Embodiments disclosed herein are generally related to child containment systems, such as a playard, and more particularly to apparatuses and methods for a foldable child containment system.
Playards and other child containment systems can be configured to be folded for storage. However, conventional playards typically require multiple hands and the engagement or disengagement of multiple mechanisms in order to fully adjust the playard from a use configuration to a folded configuration. This can be difficult to do if the user is trying to fold the playard alone and/or has limited range of motion, such as for reaching into the playard to pull the middle section upward for folding. Further, this can be difficult for those who are limited to the amount of weight or force they can sustain during the folding and unfolding process.
For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure and certain features thereof, reference is now made to the following description, in conjunction with the accompanying figures briefly described as follows:
Example embodiments now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which example embodiments are shown. The concepts claimed and described herein may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the example embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like, but not necessarily the same, elements throughout.
Certain dimensions and features of the example foldable child containment systems are described herein using the term “approximately.” As used herein, the term “approximately” indicates that each of the described dimensions is not a strict boundary or parameter and does not exclude functionally similar variations therefrom. Unless context or the description indicates otherwise, the use of the term “approximately” in connection with a numerical parameter indicates that the numerical parameter includes variations that, using mathematical and industrial principles accepted in the art (e.g., rounding, measurement or other systematic errors, manufacturing tolerances, etc.), would not vary the least significant digit.
In addition, certain relationships are described herein using the term “substantially.” As used herein, the terms “substantially” and “substantially equal” indicates that the equal relationship is not a strict relationship and does not exclude functionally similar variations therefrom. Unless context or the description indicates otherwise, the use of the term “substantially” or “substantially equal” in connection with two or more described dimensions or elements indicates that the equal relationship between the dimensions or elements includes variations that, using mathematical and industrial principles accepted in the art (e.g., rounding, measurement or other systematic errors, manufacturing tolerances, etc.), would not vary the least significant digit of the dimensions or elements. As used herein, the term “substantially constant” indicates that the constant relationship is not a strict relationship and does not exclude functionally similar variations therefrom. As used herein, the term “substantially parallel” indicates that the parallel relationship is not a strict relationship and does not exclude functionally similar variations therefrom.
In one example, the frame assembly can include opposing top rail overhangs 102 disposed along the top portion of the corresponding end walls. The frame assembly can further include a first top rail 104A and a second top rail 106A, each rotatably coupled to and extending from opposing ends of one of the top rail overhangs 102. The other top rail overhang 102 can include corresponding first 104B and second 106B top rails rotatably coupled to the top rail overhang. Each of the first top rails 104A, 104B and second top rails 106A, 106B can have a first end that is rotatably coupled to the corresponding end of one of the top rail overhangs and an opposing end that is operably coupled to one of a pair of rail locking mechanisms 118A, 118B. In one embodiment, the rail locking mechanisms 118A, 118B are disposed substantially at the midpoint of each of the main walls.
In one example, the top rails 104A, 106A, 104B, 106B, top rail overhangs 102 and the rail locking mechanisms 118A, 118B collectively define a top end of the child containment area. In certain example embodiments, each of the top rails 104A, 106A, 104B, 106B and overhangs 102 can be constructed in whole or in part from metal or plastic rod or tubing. In certain example embodiments, each of the top rails 104A, 106A, 104B, and 106B and top rail overhangs 102 can have a circular or substantially circular cross-sectional shape. In one example, the circular or substantially circular cross-sectional shape can increase the ease of slidably inserting and passing the top rails 104A, 106A, 104B, and 106B through one or more channels along the top end of the fabric or other soft goods material 122.
The playard 100 can also include a pair of vertical support systems 116. Each vertical support system 116 can be operatively coupled along a top end to one or more top hinges 128 and along an opposing bottom end to a horizontal leg support 108. In one example, each vertical support system 116 can be vertically extending and located adjacent one of the corresponding end walls of the playard 100. The vertical support system can be configured to provide vertical support for the top rails 104A, 106A, 104B, and 106B with respect to the bottom rail support system 120.
Each horizontal leg support 108 can include a horizontally or substantially horizontally extending support member 108 that can be coupled to a bottom end of the vertical support system 116. In one example embodiment, one of the horizontal leg supports 108 can include a first leg 110 disposed at and extending vertically downward from one end of the support 108 and a second leg 110 disposed at and extending vertically downward from an opposing second end of the support 108. Each of the legs 110 can be configured to rest along the ground or other surface. In one example embodiment, the other of the horizontal leg supports 108 can include a first wheel support 112 and wheel 114 disposed at and extending vertically downward from one end of the support 108 and a second wheel support 112 and wheel 114 disposed at and extending vertically downward from an opposing second end of the support 108. Each of the wheels 114 can be configured to roll along the ground or other surface.
Each horizontal leg support 108 can also include one or more bottom rail support hinges 424 and 426 and one or more fold support hinges 130. Each bottom rail support hinge can be coupled to the horizontal leg support 108 and/or the vertical support system 116 and rotatably coupled to at least a portion of the bottom rail support system 120. The one or more fold support hinges 130 can be coupled to the horizontal leg support and rotatably coupled to a fold support member 416 (see
Each of the ends of the top rails 104A, 104B (and corresponding 106A and 106B) can include a slotted opening 250 disposed through a portion of the end of the respective top rail and extending along the longitudinal axis of the respective top rail. The rail locking mechanism 118A can also include a slide plate 202 that can be at least partially disposed within the respective slotted openings of each of the top rails 104A, 104B (and corresponding 106A and 106B for mechanism 118B). The slide plate 202 can include a first enclosed slot 204 for receiving the first rivet 208 of the top rail 104A and a second enclosed slot 206 for receiving the first rivet 210 of the top rail 104B. Each of the first enclosed slot 204 and second enclosed slot 206 can extend generally in the longitudinal direction of the top rails 104A, 104B when the playard 100 is in the use configuration. Each of the first enclosed slot 204 and the second enclosed slot 206 are configured to maintain each of the top rail 104A and top rail 104B in slidable connection with the rail locking mechanism 118A.
The rail locking mechanism 118A, 118B can also include a first locking slot 212 and a second locking slot 216. The first locking slot 212 can be configured to receive the second rivet 220 of the top rail 104A. The first locking slot 212 can include an exit aperture disposed along a portion of the bottom end of the first locking slot 212 for allowing the second rivet 220 to exit the first locking slot 212 when the playard 100 is being adjusted from the use configuration to the folded configuration, as shown in
The second locking slot 216 can be configured to receive the second rivet 222 of the top rail 104B. The second locking slot 216 can include an exit aperture disposed along a portion of the bottom end of the second locking slot 216 for allowing the second rivet 222 to exit the second locking slot 216 when the playard 100 is being adjusted from the use configuration to the folded configuration, as shown in
The rail locking mechanism 118A, 118B can also include a cable attachment aperture 224 for attaching a cable (not shown) thereto. The cable can extend through an internal passageway of the top rail 104A and another cable or the same cable can also extend through the internal passageway of the top rail 106A from the corresponding cable attachments 224 of the rail locking mechanisms 118A, 118B to a rail release mechanism, described hereinafter. The rail release mechanism can cause tension in the cable (or each of the cables) that pulls the corresponding rail locking mechanisms 118A, 118B in the direction “A” from a locked position to an unlocked position. In the unlocked position, the second rivets 220, 222 can pass through the corresponding exit apertures for each of the respective first locking slot 212 and second locking slot 216. Once the second rivets 220, 222 pass through the corresponding exit apertures, each corresponding top rail 104A, 104B can rotate from a generally horizontal position to a vertical or substantially vertical position as the playard 100 is adjusted into the folded configuration, as shown in
Each rail locking mechanism 118A, 118B can also include a spring biasing mechanism (not shown) coupled to the slide plate 202. The spring biasing mechanism can bias the slide plate 202 into the locked position. The rail locking mechanism 118A, 118B can also include a top cover plate or saddle 230 that is disposed over at least a portion of the top surface of the corresponding rail locking mechanism 118A, 118B. The saddle 230 can be configured to limit access to the portion of the mechanism 118A, 118B where the ends of the top rails 104A, 104B or 106A, 106B come close to one-another in the use configuration and create a potential pinch point. Similarly, each rail locking mechanism 118A, 118B can also include a pair of side plates 232, each disposed on opposing lateral sides of the top rails 104A, 104B or 106A, 106B. In one example embodiment, the side plates 232 can be movably coupled to the top rail 104A via the first rivet 208 and to the top rail 104B via the first rivet 210. The rail locking mechanism 118B and top rails 106A, 106B are configured in substantially the same manner.
Each webbing support 302A, 302B can have it first end coupled to the top rail overhang 102 behind or outside of the top end hinges 128 and the corresponding distal second ends coupled to a portion of the bottom rail support system 120 that is rotatably coupled to one or more of the bottom end hinges 424, 426 (
The bottom rail support system 120 can include a main bottom rail 402 having a first end 404 and a second end 406. The main bottom rail 402 can include a portion between the first end 404 and second end 406 that extends substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis of the leg support 108. This portion can be rotatably coupled to the horizontal leg support 108 by way of one or more hinges, such as bottom rail support hinges 424, 426. The bottom rail support hinges 424, 426 are configured to rotate the main bottom rail 402 from a substantially horizontal position when the playard 100 is in a use configuration to a vertical or substantially vertical orientation when the playard 100 is in the folded configuration, as shown in
The bottom rail support system 120 can also include a fold support member 416 having a first end 418 and a distal second end 420. In one example embodiment, the fold support member 416 can have a longitudinal axis that extends in a direction orthogonal or substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the center support rail 412. The first end 418 of the fold support member 416 can be rotatably coupled to the leg support 108 via a hinge 130. The second end 420 of the fold support member 416 can be rotatably coupled to the center support rail 412 via a hinge 422. The fold support member 416 can be configured to rotate, by way of the hinges 130, 422, from a substantially horizontal position when the playard 100 is in a use configuration to a vertical or substantially vertical orientation when the playard 100 is in the folded configuration, as shown in
In certain example embodiments, the bottom rail support system 120 can also include a second bottom rail 430 having a first end coupled to the mail bottom rail 402 generally near the first end 404 and a second end coupled to the main bottom rail 402 generally near the second end 406. In one example, the second bottom rail 430 can be configured to provide additional support for the bottom rail support system 120 and for the play surface 150 of the playard 100 disposed thereabove. While the example bottom rail support system describes only a single second bottom rail 430, in other example embodiments more than one second bottom rail may be used. Further, while the rails of the bottom rail support system 120 in
The one-hand rail release mechanism 502 can also include a release button 506. In one example, the release button 506 can be disposed generally along the bottom end of the grip surface. The release button 506 can be spring-biased with a spring or other device into an extended position. A user can apply a generally upward force on the release button 506 to depress the button 506 into a retracted position. The one-hand rail release mechanism 502 can also be coupled to a first cable 508 and a second cable 510. In one example, the first cable 508 can extend through one or more railings, including the top rail 106A and is attached at a distal end to the slide plate of the rail locking mechanism 118B. Further, the second cable 510 can extend through one or more railings, including the top rail 104A and is attached at a distal end to the slide plate of the rail locking mechanism 118A.
The one-hand rail release mechanism 502 can also include a cable tensioner. The cable tensioner can be employed by rotating the grip surface in the direction “C” from a first position to a second position when both the slide lock 504 is unlocked and the button 506 is depressed. In one example, the cable tensioner cannot be rotated unless both the slide lock 504 is unlocked and the button 506 is depressed. The cable tensioner can be spring-biased with a spring or other device into the first position.
In use, the user can use a single hand to slide the slide lock 504 in the direction “B” from the locked to the unlocked position, depress the release button 506, and rotate the grip surface of the mechanism 502 in the direction “C”. The rotation of the mechanism 502 in the direction “C” will generate a tension on each of the cables 508, 510 and pull each of the slide plates in the direction “A” from the locked to the unlocked position, thereby allowing the second rivets 220, 222 to exit the corresponding locking slots 212, 216 and allowing the top rails 104A, 104B, 106A, 106B to rotate from a generally horizontal position to a vertical or substantially vertical position as the playard is adjusted from the use configuration to the folded configuration, as shown in
In one example embodiment, the hinges 128, 130, 424 and 426 are coupled to the support tower 602. The use of the support tower 602 can eliminate the need for corner posts on each corner of the playard 100. This allows for the use of mesh material 126 along the corners of the playard 100 rather than an opaque material such as a plastic or metal corner post and/or fabric or other soft goods surrounding that corner post, resulting in a more open and visible playard 100.
At least partially disposed within the housing 702 is a first gear latch 704 and a second gear latch 706. Each of the first 704 and second 706 gear latches can be rotatably coupled to the housing via a pin axle or other device. Each of the first 704 and second 706 gear latches includes a main body with an outer surface. Along at least a portion of the outer surface are multiple gear teeth 708 that engage with the gear teeth 708 on the other gear latch. Each of the gear latches 704, 706 also include a curved recessed surface 714 for receiving at least a portion of the corresponding top rail 104A, 104B thereon. In one example, the curved recessed surface 714 has a depth of less than one inch, such that less than one inch of the bottom surface of the end of the corresponding top rail 104A, 104B can rest on the curved recessed surface 714 when the mechanism 118A is in the locked configuration.
Each gear latch 704, 706 can also include a tube wing 716. The tube wing 716 is generally positioned immediately below the curved recessed surface 714. The tube wing 716 can include a straight or arcuate top edge that extends from the curved recessed surface 714 and projects downward therefrom to provide a sliding surface for the corresponding top rail 104A, 104B when the top rail is not in the curved recessed surface 714. The first gear latch 704 can also include a cable aperture 718 for receiving and coupling a release cable (such as the release cable 510 in
As tension is applied to a cable, it causes the first gear latch 704 to rotate in the direction “D”. The gear teeth 708 of the first gear latch 704 interact with the gear teeth 708 of the second gear latch 706 to cause a corresponding rotation of the second gear latch 706 in the direction “E”. The rotation of both the first gear latch 704 and the second gear latch 706 at substantially the same rate causes both the top rail 104A and the top rail 104B to slip out of the corresponding curved recess surfaces 714 and to begin sliding down the corresponding tube wing 718 in each gear latch 704, 706. The top rails 104A, 104B are then able to rotate from the horizontal position to a vertical or substantially vertical position as the playard 100 is adjusted from the use configuration to the folded configuration, as shown in
Referring now to
One or both of the first members 902A, 902B can also include a channel or hollow passageway extending along the longitudinal axis of the corresponding first member 902A, 902B. An actuator mechanism 906A, 906B, such as a cable or metal rod, can be disposed within the channel of one or both of the first members 902A, 902B. One end of the actuator mechanism 906A, 906B can operably engage the rotating latch 908. For example, each first member 902A, 902B can include a hole or opening in the outer wall of the corresponding first member 902A, 902B that the rotating latch 908 can engage/be disposed at least partially within (to hold the first member 902A, 902B in the extended position) and disengage (to allow the first member 902A, 902B to slide into the corresponding second member 904A, 904B in a telescoping manner) to reduce the overall height of the playard 100 when it is in the folded configuration, as shown in
In one example, the handle 912 remains in the pressed or squeezed position until the first members 902A, 902B are raised back out of the channel of the corresponding second members 904A, 904B and the latch 908 rotates back into engagement with the hole in the corresponding first member 902A, 902B. In this example embodiment, the handle 912 can act as a lockout feature, preventing the playard 100 from being adjusted from the folded configuration into the use configuration until one or more latches 908 re-engage with the corresponding first members 902A, 902B. In addition, in certain example embodiments, when the handle 912 is pressed or squeezed, in can be at least partially positioned within a groove on the top rail 102. By fitting a portion of the handle 912 in the top rail 102 when pressed or squeezed, the top rails 104A, 104B, 106A, 106B cannot be unfolded until the first members 902A, 902B are raised back out of the channel of the corresponding second members 904A, 904B and the latch 908 rotates back into engagement with the hole in the corresponding first member 902A, 902B, allowing the handle 912 to be released back into its unpressed/unsqueezed position
Each of the ends of the top rails 104A, 104B can include a slotted opening disposed through a portion of the end of the respective top rail and extending along the longitudinal axis of the respective top rail. The rail locking mechanism 118A can also include a slide plate 1002 that can be at least partially disposed within the respective slotted openings of each of the top rails 104A, 104B. The slide plate 1002 can include a first enclosed slot 1004 for receiving the first rivet 208 of the top rail 104A and a second enclosed slot 1006 for receiving the first rivet 210 of the top rail 104B. Each of the first enclosed slot 1004 and second enclosed slot 1006 can extend generally in the longitudinal direction of the top rails 104A, 104B when the playard 100 is in the use configuration. Each of the first enclosed slot 1004 and the second enclosed slot 1006 are configured to maintain each of the top rail 104A and top rail 104B in slidable connection with the rail locking mechanism 118A.
The rail locking mechanism 118A can also include a first locking slot 1008 and a second locking slot 1010. The first locking slot 1008 can be configured to receive the second rivet 220 of the top rail 104A. The first locking slot 1008 can include an opening along a portion of the bottom end of the first locking slot 1008 that leads into a rivet cam or pathway 1020 that the second rivet 220 follows when the rail locking mechanism 118A is in the unlocked position and when the playard 100 is being adjusted from the use configuration to the folded configuration, as shown in
The second locking slot 1010 can be configured to receive the second rivet 222 of the top rail 104B. The second locking slot 1010 can include an opening along a portion of the bottom end of the first locking slot 1008 that leads into a rivet cam or pathway 1022 that the second rivet 222 follows when the rail locking mechanism 118A is in the unlocked position and when the playard 100 is being adjusted from the use configuration to the folded configuration, as shown in
The rail locking mechanism 118A of
Each rail locking mechanism 118A can also include a spring biasing mechanism (not shown) coupled to the slide plate 1002. The spring biasing mechanism can bias the slide plate 1002 into the locked position. The rail locking mechanism 118A can also include a top cover plate or saddle that is disposed over at least a portion of the top surface of the corresponding rail locking mechanism 118A, 118B. The saddle can be configured to limit access to the portion of the mechanism 118A where the ends of the top rails 104A, 104B abut in the use configuration and create a potential pinch point. Similarly, the rail locking mechanism 118A can also include a pair of side plates, each disposed on at least a portion of the opposing lateral sides of the top rails 104A, 104B. In one example embodiment, the side plates can be movably coupled to the top rail 104A via the first rivet 208 and to the top rail 104B via the first rivet 210.
In one example, the frame assembly 1202 can include opposing top end rails 1214, 1216 disposed along the top portion of the corresponding end walls. Each of the top end rails 1214, 1216 can be constructed of plastic or metal and can be a tube that includes a hollow channel extending from a first end to an opposing second end of each of the top end rails 1214, 1216.
The frame assembly 1202 can further include a pair of top side rail assemblies. Each top side rail assembly can include a first top side rail 1220, 1224, a second top side rail 1218, 1222 and a rail locking mechanism 1226A, 1226B. Each of the top side rail assemblies can have a first end and a distal second end and can extend generally from the one top end rail 1214 to the other top end rail 1216.
For example, the top end rail 1214 can have a first end coupled to the first top rail coupling housing 1232A and a second distal end coupled to the second top rail coupling housing 1232B. The top side rail 1218 can have a first end pivotably coupled to the second top rail coupling housing 1232B and a second distal end pivotally coupled to the first rail locking mechanism 1226A. The top side rail 1218 can be configured to rotate about a first rotation axis at the pivotable coupling to the second top rail coupling housing 1232B and configured to rotate about a second rotation axis at the pivotable coupling to the first rail locking mechanism 1226A. In one example, the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis are parallel.
The top side rail 1220 can have a first end pivotably coupled to the fourth top rail coupling housing 1234B and a second distal end pivotally coupled to the first rail locking mechanism 1226A. The top side rail 1220 can be configured to rotate about a third rotation axis at the pivotable coupling to the fourth top rail coupling housing 1234B and configured to rotate about a fourth rotation axis at the pivotable coupling to the first rail locking mechanism 1226A. In one example, the first rotation axis, second rotation axis, third rotation axis, and fourth rotation axis are parallel to one another.
The top end rail 1216 can have a first end coupled to the third top rail coupling housing 1234A and a second distal end coupled to the fourth top rail coupling housing 1234B. The top side rail 1224 can have a first end pivotably coupled to the third top rail coupling housing 1234A and a second distal end pivotally coupled to the second rail locking mechanism 1226B. The top side rail 1224 can be configured to rotate about a fifth rotation axis at the pivotable coupling to the third top rail coupling housing 1234A and configured to rotate about a sixth rotation axis at the pivotable coupling to the second rail locking mechanism 1226B. In one example, the first rotation axis, second rotation axis, third rotation axis, fourth rotation axis, fifth rotation axis, and sixth rotation axis are parallel to one another.
The top side rail 1222 can have a first end pivotably coupled to the first top rail coupling housing 1232A and a second distal end pivotally coupled to the second rail locking mechanism 1226B. The top side rail 1222 can be configured to rotate about a seventh rotation axis at the pivotable coupling to the first top rail coupling housing 1232A and configured to rotate about an eighth rotation axis at the pivotable coupling to the second rail locking mechanism 1226B. In one example, the first rotation axis, second rotation axis, third rotation axis, fourth rotation axis, fifth rotation axis, sixth rotation axis, seventh rotation axis, and eighth rotation axis are parallel to one another.
Each of the top side rails 1218, 1220, 1222, 1224 and top end rails 1216, 1218 are horizontal or substantially horizontally positioned when the foldable playard 1200 is in the use configuration. Further, the top side rails 1218, 1220, 1222, 1224 are vertically or substantially vertically positioned and the top end rails 1216, 1218 are horizontal or substantially horizontally positioned when the foldable playard 1200 is in the folded or stored configuration.
A first corner post 1204 has a first end coupled to the first top rail coupling housing 1232A and a second distal end pivotably coupled to a first support foot 1228A. A second corner post 1206 can have a first end coupled to the second top rail coupling housing 1232B and a second distal end pivotably coupled to a second support foot 1228B. A third corner post 1208 can have a first end coupled to the third top rail coupling housing 1234A and a distal second end pivotably coupled to a third support foot 1230A. A fourth corner post 1210 can have a first end coupled to the fourth top rail coupling housing and a distal second end pivotably coupled to a fourth support foot 1230B.
Each of the first corner post 1204, second corner post 1206, third corner post 1208, and fourth corner post 1210 can extend vertically or substantially vertically between the respective support foot and the respective top rail coupling housing and can be configured to provide vertical support to the top side rails 1218, 1220, 1222, 1224, top end rails 1216, 1218, and top rail coupling housings 1232A, 1232B, 1234A, 1234B. Each of the first corner post 1204, second corner post 1206, third corner post 1208, and fourth corner post 1210 can extend vertically or substantially vertically when the foldable playard 1200 is in the use configuration and when the system 1200 is in the stored or folded configuration. However, as the foldably playard 1200 is being manipulated between the use configuration and the stored or folded configuration, one or more of the corner posts 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210 may be angled from the vertical orientation anywhere in the range of 20-80 degrees.
The foldable playard 1200 can also include a bottom rail support system 1212 pivotably coupled to each of the first support foot 1228A, second support foot 1228B, third support foot 1230A, and fourth support foot 1230B. The bottom rail support system can include multiple bottom support rails. Each bottom support rail can extend horizontally or substantially horizontally from its respective support foot when the foldable playard 1200 is in the use configuration. The bottom rail support system 1212 can also include bottom rail folding hub assembly 1254, as shown in
The bottom rail folding hub 1254 can also include a pull strap 1255 coupled to the bottom rail folding hub 1255. The pull strap 1255 can be constructed of a fabric material. In certain example embodiments, the pull strap 1255 can be formed to create a loop that is configured to receive a hand or portion of a hand therethrough to grip the pull strap 1255. The pull strap 1255 can be positioned along the top side of the bottom rail folding hub. In some example embodiments, the pull strap 1255 can extend through an opening in the soft goods floor panel of the playard 1200. A user can reach into the cavity defined by the side walls and floor panel of the playard 1200, grasp the pull strap 1255 and lift the pull strap 1255 vertically to pull the bottom rail folding hub 1254 up vertically to begin the process of changing the playard from the use configuration to the folded configuration.
For example, the first support foot 1228A can include a housing that includes a bottom side configured to rest upon a floor or other surface. On the opposing end from the bottom side, the first corner post 1204 can be pivotably coupled to and extend vertically up from the first support foot 1228A. For example, the first support foot 1228A can include a hinge pin and the first corner post 1204 can include a pair of apertures or a channel extending along an axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the first corner post 1204. The hinge pin can be coupled along distal ends to the first support foot 1228A and can extend through the channel or apertures near the second end of the first corner post 1204 to provide a ninth axis of rotation about which the first support foot 1228A can rotate with respect to the first corner post 1204.
The first support foot 1228A can also be coupled to the first bottom support rail 1236 along a first end of the first bottom support rail 1236. For example, the first support foot 1228A can include a coupling device for coupling the first bottom support rail 1236 to the first support foot 1228A. The second end of the first bottom support rail 1236 can be directly or indirectly pivotably coupled to the bottom rail folding hub 1254. For example, the bottom rail folding hub 1254 can include a first coupling rod 1250 pivotably coupled to the hub 1254 and extending out horizontally out from the hub 1254 in a first direction from the hub 1254 and a second coupling rod 1252 pivotably coupled to the hub 1254 and extending horizontally out from the hub 1254 in a second direction from the hub 1254 opposite that of the first direction from hub 1254. For example, the first coupling rod 1250 or the first bottom rail support 1236 and the second bottom rail support 1238 can be coupled to the hub 1254 by one or more hinge pins 1258 or other rotation means to provide a thirteen axis of rotation that is parallel or substantially parallel with the first through twelfth axes of rotation. Further, the second coupling rod 1252 or the third bottom rail support 1240 and the fourth bottom rail support 1242 can be coupled to the hub 1254 by one or more hinge pins 1256 or other rotation means to provide a fourteenth axis of rotation that is parallel or substantially parallel with the first through thirteenth axes of rotation.
The first bottom support rail 1236 can be indirectly pivotably coupled to the hub 1254 by being fixedly coupled to the first coupling rod 1250, which is pivotably coupled to the hub 1254. In an alternate embodiment, the second end of the first bottom support rail 1236 can be directly pivotably coupled to the hub 1254. The first bottom support rail 1236 can include three generally straight sections and two curved sections such that a first curved section is positioned between the first generally straight section and the second generally straight section and the second curved section is positioned between the second generally straight section and the third generally straight section to provide the first bottom support rail 1236 with a generally “S” or “Z” shaped profile.
The second support foot 1228B can include a housing that includes a bottom side configured to rest upon a floor or other surface. On the opposing end from the bottom side, the second corner post 1206 can be pivotably coupled to and extend vertically up from the second support foot 1228B. For example, the second support foot 1228B can include a hinge pin and the second corner post 1206 can include a pair of apertures or a channel extending along an axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the second corner post 1206. The hinge pin can be coupled along distal ends to the second support foot 1228B and can extend through the channel or apertures near the second end of the second corner post 1206 to provide a tenth axis of rotation about which the second support foot 1228B can rotate with respect to the second corner post 1206.
The second support foot 1228B can also be coupled to the second bottom support rail 1238 along a first end of the second bottom support rail 1238. For example, the second support foot 1228B can include a coupling device for coupling the second bottom support rail 1238 to the second support foot 1228B. The second end of the second bottom support rail 1238 can be directly or indirectly pivotably coupled to the bottom rail folding hub 1254. In one example embodiment, the second bottom support rail 1238 can be indirectly pivotably coupled to the hub 1254 by being fixedly coupled to the first coupling rod 1250, which is pivotably coupled to the hub 1254. In an alternate embodiment, the second end of the second bottom support rail 1238 can be directly pivotably coupled to the hub 1254. The second bottom support rail 1238 can include three generally straight sections and two curved sections such that a first curved section is positioned between the first generally straight section and the second generally straight section and the second curved section is positioned between the second generally straight section and the third generally straight section to provide the second bottom support rail 1238 with a generally “S” or “Z” shaped profile.
As shown in
The third corner post 1208 can also include a pulley or other curved surface 1268 positioned along the second end of the third corner post 1208 and disposed within the housing 1270 of the third support foot 1230A. When a curved surface is employed rather than a pulley, the curvature can be convex with respect to the end of the third corner post 1208 to provide a generally rounded protruding end to the third corner post 1208.
The third support foot 1230A can also be coupled to the third bottom support rail 1240 along a first end of the third bottom support rail 1240. In one example, the third bottom support rail 1240 is fixedly coupled to the third support foot 1230A so that a movement of the third bottom support rail 1240 causes a corresponding movement in the third support foot 1230A. For example, at least a portion of the third bottom support rail 1240 can be inserted into the cavity 1272 of the housing 1270. A coupling device 1262 can then be used to fixedly couple the third bottom support rail 1240 to the third support foot 1230A. The coupling device can be a screw, rivet, pin or similar coupling device.
In one example, a first end of a cable or wire 1260 can be coupled to the third bottom support rail 1240 adjacent to the first end of the third bottom support rail 1240. For example, the third bottom support rail 1240 can include a cable retaining aperture 1266 or eyelet for coupling the cable or wire 1260 to the third bottom support rail 1240. In an alternate example, the cable or wire 1260 can be coupled to a portion of the fourth support foot 1230B, which can be adjacent to the fourth bottom support rail 1242. The cable or wire 1260 can then extend up along the pulley or curved surface 1268 and through a channel 1275 in the third corner post 1208 that extends along the longitudinal axis Y of the third corner post 1208. The cable or wire 1260 can exit the distal first end of the third corner post 1208 at the third top corner housing 1234A and can enter and extend along a channel of the top side rail 1224. The second end of the cable or wire 1260 can be coupled to a portion of the second rail locking mechanism 1226B as discussed in more detail below.
The second end of the third bottom support rail 1240 can be directly or indirectly pivotably coupled to the bottom rail folding hub 1254. In one example embodiment, the third bottom support rail 1240 can be indirectly pivotably coupled to the hub 1254 by being fixedly coupled to the second coupling rod 1252, which is pivotably coupled to the hub 1254. In an alternate embodiment, the second end of the third bottom support rail 1240 can be directly pivotably coupled to the hub 1254. The third bottom support rail 1240 can include three generally straight sections and two curved sections such that a first curved section is positioned between the first generally straight section and the second generally straight section and the second curved section is positioned between the second generally straight section and the third generally straight section to provide the third bottom support rail 1240 with a generally “S” or “Z” shaped profile.
In operation, when the foldable playard 1200 is in the use, unfolded configuration and a user begins to fold the system 1200 by pulling up in the vertical direction on the hub 1254, the third corner post 1208 can rotate in the direction B with respect to the third support foot 1230A and the third support foot 1230A can rotate in the direction A with respect to the third corner post 1208. The rotation of the third support foot 1230A with respect to the third corner post 1208 causes tension in the cable or wire 1264 and causes it to move around the outer perimeter of the pulley 1268 or curved outer surface. As the foot 1230A is rotated further with respect to the third corner post 1208, the cable or wire 1264 is pulled further in the downward direction through the channel 1275 of the third corner post 1208 and laterally through the channel of the top side rail 1224 to unlatch the rail locking mechanism 1226B to release the top side rail 1224 and 1222 for rotation with respect to the rail locking mechanism 1226B and the corresponding third corner post 1208 and first corner post 1204. Each of the third support foot 1230A and third corner post 1208 can rotate in opposite directions of A and B respectively when being adjusted from the folded, stored configuration to the use, unfolded configuration.
As also seen in
The fourth corner post 1210 can also include a pulley or other curved surface 1268 positioned along the second end of the fourth corner post 1210 and disposed within the housing 1270 of the fourth support foot 1230B. When a curved surface is employed rather than a pulley, the curvature can be convex with respect to the end of the fourth corner post 1210 to provide a generally rounded protruding end to the fourth corner post 1210.
The fourth support foot 1230B can also be coupled to the fourth bottom support rail 1242 along a first end of the fourth bottom support rail 1242. In one example, the fourth bottom support rail 1242 is fixedly coupled to the fourth support foot 1230B so that a movement of the fourth bottom support rail 1242 causes a corresponding movement in the fourth support foot 1230B. For example, at least a portion of the fourth bottom support rail 1242 can be inserted into the cavity 1272 of the housing 1270. A coupling device 1262 can then be used to fixedly couple the fourth bottom support rail 1242 to the fourth support foot 1230B. The coupling device can be a screw, rivet, pin or similar coupling device.
In one example, a first end of a cable or wire 1260 can be coupled to the fourth bottom support rail 1242 adjacent to the first end of the fourth bottom support rail 1242. For example, the fourth bottom support rail 1242 can include a cable retaining aperture 1266 or eyelet for coupling the cable or wire 1260 to the fourth bottom support rail 1242. In an alternate example, the cable or wire 1260 can be coupled to a portion of the fourth support foot 1230B, which can be adjacent to the fourth bottom support rail 1242. The cable or wire 1260 can then extend up along the pulley or curved surface 1268 and through a channel 1275 in the fourth corner post 1210 that extends along the longitudinal axis Y of the fourth corner post 1210. The cable or wire 1260 can exit the distal first end of the fourth corner post 1210 at the fourth top corner housing 1234B and can enter and extend along a channel of the top side rail 1220. The second end of the cable or wire 1260 can be coupled to a portion of the first rail locking mechanism 1226A as discussed in more detail below.
The second end of the fourth bottom support rail 1242 can be directly or indirectly pivotably coupled to the bottom rail folding hub 1254. In one example embodiment, the fourth bottom support rail 1242 can be indirectly pivotably coupled to the hub 1254 by being fixedly coupled to the second coupling rod 1252, which is pivotably coupled to the hub 1254. In an alternate embodiment, the second end of the fourth bottom support rail 1242 can be directly pivotably coupled to the hub 1254.
The fourth bottom support rail 1242 can include three generally straight sections and two curved sections such that a first curved section is positioned between the first generally straight section and the second generally straight section and the second curved section is positioned between the second generally straight section and the third generally straight section to provide the fourth bottom support rail 1242 with a generally “S” or “Z” shaped profile.
In operation, when the foldable playard 1200 is in the use, unfolded configuration and a user begins to fold the system 1200 by pulling up in the vertical direction on the hub 1254, the fourth corner post 1210 can rotate in the direction B with respect to the fourth support foot 1230B and the fourth support foot 1230B can rotate in the direction A with respect to the fourth corner post 1210. The rotation of the fourth support foot 1230B with respect to the fourth corner post 1210 causes tension in the cable or wire 1264 and causes it to move around the outer perimeter of the pulley 1268 or curved outer surface. As the foot 1230B is rotated further with respect to the fourth corner post 1210, the cable or wire 1264 is pulled further in the downward direction through the channel 1275 of the fourth corner post 1210 and laterally through the channel of the top side rail 1220 to unlatch the rail locking mechanism 1226A to release the top side rail 1220 and 1218 for rotation with respect to the rail locking mechanism 1226A and the corresponding fourth corner post 1210 and second corner post 1206. Each of the fourth support foot 1230B and fourth corner post 1210 can rotate in opposite directions of A and B respectively when being adjusted from the folded, stored configuration to the use, unfolded configuration.
As shown in
Each of the ends of the top side rails 1218, 1220 can include a slotted opening disposed through a portion of the end of the respective top side rail 1218, 1220 and extending along the longitudinal axis of the respective top side rail 1218, 1220. The rail locking mechanism 1226A can also include a slide plate 1274 that can be at least partially disposed within the respective slotted openings of each of the top side rails 1218, 1220. The slide plate 1274 can include a first enclosed slot 1284 for receiving the first rivet 1294 of the top side rail 1220 and a second enclosed slot 1286 for receiving the first rivet 1296 of the top side rail 1220. Each of the first enclosed slot 1284 and second enclosed slot 1286 can extend generally in the longitudinal direction of the top side rails 1220, 1218 when the playard 1200 is in the use configuration. Each of the first enclosed slot 1284 and the second enclosed slot 1286 are configured to maintain each of the top side rail 1220 and top side rail 1218 in slidable connection with the rail locking mechanism 1226A.
The rail locking mechanism 1226A can also include a first locking slot 1280 and a second locking slot 1282. The first locking slot 1280 can be configured to receive the second rivet 1288 of the top side rail 1220. The first locking slot 1280 can include an opening along a portion of the bottom end of the first locking slot 1280 that leads into a rivet cam or pathway 1276 that the second rivet 1288 follows when the rail locking mechanism 1226A is in the unlocked position and when the playard 1200 is being adjusted from the use configuration to the folded configuration, as shown in
The second locking slot 1282 can be configured to receive the second rivet 1290 of the top side rail 1218. The second locking slot 1282 can include an opening along a portion of the bottom end of the second locking slot 1282 that leads into a rivet cam or pathway 1278 that the second rivet 1290 follows when the rail locking mechanism 1226A is in the unlocked position and when the playard 1200 is being adjusted from the use configuration to the folded configuration, as shown in
The rail locking mechanism 1226A can also include a cable attachment aperture 1292 for attaching a cable 1260 thereto. The cable can extend through an internal passageway of the top side rail 1220 and another cable can also extend through the internal passageway of the top side rail 1224 from the corresponding cable attachments 1292 of the rail locking mechanisms 1226A, 1226B down through the channel 1275 of the corresponding fourth corner post 1210 or third corner post 1208 to the cable retaining aperture 1266 of
Each rail locking mechanism 1226A can also include a spring biasing mechanism (not shown) coupled to the slide plate 1274. The spring biasing mechanism can bias the slide plate 1274 into the locked position (as shown in
Pulling the corresponding rail locking mechanisms 1226A, 1226B in the direction C adjusts the mechanism from a locked position to an unlocked position. In the unlocked position, the second rivets 1288, 1290 can pass through the corresponding opening in the bottom of each of the respective first locking slot 1280 and second locking slot 1282. Once the second rivets 1288, 1290 pass through the corresponding opening, each second rivet 1288, 1290 can continue to move along the corresponding rivet paths 1276, 1278 as the corresponding top side rail 1220, 1218 rotates from a generally horizontal position to a vertical or substantially vertical position as the playard 1200 is adjusted into the folded configuration, as shown in
Though the disclosed example includes a particular arrangement of a number of parts, components, features, and aspects, the disclosure is not limited to only that example or arrangement. Any one or more of the parts, components, features, and aspects of the disclosure can be employed alone or in other arrangements of any two or more of the same.
Although certain playard features, functions, components, and parts have been described herein in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure, the scope of coverage of this patent is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this patent covers all embodiments of the teachings of the disclosure that fairly fall within the scope of permissible equivalents.
Conditional language, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain implementations could include, while other implementations do not include, certain features, elements, and/or operations. Thus, such conditional language generally is not intended to imply that features, elements, and/or operations are in any way required for one or more implementations or that one or more implementations necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements, and/or operations are included or are to be performed in any particular implementation.
Many modifications and other implementations of the disclosure set forth herein will be apparent having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the specific implementations disclosed and that modifications and other implementations are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.
This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/352,270 filed Jun. 20, 2016, and titled “Apparatus and Method for a Foldable Child Containment System,” the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.
Number | Date | Country | |
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62352270 | Jun 2016 | US |