BABY CARRYING APPARATUS

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and method for carrying an infant comprising a waist support, panels, side supports, shoulder supports, and adjustable straps to combine the support of a traditional baby carrier with the lightness of a baby wrap. When in use, the baby is placed within the panels of the baby carrier of the present disclosure, which provides for a more ergonomic positioning of the baby. Fabric loops allow for an efficient adjustment to and from a wrap style carrier to a structured carrier.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to exemplary embodiments of a baby carrying apparatus, and more particularly, to exemplary embodiments of a baby carrying apparatus that can be used as a baby carrier and as a baby wrap.

SUMMARY

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a baby carrying apparatus is disclosed, and comprises a waist support having a top portion, right side portion and left side portion; a first and second strap each having a first end and a second end, the first end of the first strap attached to the right side portion of the waist support and a second end of the first strap having a fastener element, and the first end of the second strap attached to the left side portion of the waist support and the second end of the second strap having a fastener element configured to mate with the fastener element of the first strap; a first and second panel each having a top portion, bottom portion, right side portion, and left side portion, wherein the second panel is provided inward of the first panel, and wherein the bottom portion of the first panel and the bottom portion of the second panel is attached to the top portion of the waist support; a first side support extending from the right side portion of the first panel and a second side support extending from the left side portion of the first panel, the first and second side supports having a fastener element at distal ends; a first shoulder support extending from the top portion of the first panel; a first adjustable strap having a first end and a second end wherein the first end of the first adjustable strap is attached to the first shoulder support, and the second end of the first adjustable strap comprises a fastener element configured to detachably engage the fastener element of the second side support; a second shoulder support extending from the top portion of the second panel; and a second adjustable strap having a first end and a second end wherein the first end of the second adjustable strap is attached to the second shoulder support, and the second end of the second adjustable strap comprises a fastener element configured to detachably engage the fastener element of the first side support.

In embodiments, the baby carrying apparatus further comprises a first and second cushioned support, the first and second cushioned support attached to the top portion of waist support and configured to provide support for a baby's legs.

In embodiments, the first and second shoulder supports of the baby carrying apparatus further comprise a fabric loop configured to slide up and down the shoulder support.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a baby carrying apparatus comprises a waist support comprising a first and second strap extending from opposite ends of the waist support; a first and second panel attached to a top portion of the waist support, wherein the second panel is provided inward of the first panel; a first side support extending from a first side of the first panel and a second side support extending from a second side of the first panel, the first and second side supports having a fastener element at a distal end; a first shoulder support extending from a top portion of the first panel; a first adjustable strap extending from the first shoulder support, wherein a distal end of the first adjustable strap has a fastener element configured to detachably engage the fastener element of the second side support; a second shoulder support extending from a top portion of the second panel; and a second adjustable strap extending from the second shoulder support, wherein a distal end of the second adjustable strap has a fastener element configured to detachably engage the fastener element of the first side support.

In embodiments, the baby carrying apparatus further comprises a first and second cushioned support, the first and second cushioned support attached to the top portion of waist support and configured to provide support for a baby's legs.

In embodiments, the first and second shoulder supports of the baby carrying apparatus further comprise a fabric loop configured to slide up and down the shoulder support.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a method for wearing a baby carrier comprises placing a waist support around the body of a user; detachably engaging fastener elements of a first and second strap extending from opposite sides of the waist support to secure the waist support around the body of the user; placing a first shoulder support extending from a first panel attached to the waist support over a first shoulder of user; routing a first adjustable strap extending from the first shoulder support across the back of the user; placing a second shoulder support extending from a second panel over a second shoulder of user; routing a second adjustable strap extending from the second shoulder support across the back of the user and over the first adjustable strap; detachably engaging a fastener element at a distal end of the first adjustable strap to a fastener element of a second side support extending from a first panel; and detachably engaging a fastener element at a distal end of the second adjustable strap to a fastener element of a first side support extending from a first panel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various exemplary embodiments of this invention will be described in detail, with reference to the following figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a baby carrier;

FIG. 2 is a back perspective view thereof;

FIG. 3 is an illustration of the baby carrier of FIG. 1 in use;

FIG. 4 is a front elevational view thereof; and

FIG. 5 is a back elevational view thereof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS OF DISCLOSURE

The exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can provide for a baby carrying apparatus that can be used as a baby carrier or as a baby wrap. Exemplary embodiments of the various methods and apparatuses will now be described with reference to the figures. The following description of the various embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, its application, or uses.

As shown in FIGS. 1-2, a baby carrying apparatus 100 can include a waist support 110 configured to attach around a user's waist 110. The waist support 110 can have a strap 112 stitched at one end having a buckle portion 116 (e.g., male buckle), and a strap 114 stitched at an opposite end having a mating buckle portion 118 (e.g., female buckle). The straps 114, 116 can be adjustable to secure the waist support 110 around a user's waist. A user can wear the waist support 110 around their waist or higher as preferred.

The baby carrying apparatus 100 can have a first panel 120 (e.g., fabric panel). A bottom portion of the first panel 120 can be attached (e.g., stitched) to a top portion of the waist support 110. A first cushioned support 122 can be provided, and a bottom portion of the first cushioned support 122 can be attached (e.g., stitched) to a top portion of the waist support 110. The baby carrying apparatus can have a second panel 130 (e.g., fabric panel). A bottom portion of the second panel 130 can be attached (e.g., stitched) to a top portion of the waist support 110. A second cushioned support 132 can be provided, and a bottom portion of the second cushioned support 132 can be attached (e.g., stitched) to a top portion of the waist support 110. The first cushioned support 122 and second cushioned support 132 can be made of fabric and include padding or a cushion within the fabric.

The first panel 120 and second panel 130 are independent panels. The bottom portion of the first panel 120 and second panel 130 are both attached (e.g., stitched) to the first cushioned support 122, and the bottom portion of the first panel 120 and second panel 130 are also both attached (e.g., stitched) to the second cushioned support 132. That is, a first bottom side of the first panel 120 can be stitched to the first cushioned support 122, and an opposite bottom side of the first panel 120 can be stitched to the second cushioned support 132. Likewise, a first bottom side of the second panel 130 can be stitched to the first cushioned support 122, and an opposite bottom side of the second panel 130 can be stitched to the second cushioned support 132. The second panel 130 can be provided inward of the first panel 120, as shown in FIGS. 1-2.

A first side support 180 can be stitched to the first panel 120 at a side thereof, preferably above the first cushioned support 122. In some exemplary embodiments, the first panel 120 and the second panel 130 can be stitched to the first side support 180, which can ensure a proper configuration of the first panel 120 and second panel 130 for supporting a baby with both panels. The first side support 180 can extend outwards from the first cushioned support 122. The first side support 180 can be made of fabric and include padding or a cushion within the fabric. A buckle portion 182 (e.g., female buckle) can be provided on the first side support 180. The buckle portion 182 can be attached to (e.g., stitched) to the first side support 180.

A second side support 190 can be stitched to the first panel 120 at an opposite side thereof from the first side support 180, preferably above the second cushioned support 132. In some exemplary embodiments, the first panel 120 and the second panel 130 can be stitched to the second side support 190, which can ensure a proper configuration of the first panel 120 and second panel 130 for supporting a baby with both panels. The second side support 190 can extend outwards from the second cushioned support 132. The second side support 190 can be made of fabric and include padding or a cushion within the fabric. A buckle portion 192 (e.g., female buckle) can be provided on the second side support 190. The buckle portion 192 can be attached to (e.g., stitched) to the second side support 190.

A shoulder support 140 is provided that is connected to, or integral with, first panel 120. The shoulder support 140 is configured to be wide enough to fit snugly around the entire shoulder area of a user, similar to a baby wrap. A fabric loop 160 can be provided that encircles the shoulder support 140, and configured to slide up and down on the shoulder support 140, as will be further explained below. An adjustable strap support 146 can be attached to (e.g., stitched) to the end of the shoulder support 140, configured to retain an adjustable strap 142 at one end. The second opposite end of the strap 142 can have a buckle portion 144 (e.g., male buckle) that is configured to be inserted within the buckle portion 192 (e.g., female buckle). The strap 142 is adjustable at either end (e.g., adjustable strap support 146 and buckle portion 144).

A shoulder support 150 is provided that is connected to, or integral with, second panel 130. The shoulder support 150 is configured to be wide enough to fit snugly around the entire shoulder area of a user, similar to a baby wrap. A fabric loop 170 can be provided that encircles the shoulder support 150, and configured to slide up and down on the shoulder support 150, as will be further explained below. An adjustable strap support 156 can be attached to (e.g., stitched) to the end of the shoulder portion 150, configured to retain an adjustable strap 152 at one end. The second opposite end of the strap 152 can have a buckle portion 154 (e.g., male buckle) that is configured to be inserted within the buckle portion 182 (e.g., female buckle). The strap 152 is adjustable at either end (e.g., adjustable strap support 156 and buckle portion 154).

As shown in FIG. 3, a user 200 can position the waist support 110 around their waist and connect it using the buckle portions 116, 118, and adjust the strap 114 for a snug fit. The user can position the straps 142 and 152 to form an X pattern around the user's back to support the panels 120 and 130 and shoulder supports 140 and 150. The user can connect the buckle portions 144 and 192 on one side, and the buckle portions 154 and 182 on the other side, and adjust the straps 142 and 152 for a snug fit. The user 200 can place a baby 210 within the panels 120 and 130, as shown in FIG. 3. A baby's legs can extend from the first cushioned support 122 and second cushioned support 132, which provides support, padding and comfort for the baby's legs.

As shown in FIGS. 4-5, the fabric loops 160 and 170 are configures to slide up and down the shoulder straps 140 and 150, respectively. When the fabric loops 160 and 170 are positioned higher, as shown in FIG. 4, the baby carrying apparatus 100 can resemble more of a baby wrap, where the area around a baby's head is wider and the panels 120 and 130 can be snug and secure around a baby's head (e.g., allowing a baby to be snug or sleep). When the fabric loops 160 and 170 are positioned lower, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, the baby carrying apparatus 100 can resemble more of a baby carrier, where the area around a baby's head is narrower allowing more movement (e.g., allowing the baby to look around while being carried).

Various advantages can be provided by the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the baby carrying apparatus 100 can provide a combination of a baby wrap and a baby carrier, allowing the support of a carrier with the lightness of a wrap. In some exemplary embodiments, the composition of the panels and shoulder straps can be approximately 92% cotton and approximately 8% spandex. This combination allows for a lightweight material while providing a dense hybrid material that can be used for a baby carrier. The seated part of the panels where a baby sits comprises a gathered fabric to offer an adjustable seat with the bum of the baby going lower (as shown in FIG. 3), providing a more ergonomic position without the need for any adjustments. The baby can be oriented towards the parent, and the seat allows the baby's nose to be parallel to the ground. The baby's spine, pelvis and legs are well-supported within the panels, where the baby's legs are in a spread-squat position. As shown in FIG. 3, the panels can be spread to the back of the baby's knees.

The fabric loops allow for an efficient adjustment from a wrap style carrier to a structured carrier and reverse. The fabric loops enable the user to gather the fabric on the shoulder straps for easy adjustment. The fabric loops can be removable and slidable on the shoulder straps, allowing a user to adjust the height and width of the panel and shoulder supports. The higher the fabric loops are, the more similar it will be to a baby wrap with more of the baby's head being covered and closer to the body of the adult. The lower the fabric loops are, the more similar it will be to a baby carrier with the baby's face more visible and a different spread and support on the adult's shoulders. The fabric loops can allow for a quick change from a baby carrier to a baby wrap and adjustment for bigger and smaller babies. Further, the combination of the gathered elastic woven fabric on which the baby sits, along with the padded openings enables the automatic adjustment of the apparatus. The combination of stretchy fabric with the woven waist belt fabric provides unique usability and adjustability of the product.

Various other considerations can also be addressed in the exemplary applications described according to the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, various materials may be used to construct the elements described in the figures. For example, cotton, spandex, velvet, polyester or other materials or combinations thereof can be used to construct the baby carrying apparatus 100. Various sizes of the elements, such as the panels, shoulder straps, waist band, etc., can also be provided for various sizes of the baby carrying apparatus 100. Various attachment mechanisms, such as buckles, buttons, hook and loop, or ties can be used for the construction and adjustability of the baby carrying apparatus.

The foregoing merely illustrates the principles of the disclosure. Various modifications and alterations to the described embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein. It will thus be appreciated that those skilled in the art will be able to devise numerous systems, arrangements, manufacture and methods which, although not explicitly shown or described herein, embody the principles of the disclosure and are thus within the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

Claims

1. A baby carrying apparatus comprising: a waist support having a top portion, right side portion and left side portion;a first and second strap each having a first end and a second end, the first end of the first strap attached to the right side portion of the waist support and a second end of the first strap having a fastener element, andthe first end of the second strap attached to the left side portion of the waist support and the second end of the second strap having a fastener element configured to mate with the fastener element of the first strap;a first and second panel each having a top portion, bottom portion, right side portion, and left side portion, wherein the second panel is provided inward of the first panel, and wherein the bottom portion of the first panel and the bottom portion of the second panel is attached to the top portion of the waist support;a first side support extending from the right side portion of the first panel and a second side support extending from the left side portion of the first panel, the first and second side supports having a fastener element at distal ends;a first shoulder support extending from the top portion of the first panel;a first adjustable strap having a first end and a second end wherein the first end of the first adjustable strap is attached to the first shoulder support, and the second end of the first adjustable strap comprises a fastener element configured to detachably engage the fastener element of the second side support;a second shoulder support extending from the top portion of the second panel; anda second adjustable strap having a first end and a second end wherein the first end of the second adjustable strap is attached to the second shoulder support, and the second end of the second adjustable strap comprises a fastener element configured to detachably engage the fastener element of the first side support.

2. The baby carrying apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a first and second cushioned support, the first and second cushioned support attached to the top portion of waist support and configured to provide support for a baby's legs.

3. The baby carrying apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second shoulder supports further comprise a fabric loop configured to slide up and down the shoulder support.

4. A baby carrying apparatus comprising: a waist support comprising a first and second strap extending from opposite ends of the waist support;a first and second panel attached to a top portion of the waist support, wherein the second panel is provided inward of the first panel;a first side support extending from a first side of the first panel and a second side support extending from a second side of the first panel, the first and second side supports having a fastener element at a distal end;a first shoulder support extending from a top portion of the first panel;a first adjustable strap extending from the first shoulder support, wherein a distal end of the first adjustable strap has a fastener element configured to detachably engage the fastener element of the second side support;a second shoulder support extending from a top portion of the second panel; anda second adjustable strap extending from the second shoulder support, wherein a distal end of the second adjustable strap has a fastener element configured to detachably engage the fastener element of the first side support.

5. The baby carrying apparatus of claim 4, further comprising a first and second cushioned support, the first and second cushioned support attached to the top portion of waist support and configured to provide support for a baby's legs.

6. The baby carrying apparatus of claim 4, wherein each of the first and second shoulder supports further comprise a fabric loop configured to slide up and down the shoulder support.

7. A method for wearing a baby carrier, comprising: placing a waist support around the body of a user;detachably engaging fastener elements of a first and second strap extending from opposite sides of the waist support to secure the waist support around the body of the user;placing a first shoulder support extending from a first panel attached to the waist support over a first shoulder of user;routing a first adjustable strap extending from the first shoulder support across the back of the user;placing a second shoulder support extending from a second panel over a second shoulder of user;routing a second adjustable strap extending from the second shoulder support across the back of the user and over the first adjustable strap;detachably engaging a fastener element at a distal end of the first adjustable strap to a fastener element of a second side support extending from a first panel; anddetachably engaging a fastener element at a distal end of the second adjustable strap to a fastener element of a first side support extending from a first panel.