Baby bouncer actuator and related systems

Abstract

The invention provides a novel microprocessor-controlled actuator which bounces a baby bouncer system at soothing frequencies that are optimized for the weight of a baby supported in the baby bouncer system bed. The invention also provides a novel baby bouncer system which includes the novel microprocessor-controlled actuator. In one embodiment, the microprocessor based control system which controls the bouncing motion of the actuator also emits soothing sounds.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The invention provides a novel microprocessor-controlled actuator which bounces a baby bouncer system at soothing frequencies that are optimized for the weight of a baby supported in the baby bouncer system bed. The invention also provides a novel baby bouncer system which includes the novel microprocessor-controlled actuator. [0002] In one embodiment, the microprocessor based control system which controls the bouncing motion of the actuator also emits soothing sounds. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] A baby bouncer system comprises a cradle-like seat that supports and rocks a baby in a seated or prone position and a resilient metal frame that includes a base adaptable for support by a relatively uniform surface and an angled segment which extends upwardly to support the seat. The angled segment may be bent downwardly toward the base portion of the frame to provide a gentle rocking movement. The general configuration and design of baby bouncer frames ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0010] A microprocessor-controlled actuator of the invention comprises: (a) a housing adapted to engage and bounce a baby bouncer system; (b) a motion sensor which can generate signals corresponding to baby bouncer system forces and which is enclosed within and supported by the housing; (c) a microprocessor based control system which can detect and store the motion sensor signals and which is enclosed within and supported by the housing; (d) a DC electric motor which (i) is connectable to a power source, (ii) is in electrical communication with the microprocessor based control system, (iii) during operation receives a supply voltage at a level which is regulated by the microprocessor based control system, and (iv) is enclosed within and supported by the housing; (e) a speed reduction mechanism which comprises an axial shaft connected for rotation to and driven by the DC electric motor and which is enclosed within and supported by the housing; (f) a rotatable eccentric weight which is mounted coaxially on the speed reduction mechanism axial shaft for rotational motion to generate centrifugal force and which is enclosed within and supported by the housing; wherein the microprocessor based control system is calibrated to maintain the DC electric motor supply voltage level at a value which is optimized to maintain baby bouncer system bouncing at a soothing frequency, e.g., about 1 to 2 Hz.

[0011] The speed reduction ratio of the speed reduction mechanism is preferably set such that the rotational speed of the ac

Problems solved by technology

Currently available fixed speed actuators (e.g., motorized swing actuators) have not been employed effectively with baby bouncers to either affect a natural bouncing motion or achieve optimum bouncer frequencies.

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