Suspension support system for bouncing device

Abstract

The invention relates to a combined suspension-safety support system and a child bouncing device combined with the same. The combined suspension-safety support system includes a main suspension support system configured to suspend the child receiving seat platform under normal operating conditions and a spare auxiliary safety support system configured to suspend the child receiving seat platform under normal operating conditions. And the spare auxiliary safety support system is configured to engage when the main suspension support system fails.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 400,162, filed on August 23, 2022, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of child support devices, and more particularly to children's activity centers and bouncers having improved safety support systems. Background Art

[0004] Bouncers and activity centers are used for entertainment and to promote the development of gross motor skills in children. Known bouncers generally include a seat that is suspended from a frame by restraints and / or straps so that the seat is configured to move relative to the frame and the ground - typically within a vertical range of motion to simulate bouncing or jumping. However, these restraints and straps can fail due to wear, which can potentially cause the seat to accidentally fall off during use. Thus, it can be seen that there is a need for an improved children's bouncer. It is an object to provide an improved children's bouncer having an improved safety support system that meets these and other needs that the present disclosure is primarily directed to. Summary of the invention

[0005] In an example embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a child bouncer. The child bouncer includes a support frame, at least one support member, and a child receiving device. The support frame is configured to rest on a support surface or a floor below, and at least one support mechanism is configured to suspend the child receiving device from the support frame so that the child receiving device can move in a generally vertical direction relative to the support surface.

[0006] In one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a child jumper, which includes a seat platform, wherein the seat is mounted to the seat platform. The jumper further includes a support frame and at least one resilient support mechanism, which is configured to suspend the seat platform from the support frame and allow the seat platform to move relative to the support frame. At least one resilient support mechanism includes a main support member and an auxiliary safety member. The main support member is load-bearing under normal operating conditions, and the auxiliary safety member is configured to bear the load when the main support member fails. Optionally, the main support member and the auxiliary safety member are both integrated into the support mechanism. Optionally, the main support member and the auxiliary safety member are arranged or operated in series. Optionally, the support mechanism includes an anchor point shared by the main support member and the auxiliary safety member. Optionally, the main support member and the auxiliary safety member can be independently fixed to the anchor point. Optionally, the support mechanism can further include a protective sleeve, which is configured to manage any excess parts or materials from the main support member and the auxiliary safety member to prevent the head from being clamped between the main support member and the auxiliary safety member.

[0007] In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a suspension-safety support system for a child activity device, such as, for example, an infant jumper or activity center. The suspension-safety support system is configured to suspend a child seat or seat platform from a support frame of an infant jumper. The support system includes a primary restraint and a secondary restraint, which are at least partially encased in a protective sleeve for managing excess portion of each restraint. Preferably, the primary restraint is configured to bear the load of the child seat under normal operating conditions, and the secondary restraint is configured to bear the load when the primary restraint fails. Preferably, the primary restraint and the secondary restraint share a common adjustable anchor point, but are independently secured to the anchor point.

[0008] In an example embodiment, the suspension-safety support system includes a main support system having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, an auxiliary support system having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, a frame anchor bracket, and a platform anchor bracket. The first end of the main support system and the first end of the auxiliary support system are fixed to the frame anchor bracket, and the second end of the main support system and the second end of the auxiliary support system are fixed to the platform anchor bracket. The main support system includes a first resilient member, a second resilient member, a third resilient member, and an elastic member, wherein the second resilient member and the elastic member extend between the first resilient member and the second resilient member. The resilient member can be a belt, and the elastic member can be a spring.

[0009] Preferably, the primary support system and the secondary support system are fixed to the anchor bracket independently of each other.

[0010] Optionally, the suspension-safety support system may include a casing, wherein the main support system and / or the auxiliary support system are covered by the casing.

[0011] Optionally, the suspension-safety support system may further include a first sleeve and a second sleeve, wherein the main support system is covered by the first sleeve and the auxiliary support system is covered by the second sleeve. In addition, the first sleeve and the second sleeve may be detachably fixed to each other, or the first sleeve and the second sleeve may be permanently combined or fixed to each other.

[0012] In another example embodiment, a suspension-safety support system includes: a main support system having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end; an auxiliary support system having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end; a protective sleeve; a frame anchor bracket; and a platform anchor bracket, wherein the first end of the main support system and the first end of the auxiliary support system are fixed to the frame anchor bracket, and the second end of the main support system and the second end of the auxiliary support system are fixed to the platform anchor bracket. The main support system includes a frame restraint portion, a spring restraint portion, a platform restraint portion, and a spring portion.

[0013] Preferably, the protective sleeve covers at least a portion of the primary support system. Optionally, the protective sleeve may cover at least a portion of the primary support system and a portion of the auxiliary support system. Alternatively, the protective sleeve may include a first sleeve section and a second sleeve section, wherein the first sleeve section covers at least a portion of the primary support system and the second sleeve section covers at least a portion of the auxiliary support system. Optionally, the first sleeve section and the second sleeve section may be detachable from each other.

[0014] These and other aspects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will be understood with reference to the drawings and detailed description herein, and will be realized through the various elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the accompanying drawings and detailed descriptions below are explanations of example embodiments of the present disclosure, rather than limitations of the present disclosure as claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Figure 1 Potential failure points in the support straps or restraints of a prior art jumper are shown, with potential failures indicated by Xs.

[0016] Figures 2A to 4 The functional limitations and safety issues associated with separate attachment / anchorage points for the primary support belt and the secondary safety belt are illustrated.

[0017] Figure 5A A combined suspension-safety support system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0018] Figure 5B yes Figure 6 Side view of A's combined suspension-safety support system.

[0019] Figure 6 is a side view of a combined suspension-safety support system according to another example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 7 is a side view of a combined suspension-safety support system according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 8 shows when a load less than the maximum load is placed on the main support system Figure 6 The combined suspension-safety support system is in neutral or normal operating condition.

[0022] Fig. 9 The modular support system is shown in bending or tension when the maximum load is placed on the main support system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The present invention may be more readily understood by reference to the detailed description of example embodiments described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this disclosure. It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific apparatus, methods, conditions or parameters described and / or illustrated herein, and that the terms used herein are used only to describe specific embodiments by way of example and are not intended to limit the claimed invention. Any and all patents and other publications identified in this specification are incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.

[0024] Likewise, as used in the specification, including the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural, and references to a particular value include at least that particular value, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" or "approximately" one particular value and / or to "about" or "approximately" another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Similarly, when a value is expressed as an approximation by using the antecedent "about", it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment.

[0025] Infant jumping entertainers or bouncers have long been a mainstay of the infant product industry. Known bouncers generally include a seat platform suspended from a frame by restraints and / or straps such that the seat platform is configured to move relative to the frame and the ground—typically within a vertical range of motion—to simulate a bounce or bounce. However, the seat platform and restraints wear over time and use, which can cause the seat platform to accidentally fall or otherwise fail during use.

[0026] Referring now to the drawings, in which like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views, Figure 1 An example of a potential failure point (indicated by an X) in a prior art support strap and restraint 1 is shown. Generally speaking, the support strap 1 includes a frame anchor 2 for coupling the support strap 1 to a support frame, such as a child bouncer or activity center, a frame restraint 3, a spring restraint 4, a spring 5, a platform restraint 6, and a platform anchor 7 for coupling the support strap 1 to a seat platform, such as a child bouncer or activity center. The spring restraint 4 and the spring 5 are disposed between the frame restraint 3 and the platform restraint 6. Generally speaking, the frame restraint 3, the spring restraint 4, and the platform restraint 6 are made of a resilient material.

[0027] like Figure 1 As shown, potential failure points (e.g., tearing, disconnection, rupture, etc.) may occur along the frame restraint 3, the platform restraint 6, the spring restraint 4, or any combination thereof. Any of these failures may result in injury to the child supported by the support belt. For example, the spring restraint 4 is resilient and limits the movement / stretching of the spring 6, while providing auxiliary safety support in the event of a break or failure of the spring 6. However, if at least one of the other restraints (e.g., the platform restraint 5 and the frame restraint 3) fails, the seat holding the child may potentially fall to the floor, thereby causing injury to the child. Although still possible, the possibility of both the spring restraint 4 and the spring 6 failing at the same time is less.

[0028] There are several potential design options that can be implemented to address these failures, such as, for example, increasing the strength of the material, using a more wear-resistant material to extend the life of the component, or adding a backup system to the support belt. The most reliable way is to add a backup device by adding an auxiliary support member. However, if Figures 2A to 4 As shown, there are significant complications and design limitations when incorporating secondary support members having anchor points independent of the primary support member. For example, FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B Such an arrangement is shown in which the main support system 10 and the auxiliary safety belt 12 are attached independently of each other to separate attachment points or anchor points 14 and 16 on the seat platform S and the jumper support frame F, respectively. Such an arrangement results in a loss of function when the user attempts to adjust the main support belt to a lower position, and the jumper no longer allows jumping. In addition, combining independent main and auxiliary suspension systems does not achieve any overall height adjustment because these adjustments need to be independent of each other, which is unreasonable for the user to make a correct adjustment (see Figure 3). This adjustment also creates the problem of the head being caught between the primary support system / belt 10 and the secondary support system / belt 12. To achieve jumping capability and allow the seat to be adjusted via the belt (rather than via portions of the support frame), both support systems need to be adjusted simultaneously, which can limit the design. Building height adjustment into the frame (e.g., by moving the legs or adjusting the frame, as in Figure 4 ) or combined with soft material 20 to prevent the head from being clamped, there are also design limitations and do not meet the modern needs of consumers.

[0029] The present disclosure relates to a suspension support system for an infant jumper and a jumper incorporating the same, thereby resolving the noted failures and other complications. For example, FIG. 5A to FIG. 9 A combined suspension-safety support system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In an example embodiment, the combined suspension-safety support system 100 generally includes a main support system 110 and an auxiliary support system 130 that operates or is arranged in series with the main support system. According to an example embodiment, the main support system 110 is mainly used as a suspension system that bears the load under normal operation or conditions, while the auxiliary support system 130 is mainly used as a backup or safety support system under fault operation or conditions (i.e., when the main support system breaks or fails). The main support system and the auxiliary support system may include one or more connectors, buckles, couplings, clips, fasteners, springs, restraints and / or belts.

[0030] Combining or integrating the primary support system and the auxiliary support system allows the auxiliary support system to be seamless within the overall design and function of the combined suspension support system. This is achieved by incorporating an auxiliary support system that operates in series with the primary support system. For example, as shown in Figure 5, the combined suspension-safety support system 100 includes a primary support system 110 and a secondary support system 130, the primary support system including a frame restraint 112, a spring restraint 114, a spring or elastic member 116, and a platform restraint 118, and the secondary support system including a safety belt 132. The primary support system and the auxiliary support system are connected to the frame anchors or brackets 150 and the platform anchors or brackets 160, but the primary support system and the auxiliary support system are independently connected to the anchors (i.e., the primary support system and the auxiliary support system are not directly connected or secured to each other). As shown in Figures 5 to Figure 7 As shown, the integrated support system may also include a protective spring sleeve or cover 170 which may be incorporated in various ways to manage any excess material or portions of the primary and secondary support systems to help prevent head pinching between the primary and secondary restraints.

[0031] According to an exemplary embodiment, the auxiliary strap 132 is fastened in a non-load bearing manner so that when the main system is fully loaded, there is no significant load on the auxiliary system (i.e., normal operation or state). When a failure occurs at any point along the rebounding main support system 110 (i.e., faulty operation or state), the auxiliary restraint system 130 is engaged. In addition, the integrated or combined support system realizes a seamless height adjustment feature because the main support system and the auxiliary support system are tied to a common adjustable anchor point on the jumper support frame and / or the seat platform. In an exemplary embodiment, the anchor points 150 and 160 are rigid members configured to connect the rebound member (i.e., the support system or support strap 110, 130) to the jumper support frame or structure and / or the seat platform. As shown in Figure 5, the main support system 110 and the second support system 130 both extend between and are fixed to the frame anchor 150 and the platform anchor 160. The anchor points may be made of metal, plastic, or other types of non-flexible materials that are resistant to wear, abrasion, and cracking.

[0032] In an example embodiment, the resilient members (such as, for example, the primary support system and the auxiliary support system) include flexible members made of woven or braided flexible materials (such as, for example, nylon or polyester webbing, fabric, rope or cable). Preferably, the auxiliary support system is completely independent of the primary suspension system because failure of the primary suspension system does not affect the function or operation of the auxiliary support system. Preferably, if or when the primary support system fails (i.e., a faulty operating condition), the auxiliary support system is configured to fully support the weight or load of the seat platform and its occupant (i.e., a child or infant) and prevent the seat platform from falling to the ground or supporting surface. Preferably, the auxiliary support system is configured to prevent the seat or seat platform from tilting no more than 25° from the horizontal plane if the primary suspension system fails, and to prevent other dangerous situations.

[0033] According to an exemplary embodiment, the auxiliary support system 130 passes through the spring assembly 116 and is nailed to the spring sleeve 170, and the auxiliary support system 130 is not subjected to any load, as shown in FIG5. In another exemplary embodiment, the auxiliary support system 130 is located or arranged outside the spring sleeve 170, such as Figure 6 In another exemplary embodiment, the main support system 110 passes through a first spring sleeve 170' or is covered by the first spring sleeve 170', and the auxiliary support system 130 passes through a second spring sleeve 170" separated from the first spring sleeve or is covered by the second spring sleeve 170", as shown in FIG. Figure 7As shown. The first spring sleeve and the second spring sleeve can be permanently attached to each other, or the first spring sleeve 170' and the second spring sleeve 170" can include means for removably securing one to the other. For example, the spring sleeves can include cooperating hook and loop fasteners, clips, buckles, or other suitable connecting mechanisms for removably securing them together.

[0034] Although the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, additions and deletions are possible within the scope of the invention as defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. A baby bouncer, comprising: Support frame; a seat platform configured to receive a child therein; as well as one or more suspension support systems configured to suspend the seat platform from the support frame so that the seat platform can move relative to the support frame, The one or more suspension support systems include a main support member and an auxiliary support member.

2. The infant jumper of claim 1, wherein the main support member comprises at least one buckle, spring, restraint or strap.

3. The infant jumper of claim 1, wherein the primary support member and the secondary support member are connected by one or more anchors.

4. The infant jumper of claim 1, wherein the primary support member is configured for engagement under a normal operating condition and the secondary support member is configured for engagement under a fault operating condition when the primary support member fails.

5. A suspension-safety support system for children's bouncers and activity centers, the suspension-safety support system comprising one or more suspension straps and one or more safety straps, wherein the one or more safety straps do not bear loads during normal operation and bear loads during fault operation.

6. The suspension-safety support system of claim 5, wherein the one or more suspension straps and the one or more safety straps are connected via one or more anchors or brackets.

7. A suspension-safety support system for a child activity device having a frame and a child support platform, comprising: a main support system having a first end and a second end opposite the first end; an auxiliary support system having a first end and a second end opposite the first end; Frame anchor bracket; as well as Platform anchor bracket, The first end of the main support system and the first end of the auxiliary support system are fixed to the frame anchor bracket, and the second end of the main support system and the second end of the auxiliary support system are fixed to the platform anchor bracket.

8. The suspension-safety support system of claim 7, further comprising a sleeve, wherein the main support system is covered by the sleeve.

9. The suspension-safety support system according to claim 8, wherein the auxiliary support system is also covered by the sleeve.

10. The suspension-safety support system of claim 7, further comprising a first casing and a second casing, wherein the main support system is covered by the first casing, and the auxiliary support system is covered by the second casing.

11. The suspension-safety support system of claim 10, wherein the first sleeve and the second sleeve are detachably fixed to each other.

12. The suspension-safety support system of claim 10, wherein the first sleeve and the second sleeve are permanently fixed to each other.

13. The suspension-safety support system of claim 7, wherein the main support system comprises a first resilient member, a second resilient member, a third resilient member, and an elastic member, wherein the second resilient member and the elastic member extend between the first resilient member and the second resilient member.

14. The suspension-safety support system of claim 13, wherein the resilient member is a belt and the elastic member is a spring.

15. The suspension-safety support system of claim 7, wherein the main support system and the auxiliary support system are fixed to the anchor bracket independently of each other.

16. A suspension-safety support system for a children's activity device, comprising: a main support system having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the main support system comprising a frame restraining portion, a spring restraining portion, a platform restraining portion, and a spring portion; an auxiliary support system having a first end and a second end opposite the first end; Protective sleeve; Frame anchor bracket; as well as Platform anchor bracket, The first end of the main support system and the first end of the auxiliary support system are fixed to the frame anchor bracket, and the second end of the main support system and the second end of the auxiliary support system are fixed to the platform anchor bracket.

17. The suspension-safety support system of claim 16, wherein the protective sleeve covers at least a portion of the main support system.

18. The suspension-safety support system of claim 16, wherein the protective sleeve covers at least a portion of the main support system and a portion of the auxiliary support system.

19. The suspension-safety support system according to claim 16, wherein the protective sleeve comprises a first sleeve section and a second sleeve section, and wherein the first sleeve section covers at least a portion of the main support system, and the second sleeve section covers at least a portion of the auxiliary support system.

20. The suspension-safety support system of claim 19, wherein the first and second casing sections are detachable from each other.

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