WO2023242021A1

WO2023242021A1 - Bassinet with foldable side walls and methods of using same

Info

Publication number: WO2023242021A1
Application number: PCT/EP2023/065245
Authority: WO
Inventors: Lisa FURULAND KOTSIANIS
Original assignee: Enfant Terrible Design AB
Priority date: 2022-06-14
Filing date: 2023-06-07
Publication date: 2023-12-21

Abstract

A bassinet with foldable sides and methods of using same. The bassinet may include a base; a foldable wall extending vertically about a periphery of the base and defining a recess; and a bottom pad disposed atop the base within the recess.

Description

BASSINET WITH FOLDABLE SIDE WALLS AND METHODS OF USING SAME

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 63/351,907, filed 06/14/2022 and 63/358,943, filed 07/07/2022, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The subject matter of the invention relates generally to child bassinets and/or child care apparatuses and more particularly to a bassinet with foldable sides and methods of using same.

BACKGROUND

Currently, bassinets are available in fixed configurations with little to no flexibility of features and/or utility. Therefore, a more flexible usable bassinet is needed.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, a bassinet with foldable side walls is provided. The bassinet may include a base; a foldable wall extending vertically about a periphery of the base and defining a recess; and a bottom pad disposed atop the base within the recess. The base may further include base supports, wherein the base supports are configured to provide an air gap beneath a bottom surface of the base. The base may further include one or more vent openings formed therein. The foldable wall in an unfolded state may have a height greater than that of the foldable wall in a folded state. The foldable wall may be configured to fold either outward or inward in a downward direction. The foldable wall may be configured such that a portion of the foldable wall may be folded to a folded position while another portion of the foldable wall may be maintained in an unfolded position. The foldable wall may include one or more vent openings formed therein. The bassinet may further include one or more of an inner fabric, outer fabric, and bottom fabric, wherein the inner fabric may cover an inner facing surface of the foldable wall, the outer fabric may cover an outer facing surface of the foldable wall, and the bottom fabric may cover an upper facing surface of the base. The one or more of the inner fabric, outer fabric, and bottom fabric may include the same or different fabrics. The lower portion of the foldable wall may be secured to the base. The lower portion of the foldable wall may be secured to the base by either or both of an adhesive and/or mechanical mechanism. The base may further include one or more attachment points, wherein the one or more attachments points may be configured for attaching one or more accessory components thereto. The base may further include a handle. The bassinet may further include a clamp, wherein the clamp may be configured to fit on an upper rim of the foldable wall in either of a unfolded or folded position.

In another embodiment, a method of folding a bassinet with foldable side walls is provided. The method may include providing a bassinet in a fully unfolded or partially unfolded state. The bassinet may include a base; a foldable wall extending vertically about a periphery of the base and defining a recess; and a bottom pad disposed atop the base within the recess. The method may further include grasping an unfolded portion of the foldable wall; and folding at least that portion of the foldable wall in a downward direction. The method may further include folding all unfolded portions of the foldable wall. The foldable wall may be folded in an outward and downward direction. The foldable wall may be folded in an inward and downward direction. A first portion of the foldable wall may be folded downward and a second portion of the foldable wall may remain in an unfolded state.

In yet another embodiment, a method of unfolding a bassinet with foldable side walls is provided. The method may include providing a bassinet in a fully unfolded or partially unfolded state. The bassinet may include a base; a foldable wall extending vertically about a periphery of the base and defining a recess; and a bottom pad disposed atop the base within the recess. The method may further include grasping a folded portion of the foldable wall; and unfolding at least that portion of the foldable wall in an upward direction. The method may further include unfolding all folded portions of the foldable wall. A first portion of the foldable wall may be unfolded upward and a second portion of the foldable wall may remain in a folded state.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Having thus described the subject matter of the invention in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective views of an example bassinet with foldable sides shown in an unfolded state, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 4, and FIG. 5 illustrate a top view, a bottom view, a side view, and an end view, respectively, of the bassinet with foldable sides shown in FIG. 1 shown in an unfolded state, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 illustrate cross-sectional views of the bassinet with foldable sides shown in FIG. 1 , in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 illustrate a cross-sectional exploded view and an assembled view, respectively, of the bassinet shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 10 and 12 illustrate example exploded views of an example of bassinet walls in relation to a bassinet base of the bassinet shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 11 illustrates an assembled view of an example of bassinet walls in relation to a bassinet base of the bassinet shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 illustrate a side view and a top view, respectively, of an example bassinet base of the bassinet shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 15 illustrates an example portion of bassinet walls in relation to the bassinet base shown in FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of an example of the bassinet with foldable sides shown in FIG. 1 shown in a folded state, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 17, FIG. 18, FIG. 19, and FIG. 20 illustrate a top view, a bottom view, a side view, and an end view, respectively, the bassinet with foldable sides shown in FIG. 1 shown in a folded state, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 21 and FIG. 22 illustrate cross-sectional views of the bassinet with foldable sides shown in FIG. 1 shown in a folded state, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 23 illustrate a perspective view of an example of using the bassinet shown in FIG. 1 in the folded state and holding a child, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 24 and FIG. 25 show detailed drawings of certain portions of the bassinet with foldable sides shown in FIG. 1 and showing example mechanisms for securing a fabric covering thereof, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 26, FIG. 27, and FIG. 28 illustrates perspective views of the bassinet with foldable sides shown in FIG. 1 and including an example toy hanger, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 29 illustrates a flow diagram of an example method of folding the bassinet with foldable sides, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 30 illustrates a flow diagram of an example method of unfolding the bassinet with foldable sides from the folded state, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; FIG. 31 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the bassinet with foldable sides shown in a folded state wherein the walls are folded inward instead of outward, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 32 illustrates a perspective view of an example of the bassinet a partially folded state, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 33 and FIG. 34 illustrate non-limiting examples of the bassinet shown in an unfolded and folded state respectively, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;;

FIG. 35 and FIG. 36 illustrate non-limiting examples of process steps of assembling the bassinet, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 37 illustrates additional views of the bassinet, including an example of an accessory attachment feature, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 38 illustrates additional views of the bassinet including a handle feature, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The subject matter of the invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all embodiments of the subject matter of the invention are shown. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. The subject matter of the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Indeed, many modifications and other embodiments of the subject matter of the invention set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which the subject matter of the invention pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the subject matter of the invention is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.

In some embodiments, the subject matter of the invention provides a bassinet and more particularly a bassinet with foldable sides and methods of using same.

In some embodiments, a bassinet with foldable sides may include foldable bassinet walls mounted atop a bassinet base, and a mattress.

In some embodiments, a bassinet with foldable sides may include foldable bassinet walls mounted atop a plastic bassinet base, and a mattress. In some embodiments, a bassinet with foldable sides may be provided in a substantially oval shape.

In some embodiments, a bassinet with foldable sides may be provided with the bassinet walls folded over, for example, like a shirt collar.

In some embodiments, a bassinet with foldable sides may be provided in a substantially oval shape and wherein the bassinet walls may provide a geometric “lock” when folded.

In some embodiments, a bassinet with foldable sides may be provided with the bassinet walls in an upright or unfolded state.

In some embodiments, a bassinet with foldable sides may be provided with the bassinet walls in a folded state, wherein the walls may be folded outward.

In some embodiments, a bassinet with foldable sides may be provided with the bassinet walls in a folded state, wherein the walls may be folded inward instead of outward which may be advantageous for shipping and/or packaging of the bassinet.

Further, a method of folding the bassinet with foldable sides is provided.

Further, a method of unfolding the bassinet with foldable sides is provided.

The disclosure of the attached Appendix is incorporated herein in its entirety.

Referring now to FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example of a bassinet 100 with foldable sides and shown in an upright or unfolded state, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Further, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 4, and FIG. 5 show a top view, a bottom view, a side view, and an end view, respectively, bassinet 100 shown in FIG. 1 in the unfolded state.

In one example, bassinet 100 may include bassinet walls 110 that may be mounted atop a bassinet base 114. Bassinet base 114 may further include base supports 116 for resting bassinet 100 atop a surface, such as the floor. Base supports 116 may provide integrated “feet” to create, for example, an air gap beneath bassinet base 114. In one example, base supports 116 may provide in the range of about a 25mm air gap between the bottom of the bassinet base 114 and the surface upon which it rests. Base supports 116 may alternatively be adjustable style feet, and may be of (or adjustable to) various heights, and may be of a structure (shape size) different than that of base supports 116 shown in the FIGS. Additionally, an arrangement of openings 113 may be provided in bassinet base 114 to assist in venting the bassinet 100 (see FIG. 3), allowing for increased/improved airfl ow/ventilati on within the bassinet 100. The one or more openings 113 may be of varying, shapes, location, and/or arrangement in the bassinet base 114.

Bassinet base 114 may further include a handle 165, as shown for example in Fig. 38. In one alternate embodiment, bassinet base 114 may further include a self-leveling mechanism (not shown), wherein the self-leveling mechanism is configured to keep the mattress 130 in a leveled orientation.

Bassinet walls 110 may be formed of a flexible material, such as foam 112, or any other suitable material. In one non-limiting example, foam 112 may be an open cell polyurethane foam. Foam 112 may be a foam sheet, cut (e.g., die cut) and shaped to fit (See for example FIG. 35, #1 and #2 respectively). Foam 112 may further be treated and/or produced, such that it is sealed to prevent absorption and/or for ease of cleaning. In another non-limiting example, foam 112 may be a molded foam part, and may be fixed into place in bassinet base 114 using any suitable technique, for example adhesive, snaps, clamps, and/or the like. In yet another nonlimiting example, foam 112 may be an over molded part, for example, foam over injection, molded plastic, direct injection expanded foam molding, and/or the like. Accordingly, bassinet 100 may provide a flexible material enclosure, in that bassinet walls 110 (e.g., foam 112) may be folded over, for example, like a shirt collar.

In another example, bassinet walls 110 may be formed of a 3D mesh fabric material, such as 3D breathable mesh, of suitable thickness and density. In one non-limiting example bassinet walls 110 made of 3D mesh fabric may be in the range of about 20mm to about 25mm thick, or may be of other thickness less than 20mm or greater than 25mm. The 3D mesh fabric material may preferably have high elasticity, be breathable, washable, and/or fire retardant.

In one example, bassinet 100 may be substantially oval-shaped. In an embodiment having a substantially oval-shape, a feature of bassinet 100 is that the oval shape of bassinet 100 may provide a geometric “lock” when folded. This is because the oval shape causes the rim of the bassinet walls 110 to tend to stay locked in the folded position (see FIG. 16 through FIG. 22).

Bassinet walls 110 may further include one or more vent holes 111 formed in the bassinet walls 110. The one or more vent holes 111 may be of varying, shapes, location, and/or arrangement in the bassinet walls 110. Vent holes 111 may allow for increased/improved airfl ow/ventilati on within the inner region of the bassinet 100. Further, vent holes 111 may improve foldability of the bassinet walls 110.

Bassinet walls 110 may further include one or more attachment mechanisms/points formed in or as part of the bassinet walls 110 for attachment of various components, including, but not limited to, toy bar, handles, canopy, netting, legs, rocker stand feature, and/or the like. In other examples, such attachment mechanisms/points may be included in or as part of bassinet base 114 (e.g., attachment points 146). In one example, the inside of bassinet walls 110 may be covered with an inner fabric 118. The outside of bassinet walls 110 may be covered with an outer fabric 120. The floor of bassinet 100 may be covered with a bottom fabric 121. One or more of inner fabric 118, outer fabric 120, and bottom fabric 121 may be the same fabrics or different fabrics. Additionally, a mattress 130 may be installed on the floor of bassinet 100 (e.g., atop bottom fabric 121), and enclosed within bassinet walls 110. Inner fabric 118, outer fabric 120, and bottom fabric 121 may be treated and/or produced, to provide a seal/barrier for foam 112 to prevent them from absorbing and/or for ease of cleaning. Mattress 130 may include a mattress cover, the mattress cover may be of any suitable material. More details of inner fabric 118, outer fabric 120, bottom fabric 121, and mattress 130 are shown hereinbelow with reference to FIG. 8 and FIG. 9.

In one non-limiting example, bassinet 100 may have an overall length in the range of about 747 mm, an overall width in the range of about 485 mm, and an overall height in the range of about 265 mm. Further, the upper inside opening of bassinet 100 may be, in one non-limiting example, in the range of about 641.5 mm long and in the range of about 381.6 mm wide.

Referring now to FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 is cross-sectional views of bassinet 100 shown in FIG. 1 in the unfolded state. For example, FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view taken along a line 6-6 of FIG. 1. FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view taken along a line 7-7 of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 also show more details of bassinet walls 110 and bassinet base 114. For example, FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 show an example interface between the foam 112 that forms bassinet walls 110 and bassinet base 114 (also see FIG. 15).

With respect to an important safety factor, the bassinet walls 110 are suitably firm and of a thickness as to help prevent the sides from conforming to a baby’s nose and/or mouth and presenting a suffocation hazard if a baby were to press their face against the sides. In one example, foam 112 may be in the range from about 12 mm thick to about 77 mm thick in one example, and in one non-limiting example may be about 25 mm thick.

Additionally, bassinet base 114 with base supports 116 may be formed of any strong lightweight material, such as, but not limited to, molded plastic, aluminum, wood, and/or any other suitable material. In one example, the lower edge of foam 112 may be fixed mechanically to bassinet base 114 using, for example but not limited to, base clamps 115, as shown for example in FIG. 15. In another example, an adhesive may be used to affix the lower edge of foam 112 to bassinet base 114. Alternatively, a combination of adhesive and mechanical means, such as but not limited to base clamps 115, may be used to affix the lower edge of foam 112 to bassinet base 114. In one example, bassinet base 114 may be, for example, a smart part and may include integrated/integratable features such as, but not limited to, textile attachment details/point to assist in securing any of inner fabric 118, outer fabric 120, and/or bottom fabric 121 in place (see for example FIGS 24-25), provide a toy arch (e.g., toy hanger 142 as shown for example in FIGS. 26-28) connection point, and/or for an integrated handle. In one non-limiting example, bassinet base 114 may include one or more attachment points 146 (see for example FIGS. 3, 18, 28), wherein various components (e.g., toy hanger 142, handle(s), canopy, netting, and/or the like) may be attached/connected to the bassinet base 114 via the one or more attachment points 146. The one or more attachment points 146, may be any suitable attachment/retaining mechanism and or technique. One or more slots 146 may be positioned in various locations other than as shown in the figures, for example, but not limited to, on one or both ends of the bassinet base 114. In one non-limiting example the one or more of the attachment points 146 may be fully or substantially hidden from view.

Referring now to FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional exploded view and an assembled view, respectively, of bassinet 100 shown in FIG. 1. More specifically, FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 show an example relationship of mattress 130 and inner fabric 118, outer fabric 120, and bottom fabric 121 with bassinet walls 110 mounted atop bassinet base 114. In one non-limiting example, mattress 130 may be formed using polyethylene foam that may be, for example, in the range of about 25 mm thick, or any other suitable material. In one non-limiting example, mattress 130 may assist in holding inner fabric 118 (and/or outer fabric 120, and bottom fabric 121), in a stretched state.

Together, inner fabric 118, outer fabric 120, and bottom fabric 121 may provide a textile cover of bassinet 100. Additionally, inner fabric 118, outer fabric 120, and/or bottom fabric 121 may be printable fabrics. In one example, inner fabric 118 may be a flexible fabric, such as, but not limited to, Lycra®. Lycra® is a type of synthetic fabric that is very elastic. Lycra® is made from a combination of polyester and polyurethane (a flexible plastic material). In one nonlimiting example, outer fabric 120 may be a nonflexible or substantially non-flexible fabric. In another example, inner fabric 118 and/or outer fabric 120 may be a flexible cotton fabric. In one non limiting example, bottom fabric 121 may be a breathing mesh fabric, such as a 3D air mesh fabric, or other suitable fabric. In another non limiting example, bottom fabric 121 may be a sealed textile, which may act as a seal/barrier to protect the foam 112.

Referring now to FIG. 10 and 12 are example exploded views of an example of bassinet walls 110 in relation to a bassinet base 114 of bassinet 100 shown in FIG. 1. Referring now to FIG. 11 is an example assembled view of an example of bassinet walls 110 in relation to a bassinet base 114 of bassinet 100 shown in FIG. 1.

Referring now to FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 show a side view and a top view, respectively, of an example of bassinet base 114 of bassinet 100 shown in FIG. 1. Further, FIG. 18 shows an example of foam 112 that may form bassinet walls 110 in relation to the bassinet base 114 shown in FIG. 14. In this example, the lower edge of foam 112 may be fixed mechanically to bassinet base 114 using, for example, base clamps 115. In one non-limiting example, the base clamps 115 may be screwed (or using any other suitable mechanism and/or technique) to the bassinet base 114 and with the lower edge of foam 112 sandwiched therebetween.

In one non-limiting example, a manufacturing process of bassinet 100 may include, for example but is not limited to, a double injection mold with respect to forming bassinet base 114, along with, for example, over-molded foam 112.

Referring now to FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an example of bassinet 100 with foldable sides shown in FIG. 1 in a folded state, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Further, FIG. 17, FIG. 18, FIG. 19 and FIG. 20 is a top view, a bottom view, a side view, and an end view, respectively, of bassinet 100 shown in FIG. 1 in the folded state. Further, FIG. 21 and FIG. 22 is cross-sectional views of bassinet 100 shown in FIG. 1 in the folded state. More specifically, FIG. 21 shows a cross-sectional view taken along a line 21-21 of FIG. 16. FIG. 22 shows a cross-sectional view taken along a line 22-22 of FIG. 16.

FIG. 16 through FIG. 22 show the bassinet walls 110 of bassinet 100 folded or arched downward/outward. Accordingly, the bassinet walls 110 of bassinet 100 may include a fold or arch 122. Further, fold or arch 122 is a substantially continuous fold or arch around the perimeter of bassinet 100. Again, bassinet walls 110 (e.g., foam 112) may be folded over, for example, like a shirt collar. A feature of bassinet 100 is that fold or arch 122 may provide a geometric “lock.” This is because the rim of the bassinet walls 110 tends to stay locked in the folded position, as shown, for example, in FIG. 16 through FIG. 22.

Further, FIG. 21 and FIG. 22 also show that the outer surface of the folded bassinet walls 110 may be at an angle a with respect to the plane of bassinet base 114. For example, in FIG. 21, the angle a at the ends (i.e., short sides) of bassinet 100 may be about 90 degrees. That is, the folded bassinet walls 110 may be about normal to the plane of bassinet base 114. By contrast, in FIG. 22, the angle a at the sides (i.e., long sides) of bassinet 100 may be equal to or slightly less than about 90 degrees, or alternatively greater than about 90 degrees. That is, the bottom of the folded bassinet walls 110 may be slightly flared out compared with the top of the folded bassinet walls 110. When in the folded state, bassinet 100 provides a more compact space as compared with the upright configuration (i.e., unfolded state) of bassinet 100. That is, in the folded state, bassinet 100 provides a more compact space for a baby or infant while being fully compliant with the bassinet standard when in the upright configuration (i.e., unfolded state). By way of example, FIG. 23 shows an example of bassinet 100 in the folded state and safely holding a baby or infant 150.

Referring again to FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of bassinet 100 shown in FIG. 1 through FIG. 23 and including mechanisms for holding the bassinet walls 110 of bassinet 100 in the folded state. For example, bassinet 100 may include any types of holding mechanisms 140 for holding together the two opposing portions of the folded bassinet walls 110. For example, holding mechanisms 140 may be, but are not limited to, magnets, a hook and loop system (e.g., VELCRO® Brand), snaps, hooks, clamps, clips, and/or the like.

Referring now to FIG. 24 and FIG. 25 is detailed drawings of certain portions of bassinet 100 shown in FIG. 1 through FIG. 23 and including mechanisms for securing the fabrics thereof. For example and referring now to FIG. 24, there may be a ridge seam at the top edge of bassinet walls 110 of where, for example, inner fabric 118 and outer fabric 120 come together. In one example, double stitching may be used, such as two lines of stitching 124. In another example, the top edge of foam 112 may be provided with a guide member 126 to help ensure a precise ridge seam and to secure in place the inner fabric 118 and outer fabric 120. Guide member 126 may be, for example, a plastic or thin foam guide member.

Further, FIG. 25 shows an example method of securing fabrics to the plastic bassinet base 114 of bassinet 100. In this example, the lower edge of outer fabric 120 may be stitched (e.g., stitching 124) or otherwise attached to a plastic member 128 provided at the plastic bassinet base 114 as shown. Openings may be provided in the plastic bassinet base 114 to facilitate this connection.

Referring now to FIG. 26, FIG. 27 and FIG. 28 is perspective views of bassinet 100 with foldable sides shown in FIG. 1 through FIG. 23 and including a toy hanger. For example, a toy hanger 142 may be attached to bassinet base 114 and then reaching upward above bassinet 100 to be in view of a child or infant in bassinet 100. The toy hanger 142 may be arched, and may be made of plastic, wood, or any other suitable material. The toy hanger 142 may be attached to the underside of bassinet base 114 via the one or more attachment points 146, such as, for example, magnets, snaps, slides, clamps, clips, screws, slots, and/or the like. In one non-limiting example, the attachment portion of the toy hanger 142 and/or the associated attachment point 146 may include a magnet to assist in guiding the attachment portion of the toy hanger 142 into the attachment point 146, such as a slot.

FIG. 26 shows toy hanger 142 with bassinet 100 in the open or unfolded state. FIG. 27 shows toy hanger 142 with bassinet 100 in the folded state. FIG. 28 shows a side view of bassinet 100 in the open or unfolded state and having toy hanger 142 with toys 144 attached thereto. In one example, the toy hanger 142 may be flexible, for example, such that the walls 110 of the foldable bassinet 100 can be folded with the arch attached to bassinet base 114. That is, the toy hanger 142 may flex outward to allow the walls 110 of the foldable bassinet 100 to be folded.

Referring now to FIG. 29 is a flow diagram of an example of a method 200 of folding bassinet 100 with foldable sides shown in FIG. 1 through FIG. 28, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Method 200 may include, but is not limited to, the following steps.

At a step 210, the bassinet with foldable sides may be provided in an upright or unfolded state. For example, bassinet 100 may be provided in the open or unfolded state, as shown in FIG. 1 through FIG. 18.

At a step 215, at, for example, one end of the bassinet, a user may grasp the edge of the foldable walls of bassinet and begins folding the sides outward and downward in arching fashion. For example, at, for example, one end of bassinet 100, a user may grasp the edge of the bassinet walls 110 of bassinet 100 and begins folding the bassinet walls 110 outward and downward in arching fashion.

At a step 220, a user continues folding the sides of the bassinet outward and downward while progressing around the perimeter of the bassinet until the entire perimeter of the bassinet is folded outward and downward in arching fashion. For example, a user continues folding the bassinet walls 110 of bassinet 100 outward and downward, progressing around the perimeter of bassinet 100 until the entire perimeter of the bassinet walls 110 is folded outward and downward in arching fashion. For example, FIG. 16 through FIG. 23 show bassinet 100 in the fully folded state.

Generally, in method 200, folding bassinet walls 110 of bassinet 100 should be easy for a user. For example, folding starting at one end (e.g., step 215) and working around the perimeter (e.g., step 220). The folding motion “snaps” or “locks” the fold into place. In so doing, bassinet 100 may be in a stable folded position and provides a good visual shape. Referring now to FIG. 30 is a flow diagram of an example of a method 300 of unfolding bassinet 100 with foldable sides, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Method 300 may include, but is not limited to, the following steps.

At a step 310, the bassinet with foldable sides may be provided in a folded state. For example, bassinet 100 may be provided in the folded state, as shown in FIG. 16 through FIG. 23.

At a step 315, at, for example, one end of the bassinet, a user grasps the edge of the folded walls of bassinet and begins unfolding the sides upward and inward. For example, at, for example, one end of bassinet 100, a user grasps the edge of the folded bassinet walls 110 of bassinet 100 and begins unfolding the bassinet walls 110 upward and inward.

At a step 320, a user continues unfolding the sides of the bassinet upward and inward while progressing around the perimeter of the bassinet until the entire perimeter of the bassinet is unfolded. For example, a user continues unfolding the bassinet walls 110 of bassinet 100 upward and inward, progressing around the perimeter of bassinet 100 until the entire perimeter of the bassinet walls 110 is unfolded. Thereby returning bassinet 100 to the fully open or unfolded state as shown, for example, in FIG. 1 through FIG. 15.

Referring now to FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of bassinet 100 with foldable sides, wherein the sides are folded inward instead of outward, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. That is, bassinet 100 is not limited to being folded outward only, as shown for example in FIG. 16. In other embodiments, the bassinet walls 110 of bassinet 100 may be folded inward, as shown in FIG. 31. In a configuration, wherein the bassinet walls 110 are folded inward, the surface area available for a baby to occupy is reduced as compared to the configuration where the bassinet walls 110 are folded outward. In another embodiment, bassinet 100 may include a removable/detachable cushioned insert (not shown), wherein with the cushioned insert in place the surface area available for a baby to occupy is reduced (e.g., for use with infants/ smaller babies), and with the cushioned insert removed the surface area available for a baby to occupy is increased (e.g., for use with older/larger babies). In one non-limiting example, the cushioned insert may be generally U-shaped, and may be configured to fit about at least a portion of an inner periphery of the bassinet walls 110. The cushioned insert may be, for example, made of a breathable material, such as, but not limited to, a breathable mesh material, or other suitable material.

In other embodiments, all the bassinet walls 110 of bassinet 100 may be folded inward, for example, like lids of a cardboard box or as a double fold like a collar folded inward for shipping, packaging, and/or storage purposes. FIG. 32 is a perspective view of an example of bassinet 100 with foldable sides shown in FIG. 1 in a partially folded state, for example while in the process of folding side walls 110 down, e.g., at step 215 of method 200.

FIG. 33 and FIG. 34 illustrate non-limiting examples of the bassinet shown in FIG. 1 and 16 respectively.

FIG. 35 and FIG. 36 illustrate non-limiting examples of example manufacturing process steps of assembling various components of the bassinet 100. For example, referring to FIG. 35, at #1, foam 112 may be a foam sheet, cut (e.g., die cut). At #2, the cut foam 112 may be shaped to form bassinet walls 110. At #3, a first portion of bassinet base 114 (114a) may be provided and bassinet walls 110 mounted thereto. At #5, a second portion of bassinet base 114 (114b) may be provided and mounted to the first portion of bassinet base 114 (114a).

For example, referring to FIG. 35, at #1, bassinet base 114 may be provided. At #2, bassinet walls 110 may be set into and mounted/attached to bassinet base 114. At #3, bassinet walls 110 may be covered with fabric, for example, the inner walls may be covered with an inner fabric 118, the outside walls may be covered with an outer fabric 120, and/or the floor may be covered with a bottom fabric 121. Additionally, mattress 130 may be installed on the floor of bassinet 100 (e.g., atop bottom fabric 121).

FIG. 37 illustrates an example embodiment of the bassinet 100, including an example of an accessory feature, for example accessory clip 160. In one non-limiting example, accessory clip 160 may be sized and configure to attach to the bassinet walls 110 in either a folded (see for example Fig. 37) or in an unfolded state. Accessory clip 160 may be used to attach other accessories, such as for example toys 144.

FIG. 38 illustrates the bassinet including a handle 165 feature.

Following long-standing patent law convention, the terms “a,” “an,” and “the” refer to “one or more” when used in this application, including the claims. Thus, for example, reference to “a subject” includes a plurality of subjects, unless the context clearly is to the contrary (e.g., a plurality of subjects), and so forth.

Throughout this specification and the claims, the terms “comprise,” “comprises,” and “comprising” are used in a non-exclusive sense, except where the context requires otherwise. Likewise, the term “include” and its grammatical variants are intended to be non-limiting, such that recitation of items in a list is not to the exclusion of other like items that can be substituted or added to the listed items.

For the purposes of this specification and appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, sizes, dimensions, proportions, shapes, formulations, parameters, percentages, quantities, characteristics, and other numerical values used in the specification and claims, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about” even though the term “about” may not expressly appear with the value, amount or range. Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the following specification and attached claims are not and need not be exact, but may be approximate and/or larger or smaller as desired, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like, and other factors known to those of skill in the art depending on the desired properties sought to be obtained by the subject matter of the invention. For example, the term “about,” when referring to a value can be meant to encompass variations of, in some embodiments ± 100%, in some embodiments ± 50%, in some embodiments ± 20%, in some embodiments ± 10%, in some embodiments ± 5%, in some embodiments ± 1%, in some embodiments ± 0.5%, and in some embodiments ± 0.1% from the specified amount, as such variations are appropriate to perform the disclosed methods or employ the disclosed compositions.

Further, the term “about” when used in connection with one or more numbers or numerical ranges, should be understood to refer to all such numbers, including all numbers in a range and modifies that range by extending the boundaries above and below the numerical values set forth. The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers, e.g., whole integers, including fractions thereof, subsumed within that range (for example, the recitation of 1 to 5 includes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, as well as fractions thereof, e.g., 1.5, 2.25, 3.75, 4.1, and the like) and any range within that range.

Although the foregoing subject matter has been described in some detail by way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity of understanding, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that certain changes and modifications can be practiced within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

THAT WHICH IS CLAIMED:

1. A bassinet, comprising: a. a base; b. a foldable wall extending vertically about a periphery of the base and defining a recess; and c. a bottom pad disposed atop the base within the recess.

2. The bassinet of claim 1, wherein the base further comprises base supports, wherein the base supports are configured to provide an air gap beneath a bottom surface of the base.

3. The bassinet of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the base further comprises one or more vent openings formed therein.

4. The bassinet of any one of claims 1, 2 and 3, wherein the foldable wall in an unfolded state has a height greater than that of the foldable wall in a folded state.

5. The bassinet of any preceding claim, wherein the foldable wall is configured to fold either outward or inward in a downward direction.

6. The bassinet of any preceding claim, wherein the foldable wall is configured such that a portion of the foldable wall can be folded to a folded position while another portion of the foldable wall is maintained in an unfolded position.

7. The bassinet of any preceding claim, wherein the foldable wall comprises one or more vent openings formed therein.

8. The bassinet of any preceding claim, further comprising one or more of an inner fabric, outer fabric, and bottom fabric, wherein the inner fabric covers an inner facing surface of the foldable wall, the outer fabric covers an outer facing surface of the foldable wall, and the bottom fabric covers an upper facing surface of the base.

9. The bassinet of claim 8, wherein one or more of the inner fabric, outer fabric, and bottom fabric comprises the same or different fabrics.

10. The bassinet of any preceding claim, wherein a lower portion of the foldable wall is secured to the base.

11. The bassinet of claim 10, wherein the lower portion of the foldable wall is secured to the base by either or both of an adhesive and/or mechanical mechanism.

12. The bassinet of any preceding claim, wherein the base further comprises one or more attachment points, wherein the one or more attachments points are configured for attaching one or more accessory components thereto.

13. The bassinet of any preceding claim, wherein the base further comprises a handle.

14. The bassinet of any preceding claim, further comprises a clamp, wherein the clamp is configured to fit on an upper rim of the foldable wall in either of a unfolded or folded position.

15. A method of folding a bassinet with foldable sides, the method comprising: d. providing a bassinet in a fully unfolded or partially unfolded state, the basinet comprising: i. a base; ii. a foldable wall extending vertically about a periphery of the base and defining a recess; and iii. a bottom pad disposed atop the base within the recess; e. grasping an unfolded portion of the foldable wall; and f. folding at least that portion of the foldable wall in a downward direction.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising folding all unfolded portions of the foldable wall.

17. The method of claim 15 or claim 16, wherein the foldable wall is folded in an outward and downward direction.

18. The method of any one of claims 15, 16 and 17, wherein the foldable wall is folded in an inward and downward direction.

19. The method of any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein a first portion of the foldable wall is folded downward and a second portion of the foldable wall remains in an unfolded state.

20. A method of unfolding a bassinet with foldable sides, the method comprising: g. providing a bassinet in a fully folded or partially folded state, the basinet comprising: i. a base; ii. a foldable wall extending vertically about a periphery of the base and defining a recess; and iii. a bottom pad disposed atop the base within the recess; h. grasping a folded portion of the foldable wall; and i. unfolding at least that portion of the foldable wall in an upward direction.

21. The method of claim 20, further comprising unfolding all folded portions of the foldable wall.

22. The method of claim 20 or claim 21, wherein a first portion of the foldable wall is unfolded upward and a second portion of the foldable wall remains in a folded state.