BACKGROUND
The present invention relates to infant-supporting devices and, in various embodiments, to bouncer seats, collapsible seats, and/or collapsible bouncer seats for infants and children.
Infant-supporting devices may comprise a variety of shapes, sizes and features. For example, infant-supporting devices may provide a safe and comfortable place for infants and young children to sit, lounge, recline, or lie. Infant-supporting devices may include features for securing, entertaining and soothing an infant or young child. Certain infant-supporting devices may be configured to move the infant or young child. For example, an infant-supporting device may bounce, rock, sway, oscillate and/or vibrate. An infant-supporting device can include a motor, such as an electric motor, for example, for driving at least one motion and/or can be manually-driven.
The foregoing discussion is intended only to illustrate various aspects of the related art in the field of the invention at the time, and should not be taken as a disavowal of claim scope.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Various features of the embodiments described herein, together with the advantages thereof, may be understood in accordance with the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a bouncer seat having a seat ring attached to pivoting arms according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the bouncer seat of FIG. 1 depicting a wire form positioned within the bouncer seat.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a pair of wire forms utilized with the bouncer seat of FIG. 1.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the bouncer seat of FIG. 1 with the seat ring removed and the pivoting arms placed in a collapsed position.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the bottom of the bouncer seat of FIG. 1 with the pivoting arms in the collapsed position.
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a portion of the bottom of the bouncer seat of FIG. 1 with the pivoting arms in an open position.
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a portion of the bouncer seat of FIG. 1 with a top cover removed and the pivoting arms in the open position.
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a portion of the bottom of the bouncer seat of FIG. 1.
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a free end of one of the pivoting arms of the bouncer seat of FIG. 1.
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the free end of one of the pivoting arms of the bouncer seat of FIG. 1 with the seat ring attached thereto.
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an intelligent vibration module of the bouncer seat of FIG. 1.
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a bouncer seat with a seat ring removed from a pair of pivoting arms according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 13 is a plan view of a bottom portion of the bouncer seat of FIG. 12 with the pivoting arms in a collapsed position.
FIG. 14 is a plan view of the bottom portion of the bouncer seat of FIG. 12 with the pivoting arms in an open position.
FIG. 15 is a top plan view of a vibration module for use with the bouncer seat of FIG. 1.
FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an infant-supporting device including a base assembly having a pair of arms and a support base, a seat assembly, and a mobile assembly, depicting the infant-supporting device in an assembled configuration in which the arms of the base assembly are in an extended orientation relative to the support base, the seat assembly is mounted to the arms of the base assembly, and the mobile assembly is attached to the seat assembly, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the infant-supporting device of FIG. 16, wherein an infant-supporting sling is attached to the seat assembly.
FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the infant-supporting device of FIG. 16, with various parts of the base assembly removed to expose portions of a spring member disposed within the base assembly.
FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the infant-supporting device of FIG. 16.
FIG. 19A is a detail view of a sleeve on a frame of the seat assembly of FIG. 19.
FIG. 19B is another detail view of the sleeve of FIG. 19 with a portion of the sleeve removed to expose a leaf spring positioned within the sleeve.
FIG. 20 is an exploded side elevation view of the infant-supporting device of FIG. 16.
FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the base assembly of FIG. 16, depicting the base assembly in a collapsed configuration in which the arms of the base assembly are rotated inward and downward from the extended orientation depicted in FIG. 16.
FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the spring member of FIG. 18 depicting a fixed end portion, a free end portion, and a cradled portion therebetween.
FIG. 23 is a front elevation view of the spring member of FIG. 22.
FIG. 24 is a rear elevation view of the spring member of FIG. 22.
FIG. 25 is a side elevation view of the spring member of FIG. 22 further depicting an end portion of the corresponding arm of FIG. 16 secured to the free end portion of the spring member.
FIG. 26 is another side elevation view of the spring member of FIG. 22 further depicting a lower portion of a pivot joint body of the base assembly of FIG. 16 supporting the cradled portion of the spring member.
FIG. 27 is a top plan view of the base assembly of FIG. 16 with an upper portion of the support base housing removed to expose the spring member of FIG. 18 supported by a lower portion of the support base housing and a lower portion of the pivot joint body of FIG. 26.
FIG. 27A is a detail view of a portion of the base assembly of FIG. 27.
FIG. 27B is another detail view of another portion of the base assembly of FIG. 27.
FIG. 28 is a bottom plan view of a portion of the base assembly of FIG. 16 with a lower portion of the support base housing removed to expose the spring member of FIG. 18 positioned in the upper portion of the support base housing and an upper portion of the pivot joint body.
FIG. 29 is a perspective view of one of the arms of the base assembly of FIG. 16.
FIG. 30 is a rear elevation view of the arm of FIG. 29.
FIG. 31 is a top perspective view of the base assembly of FIG. 16 with the arms thereof in the extended orientation and with the upper portion of the support base housing removed to expose the pivot joint body of the arms.
FIG. 32 is another top perspective view of the base assembly of FIG. 31 depicting the arms of the base assembly in the collapsed orientation of FIG. 21.
FIG. 33 is a top plan view of the base assembly of FIG. 31 depicting the arms of the base assembly in the extended orientation.
FIG. 34 is another top plan view of the base assembly of FIG. 31 depicting the arms of the base assembly in the collapsed orientation of FIG. 21.
FIG. 35 is a front elevation view of the base assembly of FIG. 31 depicting the arms of the base assembly in the extended orientation.
FIG. 36 is another front elevation view of the base assembly of FIG. 31 depicting the arms of the base assembly in the collapsed orientation of FIG. 21.
FIG. 37 is a perspective view of one of the pivot joint bodies of FIG. 31 and a detent arrangement of the base assembly of FIG. 16 depicting the detent arrangement in an engaged position, which corresponds to the extended orientation of the base assembly.
FIG. 38 is another perspective view of the pivot joint body and the detent arrangement of FIG. 37 depicting the detent arrangement in a disengaged position, which corresponds to the collapsed orientation of the base assembly in FIG. 21.
FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional elevation view of a portion of the base assembly of FIG. 16 depicting stop surfaces of a hub of the pivot joint body in abutting engagement with rotational stops in the support base, wherein the orientation of the stop surfaces and the rotational stops corresponds to the extended orientation of the base assembly.
FIG. 40 is another cross-sectional elevation view of a portion of the base assembly of FIG. 16 depicting the stop surfaces of the hub of the pivot joint body of FIG. 39 rotationally offset from the rotational stops in the support base, wherein the orientation of the stop surfaces and the rotational stops corresponds to the collapsed orientation of the base assembly in FIG. 21.
FIG. 41 is a perspective view of a vibration-generating system of the seat assembly of FIG. 16.
FIG. 42 is a perspective view of the vibration-generating system of FIG. 41 with a battery cover and an upper portion of an enclosure removed to expose various internal components of the system.
FIG. 43 is a bottom plan view of the vibration-generating system of FIG. 41 with a lower portion of the enclosure removed to expose various internal components of the system.
FIGS. 44-51 depict exemplary control sequence flowcharts for implementation by a controller of the vibration-generating system of FIG. 41.
FIG. 52 is an electrical diagram of a control system for the vibration-generating system of FIG. 41.
FIG. 53 is a front perspective view of the bouncer seat of FIG. 1.
FIG. 54 is a front elevation view of the bouncer seat of FIG. 1.
FIG. 55 is a rear elevation view of the bouncer seat of FIG. 1.
FIG. 56 is a right side elevational view of the bouncer seat of FIG. 1.
FIG. 57 is a left side elevation view of the bouncer seat of FIG. 1.
FIG. 58 is a top plan view of the bouncer seat of FIG. 1.
FIG. 59 is a bottom plan view of the bouncer seat of FIG. 1.
The exemplifications set out herein illustrate various embodiments of the invention, in one form, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the embodiments as described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Well-known operations, components, and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described in the specification. The reader will understand that the embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and thus it can be appreciated that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and illustrative. Variations and changes thereto may be made without departing from the scope of the claims.
The terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and “comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has” and “having”), “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes” and “including”) and “contain” (and any form of contain, such as “contains” and “containing”) are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, a system, device, or apparatus that “comprises,” “has,” “includes” or “contains” one or more elements possesses those one or more elements, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more elements. Likewise, an element of a system, device, or apparatus that “comprises,” “has,” “includes” or “contains” one or more features possesses those one or more features, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more features.
For convenience and clarity, spatial terms such as “vertical”, “horizontal”, “up”, and “down”, for example, may be used herein with respect to the drawings. However, various devices disclosed herein can be used in different orientations and positions, and these spatial terms are not intended to be limiting and/or absolute.
“Bouncer” seats for soothing and comforting an infant are known in the art. Such seats generally comprise a wire frame having a base frame including a main portion which is adapted for receiving and supporting the seat on a supporting surface, and a pair of angular members which extend angularly upwardly and rearwardly from the front end of the main portion. Bouncer seats of this type generally further comprise leg and back frame portions which are supported on the angular frame members thereof, and a fabric covering which extends over the leg and back frame members for supporting an infant thereon. The angular members of the base frames of seats of this type are normally resiliently deflectable downwardly slightly toward the main portions of the base frames thereof. Accordingly, when an infant is supported on the fabric covering on the leg and back frame members of a seat of this type the infant can be gently rocked in the seat by moving the back and leg frame members up and down slightly so that the angular members are slightly resiliently bent downwardly, and then resiliently moved upwardly to gently rock the infant in the seat. Such an infant seat is described in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,553,786 to Lockett, Ill et al., entitled INFANT SEATING AND LOUNGE UNIT, which issued on Nov. 19, 1985, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
While the previously available bouncer seats have generally been found to be effective and desirable from the standpoint of providing effective seats which are operative for gently rocking infants, they have generally not been readily collapsible without disassembling the components thereof, and hence, it has not been practical to transport or store many of these previously available devices. In addition, such previously available bouncer seats are generally manufactured having an unappealing aesthetic appearance.
An object of the invention may be to provide a bouncer seat that is easily collapsible for storage and shipment. In accordance with at least one embodiment, there is provided a bouncer seat that includes: a base; a pair of arms connected on opposite sides of the base; a seat ring removably coupled to an end of each of the arms and configured to hold a child therein; and a pair of biasing elements configured to provide motion to the seat ring. Each of the arms is connected to the base by an interface that allows the arms to move from a first position in which the arms extend from the base and a second position in which the arms are folded onto the base. A first biasing element of the pair of biasing elements extends through the base, through the interface, and into a first arm of the pair of arms and a second biasing element extends through the base, through the interface, and into a second arm of the pair of arms.
With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, a bouncer seat, generally denoted as reference numeral 1, comprises a generally ring-shaped base 3, a first pivoting arm 5 and a second pivoting arm 7 extending from a front portion of the base 3 on opposite sides of the base, a seat ring 9 having a generally elliptical shape, and an intelligent vibration module 11 connected to the seat ring 9.
The seat ring 9 is designed to receive a fabric or other type of comfortable seat (not shown in FIG. 1) for an infant. Desirably, a plastic panel (manufactured from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), for instance) may be integrated into the bottom of the seat positioned on the seat ring 9 to help transmit vibration into the seat and to the child. The plastic panel is configured to come into contact with or in close proximity to the vibration module 11.
The base 3 includes a bottom portion 13 configured to contact a surface, such as the floor of a room, to support the bouncer seat 1 and a top cover 15 configured to mate with the bottom portion 13 to form a housing.
With reference to FIG. 3 and continued reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, a pair of biasing elements, such as substantially L-shaped wire forms 17 (one of which is shown by a dotted line in FIG. 2), are provided in the bouncer seat 1 to provide motion to a child seated in the seat ring 9. The wire forms 17 are covered along their length by plastic or elastomer parts to provide the bouncer seat with a more aesthetically appealing appearance. The first wire form 17 is positioned on a first side of the base 3 and passes through the first pivoting arm 5 and the second wire form 17 is positioned on a second side of the base 3 and passes through the second pivoting arm 7.
More specifically, each of the wire forms 17 includes a first portion 19 that is positioned within the housing formed by the base 3. A first end 21 of the first portion 19 of the wire form 17 is fixedly connected to the base 3. Each wire form 17 further includes a second portion 23 extending from the first portion 19 at about a 90° angle. The second portion 23 passes out of the housing formed by the base 3 and into a ball joint interface 25 provided between the base 3 and one of the pivoting arms 5, 7. Accordingly, the wire form 17 is configured to flex within the housing formed by the base 3 since it is supported at points at the front and the rear of the base 3. Each wire form 17 also includes a third portion 27 extending from the second portion 23 at about a 45° angle. The third portion 27 extends into the respective pivoting arm 5, 7. A second end 29 of the third portion 27 is fixedly connected within the respective pivoting arm 5, 7, thereby allowing the wire form 17 to flex within the respective pivoting arm 5, 7. Each of the pivoting arms 5, 7 includes a first half and a second half that are assembled using a fastener, such as a double-barbed fastener, with the third portion 27 of the wire form 17 positioned there between. In the example of a double-barbed fastener, barbs on one side of the fastener affix to the first half of the pivoting arm 5, 7, and barbs on the other side affix to the second half of the pivoting arm 5, 7. This results in a pivoting arm 5, 7 with no visible fasteners. Other forms of mechanical fasteners such as screws, bolts, rivets, adhesives, etc. may also be employed.
While conventional wire forms 17 have been discussed hereinabove, composite springs manufactured from fiberglass and/or carbon fiber, for instance, may also be utilized in place of the wire forms 17. In addition, the wire forms 17 may have a round cross-sectional shape or any other suitable cross-sectional shape. Alternative geometries for the wire forms 17 and alternative spring arrangements for a bouncer seat are further described herein.
With reference to FIGS. 4-8 and continued reference to FIGS. 1-3, the bouncer seat 1 of the present disclosure is a collapsible device for ease of transporting and shipping of the bouncer seat 1. In order to collapse the bouncer seat 1, the seat ring 9 is removed as will be discussed in greater detail hereinafter. Thereafter, each of the pivoting arms 5, 7 is rotated down towards the base 3 as shown in FIG. 4. The ball joint interface 25 between the base 3 and each of the arms 5, 7 guides rotation of each of the arms 5, 7 from the open position (FIG. 1) to the collapsed position (FIG. 4). The ball joint interface 25 may also prevent pinch points by virtue of movement along a seam so as to avoid the creation of gaps during opening or closing. With reference to FIGS. 12-14, the bouncer seat 1 may alternatively include an internal hinge and a sliding door 31 instead of the ball joint interface 25 to allow for motion of the arms 5, 7 while minimizing pinch points. Alternative geometries for the ball joints 25 and alternative joint arrangements for a collapsible base are further described herein.
The motion of each of the arms 5, 7 is guided upward when the arms 5, 7 are moved from the collapsed position shown in FIG. 4 to the open position shown in FIG. 1. For instance, each of the arms 5, 7 may gently rotate into the open position on its own using a “soft close” damper system similar to the system commonly used in kitchen drawers and in electronics for the opening or closing of doors, lids, and the like. Alternatively, each of the arms 5, 7 may be configured to be biased into the closed position until it is rotated beyond a certain point and then biased toward the open position. Such a configuration may be achieved using a cam with a spring acting radially on the cam.
With reference to FIG. 7, each of the arms 5, 7 automatically locks into an upright position when it reaches the open position through the use of a mechanical latching system 33. The latching system 33 includes a first latch or flange member 35 that is configured to engage a notch 36 provided on the ball joint interface 25 of the first arm 5 when the first arm 5 reaches the open position, thereby preventing the first arm 5 from moving to the closed position. In at least one embodiment, the latching system 33 also includes a second latch or flange member 37 that is configured to engage a notch 38 provided on the ball joint interface 25 of the second arm 7 when the second arm 7 reaches the open position, thereby preventing the second arm 7 from moving to the closed position. The latching system 33 further includes a handle 39 provided on a central portion of the base 3 that, when pressed, simultaneously removes the engagement between the first flange member 35 and the notch 36 and the second flange member 37 and the notch 38, thereby allowing the arms 5, 7 to be rotated to the collapsed position. More specifically, actuation of the handle 39 is configured to actuate a series of lever arms and/or linkages intermediate the handle 39 and each latch 35 and 37. The linkages are structured and positioned to move the latches 35 and 37 out of engagement with the notches 36 and 38, respectively, when the handle 39 is actuated. For example, the latches 35 and 37 are configured to simultaneously pivot out of engagement with the notches 35 and 37. When the latches 35 and 37 are released from the notches 36 and 38, the joints 25 are free to rotate such that the arms 5 and 7 can move from the upright position toward the collapsed position. Alternatively, a pair of buttons or levers may be provided to remove the engagement between the flange members and the notches separately allowing each arm 5, 7 to be moved to the collapsed position individually.
Alternatively to the latching system engaging a notch on the ball joint interface as described hereinabove, the system could also function without latches. To aid in assembly without latching present, the arms may be biased upward to position the arms properly. This can be achieved using a torsion spring, or with a cam and cam follower system. In addition, the same cam and cam follower system could provide a downward force on the arms when they are moved by the user beyond a certain angle of rotation. This would ensure the arms are always either in an upright or a down and folded or collapsed position.
While the collapsible, pivoting arms 5, 7 have been described hereinabove as being used for a bouncer seat, this is not to be construed as limiting the present disclosure as such pivoting arms may be utilized in other juvenile devices such as, but not limited to, a swing.
With reference to FIGS. 9 and 10 and continued reference to FIGS. 1-8, the seat ring 9 is removably attached to each of the arms 5, 7 using a pair of connection members 41 that are attached on opposite sides of the seat ring 9. Each of the connection members 41 mates down the length of the respective arm 5, 7 and/or mates transverse to the length of the respective arm 5, 7. In addition, each of the connection members 41 includes a button 43 configured to disconnect the mated relationship between the connection member 41 and the end of the arm 5, 7, thereby allowing the seat ring 9 to be removed. This double-button configuration allows for insertion and locking as well as easy removal from the ends of the arms 5, 7.
Additional views of the bouncer seat 1 of the present disclosure are provided in FIGS. 53-59. U.S. Design patent application Ser. No. 29/500,889, entitled BOUNCER SEAT, filed Aug. 29, 2014 is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
With reference to FIG. 11 and continued reference to FIGS. 1-10, the intelligent vibration module 11 is connected to a bottom portion of the seat ring 9. The vibration module 11 includes a housing 45 having a vibration motor (not shown in FIG. 11), power source such as batteries (not shown in FIG. 11), and a controller (not shown in FIG. 11) mounted therein. The vibration module 11 also includes a user interface 47 positioned on an outer surface thereof to allow a user to set the various vibration modes.
More specifically and with reference to FIG. 15, the user interface 47 includes a power switch 49 for turning the vibration module 11 on. Once the vibration module 11 is turned on, it is configured to provide multiple vibration modes and multiple vibration intensities. The vibration modes may be changed by the user by pressing the mode button 51 on the user interface 47. Examples of the different modes include, but are not limited to, constant, wave, and heartbeat modes. Feedback of the selection of the desired mode may be provided to the user using a display such as display 53 on the user interface 47. The intensity of the vibration may also be changed by a user using an intensity button 55 provided on the user interface 47. Feedback of the selection of the desired intensity may be provided to the user using a display such as display 57 on the user interface 47.
The vibration module 11 may further include power management and power saving features. For instance, the vibration module 11 may automatically turn off after a certain amount of time on so parents do not leave it on for too long unintentionally. In addition, the controller of the vibration module 11 may be configured to send a pulse width modulated (PWM) digital signal to the motor and the motor is designed to optimize power savings to lengthen battery life. In addition, the controller may be programmed to compensate for low battery voltage while maintaining consistent vibration intensity. For example, the controller can be configured to adjust a pulse width modulation signal to maintain a consistent vibrational intensity, as further described herein. When battery voltage is critically low, a low battery indication may be provided on the user interface 47 and vibration intensity is then permitted to reduce. Finally, the controller may provide an automatic shutoff at the end of the effective battery life.
The vibration module 11 may further include a 3-axis accelerometer (not shown) mounted within the housing 45 thereof. The accelerometer is operatively connected to the controller to allow the controller to determine whether a child is present within the seat based on the seat angle. The accelerometer is configured to measure the gravity vector and determine inclination and motion. If the controller determines that no child is present, the vibration is turned off to conserve battery life. In addition, the controller may determine the weight of the child based on the seat angle and measure and monitor the degree of “bouncing”. The accelerometer also allows the controller to provide feedback to the parent and/or child based on the determined bounce motion. This feedback may be in the form of vibration, lights, and/or audio. For example, an LED may be modulated to provide a pleasing pulsing effect that corresponds to the oscillatory motion of the seat. In another, non-limiting example, an acoustic signal can correspond to the motion through modulating of pitch, volume or other sound manipulation. The controller provides more feedback when the controller determines that there is more “bounce” present based on the signal from the accelerometer to encourage bouncing and play.
The signal from the accelerometer may also allow the controller to learn the behavior of a child that is placed in the seat. For instance, based on the signal from the accelerometer, the controller can determine whether a child falls asleep by monitoring changes to “bounce” over time. If the controller determines that a child has fallen asleep, the controller may automatically turn on vibration. Furthermore, the controller may also automatically turn on vibration when a child is placed in the seat and when a child is slowing down (i.e., getting tired) based on a signal from the accelerometer.
The vibration module may also include a wireless communication transceiver positioned within the housing 45 thereof. The wireless communication transceiver may be provided in operative communication with the controller. The wireless communication transceiver may be a Bluetooth transceiver, a Wi-Fi transceiver, or any other suitable wireless communication transceiver and may utilize the systems and methods described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/954,332, entitled WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR JUVENILE PRODUCTS, filed Mar. 17, 2014, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
The wireless communication module may allow a parent to remotely monitor a child's motion from another device, such as a smartphone, tablet computer, personal computer, or any other suitable device. It may also allow for remote control of vibration from the other device and remote control of audio from another device. The audio may be built into the vibration module 11 or it could be streamed from the other device. Finally, the wireless communication module may allow user data to be collected and transmitted to the manufacturer of the bouncer seat for evaluation and future improvements.
Referring now to FIG. 16, a device 100 is depicted. The device 100 is configured to support an infant or small child. In the illustrated arrangement, the device 100 includes a base assembly 102 that includes a pair of arms 104 and a support base 120. The device 100 also includes a seat assembly 140 having a frame or seat ring 142. The device 100 is depicted in an assembled configuration in FIG. 1. In the assembled configuration, the arms 104 of the base assembly 102 are in an extended orientation relative to the support base 120. Additionally, in the assembled configuration, the seat assembly 140 is mounted to the arms 104 of the base assembly 102. A mobile assembly 180 is also attached to the seat assembly 140. In other embodiments, the base assembly 102 may include a single arm that is configured to support the seat assembly 140 and, in still other embodiments, the base assembly 102 may include more than two arms that are configured to support the seat assembly 140. The one or more arms of the base assembly 102 can be collapsible relative to the support base 120, as further described herein.
Referring now to FIG. 17, in the illustrated embodiment, an infant-support sling 144 is attached to the seat assembly 140. The infant-supporting sling 144 includes a restraint 148, which is configured to restrain a child positioned in the seat assembly 140. In certain instances, the restraint 148 can include straps, buckles, and/or latches for securing a child within the seat assembly 140. For example, the restraint 148 can be coupled to a five-point harness system. The infant-supporting sling 144 can extend over and/or around portions of the frame 142. The infant-supporting sling 144 can further include at least one fastener, such as a snap, button, zipper, hook and loop fasteners, and/or combinations thereof, for example, for removably securing the sling 144 to the frame 142 of the seat assembly 140. For example, the infant-supporting sling 144 includes a zipper 141 around the perimeter thereof, and the sling 144 can be zippered around the frame 142. In such instances, the frame 142 is hidden from view when the sling 144 is attached thereto (see e.g. FIG. 17). Additionally, the infant-supporting sling 144 can include a buckle that is configured to secure the sling 144 around the vibration-generating assembly 146. For example, portions of the sling 144 can extend around the vibration-generating assembly 146, and a buckle positioned against the underside of the vibration-generating assembly 146 can secure the portions of the sling 144 together.
The infant-supporting sling 144 can be comprised, for example, of fabric, foam, netting, and/or flexible plastic. For example, the infant-supporting sling 144 can be comprised of plastic-coated fabric. The infant-supporting sling 144 can be comprised of a conformable material, which can conform to a child positioned in the seat assembly 140. In certain instances, a substantially rigid or semi-rigid panel 145 can be integrated and/or embedded into the infant-supporting sling 144. Such a panel 145 can be positioned against and/or adjacent to a vibration-generating assembly 146, and can transmit vibrations from the assembly 146, through the sling 144, and to a child positioned in the sling 144. The panel 145 can be comprised of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene, and/or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), for example. In various instances, the sling 144 can include heating and/or cooling features. For example, the fabric can include a blanket, foot warmer, muff, electric blanket, warming pads and/or cooling gel inserts for adjusting the temperature of the child. In certain instances, the device 100 can also include a fan for cooling a child positioned in the sling 144.
In the illustrated embodiment, the support base 120 is formed from an upper portion 119 and a lower portion 121, which are assembled together with a plurality of threaded fasteners. However, other forms of fasteners and fastener arrangements may also be employed, such as snaps, for example. The support base 120 is substantially hollow. A cavity 123 (FIGS. 39 and 40) is defined between the upper portion 119 and the lower portion 121 of the assembled support base 120. In other instances, at least portions of the support base 120 can be solid. As described herein, at least one moving part, such as a rotating joint body 130 of an arm 104, for example, can be positioned in the cavity 123 of the support base 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the support base 120 defines a substantially ovoid shape. In other instances, the support base 120 can be circular, elliptical or another annular shape. In still other instances, the support base 120 can be non-annular, such as U-shaped or horseshoe-shaped or can comprise two L-shaped support base portions, for example. The support base 120 can be comprised of a substantially rigid material. For example, the support base 120 can be comprised of a thermoplastic polymer such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and/or polypropylene. In other instances, the support base 120 can be comprised of a metal, which may be cast or otherwise formed.
In the illustrated embodiment, the support base 120 includes four feet 117, which can be placed on a support surface, such as the floor, for example, to hold the support base 120 level or substantially level. In certain instances, the feet 117 can be adjustable to accommodate for variations in the height of the support surface. The reader will appreciate that fewer than four feet or more than four feet can extend from the lower portion 121 of the support base 120. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the feet 117 can be comprised of a material having a greater coefficient of friction than the support base 120. In such instances, friction between the support surface and the device 100 can be increased, which can improve a gripping function of the feet 117, and thus reduce slippage or movement of the device 100 relative to the support surface.
When the arms 104 of the base assembly 102 are in the extended orientation and mounted to the seat assembly 140, the frame 142 is supported by the arms 104 and held above the support base 120. The frame 142 is oriented at an angle relative to the support base 120. The angled orientation of the frame 142 can be selected to provide a comfortable lounging position for a child positioned in the sling 144 (FIG. 17), for example. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 142 defines a substantially ovoid shape. In other instances, the frame 142 can be circular, elliptical or another annular shape. In still other instances, the frame 142 can be non-annular, such as U-shaped, for example. The frame 142 can be comprised of a substantially rigid material. For example, the frame 142 can be comprised of a metal such as steel or aluminum. In other instances, the frame 142 can be comprised of a thermoplastic polymer such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polypropylene, and/or polyoxymethylene (POM). In certain instances, the frame 142 may include a rigid or semi-rigid seat for receiving an infant. Such an infant seat may be covered with fabric and/or another soft and/or compliant material for the infant's comfort and/or for aesthetic purposes. In various instances, such an infant seat may be attached and/or integrally formed with the frame 142. Where the seat frame 142 includes a rigid or semi-rigid infant-receiving seat, the seat assembly 140 may not include the infant-supporting sling 144 (FIG. 17).
As further described herein, when the arms 104 are in the extended orientation and mounted to the seat assembly 140, inward rotation of the arms 104 relative to the support base 120 can be restrained by the seat ring 142 mounted thereto. Additional locking mechanisms may also be employed to bias and/or hold the arms 104 in the extended orientation relative to the support base 120. Each arm 104 includes an elongate casing or shroud 105 that extends from a joint body 130. The casing 105 and/or joint body 130 can be comprised of a substantially rigid material. For example, the casing 105 and/or the joint body 130 can be comprised of a thermoplastic polymer such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polypropylene and/or polyoxymethylene (POM). In certain instances, the casing 105 can be comprised of a flexible material such as an elastomer, foam, and/or vinyl. Such a casing 105 can be slid over the spring member 160 without requiring any fasteners, for example.
Though the support structures for the seat assembly 140 (e.g. the support base 120, the casing 105 for the arms 104 and the joint body 130 for the arms 104) are substantially rigid and held in a substantially fixed, extended orientation during use of the infant-supporting device 100, a degree of movement or flexibility between the arms 104 and the support base 120 may be permitted. In particular, the arms 104 are configured to pivot or deflect downward relative to the support base 120 by virtue of a pair of spring members 160 disposed within the base assembly 102 (e.g. within the support base 120, the casings 105 and the joint bodies 130).
Referring primarily to FIG. 18, in the illustrated example, the spring members 160 are positioned entirely within the base assembly 102. In other arrangements, however, portions of the spring members 160 may be exposed. Because each spring member 160 is enclosed by the base assembly 102, the spring members 160 are not visible during ordinary use of the device 100. For example, each spring member 160 depicted in FIG. 18 extends through the support base 120 and through one of the arms 104. More specifically, each spring member 160 extends through a portion of the cavity 123 defined between the upper portion 119 and the lower portion 121 of the support base 120, through one of the joint bodies 130, and through the casing 105 of one of the arms 104. The spring member 160 includes a first end portion 162 (FIGS. 22-27A), or fixed end portion, and a second end portion 164 (FIGS. 22-24, 25 and 26), or free end portion. The first end portion 162 of the spring member 160 is mounted within the support base 120, and the second end portion 164 of the spring member 160 is mounted within the arm 104, as further described herein.
The free end portion 164 of the spring member 160 is configured to deflect relative to the fixed end portion 162 of the spring member 160 when a force is applied thereto, and the spring member 160 is configured to generate a restoring or spring back force in response to the amount of deflection. As a result, the free end portion 164 of the spring member 160 can begin to bounce or oscillate relative to the fixed end portion 162. Moreover, because the free end portion 164 of the spring member 160 is fixed relative to a mounting portion of the arm 104, which is fixed relative to the frame 142 by a sleeve 150, movement of the free end portion 164 affects movement of the frame 142 of seat assembly 140 relative to the support base 120.
In the depicted embodiment, the spring member 160 is comprised of a formed wire. The wire comprises a substantially circular cross-sectional geometry. The spring member 160 can be comprised of a metal such as steel. In at least one embodiment, the spring member 160 is comprised of heat-treated high-carbon steel, which provides a high yield strength such that inadvertent plastic deformation of the spring member 160 during use of the device 100 is substantially limited and/or prevented.
The spring member 160 defines a spring constant that affects the range of movement of the arm 104 relative to the support base 120. For example, for a given amount of deflection, if the spring constant is large, a larger force will be required to deflect the arm 104 toward the support base 120 and, if the spring constant is small, a smaller force can deflect the arm 104 toward the support base 120. The spring constant of the spring member 160 can depend on the material, diameter, length, and the geometry of the spring member 160. Moreover, the mounts and support structures for the spring member 160 within the base assembly 102, as further described herein, can also affect the bouncing or oscillatory motions generated by the spring member 160. In the depicted example, the diameter of the spring member 160 is 7mm. In other instances, the diameter of the spring member 160 can be less than 7mm or greater than 7mm. The stiffness of the spring member 160 is a function of the diameter of the spring member 160. For example, when the diameter of the spring member 160 is increased, the spring member 160 is stiffer (defines a greater spring constant) and less likely to permanently or plastically deform under a given load. When the diameter of the spring member 160 is increased, the spring member 160 is more flexible (defines a reduced spring constant) and more likely to permanently or plastically deform under the same load. The stiffness of the spring member 160 is also a function of the geometry and length of the spring member 160. For example, when the length of the spring member 160 is increased, the spring member 160 can deflect within a greater range of positions without plastically deforming, i.e., define an increased spring amplitude, and when the length of the spring member 160 is decreased, the amplitude of deflections provided by the spring without plastically deforming can be decreased. The period of oscillations and the deflection under a given load can also increase as the length of the spring member 160 increases. In various instances, the increased deflection, period, and deflection associated with a longer spring member 160 can provide a more desirable bouncing motion for the device 100. Accordingly, in at least one instance, the length of the spring member 160 can be maximized within the footprint of the support base 120 to optimize the bouncing motion.
The device 100 can be disassembled and portions of the device 100 can be collapsed. Referring primarily to FIGS. 19 and 20, the mobile assembly 180 can be disassembled from the seat assembly 140. The disassembly of the mobile assembly 180 and the seat assembly 140 can be toolless, as further described herein. Additionally, the seat assembly 140 can be disassembled from the base assembly 102. The disassembly of the seat assembly 140 and the base assembly 102 can also be toolless, as further described herein. User-friendly disassembly of the device 100 can improve the mobility of the device 100. For example, when the device 100 is disassembled, the overall footprint or size of the device 100 can be reduced. For example, the height of the device 100 can be reduced when the arms 104 are collapsed toward the base support 120. The reader will appreciate that, in various instances, packing and/or transporting of the device 100 can be improved or made easier when the device 100 takes up less space.
“Toolless assembly” and “toolless disassembly” of the device 100 can also improve the mobility of the device 100. As used herein, the terms “toolless assembly” and “toolless disassembly” mean that the device 100 may be assembled and disassembled, respectively, without requiring the user to manipulate or operate additional tools, utensils, wrenches, screwdrivers, keys, etc. In particular, the major components or subassemblies of the device 100 can be reassembled to assemble the device 100 in a new location or after a period of time without requiring the user to locate specific tools. For example, the base assembly 102 and the seat assembly 140 can be toollessly assembled together and toollessly disassembled. Similarly, the mobile assembly 180 and the seat assembly 140 can be toollessly assembled together and toollessly disassembled. Toolless assembly and toolless disassembly can provide a desirable convenience factor. As used herein, assemblies, subassemblies, and components that are releasably coupled can be coupled together and subsequently released without requiring any tools. In other words, releasably coupled assemblies, subassemblies, or components can be toollessly coupled and toollessly decoupled.
In the illustrated embodiment, the mobile assembly 180 is configured to be releasably coupled to the seat assembly 140. For example, the mobile assembly 180 can be attached to the seat assembly 140 and removed from the seat assembly 140 without any tools. A toolless engagement portion 181 (FIGS. 19 and 20) can mount the mobile assembly 180 to the seat assembly 140. For example, the toolless engagement portion 181 includes a portion of the mobile assembly 180, which is configured to fit into an aperture defined in a mounting portion of the seat assembly 140. Upon rotation of the engaged mobile assembly 180 relative to the seat assembly 140 (e.g. rotation approximately ninety degrees), the mobile assembly 180 can be secured or locked in place relative to the seat assembly 140. A detent is configured to hold or bias the mobile assembly 180 in its locked orientation relative to the seat assembly 140. In other instances, a portion of the mobile assembly 180 can be press-fit into an aperture defined in a mounting portion of the seat assembly 140. The portion of the mobile assembly 180 can be removed from the aperture when a threshold force is applied thereto. Alternatively, a mounting portion of the seating assembly 140 can be press-fit or friction-fit into an aperture defined in the mobile assembly 180, and can be removed from the aperture when a threshold force is applied thereto.
In other instances, the mobile assembly 180 can be integrally formed with the seat assembly 140 or secured to the seat assembly 140 with adhesives and/or mechanical fasteners, such as threaded screws, for example. The mobile assembly 180 can provide a visually-appealing focus to an infant positioned in the infant-supporting sling 144 (FIG. 17). In still other instances, the device 100 may not include a mobile assembly. Mobile assemblies for the device 100 can be interchangeable with other mobile assemblies, such as mobile assemblies for other devices. In certain instances, a mobile assembly for attachment to the device 100 can include motor-driven parts, lights, sounds, interactive features, and/or other powered components and/or features.
Referring primarily still to FIG. 19, the arms 104 of the base assembly 102 can be releasably coupled to the seat assembly 140. For example, the seat assembly 140 includes mounting sleeves 150, which are configured to receive a portion of each arm 104. The sleeves 150 each define a receptacle 152, and an arm is configured to extend into each receptacle 152. As further described herein, in the illustrated example, the sleeves 150 and the arms 104 can be designed to self-latch, or automatically move into locking engagement, when the arm 104 is inserted into the receptacle 152 of the corresponding sleeve 150. Actuation of a spring-biased button 138 can unlatch or disengage the arm 104 and the sleeve 150 such that the arm 104 can be removed from the receptacle 152.
Referring primarily to FIGS. 19A and 19B, the sleeve 150 is fastened to the frame 142 with a plurality of fasteners 154. Additionally or alternatively, the sleeve 150 can be adhered or otherwise fastened to the frame 142 using other suitable fastener arrangements. In still other instances, the sleeve 150 can be integrally formed with the frame 142. The sleeve 150 is a two-part sleeve, which is secured together with a plurality of fasteners 156. Additionally or alternatively, multiple parts of the sleeve 150 can be adhered or otherwise fastened together. For example, two sides of a sleeve can be snap-fit together. In still other instances, the sleeve 150 can comprise an integrally-formed part.
The sleeve 150 includes the spring-biased button 138 and a spring 158 (FIG. 19B). The spring 158 is a leaf spring, which is configured to bias the spring-biased button 138 into an unactuated position. The reader will appreciate that various alternative springs can be employed. An actuation of the spring-biased button 138 is configured to deflect the leaf spring 158 and move the button 138 to an actuated position. When the spring-biased button 138 has moved to the actuated position, the arm 104 (FIG. 19) can be released from the receptacle 152, as further described herein. In certain instances, the spring-biased button 138 can be replaced with a lever, slide, toggle, or other suitable attachment feature and/or mechanism for releasably mounting the sleeve 150 to the arm 104.
In certain instances, the actuation of the spring-biased button 138 can directly disengage the arm 104 and the sleeve 150. In other instances, the actuation of the spring-biased button 138 can actuate another spring-biased button. For example, actuation of the spring-biased button 138 can actuate a spring-biased button 108 (FIG. 19) on the arm 104. Such a dual-button embodiment is employed in the device 100 of the illustrated embodiment.
Referring again to FIG. 19, the arm 104 includes the spring-biased button 108. When the sleeve 150 is engaged with the arm 104, the spring-biased button 108 is positioned within the receptacle 152 of the sleeve 150. The spring-biased button 108 may comprise a lever button, which is biased toward an unactuated position by a spring 110 (FIG. 25). The spring 110 is a coil spring, however, the reader will appreciate that various alternative springs can be employed. An actuation of the spring-biased button 108 is configured to deflect the coil spring 110 and move the button 108 to an actuated position. When the spring-biased button 108 has moved to the actuated position, the arm 104 can be disengaged from the sleeve 150 such that the arm 104 can be removed from the receptacle 152.
The button 138 can interact with the button 108 to disengage the arm 104 from the sleeve 150. For example, when the button 138 on the sleeve 150 is actuated, the button 138 can actuate the button 108 within the receptacle 152 of the sleeve 150. Consequently, the button 108 on the arm 104 can be moved out of locking engagement with the sleeve 150 such that the arm 104 and button 108 thereon can be removed from the sleeve 150. To releasably couple the arm 104 to the sleeve 150, the arm 104 and the button 108 thereon can be moved into engagement with the sleeve 150. As the arm 104 moves into the receptacle 152 of the sleeve 150, the button 108 can be actuated by the sleeve 150 and can at least partially rebound toward the unactuated position to engage the sleeve 150. Until the button 138 on the sleeve 150 re-actuates the button 108 on the arm 104, the arm 104 can remain coupled to the sleeve 150.
In various instances, owing to the geometry of the arms 104 and the seat assembly 140, removing the arms 104 from the receptacles 152 may require simultaneous disengagement and release of both arms 104. Moreover, engagement of the arms 104 with the sleeves 150 may require simultaneous engagement of both sleeves 150. Engagement of the arms 104 with the sleeves 150 may also require the arms 104 to be in the extended orientation relative to the base assembly 102, as further described herein. Such arrangements can help to ensure that the seat assembly 140 is attached to both arms 104 when both arms 104 are in the extended configuration relative to the support base 120. This may improve the stability of the device 100 and ensure that the device 100 is properly and safely assembled. Additional or alternative attachment features are further described herein.
Referring primarily to FIG. 21, the base assembly 102 is collapsible. In particular, each arm 104 is configured to rotate relative to the support base 120 about a joint 112. Joint bodies 130 of each arm 104 are rotatably held within the support base 120, and each arm 104 extends from a joint body 130. The joints 112 each define a rotational axis A1, A2 (FIGS. 33 and 34), about which the joint bodies 130, and thus the arms 104, rotate relative to the support base 120. For example, the end 114 of each arm 104 is configured to move inward and downward toward the support base 120. The fully collapsed orientation of the base assembly 102 is shown in FIG. 21. The range of motion of the arms 104 is at least partially defined by the rotational axes A1, A2 of the joints 112 about which the arms 104 can rotate. The range of motion of the arms 104 is also restrained by at least one interference surface in the base assembly 102, as further described herein. Moreover, movement of the arms 104 is limited when the seat assembly 140 is mounted to both arms 104. In such instances, the ends 114 of the arms 104 are maintained at a fixed distance that is defined by the geometry of the frame 142 (e.g. the distance between the sleeves 150 on the frame 142), such that the ends 114 of the arms 104 cannot move closer together or farther apart when the frame 142 is attached to both arms 104.
The geometry of the spring members 160 can be selected to optimize the spring constant when the arms 104 are extended while facilitating rotation of the arms 104 to the collapsed orientation relative to the support base 120. For example, the free end portion 164 (FIGS. 22-27A) of the spring member 160 is configured to deflect toward the support base 120 within a defined range of motion to generate oscillations of the seat assembly 140 relative to the base assembly 102. Moreover, portions along the length of the spring member 160 are configured to deform as the arm 104 rotates relative to the support base 120. For example, the spring member 160 can twist and/or bend as the arm 104 rotates between the extended orientation and the collapsed orientation relative to the support base 120.
Referring primarily to FIGS. 23-28, in the illustrated example, the spring member 160 includes a first end portion 162 and a second end portion 164. The first end portion 162 is positioned within the support base 120 (FIGS. 27 and 27A), and the second end portion 164 is positioned within an end 114 (FIG. 25) of the arm 104. When the arm 104 is extended relative to the support base 120, referring to the orientation depicted in FIG. 27, for example, the first end portion 162 is laterally inboard of the second end portion 164. In other words, when the base assembly 102 is in the extended orientation, the second end portion 164 is laterally outboard of the first end portion 162. For example, the second end portions 164 depicted in FIG. 27 extend laterally outward of the support base 120. Moreover, when the base assembly 102 is moved to the collapsed orientation, each second end portion 164 is configured to rotate laterally inward of the corresponding first end portion 162.
The first end portion 162 is held relative to the support base 120 by a fastener 176 (FIGS. 27 and 27A) that is fastened or otherwise fixed to the support base 120. The first end portion 162 is simply supported by the fastener 176 such that the first end portion 162 is held within a range of positions relative to the base support 120. For example, the fastener 176 is configured to restrain the first end portion 162 and permit restrained movement of the first end portion 162 within the support base 120. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 27 and 27A, the first end portion 162 is configured to rotate and translate relative to the fastener 176. In such instances, the first end portion 162 may shift as the arm 104 is rotated relative to the support base 120, for example.
The second end portion 164 of the spring member 160 is held relative to the end 114 of the arm 104. For example, the end 114 of the arm 104 can be clamped around the second end portion 164. Protrusions, lobes, beads, and/or detents 165 on the second end portion 164 are configured to prevent relative movement of the end 114 of the arm 104 and the second end portion 164 of the spring member 160. In certain instances, portions of the end 114 of the arm 104, such as a housing 116, can be formed or molded around the second end portion 164 and/or the second end portion 164 can be press-fit or friction-fit within the housing 116. Referring primarily to FIGS. 25 and 26, the second end portion 164 is held within the housing 116 by an interference fit. More specifically, the protrusions 165 on the second end portion 164 fit securely within slots in the housing 116, and the protrusions 165 (e.g. FIGS. 23 and 24) prevent rotation of the second end portion 164 relative to the housing 116.
The spring member 160 includes a first length 172 adjacent to the first end portion 162, and a second length 174 adjacent to the second end portion 164. The first length 172 extends between the first end portion 162 and the joint 112, and the second length 174 extends from the joint 112 to the second end portion 164. The first length 172 is enclosed within the support base 120 and can bow or otherwise deform within the cavity defined by the support base 120. The second length 174 is enclosed within the casing 105 of the arm 104 (FIG. 18) and can bow or otherwise deform within the cavity defined by the casing 105. In instances where the casing 105 is flexible, the casing 105 can deform with the spring member 160.
The spring member 160 further includes a cradled portion 166 supported within the joint body 130. The cradled portion 166 can be supported between lower ridges 122 (FIG. 27B) and upper ridges 124 (FIG. 28) defined in the joint body 130. When the joint body 130 rotates with the arm 104, the ridges 122, 124 can affect rotation of the cradled portion 166 therewith. Moreover, as the cradled portion 166 rotates relative to the first end portion 162, the cradled portion 166 can rotate, twist or otherwise deform within the joint body 130.
As can be seen in FIGS. 22-26, the spring member 160 also includes a plurality of contoured portions and a plurality of linear portions. The contoured portions can be positioned intermediate adjacent linear portions. For example, the spring member 160 includes a first contoured portion 168 between the first length 172 and the cradled portion 166. The spring member 160 also includes a second contoured portion 170 between the second length 174 and the cradled portion 166. Additionally, the spring member 160 includes a third contoured portion 173 between the second end portion 164 and the second length 174. Referring primarily to FIGS. 23 and 24, owing to the arrangement of the contours 168, 170, and 173, the undeformed spring member 160 traverses a vertical axis L three times. The vertical axis L depicted in FIGS. 23 and 24 extends through the geometric center of the spring member 160. Additionally, referring now to FIGS. 27 and 27B, the undeformed spring member 160 crosses itself forming a loop 167. In other words, the undeformed spring member 160 doubles-back upon itself to form the loop 167. The undeformed spring member 160 also crosses the rotational axis A1, A2 of the joint body 130 on which it is supported (see FIGS. 33 and 35).
In various instances, the mounting and support structures for the spring member 160 in the base assembly 120, further described above, can be selected to optimize the bouncing or oscillatory motions generated by the spring member 160. For example, dampening of the spring member's 160 oscillations can be caused by friction or by deflection of other less-elastic parts of the device 100 during a bouncing motion. The mounting and support structures for the spring member 160 are selected to minimize the dampening effect caused by friction and deflection of other less-elastic parts of the device 100. For example, friction generated from the rotational displacement of the ball joint 130 within the base support 120, from the rotational and/or translational displacement of the second spring end 162 in the fastener 176, and/or from the deflections of the spring member 160 within the support base 120 and the casings 105 of the arms 104 is minimized in the depicted embodiment by providing sufficient clearance. Additionally or alternatively, various close-fitting joints and/or regions of potential interference in the base assembly 102 could be lubricated.
To reduce the dampening effect associated with the deflection of parts that are less elastic than the spring member 160, the device 100 is designed to efficiently transfer the weight of the seat assembly 140, including the weight of a child positioned in the sling 144 (FIG. 17) of the seat assembly 140, to the spring member 160 and from the spring member 160 to the support surface for the device 100 (e.g. the ground). For example, in the depicted embodiment, the seat frame 142 is positioned directly over the free end portion 164 of the spring member 160 and the end 114 of the arm 104 is securely mounted to the free end portion 164 of the spring member 160 by beads or protrusions 165 engaged with at least one slot defined in the housing 116 at the end 114 of the arm 104 (see FIGS. 25 and 26). In such embodiments, the weight in the seat assembly 140 is directly transferred to the free end portion 164 of the spring member 160. Additionally, the fixed end portion 162 of the spring member 160 is positioned directly over the rear feet 117 of the support base 120, which transfers the weight in the spring member 160 directly to the support surface to prevent and/or limit deformation and/or flexing of the support base 120.
The reader will appreciate that various alternative geometries can be selected for the spring members 160. For example, at least one of the spring members 160 can be replaced with a leaf spring, a torsion spring, or an alternative spring that provides for flexibility of the base assembly 102. In various instances, each arm 104 can include a plurality of spring members. In still other instances, the arms 104 may not include the spring member 160 or an equivalent, alternative spring member. In such instances, the infant-supporting device 100 can comprise a non-bouncing or non-oscillating seat assembly 140. For example, the seat assembly 140 can be held stationary by the base assembly 102.
In certain instances, a spring member can be comprised of two or more segments. The multiple segments of such a spring member can be assembled together to form the spring member and can be disassembled to facilitate packing, storage, and/or transportation of the infant-supporting device 100. The segments of the spring member can be connected at a joint or coupling. For example, the spring member segments can be connected with a coupling tube. In various instances, the base assembly 102 can include corresponding junction, which can be detached when the segments of the spring member are disassembled and can be attached when the segments of the spring member are assembled. At least one joint in a segmented spring member can be between the portion of the spring member positioned in the support base 120 and the free end portion of the spring member. In at least one instance, the arm 104 can include a corresponding junction such that the arm 104 and the spring member therein can be decoupled and recoupled, for example. In the foregoing embodiment, the base assembly can be collapsed by decoupling the segments of the spring member and the portions of the arm without rotating the arms 104. Various types of spring members in the base assembly may be segmented, such as the spring member 160, a leaf spring, and/or a torsion spring, for example.
Referring primarily to FIGS. 29-40, the casing 105 of the arm 104 is connected to the joint body 130. As the arm 104 moves relative to the support base 120, the joint body 130 is configured to rotate relative to the support base 120 and along with the arm 104. The joint body 130 includes hubs 132 and 134. The body 130 defines a substantially ovoid shape. In other instances, the body 130 can be spherical or egg-shaped, for example. The reader will appreciate that the body 130 can define a variety of suitable geometries based on the geometry of the cavity 123 (FIGS. 39 and 40) defined by the support base 120. The body 130 is supported for rotational travel relative to the support base 120. Moreover, non-rotational travel of the body 130 relative to the support base 120 can be restrained or prevented by supporting structure(s) for the body 130, as further described herein.
The joint body 130 is structured to avoid pinch points between the rotating body 130 and the support base 120. For example, the seam between the body 130 and the support base 120 can define a smooth and substantially seamless transition. Additionally or alternatively, the joint between the arm 104 and the support base 120 can include a flexible joint, such as a flexible accordion shield around the joint, which is configured to prevent pinch points. In still other instances, the joint between the arm 104 and the support base 120 can include a plurality of substantially rigid collapsible segments or overlapping baffles, which can provide a shield around the joint to prevent pinch points.
Referring primarily to FIGS. 33 and 34, as the arms 104 rotate about the rotational axes A1 and A2, the joint bodies 130 rotate relative to the support base 120. The arms 104 are configured to cross a centerline L of the base assembly 102 as the arms 104 move between the extended orientations and the collapsed orientations. The centerline L extends through the geometric center of the support base 120. Moreover, the arms 104 are symmetrically coupled to the support base 120 about the centerline L. As a result, the joint bodies 130 of the arms 104 are positioned on opposing sides of the centerline L. In the extended orientation (e.g. FIG. 33), the arms 104 are positioned on opposite sides of the centerline L. Moreover, the end portion 114 of each arm 104 is laterally outboard of the joint body 130 of the same arm 104.
When the arms 104 are moved to the collapsed orientation (e.g. FIG. 34), each arm 104 crosses the centerline L. For example, the end portion 114 of each arm 104 is positioned on the opposite side of the centerline L from the joint body 130 of the same arm 104. In such an arrangement, the arms 104 are configured to rotate inward or laterally inboard as the base assembly 102 moves toward the collapsed orientation. Moreover, the arms 104 are configured to rotate outward or laterally outboard as the base assembly 102 moves toward the extended configuration. In other instances, the arms 104 may rotate toward the centerline Las the arms 104 move toward the collapsed orientation without crossing the centerline L. For example, when the arms of collapsible base assembly extend a shorter length than the arms 105 depicted in the embodiment of FIGS. 33 and 34, the end portion of each arm may not cross the centerline L even when the arms are fully collapsed relative to the support base 120.
Referring to FIGS. 37 and 38, the first hub 132 extends from a first end of the joint body 130, and the second hub 134 extends from a second end of the joint body 130. The hubs 132, 134 include a substantially circular perimeter, which facilitates rotation of the hubs 132 and 134 about the rotational axes A1 and A2. The first hub 132 is configured to rotate within an attachment yoke or bearing block 126 (e.g. FIG. 31) attached to the support base 120, and the second hub 134 is configured to rotate between guide features, such as ridges 178 (e.g. FIG. 27), protruding inwardly into the cavity 123 (FIGS. 39 and 40) in the support base 120. For example, wedges 135 protruding radially from the second hub 134 are positioned between adjacent guide ridges 178, as further described herein. In such an arrangement, the joint body 130 is rotationally coupled to the support base 120 and axial (i.e., non-rotational) displacement of the joint body 130 relative to the support base 120 is substantially prevented. Other features of the support base 120 can interact with the joint body 130 to further restrain axial displacement of the joint body 130 relative to the support base 120, as further described herein.
Referring primarily to FIGS. 37 and 38, a recess or notch 133 is defined in the circular perimeter of the first hub 132. The recess 133 can be configured to interact with a detent assembly 125 to releasably hold the joint body 130 in a predefined orientation relative to the support base 120. For example, the detent assembly 125 is configured to hold the joint body 130 in a position corresponding to the extended orientation of the arm 104 relative to the support base 120. In other instances, the detent assembly 125 can be configured to hold the joint body 130 in an alternative orientation relative to the support base 120. For example, the detent assembly 125 can be configured to hold the joint body 130 in a position corresponding to the collapsed orientation of the arm 104 relative to the support base 120 and/or at least one additional orientation of the arm 104 relative to the support base 120 between the extended orientation and the collapsed orientation. For example, the first hub 132 can include a plurality of recesses 133 corresponding to different rotational orientations of the joint body 130.
The detent assembly 125 includes a plunger or detent 127 and a spring 128. The detent 127 and the spring 128 are held within an aperture 129 (FIG. 27) in the support base 120, and the spring 128 is configured to bias the detent 127 into abutting contact with the outer perimeter of the first hub 132. The yoke 126, which is fixed to the support base 120, is configured to maintain the abutting contact between the hub 132 and the detent 127. Engagement of the detent 127 and the recess 133 in the hub 132 is shown in FIG. 37. The orientation of the joint body 130 in FIG. 37 corresponds to the extended orientation of the arm 104 relative to the support base 120 (FIGS. 31, 33, and 35). As a result, the detent assemblies 125 are configured to hold the base assembly 102 in the extended orientation.
A disengaged configuration of the detent 127 and the recess 133 is shown in FIG. 38. The orientation of the joint body 130 in FIG. 38 corresponds to the collapsed orientation of the arm 104 relative to the base support 120 (FIGS. 32, 34, and 36). To move the detent assembly 125 out of engagement with the recess 133, a user must overcome the spring force of the spring 128 to depress the detent 127 into the aperture 129, which permits rotation of the hub 132, the body 130, and the arm 104.
Referring primarily to FIGS. 37 and 38, the detent 127 includes ramped, cam follower surfaces 131a, 131b and the recess 133 includes corresponding ramped, camming surfaces 133a, 133b. The cam follower surfaces 131a, 131b on the detent 127 are configured to facilitate rotational disengagement of the detent 127 and the recess 133 when desired. Additionally, the cam follower surfaces 131 a, 131 b and the corresponding camming surfaces 133a, 133b also facilitate alignment of the detent 127 with the recess 133 when the recess 133 is within a range of positions approaching engagement with the detent 127. For example, the camming surfaces 133a, 133b are configured to bias the hub 132 into the orientation depicted in FIG. 37, which corresponds to the extended orientation of the arm 104 relative to the base support 120. In other words, the interaction between the camming surfaces 133a, 133b and the cam follower surfaces 131a, 131 is configured to bias the arm 104 into the extended orientation relative to the support base 120 when the recess 133 is within a range of positions adjacent to the aligned or engaged position (FIG. 37).
In various instances, the detent assembly 125 can be configured to bias the arm 104 toward the extended orientation when the arm 104 is in a range of positions approaching and/or adjacent to the orientation position. For example, the detent assembly 125 can bias the arm 104 toward the extended orientation when the arm 104 is within approximately five to fifteen degrees of the extended orientation. In certain instances, the detent assembly 125 can bias the arm 104 toward the extended orientation when the arm 104 is within approximately ten degrees of the extended orientation. In other instances, the detent assembly 125 can bias the arm 104 toward the extended orientation when the arm 104 is farther than approximately ten degrees and/or less than approximately five degrees from the extended orientation. For example, the detent assembly 125 can bias the arm 104 toward the extended orientation when the arm 104 is within approximately thirty degrees of the extended orientation.
Additionally or alternatively, at least one additional locking mechanism, such as a detent and/or ratchet, for example, can be employed to bias and/or releasably hold the joint body 130 in a predefined position relative to the support base 120. The reader will further appreciate that alternative embodiments of the infant-supporting device 100 may not include a locking mechanism. In still other instances, it can be desirable to purchase or initially obtain the device 100 in the collapsed orientation and then permanently assemble the device 100 in the extended orientation. For example, the collapsed orientation can be utilized when shipping the device 100 and/or otherwise moving the device to a consumer's home. Thereafter, the consumer may want to permanently assemble the device. In such instances, the device 100 can include a permanent or semi-permanent locking mechanism that permanently holds the base 102 in the extended orientation.
Movement of the joint body 130 can also be restrained by the wedges 135 (FIGS. 39 and 40) extending from the second hub 134. For example, the wedges 135 are positioned between adjacent guide ridges 178 (FIG. 28) extending into the cavity 123 defined by the support base 120. Such placement of the wedges 135 is configured to hold the joint body 130 in place axially within the support base 120 while permitting rotational displacement of the joint body 130 relative to the support base 120. Rotational displacement of the joint body 130 can be restrained by at least one hard stop and/or at least one soft stop. For example, each wedge 135 includes a hard stop (stop surface 136).
Referring primarily to FIG. 39, opposing guide walls 118 extend into the cavity 123 defined between the upper portion 119 and the lower portion 121 of the support base 120. The guide walls 118 are positioned for abutting engagement with the outer perimeter of the wedge 135. As a result, the wedges 135 are configured to interact with the guide walls 118 to restrain rotation of the joint body 130 relative to the support base 120. For example, the guide walls 118 are configured to engage the wedges 135 to limit or prevent rotation of the joint body 130 past the position corresponding to the extended orientation of the base assembly 102. Stated differently, the interaction between the guide walls 118 and the wedges 135 restrains rotation of the arms 104 between the extended orientation and the collapsed orientation. As a result, the wedges 135 and the walls 118 prevent over-rotation of the arms 104.
Abutting engagement of the guide walls 118 and the stop surfaces 136 of the wedges 135 is shown in FIG. 39. The orientation of the joint body 130 in FIG. 39 corresponds to the extended orientation of the base assembly 102 (FIGS. 31, 33, and 35). As a result, the wedges 135 prevent further clockwise rotation of the hub 134, which prevents over-extension of the arms 104 past the extended orientation. The stop surfaces 136 act as hard stops for the joint body 130.
After the detent assembly 125 has been overcome, as described herein, the hub 134 can rotate counterclockwise to move the arms 104 toward the collapsed orientation (FIGS. 32, 34, and 36). The orientation of the joint body 130 in FIG. 40 corresponds to the collapsed orientation of the base assembly 102. The guide walls 118 are configured to rotate along the outer perimeter of the hub 134 as the arms 104 move from the extended orientation to the collapsed orientation. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 39 and 40, the wedges 135 are configured to rotate between the guide walls 118 with minimal interference and/or resistance as the arms 104 move from the extended position (FIG. 39) to the collapsed position (FIG. 40). The terms clockwise and counterclockwise are used above for clarity with respect to the embodiment and perspective shown in FIGS. 39 and 40; however, the reader will appreciate that the wedges 135 and stop surfaces 136 thereof can be modified to control rotational displacement in the opposite direction.
Over-rotation and/or under-rotation of the arms 104 relative to the support base 120 can also be limited by the geometry of the arms 104, the joint body 130 and/or the support base 120. For example, in addition to the detent assembly 125, which seeks to hold or bias the arms 104 in the extended orientation relative to the support base 120 (FIG. 37) and the hard stop between the stop surfaces 136 and the guide walls 118 (FIG. 39), over-extension of the arms 104 past the extended orientation is prevented by interference between the arms 104 and the support base 120. In and/or near the extended orientation, the connecting flange between the arm 104 and the joint body 130 can be in abutting or near abutting engagement with the inner perimeter of the upper portion 119 of the support body 120. For example, as the stop surfaces 136 move into abutting engagement with the guide walls 118 (FIG. 39) and the detent 127 moves into engagement with the recess 133 (FIG. 37), the connecting flange between the arm 104 and the joint body 130 can move into abutting engagement with the inner perimeter of the upper portion 119. In other instances, at least one of the stop surfaces 136 and/or the detent assembly 125 can restrain rotation of the arm 104 before the connecting flange moves into abutting engagement with the inner perimeter of the upper portion 119. Additionally, over-collapsing of the arms 104 past the collapsed orientation is prevented by interference between the arms 104 and the support base 120. In the collapsed orientation, the connecting flange between the arm 104 and the joint body 130 can be in abutting or near abutting engagement with the inner perimeter of the lower portion 121 of the support body 120. Referring primarily to FIG. 27, the lower portion 121 of the support body 120 includes a cutout 115 that is configured to permit rotation of the connecting flange between the arm 104 and the joint 130 to the position corresponding to the collapsed orientation and prevent rotation past the position corresponding to the collapsed orientation.
In other embodiments, portions of the joint body 130, such as portions of the wedge 135 can be configured to restrain the clockwise rotation of the hub 134. For example, surfaces 137 (FIGS. 39 and 40) of the wedge 135 may interact with the guide walls 118 to provide a brake or soft stop for the arms 104. In such instances, the surfaces 137 can prevent further clockwise rotation of the hub 134, which prevents over-folding of the arms 104 past the collapsed orientation. Additionally or alternatively, in certain instances, the hub 134 can be configured to bias the arm 104 toward the extended position. For example, the surfaces 137 can be configured to bias the arms 104 toward the extended configurations. In certain instances, the surfaces 137 can initiate a biasing force after the arms 104 have rotated a predefined amount from the collapsed orientations toward the extended orientations. For example, the surfaces 137 can rotate the arms 104 toward the extended orientations when the arms 104 are within a first range of positions, and can rotate the arms 104 toward the collapsed orientations when the arms 104 are within a second range of positions.
In certain instances, the joint body 130 can include additional rotational restraints. For example, the hub 134 can include an additional stop surface or hard stop. Such a hard stop can prevent rotational displacement beyond the collapsed orientation. In certain instances, a soft stop can restrain the counterclockwise rotation of the hub 134 as the arm 104 moves toward the extended orientation. Such a soft stop can act as a brake when unfolding the base assembly 102, for example. Additionally or alternatively, the joint body 130 can engage additional and/or different biasing elements that are configured to bias the joint body 130 toward at least one predefined orientation. For example, at least one torsion spring supported in the support base 120 can bias the joint body 130 toward the orientation corresponding to the extended orientation of the arm 104 or toward the orientation corresponding to the collapsed orientation of the arm 104.
As described herein, the device 100 includes the spring members 160, which provide flexibility to the base assembly 102. The spring members 160 permit the base assembly to generate a bouncing or oscillating motion when the arms 104 are held in a fixed rotational position relative to the support base 120. In particular, when the seat assembly 140 is mounted to the arms 104, the springs 160 can be deflected or otherwise deformed such that the ends 114 of the arms 104 pivot toward the support base 120. The spring members 160 are configured to spring back generating an oscillatory movement of the seat assembly 140. The oscillations can taper in amplitude as the spring member 160 reaches equilibrium. The oscillations of the seat assembly 140 may also be prematurely terminated by an external force. In other instances, the device 100 may not be configured for oscillatory or bouncing motion. For example, the seat assembly 140 can be held fixed, or substantially fixed, by the collapsible base assembly 102. In such instances, the arms 140 may not include the spring members 160.
In certain instances, it is desirable to transfer vibrations to the seat assembly 140. Vibration of the seat assembly 140 can be implemented concurrently with the oscillatory or bouncing motion described herein. Vibrations may also be employed when the seat assembly 140 is held stationary relative to the base assembly 102. For example, in embodiments excluding the spring members 160 in the base assembly 102, the seat assembly 140 can be configured to vibrate.
A vibration-generating assembly 146 is depicted in FIGS. 41-43. The vibration-generating assembly 146 includes an enclosure 182 housing a plurality of electronics. The enclosure 182 is top-mounted to the seat ring 142. A removable lid or cover 184 (FIG. 41) provides access to the interior of the enclosure 182. In particular, the removable lid 184 provides access to a battery cavity 183, in which batteries for powering the vibration-generating assembly 140 can be held. Referring to FIG. 42, the upper portion of the enclosure 182 has been removed to expose the battery cavity 183. In various instances, the gasket around the battery cavity 183 and/or the battery terminals depicted in FIG. 42 can be housed within and/or attached to the upper portion of the enclosure 182. The cover 184 is positioned on the top of the enclosure 182, which facilitates access to the battery cavity 183 when the device 100 is in an upright position on a support surface (e.g. when the feet 117 are positioned on the support surface). Moreover, the lid 184 is mounted to the enclosure 182. For example, the lid 184 can snap-fit into engagement with the enclosure 182. In certain instances, for safety and/or compliance purposes, the lid 184 can require a generic tool, such as a coin, paper clip, letter opener, knife, screw driver, and/or pen, for example, to snap off the lid 184 from the enclosure 182. In other embodiments, the lid 184 can be fastened to the enclosure 182 with threaded fasteners and/or a rotational and/or sliding mechanism, for example.
The foregoing features promote convenient maintenance of the device 100 when installing or removing batteries in the battery cavity 183. The reader will appreciate that batteries positioned in the battery cavity 183 and/or batteries positioned elsewhere in the device 100, such as in the base assembly 102, for example, can provide power to the device 100. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 41 and 42, the battery cavity 183 is configured to receive three AA batteries. In other embodiments, the vibration-generating assembly 146 can be configured to receive less than three batteries, more than three batteries, and/or different types of batteries. In certain instances, the batteries for the device 100 can be rechargeable. For example, the batteries can be removed for recharging and then can be reinstalled in the battery cavity 183. In other instances, the batteries can be permanently installed in the enclosure 182 and/or elsewhere in the device 100. Such batteries can be rechargeable by a power cord, which can be coupled to an external power source. In embodiments including rechargeable batteries, a battery status indicator icon can be provided on the vibration-generating assembly 146 and/or elsewhere on the device 100. Additionally or alternatively, an external power source can provide power to the device 100. For example, the device 100 can be plugged into an external power source, such as an electrical socket, for example. In such instances, the device 100 may not include internal batteries for powering the device 100 and/or the vibration-generating assembly 146 thereof.
The vibration-generating assembly 146 also includes a control panel or user interface 186. The control panel 186 includes a power button 188 and adjustment buttons 189 and 190. The adjustment button 189 is configured to adjust the vibrational mode, and the adjustment button 190 is configured to adjust the vibrational intensity. The vibrational modes can include a steady or constant vibrational mode and at least one rhythmic vibrational mode. For example, the vibrational modes can include a wave mode and a heartbeat mode. The vibrational intensities can include a plurality of intensities, such as high, medium, and low, for example. Each of the vibrational intensities can be used with each of the vibrational modes. For example, in instances where the system is configured to operate in three vibrational modes (e.g. steady, wave, and heartbeat) and three vibrational intensities (e.g. high, medium, and low), nine different combinations are possible.
At least one button 188, 189, 190 on the control panel 186 can comprise a mechanical actuator. For example, at least one button 188, 189, 190 can comprise a mechanical button. In certain embodiments, at least one button 188, 189, 190 on the control panel 186 can comprise an electrical input button, such as a touch pad, for example. In various instances, at least one button 188, 189, 190 on the control panel 186 can be replaced with a knob, dial, or switch, for example. Additionally or alternatively, the operation of the power button 188 can be incorporated into the operation of at least one of the adjustment buttons 189, 190. In certain instances, the control panel 186 can include additional adjustment buttons 189, 190 and/or at least one of the adjustment buttons 189, 190 can be removed or disabled.
The vibrational mode and the vibrational intensity can be communicated to a user via the control panel 186. For example, the control panel 186 includes a plurality of displays or indicators 191a, 191b, 191c, 191d, 191e, 191f. Referring to FIG. 41, the indicator 191a is a bee icon, which corresponds to the steady or constant vibrational mode, the indicator 191b is a wave icon, which corresponds to a vibrational mode that oscillates between a higher intensity and a lower intensity, the indicator 191c is a heart icon, which corresponds to the heartbeat vibrational mode, and the indicators 191d, 191e, and 191f correspond to the different vibrational intensities (high, medium, and low, respectively). The indicators 191a, 191b, 191c, 191d, 191e, 191f are illuminated with lights 192 (FIG. 42), which can be LEDs, for example. The firmware version of a controller for the assembly 146 can also be communicated to a user via the control panel 186. Such a feature may facilitate troubleshooting, customer support, and/or building and/or testing the device 100 and/or the vibration-generating assembly 146 thereof.
Referring primarily now to FIG. 43, the vibration-generating assembly 146 also includes a circuit board 194, which is coupled to a power source, such as at least one battery positioned in the battery cavity 183. The circuit board 194 is also coupled to the power button 188, the adjustment buttons 189 and 190, and the lights 192, which are also coupled to the power source. The circuit board 194 can include a controller, which implements various control sequences further described herein. The assembly 146 also includes a motor 196, which is powered by the power source. An eccentric or asymmetrical mass 198 is mounted to an output shaft of the motor 196 such that rotation of the motor 196 output shaft affects rotation of the asymmetrical mass 198.
Actuation of the motor 196 and the corresponding rotation of the asymmetrical mass 198 is configured to generate vibrations, which are then transmitted to the seat ring 142 via the enclosure 182 (see FIG. 16). For example, the enclosure 182 is held against the seat ring 142 by a plurality of fasteners. Additionally, the motor 196 can be held against a portion of the enclosure 182 such that the vibrations generated by the rotating asymmetrical mass 198 are transmitted to the enclosure 182 and, consequently, to the seat ring 142. Vibration of the seat ring 142 affects vibrations of the infant-supporting sling 144 (FIG. 16) supported by the seat ring 142 such that an infant positioned in the sling 144 may be stimulated by the vibrating seat assembly 140.
Referring again to FIG. 43, in the depicted embodiment, a piece of foam 199 is positioned between the motor 196 and a portion of the enclosure 182. The foam 199 is configured to bias the motor 196 against the opposing side of the enclosure 182. Referring primarily to FIG. 43, the foam 199 is positioned on the underside of the motor 196, i.e., between the motor and a lower portion of the enclosure 182. Additionally, the enclosure 182 is top-mounted to the seat ring 142, as further discussed above. In other words, the foam 199 biases the motor 199 against the portion of the enclosure 182 that is connected to the seat ring 142, which can be configured to optimize the transfer of vibrations to the seat ring 142. In various instances, the foam 199 can also hold the motor 196 snugly in place in the enclosure 182 to prevent rattling and/or other undesirable noise generation during operation.
An electrical diagram of a control system 200 for the vibration-generating assembly 146 is shown in FIG. 52. A power supply 283 of the control system 200 supplies power to the electronics in the system 146, including a controller 293, a user interface 285, and a motor driver 295, for example. Control logic or sequences can be implemented by the controller 293, which communicates with the user interface 285 and the motor driver 295 to drive the motor 297 and generate the vibrations as described above. When the power supply 283 is powering the system 200, the controller 293 is configured to receive inputs from the user interface 285 and send communication signals to the user interface 285. Moreover, the controller 293 can control the motor driver 295 to implement various operational modes. In various instances, the power supply 283 corresponds to at least one battery positioned in the battery cavity 183 (FIGS. 42 and 43) or other source of power, the user interface 285 corresponds to the control panel 186 (FIGS. 41 and 42), and the motor 297 corresponds to the motor 196 (FIGS. 42 and 43). In other instances, the power supply 283 can be external to the device 100.
Various control sequences for implementation by a controller, such as the controller 293 (FIG. 52), for example, are depicted in FIGS. 44-51. A control sequence initiated upon actuation of a power button, such as the power button 188 (FIGS. 41 and 42), for example, is shown in FIG. 44. As further described below, the power button 188 is linked to an interrupt function and the controller 293 automatically powers down the control system 200 (FIG. 52) if the power supply is determined to be insufficient.
Referring primarily to FIG. 44, when the power button 188 (FIGS. 41 and 42) is actuated at step 202, the controller 293 (FIG. 52) determines whether the control system 200 (FIG. 52) is powered on at step 204. If the controller 293 determines that the system 200 is on, the controller 293 powers the system 200 down at step 204a; however, if the controller 293 determines that the system 200 is off, the controller 293 proceeds to step 206, in which the controller 293 determines the voltage of a battery or batteries, such as batteries 283 (FIG. 52) in the battery cavity 183 (FIGS. 42 and 43), for example. Thereafter, at step 208, if the controller 293 determines that the battery voltage is less than a threshold voltage that corresponds to a “dead” or drained battery, the system 200 is powered down by the controller 293 at step 208a. However, if the controller 293 determines that the battery voltage is greater than the threshold “dead” voltage at step 208, the controller 293 proceeds to step 210. At step 210, the controller 293 determines if a “dead” or drained battery was previously detected and, if so, the controller 293 powers down the system 200 at step 210a. If the system 200 is powered down at step 210a, the system 200 will not turn on again until a battery voltage above a predefined threshold level is detected. Such a feature can improve a user's interaction with the system 200 by preventing short cycles. If a “dead” battery was not previously detected, the controller 293 proceeds to step 212, in which normal operation of the system 200 is resumed (see FIG. 45).
Referring now to FIG. 45, the main loop of the control system 200 (FIG. 52) under normal operation is shown. As further described herein, the controller 293 (FIG. 52) is configured to automatically power down the control system 200 when a “dead” battery is detected and after the system 200 has been operated for a predefined period of time. At step 214, the controller 293 powers the system 200 on and the controller 293 is reset by the actuation of the power button 188 (FIGS. 41 and 42), as further described herein. If an adjustment button, such as the vibrational mode adjustment button 189 (FIGS. 41 and 42) or the vibrational intensity adjustment button 190 (FIGS. 41 and 42), for example, is actuated at step 216, the controller 293 adjusts the vibrational effect generated by the system 200 at step 218, as further described herein.
At step 220, pulse width modulation or pulse frequency modulation is utilized to control the indicator light(s) 192 (FIG. 42), which are configured to communicate operational states to the display panel 186 (FIG. 41) of the vibration-generating assembly 146. For example, by adjusting the length of pulses and/or the frequency of pulses supplied to the light(s), the controller 293 can control the intensity of the light(s) 192. The period of a pulse width modulation circuit corresponds to the total amount of time the light(s) 192 are turned on at full power and then turned off before turning the light(s) 192 on again. By adjusting the period, the controller 293 can control the flickering of the light(s) 192. In certain instances, the controller 293 can optimize the period to ensure that flickering of the light(s) is not visible or perceptible to the human eye. The duty cycle of a pulse width modulation circuit corresponds to the ratio between the amount of time the light(s) 192 are pulsed on during a period and the total period. By adjusting the duty cycle, the light(s) 192 can be dimmed and/or brightened. For example, by increasing the duty cycle, the light(s) 192 will appear to be brighter and, by decreasing the duty cycle, the light(s) 192 will appear to be dimmer. In certain instances, the controller 293 can optimize the duty cycle based on the battery voltage. As a result, though the voltage supply decreases over the lifetime of the battery or batteries, the intensity of the light(s) 192 can appear to remain constant. Additionally, utilizing pulse width modulation to control the light(s) 192 can draw less power, which extends the life of the battery or batteries.
Thereafter, at step 222, the controller 293 determines the voltage of a battery or batteries, such as batteries 283 (FIG. 52), for example, and the controller 293 then proceeds to step 224. If the controller 293 determines that the battery voltage is less than a threshold voltage that corresponds to a “dead” or drained battery, the system 200 is powered down at step 224a. However, if the controller 293 determines that the battery voltage is greater than the threshold voltage at step 224, the controller 293 proceeds to step 226, in which the controller 293 adjusts the motor intensity to compensate for the detected battery voltage. For example, dynamic pulse width modulation or dynamic pulse frequency modulation can be employed to compensate for the change in voltage. In such instances, as the battery voltage decreases over the lifetime of the battery, the duration or frequency of pulses can be increased to maintain the desired vibrational effect. As a result, the vibrational intensity can be maintained at the desired level (e.g. high, medium, or low) regardless of the age of the battery or batteries, and thus regardless of the voltage thereof, until the threshold “dead” voltage is detected by the controller 293.
The main loop may also include step 228, in which the controller 293 determines if the system 200 as been operating for longer than a threshold period of time, such as longer than 20 minutes, for example. If so, the controller 293 is configured to power down the system 200 at step 228a, as further described herein (see FIG. 48). The controller 293 may also be configured to update the motor intensity according to the vibrational settings at step 230, and the controller 293 can repeat the process of updating the vibrational setting in response to user input and updating the motor control based on the battery voltage until the battery reaches the threshold “dead” voltage or until the system 200 has been operating for longer than the threshold period of time. The reader will appreciate that the threshold period of time can be greater than 20 minutes or less than 20 minutes in alternative embodiments.
Actuation of an adjustment button, such as the vibrational mode adjustment button 189 (FIGS. 41 and 42) or the vibrational intensity adjustment button 190 (FIGS. 41 and 42), for example, is shown in FIGS. 46 and 47. The adjustment buttons can be polled, as further described herein. Referring primarily to FIG. 46, after the vibrational intensity adjustment button 190 is actuated at step 232, the controller 293 determines the vibrational intensity of the system 200 at step 234. If the controller 293 determines that the vibrational intensity is not medium, the vibrational intensity is changed to medium at step 236 and the controller 293 proceeds to step 236a, in which normal operation of the system 200 is resumed (see FIG. 45). If the controller 293 determines that the vibrational intensity is medium, the controller 293 determines the previous vibrational intensity of the system 200 at step 236. If the previous vibrational intensity was high, the controller 293 proceeds to step 240, in which the vibrational intensity is changed to low and normal operation is resumed at step 240a (see FIG. 45). If the previous vibrational intensity was low, the controller 293 proceeds to step 242, in which the vibrational intensity is changed to high and normal operation is resumed at step 242a (see FIG. 45). The reader will appreciate that the system 200 can be configured to operate at less than three vibrational intensities or more than three vibrational intensities in alternative embodiments. Additionally or alternatively, in other embodiments, the vibrational intensity adjustment button 190 may not be polled.
Referring primarily now to FIG. 47, after the vibrational mode adjustment button 189 is actuated at step 244, the controller 293 determines the vibrational mode of the system 200 at step 246. If the controller 293 determines that the vibrational mode is not a wave, the vibrational mode is changed to a wave at step 248 and the controller 293 proceeds to step 248a, in which normal operation of the system 200 is resumed (see FIG. 45). If the controller 293 determines that the vibrational mode is a wave, the controller 293 determines the previous vibrational mode of the system 200 at step 250. If the previous vibrational mode was a heartbeat mode, the controller 293 proceeds to step 254, in which the vibrational mode is changed to a constant vibrational mode and normal operation is resumed at step 254a (see FIG. 45). If the previous vibrational mode was a constant mode, the controller 293 proceeds to step 252, in which the vibrational mode is changed to the heartbeat mode and normal operation is resumed at step 252a (see FIG. 45). The reader will appreciate that the system 200 can be configured to operate in less than three vibrational modes or more than three vibrational modes in alternative embodiments. Additionally or alternatively, in other embodiments, the vibrational mode adjustment button 189 may not be polled.
Referring now to FIG. 48, the controller 293 is configured to automatically power down the system 200 under certain conditions. For example, if the controller 293 determines that the system 200 has been operating for longer than a threshold period of time at step 256, such as longer than 20 minutes, for example, or if the battery voltage is determined to be less than a threshold voltage at step 258, the controller 293 is configured to automatically power down the system 200. The automatic power-down can occur differently depending on the vibrational mode in which the system 200 is operating. For example, if the controller 293 determines that the system 200 is operating in the heartbeat mode at step 260, the controller 293 is configured to continue the operation of the system 200 for the duration of the current heartbeat at step 262, and then power down the system 200 after the heartbeat vibration is complete at step 266. Alternatively, if the controller 293 determines that the system 200 is not operating in the heartbeat mode at step 260, e.g., is operating in the constant or wave mode, the controller 293 is configured to gradually or incrementally reduce the intensity of the vibrations at step 264, and then power down the system 200 at step 266. The foregoing power-down embodiments can provide a smooth transition to an infant supported by the device 100 (FIG. 16) to prevent startling or upsetting the infant.
As further described herein, the controller 293 can be reset. In certain instances, a system test or an endurance test may also be executed. Referring now to FIG. 49, at step 270 the controller 293 can be reset. When a first adjustment button is held down for a predetermined period of time, such as 3 seconds, for example, at step 272, the endurance test is initiated at step 274 (see FIG. 50). In various instances, the first adjustment button can correspond to the vibrational mode adjustment button 189 (FIGS. 41 and 42) on the right side of the control panel 186. When a second adjustment button is depressed or otherwise actuated for a predetermined period of time, such as 3 seconds, for example, at step 272, the system test can be initiated at step 276 (see FIG. 51). In various instances, the second adjustment button can correspond to the vibrational intensity adjustment button 190 (FIGS. 41 and 42) on the left side of the control panel 186. If neither of the adjustment buttons 189, 190 are actuated during the reset function, the controller 293 is configured to power down the system 200 at step 278.
The controller 293 is configured to implement at least one test mode for the device 100 and control system 200 thereof. Referring now to FIG. 50, an exemplary endurance test is depicted. When the endurance test is initiated, such as by holding the vibrational mode adjustment button 189 (FIGS. 41 and 42) for 3 seconds on a reset at step 272a, at least one indicator feature is configured to indicate that the endurance test is underway at step 280. In certain instances, a first group of indicator lights, such as the indicators 191a, 191b, and 191c, for example, can be illuminated at step 280, for example. During the endurance test, the motor 196 (FIGS. 42 and 43) is configured to operate at a constant, high intensity for a predefined period of time, such as 105 minutes, for example, at step 282. Thereafter, the controller 293 is configured to turn off the motor 196 for a predefined period of time, such as 15 minutes, for example, at step 284. Steps 282 and 284 can be repeated until the power source, such as the batteries 283 (FIG. 52), for example, is drained.
An exemplary system test is depicted in FIG. 51. The system test is configured to test the electrical components (e.g. motor(s), button(s), LED(s), and/or transistor(s)) of the device 100 and control system 200 thereof. When the system test is initiated, such as by depressing or otherwise actuating the vibrational intensity adjustment button 190 (FIGS. 41 and 42) for 3 seconds on a reset at step 272b, at least one indicator feature is configured to indicate that the system test is underway at step 286. In certain instances, the indicators 191a, 191b, 191c, 191d, 191e, and 191f can display a first pattern at step 286, for example. During the system test, the controller 293 may be configured to actuate the motor 196 (FIGS. 42 and 43) at a constant, high intensity until the controller 293 receives another input via the control panel 186 (FIGS. 41 and 42).
For example, at step 288, the vibrational intensity mode button 190 can be actuated, which can cause the controller 293 to adjust the indicator lights and the motor intensity. In certain instances, the indicators 191a, 191b, 191c, 191d, 191e, and 191f are configured to display a second pattern and the controller 293 switches the motor 196 to a lower intensity at step 288. Step 288 continues until the controller 293 receives another input via the control panel 186. For example, at step 292, the power button 188 can be actuated, which can cause the controller 293 to adjust the indicator light feature and the motor intensity. In certain instances, the indicators 191a, 191b, 191c, 191d, 191e, and 191f can display a third pattern and the motor 196 can be switched to a higher intensity at step 294. Step 294 can continue until the controller 293 receives another input via the control panel 186. For example, at step 296, the vibrational mode adjustment button 189 can be actuated, which can cause the controller 293 to turn off the motor 196 at step 298 and then display a fourth pattern with the indicators 191a, 191b, 191c, 191d, 191e, and 191f indicating that the system test is complete.
In various instances, the device 100 (FIG. 16) can include a 3-axis accelerometer, which can be in communication with the controller 293 (FIG. 51). In certain instances, the accelerometer can be positioned within the enclosure 182 of the vibration-generating assembly 146, for example. The accelerometer can be used to determine if a child is positioned in the infant-supporting sling 144 (FIG. 17) of the device 100. For example, the angle of the seat frame 142, and thus of the vibration-generating assembly 146 mounted thereto, can change when a child is positioned within the sling 144. Additionally, the angle of the seat frame 142 and the vibration-generating assembly 146 can depend on the size and weight of the child. If the controller 293 determines that a child is not present in the sling 144 based on signals from the accelerometer, the controller 293 can turn off the motor 196 (FIGS. 42 and 43) to conserve power (e.g. to preserve battery life). Additionally or alternative, the controller 293 can be configured to automatically turn on the motor 196 when a child is detected in the sling 144 by the accelerometer.
The accelerometer can detect the bouncing or oscillating motion of the device 100. The data collected by the accelerometer can be processed by the controller 293. In certain instances, the data can be recorded and stored to identify patterns of use. Signals from the accelerometer can allow the controller 293 to learn the behavior of a child that is placed in the device 100. For example, based on the signal from the accelerometer, the controller 293 can determine whether the child has fallen asleep, woken up, become agitated, and/or calmed down, for example, by monitoring changes to the motion over time. If the controller 293 determines that the child has fallen asleep, the controller 293 can automatically turn off or reduce a vibrational effect, for example, and if the controller 293 determines that a child has woken up, the controller 293 can automatically turn on or increase a vibrational effect, for example.
Additionally, the controller 293 can be configured to provide feedback to the parent and/or child based on the motions detected by the accelerometer. This feedback may be audible, visual, or tactile, and can include vibrations, lights, and/or audio. For example, an LED may be modulated to provide a pulsing effect that corresponds to the detected oscillatory motion of the device 100. Additionally or alternatively, an acoustic signal can be manipulated to correspond to the detected oscillatory motion. For example, the pitch and/or volume could be modulated or otherwise manipulated. In certain instances, the controller 293 can intensify at least one form of feedback when the accelerometer detects additional bounce or movement and/or can reduce at least one of feedback when the accelerometer detects reduced bounce or movement. Such features can encourage bouncing and play under certain circumstances, calm or sooth an infant under other circumstances, and conserve the battery life, for example.
The device 100 can also include a wireless communication transceiver, such as a BLUETOOTH® transceiver, a Wi-Fi transceiver, or any other suitable wireless communication transceiver, for example. Such a transceiver can be positioned within the enclosure 182, for example. In other instances, the transceiver can be mounted to the base assembly 102. Such a transceiver can be in operative communication with the controller 293 or another controller of the device 100. The following commonly-owned United States patent documents are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their respective entireties:
- U.S. Patent Application No. 61/954,332, entitled WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR JUVENILE PRODUCTS, filed Mar. 17, 2014;
- U.S. Patent Application No. 62/045,859, entitled WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR JUVENILE PRODUCTS, filed Sep. 4, 2014;
- U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/660,503, entitled WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR JUVENILE PRODUCTS, filed Mar. 17, 2015; and
- U.S. Patent Application No. 62/148,563, entitled METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS AND CONTROL OF JUVENILE PRODUCTS, filed Apr. 16, 2015.
The reader will appreciate that a wireless communication transceiver can allow a parent to remotely monitor or control a child's motion in the device 100 from another device, such as a smartphone, tablet computer, personal computer, or any other suitable device. It can also allow for remote control of the vibrational effects from the other device and remote control of various forms of feedback from another device. Audio output may be built into the device 100 (e.g. in the enclosure 182) or could be streamed from a remote device. Additionally, a wireless communication transceiver can allow user data to be collected and transmitted to the manufacturer of the bouncer seat for evaluation and future improvements. In certain instances, the device 100 can include a camera, which can monitor a child positioned in the seat assembly 140 to learn about child behavior. Such a camera can be remotely controlled with a wireless communication transceiver, as further described herein.
EXAMPLES
Example 1
An infant-supporting device, comprising a seat assembly and a support assembly. The support assembly comprises a base, at least one arm movable between an extended orientation and a collapsed orientation relative to the base, and a spring. The at least one arm comprises a first arm end rotatably coupled to the base at a joint. The at least one arm further comprises a second arm end, wherein the seat assembly is releasably mountable to the second arm end, and wherein the second arm end is configured to rotate inward and downward toward the base when the at least one arm moves toward the collapsed orientation. The spring comprises a first spring end mounted to the base and a second spring end mounted to the at least one arm, wherein the spring is configured to facilitate oscillation of the seat assembly relative to the base when the seat assembly is mounted to the second arm end.
Example 2
The infant-supporting device of Example 1, wherein the spring extends through the joint.
Example 3
The infant-supporting device of Examples 1 or 2, wherein the seat assembly comprises a seat frame and an infant-supporting sling releasably attached to the seat frame.
Example 4
The infant-supporting device of Example 3, wherein the seat assembly further comprises a vibration-generating system secured to the seat frame.
Example 5
The infant-supporting device of Examples 1, 2, 3, or 4, wherein the base further comprises a rotational stop, and wherein the at least one arm further comprises a stop surface configured to abut the rotational stop when the at least one arm is in the extended orientation.
Example 6
The infant-supporting device of Examples 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, wherein the at least one arm further comprises a camming surface configured to bias the at least one arm toward the extended orientation.
Example 7
The infant-supporting device of Examples 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, wherein the base further comprises a spring-loaded detent, and wherein the at least one arm further comprises a groove configured to engage the spring-loaded detent when the at least one arm is in the extended orientation.
Example 8
An infant-supporting device, comprising a seat assembly and a support assembly. The support assembly comprises a base, wherein a centerline is defined through the base. The support assembly also comprises an arm comprising a first end portion rotatably coupled to the base at a joint. The arm also comprises a second end portion, wherein the seat assembly is mountable to the second end portion, wherein the arm is configured to rotate between a first orientation and a second orientation relative to the base, and wherein the second end portion is configured to rotate toward the centerline as the arm rotates between the first orientation and the second orientation.
Example 9
The infant-supporting device of Example 8, further comprising a spring mounted to the base and the arm, wherein the second end portion of the arm is deflectable relative to the base.
Example 10
The infant-supporting device of Example 9, wherein the spring is enclosed in the support assembly.
Example 11
The infant-supporting device of Examples 9 or 10, wherein the second end portion comprises a joint body supported for rotation relative to the base, and wherein the spring extends through the joint body.
Example 12
The infant-supporting device of Examples 8, 9, 10, or 11, further comprising a second arm. The second arm comprising a first end portion rotatably coupled to the base at a second joint and a second end portion, wherein the seat assembly is mountable to the second end portion, wherein the second arm is configured to rotate between a first orientation and a second orientation relative to the base, and wherein the second end portion is configured to rotate toward the centerline as the second arm rotates between the first orientation and the second orientation.
Example 13
The infant-supporting device of Examples 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12, wherein the seat assembly further comprises a quick-release button configured to release the seat assembly from the second end portion.
Example 14
The infant-supporting device of Examples 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, or 13, wherein the seat assembly further comprises a vibration-generating system.
Example 15
An infant-supporting device, comprising a seat assembly and a collapsible support assembly. The collapsible support assembly comprising a base, a pivot joint coupled to the base, and a spring member extending through the pivot joint, wherein the spring member comprises a first end portion secured to the base and a second end portion configured to deflect relative to the first end portion.
Example 16
The infant-supporting device of Example 15, wherein the spring member is enclosed in the collapsible support assembly.
Example 17
The infant-supporting device of Examples 15 or 16, wherein the collapsible support assembly further comprises an arm, and wherein the second end portion is secured to the arm.
Example 18
The infant-supporting device of Example 17, further comprising a locking mechanism configured to hold the arm in an extended position relative to the base when the locking mechanism is engaged.
Example 19
The infant-supporting device of Example 18, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a spring-loaded detent, and wherein the arm further comprises a groove configured to engage the spring-loaded detent when the arm is in the extended position.
Example 20
The infant-supporting device of Example 19, wherein the spring-loaded detent further comprises a camming surface configured to bias the arm toward the extended position.
Example 21
An infant-supporting device, comprising a seat frame and a support assembly. The support assembly comprising a base, an arm movably coupled to the base, and a spring member enclosed within the support assembly, wherein the spring member comprises a first end portion secured to the base and a second end portion secured to the arm.
Example 22
The infant-supporting device of Example 21, wherein the seat frame is releasably mountable to the arm.
Example 23
The infant-supporting device of Example 22, wherein the seat frame further comprises a quick-release button configured to release the seat frame from the arm.
Example 24
The infant-supporting device of Examples 21, 22, or 23, wherein the arm comprises a first arm, and wherein the support assembly further comprises a second arm movably coupled to the base and a second spring member enclosed within the support assembly. The second spring member comprises a first end portion secured to the base and a second end portion secured to the second arm.
Example 25
The infant-supporting device of Example 24, wherein the seat frame is releasably mountable to the second arm.
Example 26
The infant-supporting device of Example 25, wherein the first arm and the second arm are rotatably coupled to the base, and wherein rotation of the first arm and the second arm relative to the base is restrained when the seat frame is mounted to the first arm and the second arm.
Example 27
The infant-supporting device of Examples 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, or 26, further comprising a vibration-generating system fastened to the seat frame.
Example 28
The infant-supporting device of Examples 21, 22, or 23, wherein the arm further comprises a joint body rotatably supported by the base, and wherein the spring member extends through the joint body.
Example 29
The infant-supporting device of Example 28, wherein the arm is configured to rotate between a first orientation and a second orientation relative to the base, wherein the base further comprises a rotational stop, and wherein the joint body further comprises a stop surface configured to abut the rotational stop when the arm is in the first orientation.
Example 30
The infant-supporting device of Example 29, wherein the joint body further comprises a camming surface configured to bias the arm toward the first orientation.
Example 31
The infant-supporting device of Examples 29 or 30, wherein the base further comprises a spring-loaded detent, and wherein the joint body further comprises a groove configured to engage the spring-loaded detent when the arm is in the first orientation.
Example 32
An infant-supporting device, comprising an infant seat assembly and a collapsible support assembly. The infant seat assembly comprises a mount. The collapsible support assembly comprises a base and an arm comprising a first end portion movably coupled to the base and a second end portion, wherein the mount is dimensioned to receive the second end portion. The collapsible support assembly further comprises a latching mechanism configured to releasably couple the second end portion to the mount.
Example 33
The infant-supporting device of Example 32, wherein the latching mechanism comprises a first spring-biased button on the mount and a second spring-biased button on the second end portion.
Example 34
The infant-supporting device of Example 33, wherein the first spring-biased button is movable between an unactuated position and an actuated position, and wherein the first spring-biased button is configured to engage the second spring-biased button when moved to the actuated position.
Example 35
The infant-supporting device of Examples 32, 33, or 34, wherein the collapsible support assembly further comprises a spring member enclosed within the base and the arm.
Example 36
The infant-supporting device of Examples 32, 33, 34, or 35, wherein the infant seat assembly further comprises a second mount, and wherein the collapsible support assembly further comprises a second arm. The second arm comprises a first end portion movably coupled to the base and a second end portion, wherein the second mount is dimensioned to receive the second end portion.
Although the various embodiments of the devices have been described herein in connection with certain disclosed embodiments, many modifications and variations to those embodiments may be implemented. Also, where materials are disclosed for certain components, other materials may be used. Furthermore, according to various embodiments, a single component may be replaced by multiple components, and multiple components may be replaced by a single component, to perform a given function or functions. The foregoing description and following claims are intended to cover all such modification and variations.
While this invention has been described as having exemplary designs, the present invention may be further modified within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its general principles.
Any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in whole or in part, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein is incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated materials does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.
Patent Application
20160058201
