WO2013037514A1

WO2013037514A1 - Child carrier

Info

Publication number: WO2013037514A1
Application number: PCT/EP2012/057842
Authority: WO
Inventors: Margot Marjoleine Hoppener-Visser
Original assignee: Minimonkey Bv
Priority date: 2011-09-12
Filing date: 2012-04-27
Publication date: 2013-03-21
Also published as: NL2008730C2; NL2008730A

Abstract

An improved child carrier (1') is provided comprising a main body (3) and left and right shoulder straps (11A, 11B) connected with left and right sides (9A, 9B) of the main body, respectively. In an aspect the child carrier further comprises a waist strap (19) connected to a lower side of the main body, wherein the main body provides a torso supporting portion (77) and a seating portion (79) for the child. The seating portion comprises one or more adjustment portions (81A, 81B) which are adjustable with respect to the main body in a first and a second configuration. In the first configuration the seating portion has a first width and in the second configuration the seating portion is partly narrowed with respect to the first configuration, providing a relatively narrow portion (87) between a first relatively wide portion ( 89) extending towards the waist strap and a second relatively wide portion extending towards the torso supporting portion. In another aspect, the child carrier comprises left and right cross straps (27A, 27B) connected with the left (right) side of the main body and/or the left (right) shoulder strap, wherein the left (right) side of the main body and/or the left (right) shoulder strap comprise at least one left (right) fastener (29A; 29B), for fastening the right and left cross straps (27B, 27A) to a left and a right fastener (29A; 29B), respectively.

Description

Child carrier

The present disclosure relates to a load carrier, in particular a child carrier comprising a main body and left and right shoulder straps connected with the left and right sides of the main body, respectively. Such carriers are known in the art for carrying a load, e.g. a child, in front or on the back of a wearer of the carrier, e.g. a parent.

For instance, EP 1 055 382 and FR 2 794 010 disclose a cloth baby carrier for carrying the baby on the back in ancestral tradition, comprising a rectangular cloth having a general "U-shape" in opposite width directions, forming four attachment bands to provide a waist band and a chest band.

Shoulder bands extend between the cloth rectangle and the chest band. The waist band and a chest band are closed in front of the wearer.

Further, WO 2005/025383 and US 7,322,498 disclose a child carrier, which includes a main panel having generally a rectangular shape. The bottom edge of the main panel is joined to the top edge of a padded waist band and the bottom edge of a head-restraining panel is joined to the top edge of the main panel. Shoulder straps are connected to the main panel and are conjoined by a chest strap that is slidably mounted upon each shoulder strap. Adjustable restraining straps are connected to the chest strap and to the head-restraining panel. The chest strap comprises an adjustable buckle to facilitate entering and exiting the carrier harness. DE 20 2007 006 204 discloses a similar child carrier.

EP 1 992 257 also discloses a similar child carrier. This carrier is reversible, being adaptable for selectively carrying an infant in the front or the back of the wearer.

EP 1 591 044 discloses an infant carrier which has an infant carrier main body having a pair of shoulder belts to be mounted around the shoulders of a user, and a vertical holding seat to be mounted on the infant carrier main body so as to hold an infant in a vertical holding condition. The backsides of the pair of the shoulder belts are provided with curves in directions that they approach each other, and joining means, in particular a buckle, for joining together the shoulder belts is provided at the vertex positions of the curves.

The chest strap of WO 2005/025383, US 7,322,498, DE

20 2007 006 204 and EP 1 992 257, and the buckle of EP

1 159 044 serve to secure the shoulder straps against slipping off the shoulders and to suit the weight of (the child in) the carrier over the wearer's torso. Child carriers of the general types disclosed by these documents are available from

different vendors.

A drawback of such prior art carriers is that the chest strap or joining means are difficult to near impossible to close and/or open by a wearer behind his/her back in case the child is carried in front of the wearer, yet such carrying position is preferred for very young children, e.g. babies and infants. Generally, the wearer needs assistance for closing the chest strap or buckle in such case. Leaving the chest strap or buckle open in such case is no acceptable

alternative, since that poses the serious risk that the shoulder straps slide off the wearer's shoulders, in

particular when the wearer reaches forward or downward.

Further, with the above child carriers a significant fraction of the carrying weight is supported by the shoulders of the wearer, which is tiring. The same holds for backpacks, wherein the main body comprises a bag or another load carrying arrangement. A carrying arrangement is therefore desired with improved weight distribution of the child and/or the load.

It is noted that a different category of baby carriers exist, which are characterised by having a front portion for carrying a baby and shoulder straps that cross each other behind the wearer's back. However, such baby carriers require various buckles to close the harness of the shoulder band e.g. as disclosed in US 5,732,861 or EP 1 616 510, and/or are difficult to put on and/or pull off.

Furthermore, such baby carriers are unsuitable or at least uncomfortable for use with elder (larger) children and are unsuitable to be worn with the child on the back of the wearer .

Most child carriers are optimised for children of a particular age or size range. Some child carriers provide adjustment measures for accommodating children of different ages and/or sizes. E.g. DE 20 2007 006 204 cited above comprises a trapezium-shaped flap within the main panel to reduce the effective volume of the carrier and provide a baby seat .

Further, WO 2011/011158 discloses a baby carrier which is adjustable as to the width of the hips of the baby. An arrangement of fasteners which may be located near the bottom edge of the body covering panel provides a selection of connections providing a first and second loop with different circumferential dimensions so as to accommodate different hip dimensions, for example for babies of different ages and body sizes .

WO 2010/123447 discloses a baby carrier adapted for carrying a child either face-to face or in forward-facing position, comprising chest straps, a waist belt connected to the chest straps, and a carrier bag mounted on the chest straps and the waist belt and comprising a front piece which together with at least the chest straps forms a carrier pouch having leg openings, whereby at least the lower portion of the front piece is connected to the waist belt and forms a first seat support. A second wider seat support is at least

partially detachably arranged between the waist belt and a region of the front piece at a level corresponding to the waist belt. The second wider seat support may be used for bigger children and in the face-to-face position, whereas the first narrower seat support may be used for smaller children and in the forward-facing position.

However, it has been found that in the latter two carriers in the forward-facing position the support for the child is uncomfortable for prolonged duration, e.g. resulting in tiredness and in "sleeping" legs.

US 2010/0187269 discloses a support belt which includes openings to connect with and attach to the waist support of existing "mei tai" baby carriers of the general type of WO 2005/025383, US 7,322,498 and DE 20 2007 006 204, to help transfer the baby' s weight to the carrier' s hips and lower body. The support belt also aids in weight distribution to the hips and thighs with heavy babies or toddlers. It can also help extend the life of existing carriers when in use with a heavier toddler. Due to the width of the support belt, a carrier fitted with such support belt becomes unsuitable for carrying a young child in the facing-forward position.

US 6,443,339 discloses a baby carrier used for holding a baby in both face-to-face and forward-facing

manners, which includes a carrier body for accommodating a body of a baby and a wearing member secured to the carrier body for wearing the carrier body on a body of a user. The carrier body includes at least a back rest and is capable of accommodating and holding a baby in both a face-to-face holding manner in which the baby is held such that the back rest is brought into contact with the back of the baby and a forward-facing holding manner in which the baby is held such that the back rest is brought into contact with the chest and abdomen of the baby. The back rest includes a width-reducing member for reducing a width of a lower portion of the back rest, to be located between legs of the baby when the baby is held in a forward-facing holding manner. However, such

reduction of the width leads to wrinkling of the cloth

increasing the bulk of the crotch portion and reducing comfort for the baby.

EP 1 992 257 discloses a reversible infant carrier adaptable for selectively carrying the infant in the front or the back of the wearer with proper back and abdomen support, which includes an anterior support panel and a posterior support panel linked thereto. An adjustable length coupling strip may link the anterior and posterior panels, the length of which may be varied by a length 1. Thus, infants having variously sized pelvic structures may all be supported without in the infant carrier. However, in the short configuration the coupling strip provides a folded portion which reduces comfort to the infant. Consequently, there is also a desire for an improved child carrier, in particular for a carrier for young or very young children like babies, infants, and/or toddlers, possibly also for young children up to about five years.

Herewith, a carrier is provided, in particular a child carrier, comprising a main body and left and right shoulder straps connected with an upper side of the main body, respectively, and further comprising a waist strap connected with a lower side of the main body. The carrier is

characterised by an abdominal strap connected with left and right sides of the main body, respectively, between the upper and lower sides for encircling the abdomen of a wearer and providing a middle portion substantially opposite the main body, wherein the left and right shoulder straps are connected with the abdominal strap in the middle portion.

In such carrier, the horizontal and vertical forces acting on the wearer's body by the load are largely separated. It has been found that such carrier reduces the burden on the shoulders and redistributes the weight over the torso with focus on the abdomen and waist. This largely conforms to the load distribution of a pregnancy and the associated

musculature. The carrier also reduces pressure on the chest, in particular benefitting women. The result is that carrying a given load with the presently provided carrier is found significantly more comfortable than carrying the same load with prior art carriers. Also, in such carrier fine tuning of tension and/or forces in the main body of the carrier is facilitated which is particularly important for child

carriers. Support of the torso and the head may be adjusted more independently benefitting the child's comfort.

In such carrier, the abdominal strap may be detachably connected with at least one side of the main body, e.g. with at least one detachable fastener. This facilitates access to the connection and therewith it facilitates donning and/or removing the carrier either with the load in front or behind the wearer's torso. Thus, the carrier may be used in front-carrying position without outside help. In the carrier the abdominal strap may be openable in the middle portion between the left and right shoulder straps, e.g. with at least one detachable fastener, and/or at least one shoulder strap may be detachably connected with the abdominal strap and/or the main body, e.g. with one or more detachable fasteners. This facilitates donning, wearing and/or removing the carrier in various ways, e.g. jacket-style with the main body on the back of the wearer. In particular when wearing the carrier with the main body in front of the wearer, the shoulder bands may be arranged to be crossed behind the wearer' s back.

At or near their connection with the middle portion the shoulder straps may be connected to converge towards each other or cross each other for further improved distribution of the weight and forces over the straps and/or the wearer's torso. E.g., this increases freedom of movement of the

wearer's shoulders and arms.

In an embodiment of the carrier, the shoulder straps have a top portion extending, in use, over the shoulders of a wearer, and the waist strap has a middle portion substantially opposite the main body and the middle portion of the abdominal strap is arranged, in use, in a position about halfway the top portion of the shoulder straps and the middle portion of the waist strap or lower. In such carrier the forces are

distributed particularly well.

Provision of an even distribution of the forces over the straps is improved when the abdominal strap is connected with the main body in a position between about 1/5 to 1/2 from the top of the height separation between the connection

positions of the shoulder straps and the waist strap with the main body.

For prevention of localised forces and/or cutting of the abdominal strap into the abdomen, the abdominal strap may be widened and/or padded in the middle portion with respect to portions towards the main body. Also, widened abdominal strap may assist in maintaining, in use, a substantially horizontal position of the strap, which improves separation of horizontal and vertical forces. Further, a child carrier of the above-mentioned type is provided which is characterised by a left cross strap connected with the left side of the main body and/or the left shoulder strap, and a right cross strap connected with the right side of the main body and/or the right shoulder strap, wherein the left side of the main body and/or the left

shoulder strap comprise at least one left fastener and the right side of the main body and/or the right shoulder strap comprise at least one right fastener, respectively, for fastening the right and left cross straps to a left and a right fastener, respectively.

The main body serves for carrying (the body or the behind of) the child. Such child carrier facilitates putting on / pulling off and wearing the child carrier like a rucksack with each arm through one shoulder strap and while having the main body and the child as a front carrier or a back carrier like a rucksack, or with the main body and the child on the back of the wearer's body. The cross straps, when fastened to the left and right fasteners, may generally cross and allow securing the shoulder bands against slipping off the

shoulders. Also, the shape and/or weight distribution of the child carrier may be adjusted to suit the wearer's body.

Crossing cross band facilitate even distribution of the weight over just a single band, obviating sliding arrangements as in WO 2005/025383 and US 7,322,498. In addition, having two bands is securer than one.

Further, providing cross bands and separate fasteners therefor provides significantly increased flexibility in the manner and position of fastening and/or undoing the shoulder band securing arrangement provided by the cross bands compared to a single chest strap or buckle.

In particular, left and right fasteners may be attached to or near the main body, and the cross straps may be configured such that, when the main body is carried on one side of the wearer' s body, the cross straps are fastenable to the left and right fasteners substantially on that one side of the wearer's body while crossing each other on an opposite side of the wearer's body. Thus, when carrying the child in front of the wearer' s body, the carrier can be secured against falling due to the shoulder bands slipping off the shoulders by simple fastening of the cross bands on or near the front side of the wearer's body, thus in perfect reach of the wearer. Assistance for fastening the cross straps is not required. The position of the left and right fasteners may be chosen such that the cross straps are also generally easy in reach when the child is carried on the back and the cross straps are crossed in front of the wearer.

Compared to a baby carrier with only crossing shoulder bands, the carrier provided herein is significantly easier to put on than and it is not required to rely on buckles for the structural integrity of the carrier.

When the left and right fasteners are attached to the main body of the carrier, the cross straps may assist in pulling the main body relatively tightly against the body of the wearer. A tighter main body may facilitate carrying a baby or small infant.

The carrier may comprise plural left and right fasteners for fastening the right and left cross straps, respectively, in different crossing arrangements. This

facilitates adapting the carrier to different wearers and/or methods of wearing. In particular, two sets of left and right fasteners may be provided, one set particularly arranged for carrying the child in front of the wearer and a second set particularly arranged for carrying the child on the back of the wearer.

The child carrier may comprise a waist strap to ease the load off the wearer' s shoulders and shift it to the waist or pelvic region. It should be noted that in such child

carrier, the shoulder bands would slip off the shoulders more easily than when pressed down onto the shoulders by the full weight of the child. A securing arrangement as provided by the cross bands may therefore be considered a must in such

carrier .

Advantageously, a length of at least one of the shoulder straps, the cross straps and the waist strap is adjustable. Thus, the shape of the carrier may be adapted to suit different wearers and/or different and/or growing children .

At least one of the shoulder straps and the waist strap may be openable and closable with a fastener to

facilitate putting on / pulling off and/or change the wearing position of the carrier.

The carrier may comprise at least one continuous strap providing at least one portion of the left shoulder strap and of the left cross strap and/or at least one portion of the right shoulder strap and the of right cross strap, respectively. This facilitates manufacturing the carrier and it may reduce the number of straps and/or fasteners,

facilitating use of the carrier.

E.g., a continuous strap may extend from one side of the main panel, e.g. from a left lower fastener, to an upper shoulder strap portion on that side, e.g. to a left upper fastener, thus forming a portion of a shoulder strap, e.g. the left shoulder strap, and extend from the upper shoulder strap portion as a cross strap connected with that shoulder strap, e.g. a left cross strap connected with the left shoulder strap. The continuous strap may extend from the upper shoulder strap portion to the corresponding side of the main panel, in particular to a lower fastener and form a looped double strap portion, e.g. extend from the left upper shoulder strap portion to a lower fastener on the left side of the main panel. The optional lower and/or upper fasteners may allow length adjustment of the continuous strap. Provision of such continuous strap further facilitates manufacturing and it may increase adjustability of the carrier to the size of a carrier and the carried child.

The child carrier may comprise a head support attached, preferably detachably attached, to the main body for supporting the head of a child carried in the child carrier, in particular for a baby incapable of raising its head or for a sleeping child. The head support may be padded and/or cushion-like. A detachable head support facilitates cleaning and/or removal when not needed. When attached to the main body, such head support may advantageously be partly or wholly foldable downward,

preferably in one or more predetermined amounts, wherein the child carrier comprises one or more fasteners to hold the support in an unfolded state and in one or more such partially folded-down states. This facilitates adapting the carrier to the size of the carried child and/or its needs and interests, e.g. when it wants to look around over the carrier and/or for feeding the child when carried.

At least when the child carrier is worn by a wearer, at least a portion of the head support may be adjustable for shaping the head support. E.g., a strap may be provided which allows pulling a portion of the head support tighter to the wearer to support the head of a sleeping child or a baby incapable of raising its head, or rather to release the head support to give the child (more) freedom to move the head.

The child carrier may comprise a head cover for at least partly covering the head of a child carried in the child carrier, wherein the head cover is attached, preferably detachably, to the main body, and wherein the head cover, when attached to the main body, comprises left and right free top sides which are fastenable with fasteners to the left and right shoulder straps and/or the left and right cross straps above an upper edge of the main body and, if present, above the head support. Such head cover allows supporting and/or protecting the head of the child, in particular a relatively large child whose head is above the upper edge of the main body. Such head cover may protect against weather influences, like sun, wind, rain etc. and may be used to support the head of a sleeping child. A detachable head cover facilitates cleaning and/or removal when not needed.

The head cover may be attached, preferably detachably, to the main body below an upper edge thereof and/or, if present, below the head support. In such case, the head cover does not interfere with the upper edge of the main body and/or head support, which may be of different materials.

The left and right free top sides of the head cover may be fastenable with fasteners to the main body below the upper edge of the main body. In such child carrier, the head cover may be stored without it hanging loose and/or flapping about. A storage space may be provided wherein the head cover may be stored, e.g. in folded and/or rolled-up fashion. The storage space may be in the head support with the head cover material forming padding for the head support. However, the fasteners may be arranged such that the head cover, fastened to the fasteners, is maintained substantially against and/or conforming with the main body. This allows the head cover to be neatly stored without forming a bulge of folded and/or rolled-up material, and possible deformation and/or an irreproducible shape of the head support is prevented.

In an embodiment, the main body and the waist strap comprise a unitary piece of fabric. It is also possible that the main body and the head support and/or the head cover, when present, comprise a unitary piece of fabric. Thus, a

continuous shape and strength may be provided throughout the unitary piece of fabric and possible detachment or tearing of a seam joining two portions is prevented. Such child carrier may therefore be more robust than stitched-together child carriers may. Further, manufacturing costs may be reduced.

Advantageously, one or more fasteners comprise buckles and/or hook-and-loop type fasteners, commonly referred to as Velcro® but available from many different sources and with different brand names. In particular, fasteners for the optional head support may be hook-and-loop type fasteners, since these allow deformation and prevent hard objects near the child's head. Buckles may be preferred for closing the shoulder straps and/or cross straps. Buckles may be secured with one or more hook-and-loop type fasteners. An optional waist band may be closable with hook-and-loop type to prevent (local pressure of) a hard buckle and to conform to the wearer's body. This may in particular be relevant when the child carrier is worn by a pregnant woman.

Further, an improved child carrier of the general above-mentioned type is provided for carrying a child in a face-to-face position and in a forward-facing position, which comprises a waist strap connected to a lower side of the main body, wherein the main body provides a torso supporting portion and a seating portion for the child. The seating portion comprises one or more adjustment portions which are adjustable with respect to the main body in a first

configuration and a second configuration. In the first

configuration the seating portion has a first width. In the second configuration the seating portion is partly narrowed with respect to the first configuration, providing a seating portion with a varying width having a relatively narrow portion with a second width arranged away from the waist strap and a first relatively wide portion extending towards the waist band and a second relatively wide portion extending towards the torso supporting portion of the main portion.

Thus, in the second configuration the first

relatively wide portion extends between the relatively narrow portion and the waist strap and the second relatively wide portion extends between the relatively narrow portion and the torso supporting portion of the main portion and the seating portion has a generally narrow waist of the second width. As a result, a general saddle-shape is provided between the waist band and the torso supporting portion.

In the second configuration, the width of the seating portion may vary substantially stepwise, but a gradually varying width such as linearly or substantially curved may be preferred e.g. to facilitate an ergonomic shape. E.g., the seating portion may have generally flaring portions away from the relatively narrow portion and it may be generally bow-tie shaped or diabolo-shaped .

Due to the first widened portion between the narrow portion and the waist band, a child seating in a facing- forward position with its back towards the torso of the wearer of the carrier will have a relatively narrow crotch portion formed by the narrow portion of the seating portion, whereas the first widened portion provides a proper support for the child's behind. Such first widened portion is lacking from the prior art child carriers and it has been found that this lack is the main cause for the child's discomfort in prolonged use; the narrow prior art seating portion cuts, as it were, into the child' s bottom and/or thighs and reduces blood flow through the child's legs. Further, in the presently provided child carrier in the second configuration the child tends to feel more secure since it experiences a wider, more

comfortable and stable supporting seat than in the known child carriers. In the presently provided child carrier in the second configuration, a carried child tends to assume more of a sitting posture and to lean against the person carrying the carrier, sitting on the first widened portion between the narrow portion and the waist band, rather than hanging forward against the torso supporting portion. Increased proximity to and physical contact with the wearer facilitates increasing a comforting and securing feeling to the child facing away from the wearer.

As a consequence (the seating portion of) the child carrier with this aspect provides a significantly improved ergonomic shape and it provides increased user comfort to the child when carried in the forward-facing position. Also, with the child leaning against the wearer, the centre of gravity of the child is brought closer to the wearer, redistributing the carrying load more on the waist of the wearer and relieving weight from the shoulders, compared to known carriers.

When a child is carried in the carrier in the face- to-face position (or face-to-back position when carried on the back of the wearer) , its legs are naturally held in a rather spread-out position imposed by (at least partly encircling) the torso of the wearer of the carrier. In the first

configuration of the presently provided carrier the upper legs and thighs are supported ergonomically in such spread position by the relatively wide seating portion with the first width.

It is of course possible to carry the child in the face-to-face position (or face-to-back position) with the seating portion in the second configuration if so preferred. In this case the narrow portion provides increased leg space as before, whereas the second widening portion provides the desired relatively wider portion of the seating portion. E.g. to facilitate such face-to-face use, the seating portion may be formed substantially symmetrical with respect to the narrow portion .

In each of the facing-forward position, face-to-face position and face-to-back position, the front or back side of the child' s torso may be supported by the torso supporting portion .

One or more adjustment portions may be partly or fully detachable from at least a portion the main body of the carrier. A detachable portion may be secured to another portion of the carrier to prevent its loss. One or more provisions for storing a (partly or fully) detached adjustment portion may be provided.

One or more adjustment portions may be detachably attachable to at least a portion the main body of the carrier by means of one or more fasteners, such as buttons, straps and buckles etc. Elongated fasteners such as a hook-and-loop type fastener strips (e.g. Velcro® strips) and/or zippers are preferred for ease of use and/or to distribute stress and/or deformation so as to increase robustness of the carrier and/or prevent potentially discomforting local pressure variations to a seated child.

These and other aspects, which may be employed separately or in combination, will be explained in more detail below with further details and benefits with reference to the drawings showing different embodiments by way of example.

It is noted that the drawings are schematic, not necessarily to scale and that details that are not required for understanding the present invention may have been omitted. The terms "upward", "downward", "below", "above", and the like relate to the embodiments as oriented in normal use and as shown in the drawings, unless otherwise specified. Further, like elements are denoted by like reference numerals, where expedient individualised with alphabetic suffices.

Fig. 1 shows a child carrier;

Fig. 2A indicates a way of fastening shoulder straps and cross straps of the child carrier of Fig. 1; Figs. 2B-2C indicate carrying a child in the carrier in front of a wearer with the cross straps fastened according to Fig. 2A;

Fig. 3A indicates another way of fastening shoulder straps and cross straps of the child carrier of Fig. 1;

Figs. 3B-3C indicate carrying a child in the carrier on the back of a wearer with the cross straps fastened

according to Fig. 3A;

Fig. 4 indicates partly folding down the head support of the child carrier of Fig. 1;

Figs. 5A-5C indicate use of a head cover of the child carrier of Fig. 1;

Figs. 6, 7 and 8A-8B indicate different embodiments of child carriers having an adjustable seating portion;

Figs 9A-10B indicate carrying a child in the carrier in front of a wearer in a facing-forward position in a carrier having a wide seating portion (Figs. 9A-9B) and a carrier having a partly narrowed seating portion (Figs. 10A-10B) ;

Fig. 11 shows another embodiment of a child carrier; Figs 12A-12C indicate carrying a child in the carrier of Fig. 11 in front of a wearer, in different views

Figs 13A-13C indicate a comparison between the prior art (Fig. 13A) and the carriers provided herein (Figs. 13B- 13C).

Fig. 1 is a plan view of a folded-out child carrier 1 comprising a main body 3, which here is generally rectangular or trapezoidal, having an upper side 5, a lower side 7, a left side 9A and a right side 9B opposite each other.

The child carrier 1 comprises a left shoulder strap 11A and a right shoulder strap 11B, each comprising an upper portion 13A, 13B, and a lower portion 15A, 15B, respectively, which are connectable with each other with releasable

fasteners 17A, 17B, respectively, so that the shoulder straps 11A, 11B may be opened (as shown in Fig. 1) and closed. The fasteners 17A, 17B here are of a type allowing adjustment of the length of the shoulder straps 11A, 11B when fastened. At least the upper portions 13A, 13B of the shoulder straps 11A, 11B may be padded to increase wearer comfort. The child carrier 1 comprises an adjustable waist band 19 having left and right waist band portions 21A, 21B, respectively, connectable with each other with a releasable fastener in the form of a two-part snap-buckle 23A, 23B and a hook-and-loop type fastener 25 on the left waist band portion 21A. The hook-and-loop type fastener 25 may be wrapped around the right waist band portion 21B when the buckle 23 is closed to secure the waist band 19 against opening if the buckle 23 becomes (unintentionally) undone. The position of the buckle 23 on the right waist band portion 21B is adjustable, allowing length adjustment of the waist band 19 to a wearer's girth. A free end portion of the right waist band portion 21B may be held by a loop 22 or any other fastener to prevent it from dangling loose.

The child carrier 1 further comprises a left cross strap 27A attached to (the upper portion 13A of) the left shoulder strap 11A and a right cross strap 27B attached to (the upper portion 13B of) the left shoulder strap 11B.

Further, on the left and right sides 9A, 9B of the main body 3 first left and right fasteners 29A, 29B and on (the upper portions 13A, 13B of) the left and right shoulder straps 11A, 11B second left and right fasteners 31A, 31B are attached. The left and right cross straps 27A, 27B have free ends, which are fastenable to the right and left first and second fasteners 29A-31B with matching fasteners 33A, 33B. Here, the fasteners 29A-33B are matching portions of snap-buckles. The positions of the fasteners 33A, 33B on the cross straps 27A, 27B are adjustable, allowing length adjustment of the cross bands 27A, 27B.

The child carrier 1 further comprises a head support

35, attached to the main body 3. The head support 35 here comprises two portions 37, 39, each releasably fastened to the left and right shoulder straps 11A, 11B with left and right hook-and-loop type fasteners 41A, 41B and 43A, 43B,

respectively.

The child carrier 1 further comprises a head cover 45 attached to the main body 3. The head cover 45 has a generally rectangular or trapezoidal shape with a free end 47 remote from the main body 3, providing left and right free top sides 49A, 49B to which left and right head cover straps 51A, 51B and left and right head cover fasteners 53A, 53B are attached. The left and right head cover fasteners 53A, 53B are

fastenable to matching left and right fasteners 55A, 55B (see Fig. 1) to hold and maintain the head cover 45 substantially parallel against the main body 3. The left and right head cover fasteners 53A, 53B are also fastenable to further matching left and right fasteners 57A, 57B on the left and right upper shoulder band portions 13A, 13B, respectively (see below) .

The main body 3 provides the main carrying portion of the carrier 1 and may be provided with one or more pleats, seams, insets, adjusters etc. for providing a comfortable shape for the child to be carried. At least the main body 3 may comprise padding or insulation for comfort of the child. The main body 3 and the waist band 19 here comprise several unitary pieces of fabric to forming layers of integrated main body and waist band material, which may extend into the upper shoulder strap portions 13A, 13B and/or the head support 35.

Figs. 2A-5C indicate different options for use of the child carrier. In Fig. 2A is indicated that the upper and lower portions 13A, 15A and 13B, 15B, respectively, of the shoulder bands 11A, 11B, may be interconnected (dashed arrows IA, IB) . It also indicates that the left cross band 27A may be fastened to the right fastener 29B on the main body 3 and that the right cross band 27B may be fastened to the left fastener 27A on the main body 3, so that the left and right cross bands 27A, 27B cross each other (dashed arrows IIA, IIB) . Figs. 2B and 2C are sketches indicating in left side view (Fig. 2B) and front view (Fig. 2C) an adult 59 carrying a child 61 in front of the adults body in the child carrier 1 arranged according to Fig. 2A. In such wearing position, the child 61 may face the adult 59, which is a preferred position for carrying a baby. Older children may face forward and overlook the main body 3 and/or the head support 35. It will be clear from Figs. 2A-2C that the cross straps 27A, 27B are easily fastened to the fasteners 29A, 29B on the front side of the main body and thus in front of the wearer 59. By adjusting the cross straps, the carrier can be adjusted to the wearer's body and the curvature of the main body 3 holding the child may be adjusted flatter or more curved. The main portion of the weight of the carrier 1 and the child 61 is supported by the waist strap 19 and the shoulder straps 11A, 11B, so that the cross straps 27A, 27B may be relatively narrow. However, one or more portions of the cross straps may be padded to reduce or avoid local pressure on the wearer's back, in particular when (s)he is leaning forward.

In Fig. 3A is indicated, similar to Fig. 2A, that the upper and lower portions 13A, 15A and 13B, 15B, respectively, of the shoulder bands 11A, 11B, may be interconnected (dashed arrows IA, IB) . It also indicates that the left cross band 27A may be fastened to the right fastener 31B on the right

shoulder strap 11B and that the right cross band 27B may be fastened to the fastener 31A on the left shoulder strap 11A, so that the left and right cross bands 27A, 27B cross each other (dashed arrows IIIA, IIIB) . Figs. 3B and 3C are, similar to Figs. 2A, 2B, sketches indicating in left side view (Fig. 3B) and front view (Fig. 3C) an adult 59 carrying a child 61 on the back of the adults body in the child carrier 1 arranged according to Fig. 3A. Such wearing position is a preferred position for carrying an older infant, a toddler or an older child since the balance and posture of the adult may be maintained more easily and the child 61 may look over the shoulder of the adult 59. It will be clear from Figs. 3A-3C that the cross straps 27A, 27B are easily fastened to the fasteners 31A, 31B on the front side of the main body and thus in front of the wearer 59.

Fig. 4 shows folding downward the upper portion 37 of the head support 35, for which the left and right upper head support fasteners 41A, 41B are first undone. Likewise, the lower head support portion 39 may be folded down as well. To maintain the upper portions 37 down and parallel to the lower portion 39, one or more fasteners, e.g. a pushing button and/or hook-and-loop type fasteners may be provided on the carrier, e.g. one portion (e.g. loops) on the upper portion 37 and another portion (e.g. hooks) on the lower portion 39.

Alternatively and indicated here, the lower head support fasteners 43A, 34B may be used to fasten the upper head support portion 37 as well. In different embodiments, the head support portions may be provided with eyelets or slits through which cords or and/or straps may be fed. In case the left and right upper and/or head support fasteners 41A-43B are

adjustable, a cup-shape may be provided for gently holding the head of the carried child. Conversely, the head support may be pulled taut to support the head e.g. to prevent shaking and to spare the neck muscles of the child.

Figs. 5A-5C indicate, similar to Figs. 2A-3C use of the head cover 45. In Fig. 5A is indicated that the left and left and right head cover fasteners 53A, 53B, which are provided at the ends of the right head cover straps 51A, 51B, may be undone from the lower left and right fasteners 55A, 55B on the waist band 19 of the child carrier 1, and that they may be fastened on the upper left and right fasteners 57A, 57B provided on the left and right upper shoulder band portions 13A, 13B (dashed arrows VA-VB) . Thus, the head cover 45 may be pulled from a storage position in which the head cover 45 lies against the main body 3 (Figs. 5A-5B) to a position in which at least part of the head of the child 61 is covered (Fig. 5C) . The latter position is also possible with the child 61 carried in front of the wearer 59 (cf. Figs. 2A-2C) . The straps 51A, 51B may be adjustable to adjust the shape and/or any tension in the head portion 45.

Fig. 6 indicates another child carrier 1' comprising a main body 62. This child carrier 1' comprises left and right continuous straps 63A, 63B which are fixed with one end to the left and right sides 9A, 9B of the main body 62, respectively. From there, the continuous straps 63A, 63B extend to the left and right upper shoulder strap portions 13A, 13B,

respectively, to which they are attached with fasteners 65A, 65B, here in the form of fixing slide buckles. Thus, the continuous straps 63A, 63B form a lower portion 71A, 71B of a shoulder strap 11A, 11B which comprises an upper portion 13A, 13B, and a lower portion 71A, 71B, respectively. On each upper shoulder strap portion 13A, 13B, an optional guide the continuous straps 63A, 63B may be provided, here in the form of a sleeve portion 67A, 67B is provided through which the continuous straps 63A, 63B may extend as shown.

The continuous straps 63A, 63B further are attached to left and right upper fasteners 69A, 69B, respectively, attached to the upper shoulder strap portions 13A, 13B, and here comprising D-rings . From the upper fasteners 69A, 69B, the continuous straps 63A, 63B extend as left and right cross straps 27A, 27B, respectively, having free ends provided with left and right fasteners 33A, 33B, which match the first left and right fasteners 29B, 29A on the left and right sides 9A, 9B of the main body 62, respectively. Here, the fasteners 29A, 33B and 29B, 33A are matching portions of snap-buckles.

Thus, each continuous strap 63A, 63B, provides a lower portion 71A, 71B of a shoulder strap 11A, 11B as well as a cross strap portion 27A, 27B.

The fasteners 65A, 65B allow adjustment of the continuous straps 63A, 63B attached thereto to adjust the length of the shoulder straps 11A, 11B. The lengths of the left and right cross straps 27A, 27B may be adjusted by adjustment of the positions of the respective adjustable fasteners 33A, 33B along (the cross strap portions 27A, 27B of) the continuous straps 63A, 63B.

Fig. 7 shows a variant to the carrier 1' of Fig. 6, wherein the left and right continuous straps 63A, 63B are attached with to the left and right sides 9A, 9B of the main body 62, respectively, with left and right lower fasteners 73A, 73B, respectively, here in the form of fixing slide buckles, to facilitate individual length adjustment of the shoulder straps 11A, 11B, and the cross straps 27A, 27B. The left and right lower fasteners 73A, 73B, may be openable, e.g. snap buckles.

Figs. 8A-8B show a further variant of a child carrier

1' , wherein the left continuous straps 63A is attached to and extends from the left upper shoulder strap portion 13A to the left side of the main body 62, in particular to a left lower fastener 73A, and from there it extends to the left upper shoulder strap portions 13A again and continues as in Figs. 6 and 7, however without the fastener 65A. Similar holds for the right continuous strap 63B. Thus, in this embodiment the left and right continuous straps 63A, 63B form looped double strap portions 75A, 75A' and 75B, 75B' , respectively, providing lower shoulder strap portions 71A, 71B. The lower fasteners 73A, 73B and/or the upper fasteners 69A, 69B if appropriately formed may allow length adjustment of the continuous straps 63A, 63B to facilitate length adjustment of the shoulder straps 11A, 11B, and the upper fasteners 69A, 69B and/or the cross strap fasteners 33A, 33B allow length adjustment of the continuous straps 63A, 63B to facilitate length adjustment of the cross straps 27A, 27B.

The child carriers 1 of Figs. 1-5 all comprise a main body 3 of substantially fixed width between the left and right sides 9A, 9B. The child carriers 1' of Figs. 6-8B all comprise a main body 62 which provides a torso supporting portion 77 and a seating portion 79 for the child wherein the width of the seating portion 79 is adjustable. The carriers 1 of Figs. 6-8B further comprise a head support portion 35 as before.

From comparing Figs 8A and 8B it may be seen that the seating portion 79 comprises left and right adjustment

portions 81A, 81B which are adjustable with respect to the main body 62 in a first configuration (Fig. 8A) and a second configuration (Fig. 8B) , here by partly detaching left and right adjustment portions 81A, 81B from the main body 62 by opening fasteners which here are provided as left and right zippers 83. Further fasteners, e.g. zippers may be provided to fully remove the adjustment portions 81A, 81B from the carrier 1. Fasteners are preferably, as shown here, covered by

(possibly padded) fabric for user comfort. An optional pocket 85 is provided on the child carrier 1' for storing objects. In an embodiment with fully detachable adjustment portions 81A, 81B these may be stored in such pocket.

In the first configuration (Fig. 8A) the seating portion 79 has a first width which is relatively wide and substantially constant throughout the seating portion 79 from the waist band 19 to the torso supporting portion 77.

In the second configuration (Fig. 8B) the seating portion is partly narrowed with respect to the first

configuration, providing a substantially diabolo-shaped seating portion 79 with a gradually varying width, here substantially linearly varying, providing a relatively narrow portion 87 between a first relatively wide portion 89

extending towards the waist strap 19 and a second relatively wide portion extending towards the torso supporting portion. The separation between the narrow portion 87 and the waist band 19 provided by the first relatively wide portion 89 is sufficiently long and the width of the first relatively wide portion 89 are arranged to correspond to the general anatomy of a young child so that in the facing-forward position the child' s bottom is supported by the first relatively wide portion 89 and the legs may easily fit the relatively narrow portion 87 which provides a proper crotch portion. It should be noted that by relaxing or tightening the shoulder straps 11A, 11B, and/or cross straps 27A, 27B, a curvature of the main body 62 may be varied and, in combination with the size and weight of the child, the carrier 1' may be fitted

agreeably to the child.

Comparing Figs. 9A-10B the differences between carrying a child in the carrier in front of a wearer in a facing-forward position in a carrier 1 having a wide seating portion (Figs. 9A-9B) and a carrier 1' having a partly narrowed seating portion 79 according to Figs. 7-8B (Figs. 10A-10B) become visible. The carrier according to Figs. 6-8B providing a waisted seating portion allows the child 61 to hold the legs closer together (Fig. 10B versus Fig. 9B) whereas the child' s bottom is more appropriately supported (Fig. 10A versus Fig. 9A) .

In Fig. 8B may be seen that the partly detached adjustment portions (here the right adjustment portion 81B for example) may be folded over away from the child so as not to interfere with the child. The folded-away portion may be stored in a fold or pleat 93 of the seating portion 79 to prevent the adjustment portion from dangling and/or flapping. Also or alternatively, one or more fasteners may be provided on the main body 62 and/or the adjustment portions 81A, 81B, to fasten at least part of the adjustment portions 81A, 81B to the main body 62.

Figs. 11-12C show another carrier 1" comprising a main body 95 which is similar to the main body 62 of the carrier 1' of Figs. 6-8B, including the optional head rest 35. The carrier 1" comprises a waist band 19 connected with a lower side of the main body 95 as before and left and right shoulder straps 11A", 11B" which are connected with left and right releasable fasteners 97A, 97B, respectively, to an upper side of the main body 95. Further, the carrier 1" comprises an abdominal strap 99, comprising a relatively wide middle portion 101, here also being padded. The left and right shoulder straps 11A", 11B" are connected with the abdominal strap 99 in the middle portion, converging to each other so that an acute angle a is formed between the abdominal strap and each shoulder straps.

The abdominal strap 99 comprises relatively narrow left and right first fasteners 103A, 103B which are releasably connectable with mated left and right second fasteners 105A, 105B attached to the main body 95 on left and right sides thereof, respectively, and which facilitate length adjustment of the abdominal strap 99. It is noted that the abdominal strap may have a substantially constant width, thickness and/or padding. The left and right second fasteners 105A, 105B are connected with the main body 65 in a position of about half the height of the main body 95 including the head rest 35, or about 1/5 from the upper side of the main body 95 proper, not counting the head rest 35, so that the abdominal strap is connected between the connection positions of the shoulder straps 11A", 11B" and the waist strap 19 with the main body 95.

When thus connected with the main body 95, the middle portion 101 of the abdominal strap 99 is arranged

substantially opposite the main body 95, and the abdominal strap 99 is configured to encircle, in use, the abdomen of a wearer (see Figs. 12A-12C) . Here, the abdominal strap 99 comprises a left and right strap portion 107A, 107B,

respectively, connected together with a suitable releasable fastener 109, here a zipper, so that the abdominal strap 99 is also openable in the middle portion 101.

Instead of two fasteners 105A, 105B only one may be provided, the abdominal strap being fixed to the main body. Then, still, putting on the carrier with the main body in front is significantly facilitated and outside help to fasten a fastener behind the wearer's back is not needed. Otherwise, if the abdominal band would be fixed to both sides of the main body, a middle portion opening 109 could be used.

The left and right shoulder straps 11A", 11B" each comprise an upper portion 13A", 13B", and a lower portion 15A", 15B", respectively, which are connectable with each other with fasteners 17A", 17B", respectively, with which the shoulder straps 11A", 11B may be opened and/or length

adjusted. Similarly, the shoulder bands 11A", 11B" comprise a further portion 111A and 111B connecting the upper portions 13A", 13B" with the upper side of the main body 95 with the left and right releasable fasteners 97A, 97B, which also facilitate length adjustment of the shoulder straps 11A", 11B".

Different arrangements of fasteners and/or length adjusters, e.g. one or more fasteners linking the shoulder straps 11A", 11B" to the abdominal strap, may be provided.

Best seen in Figs. 12A-12C, in use for carrying a child 61 in front of the wearer 59, the shoulder straps 11A", 11B" extend over the wearer's shoulders, the waist strap 19 encircles the wearer's waist and the abdominal strap 99 encircles the wearer's abdomen, e.g. just underneath the thorax, such that the middle portion 101 is arranged on the wearer's back in a position between the middle portion of the waist strap 19 and at about 2/3 down from the tops T of the shoulder straps 11A", 11B", which are located on the wearer's shoulders adjacent the wearer's neck.

The effect of the different strap arrangements of the prior art, and as provided herein may be best seen from the sketches of Figs. 13A-13C. Fig 13A indicates the upper body B and shoulder S of a wearer 59 carrying in its front a child 61 in a conventional child carrier with shoulder straps and a waist strap. Similarly, Fig. 13B indicates use of a baby carrier with cross straps according to Figs. 1-lOB, and Fig. 13C indicates use of a baby carrier according to Figs. 11-12C. In the conventional baby carrier (Fig. 13A) , the main weight of the baby, considered in the centre of gravity G is carried by the shoulders. The waist band mainly controls the position of the baby and only supports a small fraction of the weight. In the improved carrier with cross straps 27, as outlined above, distribution of the load over the shoulders and upper torso is improved (next to facilitating donning the carrier) . The carrier of Figs. 11-12C however, (Fig. 13C) the abdominal strap 99 provides a significant substantially horizontal component to the forces supporting the load, lifting force from the shoulders, and a redistribution of the weight over a significantly larger portion of the torso is achieved.

Moreover, generally the abdominal musculature is followed providing a more "natural" feeling when carrying the load. The abdominal strap 99 may be connected with the main body at about the height of the load' s centre of gravity for improved force distribution. Also, adjusting the length of the

abdominal strap more accurately reflects a redistribution of the forces on the main body 95 and thus improves options for adjustment of the main body 95 for comfort of a carried child 61. E.g., when comparing Figs. 12C and 13A-13C, it will be understood that reduction of the horizontal force component on the shoulder bands 11A' , 11B' , allows reduction of the

pressure on the child's head against the wearer's chest, in particular when carrying a baby or an infant. Support for the child's head may further be adjusted with the head rest 35, which may be largely independent from (forces on) the child's torso .

The acute angle of each shoulder strap 11A' , 11B' with respect the abdominal strap 99 provides a diagonal force component on the shoulder straps and (the middle portion 101 of) the abdominal band, assisting maintaining the shoulder band and the middle portion in place. The same holds for carrying a load on the back with the carrier of Figs. 11-12C.

If desired the left and right shoulder bands may be attached to the opposite side of the main body or the

abdominal band and/or worn cross-wise as indicated with broken lines in Fig. 12B, e.g. with appropriate cross-fastening of the respective parts of fasteners 97A-97B, which may be facilitated if the connections of the shoulder straps 11A' , 11B' to the abdominal strap 99 comprise one or more hinging members, e.g. one or more loops, (D-) rings and/or rotary fasteners .

Also, the shoulder bands 11A" 11B" may be interconnected with a cross connection, e.g. with two cross straps as set out above.

In the carriers of Figs. 6-8B and 11-12B the waist band 19 and the main body 62 may comprise a unitary piece of fabric, and they may be at least partly padded. This also holds for the abdominal strap.

The invention is not restricted to the above- described embodiments, which can be varied in a number of ways within the scope of the claims. For instance more, less, and/or differently positioned fasteners may be provided.

Further, the child carrier may comprise one or more pockets; best seen in Fig. 12A one or more hand pockets (possibly open to opposite sides as a tunnel or sleeve) may be serve for supporting and/or warming a wearer's hand when comforting a carried child.

The main body may be shaped differently, e.g. more trapezoidal. Further, shaping folds, pleats, and/or seams etc. may be provided, e.g. to provide a curved portion. The child carrier may comprise a rigid frame and/or one or more

(arrangements for containing) inserts or extensions, e.g. to adapt the carrier to smaller or larger children.

The cross straps need not cross each other. Particular cross strap arrangements and/or main body shapes may be used to benefit separate from each other and/or in combination. E.g., a waist band is not needed to benefit from the provision of cross bands for a carrier with shoulder bands .

More or less adjustment portions may be provided, e.g. for providing narrowed sections of different widths and/or lengths.

The arrangement of straps of the a carrier according to Figs. 11-12C, 13C may be suitably used for use with backpacks, in particular heavy-weight trekking backpacks due to the beneficial weight and force distribution.

Elements and aspects discussed for or in relation with a particular embodiment may be suitably combined with elements and aspects of other embodiments, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Claims

1. A carrier (1'), in particular a child carrier, comprising a main body (62) and left and right shoulder straps (11A, 11B) connected with an upper side of the main body, and further comprising a waist strap (19) connected with a lower side of the main body,

characterised by an abdominal strap connected with left and right sides ( 9A, 9B) of the main body, respectively, between the upper and lower sides for encircling the abdomen of a wearer and providing a middle portion substantially opposite the main body,

the left and right shoulder straps being connected with the abdominal strap in the middle portion.

2. The carrier according to claim 1, wherein the abdominal strap is detachably connected with at least one side of the main body.

3. The carrier according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the abdominal strap is openable in the middle portion between the left and right shoulder straps.

4. The carrier according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one shoulder strap is detachably connected with the abdominal strap and/or at least one

shoulder strap is detachably connected with the main body.

5. The carrier according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the shoulder straps have a top portion

extending, in use, over the shoulders of a wearer, and the waist strap has a middle portion substantially opposite the main body and wherein the middle portion of the abdominal strap is arranged, in use, in a position about halfway the top portion of the shoulder straps and the middle portion of the waist strap or lower.

6. The carrier according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the abdominal strap is connected with the main body in a position between about 1/5 to 1/2 from the top of the height separation between the connection positions of the shoulder straps and the waist strap with the main body.

7. The carrier according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the abdominal strap is widened and/or padded in the middle portion with respect to portions towards the main body.

8. A carrier, in particular a carrier according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a main body (62) configured for carrying a child, left and right shoulder straps (11A, 11B) connected with an upper portion of the main body, respectively, and further comprising a waist strap (19) connected to a lower side of the main body,

wherein the main body provides a torso supporting portion (77) and a seating portion (79) for the child,

wherein the seating portion comprises one or more adjustment portions (81A, 81B) which are adjustable with respect to the main body in a first configuration and a second configuration,

wherein in the first configuration the seating portion has a first width and wherein in the second

configuration the seating portion is partly narrowed with respect to the first configuration, providing a seating portion (79) with a varying width having a relatively narrow portion (87) with a second width arranged away from the waist strap and a first relatively wide portion (89) extending between the relatively narrow portion and the waist strap and a second relatively wide portion extending between the

relatively narrow portion and the torso supporting portion, of the main portion.

9. The carrier (1') according to claim 8, wherein the width of the seating portion (79) is gradually varying.

10. The carrier (1') according to any one of the preceding claims 8-9, wherein one or more adjustment portions (81A, 81B) are partly or fully detachable from at least a portion the main body (62) of the carrier

11. The carrier (1') according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the main body (62) is configured for carrying a child, wherein the main body provides a torso supporting portion (77) and a seating portion (79) for the child, and wherein the torso support portion comprises a hand pocket or sleeve in the torso supporting portion, in

particular on an outside thereof.

12. The carrier (1, 1') according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a main body (62) configured for carrying a child and comprising a head support (35) attached, preferably detachably, to the main body (3, 62) for supporting the head of a child (61) carried in the child carrier.

13. The child carrier (1, 1') according to claim 12, wherein the head support (35) is partly or wholly foldable downward, preferably in one or more predetermined portions (37, 39), and wherein the child carrier comprises one or more fasteners (41A, 41B, 43A, 43B) to hold the support in an unfolded state and in one or more such partially folded-down states .

14. The carrier according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the abdominal strap, the left shoulder strap, the right shoulder strap and the waist strap, where applicable, are length adjustable.