GB2522876A

GB2522876A - An infant Mat

Info

Publication number: GB2522876A
Application number: GB1402079.6A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Genevieve Burton
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2014-02-07
Filing date: 2014-02-07
Publication date: 2015-08-12
Also published as: GB201402079D0

Abstract

An infant changing mat comprising a bed 10, a skirt 20 extending from a proximal end of the bed 10 and an inflatable cell arranged to provide a raised end at a distal end of the bed. The bed 10 may have a waterproof upper face and the skirt 20 may have a textured face. The bed 10 may have an inflatable raised perimeter 80 which extends around three sides of the bed 10. A plurality of inflation points may be provided to inflate separate cells and an integrated pump 50 may be provided. The bed may be provided with storage pockets at its sides. The mat may be foldable and may be used to elevate an infants head to help prevent gastro-oesophageal reflux.

Description

AN INFANT MAT

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a mat for an infant, in particular a mat for changing diapers or nappies of infants or babies; more particularly but not exclusively a portable mat to help prevent reflux.

Background

Reflux is a condition which affects many babies wherein food, generally milk and stomach contents such as stomach acid travel back up from the stomach to the oesophagus or even as far as the mouth due to a weakness in the valve that seals the stomach.

Most infants or babies suffer a degree of reflux as the valve is not formed at full strength from birth therefore when the stomach is full babies can be liable to bring up these contents in varying amounts. This can be undesirable as it can cause the baby and parent/carers to become soiled.

Of particular importance the infant is very liable to feel pain, and in some instances if stomach acid content is too high it can lead to potential damage to the oesophagus.

However, a small percentage of babies have troublesome, severe or persistent reflux (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease).

In order to try and control or prevent reflux it may be necessary to keep the baby in a more upright orientation, as opposed to lying down, in order to keep liquids and/or food down. However this can be difficult as often the child may need to be lain down for changing soon after feeding.

Prior Art

Accordingly a number of patent applications have been filed in an attempt to resolve the problem or similar, including the following: British patent GB9716286 discloses an inflatable wedge shaped support under mattress for infant's mattress.

International patent application W0201008511 discloses an inflatable, wedge-shaped incline mattress that is inexpensive, portable, easily inflated or deflated, and effectively relieves gastric oesophageal reflux disease in adults and infants by elevating the head while lowering the feet relative to the stomach. It also allows for side sleeping, stomach sleeping and rolling over to change sleep positions while still in the head-elevated position.

United States patent application U520080250568 discloses an inflatable pad assembly includes a base member having a top surface and a bottom surface, and an inflatable pad having opposite lateral layers, and a looped surrounding layer interconnecting the lateral layers, cooperating with the lateral layers to define an

inflatable space.

United States patent application U520050155154 discloses a multiple position air mattress system for achieving various support positions includes a first mattress, a second mattress, and a bellows unit attached to the second mattress. The bellows unit is extendable for either elevating the second mattress or providing a support for an individual.

Summary of the Invention

According to the present invention there is provided an infant changing mat comprising a bed with a skirt extending from a proximal end, the mat arranged with at least one inflatable cell which is arranged in use to be inflated to provide a raised end of the bed distal from the skirt.

Proximal and distal are used wherein a proximal position is defined as where the infant's feet are expected to be situated in use. A parent, carer or user may be typically situated at or orthogonal to such end during attendance on the infant.

In some embodiments the at least one cell is arranged peripheral to the bed. In other embodiments the at least one cell is included in the bed, or peripherally situated around the bed's distal end, for example to comprise an inflatable edge, whereas in other embodiments the at least one cell may be centrally located to comprise an inflatable wedge. In this way the bed may comprise a single inflatable cell or space, or may comprise a plurality of inflatable spaces, comprised in cells, arranged adjacent or apart from each other, having plural or singular inflation points.

Advantageously in all preferred embodiments the bed provides a surface elevating or rising in use (that is, after inflation) from the skirt away to the distal end, which elevates an infant's head and minimises problems with reflux for an infant lying thereon.

Preferably such elevation is progressive or continuous, andlor arcuate or curved to form a bed curved, concave or convex in cross-section.

Advantageously therefore the infant's head is raised when using the mat, thereby reducing risk of reflux and consequent discomfort and damage.

Typical embodiments of the mat therefore comprise: a bed adapted or dimensioned for receiving an infant wherein said bed includes at least one inflatable wedged cell arranged primarily to be active to elevate a distal end of the bed suitable for supporting the infant's head at an elevation with respect to the infant's feet, at least, and typically upper body; so as to help prevent infant reflux when the infant is laid down.

Movement of the infant off the mat relative to or onto a subordinate surface like the ground or floor is minimised by weight spread across the bed and onto the relatively thinner skirt, which is pressed against said surface, ensuring that the weight is at a lower balance point and the infant less likely to be dislodged from the bed or topple thereoff. In addition or the alternative the infant's weight on the bed is distributed along a central axis and as consequence is not liable to dislodging therefrom.

Preferably, the bed comprises a single inflatable wedged cell. In some embodiments the cell may comprise multiple compartments for improved strength and to reduce speed of deflation if punctured. In embodiments with a single cell the central axial weight distribution will tend to provide concave curvature and prevent the weight of the infant transferring to peripheral parts.

In other embodiments the bed is slung between inflated peripheral cell or cells in use, so as to form a hammock, less liable to allow displacement of the infant from the bed even where or when rolling, for example in order that the cell(s) or bed provide curved edges where inflated.

Advantageously the edges may serve to prevent the infant from moving from the mat.

For example having thicker material or format or padding, and/or comprising a separate or integral inflated area.

Advantageously the thicker edges, or an inherent bias towards curvature, ensure minimal inflation is necessary for use, meaning easier deployment and consequently greater portability and usage.

In other embodiments the cell or cells comprise a larger proportion of the bed, for example forming an entire inflated wedge leading from the skirt. Such wedge may include multiple cells, having a single or plural inflation point(s).

It is envisaged that the mat may serve to help babies with varying degrees and types of reflux such as gastro-oesophageal reflux and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and silent reflux.

The mat therefore provides a raised portion by means of the bed, edge or wedge which raises the infant's head and upper body so as to prevent reflux resulting in the bringing up of liquid from the stomach, in particular soon after feeding. In this way the infant may be positioned on the mat after feeding and changed or left to be laid down without the risk of bringing up food as the head is arranged higher than the stomach, therefore even due to abnormalities typically due to under development or weaknesses where the oesophagus joins the stomach, liquids remain in the stomach.

Preferably in some embodiments the skirt comprises padding for comfort providing a soft surface upon which the infant may be directly placed without requirement for extra sheets or blankets.

The skirt is ideally formed from, or includes, resiliently deformable material such as cellular structures for example foam. Typically however the skirt is relatively thin for transport and storage purposes.

Preferably the bed is formed in a thin material so as to be lightweight and capable of being rolled or folded when deflated.

Advantageously in this way the mat can be collapsed, folded or rolled for transportation or storage when not in use.

In some embodiments the mat may include grip portions or texture on a lower face to prevent the bed slipping on a surface, for example when placed on the ground, changing area or a table. For example the bed, skirt and/or edge may be coated in anti-slip material such as rubber or may include rubberised portions.

Preferably in some embodiments the skirt comprises an extending area on which a carer or user is able to kneel on the skirt and avoid contact with dirty underlying or subordinate surfaces.

Consequently the skirt may include pimples or raised and lowered parts so as to minimise skirt contact area with a dirty subordinate surface. In further embodiments the skirt in particular, and bed may be provided in perforated material.

In a preferred embodiment the bed may comprise multiple sections, namely a top, middle and bottom section, joined by living hinges or thinner fold points, situated where the adjacent sections join so as to allow the mat to be predisposed to fold at predetermined points for easier transport or storage. The bottom section may comprise the skirt.

In some embodiments the top section may include the inflatable cell(s) and the middle and bottom sections may form the skirt, of the same thickness. Typically when cells are not inflated the top section of the bed may also be the same thickness as the middle and bottom.

Typically the infant mat includes connection means, or connectors, comprising at least one connector for closing and securing the mat in a closed arrangement when folded. For example the connectors may comprise, clips, buckles or hook and loop means such as Velcro (RTM).

Preferably any connection means used on the mat is provided or arranged on upward facing parts of the mat so as not to accumulate dirt or debris from the surface upon which it is placed.

In some embodiments thicker beds may be provided for example for larger/older babies and/or a mat for use in a fixed position, for example in a public baby changing facility.

The bed in some embodiments may comprise storage sections, for example pockets to sides.

Ideally the cell inlet(s) may be arranged to the edges of the mat so as not to interfere with where the infant is laid or where a parent or carer may be tending to the infant, for example preferably the distal edge.

Ideally the mat may have a waterproof outer cover so as to enable it to be readily cleaned after use. This cover may be coloured and/or patterned so as to provide an attractive object for transport purposes.

In some further embodiments the edge may project upwards from the bed so as to provide a raised perimeter which projects from the bed at the same height in all places, for example in embodiments having an inflatable wedge. Ideally in embodiments arranged as an inflated cell edge and hammock bed therebetween the bed may join the edge low proximate the skirt, and consequently continue the skirt height above a subordinate surface with the edge a substantial height thereabove, further minimising the infant's dislocation from the bed. In other embodiments the bed progressively rises relative to the edge towards the distal end, so as to consequently roughly continue the edge height at the end and allow the infant better visibility.

In some embodiments therefore the edges may blend into the wedge, so the edges gradually rise. In other embodiments the edges may form distinct lips.

It may be envisaged that the edge may be linked to the wedge for inflation or may be provided with a separate cell for inflation so that it may be used optionally, in order that a user can inflate the edges and wedge separately In preferred embodiments the bed is substantially rectangular, and may have curved corners or be lozenge-shaped so as to provide a clean, protective surface upon which the infant can be placed, for example whilst being changed, minimising dirt attracting corners or edges.

Preferably the edge extends around three sides of the distal end to pass around the sides and head of the infant in a U-shaped arrangement. In this way a parent or carer can be positioned at the bottom of the bed or skirt whilst tending to the infant without being restricted by the edge.

A parent or carer may also position themselves at the side of the mat and access the infant over an edge, for example if using a changing table where access is only possible from the side whilst tending to the infant without being restricted by the edge. Furthermore as the edge does not fully surround the infant, less air is required to inflate.

In other embodiments the edge may be V-shaped to taper towards the infant's head in use, aiding to position the infant centrally on the mat for optimal safety. For example the tapered raised edge limits movement of the infant, preventing the infant from slipping from the mat.

Preferably in some embodiments mat comprises integrated pumping means so that the cell or cells can be readily inflated, without requirement for separate pumping means or for the cell(s) to be blown up by mouth, being advantageous for hygiene or ease of usage.

Typically the pumping means comprises a manual pump with a hand bulb having at least one valve squeezable to add air into the cell(s) and releasable to allow air to be drawn back into the bulb.

Ideally the pumping means is connected to the inlet on the cell or cells by a tube wherein the pump is fixed to the mat to avoid displacement, and the tube provides a fixed air arrangement of passage to the cell(s).

In preferred embodiments the pump is held within a pocket arranged at the top of the mat when not in use and the tube comprises or leads directly through to the edge.

Alternatively the pump may be held within a pocket on one side of the mat. Therefore the pump is held in a fixed position on the mat. Whilst in some embodiments it may be envisaged that the pump is removed or displaced for use, it may equally be envisaged that the pump is available and arranged for use whilst in the pocket.

In other embodiments the pumping means may comprise a squeezable part.

Such pocket may be provided on a tab or tabbed mat so as to not interfere with the infant or user.

Ideally the pocket includes a securable opening or means of securing the pump within the pocket, for example a displaceable strip, so that the pump can be accessed if required but remains fixed during transportation. For example the pocket may include a displaceable flap for closing.

In preferred embodiments the securable opening or means of securing the pump within the pocket may include hook and loop means such as Velcro (RTM) or push fittings such as poppers.

Preferably the inlet includes a valve to limit escape of air. The valve may comprise a non-return valve or other means of restricting or controlling through-passage of air.

In some embodiments the mat may include only an inlet for inflation by a mouth. In other embodiments the inlet may additionally or alternatively be capable of receiving a separate pump. In preferred embodiments the mat includes more than one inlet, and/or simultaneous or contemporaneous potential for either or both manual or electric inflation.

Preferably the inlet is covered by a flap so as to prevent the inlet that receives the mouth of pump from becoming soiled. In this way this can prevent the inlet from becoming blocked and/or dirty.

Preferably any inlet is arranged on an edge of the mat, the top, sides or bottom, so as not to interfere with the infant and so as to be easily accessible for inflation and deflation.

In preferred embodiments the mat is provided with an attachment point for a lanyard or strap, or eyelet, loop, push fitting such as a popper, so that the mat may be hung when not in use, for example from a push chair.

In preferred embodiments the mat is stored in the closed, deflated arrangement and when required for use is unfolded and inflated using the pump, mouth or other means.

It may be envisaged that the wedge can be provided in different sizes and varying steepness's dependent upon the infant. For example an infant with severe reflux may have a larger steeper wedge so as to raise the infant's head higher.

Typically the wedge may have an elevation angle of 15 -20 degrees for mild reflux sufferers, whereas the angle of the wedge may be increased to 30 degrees for severe reflux sufferers. In some embodiments the angle may be adjusted in use, for example by provision of multiple stacked cells, each having separate inlets, wherein the user is enabled to amend elevation angle by inflation of greater or lesser numbers of cells.

In some other embodiments the mat may be provided with rigid or semi rigid wedge and perimeter so as to be suitable for repeated use in one location, such public toilets or for use at home.

Brief Description of Figures

Figure 1 shows an isometric view of a first embodiment of the mat; Figures 2 show a top and a bottom view of the embodiment of the mat shown in Figure 1; Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of the mat; Figure 4 shows a right side view of the embodiment of the mat shown in Figure 1; Figure 5 shows a left side view of the embodiment of the mat shown in Figure 1; Figure 6 shows a rear view of the embodiment of the mat shown in Figure 1; And Figure 7 shows a front view of the embodiment of the mat shown in Figure 1.

Detailed Description of Figures

With reference to the figures, the mat includes a bed 10, with fold points 15, and a skirt 20. The mat can be folded to a smaller arrangement when not in use for transport and storage.

The bed 10 is formed from a lightweight, resiliently deformable material to provide comfort for the infant. Such material may be plastics or fabric, or fabric covered or coated plastics.

The wedge serves to raise the child's head and torso to prevent reflux, by virtue of an internal cell (not shown) for receiving air.

To one side of the bed there is included an inlet 30 linked to the cell for receiving air to inflate the wedge. The inlet 30 is connected to a tube 40 which joins a pump 50.

The pump 50 is stored in a pocket 60 that is arranged on a tab 70 located on a side of the mat or top. The pocket 60 includes a displaceable strip 65 for securing the pump in the pocket. The tab 70 is arranged on the right hand side of the middle section 12. The tab is folded in before folding the bed so as to be held within the mat when in the stowed arrangement.

Further embodiments include valves for inflation by mouth.

An upper face of the mat includes a raised perimeter 80 that serves to keep the child in position and stops them slipping off the side of the wedge.

The raised perimeter is U-shaped being open at the bottom so as to allow the parent or carer to be positioned on the bottom section or side whilst tending the infant so they can easily reach the child and to reduce the amount of air required for inflation so that inflation is quick.

The mat includes connectors 90 for securing the mat in the closed position when not in use and hanging the closed mat.

The invention has been described by way of examples only and it will be appreciated that variation may be made to the above-mentioned embodiments without departing from the scope of invention. Firstly it will be understood that any features described in relation to any particular embodiment may be featured in combinations with other embodiments.

With respect to the specification therefore, it is to be realised that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention, with variation and implementation obvious and clear on the basis of either common general knowledge or of expert knowledge in the field concerned. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention as set out in the accompanying claims.

Claims

Claims 1. An infant changing mat comprising a bed with a skirt extending from a proximal end, the mat arranged with at least one inflatable cell which is arranged in use to be inflated to provide a raised end of the bed distal from the skirt.
2. A mat according to claim 1 including a waterproof upper face.
3. A mat according to claim 1 or 2 having a textured skirt face.
4. A mat according to any preceding claim wherein an upper face of the bed in use comprises a raised perimeter.
5. A mat according to claim 4 wherein the raised perimeter is inflatable.
6. A mat according to claim 5 wherein the perimeter extends around three sides of the bed.
7. A mat according to any preceding claim wherein the bed comprises at least one separate inflatable cell.
8. A mat according to any of the preceding claims including more than one inflation point.
9. A mat according to any preceding claim including an integrated inflating pump.
10. A mat according to any of claims 1-8 including the steps of: unfolding the base and inflating the cell using an inflation pump.
11. A mat according to any preceding claim wherein the mat is used for changing an infant upon so as to elevate the infant's head higher than their stomach.
12. A mat substantially as described herein with reference to the figures.