FIELD
This disclosure relates generally to an infant sleep structure. More specifically, the disclosure relates to rocking devices attachable to an infant sleep structure, and a stretcher assembly for stretching a mattress of the infant sleep structure.
BACKGROUND
Parents have long sought ways to comfort and soothe their infants or children in an attempt to get them to sleep faster. Motions such as rocking and swaying have proven effective in helping an infant or a child nod off more quickly.
SUMMARY
The rocking devices described herein relate to a means of permitting a soothing rocking and/or swaying motion for an infant or a child sleeping in a bed or other sleep structure in which an infant may be sleeping. The rocking devices are attachable to each end of an infant sleep structure in which an infant may sleep, which infant sleep structure does not normally have rocking capability. By attaching the rocking devices to the infant sleep structure, the infant sleep structure is provided with rocking capability. The infant sleep structure can be an infant play yard or playpen, a bassinet, a Moses basket, a carry cot, a crib or any other infant structure without rocking capability and for which a caregiver may wish to provide rocking capability. In some embodiments, the infant sleep structure may be portable.
In one embodiment, each of the rocking devices includes a rocking means that is removably attachable to an infant sleep structure to permit soothing rocking and/or swaying motion of the infant sleep structure, a selectively deployable stabilizing means to prevent rocking of the infant sleep structure when desired, and a means to removably connect the rocking means to the infant sleep structure. In another embodiment, the rocking devices can be built into or be integrally formed with the infant sleep structure, rather than being removably attachable.
In one embodiment, each rocking means can include a main rocker body with a curved floor-engaging surface that in use rests on the floor to permit the rocking motion. In one embodiment, the selectively deployable stabilizing means can include an actuator and at least one stabilizing leg. In one embodiment, the means to removably connect the rocking means to the infant sleep structure can be at least one connector.
Two of the rocking devices described herein are connected to two opposing sides or ends of the infant sleep structure. The rocking devices can be substantially identical to one another.
In one embodiment, a rocking device attachable to an infant sleep structure is disclosed. The rocking device includes a main body having a curved rocking edge. The rocking device also includes at least one connector mounted on the main body and configured to removably mount the rocking device to the infant sleep structure. The rocking device further includes an actuator mounted on the main body. Also the rocking device includes at least one stabilizing leg mounted on the main body and connected to the actuator. The at least one stabilizing leg has a non-deployed position that permits rocking of the rocking device, and a deployed position that prevents rocking of the rocking device. The actuator is connected to the at least one stabilizing leg to actuate the at least one stabilizing leg between the non-deployed position and the deployed position.
In one embodiment, a stretcher assembly for stretching a play yard mattress is disclosed. The stretcher assembly includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion and the second portion are connected to one another by a hinge to allow folding of the stretcher assembly. The first portion includes a sleeve that is movable relative to the second portion between an unlocked position and a locked position. At the locked position the sleeve is positioned closer to the second portion than at the unlocked position. At the locked position, the sleeve covers the hinge. The stretcher assembly also includes a lock mechanism on the second portion that releasably locks the sleeve at the locked position.
Other features and aspects will become apparent by consideration of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
References are made to the accompanying drawings that form a part of this disclosure and which illustrate the embodiments in which systems and methods described in this specification can be practiced.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an infant sleep structure and one of the rocking devices described herein attached to an end of the infant sleep structure, according to one embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a side view of the rocking device of FIG. 1 with the stabilizing legs deployed and the actuator in a downward or actuated position to stabilize the rocking device thereby preventing rocking motion.
FIG. 3 is a top view of the rocking device of FIG. 1.
FIG. 4 is an end view of the rocking device of FIG. 1 showing one example of how a leg of the infant sleep structure can connect to the connector of the rocking device.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing an infant sleep structure and two of the rocking devices described herein attached to opposite ends of the infant sleep structure.
FIGS. 6 and 7 are end views showing a rocking device for an infant sleep structure, according to another embodiment.
FIGS. 8 and 9 are perspective views showing a connector of the rocking device of FIGS. 6 and 7.
FIG. 10 shows a stretcher assembly connecting to a play yard mattress, according to one embodiment.
FIG. 11 is an enlarged partial view of the stretcher assembly of FIG. 10.
FIGS. 12 and 15 are perspective views showing the stretcher assembly of FIG. 10.
FIGS. 13 and 14 are cross sectional views of the stretcher assembly of FIG. 12 taken along lines 13-13.
FIGS. 16 and 17 are enlarged partial perspective views of the stretcher assembly of FIG. 10.
FIG. 18 shows a portion of the stretcher assembly of FIGS. 10-17 in an expanded state.
FIG. 19 shows a portion of the stretcher assembly of FIGS. 10-17 in a stretched state.
FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view of the stretcher assembly of FIGS. 10-17.
Like reference numbers represent like parts throughout.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The rocking devices disclosed herein can turn an infant sleep structure into an infant rocker. The rocking devices can increase the functionality of the infant sleep structure and provide parents with new options for use of the infant sleep structure. When an infant sleep structure is used for napping, some children find it difficult to fall asleep without movement. The rocking devices described herein can allow the option for gently rocking the child to sleep when the child is on the infant sleep structure.
In one embodiment, the rocking devices described herein are add-on devices that are removably attachable to opposite ends or opposite sides of an infant sleep structure that does not normally have rocking capability. When attached, the rocking devices provide the infant sleep structure with rocking capability.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an infant sleep structure and one of the rocking devices described herein attached to an end of the infant sleep structure (an identical or similar rocking device (visible in FIG. 5) is attached to the opposite end of the infant sleep structure).
The rocking device 10 includes a main body 12. The main body 12 has a curved rocking edge 14 that during use rests on the floor to permit a soothing rocking and/or swaying motion of the infant sleep structure 16. It will be appreciated that the curve of the curved rocking edge 14 can be an arc of a circular sector or any other suitable curve that permits a soothing rocking and/or swaying motion.
In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 5, the main body 12 has a circular-sector-like shape with a central angle θ that is less than 180 degrees. It will be appreciated that the central angle can be any suitable degrees provided that the shape of the main body 12 can be designed so that the rocking device 10 not only permits a soothing rocking and/or swaying motion, but also minimizes the amount of material used for the main body 12 (thus reducing the weight of the rocking device 10 and reducing the overall cost). The material of the main body 12 of the rocking device 10 can be wood, metal, plastic, rubber or any suitable material that allows the main body 12 to support the weight of the infant sleep structure 16 to which the rocking device 10 connects.
In one embodiment, the curved rocking edge 14 of the main body 12 can be made of material that is the same as the main body 12. In another embodiment, the curved rocking edge 14 of the main body 12 can be made of material that is different from the main body 12. For example, the curved rocking edge 14 can be formed by a layer or bead of material that is fixed to the curved edge of the main body 12. It will be appreciated that the material of the curved rocking edge 14 of the main body 12 is selected to prevent scratching of the floor, for example hardwood, tile, linoleum or the like, or other surface that the curved rocking edge 14 is engaged with. It will also be appreciated that the material of the curved rocking edge 14 of the main body 12 can be selected to prevent wear and tear over time when the rocking device 10 is placed on, for example, a tiled floor or a floor with a rough surface. It will further be appreciated that the material of the curved rocking edge 14 of the main body 12 can reduce friction and/or provide a smooth motion when the rocking device 10 is used on, for example, a carpeted floor.
The rocking device 10 further includes at least one stabilizing leg 20 that is selectively deployable between a retracted or non-deployed position (shown in FIGS. 1 and 5) and an extended or deployed position (shown in FIG. 2), and an actuator 22 connected to the at least one stabilizing leg 20 that controls actuation of the stabilizing leg 20 between the non-deployed and deployed positions. FIG. 2 illustrates two of the stabilizing legs 20, each of which is selectively deployable between the non-deployed and deployed positions. When the stabilizing legs 20 are actuated to the deployed position, the stabilizing legs 20 prevent the rocking device 10, and the infant sleep structure 16, from rocking. It will be appreciated that the actuator 22 and the stabilizing legs 20 can be integrated as a single piece or be separate components.
As shown in FIG. 1, the rocking device 10 is attached to one side or end of the infant sleep structure 16 and is shown with the stabilizing legs 20 retracted. In such embodiment, the actuator 22 for actuating the stabilizing legs 20 is at uppermost or retracted position. Only one of the rocking devices 10 at one end/side of the infant sleep structure 16 is visible in FIG. 1, it being understood that a similar or identical rocking device 10 is disposed at the opposite end/side of the infant sleep structure 16 as shown in FIG. 5.
Referring to FIGS. 1 and 5, the main body 12 has a groove 24 that extends in a vertical direction. The actuator 22 is mounted in the groove 24 and is slidable within the groove 24 between the retracted position shown in FIGS. 1 and 5 and a deployed position shown in FIG. 2. The actuator 22 is located at an upper position in the groove 24 at the retracted position of the actuator 22, and located at a lower position in the groove 24 at the deployed position of the actuator 22. The actuator 22 can be a handle that extends in a direction perpendicular to the first side 26 of the main body 12. The actuator 22 also has two arms 28a, 28b movably connected thereto, and the stabilizing legs 20 are mounted at the ends of the arm 28a, 28b. The proximal ends of the two arms 28a, 28b connect to the actuator 22. Each of the two arms 28a, 28b is movable at the proximal end of each arm 28a, 28b about the axis of the actuator 22. The distal end of each arm 28a, 28b connects to the corresponding stabilizing leg 20.
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, when the actuator 22 is an upper position in the groove 24, the two arms 28a, 28b are disposed at an angle relative to one another and the two stabilizing legs 20 are retracted by the arms 28a, 28b to a retracted position such that the two stabilizing legs 20 are retracted so that they do not project beyond the curved rocking edge 14. In this position, the curved rocking edge 14 of the main body 12 can provide a soothing rocking and/or swaying motion to the infant sleep structure 16 without being impacted by the two stabilizing legs 20.
As illustrated in FIG. 2, when the actuator 22 is moved to a lower position in the groove 24, the arms 28a, 28b move with the actuator 22 and move to become generally parallel to each other. The two stabilizing legs 20 are rotated by the arms 28a, 28b so that the legs 20 are generally parallel to the groove 24 and extend beyond the curved rocking edge 14 either into engagement with the floor or to a position close to the floor. At this position, because the legs 20 are engaged with or very near the floor, the two stabilizing legs 20 prevent all or most rocking motion of the rocking device 10.
The material of the actuator 22 and the stabilizing legs 20 of the rocking device 10 can be wood, metal, plastic, rubber or any suitable material that allows the stabilizing legs 20 to prevent all or most rocking motion of the rocking device 10. In one embodiment, the stabilizing legs 20 can be made of material that is the same as the actuator 22. In another embodiment, the stabilizing legs 20 can be made of material that is different from the actuator 22.
It will be appreciated that the material of the stabilizing legs 20 is selected to prevent scratching of the floor, made of hardwood, tile, linoleum or the like, or other surface that the stabilizing legs 20 are engaged with when deployed to prevent rocking motion. It will also be appreciated that the material of the stabilizing legs 20 can be selected to prevent wear and tear over time when the rocking device 10 is placed on, for example, a tiled floor or a floor with a rough surface.
In one embodiment, the actuator 22 can be actuated between the positions shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 manually using one's foot or hand. In another embodiment, a handle can be attached to the actuator 22 with the handle extending upwardly toward the top of the infant sleep structure 16. Such a handle would permit easier actuation of the actuator 22 using ones hand without requiring the user to bend or stoop down to reach the actuator 22.
In one embodiment, a releasable lock mechanism (not shown) can be provided to retain the actuator 22 at the upper position and/or at the lower position in the groove 24. The lock mechanism can prevent unintentional movement of the actuator 22 when the actuator is at the upper position or at the lower position in the groove 24. In another embodiment, a lock mechanism is not provided; instead, friction can be used to retain the actuator 22 at the desired positions.
In one embodiment, a biasing mechanism such as a spring (not shown) can be provided that acts on the actuator 22. The biasing mechanism can serve to bias the actuator 22 either toward the upper position shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, or bias the actuator 22 toward the lower position shown in FIG. 2.
The rocking device 10 further includes at least one connector 30 that is configured to removably connect the rocking device 10 to the infant sleep structure 16. The connector(s) 30 can have any construction suitable for removably connecting the rocking device 10 to the infant sleep structure 16. In the example illustrated in FIG. 3, the rocking device 10 includes two of the connectors 30. The two connectors 30 are installed on a second side 32 (the side that is facing the infant sleep structure 16 to which the rocking device 10 connects, i.e., a side that is opposite to the first side 26) of the main body 12. Each of the two connectors 30 has a substantially half-circular shape with an opening 34 that is sized to receive a leg 36 of the infant sleep structure 16 as seen in FIGS. 4 and 5.
As illustrated in FIG. 5, two of the rocking devices 10 are attached to opposite ends or opposite sides of the infant sleep structure 16. One of the rocking devices 10 is attached to one side or end of the infant sleep structure 16 and is shown with stabilizing legs 20 retracted. In such embodiment, the actuator 22 for actuating the stabilizing legs 20 is at the upper position in the groove 24 or at a retracted position. The identical or similar rocking device 10 is attached to the opposite end of the infant sleep structure 16. Each one of the two rocking devices 10 includes two of the connectors 30. Each of the two connectors 30 has a substantially half-circular shape with the opening 34 that is sized to receive the leg 36 of the infant sleep structure 16.
The material of the connectors 30 of the rocking device 10 can be metal, plastic, or any suitable material that allows the connectors 30 to support the weight of the infant sleep structure 16 to which the rocking device 10 connects.
In one embodiment, the positions of the connector(s) 30 may be adjustable in order to accommodate different shapes and sizes of the infant sleep structure 16. For example, in one embodiment, the horizontal locations of the connector(s) 30 on the main body 12 may be adjustable to accommodate different widths of the infant sleep structure 16 (i.e., different leg spacing). In another embodiment, the vertical locations of the connector(s) 30 on the main body 12 may be adjustable to accommodate different heights (from the bottom of the legs 36 to the lowest supporting surface of the infant sleep structure 16) of the legs 36. In another embodiment, both the horizontal locations and the vertical locations of the connector(s) 30 on the main body 12 may be adjustable.
In one embodiment, there could be a means (for example, a fastener or adhesive material) for tightening the connectors 30 to the legs 36. In another embodiment, the infant sleep structure 16 may have wheels or other structures instead of or at the ends of the legs 36, in which case the connectors 30 can be configured to hold the wheels/legs to removably connect the rocking device 10 to the infant sleep structure 16.
FIGS. 6 and 7 are end views showing a rocking device 100 for an infant sleep structure 190, according to another embodiment. FIG. 6 shows the rocking device 100 as having a stabilizing structure (e.g., at least one stabilizing leg) that is actuated to an extended or deployed position to prevent rocking of the infant sleep structure 190, while FIG. 7 shows the rocking device 100 with the stabilizing structure actuated to a retracted or non-deployed position that permits rocking of the infant sleep structure 190.
As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the rocking device 100 includes a main body 105. The main body 105 can be a curved member such as a pipe or tube. The main body 105 includes a curved rocking edge 110. The curved rocking edge 110 of the main body 105 can be designed to permit a soothing rocking and/or swaying motion when engaged with a floor. The rocking device 100 also includes an actuator 115 mounted on the main body 105. The rocking device 100 further includes at least one (for example, two) stabilizing leg 120 mounted on the main body 105. The at least one stabilizing leg 120 has a non-deployed position that permits rocking of the rocking device 100, and a deployed position that prevents rocking of the rocking device 100. The actuator 115 includes arms 125, 130 connecting to the at least one stabilizing leg 120. When in use, the actuator 115 is configured to actuate the at least one stabilizing leg 120 to the deployed position (FIG. 6) to prevent the rocking device 100 from rocking, or to actuate the at least one stabilizing leg 120 to the non-deployed position (FIG. 7) to permit rocking.
Also the rocking device 100 includes at least one (e.g., two) connector 135 mounted on the main body 105. The at least one connector 135 is configured to removably mount the rocking device 100 to the infant sleep structure 190. It will be appreciated that the infant sleep structure 190 can be, e.g., the infant sleep structure 16 of FIGS. 1-5. The infant sleep structure 190 includes legs 195. It will also be appreciated that the at least one stabilizing leg and the actuator are mounted on a first side of the main body, and the at least one connector is mounted on a second side (opposite to the first side) of the main body.
The curved rocking edge 110 of the main body 105 is designed to rest on the floor and permit a soothing rocking and/or swaying motion. It will be appreciated that the curve of the curved rocking edge 110 can be an arc of a circular sector, an arc of a segment, or any other suitable curve that permits a soothing rocking and/or swaying motion.
The main body 105 connects to the at least one stabilizing leg 120 via the at least one connector 135. The main body 105 is rotatable in a clockwise and/or counter-clockwise direction. The actuator 115 can be used to actuate the rocking device 100 between the deployed position (shown in FIG. 6) and the non-deployed position (shown in FIG. 7).
The actuator 115 includes a handle 140, a hinge 145, and the arms 125, 130. The handle 140 is located at and perpendicular to a side 150 of the actuator 115. In one embodiment, the handle 140 extends perpendicular to a plane formed by the hinge 145 and the arms 125, 130. The handle 140 is configured to allow a user to use his/her foot to actuate the rocking device 100 between the rocking and the deployed positions thereby eliminating the need for the user to bend down or use his/her hand(s) to actuate the rocking device 100. The handle 140 can have a substantially flat surface so that the handle 140 can be pressed down and/or pulled up by a user's foot or hand.
In one embodiment, the handle 140 and the hinge 145 of the actuator 115 are integrally formed as one component. The arms 125, 130 are movably connected to the hinge 145. The proximal ends of the arms 125, 130 connect to the hinge 145. In one embodiment, a middle portion of the hinge 145 connects to the proximal ends of the arms 125, 130. Each of the arms 125, 130 is movable at the proximal end of each arm 125, 130. The distal ends of the arms 125, 130 connect to the at least one stabilizing leg 120. In one embodiment, each of the distal ends of the arms 125, 130 connect to a middle portion of the corresponding stabilizing leg 120. A first end of the at least one stabilizing leg 120 fixedly connects to the at least one connector 135. The at least one stabilizing leg 120 is rotatable along an axis at the middle portion of the at least one stabilizing leg 120.
In one embodiment, an end of the hinge 145 fixedly connects to one of the arms 125, 130. As shown in FIG. 6, at the deployed position, the arms 125, 130 of the actuator 115 become generally parallel to each other, or are disposed relative to one another at or about a straight angle or the arms are collinear. The at least one stabilizing leg 120 is rotated by the arms 125, 130 so that the at least one stabilizing leg 120 is generally perpendicular to the arms 125, 130, and a second end of the at least one stabilizing leg 120 extends beyond the curved rocking edge 110 either into engagement with the floor or to a position close to the floor. In one embodiment, an angle formed between the at least one stabilizing leg 120 (from the second end opposite to the first end of the at least one stabilizing leg 120) and the arms can be greater than a right angle. At this position, because the at least one stabilizing leg 120 is engaged with or very near the floor, the at least one stabilizing leg 120 prevents all or most rocking motion of the rocking device 100. It will be appreciated that the hinge 145 can retain the actuator 115 at the deployed position.
As shown in FIG. 7, at the non-deployed position, the arms 125, 130 are disposed at an angle relative to one another at an angle less than a straight angle. The at least one stabilizing leg 120 is rotated by the arms 125, 130 so that the at least one stabilizing leg 120 is retracted to a retracted position so that the at least one stabilizing leg 120 does not project beyond the curved rocking edge 110 into engagement with a floor. The at least one stabilizing leg 120 is disposed above the floor in a retracted position allowing the sleep structure 190 to rock on the curved rocking edge 110 of the main body 105. At this position, the curved rocking edge 110 of the main body 105 can provide a soothing rocking and/or swaying motion to the infant sleep structure 190 without being impacted by the at least one stabilizing leg 120. It will be appreciated that the hinge 145 can retain the actuator 115 at the non-deployed position. The movement of the rocking device 100 between the deployed position and the non-deployed position can be achieved by using one's foot acting on the handle 140 of the actuator 115.
The rocking device 100 can be made of metal or any other suitable materials. The at least one stabilizing leg 120 has an end for engaging with the floor. The material of the second end of the at least one stabilizing leg 120 can be selected to prevent scratching of the floor, made of hardwood, tile, linoleum or the like or other surface that the end is engaged with when the rocking device 100 is in the deployed position. The material of the curved rocking edge 110 can be selected to prevent scratching of the floor, made of hardwood, tile, linoleum or the like, or other surface that the curved rocking edge 110 of the main body 105 is engaged with. The material of the main body 105 can be wood, metal, plastic, rubber or any suitable material that allows the main body 105 to support the weight of the infant sleep structure to which the rocking device 100 connects.
Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, only one of the rocking devices 100 at one end/side of the infant sleep structure 190 is visible in FIGS. 6 and 7, it being understood that a similar or identical rocking device 100 is disposed at the opposite end/side of the infant sleep structure 190 in FIGS. 6 and 7, similar to that shown in FIG. 5.
FIGS. 8 and 9 are perspective views showing the connector 135 of the rocking device of FIGS. 6 and 7, according to one embodiment. FIG. 8 shows the connector 135 connects to the main body 105 and the at least one stabilizing leg 120. FIG. 9 shows the connector 135 connects to the main body 105, the at least one stabilizing leg 120, and the infant sleep structure 190.
As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the connector 135 includes a lock means for tightening the connector 135 to the infant sleep structure. The lock means includes a main body 175, a holder 170, and an extension 180. The main body 175 has a first portion connecting to the main body 105. In one embodiment, the first portion of the main body 175 is a hollow structure that allows the main body 105 to pass through (or partially pass through) and retains the main body 105 inside the first portion. The main body 175 has a second portion connecting to the at least one stabilizing leg 120. In one embodiment, a distal end of the second portion of the main body 175 fixedly connects to the first end of the at least one stabilizing leg 120. The second portion of the main body 175 extends (at a proximal end of the second portion) from a side of the first portion of the main body 175 and form a gap 165 between the second portion of the main body 175 and the holder 170. The gap 165 generally becomes larger from the proximal end to the distal end of the second portion. The holder 170 extends from an end of the first portion of the main body 175. The holder 170 includes grooves on a top surface of the holder 170. The holder 170 also includes an extension 180.
As shown in FIG. 9, the infant sleep structure 190 includes a leg 195, a frame 155, and a connect portion 160. The infant sleep structure 190 can also include a pin 185.
When in use, the grooves of the holder 170 match the shapes of the frame 155 and/or the connect portion 160 of the infant sleep structure 190, and hold the frame 155 and/or the connect portion 160 of the infant sleep structure 190. The leg 195 of the infant sleep structure 190 can partially pass through the gap 165 and be retained in the gap 165. The connect portion 160 of the infant sleep structure 190 can have a hole. The extension 180 of the holder 170 can have a hole. The pin 185 can pass through the hole of the connect portion 160 and the hole of the extension 180, and fixedly connects the connector 135 (and thus the rocking device 100) to the infant sleep structure 190.
It will be appreciated that the main body 175, the holder 170, and the extension 180 of the connector 135 can be integrated as a single piece or be separate components. The material of the connector 135 can be wood, metal, plastic, rubber or any suitable material that allows the connector 135 to support the weight of the infant sleep structure 190 to which the rocking device 100 connects.
Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, only one connector 135 at one end of the main body 105 of the rocking device 100 is visible, it being understood that a similar or identical connector 135 is disposed at the opposite end of the main body 105 in FIGS. 8 and 9.
Referring to FIGS. 10-20, a stretcher assembly 200 disclosed herein is configured to stretch a mattress (hereafter referred to as “play yard mattress”) for an infant sleep structure (for example, the infant sleep structure 16 of FIGS. 1-5 or the infant sleep structure 190 of FIGS. 6-8) in a way that the play yard mattress can be made tauter when the play yard mattress stretches over time. An example of a play yard mattress is described in U.S. 2016/0066705 the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
A comfortable yet air-permeable sleep surface is desirable for an infant to sleep on. If the sleep surface is comfortable, the child may potentially sleep better. A play yard mattress with a comfortable sleep surface can be used for the infant to sleep on. The play yard mattress also needs to be firm and breathable.
Comfort can typically be achieved by using soft materials. However, a soft sleep surface can sometimes be considered dangerous if, for example, the infant rolls to a prone position and buries his/her face into the soft material. Carbon dioxide, trapped by soft bedding materials, can build to lethal levels around the infant's nose and mouth causing suffocation or “positional asphyxia”. A highly air permeable sleep surface can help disperse accumulated carbon dioxide, eliminating or minimize the lethal rebreathing of the carbon dioxide. Using a loosely woven mesh material without any filler material can be preferred to accomplish the goal of dispersing accumulated carbon dioxide. The mesh material needs to be made taut enough to be used as a sleep surface, which requires that the mesh material be stretched across a rigid frame.
The play yard mattress can be made of mesh material/fabric. The play yard mattress can also be made of other breathable fabrics that increase the breathability of the mattress. Using mesh material or other breathable fabrics can create a breathable and light-weight mattress. Mesh material can lower the possibility of accidental suffocation. In addition, if a fluid is spilled on the play yard mattress, the fluid can leak through the mesh and onto the floor, thus aiding in drying of the play yard mattress. In one embodiment, the mesh material can include nylon or polyester screen material or other similar materials.
When in use, the play yard mattress needs to be stretched tight. In one embodiment, the play yard mattress can include a frame that can hold the shape of the play yard mattress. A stretcher assembly disclosed herein can stretch the play yard mattress over the frame in a way that the play yard mattress can be made tauter when the play yard mattress stretches over time. The stretcher assembly can also allow the frame to easily collapse for storage or transportation.
FIGS. 10-20 are perspective views showing a stretcher assembly for a play yard mattress for an infant sleep structure.
FIG. 10 shows the stretcher assembly 200 in a stretched (or tightened) state connecting to a play yard mattress 300. The stretched state is a state in which either the stretcher assembly 200 is fully stretched or tightened, or the stretcher assembly 200 is not fully stretched but the play yard mattress 300 that connects to the stretcher assembly 200 is fully stretched or tightened and the force from the play yard mattress 300 (or a frame of the play yard mattress 300) prevents the stretcher assembly 200 from being further stretched or tightened. FIG. 11 is an enlarged partial view of the stretcher assembly 200 of FIG. 10.
As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the stretcher assembly 200 includes a first portion 280 and a second portion 285. The first portion 280 includes a frame connector 205, a curved connector 210, and a connection bar 215. The second portion 285 includes a frame connector 206, a curved connector 211, and a connection bar 220. The first portion 280 and the second portion 285 are connected to one another by a hinge 250 to allow folding of the stretcher assembly 200. The first portion 280 also includes a sleeve 230. The sleeve 230 is movable relative to the second portion 285 between an unlocked position and a locked position. The second portion 285 also includes an adjustment sleeve 225 that is configured to adjust a length of the second portion 285. The two frame connectors 205, 206 connect the stretcher assembly 200 to a frame of the play yard mattress 300. The two frame connectors 205, 206, the two curved connectors 210, 211, and the two connection bars 215, 220 are symmetrically located on opposite sides of the hinge 250. Each of the two frame connectors 205, 206, the two curved connectors 210, 211, and the two connection bars 215, 220 can be a hollow structure such as a pipe or tube.
The play yard mattress 300 has an upper surface (not shown) and a lower surface 320. The play yard mattress 300 can include a frame 305. The frame 305 can form, for example, a rectangular shape. The frame 305 has two sides 310 and two ends 315. In one embodiment, at a location at or near the middle of each of the two sides 310 of the frame 305, each of the two frame connectors 205, 206 of the stretcher assembly 200 can respectively connect to the frame 305 at the lower surface of the play yard mattress 300. Each of the two frame connectors 205, 206 connects to each of the two curved connectors 210, 211, respectively. Each of the two curved connectors 210, 211 connects to each of the two connection bars 215, 220, respectively. The two frame connectors 205, 206 are generally perpendicular to the two connection bars 215, 220. The hinge 250 connects the two connection bars 215, 220. The hinge 250 is configured to allow folding or unfolding of the play yard mattress 300.
Referring to FIG. 11, the stretcher assembly 200 includes a lock mechanism. The lock mechanism includes a lock button 235 on the second portion 285 and a lock hole 245 formed in the sleeve 230. The lock button 235 is located near a proximal end of the connection bar 215. The distal end of the connection bar 215 connects to the curved connector 210. The proximal end of the connection bar 215 connects to a first guide rib 255 on the second portion 285. The first guide rib 255 can have a substantially flat surface. Two sides of the first guide rib 255 extend beyond a peripheral surface of the connection bar 215. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, only one side of the first guide rib 255 extends beyond a peripheral surface of the connection bar 215. In one embodiment, the proximal end of the connection bar 215 fixedly connects to a middle portion of the first guide rib 255. In one embodiment, the first guide rib 255 divides the connection bar 215 into two symmetrical halves in a cross sectional view (not shown). An end of the first guide rib 255 extends beyond the proximal end of the connection bar 215. The end of the first guide rib 255 movably connects to a first end of the hinge 250.
The distal end of the connection bar 220 connects to the curved connector 211. The proximal end of the connection bar 220 connects to a second guide rib 260 on the first portion 280. The second guide rib 260 can have a substantially flat surface. Two sides of the second guide rib 260 extend beyond a peripheral surface of the connection bar 220. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, only one side of the second guide rib 260 extends beyond a peripheral surface of the connection bar 220. In one embodiment, the proximal end of the connection bar 220 fixedly connects to a middle portion of the second guide rib 260. In one embodiment, the second guide rib 260 divides the connection bar 220 into two symmetrical halves in a cross sectional view (not shown). An end of the second guide rib 260 extends beyond the proximal end of the connection bar 220. The end of the second guide rib 260 movably connects to a second end of the hinge 250.
The connection bar 215 (and the first guide rib 255) is movable at the first end of the hinge 250. At the first end of the hinge 250, the connection bar 215 is rotatable along an axis perpendicular to the flat surface of the first guide rib 255. The connection bar 220 (and the second guide rib 260) is movable at the second end of the hinge 250. At the second end of the hinge 250, the connection bar 220 is rotatable along an axis perpendicular to the flat surface of the second guide rib 260.
In FIG. 11, the play yard mattress (not shown) is at an expanded state or a stretched state (the states will be describe later in detail), and the first guide rib 255 is generally aligned with the second guide rib 260 in the longitudinal direction of the connection bars 215, 220. From the configuration of FIG. 11, when the connection bar 215 or 220 is rotated along the axis perpendicular to the flat surface of the first/second guide rib 255, 260, the first guide rib 255 is not aligned with the second guide rib 260 in the longitudinal direction of the connection bars 215, 220, and the play yard mattress can be folded or loosened.
The sleeve 230 is a hollow structure that the connection bar 220 can pass through. The sleeve 230 includes at least one interior groove. The shape of the at least one interior groove generally matches the shape of the first and second guide ribs 255, 260, so that the sleeve 230 can slide along the first and second guide ribs 255, 260. The at least one interior groove is engageable with the guide rib 260 on the first portion 280 and with the guide rib 255 on the second portion 285 to guide movement of the sleeve 230 between the unlocked position and the locked position. In operation, the sleeve 230 can slide along the connection bar 220 in the longitudinal direction of the connection bar 220. The sleeve 230 can also rotate along the axis of the connection bar 220. When the sleeve 230 slides toward the second guide rib 260, the sleeve 230 can be rotated so that the side(s) of the second guide rib 260 can be inserted in the at least one interior groove of the sleeve 230 (see FIG. 12). After the side(s) of the second guide rib 260 are inserted in the at least one interior groove of the sleeve 230, the sleeve 230 can slide toward the first guide rib 255 (but cannot rotate because of the side(s) of the second guide rib 260 being inserted in the at least one interior groove), so that the side(s) of the first guide rib 255 can be inserted in the at least one interior groove of the sleeve 230.
A biasing mechanism (e.g., a spring, see 270 in FIG. 20) is located under the lock button 235. The biasing mechanism acts on the lock button 235 and is configured to bias the lock button 235 beyond the peripheral surface of the connection bar 215. The sleeve 230 has a lock hole 245. The lock mechanism includes the lock button 235 and the lock hole 245. The shape of the lock hole 245 generally matches the shape of the lock button 235 so that the lock button 235 can engage with the lock hole 245 of the sleeve 230 at the lock position to prevent the sleeve 230 from moving. At the locked position, the sleeve 230 is positioned closer to the second portion 285 than at the unlocked position. At the locked position, the sleeve 230 covers the hinge 250. The design of the side(s) of the first guide rib 255 and the second guide rib 260 ensures an alignment of the lock hole 245 and the lock button 235 in the longitudinal direction of the connection bars 215, 220.
In operation, after the sleeve 230 passes the first guide rib 255 and slide towards the lock button 235 (see FIG. 17), the lock button 235 blocks the sleeve 230 from sliding further (away from the connection bar 220). The lock button 235 can be pressed downward towards an inner of the connection bar 215, so that the sleeve 230 can slide further away from the connection bar 220. When the lock hole 245 is aligned (in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction) with the lock button 235, the biasing mechanism 270 acts on the lock button 235 and bias the lock button 235 so that the lock button 235 passes through the lock hole 245. As such, the lock button 235 engages with the lock hole 245 of the sleeve 230 and prevents the sleeve 230 from moving, and the stretcher assembly 200 is at the locked position. When the lock button 235 engages with the sleeve 230, the sleeve 230 covers the hinge 250 (and the first/second guide rib 255, 260) and prevents the hinge 250 from folding the play yard mattress.
It will be appreciated that when the lock button 235 engages with the lock hole 245, even if the lock button 235 is pressed down again, a mechanism (not shown) inside the sleeve 230 prevents the sleeve 230 from sliding further away from the connection bar 220. In such case, when the lock button 235 engages with the lock hole 245, if the lock button 235 is pressed down again, the sleeve 230 can slide back toward the connection bar 220, and the stretcher assembly 200 is at the unlocked position. The sleeve 230 is movable relative to the second portion 285 between the unlocked position and the locked position. The lock button 235 on the second portion 285 can releasably lock the sleeve 230 at the locked position.
It will be appreciated that the as shown in FIG. 11, the first guide rib 255 and the second guide rib 260 are fully visible to a user. The full visibility of the first guide rib 255 and the second guide rib 260 can indicate that the stretcher assembly 200 can be folded, e.g., by rotating the connection bar 215 or 220 along the axis perpendicular to the flat surface of the first/second guide rib 255, 260. As such, the play yard mattress that connects to the frame connectors 205 can be folded or loosened. The full coverage (by the sleeve 230) can indicate that the stretcher assembly 200 cannot be folded, because the sleeve 230 prevents the connection bar 215 or 220 from rotating. As such, the operation can be easy to use and intuitive for the end user (i.e., it is obvious that the operation is correct).
FIG. 12 shows the sleeve 230 sliding and/or rotating (see the arrows) toward the lock button 235. FIGS. 13 and 14 are cross sectional views of the stretcher assembly 200 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the connection bars 215, 220.
FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of the stretcher assembly 200 along the lock hole 245 (see lines 13-13 in FIG. 12) of the sleeve 230 when the lock hole 245 is not yet aligned with the lock button 235 in the longitudinal direction of the connection bars 215, 220. In such case, the second guide rib 260 blocks the sleeve 230 from sliding further toward the lock button 235 to cover the second guide rib 260, unless the sleeve 230 is rotated so that the side(s) of the second guide rib 260 can be inserted in the at least one interior groove of the sleeve 230.
FIG. 14 is a cross sectional view of the stretcher assembly 200 along the lock hole 245 (see line 13-13 in FIG. 12) of the sleeve 230 when the lock hole 245 is aligned with the lock button 235 in the longitudinal direction of the connection bars (215, 220). In such case, the side(s) of the second guide rib 260 can be inserted in the at least one interior groove of the sleeve 230, and the sleeve 230 can slide further toward the lock button 235 to cover the first and the second guide ribs 255, 260.
FIG. 15 shows the sleeve 230 sliding toward (see the arrow) the lock button 235.
FIGS. 16 and 17 are enlarged partial views of the stretcher assembly 200 of FIG. 10. As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the stretcher assembly 200 includes a stop mechanism 240 that limits movement of the adjustment sleeve 225 toward the lock mechanism. The stop mechanism is configured to prevent the adjustment sleeve 225 from moving towards the lock button 235. The adjustment sleeve 225 is a hollow structure that the connection bar 215 can pass through.
As shown in FIG. 16, the connection bar 215 includes a threaded portion 265. The adjustment sleeve 225 has an inner threaded portion (not shown) that matches the threaded portion 265. In one embodiment, the threaded portion 265 has male thread (external thread), and the inner threaded portion of the adjustment sleeve 225 has female thread (internal thread). In another embodiment, the threaded portion 265 has female thread (internal thread), and the inner threaded portion of the adjustment sleeve 225 has male thread (external thread). The adjustment sleeve 225 can be rotated and move toward the lock button 235. The stop mechanism 240 is located at an end of the threaded portion 265. There is a space between the stop mechanism 240 and the lock button 235. The stop mechanism 240 can prevent the adjustment sleeve 225 from moving further towards the lock button 235.
FIG. 18 shows a portion of the stretcher assembly 200 in an expanded state. The expanded state is a state in which the stretcher assembly 200 expands or unfolds a play yard mattress 300 that connects to the stretcher assembly but the play yard mattress 300 is not fully stretched or tightened yet. In FIG. 18, the stretcher assembly 200 is in an expanded state such that the play yard mattress can be further stretched or tightened (but not fully stretched or tightened yet).
When the adjustment sleeve 225 is rotated and move toward the lock button 235, the length of the second portion 285 decreases and the paly yard mattress is loosened, and the stretcher assembly 200 is changed from a stretched state to the expanded state. The stop mechanism 240 can prevent the adjustment sleeve 225 from moving further towards the lock button 235 to avoid under tighten.
FIG. 19 shows a portion of the stretcher assembly 200 in a stretched state. The stretched state is a state in which either the stretcher assembly 200 is fully stretched (e.g., the length of the stretcher assembly 200 cannot be increased anymore) or the stretcher assembly 200 is not fully stretched (e.g., the length of the stretcher assembly 200 can still be increased) but the play yard mattress that connects to the stretcher assembly 200 via the frame connectors 205 is fully stretched and the force from the play yard mattress (or frame) prevents the stretcher assembly 200 from being further stretched.
When the adjustment sleeve 225 is rotated and move away from the lock button 235, the length of the second portion 285 increases, and the play yard mattress is stretched (or tightened), and the stretcher assembly 200 is changed from an expanded state to the stretched state. A biasing mechanism (e.g., a spring, see 275 in FIG. 10) can bias and prevent the adjustment sleeve 225 from moving further away from the lock button 235 to avoid over tighten.
The connection bar 215 can include an indicator 290. The indicator 290 can indicate when the stretcher assembly 200 in a stretched state, by, for example, showing a color. The indicator 290 can indicate when the stretcher assembly 200 in an expanded state (or non-stretched state), by, for example, showing a color different from the stretched state.
FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view of the stretcher assembly 200 along a longitudinal direction of the stretcher assembly 200. FIG. 20 shows the biasing mechanism 270 under the lock button 235.
In operation, the stretcher assembly 200 can be changed from a stretched state to the expanded state (but not fully stretched or tightened yet) as shown in FIG. 20, when the adjustment sleeve 225 is rotated and move towards the lock button 235. In the expanded state, when the adjustment sleeve 225 is rotated and move away from the lock button 235, the stretcher assembly 200 can be changed from the expanded state back to the stretched state. The material of the lock button 235 of the stretcher assembly 200 can be wood, metal, plastic, rubber or any suitable material. The material of other components of the stretcher assembly 200 can be aluminum, steel, stainless steel, or any suitable material.
The terminology used in this specification is intended to describe particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. The terms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural forms as well, unless clearly indicated otherwise. The terms “includes” and/or “including,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components.
With regard to the preceding description, it is to be understood that changes may be made in detail, especially in matters of the construction materials employed and the shape, size, and arrangement of parts, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The word “embodiment” as used within this specification may, but does not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment. This specification and the embodiments described are examples only. Other and further embodiments may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof.
Patent Application
20190159604
