Method for limiting the movement of an infant in a particular direction

Abstract

A method for limiting the movement of a toddler which comprises the placement of a barrier upon flooring. The barrier comprises a plurality of studs having upward extending sections. The barrier can be stepped over by adults while preventing further movement in that direction by the toddler.

Description

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION [0001] Infants are curious about their surroundings. From the time they are able to crawl, a baby will move, driven by curiosity from place to place. Infants will open drawers or grab items within their reach. Some items can be dangerous to the child; for example, sharp items such as kitchen knives or forks. Other items like glass or keepsakes can be broken or damaged if mishandled by the child. [0002] Existing in the prior art are a myriad of devices developed for an infant's protection around the home. Child-proof locks prevent a child from opening drawers and gaining access to the contents within. Infant play-pens limit movement; however, the problem with play-pens is that they typically provide a very short term remedy as the infant does not enjoy the confined space and voices his displeasure by crying. Also used are fences and gates to prevent an infant's movement from one room to another. [0003] Usually, these devices detract from a home's overall asthe...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The patent describes a method for creating a barrier to prevent infants and small toddlers from reaching undesired places or crossing over barriers. The barrier is designed to be low-profile, meaning it is difficult for infants to grapple or remove certain parts of the barrier. The barrier can be created by attaching a sheet of material with upward extending sections to the floor or to the surface of a cabinet or bookcase. The barrier is placed in a way that will cause temporary discomfort to the infant but will not cause injury. The method uses the infant's learning mechanism to condition them to not cross the barrier. The barrier can be created on the floor and is only required to be of a certain depth to prevent the infant from reaching undesired places."

Problems solved by technology

Some items can be dangerous to the child; for example, sharp items such as kitchen knives or forks.

Other items like glass or keepsakes can be broken or damaged if mishandled by the child.

Infant play-pens limit movement; however, the problem with play-pens is that they typically provide a very short term remedy as the infant does not enjoy the confined space and voices his displeasure by crying.

Usually, these devices detract from a home's overall asthetic design.

Further, they themselves typically become a nuisance to parents who are forced to open and close a gate when moving from room to room.

New parents are thus faced with the dilemma of either: a) limiting the child's movement to a very confined space like a play-pen and suffer through the child's crying; or, b) not using a play-pen and constantly having to watch the infant as it moves around the home.

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