Foldable baby cot

Abstract

A foldable baby crib is provided. The foldable baby crib comprises: a base member; a first frame member and a second frame member, wherein the first frame member and the second frame member together at least partially define a side wall or an end wall of the baby crib, and the first frame member and the second frame member are pivotally connected together so that the pivoting of the first frame member and the second frame member relative to each other changes the height of the side wall or the end wall of the baby crib, wherein the first frame member is pivotally movable relative to the base member, and the second frame member is pivotally and slidably movable relative to the base member; and a fixing mechanism, wherein the fixing mechanism releasably fixes the second frame member relative to the base member so that the sliding of the second frame member relative to the base member is restricted, thereby restricting the pivoting of the first frame member relative to the second frame member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a collapsible carry cot. Background Art

[0002] Strollers used to transport infants may often be fitted with a carrycot which provides a flat bed for the infant to lie on when transporting the infant in the stroller. Carrycots are particularly advantageous for transporting younger infants who are unable to sit safely and comfortably during travel in a stroller.

[0003] The carrycot can be detachable from the stroller chassis. For example, the carrycot can be detachable from the stroller chassis to facilitate transporting the stroller in a trunk of a vehicle, for example, or to facilitate storage of the carrycot and / or stroller when not in use.

[0004] In some travels in a stroller, and when the infant reaches a certain age, weight and / or height, it may be necessary to seat the infant in a more upright position. In such cases, the carrycot may be removed from the stroller chassis and replaced with a stroller seat that allows the infant to be placed in a more upright seating position.

[0005] When the carrycot is removed from the stroller and not in use, it is desirable that the carrycot be conveniently stored, such as in a trunk or other storage area of ​​a vehicle, until the carrycot is next used. Summary of the invention

[0006] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a foldable baby carrycot, comprising:

[0007] Base member;

[0008] a first frame member and a second frame member, wherein the first frame member and the second frame member together at least partially define a side wall and / or an end wall of the carrycot, and wherein the first frame member and the second frame member are pivotally coupled together such that pivoting of the first frame member and the second frame member relative to each other changes the height of the side wall and / or the end wall of the carrycot, for example the first frame member and the second frame member may be coupled together to form a scissor linkage,

[0009] wherein the first frame member, for example a first end of the first frame member, is pivotally movable relative to the base member, for example the first end of the first frame member may be pivotally coupled to the base member, and the second frame member, for example a first end of the second frame member, is pivotally and slidably movable relative to the base member, for example the first end of the second frame member may be supported relative to the base member so that the second frame member is pivotally and slidably movable relative to the base member at the first end; and

[0010] A fixing mechanism releasably fixes the second frame member relative to the base member so that sliding movement of the second frame member relative to the base member is restricted, thereby restricting pivoting of the first frame member relative to the second frame member.

[0011] The first frame member may be pivotable relative to the base member, such as pivotable about the first end of the first frame, about a first transverse axis of the carrycot. The second frame member may be pivotable relative to the base member, such as pivotable about the first end of the second frame member, about a second transverse axis of the carrycot. The second frame member may be slidable relative to the base member in a longitudinal direction of the carrycot.

[0012] The first and second transverse axes of the carrycot may be spaced apart from each other in a longitudinal direction of the carrycot. Sliding of the second frame member relative to the base member may adjust the spacing of the first and second transverse axes in the longitudinal direction of the carrycot.

[0013] The first frame member and the second frame member may be pivotally coupled together at a location between the first end and the second end of the first frame member and / or at a location between the first end and the second end of the second frame member.

[0014] The base member may define a bottom of a bed portion of the carrycot. The carrycot may also include an upper member. The upper member may at least partially define a top of the bed portion. Side walls and end walls of the carrycot may extend between the base member and the upper member. The side walls and end walls may be walls of the bed portion. An interior space of the bed portion may be defined by the base member, the upper member, and the side walls and end walls. The upper member may form an edge of an opening to an interior space within the bed portion of the carrycot, such that an infant may be placed into the crib through the opening.

[0015] The second frame member may be pivotally coupled to the upper member at the second end of the second frame member.The second end of the first frame member may be coupled to the upper member such that the second end of the first frame member is pivotally and slidably movable relative to the upper member.

[0016] The fixing mechanism may include: a main body portion which is slidable relative to the base member, for example, slidable in the longitudinal direction of the carrycot; and a fixing portion for fixing the position of the main body portion relative to the base member. The main body portion may be slidably coupled to the base member.

[0017] The fixing mechanism may be configured to allow the main body portion to slide relative to the base member together with the first end of the second frame member. The second frame member may be supported relative to the main body portion so that the sliding of the second frame member relative to the main body portion is restricted. Fixing the position of the main body portion relative to the base member may restrict the sliding of the first end of the second frame member relative to the base member.

[0018] The second frame member may be pivotally coupled to the body of the securing mechanism, such as at the first end of the second frame member.The second frame member may be pivotally coupled to the body of the securing mechanism and the base member about a common axis.

[0019] The securing portion may include an engagement element for selectively engaging the base member to secure the body of the securing mechanism relative to the base member.

[0020] The engagement element may be movable relative to the base member in a direction having a component in a transverse direction of the folding carrycot, for example to engage or disengage with the base member.

[0021] The base member may include an opening for receiving the engagement element at a position on the base member, wherein the opening is aligned with the engagement element, for example aligned in the longitudinal direction of the carrycot, when the height of the first frame member and the second frame member is set such that the height of a side wall or an end wall of the carrycot is at a predetermined height, for example a maximum desired height. The engagement element may be configured to engage the base member at the opening, for example to secure the body relative to the base member.

[0022] The fixing mechanism may include a switch actuable by a user and an engagement mechanism for moving the engagement element to disengage or engage with the base member when the switch is actuated. In this specification, the term "switch" is used to refer to any user-actuable element, such as a button, lever or handle, which can be pushed, pulled, twisted, rotated, slid or moved by the user in any other way to actuate the switch. The switch can be actuable in a first direction to disengage the engagement element from the base member, and can be actuated in a second direction (opposite to the first direction) to move the engagement element to engage with the base member.

[0023] The engagement mechanism may include a link member coupled to the engagement element. A cam surface may be formed on the link member. The switch may include a follower element engaged with the cam surface. When the switch is actuated, the cam surface and the follower element may together guide the movement of the link member to move the engagement element.

[0024] In particular, actuating the switch may cause the follower element to travel along the cam surface, and the follower element may bear against the cam surface under the force used to actuate the switch to move the link member, which in turn may move the engagement member.

[0025] The cam surface may be angled such that action of the follower element along the cam surface moves the linkage member in a direction that is at an angle (eg, at a right angle) relative to the direction in which the switch is actuated.

[0026] The switch may be actuatable in a longitudinal direction of the carrycot.When the switch is actuated, the engagement mechanism may move the engagement element in a transverse direction of the carrycot.

[0027] The engagement element may be biased to a position where the engagement element engages the base member. For example, a biasing element, such as an elastic element, such as a spring, may be provided as a part of the engagement mechanism, such as being arranged to act against a switch, a link member or an engagement element.

[0028] The fixing portion may further include another engagement element to selectively engage the base member of the carrycot so as to fix the body of the fixing mechanism relative to the base member. The another engagement element may be actuated independently of the engagement element to engage and disengage with the base member. For example, the fixing portion may further include another switch actuated by a user, and another engagement mechanism for moving the another engagement element to disengage and engage with the base member when the another switch is actuated by the user.

[0029] The engagement mechanism and the further engagement mechanism may be configured so that the switch and the further switch are actuatable in the same direction as each other so as to disengage the engagement element and the further engagement element, respectively, from the base member. The engagement mechanism and the further engagement mechanism may be configured so that the engagement element and the further engagement element move in different directions, such as in opposite directions to each other, to engage and disengage from the base member.

[0030] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a foldable baby carrycot, comprising:

[0031] Base member;

[0032] a first frame member having a first end and a second end;

[0033] A second frame member having a first end and a second end, wherein the second frame member is pivotally coupled to the first frame member at a location between the first end and the second end of the second frame member.

[0034] wherein the first frame member and the second frame member together define a side wall of the carrycot, wherein the first frame member and the second frame member are coupled together such that pivoting of the first frame member and the second frame member relative to each other changes the height of the side wall of the carrycot; and

[0035] A securing mechanism releasably locks the first frame member and / or the second frame member relative to the base member to prevent the first end of the first frame member and / or the second frame member from sliding relative to the base member.

[0036] In order to avoid unnecessary duplication of effort and duplication of text in the specification, certain features are described only with respect to one or more aspects or embodiments of the present invention. However, it should be understood that, where technically feasible, the features described with respect to any aspect or embodiment of the present invention may also be used with any other aspect or embodiment of the present invention. For example, the features described with respect to the first aspect mentioned may be combined with the features of the second aspect mentioned. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] For a better understanding of the present invention, and in order to more clearly show how the present invention may be implemented, reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0038] Figure 1 is a side view of a previously proposed carrycot;

[0039] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a foldable carrycot according to the present disclosure, wherein a covering of the foldable carrycot is omitted for clarity;

[0040] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of a foldable carrycot shown in FIG. 1 , showing the base of the carrycot;

[0041] Figure 4 Is displayed for Figure 1 and 2 A top view of the engagement mechanism of the fixed portion of the foldable carrycot shown in FIG.

[0042] Figure 5 Yes Display Figure 4 A perspective view of a portion of an engagement mechanism shown in FIG. 1 engaging a base member of a carrycot. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] refer to Figure 1 The previously proposed carrycot 2 includes a bed portion 10 having a base 12, a top 14, a first side wall 16a and a second side wall 16b, a first end wall 18a and a second end wall 18b, which together define an interior space of the bed portion. A mattress (not shown) may be disposed on the base 12 within the interior space of the bed portion. When using the carrycot 2, an infant may be placed on the mattress with their head at or toward one of the end walls, such as the first end wall 18a, and their feet toward another of the end walls, such as the second end wall 18b.

[0044] In this specification, the longitudinal direction of the carrycot is defined as the direction extending between the ends of the carrycot (e.g. between a first end wall arranged to place the head of an infant when the carrycot is in use and a second end wall 18b arranged to face the feet of the infant when the carrycot is in use). The transverse direction of the carrycot is defined as the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal and vertical directions (e.g. between the side walls of the carrycot).

[0045] The side walls 16a, 16b and end walls 18a, 18b of the carrycot may include one or more layers of material, such as fabric and / or cushioning, extending between the base 12 and the top 14. An opening 20 may be formed at the top 14 of the bed portion 10 to the interior space of the bed portion 10 to enable an infant to be placed in the interior space.

[0046] like Figure 1 As shown, the opening 20 may be at least partially closed by a cover 30, for example a cover of a material such as fabric. The cover 30 may be detachable and / or removable, and in some arrangements may be omitted.

[0047] The carrycot 2 may also include a hood 40. The hood 40 may include a hood support rod 42 coupled to the bed portion 10 and a canopy 44, for example formed of one or more layers of material such as fabric, which is supported by the hood support rod 42. The canopy may extend from the hood support rod 42 to one of the end walls 18a, 18b of the bed portion 10, such that the hood canopy may extend over a portion of the opening 20 (e.g., a portion not covered by the lid 30) to protect the infant from sunlight, rain, and other weather. The hood 40 may also include one or more intermediate support members for supporting the canopy 44 between the hood support rod 42 and the end walls 18a, 18b of the bed portion. The hood support rod 42 may be pivotally movable relative to the bed portion 10 to adjust the extent to which the hood covers the opening 20.

[0048] The carrycot 2 may also include stroller mounts 50 on either side of the carrycot 2 for attaching the carrycot 2 to a chassis of a stroller (not shown).

[0049] The carrycot 2 also includes a ridged support frame (at Figure 1 The ridge support frame includes one or more frame members that rigidly support the shape of the bed portion 10. In particular, the ridge support frame can rigidly support the top 14, the first and second side walls 16a and 16b, and the first and second end walls 18a and 18b relative to the base 12 and the stroller mount 50. The ridge support frame can also support the hood 40, such as the hood support rod 42, relative to the base 12 and the stroller mount 50.

[0050] Now refer to Figure 2 A carrycot 100 according to the present disclosure is described. Figure 2 In the illustration, the material covering and cushioning are omitted for clarity, so that the support frame 200 of the carrycot 100 is visible. The canopy of the cover is also omitted.

[0051] The carrycot 100 is similar to the carrycot 2 and includes a bed portion 110 having a base 112 , a top 114 , first and second lateral sides 142 , 144 , and first and second longitudinal ends 162 , 164 .

[0052] The support frame 200 includes a base member 210 that at least partially forms a base 112 of the carrycot, and an upper member 220 that at least partially forms a top 120 of the carrycot, such as a bed portion of the carrycot. The support frame also includes a first frame member 230 and a second frame member 240. The first frame member 230 and the second frame member 240 extend between the base member 210 and the upper member 220 and at least partially form first and second laterally opposing side walls 116a, 116b of the carrycot 100 at first and second sides 142, 144, respectively.

[0053] The carrycot 100 may further include a carrycot fixing member 150 for coupling the carrycot 100 to a chassis (not shown) of a carrycot. As shown, the carrycot fixing member 150 may be coupled to or integrally formed with the base member 210.

[0054] The carrycot 100 may also include a hood support bar 160 that is pivotally coupled to the frame 200, for example, to the upper member 220. The hood support bar 160 may be similar to the hood support bar 160 described above. Figure 1 The cover support rod 42 is similarly described.

[0055] The carrycot 100 can also include a carry handle 170. As depicted, the carry handle 170 can be coupled to the frame 200, for example, to the upper member 220, at a side of the carrycot.

[0056] The first frame member 230 and the second frame member 240 include respective first ends 230a, 240a and second ends 230b, 240b. The first ends 230a, 240a of the first frame member and the second frame member are coupled to the bottom member. The second ends 230b, 240b of the first frame member and the second frame member may be coupled to the upper member 220.

[0057] As depicted, the first frame member 230 includes a first side wall portion 232. The first side wall portion 232 is configured to extend from a first end 230a of the first frame member to a second end 230b of the first frame member at a first lateral side 142 of the carrycot to partially form a first side wall 116a of the carrycot. As shown, the first side wall portion 232 can extend in a direction having components in the longitudinal and vertical directions of the carrycot 100.

[0058] The first frame member 230 also includes a second side wall portion 234. The second side wall portion 234 is arranged to extend from the first end 230a of the first frame member to the second end 230b of the first frame member at the second lateral side 144 of the carrycot to partially form the second side wall 116b of the carrycot. As depicted, the second side wall portion 234 can extend in a direction parallel to the first side wall portion.

[0059] The first frame member 230 also includes a transversely extending portion 236 extending transversely between the first sidewall portion 232 and the second sidewall portion 234. As shown, the transversely extending portion 236 can extend between the first sidewall portion 232 and the second sidewall portion 234 at the first end 230a of the first frame member 230.

[0060] The laterally extending portion 236 may be generally cylindrical and may form a pivot pin for the first frame member 230 to facilitate pivoting of the first frame member 230 relative to the base member 210 , as described below.

[0061] In the illustrated arrangement, the first side wall portion 232, the second side wall portion 234, and the transverse extension portion 236 are integrally formed. However, in other arrangements, the first side wall portion 232 and the second side wall portion 234 may be separate components from each other. In such an arrangement, each of the first side wall portion and the second side wall portion 234 may include a transverse extension portion that extends partially across the transverse width of the carrycot at the first end 230a, for example to serve as a pivot for the first side wall portion and the second side wall portion. Alternatively, the first side wall portion and the second side wall portion 232, 234 may include another structure that facilitates the first side wall portion 232 and the second side wall portion 234 to pivot relative to the base member 210 at the first end 230a. The second frame member 240 is similar to the first frame member 230 and includes: a first side wall portion 242, which is arranged to partially form the first side wall 116a of the carrycot; a second side wall portion 242, which is arranged to partially form the second side wall 116b of the carrycot; and a laterally extending portion 246, which extends laterally between the first side wall portion and the second side wall portion of the second frame member 240 at the second end 240b of the second frame member 240.

[0062] The laterally extending portion 246 of the second frame member may be generally cylindrical and may form a pivot pin for the second frame member 240 to facilitate pivoting of the second frame member relative to the base member 210 as described below.

[0063] Although in the illustrated arrangement, the first side wall portion 242, the second side wall portion 244, and the transverse extension portion 246 are integrally formed, in other arrangements, the first side wall portion 242 and the second side wall portion 244 may be separate components from one another. In such an arrangement, each of the first side wall portion 242 and the second side wall portion 244 may include a transverse extension portion that extends partially across the transverse width of the carrycot at the first end 240a, or may include another structure that facilitates pivoting of the first side wall portion 242 and the second side wall portion 244 relative to the base member 210 at the first end 240a.

[0064] The first frame member 230 and the second frame member 240 can be pivotally coupled to each other, for example, at a position between the first end 230a, 240a and the second end 230b, 240b of the first frame member and the second frame member, respectively. In particular, the first side wall portion of the first frame member can be pivotally coupled to the first side wall portion of the second frame member, and the second side wall portion of the first frame member can be pivotally coupled to the second side wall portion of the second frame member. The first frame member and the second frame member can form a scissor-type connection, for example, at one lateral side or both lateral sides of the carrycot.

[0065] Since the first side wall portion 232 and the second side wall portion 234 of the first frame member 230 are linked by the lateral extension portion 236 of the first frame member, and the first side wall portion 242 and the second side wall portion 244 of the second frame member 240 are linked by the lateral extension portion 246 of the first frame member, the scissor-type links formed at the first lateral side 142 and the second lateral side 144 of the carrycot can pivot together.

[0066] The upper member 220 can be supported relative to the base member 210 by the first frame member 230 and the second frame member 240, such as by one or more scissor-type linkages formed by the first frame member 230 and the second frame member 240. The carrycot 100 can thus be configured such that pivoting of the first frame member 230 and the second frame member 240 relative to each other changes the distance between the base member 210 and the upper member 220, thereby adjusting the height of the bed portion 110 (e.g., the side walls and / or end walls) of the carrycot 100.

[0067] Although not in Figure 2 20, but it will be appreciated that the side walls and end walls of the carrycot 100 (e.g., the bed portion) are additionally formed of one or more layers of material, such as fabric, which may extend between the upper member 220 and the base member 210. The material may be formed in a similar manner to that of the Figure 1 The materials shown for the side walls and end walls of the illustrated carrycot 2 may be arranged in a similar manner. In some arrangements, for example, relative to the interior space of the bed portion 110, a first layer of material may be disposed between the upper member and the base member on the outside of the first and second frame members, and a second layer of material may be disposed between the upper member and the base member on the inside of the first and second frame members. Cushions may be disposed between the layers of material.

[0068] exist Figure 2 , the carrycot 100 is shown in an expanded configuration, wherein the upper member 220 is at a maximum desired height relative to the base member 210. In this arrangement, the side walls 116a, 116b and / or the end walls 118a, 118b of the carrycot have a predetermined height, such as the maximum desired height. The maximum desired height may be selected based on criteria set for the wall depth of the carrycot for an infant and / or ergonomic considerations for a parent or caregiver to place an infant into and lift the infant from the carrycot 100.

[0069] By operating the scissor-type linkage formed by the first frame member and the second frame member, the height of the upper member 220 relative to the base member 210 can be adjusted, such as lowered to a folded configuration of the carrycot, wherein the height of the carrycot 100 (e.g., the side walls and / or end walls of the carrycot) is lowered. Thus, the carrycot 100 can be referred to as a foldable carrycot. The carrycot can be folded into the folded configuration to store the carrycot. Storing the carrycot 100 in the folded configuration can allow the carrycot to be stored in a smaller space than when in the unfolded configuration.

[0070] like Figure 2 As shown in FIG, the first frame member 230 is coupled to the base member 210 at a first end 230a so that the first frame member 230 can pivot about the first end 230a relative to the base member 210. As shown, the first frame member is arranged to pivot about a first axis A1 extending in a transverse direction of the carrycot.

[0071] The second frame member 240 may also be coupled to the base member 210 at a first end 240a thereof or supported relative to the base member 210 such that the second frame member 240 may pivot about its first end relative to the base member. As shown, the second frame member 240 is arranged to pivot about a second axis A2 extending in a transverse direction of the carrycot. The second axis A2 is spaced apart from the first axis A1 in a longitudinal direction of the carrycot. In order to allow the first frame member and the second frame member to pivot relative to each other, the second frame member 240 is coupled to the base member 210 such that the first end of the second frame member may also slide relative to the base member 210. Figure 2 In the arrangement shown, the second frame member is coupled to the base member such that the first end of the second frame member is slidable in a longitudinal direction relative to the base member.

[0072] The base member 210 can include a body portion 212, and a first bracket 214 and a second bracket 216 coupled to the body portion. As depicted, the first bracket 214 is used to couple the first frame member 230 to the body portion 212 at a first end 230a of the first frame member 230. The first bracket 214 can be disposed at a first lateral side and a second lateral side of the base member 210 to support the first frame member 230 relative to the base member 210 across the width of the carrycot.

[0073] The first brackets 214 are configured so that when the first brackets 214 are coupled to the main body portion 212, a space is formed between each first bracket 214 and the main body portion, wherein the lateral extension portion of the first frame member 230 can be received in the space so as to couple the first frame member 230 to the base member. As described above, the lateral extension portion 236 is cylindrical, and therefore, the lateral extension portion 236 can form a pivot pin that rotates in the space formed between the first bracket and the base member to allow the first frame member 230 to pivot relative to the base member 21 about the first end 230a.

[0074] The second brackets 216 are used to couple the second frame member 240 to the body portion 212. The second brackets 216 can be disposed at first and second lateral sides of the base member to support the second frame member 240 relative to the base member 210 across the width of the carrycot.

[0075] As shown, the second bracket is configured so that when the second bracket 216 is coupled to the main body portion 212, a space is formed between each second bracket and the main body portion, the height of which is approximately equal to the diameter of the transverse extension portion of the second frame member, and the width set in the longitudinal direction of the baby crib is greater than the diameter of the transverse extension portion 246. The transverse extension portion 246 of the second frame member can be received in the space so as to couple the second frame member to the base member. As described above, the transverse extension portion 246 is cylindrical and can form a pivot pin that can rotate in the space formed between the second bracket and the base member to allow the second frame member 240 to pivot around the first end 240a relative to the base member 210. In addition, since the width of the space is greater than the diameter of the transverse extension portion 246, the transverse extension portion can slide relative to the base member in the space formed between the second bracket 216 and the main body portion 212. The range in which the second frame member can slide relative to the base member can be determined by the width of the space of the baby crib in the longitudinal direction.

[0076] In other arrangements, the first frame member and the second frame member can be coupled to the base member in any other manner so that the first member can pivot relative to the base member and the second frame member can pivot and slide relative to the base member. For example, in some arrangements, the second bracket 216 can be omitted. In such an arrangement, the second frame member can be supported relative to the base member by its coupling to a fixing mechanism, as described below.

[0077] When the first side wall portion and the second side wall portion of the first frame member and / or the second frame member are separate components, each of the first side wall portion and the second side wall portion can be connected to the main body portion 212 to allow the first side wall portion and the second side wall portion to pivot and slide relative to the base member at the first end 230a, 230b in a manner similar to that described above.

[0078] return Figure 2 , the first frame member 230, such as the first side wall portion 232 and the second side wall portion 234, can be coupled to the upper member 220 at the second end 230b of the first frame member, so that the first frame member can slide and pivotally move relative to the upper member 220 at the second end of the first frame member. As depicted, the pivot pin 238 can be pivotally coupled to the first frame member at the second end 230b, such as at one pivot pin 238 on each of the first side wall portion and the second side wall portion, and the pivot pin can be slidably coupled to the upper member 220.

[0079] The second frame member 240, such as the first side wall portion 242 and the second side wall portion 244, can be pivotally coupled to the upper member 220 at a second end of the second frame member. For example, a pivot pin 248 can be pivotally coupled to the second frame member at the second end 240b, such as one pivot pin 248 on each of the first side wall portion and the second side wall portion, and the pivot pin 248 can be pivotally coupled to the upper member 220.

[0080] The foldable carrycot 100 also includes a securing mechanism 300 for securing the position of the upper member 220 relative to the base member 210. The securing mechanism can be configured to secure the position of the upper member 220 in one or more positions, such as a first position corresponding to the unfolded configuration of the foldable carrycot, and optionally, a second position corresponding to the folded configuration of the foldable carrycot. In some arrangements, the securing mechanism 300 can be configured to secure the upper member in one or more intermediate positions between the first position and the second position.

[0081] exist Figures 2 to 5 In the arrangement shown, the fixing mechanism 300 is configured to fix the position of the upper member 220 relative to the base member 210 by fixing the position of the first end 240a of the second frame member 240 relative to the base member 210, for example, to limit the sliding of the first end of the second frame member relative to the base member, thereby limiting the pivoting of the first frame member and the second frame member relative to each other.

[0082] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4The fixing mechanism 300 includes a main body 310. The main body 310 is movable relative to the base member 210, for example, slidable, for example, slidable in the longitudinal direction of the carrycot 100. The main body 310 can be slidably coupled to the base member 210. The fixing mechanism 300 also includes a fixing portion 400 for fixing the position of the main body 310 relative to the base member 210 to limit the sliding of the main body 310 relative to the base member 210.

[0083] The fixing mechanism body 310 and the second frame member 240, such as the first end 240a of the second frame member 240, may be configured to slide together relative to the base member 210. For example, the second frame member 240 may be pivotally coupled to the fixing mechanism body 310 at the first end 240a of the second frame member. Fixing the body 310 relative to the base member 210 may thereby limit the sliding of the first end 240a of the second frame member 240 relative to the base member, thereby limiting the pivoting of the second frame member 240 relative to the first frame member 230.

[0084] The fixing portion 400 includes an engagement element 410 and an engagement mechanism 420. The engagement element 410 is used to selectively engage the base member of the frame 200 so as to fix the body 310 of the fixing mechanism relative to the base member 210. The body 310 may form a housing in which the engagement mechanism 420 is accommodated. The engagement mechanism 420 is configured to move the engagement element 410, for example, in a lateral direction of the carrycot, so as to selectively engage and disengage the base member 210.

[0085] The base member 210 may include a complementary engagement feature 218, such as an opening. The complementary engagement feature 218 may be configured to engage with an engagement element 410 of the securing mechanism. For example, the complementary engagement feature 218 may be configured to at least partially receive the engagement element. The complementary engagement feature may be arranged so that when the body 310 is in a position corresponding to the deployed configuration of the carrycot 100 relative to the base member 210, the engagement feature is aligned with and can engage with the complementary engagement feature, so that when the first frame member 230 and the second frame member 240 are arranged so that the side walls and / or end walls of the carrycot are at a maximum desired height, the securing mechanism can be used to secure the position of the body 310.

[0086] In some arrangements, additional complementary engagement features (not shown) may be provided on the base member 210 so that the engagement element 410 may engage the base member at one or more additional positions (e.g., positions corresponding to the folded position and / or the intermediate position). However, in the arrangement shown, no additional complementary engagement features are provided.

[0087] The engagement mechanism 420 includes a user-actuable switch 422. As depicted, the switch 422 is slidably mounted on the body of the fixing mechanism and can be moved relative to the body by a user to operate the engagement mechanism 420. In the arrangement shown, the switch 422 includes a button that is slidably received in an opening formed in the body. The button can be pressed into the opening or retracted therefrom to operate the engagement mechanism 420. In other arrangements, the switch 422 can include any other user-actuable element that can be pushed, pulled, pivoted, twisted, or slid or moved by the user in any other manner to actuate the switch 422.

[0088] As depicted, the switch 422 is slidable in the longitudinal direction of the carrycot. However, in other arrangements, the switch 422 is slidable in another direction, such as having a component in the transverse or vertical direction.

[0089] The engagement mechanism 420 also includes a link member 426. The link member 426 is coupled to the engagement element 410 at a first end 426a of the link member 426. The link member 426 includes a cam surface 428, such as a cam slot, formed on the link member at or near a second end 426b of the link member. A follower element 424 for following the cam surface 428 on the link member is formed on the user-actuable switch 422. As depicted, the follower element 424 can be received in the cam slot.

[0090] The engagement mechanism 420 is configured such that when actuated by a user in a first direction (e.g., pressing the switch 422), the driven element 424 moves along the cam surface 428. The link member 426 is constrained to move in a second direction. The second direction may be at an angle, such as a non-zero angle, relative to the first direction. For example, the first direction may be the longitudinal direction of the carrycot, and the second direction may be the transverse direction of the carrycot. The cam surface is inclined relative to the first direction and the second direction, so that when the driven element 424 moves along the cam surface 428, the link member 426 is moved in the second direction. The link member 426 then moves the engagement element 410 to disengage from the base member 210.

[0091] When the switch 422 is actuated in a direction opposite to the first direction, the driven element 424 moves backward along the cam surface 428, thereby moving the link member 426 in a direction opposite to the second direction, which moves the engagement element to engage with the base member. The engagement mechanism can be biased in the direction in which the engagement element engages with the base member. For example, the engagement mechanism can include an elastic element 429 such as a coil spring that biases the switch 422 in a direction opposite to the first direction.

[0092] Thus, actuating the switch 422 may thereby release the securing mechanism 300 to allow the first end of the second frame member 240 to slide relative to the base member 210 .

[0093] like Figure 4 As shown, the fixed portion 400 may include an additional engagement element 430 and an additional engagement mechanism 440 for selectively moving the additional engagement element 430 to engage and disengage with the base member independently of the engagement element 410 and the engagement mechanism 420. As shown, the additional engagement mechanism 440 may include an additional user-actuable switch 442 and an additional linkage member 444. The additional switch 442 and the additional linkage member 444 may be configured in a similar manner to the switch 422 and the linkage member 426, as described above, so that actuating the additional switch 442 operates the additional engagement mechanism 440 to move the additional engagement element 430 to engage and disengage the base member 210.

[0094] like Figure 5 As shown, the base member 210 may include an additional complementary engagement feature 219 that is configured to engage (eg, receive) an additional engagement element 430 of an additional securing mechanism.

[0095] return Figure 4 The further engagement mechanism 440 may include a further elastic element 449 to bias the further engagement mechanism 440 in a direction in which the further engagement element engages with the base member 210 .

[0096] As shown, the additional engagement element 430 and the additional engagement mechanism 440 may be formed as mirror images of the engagement element 410 and the engagement mechanism 420 about the longitudinal centerline of the carrycot.

[0097] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that while the invention has been described by way of example with reference to one or more exemplary examples, the invention is not limited to the disclosed examples and that alternative examples may be constructed without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A foldable portable baby crib, comprising: Base member; a first frame member and a second frame member, wherein the first frame member and the second frame member together at least partially define a side wall or an end wall of the foldable carrycot, and wherein the first frame member and the second frame member are pivotally coupled together such that pivoting of the first frame member and the second frame member relative to each other changes the height of the side wall or the end wall of the foldable carrycot; wherein the first frame member is pivotally movable relative to the base member, and the second frame member is pivotally and slidably movable relative to the base member; and A fixing mechanism for releasably fixing the second frame member relative to the base member so that sliding of the second frame member relative to the base member is restricted, thereby restricting pivoting of the first frame member relative to the second frame member, wherein the fixing mechanism comprises: a main body portion which is slidable relative to the base member in the longitudinal direction of the foldable carrycot; and a fixing portion for fixing the position of the main body portion relative to the base member, wherein the fixing portion comprises an engaging element for selectively engaging the base member so as to fix the main body of the fixing mechanism relative to the base member, wherein the engaging element is movable relative to the base member in a direction having a component in the transverse direction of the foldable carrycot.

2. The foldable carrycot according to claim 1, wherein: The second frame member is pivotally coupled to the body of the securing mechanism.

3. The foldable carrycot according to claim 1, wherein: The base member includes an opening for receiving the engagement element at a location on the base member, wherein the opening is aligned with the engagement element when the first frame member and the second frame member are arranged so that the side wall or end wall of the foldable carrycot is at a maximum desired height.

4. The foldable carrycot according to claim 1, wherein: The securing mechanism includes an engagement mechanism and a switch actuatable by a user, the engagement mechanism being adapted to move the engagement element to disengage or engage with the base member when the switch is actuated.

5. The foldable carrycot according to claim 4, wherein: The engagement mechanism comprises a link member coupled to the engagement element, wherein a cam surface is formed on the link member, wherein the switch comprises a follower element engaged with the cam surface, wherein when the switch is actuated, the cam surface and the follower element together guide movement of the link member to move the engagement element.

6. The foldable carrycot according to claim 5, wherein: The cam surface is angled such that action of the follower element along the cam surface causes the link member to move in a direction that is angled relative to the direction in which the switch is actuated.

7. A foldable carrycot according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein: The switch is actuatable in a longitudinal direction of the foldable carrycot.

8. The foldable carrycot according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The engagement element is biased into a configuration in which the engagement element engages the base member.

9. The foldable carrycot according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The securing portion further includes a further engagement element to selectively engage the base member of the foldable carrycot to secure the body of the securing mechanism relative to the base member, wherein the further engagement element is actuated independently of the engagement element to engage and disengage with the base member.

10. The foldable carrycot according to claim 9, wherein: The fixed portion further comprises a further engagement mechanism and a further switch actuated by a user, the further engagement mechanism being adapted to move the further engagement element to disengage and engage with the base member when the further switch is actuated by the user.

11. The foldable carrycot according to claim 10, wherein: The engagement mechanism and the further engagement mechanism are configured such that the switch and the further switch are actuatable in the same direction as each other in order to disengage the engagement element and the further engagement element, respectively, from the base member.

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