GB2509126A

GB2509126A - Multifunctional baby apparatus

Info

Publication number: GB2509126A
Application number: GB201223162A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Susan Harris
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2012-12-21
Filing date: 2012-12-21
Publication date: 2014-06-25
Also published as: GB201223162D0

Abstract

A multifunctional apparatus 10 intended to provide a number of items of baby equipment comprises a bowl-shaped baby retaining receptacle 12 supported on a stand 14. The receptacle 12 is formed from transparent or partially transparent material such that a parent/carer may easily view a baby when in the receptacle. The stand comprises a base 20 having wheels (42, fig. 14) allowing movement across a floor 18, and a telescopic support shaft 22 having an articulated joint 24 to which the receptacle 12 is releasably attached and which allows the receptacle to tilt between an upright, chair mode, and a flat, Moses basket mode. Brake means are provided in the form of a shroud or cover 44 which can be moved into a ground engaging position to prevent movement of the wheels across the floor. The receptacle may be capable of holding water for use as a baby bath, with a plugged hole (not shown) being provided for drainage. The apparatus may include a lid which can be attached to the receptacle in two orientations to convert the receptacle to a baby changing table or an enclosed container (see figures 17 & 18).

Description

MULTIFUNCTIONAL BABY UNIT

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a multifunctional baby unit and to a method of reconfiguring a multifunctional baby unit.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

At present, new parents are generally encouraged to purchase numerous items of baby furniture and equipment and the total sums spent can be very significant at a time when the income of new parents may become (temporarily) reduced. These items of apparatus may be relatively essential and can include items such as a baby bath, a changing table, a Moses basket etc. The number of separate items that need to be purchased is therefore expensive.

All of these separate items of and can take up precious space within a house or flat when the items are not in use and the items are being stored. Due to the nature of these items, they are generally never required simultaneously with each other when being used with a single baby/infant. For example, the Moses basket will only be required during the night and for any daytime naps, a baby bath and/or changing table would only be required at specific times throughout the day.

In addition, these items of equipment are generally only required for certain stages as the baby develops and grows. Accordingly, the life span for these items of equipment can be short although parents may hold onto the equipment for any future children. However, the items of equipment must be stored whilst not required and this can take up significant space.

There are numerous devices these days to enable parents to visually monitor a baby in a remote location such as in a Moses basket etc. However, these monitoring devices all rely on electrical technology which is therefore, reliant on a reliable power source and a good wireless signal area. Alternatively, the Moses basket can be placed such that a parent can simply directly see the baby over the sides of the Moses basket from above. This may require the Moses basket to be placed in a part of the room that may not be suitable and in which the Moses basket may prevent a hazard since it will be directly resting on the floor.

It is an aim of the present invention to overcome at least one problem associated with the prior art, when they refer to herein or otherwise.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a multifunctional baby unit comprising a stand and a removable baby retaining receptacle, the baby retaining receptacle comprising: a wall for containing a baby within the baby retaining receptacle and wherein the wall comprises a light transmitting material, the stand comprising: a support base comprising movement means to enable the multifunctional baby unit to be moved over a support surface and the movement means comprising brake means in order to prevent movement of the multifunctional baby unit over the support surface; and a support shaft extending between the support base and the baby retaining receptacle in order to support the baby retaining receptacle spaced from a support surface, the support shaft having a first end comprising a joint which is arranged to removably retain the baby retaining receptacle and wherein the joint is articulated to enable the receptacle to be orientated in different positions relative to the stand.

Preferably the wall enables a baby located within the receptacle to be visually seen through the wall.

Preferably the wall is transparent and more preferably the receptacle is formed from a transparent material.

Preferably the wall is rigid. The wall may comprise a single continuous wall. The wall may be arcuate or shaped.

Preferably the length of the support shaft is adjustable.

The support shaft may be telescopic.

Preferably the mutifunctional baby unit comprise a height actuating member. The height actuating member may be manually operable to enable the height of the support shaft to be adjusted.

The multifunctional baby unit may comprise extending means to extend the length of the support shaft. The extending means may comprise hydraulic or pneumatic means. Preferably the height actuating member is operated in order to cause the extending means to operate and to increase the length of the support shaft. The height actuating means may be operable and a user may then simultaneously manually decrease the length of the support shaft by compressing the support shaft.

The joint may enable the baby retaining receptacle to be rotated.

The joint may enable the baby retaining receptacle to swivel and preferably the joint enables the baby retaining receptacle to swivel through 360 degrees.

The joint may enable the baby retaining receptacle to be tilted. Preferably the baby retaining receptacle is tiltable about a single axis. Preferably the joint enables the baby retaining receptacle to be tilted such that the height of a first longitudinal end of the baby retaining receptacle is adjustable relative to the height of a second longitudinal end of the baby retaining receptacle.

Preferably the joint comprises a tilt actuating member. The tilt actuating member may be operable to enable the baby retaining receptacle to be manually tilted.

Preferably the tilt actuating member, when not operated, locks the baby retaining receptacle in a selected tilted position.

The tilt actuating member may comprise a lever or an operating paddle.

The tilt actuating member may be operable to unlock the tilted position of the baby retaining receptacle and this may enable a user to manually tilt the baby retaining receptacle into a required position and the tilt actuating member may then be released to secure the baby retaining receptacle at the required angle of tilt.

The baby retaining receptacle may be arranged to contain a liquid therein.

The baby retaining receptacle may comprise a liquid outlet and a plug which may enable a liquid to be selectively removed or drained from the baby retaining receptacle.

The plug may be insertable into the liquid outlet to seal the liquid outlet and wherein the plug may be inserted from either inside of the receptacle or from outside the receptacle. Similarly, the plug may be removable from the liquid outlet from either inside of the receptacle or from outside the receptacle.

The plug may comprise a resilient and/or deformable plug.

The baby retaining receptacle may comprise a lid.

Preferably the lid is removably securable to the baby retaining receptacle.

Preferably an outer peripheral edge is configured to fit within an engage with an inner wall of the baby retaining receptacle.

Preferably the circumference of the inner wall of the baby retaining receptacle decreases from an upper lip or edge towards a base portion. Preferably the circumference of the outer peripheral edge of the lid is less than the circumference of the lip or upper edge of the baby retaining receptacle. The lid may be engaged within the receptacle through an interference fit.

The lid may be supportable within the baby retaining receptacle in order to provide a support surface for a baby. The support surface may comprise a central matting area and an outer edge area. The matting area may comprise a padded area.

The lid is preferably securable with a first side facing upwards in order to provide a support surface for a changing table.

The lid may be securable to the baby retaining receptacle in order for the baby retaining receptacle to provide an enclosed storage space. The lid is preferably securable with a second side facing upwards in order to provide a lid for a storage container. The second side of the lid may comprise handles in order for a user to remove and hold the lid.

The lid may comprise a reversible lid. The lid may be securable in a first orientation within the baby retaining receptacle in order to provide a changing table and the lid may be securable in a second orientation within the baby retaining receptacle in order to provide an enclosed storage box.

One side of the lid may comprise support means to support the lid on a surface and preferably causes the upwardly facing other side to provide a support surface.

Preferably the lid is stably supportable on a surface through the support means.

The upwardly facing surface may provide a level and flat surface.

The movement means may comprise a plurality of movement members which may comprise wheels. The wheels may comprise casters. The casters may be pivotally mounted such that the casters will automatically be aligned with the direction of travel.

The support base may comprise a plurality of spokes which may extend outwardly form a second end of the support shaft. Preferably the support base comprises four or five or more spokes which extend outwardly from a second end of the support shaft.

Each spoke may extend from a proximal end located adjacent to the second end of the support shaft to a distal end. The support base may comprise a movement member or caster located at or towards a distal end of each spoke.

The support base may comprise brake means to prevent the multifunctional baby unit being pushed across a support surface on the casters. The brake means may comprise support surface engaging means such that the surface engaging means engages with a part of the support surface to prevent the multifunctional baby unit from being pushed along over the support surface.

The brake means may comprise a shroud or cover which is movable relative to the support surface. Preferably the shroud is movable between an upper position where the shroud does not engage the support surface and a lower position where the shroud does engage the support surface. Preferably the shroud locates over support spokes on which the movement members or casters are mounted.

Accordingly, the shroud may be movable relative to the support spokes.

Preferably the shroud covers each spoke of the support base. The shroud may be mounted around a second end of the support shaft and preferably the shroud is movable mounted around the second end of the support shaft. Preferably the shroud is axially movable along the support shaft.

Preferably in the lower position, the shroud visually conceals the movement members or wheels mounted on the spokes.

The rnultifunctional baby unit may comprise a detachable seating pod. The detachable seating pod may be securable to the unit by the joint. Again, the seating pod may be tiltable through the joint relative to the support shaft. The seating pod may be securable in order for the multifunctional baby unit to provide a high chair for a baby.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of reconfiguring a baby unit, the baby unit comprising a stand and a removable baby retaining receptacle, the baby retaining receptacle comprising: a wall for containing a baby within the baby retaining receptacle and wherein the wall comprises a light transmitting material, the stand comprising: a support base comprising movement means to enable the multifunctional baby unit to be moved over a support surface and the movement means; and a support shaft extending between the support base and the baby retaining receptacle in order to support the baby retaining receptacle spaced from a support surface, the support shaft having a first end comprising a joint which is arranged to removably retain the baby retaining receptacle; the method comprising articulating a joint to orientate the receptacle in different positions relative to the stand, the method further comprising operating brake means to prevent movement of the baby unit over the support surface The method may comprise removing or inserting a mattress into the baby retaining receptacle.

The method may comprise securing a lid in the baby retaining receptacle in a first orientation in order to provide a support surface for a baby.

The method may comprise securing a lid in the baby retaining receptacle in a second orientation in order to provide an enclosed storage space.

The method may comprise providing a plug to seal a drainage hole with the wall of the baby retaining receptacle in order for the baby retaining receptacle to function as a bath.

The method may comprise pushing the baby unit over a support surface. The method may comprise applying a brake to prevent the baby unit from being moved over a support surface.

The method may comprise tilting the bay retaining receptacle relative to the support shaft.

The method may comprise adjusting the length of the support shaft.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is a side view of a preferred embodiment a front view of a preferred embodiment of a multifunctional baby unit in accordance with the present invention; Figure 2 is a front view of a preferred embodiment of a multifunctional baby unit in accordance with the present invention; Figure 3 is a view from underneath of a preferred embodiment of a multitunctional baby unit in accordance with the present invention; Figure 4 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of a multifunctional baby unit in accordance with the present invention; Figure 5 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of a multifunctional baby unit in accordance with the present invention with the receptacle in a tilted position; Figure 6 is a cut away perspective view of a part of a preferred embodiment of a multifunctional baby unit in accordance with the present invention; Figure 7 is a cut away perspective view of a part of a preferred embodiment of a multifunctional baby unit in accordance with the present invention; Figure 8 is a cut away perspective view of a part of a preferred embodiment of a multifunctional baby unit in accordance with the present invention; Figure 9 is a cut away perspective view of a part of a preferred embodiment of a multifunctional baby unit in accordance with the present invention; Figure 10 is a cut away perspective view of a part of a preferred embodiment of a multifunctional baby unit in accordance with the present invention; Figure 11 is a cut away perspective view of a part of a preferred embodiment of a multifunctional baby unit in accordance with the present invention; Figure 12 is a cut away perspective view of a part of a preferred embodiment of a multifunctional baby unit in accordance with the present invention; Figure 13 is a perspective side view of a base of a preferred embodiment of a multifunctional baby unit in accordance with the present invention in a braked position; Figure 14 is a perspective side view of a base of a preferred embodiment of a multifunctional baby unit in accordance with the present invention in an unbraked position; Figure 15 is a side view of a brake actuator in a braked position; Figure 16 is a side view of a brake actuator in an unbraked position; Figure 17 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a multifunctional baby unit in accordance with the present invention with the lid providing a

changing table; and

Figure 18 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a multifunctional baby unit in accordance with the present invention with the lid providing a storage container.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

As shown in Figure 1 to Figure 18, the present invention relates to a multifunctional baby unit 10 which can be adapted to provide a number of items of baby equipment in order to reduce the costs and storage space required in relation to individual items of baby equipment. In particular, the multifunctional baby unit may provide a Moses basket, a baby bath, a changing table, a storage box etc. The multifunctional baby unit 10 comprises a baby retaining receptacle 12 which is supported on a stand 14 such that the baby is held at a convenient height.

Generally, Moses baskets and baby baths may be directly placed on the floor 18.

This may present a risk to the baby in that pets/animals may be able to access the baby easily and falling objects may also be more liable to accidentally fall onto something resting directly on the floor. Bulky baby apparatus resting directly on the floor also poses a tripping hazard.

The multifunctional baby unit 10 provides the selected baby apparatus at an easily accessible height for the parent/carer. In particular, the baby may be supported at a height which is directly controlled by the user such that the user sets the height to prevent undue stooping. Accordingly, the present invention supports the baby at a desired height. It is likely that a parent/carer selects a height to minimise and reduce any bending or stooping required by the parent/carer and this functionality provides ergonomic benefits over prior art equipment.

The baby retaining receptacle 12 comprises a nacelle or shell which generally comprises a bowl shaped baby holder. In particular, the baby retaining receptacle comprises an outer peripheral wall 16 for containing the baby and keeps the baby from falling out of the receptacle 12. The outer wall 16 comprises a light transmitting material such that a parentlcarer can view the baby therethrough.

This enables a parent/carer to monitor the baby easily. In addition, the viewing function provided by the walls 16 means that an electronic monitor is not required.

The feature of being able to directly view the baby also means that the Moses basket etc. does not have to be placed on the floor for this purpose or the parent does not have to move to an elevated monitoring position.

The baby retaining receptacle 12 comprises a rigid shell and in the preferred embodiments comprises a clear or transparent plastic material. It will be appreciated that the transparency of the material may be selected or varied such that a parent can still view the baby whilst the material is not 100% transparent.

However, the transparency must be sufficient to enable the parent to carefully monitor the baby.

The containing wall 16 of the receptacle must also provide a liquid containing barrier since the receptacle 12 is arranged, in one configuration, to be used as a baby bath. According, in the preferred embodiments, the receptacle 12 comprises a transparent, rigid impervious wall 16. The receptacle 12 comprises a single peripheral wall 16 which is generally an incomplete ovoid shape. The shape is not a perfect ovoid and the side walls are arranged to be more vertically extending whilst the base is arranged to be more horizontal. Overall, the receptacle 12 provides a bowl shaped baby holder which enables the baby to be safely retained whilst generally lying down.

As shown in Figure 1 to Figure 3, the stand 14 of the multifunctional baby unit 10 is arranged to support the unit 10 on the floor 18 (i.e. a support surface). The stand 14 comprises a support base 20 and a support shaft 22. In particular, the support shaft 22 extends vertically upwardly from the support base 20 and at an upper end the support shaft 22 provides an articulated joint 24. This articulated joint 24 is arranged to removably secure the receptacle 12 to the stand 14.

The removable attachment means may be provided by any suitable mechanism but it may, for example, comprise one or more securement members which may project through respective securing apertures provided on the joint 24. The securement members may comprise quick release members and/or the securement members may be secured through the apertures by an associated locking element.

The support shaft 22 is extendable such that the receptacle 12 can be supported at different heights. In the preferred embodiment, the support shaft 22 is telescopic and is provided with a gas lift system similar to that used within an office chair. The gas lift system includes an actuating paddle 26 or lever located at or towards the joint 24. The receptacle 12 can then be raised by pulling the paddle 26 upwardly whilst the weight of the receptacle is temporarily reduced, for example, a user may simultaneously at least partially support the weight of the receptacle. Similarly, the receptacle 12 can be lowered by pulling the paddle 26 or lever upwardly and the weight of the receptacle 12 should be sufficient for the height of the receptacle 12 to be smoothly reduced. Alternatively, or additionally, a user may push downwardly on the receptacle help move the receptacle downwardly.

As shown in Figure 8, Figure 10, Figure 11 and Figure 12, in the preferred embodiment, a shaft 27 of the paddle 26 is rotatably supported in a groove 28 within the joint 24. As the paddle 26 is pulled upwardly, the shaft 27 rotates in the groove 28 and the distal end 31 of the paddle 26 moves downwardly. The distal end 31 of the paddle is located above a gas cylinder lift button 29 and the downward movement of the distal end 31 activates this button 29 which activate the gas lift cylinder 33. This urges the receptacle 12 upwardly although a force can be used to push the receptacle 12 downwardly as with an office chair lift system. When the button 29 is pressed, the cylinder 33 is biased towards a raised or extended position but can be lowered against this biasing force. When the button 29 is released, air is trapped in the cylinder 33 which locks the cylinder against either raising or lowering movement.

As shown in Figure 1,Figure 2 Figure 13 and figure 14, the support shaft or stanchion/stem is in two parts 30, 32 with the first lower part 30 providing a sleeve into which the second upper part 32 can extend from or be retracted into. The lower end of the lower part 30 of the support shaft 22 is secured to the support base 20 and the upper end of the upper part 32 of the support shaft 22 is secured to the joint mechanism 24.

The support base 20 comprises a spoke arrangement with the preferred embodiment of the support base 20 having four spokes 40 extending radially outwardly from a central location. Each spoke 40 may structurally comprise a support spoke 41 which is enclosed and concealed within a cover spoke portion 50. The spokes 40 are arranged to be angularly spaced by 90 degrees such that the spokes 40 effectively provide a footprint in the shape of a cross.

Each spoke 40 has an associated movement member and the movement member comprises a wheel which located at or towards the distal ends of the spokes 40.

In the preferred embodiments, the wheels comprise casters 42 which are supported from a mounting portion provide by each of the supporting spokes 41. In particular, the multifunctional baby unit 10 is arranged to be pushed by a user such that the casters 42 enable the unit 10 to be rolled over and around a floor 18. The casters 42 will automatically become aligned with the direction of travel and this enables the unit 10 to be rolled easily in any direction.

As shown in Figure 13, Figure 14, Figure 15 and Figure 16, the multifunctional baby unit 10 is provided with a braking system in order to safely and securely maintain the stand 14 in a static position. In this position, the casters 42 are prevented from being rotated and the multifunctional baby unit 10 cannot be pushed and rolled around the support surface 18.

The braking mechanism comprises a cover 44 or shroud which is manually moveable between an upper unbraked position and a lower braked position. In the unbraked position, the casters 42 are exposed and the casters 42 are free move over the floor 18. In the braked position, the casters 42 are concealed and a part of the shroud 44 engages with the support surface 18 and/or the casters 42 to prevent the casters 42 from being rolled over the floor 18.

As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2, the cover 44 is arranged to entirely cover the support spokes 41 of the support base 20. In addition, the cover 44 includes a central sleeve section 46 which encompasses a lower section of the lower part 30 of the support stand 14. The cover 44 is able to be moved upwardly relative to the support shaft 22. In the preferred embodiment, the cover 44 includes a foot operated lift-up tab 48 which raises the cover 44 from the casters 42 and thereby releases the safety brake. This enables a user to easily operate the brake without bending down and also enables the user to continue to attend to a baby within the receptacle 12.

The outermost ends of the braking or cover spokes 50 are shaped downwardly towards the floor 18 such that the outermost edges and two side edges are arranged to encompass the respective caster 42. In the lowered braked position, these three edges are arranged to abut and engage with the floor 18. It is this engagement which restricts and prevents the movement of the casters 42.

Alternatively, a part of the braking spokes 50 may directly engage with the caster 42 to prevent movement.

The joint mechanism 24 located at the upper end of the upper part 32 of the support shaft 22 is arranged to removably secure the baby retaining receptacle 12 to the unit 10. As shown in Figure 4 and Figure 5, the joint mechanism 24 also enables the receptacle 12 to be tilted. In particular, the tilt mechanism enables the receptacle 12 to be tilted about a transverse axis such that the receptacle 12 can provide a reclining position. In the reclined position, one longitudinal end 60 of the receptacle 12 may be located higher than opposite longitudinal end 62 of the receptaclel 2.

The tilt mechanism may be provided by a conventional office chair type tilting mechanism which is well known in the art. Such a mechanism may also be used to provide the height adjustable feature as well.

The tilt mechanism may be of particular benefit in providing a safe reclining position for a baby. For example, a reclined position rather than a flat position may be useful in preventing the baby from choking, for example after a feed.

As shown in Figure 6, Figure 7 and Figure 9, the tilt mechanism preferably comprises an office chairs tilt mechanism which is well known and this is simply secured between the stand 14 with the receptacle 12 removably attached to the top. The same conventional office chair mechanism will also provide the height adjustment system.

By way of example only, in one embodiment, the tilt mechanism includes a paddle 88 which is provided with a shaft section 94 which is rotatably located in a groove 96 of a part of the joint. As the paddle 88 is manually pushed downwardly the paddle 88 rotates about the shaft 94 such that two raising elements may engage with a support surface to raise one end of the receptacle to provide a set tilted position.

In another embodiment, the unit 10 can be locked by the paddle 88 to prevent this tilting movement and to hold the receptacle 12 in a set position or angle within a range of movement. The underside of the receptacle 12 is arranged to be tiled by moving over a corresponding shaped bearing surface provided by a housing 90 of the tilt mechanism. This bearing surfaces are shaped to correspond with the lower surface of the receptacle 12 and as the receptacle 12 moves longitudinally over these bearing surfaces the receptacle naturally tilts (inclines or declines). This relative movement provides the tilting function.

In some embodiments, the angle of tilt can be continually adjusted and set within a predefined range. The receptacle is mounted on a mounting member 92 which may provide a pair of lower guide rails. Locking elements may extend radially from a part of the shaft 94 of the paddle 88 and these may disengage with the guide rails. This enables the receptacle 12 to be manually tilted. When the paddle 88 is moved back upwardly, the locking elements may provide an abutment surface against the guide rails which prevents the receptacle 12 being moved relative to the housing.

The housing 90 provides an elongate arcuate slot through which the paddle 88 extends and this enables the paddle 88 to be pushed downwardly and pulled upwardly.

As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2, in order to provide a Moses basket, the multifunctional baby unit 10 is provided with a mattress 38 which is shaped to fit in the base of the receptacle. In this configuration, the baby is safely retained by the walls 16 of the receptacle 12. In addition, the transparent walls 16 enable the parent/carer to be able to view the baby even when the receptacle 12 is in an elevated position.

The mattress 38 is removable such that the shell of the receptacle 12 can provide a baby bath in another configuration. The receptacle 12 is provided with a drainage hole (not shown) to enable liquid to be removed after use. In this configuration, a plug (not shown) is inserted into the drainage hole in order to plug the hole. The plug is designed to be inserted into the drainage hole either from inside the receptacle 12 or from outside the receptacle 12. Similarly, the plug is deigned to be removed form the drainage hole from either the inside or outside of the receptacle 12.

In the bath configuration, the receptacle 12 provides an entirely smooth inner surface with only the drainage hole/plug interrupting the smooth inner surface.

The parent/carer can use a container to carry water from tap to the multitunctional baby unit 10. Alternatively, the receptacle 12 can be removed from the stand 14 and filled with water directly with a tap. Once filled, the receptacle 12 can then be carried back and mounted to the stand 14. In either method, it will be appreciated that the multifunctional baby unit 10 can be moved in order to be as close as practically possible to the water source and it can then be moved to a convenient location where the baby can then be bathed. After bathing, the water can either be drained from the receptacle 12 into a container for disposing of or the receptacle 12 can again be removed form the stand 14 such that the receptacle 12 can be directly emptied down a bath plughole. The removable feature also enables the receptacle 12 to be easily dried and/or moved to a suitable place for drying.

As shown in Figure 17 and Figure 18, the multifunctional baby unit 10 also comprises a lid 70. In one configuration, the lid 70 may provide a support table in order for the multifunctional baby unit 10 to function as a baby changing table. In this configuration, the lid 70 is turned such that a first side 72 is facing upwards.

This side 72 may provide a matting area together with an outer rim or edge area.

The lid 70 has an outer peripheral edge 76 which is sized and shaped to fit within the receptacle wall 16. In particular, the lid 70 will fit within the receptacle 12 at a location spaced from the bottom of the receptacle 12. The circumference of the inner wall of the receptacle 12 effectively reduces from the upper lip 78 or edge.

The peripheral edge 76 of the lid is shaped to pass through the lip 78 of the receptacle 12 and to engage with the sides 16 of the receptacle 12 at a location spaced below the lip 78. The receptacle 12 may provide a ledge or shelf to support the lid 70. In this position, the lid 70 is supported generally around the entire peripheral edge 76. The lid 70 thereby provides a level, horizontal surface on which a baby can be supported. If required, the receptacle 12 can be tilted in order for the lid 70 to provide a flat but inclined/declined support surface.

The lid 70 is reversible such that the lid 70 can either be secured within the receptacle 12 with a first side 72 facing upwards or with a second side 74 facing upwards. As previously described, the first side 72 is used for the multifunctional baby unit 10 to function as a changing table. With the second side 74 of the lid 70 facing upwards, the receptacle 12 is designed to function as a storage container or storage box.

As before, the lid 70 is sized and shaped to fit within the receptacle 12 to a position just below the upper lip 78 of the receptacle 12. The second side 74 of the lid 70 is provided with two handle portions 80 to enable a user to easily lift the lid 70 from the receptacle 12 or to place the lid 70 in the receptacle 12. The receptacle 12 is removable from the stand 14 such that the receptacle 12 can subsequently be used as a storage box and placed in a suitable location.

Since the present invention provides a single unit which effectively replaces a number of different existing units, the present invention provides a saving on the amount of materials used. This has direct cost savings and also significantly reduces the waste which would otherwise be destined for landfill disposal.

Accordingly, the present invention also provides environmental benefits.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A multifunctional baby unit comprising a stand and a removable baby retaining receptacle, the baby retaining receptacle comprising: a wall for containing a baby within the baby retaining receptacle and wherein the wall comprises a light transmitting material, the stand comprising: a support base comprising movement means to enable the multifunctional baby unit to be moved over a support surface and the movement means comprising brake means in order to prevent movement of the multifunctional baby unit over the support surface; and a support shaft extending between the support base and the baby retaining receptacle in order to support the baby retaining receptacle spaced from a support surface, the support shaft having a first end comprising a joint which is arranged to removably retain the baby retaining receptacle and wherein the joint is articulated to enable the receptacle to be orientated in different positions relative to the stand.
2. A multifunctional baby unit according to Claim 1 in which the length of the support shaft is adjustable.
3. A multifunctional baby unit according to Claim 1 or Claim 2 in which the joint enables the baby retaining receptacle to be tilted.
4. A multifunctional baby unit according to any preceding claim in which the baby retaining receptacle is arranged to contain a liquid therein.
5. A multifunctional baby unit according to Claim 4 in which the baby retaining receptacle comprises a liquid outlet and a plug which enables a liquid to be selectively removed or drained from the baby retaining receptacle.

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6. A multifunctional baby unit according to any preceding claim in which the baby retaining receptacle comprises a lid.
7. A multifunctional baby unit according to Claim 6 in which the lid is securable in a first orientation within the baby retaining receptacle in order to provide a changing table and the lid is securable in a second orientation within the baby retaining receptacle in order to provide an enclosed storage box.
8. A multifunctional baby unit according to any preceding claim in which the movement means comprises a plurality of casters and, in which, the casters are pivotally mounted such that the casters will automatically be aligned with the direction of travel.
9. A multifunctional baby unit according to any preceding claim in which the support base comprises a plurality of spokes which may extend outwardly form a second end of the support shaft.
10. A multifunctional baby unit according to Claim 9 in which the support base comprises four spokes which extend outwardly from a second end of the support shaft.
11. A multifunctional baby unit according to Claim 9 or Claim 10 in which each spoke extends from a proximal end located adjacent to the second end of the support shaft to a distal end and, in which, the support base comprises a movement member located at or towards a distal end of each spoke.
12. A multifunctional baby unit according to any preceding claim in which the support base comprise brake means to prevent the multifunctional baby unit being pushed across a support surface on the casters and wherein the brake means comprises support surface engaging means such that the surface engaging means engages with a part of the support surface to prevent the multifunctional -21 -baby unit from being pushed along over the support surface.
13. A multifunctional baby unit according to Claim 12 in which the brake means comprises a shroud which is movable relative to the support surface and wherein the shroud is movable between an upper position where the shroud does not engage the support surface and a lower position where the shroud does engage the support surface.
14. A multifunctional baby unit according to Claim 13 in which the shroud locates over support spokes on which the movement members or casters are mounted and the shroud is movable relative to the support spokes.
15. A multifunctional baby unit according to Claim 14 in which the shroud covers each spoke of the support base, the shroud being mounted around a second end of the support shaft and wherein the shroud is movable mounted around the second end of the support shaft and, in which, the shroud is axially movable along the support shaft.
16. A multifunctional baby unit according to any one of Claim 13 to Claim 15 in which, in the lower position, the shroud visually conceals the movement members or wheels mounted on the spokes.
17. A multifunctional baby unit according to any preceding claim in which the multifunctional baby unit may comprise a detachable seating pod.
18. A multifunctional baby unit according to Claim 17 in which the detachable seating pod is securable to the unit by the joint and the seating pod is tiltable through the joint relative to the support shaft.
19. A multifunctional baby unit according to any preceding claim in which the seating pod is securable in order for the multifunctional baby unit to provide a high chair for a baby.

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20. A multifunctional baby unit according to any preceding claim in which the multifunctional baby unit is reconfigurable to provide a Moses basket, a baby bath, a changing table, a storage box or a high chair.
21. A method of reconfiguring a baby unit, the baby unit comprising a stand and a removable baby retaining receptacle, the baby retaining receptacle comprising: a wall for containing a baby within the baby retaining receptacle and wherein the wall comprises a light transmitting material, the stand comprising: a support base comprising movement means to enable the multifunctional baby unit to be moved over a support surface and the movement means; and a support shaft extending between the support base and the baby retaining receptacle in order to support the baby retaining receptacle spaced from a support surface, the support shaft having a first end comprising a joint which is arranged to removably retain the baby retaining receptacle; the method comprising articulating a joint to orientate the receptacle in different positions relative to the stand, the method further comprising operating brake means to prevent movement of the baby unit over the support surface.
22. A method of reconfiguring a baby unit according to Claim 21 in which the method comprises removing or inserting a mattress into the baby retaining receptacle.
23. A method of reconfiguring a baby unit according to Claim 21 or Claim 22 in which the method comprises securing a lid in the baby retaining receptacle in a first orientation in order to provide a support surface for a baby.
24. A method of reconfiguring a baby unit according to any one of Claim 21 to -23 -Claim 23 in which the method comprises pushing the baby unit over a support surface.
25. A method of reconfiguring a baby unit according to any one of Claim 21 to Claim 24 in which the method comprises applying a brake to prevent the baby unit from being moved over a support surface.
26. A method of reconfiguring a baby unit according to any one of Claim 21 to Claim 25 in which the method comprises tilting the bay retaining receptacle relative to the support shaft.
27. A method of reconfiguring a baby unit according to any one of Claim 21 to Claim 26 in which the method comprises adjusting the length of the support shaft.
28. A method of reconfiguring a baby unit according to any one of Claim 21 to Claim 23 in which the method comprises reconfiguring the unit to provide a Moses basket, a baby bath, a changing table, a storage box or a high chair.
29. A multifunctional baby unit substantially as herein described, with reference to, and as shown in, any of the accompanying Figures.
30. A method of reconfiguring a baby unit substantially as herein described, with reference to, and as shown in, any of the accompanying Figures.