Multifunction Infant Bed

Abstract

A bed configured to contain a subject, such as a human infant is disclosed. The bed includes a womb-shaped bumper capable of constricting or squeezing the subject. The bumper is adjustable between a constricting configuration and a non-constricting configuration. An adjustment mechanism, and optionally, a fastener may be used to maintain the bumper in the constricting configuration.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims priority to Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 557,757, filed on Nov. 9, 2011.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention generally relates to a multifunctional infant bed.[0004]2. Description of the Related Art[0005]An infant's proximity to a parent is crucial for the infant's mental, emotional, and psychological development. Being nestled in the arms, against the chest, and near the parent's face gives the infant a soothing environment. But when parents are not available, the second best option is to create an environment which resembles the womb. The current devices that hold infants have various drawbacks. For example, a parent may lay an infant on a blanket; however, the blanket space may be too open, hard, and uncomfortable for the infant. A cot may prevent an infant from visual exploration. Additionally, cots or cribs may not be snug enough for a newborn. An infant...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0011]According to various embodiments of the present invention, a novel multifunctional bed is disclosed. The multifunctional bed includes, e.g., a bumper and a bottom that may be permanently attached, or attachable and/or separable from one another. The bumper may have a shell that is filled with a filler material, for example, fiber, or foam. The bumper may be configured in an womb-like shape, such as an oval shape (including, e.g., rounded and elliptical shapes) and preferably runs along the perimeter of the multifunctional bed. The bumper may be raised from the bottom to form a recess where a subject, e.g., a human infant may be placed. The bumper further includes a fastener, e.g., a clasp, for connecting two ends of the bumper to form the bumper's oval shape. The bumper may also include one or more handles that allow a user to carry the multifunctional bed. The bottom may be rectangular in shape. Additionally, the bottom may be filled with filler material, such as fiber or foam. Alternatively, the bumper and bottom may be formed as a unitary structure. When the bumper is formed as a separate structure from the bottom, the b

Problems solved by technology

For example, a parent may lay an infant on a blanket; however, the blanket space may be too open, hard, and uncomfortable for the infant.

Additionally, cots or cribs may not be snug enough for a newborn.

An infant lounger would require buckling the infant in, thereby restricting his or her movement.

But many infants do not enjoy tummy time

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