GB2615750A - Collapsible carry cot - Google Patents

Abstract

A folding cot for carrying an infant has upper and base members 4, 6. A collapsible framework connects the top member 4 to the bottom member 6. The framework moves between an extended configuration (fig 1B) and a collapsed position (fig 2B), upon movement of the upper member 4 relative to the base 6. The framework has at least one frame portion 8 including a first pair of pivotally coupled arms 18, 20 and a second pair of pivotally attached arms 36, 38. The first pair of rods are hinged to the second pair, such that pivoting the first pair relative to each other causes rotational movement of the second pair and movement of the framework between the deployed and collapsed positions. The arms 18, 20, 36, 38 may be connected to each other by a moving pivot, movable in a lateral or longitudinal dimension.

Description

Collapsible Carry Cot

Field

The present invention relates to a collapsible carry cot for carrying an infant.

Background

Infants, particularly infants between 0-12 months old, are generally laid flat on their backs to sleep and to rest. It is well appreciated that infants require significant amounts of sleep and rest to promote healthy physical and cognitive development, and therefore it is imperative that the infant is provided with a suitable environment to sleep and rest in when required. Moreover, in order to promote proper organ and skeletal development, it is important that infants are placed in this lie-flat position, particularly for spine development. More upright positions, such as a seated position, puts undue strain on the fragile skeleton and organs of the infant, and may lead to developmental abnormalities. Moreover, it is understood that lying infants flat can promote regular and healthy breathing, and can allow the infant to move their limbs freely to explore their environment, and therefore promote cognitive development.

However, it is not always practical to provide means for an infant to lie on their back, particularly when the infant is taken outside of the home environment. For this reason, it is desirable to provide a portable carry cot which the infant can be laid in when outside of the home.

Carry cots are generally large and bulky objects, owing to the need to provide (i) sufficient space for the infant to lie and move in; (ii) adequate shielding to protect the infant from the surrounding environment; and (iii) the need for the carry cot to be structurally stable such that the infant is safe therein. As such, carry cots may comprise large sidewalls and a cover to protect the infant from environmental factors such as dust, wind, cold weather, and the like. Moreover, the carry cot may be provided with a hood to protect the infant from environmental factors such as direct sunlight, the wind, and the like. The structural integrity required of the carry cot may be provided by means of a frame.

For carry cots to be taken outside of the home, it is desirable that the carry cot can be easily transported, stored and assembled when required. In particular, it is desirable that the carry cot can be stored away easily (e.g. in a cupboard, under the stairs, in the boot of a motor vehicle), but may also be readily assembled quickly when required.

It is an object of the present invention to obviate one or more of the above-mentioned problems.

Summary of Invention

The present invention relates to a collapsible carry cot, that is to say a carry cot that can be collapsed from an extended configuration into a collapsed configuration. The collapsed configuration is more compact than the extended configuration. As such, the collapsible carry cot can be folded into a more compact configuration for storage, transportation and the like when not in use. The configuration of the collapsible carry cot suitable for use (i.e. for use when an infant is in the carry cot) is referred to as the extended configuration. The configuration of the collapsible carry cot when not in use, and is folded to be stored or transported, is referred to as the collapsed configuration.

The collapsible carry cot is suitable for carrying an infant, in particular an infant between 0-12 months old at which age it is important that the infant rests and sleeps lying down for the reasons outlined above.

The collapsible carry cot according to the present invention has several advantages over prior art carry cots, as described in more detail below. The collapsible carry cot has a collapsible framework, which advantageously is comprised of a series of pivotally coupled elements which can be readily manufactured. The collapsible framework is configured such that the need for elements of the collapsible framework to be slidably arranged (e.g. slidably arranged relative to each other, or slidably arranged relative to other elements of the collapsible carry cot such as the upper member or base member) is obviated. The absence of slidably arranged elements means the structural integrity of the collapsible carry cot is improved. The collapsible carry cot according to the invention therefore has increased resistance to being inadvertently moved out of an extended configuration. Additionally, where a locking mechanism is provided, the absence of slidably arranged components in the collapsible framework means the locking mechanism locks the collapsible framework in an extended configuration more securely. These advantages, amongst others, are described in more detail below.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a collapsible carry cot for carrying an infant comprising, an upper member, a base member, and a collapsible framework connecting the upper member and the base member, wherein moving the upper member relative to the base member causes the collapsible framework to move between an extended configuration and a collapsed configuration.

The collapsible framework comprises at least one frame portion, the at least one frame portion comprising a first pair of arms pivotally coupled to each other, and a second pair arms pivotally coupled to each other, wherein the arms of the first pair of arms are pivotally coupled to the arms of the second pair of arms, such that pivoting the arms of the first pair of arms relative to each other causes the arms of the second pair of arms to pivot relative to each other and the collapsible framework to move between the extended and collapsed configurations.

The collapsible framework enables the upper member and lower member to move relative to each other. The collapsible framework can readily move between an extended configuration that is suitable for use with the infant, and a collapsed configuration that is suitable for storing and / or transporting the collapsible carry cot. In the collapsed configuration, the collapsible framework is contracted, such that the upper member of the carry cot and the base member of the carry cot are proximate, relative to the extended configuration.

The collapsible framework may be connected to the upper member and the base member by means of fixed pivots. The upper member and the base member may be substantially the same width and length. For example, the upper member and the base member are both generally rectangular in shape wherein said rectangular shapes are of substantially the same width and length. The width and length of the upper and base members are adequate to accommodate and infant.

The upper member and the base member may be substantially aligned. Moving the upper member relative to the base member may cause relative movement therebetween in a vertical axis, the vertical axis being relative to a plane of the base member (and the upper member). Moving the upper member relative to the base member may be substantially without relative movement therebetween in a lateral axis, the lateral axis being relative to a plane of the base member (and the upper member). As such, moving the upper member relative to the base member does not cause the relative positions of the upper member and the base member to change in a lateral axis. In other words, the upper member and the base member remain aligned as the upper member is moved relative to the base member, and their relative positions only change in the vertical axis. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that reference to a vertical axis and a lateral axis is envisaged with reference to the collapsible carry cot being placed on a substantially level surface, such as it would be in use with an infant, but the orientation of the collapsible carry cot may change depending on how to user holds the collapsible carry cot.

The upper member and the base member may contact each other in the collapsed configuration so that the collapsible carry cot is substantially flat. For example, the collapsible framework may be configured to be housed inside the base member in the collapsed configuration. Advantageously, the collapsible carry cot is therefore provided in the most compact form possible.

The arms of the first pair of arms may be pivotally coupled to each other by means of a moving pivot. The arms of the second pair of arms may be pivotally coupled to each other by means of a moving pivot. The arms of the first pair of arms may be pivotally coupled to the arms of the second pair of arms by means of a moving pivot. Advantageously, providing moving pivots within the collapsible framework allows the lateral motion (also referred to as translational motion) and vertical motion required for the collapsible carry cot to move into a collapsed configuration to be accommodated. Advantageously, the moving pivots allows this lateral motion and vertical motion to be accommodated, whilst optionally simultaneously retaining alignment of the upper member and base member. Retaining the alignment of the upper member and base member makes the collapsible carry cot easier to store.

The arms of the first pair of arms may be pivotally coupled to each other by means of a moving pivot, the arms of the second pair of arms may be pivotally coupled to each other by means of a moving pivot, and the first pair of arms may be pivotally coupled to the second pair of arms by means of moving pivots. Each of the moving pivots may be configured to move laterally and vertically with respect to the base member, as the collapsible framework moves between an extended configuration and a collapsed configuration. In other words, the moving pivots have translational motion relative to a fixed position of the base member, but additionally can move closer to and further away from the base member in a vertical axis relative the plane of the base member. Of course, by virtue of the collapsible framework connecting the upper member and base member, the moving pivots also move closer to and further away from the upper member simultaneously.

Advantageously, the combination of fixed pivots and moving pivots accommodates a change in height of the carry cot, as described in more detail below. Additionally, the combination of fixed pivots and moving pivots obviates the need for other components of the collapsible framework to be slidably arranged relative to the upper member and / or the base member. Moreover, the need for components of the collapsible framework per se to be slidably arranged relative to each other is also obviated. As such, the collapsible framework provided in the collapsible carry cot according to the invention provides a framework which can be readily manufactured and which additionally avoids the need for multiple moving (e.g. slidably arranged) components. The collapsible carry cot according to the present invention may be provided with a collapsible framework that is free of sliding components. As such, none of the collapsible framework's elements (e.g. first pair of arms and the second pair of arms) are slidably arranged with respect to each other. The collapsible framework's connection to the upper member and the base member may not be slidably arranged. In essence, none of the collapsible framework's elements (e.g. first pair of arms and the second pair of arms) are slidably coupled to the upper member or to the base member.

Moving the upper member relative to the base member may cause the arms of the second pair of arms to move laterally and vertically with respect to the base member and the upper member. Moving the upper member relative to the base member may cause the arms of the first pair of arms to move relative to each other, the arms of the second pair of arms to move relative to each other, and cause the first and second pairs of arms to move laterally and vertically with respect to the base member and the upper member.

The arms of the first pair of arms may be pivotally coupled by a moving pivot in a central portion of each arm. The position of the pivot coupling between each arm of the first pair of arms, in part, may determine the final height of the extended configuration, and the final position of the collapsed configuration. Each arm in the first pair of arms may be pivotally coupled to a different arm comprised in the second pair of arms by means of a moving pivot.

The first pair of arms may comprise a first arm and a second arm, and the second pair of arms may comprise a third arm and a fourth arm. The first arm may be pivotally connected to the base member by means of a fixed pivot. The first arm may be connected to the base member and may be configured to collapse towards the base member when moving from an extended configuration to a collapsed configuration. Similarly, the second arm may be pivotally connected to the upper member by means of a fixed pivot. The second arm may be connected to the upper member and may be configured to collapse towards the base member when moving from an extended configuration to a collapsed configuration. In normal use, the base member and upper members remain substantially stationary relative to the collapsible framework, and so the pivot points joining the base member and the first arm, and the upper member and second arm, are thereby fixed pivots.

The first arm and second arm may be pivotally coupled by means of a moving pivot, the first arm may be pivotally coupled to the base member by means of a fixed pivot, and the second arm may be pivotally connected to the upper member by means of a fixed pivot. The first arm and the second arm may be pivotally connected, preferably in a central region of the first arm and a central region of the second arm. The first and second arms may be in an X-(cross-like) configuration. The arms may cross at any point along a position between the first ends of the second ends of the first and second arms respectively. The pivot between the first arm and second arm may be provided off-centre relative to the lengths of the arms. That is to say the off-centre position is one which is not equidistant between the first end and the second end of the first arms and second arms respectively. Advantageously, the off-centre pivot position between the first arm and second arm cause the pivot to move both vertically and laterally relative to the base member when moving from an extended configuration to a collapsed configuration On this instance downwardly and laterally). This may further effect movement of other elements in the collapsible framework as described in more detail below.

The first arm and the third arm may be pivotally coupled, and the second arm and the fourth arm may be pivotally coupled. The first arm and the third arm may be pivotally connected by means of a moving pivot. The second arm and the fourth arm may be pivotally connected by means of a moving pivot. The pivot between the first arm and third arm may be provided in a central-region of the third arm, and the pivot between the second arm and the fourth arm may be provided in a central-region of the fourth arm. A central-region is a position between the first and second ends of the arm.

Advantageously, the first arm causes the third arm to move relative to the base member, and the second arm causes the fourth arm to move relative to the base member, when moving from an extended configuration to a collapsed configuration.

The third arm and the fourth arm may be pivotally coupled by means of a moving pivot.

The third arm may be pivotally connected to the upper member, preferably by means of a fixed pivot. The fourth arm may be pivotally connected to the base member, preferably by means of fixed pivot. The third arm and fourth arm may be pivotally coupled by means of a moving pivot, the third arm may be pivotally coupled to the upper member by means of a fixed pivot, and the fourth arm may be pivotally connected to the base member by means of a fixed pivot. Advantageously, the first arm causes the third arm to move relative to the base member, and the second arm causes the fourth arm to move relative to the base member, such that the third arm and the fourth arm are caused to pivot relative to each other when moving from an extended configuration to a collapsed configuration.

The first and fourth arms may be each independently pivotally coupled to the base member by means of fixed pivots, and the second and third arms may be each independently pivotally coupled to the upper member by means of fixed pivots. It will be appreciated that the upper member and the base member will translate during the collapsing of the carry cot and again when the carry cot is extended again. As such, there will be translational motion of the relative positions of pivots connecting the first and fourth arms to the base member, and the second and third arms to the upper members, but the pivot points will not translate relative to the respective member to which the arms are attached.

The first and fourth arms may be each independently pivotally coupled to the base member by means of fixed pivots, the second and third arms may be each independently pivotally coupled to the upper member by means of fixed pivots, the third arm and fourth arm are pivotally coupled by means of a moving pivot, the third arm is pivotally coupled to the first arm by means of a moving pivot, and the fourth arm is pivotally connected to the second arm by means of a moving pivot.

The first arm and fourth arms may be configured, and the second arm and third arms may be configured, such that they are always engaged with the base member and upper member respectively in normal use. The first and second arms may be configured, such that they are always pivotally coupled to each other during normal use. The third and fourth arms may be configured, such that they are always pivotally coupled to each other during normal use. The first and third arms may be configured, such that they are always pivotally coupled to each other during normal use. The second and fourth arms may be configured, such that they are always pivotally coupled to each other during normal use. It will be appreciated that normal use does not include dismantling for repair. Normal use included extending and collapsing the carry cot in addition to performing its function of carry an infant. In existing carry cots, the arms may disengage from one another and/or from the base member in order to collapse or extend. This increases the complexity of the mechanism and potentially some fabric or other loose material could inhibit the arms and/or base from re-engaging.

The first arm and the second arm each have a first end and a second end. The first end of the first arm may be pivotally connected to the base member. The first end of the second arm may be pivotally connected to the upper member. The second end of the first arm may be pivotally coupled to the third arm, optionally pivotally coupled in a position that is in a central-region of the third arm. The second end of the second arm may be pivotally connected to the fourth arm, optionally pivotally coupled in a position that is in a central-region of the fourth arm.

The third arm and the fourth arm each have a first end and a second end. The first end of the third arm may be pivotally connected to the upper member. The first end of the fourth arm may be pivotally connected to the base member. The second end of the third arm may be pivotally connected to the second end of the fourth arm.

Pivoting the first arm and second arm relative to each other, pivoting the first arm and the third arm relative to each other, pivoting the second arm and fourth arm relative to each other, and pivoting the third arm and fourth arm relative to each other, may cause the framework to move between the extended configuration and the collapsed configuration.

In existing carry cots, at least one of the arms comprised in the collapsible framework is slidably attached to the base member (e.g. the first arm). This results in the release mechanism that allows the arms to slide along the base member being located on the bottom of the base of the carry cot, which is inconvenient for the user to operate and may result in the user turning the carry cot over causing any toys or furnishings therein to fall out. As described above, the first and fourth arms, and the second and third arms, may be pivotally coupled to the base member and upper member respectively by means of fixed pivots. This provides for an improved and simpler connection between the collapsible framework, the upper member, and the base member.

As described above, the third arm and fourth arm, the first arm and third arm, and the second arm and fourth arm, may be pivotally coupled by means of moving pivots. Advantageously, this arrangement means the lateral motion and vertical motion of the collapsible framework required to move into a collapsed configuration is accommodated by the moving pivots within the collapsible framework.

By controlling the extent to which pivotally coupled arms can move relative to each other, the height of the collapsible carry cot can be adjusted. Additionally, controlling the lengths of the arms comprised in the first frame portion (and second frame portion) can also contribute to adjusting the height of the collapsible framework. In other words, the lengths of the arms and positions of the moving pivots, controls the distance between the upper member and the base member in the collapsed configuration and in the extended configuration. As such, the greater the length of the arms, the greater the distance between the upper and base members that may be accommodated as they move relative to one another. The relative movement of the upper member and base member may also be limited by one or more other elements meeting / abutting one another.

The collapsible framework according to the present invention can accommodate the lateral motion and vertical motion required to allow the collapsible framework to collapse by using components that may be readily manufactured to desired specifications (e.g. desired height of the carry cot). The present invention therefore reduces manufacturing costs and avoids the need for complicated tooling processes.

The collapsible carry cot further may comprise at least one releasable locking mechanism configured to lock the at least one frame portion in position when the framework is in the extended configuration; and to release the at least one frame portion such that the framework can move from the extended configuration to the collapsed configuration. The at least one releasable locking mechanism is preferably located on the upper member. The at least one releasable locking mechanism is preferably located elsewhere than the base member.

Advantageously, the collapsible carry cot according to the present invention can be readily moved from a collapsed configuration to an extended configuration, optionally using only a single hand if desired. This is achieved by means of the combination of the collapsible framework, and the at least one releasable locking mechanism. The user can simply pull upwardly on the upper member (or optionally a handle attached to the upper member) to move from the collapsed configuration to the extended configuration, and the at least one releasable locking mechanism will automatically secure the collapsible framework in the extended configuration, without the need for the user to manually engage the locking mechanism. Alternatively, the user could simply allow the base member to drop downwardly e.g. under the influence of gravity.

The at least one releasable locking mechanism may comprise at least one locking member and at least one locking release, wherein actuation of the at least one locking release causes the at least one locking member to move from a locking position to a releasing position, such that the framework can move from the extended configuration to the collapsed configuration. The locking release member may comprise a button.

The locking release may be provided on an underside surface of the upper member which is advantageously a position that is accessible to the user, but is shielded from inadvertent actuation by the upper member.

Advantageously, the at least one releasable locking mechanism is readily releasable by means of actuating a locking release e.g. a button. The combination of the collapsible framework according to the present invention, and the releasable locking mechanism, means that the locking release is provided in a readily accessible area of the collapsible carry cot (e.g. on the upper member). The user can therefore conveniently cause the collapsible carry cot to be moved into the collapsed configuration.

The at least one locking member may be biased towards the locking position, optionally by means of a resiliently deformable member, such as a spring. The at least one locking member may be slidably arranged relative to the upper member to allow the locking member to move between the locking position and the releasing position. The upper member may comprise an elongated aperture, which receives a protrusion extending from the locking member, such that the locking member is slidably arranged in the elongated aperture. The locking member may be slidable in a direction that is orthogonal to the direction of relative movement between the upper member and the base member as the framework moves between extended and collapsed configurations.

The locking release may be connected to the at least one locking member by means of a connecting member, such that actuation of the locking release causes lateral movement the locking member. The upper member may be hollow and the connecting member is concealed inside the upper member. The connected member may connect the locking release to the locking member via a resiliently deformable member (e.g. a spring). The resiliently deformable member may be fixed to the locking member.

The at least one releasable locking mechanism may comprise at least one locking member housing, wherein the at least one locking member, and optionally the resiliently deformable member, is positioned within the at least one locking member housing, the locking member housing being connected to the upper member. The locking member may be positioned inside the locking member housing, such that it is positioned between the locking member housing and a surface (e.g. inside surface / inwardly facing surface) of the upper member.

The at least one locking member may comprise a lip for engaging with the at least one frame portion to lock the collapsible framework in an extended configuration. One of the second pair of arms (e.g the third arm) may engage with the at least one locking member to lock the collapsible framework in an extended configuration.

The third arm may comprise a protrusion for engaging with at least one locking member in the locking position (and therefore the extended configuration of the collapsible framework). The at least one locking member may comprise a lip for engaging with the protrusion, wherein the shape of the lip and the protrusion are complimentary. The protrusion may comprise a leading edge and an engaging edge, wherein the engaging edge engages with the lip of the at least one locking member. The leading edge of the protrusion is preferably shaped such that the at least one locking member slides relative to the protrusion when the leading edge and the at least one locking member are engaged. For instance, the leading edge of the protrusion may be curved. The protrusion may be a latch or hook, optionally a pawl. As the collapsible framework moves from a collapsed position to an extended position, a leading edge of the protrusion may contact the locking member causing the locking member to be urged from the locking position into the releasing position thereby allowing the protrusion to pass the locking member; and the locking member may therefore be biased back to the locking position causes the locking member to engage with an engaging edge of the protrusion, thereby locking the framework in a fully extended position.

In use, as the collapsible framework moves from a collapsed position to an extended position, a leading edge of the protrusion may contact the locking member causing the locking member to be urged from the locking position into the releasing position thereby allowing the protrusion to pass the locking member; and the locking member may therefore be biased back to the locking position causing the locking member to engage with an engaging edge of the protrusion, thereby locking the collapsible framework in a fully extended position.

The first pair of arms may comprise a first arm and a second arm, the second pair of arms may comprise a third arm and a fourth arm, wherein the first arm and second arm are pivotally coupled by means of a moving pivot, the first arm is pivotally coupled to the base member by means of a fixed pivot, the second arm is pivotally connected to the upper member by means of a fixed pivot, the third arm and fourth arm are pivotally coupled by means of a moving pivot, the third arm is pivotally coupled to the upper member by means of a fixed pivot, and the fourth arm is pivotally connected to the base member by means of a fixed pivot; and the collapsible carry cot further comprises at least one releasable locking mechanism, as defined herein. The locking mechanism may comprise at least one locking member and at least one locking release wherein actuation of the at least one locking release causes the at least one locking member to move from a locking position to a releasing position, such that the framework can move from the extended configuration to the collapsed configuration, wherein the at least one locking member comprises a lip for engaging with a protrusion of the third arm in the locking position.

The collapsible carry cot may comprise a first frame portion and second frame portion, wherein the second frame portion is arranged opposite to and aligned relative to the first frame portion. The first frame portion and second frame portion may be identical and are arranged symmetrically. At least a portion of the first frame portion and the second frame portion may be integral with one another -for instance, an arm of the first pair of arms in the first frame portion may be integrally formed with an arm of the first pair of arms in the second frame portion. Similarly, an arm in the second pair of arms may be integrally formed with an arm of the second pair of arms in the second frame portion. As such, the portion connecting the arms to provide the integral connection may traverse across the base member.

The collapsible carry cot may comprise a first frame portion and a second frame portion, a first releasable locking mechanism configured to lock the first frame portion in position when the framework is in the extended configuration; and to release the first frame portion such that the framework can move from the extended configuration to the collapsed configuration, and a second releasable locking mechanism configured to lock the second frame portion in position when the framework is in the extended configuration; and to release the second frame portion such that the framework can move from the extended configuration to the collapsed configuration.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a collapsible carry cot for carrying an infant comprising an upper member and a base member; a collapsible framework connecting the upper member and the base member, the collapsible framework being configured to move between an extended configuration and a collapsed configuration, such that the upper member and base member to move relative to each other, wherein the collapsible framework comprises at least one frame portion; and at least one releasable locking mechanism configured to lock the at least one frame portion in position when the framework is in the extended configuration; and to release the at least one frame portion such that the framework can move from the extended configuration to the collapsed configuration, wherein optionally the collapsible framework is as defined in relation to the first aspect of the present invention, and optionally the at least one releasable locking mechanism is as defined in relation to the first aspect of the present invention.

Brief Description of Figures

The present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying figures in which: Figure 1 illustrates a collapsible carry cot according to the present invention in an extended configuration. Figure 1A provides a front-side view, and Figure 1B provides a cross-sectional side view of Figure 1A.

Figure 2 illustrates a collapsible carry cot according to the present invention in a collapsed configuration. Figure 2A provides a front-side view and Figure 2B provides a cross-sectional side view of Figure 2A.

Figure 3 is a side view of a collapsible framework in accordance with the present invention. Figure 3A illustrates an extended configuration. Figure 3B illustrates a collapsed configuration.

Figure 4 is a partial elevated side view of a collapsible framework in accordance with the present invention. Figure 4A illustrates the pivotable connections between the arms comprised in the collapsible framework. Figure 4B illustrates an expanded section of the bottom right hand side of Figure 4A. In particular, Figure 4B illustrates a pivotable connection between the fourth arm and the base member.

Figure 5 illustrates a releasable locking mechanism in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 6 is an exploded view of the releasable locking mechanism illustrated in Figure 5.

Figure 7 is a side view of a collapsible framework and releasable locking mechanism in accordance with the present invention. Figure 7A illustrates the releasable locking mechanism in a locked position to engage with the collapsible framework, to lock said framework in an extended configuration. Figure 7B illustrates the releasable locking mechanism in a position that releases the collapsible framework, allowing the upper member to move relative to the base member.

Figure 8 is a detailed side view of the releasable locking mechanism shown in Figure 7. Figure 8A shows the releasable locking mechanism in a locking position. Figure 8B shows the releasable locking mechanism in an intermediate position between the locking position and a releasing position. Figure 80 shows the releasable locking mechanism in a releasing position.

Figure 9 is a side view of a collapsible framework and releasable locking mechanism in accordance with the present invention. Figure 9A illustrates the releasable locking mechanism in a released position. Figure 9B illustrates the releasable locking mechanism in a locked position to engage with the collapsible framework, to lock said framework in an extended configuration (as also shown in Figure 7A).

Figure 10 is a detailed side view of the releasable locking mechanism shown in Figure 9. Figure 10A shows the releasable locking mechanism in an intermediate position between the locking position and a releasing position. Figure 103 shows the releasable locking mechanism in a locking position.

Detailed Description

The present invention will now be described in detail, by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings. The scope of protection is defined in the appended claims Defintions As used herein, the term pivotally coupled means there is direct coupling between the elements that are pivotally coupled. In essence, for a pair of elements that are pivotally coupled, each element is coupled directly to the other element by at least one pivot.

Directly means there is direct physical contact between the elements, without an intermediate element.

As described herein, in fixed and moving pivots, each of the pivotally coupled elements (i.e. a first element and a second element) only move relative to each other by means of a pivoting motion. The relative positions of each of the pivotally coupled elements does not change other than by means of pivoting because there is no lateral or longitudinal movement therebetween. Pivoting motion will be understood by those skilled in the art to include turning, oscillating or rotational motion. Each of the pivotally coupled elements (i.e. a first element and a second element) are not pivotally and slidably coupled to each other i.e. there is no slidable motion between the pivotally coupled elements.

As used herein, a fixed pivot means a location about which pivotally coupled elements pivot relative to each other, but the position of the fixed pivot itself does not change (i.e. the fixed pivot's position does not move). Put in other words, the fixed pivot itself does not move longitudinally, laterally or slide as the pivotally connected elements move relative to each other. Advantageously, connecting the upper member, collapsible framework, and base member by means of fixed pivots obviates the need for moving components between the collapsible framework and the upper and lower members.

As used herein, a moving pivot means a location about which pivotally coupled elements pivot relative to each other, and position of the moving pivot itself changes as the pivotally coupled elements pivot relative to each other. Put in other words, the moving pivot itself may move longitudinally and / or laterally from a starting position to a finishing position, as the pivotally connected elements move relative to each other.

Advantageously, providing a combination of fixed pivots and moving pivots in the collapsible framework of the present invention means that lateral movement required for the carry cot to collapse can be effected without the need for more complicated moving components (e.g. components which are slidably arranged in the collapsible framework), as described in more detail below.

As used herein, slidably coupled or slidably arranged means that an element can move relative to another element in a sliding motion. Put in other words, lateral movement between the slidably coupled elements is effected by a sliding motion.

Collapsible Carry Cot The present invention provides a collapsible carry cot 2 for carrying an infant (Figure 1, Figure 2). Those skilled in the art will appreciate that collapsible carry cots are capable of being converted from a functional configuration suitable for use with an infant, into a more compact form, allowing said carry cot to be stored more easily. As such, the collapsible carry cot 2 according to the present invention has an extended configuration (Figures 1A, 1B, 33, 7A, 7B and 9B) suitable for use with an infant, and a collapsed configuration (Figures 2A, 2B, 3B and 9A) suitable for storage and / or transport of said carry cot. Those skilled in the art will further appreciate that the collapsible carry cot 2 according to the present invention may have a plurality of intermediate configurations as the collapsible carry cot moves between the extended and collapsed configurations. The extended configuration as described herein can therefore be considered to be a configuration suitable for use with an infant wherein the collapsible framework is secured (e.g. locked) in the extended configuration. The collapsed configuration can be considered to be a configuration wherein the upper member 4 and base member 6 are in the closest proximity permitted by the configuration of the collapsible framework (also referred to as the 'fully' collapsed configuration). In intermediate configurations the collapsible framework is not secured (e.g. locked) and so relative movement between the upper member 4 and base member 6 is permitted.

Within the context of the present invention, an infant is typically from 0-18 months, more particularly from 0-12 months, and more particularly still 0-6 months old. The collapsible carry cot is provided with a base member upon which the child can be laid flat upon. As described in detail above, it is important for infants of this age to be laid flat to assist in their physical and cognitive development.

The collapsible carry cot comprises an upper member 4 and a base member 6 (Figure 1). The upper member 4 is generally rectangular in shape to provide opposing longitudinal sides which are longer than adjacent lateral sides, although not particularly limited to this shape. The upper member 4 may be hollow, so as to advantageously reduce the overall weight of the carry cot. The base member 6 is also generally rectangular in shape, although not particularly limited to this shape, and generally corresponds to the shape of the upper member 4. The base member 6 comprises upstanding sidewalls extending upwardly from the periphery of the base member 6. As such, the base member may comprise a recess, into which textiles, foams, fabrics (e.g. a mattress) and the like may be inserted to provide comfort to and support the infant. A flexible material (not shown) may be also be provided between the upper member and base member, which can fold and/or stretch to accommodate the relative movement of the upper member and the base member. The flexible material can enclose the collapsible framework and other mechanisms comprised in the present invention (e.g. a double walled curtain to enclose the collapsible framework therein may be provided), which advantageously screens the moving components of the collapsible carry cot from the user therefore avoiding injury. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the size of the upper member 4 and the lower member 6 should reflect the size of an infant, and at the same time provide an adequate amount of room for growth of the infant.

The upper member 4 and the base member 6 are connected by means of a collapsible framework 7. The collapsible framework comprises a first frame portion 8 and a second frame portion 8'. The first frame portion 8 and second frame portion 8' are arranged on opposing sides of the upper member 4 and base member 6, such that they are opposite each other. Typically, the first frame portion 8 and second frame portion 8' are arranged on opposing longitudinal sides of the upper member 4 and base member 6 (Figure 1). In particular, the first frame portion 8 and the second frame portion 8' are aligned with each other. By being aligned, the pivots of the first frame portion 8 and the second frame portion 8' are arranged such that a corresponding notional axis of rotation is provided between each pivot in the first frame portion 8 and a corresponding opposing and aligned pivot in the second frame portion 8'. This arrangement allows the collapsible framework to freely move between an extended configuration, and a collapsed configuration, as described in more detail below.

Generally, the first frame portion 8 and the second frame portion 8' are identical. The first frame portion 8 and the second frame portion 8' may be arranged such that the first frame portion 8 is a mirror image of the second frame portion 8' along a plane in the longitudinal axis of the carry cot that bisects the upper member and the base member (Figure 1A). In other words, the first frame portion 8 and the second frame portion 8' may be arranged symmetrically. As such, for the sake of brevity, only the first frame portion 8 is described in significant detail below. Those skilled in the art however will appreciate that the description of the first frame portion 8 applies equally to the second frame portion 8'.

The collapsible carry cot further comprises a handle 10 (Figure 1, Figure 2), which is pivotally connected to the upper member 4 by means of pivot 12 which allows the handle to pivot relative to the upper member by 1800. The handle 10 and pivot 12 comprises a handle locking mechanism 22 (Figure 5) which allows the position of the handle 10 to be fixed relative to the upper member 4. The handle 10 comprises a handle locking release 14, which when actuated, releases the handle locking mechanism 22 and allows the handle 10 to pivot about pivot 12 relative to the upper member 4. Those skilled in the art will appreciate suitable handle locking mechanisms for use with the handle include, for example a gear based system. The handle locking mechanism 22 may be housed in a portion of release member 50 (Figure 5), but operates separately to the releasable locking mechanism 16 described in more detail below. The user may use the handle 10 to impart force to the upper member when moving the collapsible framework between the collapsed configuration and the extended configuration. It will be appreciated that the present invention is not particularly limited by the handle 10 or its relationship with the remainder of the carry cot.

The collapsible carry cot 2 further comprises a releasable locking mechanism 16, configured to lock the first frame portion 8 in position when the collapsible framework is in the extended configuration that is suitable for carrying an infant. The releasable locking mechanism 16 is also configured to release the first frame portion 8 such that the collapsible framework can move from the extended configuration to the collapsed configuration that is suitable for storage and transport. The collapsible carry cot 2 is further provided with a second releasable locking mechanism 16' configured to lock the second frame portion 8' in the extended configuration and to release the second frame portion 8' to move to the collapsed configuration. As the second releasable locking mechanism 16' operates in an identical manner to the releasable locking mechanism 16, only releasable locking mechanism 16 is described in detail below, but those skilled in the art will appreciate that the description of releasable locking mechanism 16 provided herein applies equally to second releasable locking mechanism 16'.

In the extended configuration (Figure 1), the distance between the upper member 4 and the base member 6 is determined by the extensibility (i.e. the distance by which the collapsible framework is capable of extending) of the collapsible framework 7.

Similarly, in the collapsed configuration (Figure 2), the distance between the upper member 4 and the base member 6 is determined by the collapsibility (i.e. the distance by which the collapsible framework is capable of collapsing) of the collapsible framework, as described in more detail below (Figure 3, Figure 4). As described in more detail below, the collapsibility and extensibility is determined by factors including the positions of pivots comprised in the collapsible framework, and the lengths of arms comprised in the collapsible framework.

Collapsible Framework Each of the first 8 and second 8' frame portions comprise a first arm 18, 18' and a second arm 20, 20'. The first arm 18 and the second arm 20 are pivotally coupled to each other. In part, moving the first arm 18 relative to the second arm causes the framework to move between the extended configuration (Figure 3A) and the collapsed configuration (Figure 38). The first arm 18 has a first end 18A and a second end 188. Similarly, the second arm 18 has a first end 20A and a second end 20B. As mentioned above, the first arm and the second arm are generally identical. The first end 18A of the first arm 18 is pivotally connected to the base member 6 by means of a fixed pivot (Figure 3A, Figure 5). In other words, the first arm 18 is not slidably connected to the base member 6 and does not move relative to the base member 6 as a consequence of pivoting. Similarly, the first end 20A of the second arm 20 is pivotally connected to the upper member 4 by means of a fixed pivot (Figure 3A, Figure 5). Similarly, the second arm 20 is not slidably connected to the upper member 4 and does not move relative to the upper member 6 as a consequence of pivoting. The fixed pivot that pivotally couples the upper member 4 and the first end 20A of the second arm 20 may be via a housing member 23. The housing member 23 may be attached to the upper member 4 by any suitable means such as screws, rivets, adhesive and the like. Means of pivotally connecting the first end 20A of the second arm 20, and the housing member 23 will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Alternatively, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the second arm 18 may be pivotally connected to the upper member 4 directly, or via an alternative intermediate member other than the housing 23 of the releasable locking mechanism.

Each of the first and second frame portions 8, 8' further comprise a third arm 36 and a fourth arm 38. The third arm 36 and the fourth arm 38 of the first frame portion 8 are generally identical to the third arm 36' and the fourth arm 38' of the second frame portion 8', and so only the first frame portion 8 is described. The first frame portion comprises a third arm 36 and a fourth arm 38.

The first arm 18 and the second arm 20 are pivotally coupled by means of a moving pivot 24. The first arm 18 and the second arm 20 are arranged in a cross-like formation. The pivot 24 between the first arm 18 and the second arm 20 is generally in a central region of the arm between the first ends 18A, 20A and the second ends 18B, 20B. The pivot 24 is off-centre, that is to say is not provided at a point equidistant between first ends 18A, 20A and second ends 18B, 20B. In part, this off-centre pivot means that the upper member 4 and base member 6 may remain aligned as the collapsible framework moves between an extended and collapsed configuration.

The first end 18A of the first arm 18 may comprise an elbow portion 32A over which pivot securing member 30A is secured in position as described in more detail below (Figure 4A, Figure 4B). Similarly, the first end 38A of the fourth arm 38 may comprise an elbow portion 32B over which pivot securing member 30B is secured. Taking the first end 38A of the fourth arm 38 as an example (Figure 4B), the fourth arm 38 may comprise a generally circular cross section, and the elbow portion 32B comprises the same generally circular cross section. The pivot securing member 30B comprises a recess with a complimentary shape to the cross section of the fourth arm 38 and the elbow portion 32B. The pivot securing member 30B is fixedly secured to the base member 6 (dashed lines) by suitable means that will be apparent to those skilled in the art, such as screws, rivets, adhesive and the like. An analogous arrangement providing a fixed pivot is provided at the first end 18A of the first arm 18, in which pivot securing member 30A is provided (Figure 4A). In a first frame portion 8 of the collapsible framework, the first end 18A of the first arm 18 may be connected to an intermediate member 34A via the elbow portion 32A (Figure 4). Similarly, the first end 38A of the fourth arm 38 may be connected to an intermediate member 34B via the elbow portion 32B. Intermediate members 34A and 34B may each be accommodated in recesses provided in the base member, which allow the intermediate members 34A, 34B to freely rotate therein as the first and fourth arms pivot relative to the base member 6.

Intermediate members 34A, 34B may in turn be connected to the second portion 8' of the collapsible framework. In other words, intermediate member 34A may connect the first end 18A of the first arm 18 comprised in the first frame portion 8 to a first end 18A' of the first arm 18' in the second frame portion 8' (Figure 1, Figure 4). Similarly intermediate member 34B may connect the first end 38A of the fourth arm 38 comprised in the first frame portion 8 to a first end 38A' of the fourth arm 38' in the second frame portion 8'. Advantageously, this arrangement can provide the collapsible framework with additional structural integrity. The intermediate members 34A, 34B may be connected to the first and fourth arms respectively using methods apparent to those skilled in the art, such as but not limited to snap-fit arrangements.

In instances, the first arm 18 of the first frame portion 8, the intermediate member 34A, and the first arm 18' of the second frame portion 8' are integrally formed. Similarly, the fourth arm 38 of the first frame portion 8, the intermediate member 34B, and the fourth arm 38' of the second frame portion 8' may be integrally formed. The first arms 18, 18' and the intermediate portion 34A may be integrally formed to provide a first U-shape member comprised in the collapsible framework. Similarly, the fourth arms 38, 38' and the intermediate portion 34B may be integrally formed as a second U-shape member comprised in the collapsible framework. Advantageously integrally formed first and / or second U-shaped members may provide the collapsible framework with yet further improved stability and strength.

The third arm 36 is pivotally connected to the first arm 18. The third arm 36 has a first end 36A which is pivotally connected to the upper member 4 (Figure 3A). The third arm 36 has a second end 36B which is pivotally connected to a second end 38B of the fourth arm 38 (Figure 3A). The second end 18B of the first arm 18 is pivotally coupled to the third arm 36 in a central region of the third arm 36, between first end 36A and second end 36B of the third arm 36. Preferably, the first arm 18 is coupled to the third arm 36 in an off-centre portion of the third arm, and preferably at a portion of the third arm closer to the upper member 4, that is to say closer to first end 36A than the second end 36B of the third arm 36.

The third arm 36 further comprises a protrusion 40 (Figure 3A). The protrusion is configured to operate with the releasable locking mechanism as described in more detail below to secure the collapsible carry cot in an expanded configuration. The protrusion 40 comprises a leading edge 40A, and an engaging edge 40B (Figure 3B), the purpose of which is described in more detail below in relation to the releasable locking mechanism 16. The protrusion 40 may be in the form of a latch. In the illustrated embodiments, the protrusion 40 is provided as a pawl.

The second end 368 of the third arm 36 is pivotally connected to the upper member 4 via housing 58 of the releasable locking mechanism 16 (Figure 6), which is described in more detail below. The pivotal connection between the third arm 36 and the housing 58 is by means of a fixed pivot. Alternatively, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the third arm 36 may be pivotally connected to the upper member 4 directly, or via an alternative intermediate member other than the housing 58 of the releasable locking mechanism.

The fourth arm 38 is pivotally coupled to the second arm 20. The fourth arm 38 has a first end 38A which is pivotally connected to the base member 6 (Figure 3A). The fourth arm 38 has a second end 38B which is pivotally connected to the second end 36B of the third arm 36 (Figure 3A). The second end 208 of the second arm 20 is pivotally coupled to the fourth arm 38 in a central region of the fourth arm 38, between first end 38A and second end 38B of the fourth arm 38. Preferably, the second arm 20 is coupled to the fourth arm 38 in an off-centre portion of the fourth arm 38, and preferably at a portion of the fourth arm 38 closer to the base member 6, that is to say closer to first end 38A than the second end 38B of the fourth arm 38.

Generally speaking, lateral motion and vertical motion in the collapsible framework (which allows relative movement between the upper member 4 and base member 6) is achieved by several arms being connected to each other by means of moving pivots, and the upper 4 and base 6 members being connected to the collapsible framework (specifically to one or more of the arms) by means of fixed pivots. The collapsible framework according to the present invention therefore provides a convenient solution to accommodating the required change in height without the need for any sliding components in the collapsible carry cot. For example, the present invention avoids the need for at least one of the first arm and the second arm to be slidably connected to the base member and / or the upper member. Moreover, the present invention avoids the needs for arms to be slidably connected. The collapsible framework according to the present invention therefore avoids the need for sliding components in the collapsible framework.

Starting from an extended configuration, moving the first arm 18 relative to the second arm 20 causes the first and second arms to pivot relative to the base member 6 and the upper member 4 respectively, as indicated by the arrows proximal to 18A and 20A in Figure 3A. This causes the first 18 and second 20 arms to move downwardly towards base member 6, and causes off-centre pivot 24 between the first 18 and second 20 arms to move laterally and vertically relative to the base member 6. This lateral motion causes the third arm 36 to pivot relative to the first arm 18, and the fourth arm 38 to pivot relative to the second arm 20, and the pivots 28, 29 therebetween are caused to move downwardly and laterally with respect to base member 6. As such, the third 36 and fourth arms 38 are caused to move closer towards each other and downwardly towards the base member 6, and the pivot 26 between the third arm 36 and fourth arm 38 is urged to move downwardly and laterally relative to the base member 6. Collectively, these motions cause the collapsible framework to move from the extended configuration (Figure 3A) to the collapsed configuration (Figure 3B). The inverse series of events occurs where the collapsible framework moves from a collapsed configuration to an extended configuration, and will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

As mentioned above, the present invention avoids the need for the collapsible framework to be slidably arranged relative to the base member or the upper member.

The configuration of the collapsible framework determines the distance between the upper member 4 and the base member 6 when the collapsible carry cot is in the extended configuration, and also when in the collapsed configuration. The length of the first 18, second 20, third 36 and fourth 38 arms comprised in the first frame portion 8, together with the relative positions of the moving pivots, determines the extent to which the upper member 4 and the base member 6 can move relative to one another. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that longer arms can accommodate greater movement. As such, longer first 18, second 20, third 36 and fourth 38 arms allow the upper member 4 and the base member 6 to move relative to one another to a greater extent, relative to a shorter arms. As such, by controlling the size of the arms, the final height of the carry cot in the extended configuration can advantageously be determined.

Generally, the first arm 18 and second arm 20 are identical in size, and separately the third arm 36 and fourth arm 38 are identical in size. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that positioning moving pivots towards the ends of the arms can accommodate greater movement, relative to the moving pivots being towards central regions of the arms. As such, the relative position of moving pivot 24 between the first 18 and second 20 arms, the relative position of moving pivot 28 between the first 18 and third 36 arms, the relative position of moving pivot 29 between the second 20 and fourth 38 arms, and the relative position of moving pivot 26 between the third 36 and fourth 38 arms also contributes to the extent to which the collapsible framework can expand and collapse.

The collapsible framework therefore provides a convenient solution to providing a collapsible carry cot, in that the first 8 and second 8' frame portions can be identical, and in that the first 18 and second 20 arms comprised in each frame portion 8, 8' can also be identical, and in that the third 36 and fourth 38 arms comprised in each frame portion 8, 8' can also be identical. During manufacturing, both the first and second arms can therefore be manufactured in tandem. Similarly, both the third and fourth arms can be manufactured in tandem. The present invention therefore reduces the burden of tooling and manufacture of the collapsible carry cot, and also provides an effective solution to providing a collapsible framework in a carry cot.

Releasable Locking Mechanism The collapsible carry cot is provided with a releasable locking mechanism 16. The releasable locking mechanism 16 is conveniently positioned on the upper member of the collapsible carry cot, and therefore is easily accessible to the user. The releasable locking mechanism is configured to engage with protrusion 40 of the third arm 36 in the first frame portion 8 of the collapsible framework. Advantageously, providing the protrusion 40 on the third arm 36, which is pivotally connected to the upper member 4 (optionally via housing 58) enables the releasable locking mechanism 16 to be located on the upper member 4 of the collapsible carry cot 2.

Whilst the present invention is described with reference to releasable locking mechanism 16 of the first frame portion 8, the second frame portion 8' an identical releasable locking mechanism 16'. The releasable locking mechanism 16 and releasable locking mechanism 16' are arranged either side of the upper member 4 to be mirror images of each other. Advantageously, the provision of two independent releasable locking mechanisms 16, 16' provides additional strength and increases the structural integrity of the collapsible framework in the extended configuration. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that only one of releasable locking mechanisms 16, 16' may be provided, and that the desired securing of the collapsible framework in the expanded configuration would still be achieved. For the sake of brevity, therefore, only first releasable locking mechanism 16 is described in detail (Figure 5, Figure 6).

The releasable locking mechanism 16 comprises a housing 58 secured to an inside surface of the upper member 4. The housing 58 can be secured to the upper member 4 by fastening means 62 such as a screw, a rivet or the like. The housing 58 comprises an elongated slot 56 for receiving the second end 368 of the third arm 36 and the protrusion 40. The housing 58 further comprises an aperture 54 which accommodates pivoting means (e.g. a pin), to pivotally connect the second end 368 of third arm 36 to the housing 58. Secured between the housing 58 and the inside surface of the upper member 4 is a locking member 46. A lip 64 extends from the housing 58 in the direction of the plane of the upper member, and is secured to the underside of upper member 4. Locking member 46 comprises a protrusion 66 which engages with an elongated aperture 60 provided in the upper member.

The protrusion 66 of the locking member 46, the elongated aperture 60, and housing 58 are configured such that the locking member is slidably arranged within the housing 58, and is in slidable engagement with the protrusion 40 of the third arm 36. The locking member 46 has a locking position and a releasing position. The locking member 46 is biased into the locking position within the housing by biasing means 44, for example a spring. The biasing means 44 is secured to the locking member 46, such that movement of the biasing mean imparts movement to the locking member. Additionally or alternatively, the biasing means 44 may be secured against the locking member 46 within the housing 58. In the locking position, the locking member engages with the engaging edge 40B of the protrusion 40 comprised in the third arm 36. In this locking position, the locking member locks the collapsible framework in an extended configuration.

The releasable locking mechanism comprises a release member 50 (Figure 6, Figure 7). The biasing means 44 is additionally connected to the release member 50. The release member 50 comprises a locking release 48, such as a button, actuation of which causes the locking member 46 to move from the locking position into a releasing position. In the releasing position, the engaging edge 40B of protrusion 40 is no longer engaged with the locking member 46, and so the third arm 36 can freely pivot past the locking member, and the collapsible framework can move into the collapsed configuration. Actuation of the locking release 48 imparts movement to the locking member 46 by means of an intermediate member 52. The intermediate member 52 is provided in the form of a cable 52 which is connected to the locking member 46 and to the locking release 48. The upper member 4 may be hollow, and so the cable 52 may be fed through the upper member, and secured to the protrusion 66 of the locking member 46. In this way, the moving components of the releasable locking mechanism are advantageously enclosed within the housing 58, upper member 4, and the release member 50, and therefore the user is not at risk of catching their fingers in the mechanism during use.

In the expanded configuration (Figure 7A) engaging edge 40B of the protrusion 40 of the third arm 36 is engaged with the locking member 46 of the releasable locking mechanism 16. The releasable locking mechanism 16 therefore has the first frame portion of the collapsible framework in a secured position, such that the collapsible infant carrier is suitable for use with an infant. An analogous releasable locking mechanism 16' is provided to secure the second frame portion 8' of the collapsible framework in an analogous manner to that described in relation to the first frame member 8. Engaging edge 40B' of the protrusion 40' of the third arm 36' is engaged with the releasable locking mechanism 16' of the second frame portion 8'. As such, the collapsible carry cot 2 effectively comprises two locking members, each engaging with one of two protrusions provided on the third arms comprised in the first or second frame portions. Providing two locking members advantageously provides good strength and stability to the collapsible carry cot when in the extended configuration.

The locking release 48 is housed within the release member 50. When a user wishes to move the collapsible carry cot from an extended carry cot from the expanded configuration to the collapsed configuration, the user actuates the locking release 48 e.g. a button, by depressing it towards the release member 50, as indicated by the direction of the arrow (A) in Figure 7A. Advantageously, the locking release 48 may be actuated by use of a single hand. Actuation of the locking release 48 causes the locking member 46 to slide towards the release member 50, as indicated by the direction of the arrow (B) in Figure 7B. As can be seen in Figure 7B, the locking member 46 is no longer engaged with the protrusions 40 of the third arm 36, and the third arm 36 is therefore free to pivot relative to the upper member, and therefore is also free to pivot relative to the first arm 18, and relative to the fourth arm 38. The protrusion 40 can move past the locking member 46 such that the collapsible framework can move into the collapsed configuration, as described in more detail below with reference to Figure 8.

In Figure 8, the housing 58 of the locking release mechanism 16, and the upper member 4, are shown in dashed outline only for reference. Figure 8A shows the locking member 46 in the locking position. The locking member 46 comprises a lip 70 that is engaged with engaging edge 40B of protrusion 40 to secure the collapsible framework in the extended configuration. Turning to Figure 8B, following actuation of the locking release 48, the locking member 46 slidably moves into a releasing position, towards the release member 50 (not shown) in the direction indicated by the arrow (C), causing connecting member 52 to retract and causing biasing member 44 to become compressed. The sliding movement of the locking member 46 causes lip 70 and engaging edge 40B to become disengaged, and the third arm 36 can pivot relative to the upper member 4 (more particularly relative to housing 58 connected to upper member 4), and relative to first arm 18, as indicated by the arrows (D, E) in Figure 8B. The leading edge 40A of the protrusion 40 therefore begins to slide underneath the locking member 46. Turning to Figure 8C, once the protrusion 40 has passed underneath the locking member 46, the tension in the compressed biasing member 44 is released, and the locking member 46 is biased back into a locking position in the direction indicated by the arrow (F). The collapsible carry cot 2 therefore can be moved into a collapsed configuration from an extended configuration by actuation of the locking release 48.

When a user wishes to move the collapsible carry cot from the collapsed configuration to the extended configuration, the user need only move the upper member 4 relative to the base member 6. Advantageously, moving the upper member 4 relative to the base member 6 may be achieved by a single hand of the user, particularly where a handle 10 is provided (Figure 1). As illustrated in Figure 9A, this may be achieved by lifting the upper member 4 upwards in the direction indicated by the arrows (G). However, those skilled in the art will equally appreciate that the base member 6 could move downwardly relative to the upper member 4 (e.g. under the influence of gravity). Movement of the upper member in the direction indicated by arrows (G) causes the first arm to pivot relative to the base member about a fixed pivot in the direction indicated by arrow J, and the fourth arm to pivot relative to the base member about a fixed pivot in the direction indication by arrow J. Concurrently, the second arm pivots relative to the upper member about a fixed pivot in the direction indicated by arrow L, and the third arm to pivot relative to the upper member about a fixed pivot On a direction analogous to arrow L). The moving pivots pivotally coupling the third arm 36 and fourth arm 38, the first arm 18 to the third arm 36, and the second arm 20 to the fourth arm 38, move upwardly On the direction of arrow H in Figure 9A) and laterally (in the direction of arrow I in Figure 9B). As shown in Figure 9B, the lateral movement of the moving pivots may be inward movement (i.e. towards the central portion of the base member, and towards the first and second arms) when the collapsible framework moves from a collapsed to an extended configuration. This causes the protrusion 40 to engage with the locking member 46, to secure the collapsible framework 7 in the extended configuration as shown in Figure 9, and as described below in more detail with reference to Figure 10. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the inverse of the actions and movements described in relation to Figure 9 apply when the collapsible framework is moved from an extended configuration into a collapsed configuration.

As the upper member 4 is caused to move relative to the base member 6 and the distance therebetween increases, the collapsible framework expands. As described above, the third arm 36 is pivotally connected to the upper member 4 (more particularly to housing 58; both upper member 4 and housing 58 are depicted by dashed lines in Figure 10), to the first arm 18 and to the fourth arm 38. As can be seen in Figure 10A, as the pivot between the third arm 36 and the first arm 18 moves downwardly and inwardly in the direction indicated by arrow M, the protrusion 40 of the third arm 36 moves upwardly and outwardly in the direction indicated by arrow N. The pivoting motion of the collapsible framework as it expands therefore causes the leading edge 40A of protrusion 40 to contact the underside of the locking member 46. The leading edge 40A comprises a curved profile allowing the leading edge 40A to slidably engage with the underside of the locking member 46. As the leading edge 40A comes into contact with the underside of the locking member 46, it causes the locking member 46 to slidably move in the direction indicated by arrow 0 in Figure 10A from the locking position to a releasing position, and causes the biasing member 44 to become compressed. As the collapsible framework continues to extend, the protrusion 40 clears the locking member 46, and the tension in the biasing member 44 is released causing the locking member 46 to be biased back in a direction indicated by the arrow P and into a locking position. This causes the engaging edge 40B of the protrusion 40, and lip 70 of locking member 46 to engage, therefore securing the collapsible framework in the extended configuration. Therefore advantageously, the releasable locking mechanism 16 can be activated automatically simply by moving the upper member 4 relative to the base member 6, without the need for manually securing the collapsible carry cot in an extended configuration. Therefore the present invention provides an extremely convenient means by which the collapsible carry cot can be assembled when required, optionally using a single hand which leaves the other hand of the user free e.g. to carry the infant.

The collapsible carry cot comprises side walls (not illustrated) which enclose the collapsible framework. For instance, the side walls may comprise an outer fabric material, and also an inner fabric material. The side walls may additionally be provided with padding e.g. foam to cushion the side walls. Additionally, a hood may be provided between the handle 10 and the upper member 4.

Additionally the collapsible carry cot may comprise connecting means to allow it to be connected to chasses, for instance a pushchair chassis or a pram chassis. Preferably, the connecting means are releasable, such that the collapsible carry cot can be readily removed from the chassis when desired.

Claims (17)

1. CLAIMS: 1. A collapsible carry cot for carrying an infant comprising: an upper member and a base member; a collapsible framework connecting the upper member and the base member, wherein moving the upper member relative to the base member causes the collapsible framework to move between an extended configuration and a collapsed configuration, the collapsible framework comprising at least one frame portion, the at least one frame portion comprising: a first pair of arms pivotally coupled to each other, and a second pair arms pivotally coupled to each other, wherein the arms of the first pair of arms are pivotally coupled to the arms of the second pair of arms, such that pivoting the arms of the first pair of arms relative to each other causes the arms of the second pair of arms to pivot relative to each other and the collapsible framework to move between the extended and collapsed configurations.
2. 2. A collapsible carry cot according to claim 1, wherein the collapsible framework is connected to the upper member and the base member by means of fixed pivots.
3. 3. A collapsible carry cot according to claim 2, wherein the arms of the first pair of arms are pivotally coupled to each other by means of a moving pivot, the arms of the second pair of arms are pivotally coupled to each other by means of a moving pivot, and wherein the first pair of arms is pivotally coupled to the second pair of arms by means of a moving pivot.
4. 4. A collapsible carry cot according to claim 3, wherein the moving pivots are configured to move laterally and vertically with respect to the base member, as the collapsible framework moves between an extended configuration and a collapsed configuration.
5. 5. A collapsible carry cot according to claim 4, wherein moving the upper member relative to the base member causes the arms of the first pair of arms to move relative to each other, the arms of the second pair of arms to move relative to each other, and causes the first and second pairs of arms to move laterally and vertically with respect to the base member and the upper member.
6. 6. A collapsible carry cot according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first pair of arms comprises a first arm and a second arm, and the second pair of arms comprises a third arm and a fourth arm, wherein the first arm and second arm are pivotally coupled by means of a moving pivot, the first arm is pivotally coupled to the base member by means of a fixed pivot, and the second arm is pivotally connected to the upper member by means of a fixed pivot, the third arm and fourth arm are pivotally coupled by means of a moving pivot, the third arm is pivotally coupled to the upper member by means of a fixed pivot, and the fourth arm is pivotally connected to the base member by means of a fixed pivot.
7. 7. A collapsible carry cot according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising at least one releasable locking mechanism configured to lock the at least one frame portion in position when the collapsible framework is in the extended configuration; and to release the at least one frame portion such that the framework can move from the extended configuration to the collapsed configuration.
8. 8. A collapsible carry cot according to claim 7, wherein the at least one releasable locking mechanism comprises at least one locking member and at least one locking release wherein actuation of the at least one locking release causes the at least one locking member to move from a locking position to a releasing position, such that the framework can move from the extended configuration to the collapsed configuration.
9. 9. A collapsible carry cot according to any claim 8, wherein the at least one locking member is biased towards the locking position, optionally by means of a resiliently deformable member, optionally wherein the resiliently deformable member is a spring.
10. 10. A collapsible carry cot according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the at least one locking member is slidably arranged relative to the upper member to allow the locking member to move between the locking position and the releasing position.
11. 11. A collapsible carry cot according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the locking release is connected to the at least one locking member by means of a connecting member, such that actuation of the locking release causes lateral movement the locking member.
12. 12. A collapsible carry cot according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the at least one locking member comprises a lip for engaging with the at least one frame portion to lock the collapsible framework in an extended configuration.
13. 13. A collapsible carry cot according to claim 12, wherein the second pair of arms engages with the at least one locking member to lock the collapsible framework in an extended configuration, optionally wherein an arm of the second pair of arms comprises a protrusion for engaging with the at least one locking member in the locking position.
14. 14. A collapsible carry cot according to claim 13, wherein an arm of the second pair of arms comprises a protrusion for engaging with the at least one locking member in the locking position, and in use: as the collapsible framework moves from a collapsed position to an extended position, a leading edge of the protrusion contacts the locking member causing the locking member to be urged from the locking position into the releasing position thereby allowing the protrusion to pass the locking member; and the locking member is biased back to the locking position causing the locking member to engage with an engaging edge of the protrusion, thereby locking the collapsible framework in a fully extended position.
15. 15. A collapsible carry cot according to any one of claims 7 to 14, wherein the at least one releasable locking mechanism comprises at least one locking member housing, wherein the at least one locking member is positioned within the at least one locking member housing, the locking member housing being connected to the upper member.
16. 16. A collapsible carry cot according any one of claims 1 to 15, comprising a first frame portion and second frame portion, wherein the second frame portion is arranged opposite to and aligned relative to the first frame portion, optionally wherein the first frame portion and second frame portion are identical and are arranged symmetrically.
17. 17. A collapsible carry cot according to claim 16 comprising: a first frame portion and a second frame portion; a first releasable locking mechanism configured to lock the first frame portion in position when the framework is in the extended configuration; and to release the first frame portion such that the framework can move from the extended configuration to the collapsed configuration a second releasable locking mechanism configured to lock and release the second frame portion; and a second releasable locking mechanism configured to lock the second frame portion in position when the framework is in the extended configuration; and to release the second frame portion such that the framework can move from the extended configuration to the collapsed configuration a second releasable locking mechanism configured to lock and release the second frame portion.