said first seat member is removably coupled to said base.
8. The multi -function high chair of claim 1, wherein said at least one leg assembly is adjustable to support said first seat member at a plurality of different heights.
9. The multi -function high chair of claim 8, wherein said at least one leg assembly further comprises: an outer tube having a plurality of openings; an inner tube slidable relative to said outer tube; a latch plate movably mounted to said inner tube, said latch plate being selectively receivable within one of said plurality of openings; and
a height adjustment latch mechanism operably coupled to said latch plate, wherein said height adjustment latch mechanism is operable to control a configuration of said latch plate.
10. The multi -function high chair of claim 9, wherein said height adjustment latch mechanism further comprises an actuator operable to move said latch plate between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration.
11. The multi -function high chair of claim 9, wherein said height adjustment latch mechanism further comprises an actuator having a slot formed therein and said latch plate further comprises a pin, said pin being arranged within said slot.
12. The multi -function high chair of claim 1, wherein said first seat member is configurable to receive at least one attachment when said second seat member is not mounted to said first seat member.
13. The multi -function high chair of claim 12, wherein said at least one attachment includes a tray.
14. The multi-function high chair of claim 1, wherein said first seat member is a toddler seat and said second seat member is an infant seat.
15. The multi -function high chair of claim 1, wherein said second seat member further comprises: a seat frame; and a base frame movably coupled to said seat frame, wherein said second seat member is transformable between an extended configuration and a collapsed configuration, said second seat member being connectable to said first seat member in said collapsed configuration.
16. The multi -function high chair of claim 15, wherein a clearance is defined between said base frame and said seat frame, said clearance being maximized when said second seat member is in said extended configuration and said clearance being minimized when said base frame is in said collapsed configuration.
17. The multi -function high chair of claim 15, wherein said seat frame further comprises: two longitudinal sides; a first transverse member connecting a first end of said two longitudinal sides; and a second transverse member connecting a second, opposite end of said two longitudinal sides.
18. The multi -function high chair of claim 17, wherein each of said two longitudinal sides includes an upper portion and a lower portion, said lower portion being arranged at an angle relative to the upper portion.
19. The multi -function high chair of claim 18, wherein a contour of said lower portion of said two longitudinal sides and said second transverse member is generally complementary to a contour of a portion of said first seat member.
20. The multi -function high chair of claim 15, wherein said base frame is rotatable relative to said seat frame to transform said second seat member between said extended configuration and said collapsed configuration.
21. The multi -function high chair of claim 20, further comprising at least one handle coupled to said seat frame, wherein said base frame is rotatably coupled to said at least one handle.
22. The multi -function high chair of claim 21, further comprising a locking mechanism operable to restrict rotation of said base frame relative to said seat frame.
23. The multi -function high chair of claim 22, wherein said at least one handle further comprises a protrusion having a channel and said locking mechanism further comprises a pusher and a sliding gear generally arranged within said channel and an actuation mechanism operably coupled to said pusher.
24. The multi -function high chair of claim 15, further comprising: at least one handle disposed about said seat frame; and a latching mechanism associated with said at least one handle, said latching mechanism being operable to couple said second seat member to said first seat member.
25. The multi -function high chair of claim 24, wherein said latching mechanism further comprises: a latch pivotably mounted to said at least one handle, said latch having a first end configured to engage a portion of said first seat member in an engaged position; and an actuation mechanism operably coupled to said latch to selectively pivot said latch from said engaged position to a disengaged position.
26. The multi -function high chair of claim 25, wherein said latching mechanism further comprises a biasing member operably coupled to said latch, said biasing member being operable to bias said latch into said engaged position.
27. The multi -function high chair of claim 25, wherein said at least one handle has a recess formed therein, said portion of said first seat member being receivable within said recess.
28. The multi -function high chair of claim 27, wherein said first end of said latch is configured to engage said portion of said first seat member receivable within said recess.
29. A multi -function high chair assembly comprising: a base including at least one leg assembly; a first seat member positioned about said base; and a second seat member including a frame that is releasably engageable with at least one of said base and said first seat member, said frame being transformable between an extended configuration and a collapsed configuration; and an actuation mechanism disposed with said frame, said actuation mechanism being operable to both unlock said frame for movement between said extended configuration and said collapsed configuration, and release said frame from engagement with at least one of said base and said first seat member.
30. The multi -function high chair assembly of claim 29, wherein said actuation mechanism is operable to simultaneously unlock said frame and release said frame from engagement with at least one of said base and said first seat member.
31. The multi -function high chair assembly of claim 29, wherein said first seat member further comprises: a horizontal seat portion; a first upright side wall arranged at a first side of said horizontal seat portion and a second upright side wall arranged at a second side of said horizontal seat portion; and a seat back connected to said horizontal seat portion and to said first upright side wall and said second upright side wall.
32. The multi -function high chair assembly of claim 31, wherein said second seat member is releasably engageable with at least one of said first upright side wall and said second upright side wall.
33. The multi -function high chair assembly of claim 32, wherein each of said first upright side wall and said second upright side wall includes an armrest, said frame of said second seat member being connectable to said armrest.
34. The multi -function high chair assembly of claim 29, wherein said second seat member further comprises a latching mechanism operable to affix said frame of said second seat member to said first seat member.
35. The multi -function high chair assembly of claim 34, wherein said second seat member further comprises at least one handle and said latching mechanism further comprises:
a latch pivotably mounted to said at least one handle and movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position; and a biasing member operably coupled to said latch, said biasing member being operable to bias said latch into said engaged position.
36. The multi -function high chair assembly of claim 35, wherein said latch is rotatable from said engaged position to said disengaged position via said actuation mechanism.
37. The multi -function high chair assembly of claim 29, wherein said first seat member is configurable to receive at least one attachment when said second seat member is not mounted to said first seat member.
38. The multi -function high chair assembly of claim 37, wherein said at least one attachment includes a tray.
39. An infant seat for use with a toddler seat of a multi -function high chair, the infant seat comprising: a frame transformable between an extended configuration and a collapsed configuration; and an infant seat support positionable about said frame; wherein said frame is directly connectable to the toddler seat of the multi-function high chair in said collapsed configuration.
40. The infant seat of claim 39, wherein said frame further comprises: a seat frame; and a base frame rotatably coupled to said seat frame to transform said frame between said extended configuration and said collapsed configuration.
41. The infant seat of claim 40, wherein a clearance is defined between said base frame and said seat frame, said clearance being maximized when said frame is in said extended configuration and said clearance being minimized when said base frame is in said collapsed configuration.
42. The infant seat of claim 40, further comprising a locking mechanism operable to restrict rotation of said base frame relative to said seat frame.
43. The infant seat of claim 42, further comprising: at least one handle disposed about said seat frame; and a latching mechanism associated with said at least one handle, said latching mechanism being operable to couple the toddler seat of the multi -function high chair.
44. The infant seat of claim 43, wherein said latching mechanism further comprises: a latch pivotably mounted to said at least one handle, said latch being configured to engage the toddler seat in an engaged position; and an actuation mechanism operably coupled to said latch to selectively pivot said latch from said engaged position to a disengaged position.
45. The infant seat of claim 39, wherein the toddler seat is configurable to receive at least one attachment when said frame is not connected to the toddler seat.
46. The infant seat of claim 45, wherein said at least one attachment is a tray.
47. The infant seat of claim 39, wherein a contour of a portion of said frame is generally complementary to a contour of an adjacent portion of the toddler seat.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US202263435049P | 2022-12-23 | 2022-12-23 | |
| PCT/US2023/084245 WO2024137378A1 (en) | 2022-12-23 | 2023-12-15 | Multi-function high chair |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| EP4637480A1 true EP4637480A1 (en) | 2025-10-29 |
Family
ID=91589890
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| EP23908213.4A Pending EP4637480A1 (en) | 2022-12-23 | 2023-12-15 | Multi-function high chair |
Country Status (4)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP4637480A1 (en) |
| CN (1) | CN120390608A (en) |
| TW (1) | TW202437968A (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2024137378A1 (en) |
Family Cites Families (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TW539633B (en) * | 2000-11-24 | 2003-07-01 | Combi Co | Child car seat and baby carriage |
| ITVR20060060A1 (en) * | 2006-03-30 | 2007-09-30 | Inglesina Baby Spa | STRUCTURE OF CHAIRS |
| US7673934B2 (en) * | 2007-06-26 | 2010-03-09 | Wonderland Nurserygoods Co., Ltd. | Dual purpose high chair |
| CN210300375U (en) * | 2018-05-07 | 2020-04-14 | 明门(中国)幼童用品有限公司 | Foldable containing device |
| US11641952B2 (en) * | 2019-06-21 | 2023-05-09 | Kids2, Inc. | Modular cradle |
-
2023
- 2023-12-15 CN CN202380088330.8A patent/CN120390608A/en active Pending
- 2023-12-15 WO PCT/US2023/084245 patent/WO2024137378A1/en not_active Ceased
- 2023-12-15 EP EP23908213.4A patent/EP4637480A1/en active Pending
- 2023-12-18 TW TW112149305A patent/TW202437968A/en unknown
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| WO2024137378A1 (en) | 2024-06-27 |
| TW202437968A (en) | 2024-10-01 |
| CN120390608A (en) | 2025-07-29 |
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