Optical fiber level indicator

Abstract

A level indicator includes a housing and an indicator member rotatable relative to the housing. The indicator member is biased to a rest position under gravity. The indicator member has a luminous visual indicator. The luminescent visual indicator indicates a position of the indicator member relative to the housing.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application is a non - provisional application that claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 609,162, filed on December 12, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a level indicator and, in some embodiments, to a level indicator for a child safety system.

[0004] Child safety systems are used to transport children and are typically designed to be used in motor vehicles to properly restrain children in the event of an accident. Child safety systems are designed to meet federal motor vehicle safety standards when properly installed in a vehicle. However, most child safety seats are not installed correctly. To improve installation in a vehicle, some child safety seats include means for keeping the child safety seat level with respect to the angle of the vehicle seat. While existing indicators such as bubble levels provide angle feedback for a child safety seat, these indicators can be difficult to see and may not be correctly readable due to light refraction. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] According to an embodiment, a level indicator includes a housing and an indicator member rotatable relative to the housing. The indicator member is biased to a rest position under the action of gravity. The indicator member has a light - emitting visual indicator. The light - emitting visual indicator indicates the position of the indicator member relative to the housing.

[0006] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the indicator member includes a light - transmissive member, and a portion of the light - transmissive member forms the light - emitting visual indicator.

[0007] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the light - transmissive member is an optical fiber filament.

[0008] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the optical fiber filament is colored.

[0009] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the light - emitting visual indicator is disposed at an end of the indicator member.

[0010] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the end of the optical fiber filament is arranged adjacent to the end of the indicator member.

[0011] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the optical fiber filament is arranged inside the body of the indicator member.

[0012] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the indicator member has a first end and a second end, and the centroid of the indicator member is positioned closer to the first end than to the second end.

[0013] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, in the stationary position, the first end is vertically disposed below the second end.

[0014] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the first end of the indicator member is enlarged relative to the remainder of the indicator member.

[0015] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the first end of the indicator member is weighted.

[0016] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the visual indicator of the indicator member is arranged at a second opposite end of the visual indicator.

[0017] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the indicator member includes a weight. The visual indicator of the indicator member and the weight of the indicator member are arranged on opposite sides of the rotation axis of the indicator member. The indicator member is rotatable relative to the housing about the rotation axis.

[0018] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, a pin extending from the housing and having a longitudinal axis is included, and the indicator member is rotatable about the longitudinal axis.

[0019] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, at least a portion of the indicator member is arranged inside the housing.

[0020] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, a cover is included that is attachable to the housing. The indicator member is disposed within a cavity defined between the housing and the cover.

[0021] According to an embodiment, a child seat assembly includes a seat body and a level indicator operatively coupled to the body. The level indicator has a light-emitting visual indicator operable to indicate the position of the seat body relative to a horizontal plane.

[0022] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the seat body is a support base of a child safety system.

[0023] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the seat body is a child seat of a child safety system.

[0024] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the level indicator further includes a housing and an indicator member that is rotatable relative to the housing and biased to a rest position under the force of gravity. The light-emitting visual indicator is disposed at the indicator member.

[0025] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the indicator member includes a light-transmissive member, and a portion of the light-transmissive member forms the light-emitting visual indicator.

[0026] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the light-transmissive member is an optical fiber filament.

[0027] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the optical fiber filament is colored.

[0028] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the light-emitting visual indicator is disposed at an end of the indicator member.

[0029] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, an end of the light-transmissive member is disposed adjacent to the end of the indicator member.

[0030] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the indicator member includes an indicator member body, and the optical fiber filaments are disposed inside the indicator member body.

[0031] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the indicator member has a first end and a second end, and the centroid of the indicator member is positioned closer to the first end than to the second end.

[0032] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, in the stationary position, the first end is vertically disposed below the second end.

[0033] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the first end of the indicator member is enlarged relative to the remainder of the indicator member.

[0034] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the first end of the indicator member is weighted.

[0035] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the visual indicator is disposed at a second opposite end of the visual indicator.

[0036] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the indicator member includes a weight. The visual indicator and the weight are disposed on opposite sides of the axis of rotation of the indicator member. The indicator member is rotatable relative to the housing about the axis of rotation.

[0037] A children's furniture item includes: a body operable to support a child; and a level indicator associated with the body to identify a level position of the body. The level indicator includes a housing and an indicator member rotatable relative to the housing. The indicator member is biased by gravity to a stationary position. The indicator member has a luminous visual indicator. The luminous visual indicator indicates a position of the indicator member relative to the housing.

[0038] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the children's furniture item is a high chair.

[0039] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or alternatively, in other embodiments, the children's furniture item is a children's seat.

[0040] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or alternatively, in other embodiments, the children's furniture item is a crib or a baby carrier toy.

[0041] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or alternatively, in other embodiments, the children's furniture item is a stroller.

[0042] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or alternatively, in other embodiments, the indicator member includes a light-transmissive member, and a portion of the light-transmissive member forms the light-emitting visual indicator.

[0043] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or alternatively, in other embodiments, the light-transmissive member is an optical fiber filament.

[0044] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or alternatively, in other embodiments, the light-transmissive member is disposed inside the body of the indicator member.

[0045] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or alternatively, in other embodiments, the light-emitting visual indicator is disposed at an end of the indicator member.

[0046] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or alternatively, in other embodiments, the indicator member has a first end and a second end, and the centroid of the indicator member is positioned closer to the first end than to the second end.

[0047] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or alternatively, in other embodiments, the first end of the indicator member is enlarged relative to the remainder of the indicator member.

[0048] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or alternatively, in other embodiments, the first end of the indicator member is weighted. Description of the Drawings

[0049] The following description should not be regarded as limiting in any way. Referring to the accompanying drawings, like reference numerals designate like elements:

[0050] Figure 1 is a front view of a horizontal indicator according to an embodiment;

[0051] Figure 2 is a front view of a horizontal indicator according to an embodiment having indicator members presented in various positions Figure 1 ;

[0052] Figure 3 is a top perspective view of a horizontal indicator according to an embodiment

[0053] Figure 4 is a side view of a child safety system including an infant seat according to an embodiment

[0054] Figure 5 is according to an embodiment Figure 4 perspective view of an infant seat of a child safety system

[0055] Figure 6 is a side view of a child safety system including a convertible child seat in a forward-facing orientation according to an embodiment

[0056] Figure 7 is according to an embodiment including a convertible child seat in a reclined and rear-facing orientation Figure 6 side view of a child safety system

[0057] Figure 8 is according to an embodiment Figure 6 and 7 top perspective view of a convertible child seat; and

[0058] Figure 9 is a schematic view of a cover of an indicator member according to an embodiment DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] The present disclosure provides a detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed devices and methods by way of example and not limitation with reference to the figures

[0060] Now referring to Figures 1 - 3 , an example of a horizontal indicator 20 according to an embodiment is shown. As shown, the horizontal indicator 20 includes a housing 22 and an indicator member 24 that is movable relative to the housing 22. Suitable materials for the housing 22 include, but are not limited to, for example, rigid plastic or composite materials. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a pin or shaft 26 projects from the surface of the housing 22, such as from the inner surface of the housing 22. The pin 26 may be integrally formed with the housing 22 or, alternatively, may be a separate component mounted to the housing 22. The indicator member 24 is configured to rotate at least partially about the longitudinal axis X of the pin 26. In an embodiment, the indicator member 24 is rotatably mounted to the pin 26

[0061] The indicator member 24 may include an elongated rigid body 30 having a first end 32 and an opposite second end 34. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the first end 32 of the body 30 is configured to facilitate rotation of the indicator member 24 to a rest or equilibrium position. In an embodiment, the first end 32 of the body 30 is enlarged relative to the remainder of the body 30. For example, the width of the body 30 at the first end 32 may be greater than the width of the body 30 at the second end 34 and / or at a generally central portion of the body 30. Alternatively or additionally, the first end 32 of the body 30 may be weighted or include a mass that intentionally adds weight to the first end 32. Due to the enlarged first end 32 or the heavy object embedded therein, the center of mass of the indicator member 24 is positioned closer to the first end 32 than the second end 34. Since the indicator member 24 is rotatably mounted about the pin 26, the indicator member 24 may operate in a manner similar to a pendulum, where the first end 32 of the indicator member 24 acts as the pendulum bob. The force of gravity acting on the first end 32 of the indicator member will cause the indicator member 24 to freely rotate about the pin 26 and its axis X until the indicator member reaches a rest, equilibrium position. In the rest, equilibrium position, the indicator member 24 may be generally vertically oriented, where the first end 32 of the body 30 is aligned with and disposed below the second end 34.

[0062] A portion of the indicator member 24, such as its second end 34, may be operable to indicate to a user the position of the indicator member 24 relative to the housing 22. Thus, the visual indicator and the heavy object are disposed on opposite sides of the axis of rotation of the indicator member. The second end 34 of the indicator member 24 may be a light-emitting visual indicator. In an embodiment, visible light is emitted at the second end 34 of the indicator member 24, and this light is the visual indicator. As shown, the body 30 of the indicator member 24 may include one or more light-transmissive members 40 that form the visual indicator by emitting visible light at the second end 34 of the body 30. Although the light-transmissive members 40 in the non-limiting embodiments described herein are optical fiber elements, it should be understood that the use of any suitable light-transmissive member, such as a light pipe, is within the scope of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, light is emitted from the end 42 of the optical fiber filament 40. Thus, in some embodiments, the end 42 of at least one optical fiber filament 40 is disposed at or near the second end 34 of the body 30 such that the light emitted from the end of the optical fiber filament is visible at the second end 34 of the indicator member.

[0063] In operation, the optical fiber filament 40 is configured to collect ambient light and output the light at its end. Additionally, the light output from the optical fiber filament 40 can be concentrated to make it easier to see. In some embodiments, the optical fiber filament 40 can have a color embedded therein. Thus, the concentrated light emitted from the second end 34 of the indicator member 24 can have the same color as the optical fiber filament 40 through which the light travels.

[0064] One or more optical fiber filaments 40 can be mounted to the body 30 of the indicator member 24 or can be positioned within the body. In embodiments where at least one optical fiber filament 40 is at least partially disposed inside the body 30 of the indicator member 24, light must be able to pass through the body 30 to reach the at least one optical fiber filament 40. For example, in some embodiments, the body 30 of the indicator member 24 can have one or more openings formed therein. Alternatively or additionally, all or at least a portion of the body 30 can be translucent such that ambient or surrounding light can transmit through the body 30 into the optical fiber filaments 40. However, embodiments where another light source is associated with the at least one optical fiber filament 40 and is configured to transmit light through the at least one optical fiber filament are also within the scope of the present disclosure. By way of example, a light-emitting material can be positioned adjacent to the first end 32 of the indicator member 24, e.g., on an interior portion of the housing, and can be a source of light that transmits through the light-transmissive member 40. In other embodiments, light from a powered light source, such as a light-emitting diode (LED) (not shown), can be transmitted into the light-transmissive member 40 to form a visual indicator at the indicator member 24. In such embodiments, the body 30 of the indicator member 24 does not need to include a window, nor does it need to be translucent, and the optical fiber filaments 40 can include a cladding or sheath. The powered light source can be disposed inside the housing 22 or, alternatively, can be positioned near the housing, e.g., on an adjacent portion of a child seat, as will be described in more detail below. In other embodiments, the light source can be disposed at or near any surface that allows light emitted therefrom to transmit toward the light-transmissive member 40.

[0065] Continuing to refer Figures 1 - 3 to, the housing 22 can have a first end 50 and one or more sidewalls 52 that are connected to the first end 50 and extend from the first end to define a hollow interior 54 ( Figure 3 ), at least a portion of the indicator member 24 being received within the hollow interior. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the first end 50 of the housing 22 is closed. However, embodiments where the first end 50 of the housing 22 is open are also within the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, in some embodiments, to reduce the size of the housing 22, the first end 52 of the housing 22 can have a curved or arcuate profile that is complementary to the movement path of the first end 32 of the indicator member 24.

[0066] In some embodiments, the cover 56 is disposed at or connectable to the housing 22. For example, the cover 56 may be connected to the second opposite ends 58 of one or more side walls 52 in an area proximate the second end 34 of the body 30 of the indicator member 24. In embodiments where the second end 34 of the indicator member 24 extends beyond the second end 58 of the housing 22, the cover 56 may similarly have a hollow interior 60. Thus, when installed around the housing 22, the interior 60 of the cover 56 may cooperate with the interior 54 of the housing 22 to receive the indicator member 24 as a whole between the housing 22 and the cover 56. However, embodiments where a portion of the indicator member 24 is not disposed within the interior 60 of the cover 56 or the interior 54 of the housing 22 are also contemplated herein. Additionally, it should be understood that although the cover 56 and the housing 22 are shown and described herein as separate components, embodiments where the cover 56 or at least a portion thereof is integrally formed with the housing 22 are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0067] Similar to the housing 22, the cover 56 may have a curved or arcuate profile that is generally complementary to the movement path of the second end 34 of the indicator member as the indicator member rotates about the axis X. The cover 56 may be translucent or at least partially translucent such that light emitted from the indicator member 24 is visible through the cover. In some embodiments, for example Figure 3 as shown, the translucency of the cover 56 is generally constant along the movement path of the second end 34 of the indicator member 24. In other embodiments, as Figure 1 and 2 shown, the cover 56 may have regions of different translucencies. For example, a first region 62 of the cover 56 (e.g., a central region aligned with the axis X) may have a greater translucency than a second region 64 of the cover 56 (e.g., disposed at the lateral sides of the first region 62).

[0068] In an embodiment, the housing 22 and / or the cover 56 of the level indicator 20 includes one or more mounting features 70 for positioning or mounting the level indicator 20 to a component, as will be described in more detail below. Thus, the level indicator 20 is operable to monitor the orientation of the component to which the level indicator 20 is connected via the one or more mounting features 70. In an embodiment, the level indicator 20 is operable to monitor the position of the component relative to a horizontal plane. Gravity acting on the indicator member 24 will cause the indicator member 24 to rest in a vertical position, where the second end 34 is vertically disposed above the first end 32. By connecting the housing 22 to the component, the housing 22 is configured to move with the component relative to the horizontal plane. If the component has a horizontal configuration, the light emitted by the indicator member 24 will be visible at a first region 62 of the cover 56, such as near the center of the cover 56. In the case where the component is at a non-parallel angle relative to the horizontal plane, the housing 22 will also be disposed at the same non-parallel angle relative to the horizontal plane. In such a configuration, when the indicator member 24 finally reaches a substantially vertical rest position, the light emitted by the indicator member 24 will be visible at a second region 64 of the cover 56, such as near one side of the cover 56. The positioning of the second end 34 and thus the visible light emitted by the indicator member 24 at a position offset from the center of the cover 56 can indicate to the user the direction and relative angle of the housing 22 and thus the component relative to the horizontal plane.

[0069] Reference Figure 9 , the cover 56 may include one or more markings 80a, 80b, 82a, 82b indicating a suitable positioning range of the indicator member 32. The markings 80a, 80b, 82a, 82b may be formed at the second region 64 of the cover 56. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the cover 56 includes at least one first marking 80a and at least one second marking 82a, 82b. The at least one first marking 80a and 80b may indicate to the user a suitable position (or range of positions) of the second end 34 of the indicator member 24 relative to the cover 56 associated with the operation of the level indicator 20 in a first configuration. Similarly, the at least one second marking 82a, 82b may indicate to the user a suitable position (or range of positions) of the second end 34 of the indicator member 24 relative to the cover 56 associated with the operation of the level indicator 20 in a second configuration.

[0070] As will be described in more detail below, the level indicator 20 can be used with a child safety system, and the first and second configurations of the level indicator 20 can be determined by corresponding configurations of the child safety system. When the child safety system is in a rear-facing orientation, the level indicator 20 can operate in a first configuration. In this first configuration, when the visual indicator of the indicator member 32 is positioned between the markers 80a and 80b, particularly in the area at or near the center point between the two markers 80a, 80b, the child safety system can be in a level condition. Similarly, when the child safety system is in a forward-facing orientation, the level indicator 20 can operate in a second configuration. When in the second configuration, when the visual indicator of the indicator member 32 is positioned between the markers 82a and 82b, such as in the area at or near the center point between the two markers 82a, 82b, the child safety system can be in a level condition. Although separate first markers 80a, 80b and second markers 82a, 82b are shown and described with respect to the use of the level indicator 20 in the first and second configurations, it should be understood that in some embodiments, one or more markers can be used to identify the appropriate position of the second end 34 of the indicator member 24 relative to the cover 56 associated with the operation of the level indicator 20 in both the first and second configurations.

[0071] It should be understood that the level indicator 20 as shown and described herein can be applicable to any suitable application. In an embodiment, the level indicator 20 can be used to monitor the position of a child safety system.

[0072] Referring Figures 4 - 5 , an exemplary embodiment of a child safety system 100 is shown. In a non-limiting embodiment, the child safety system 100 includes a support base 102 and a child seat 104 that can be connected to the support base 102. As shown, the child seat 104 is removably connected to the support base 102. However, in other embodiments, the child seat 104 can be permanently connected to the support base 102. The support base 102 can be positioned to be in direct contact with a support surface such as, for example, a vehicle seat 106, and can be attached to the vehicle seat 106 via a connector of a "Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children" such as a latch system. Alternatively or additionally, the support base 102 can be detachably coupled to the vehicle seat 106 via a vehicle seat belt (not shown) associated with the vehicle seat 106.

[0073] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the support base 102 includes a rigid body 110 adapted to support the child seat 104 thereon. Suitable materials for manufacturing the support base 102 include (but are not limited to) rigid plastics or composite materials, for example. The rigid body 110 generally includes a base seat portion 112 and a base backrest portion 114 that extends angularly relative to the base seat portion 112. Although the base seat portion 112 and the base backrest portion 114 are shown as integrally formed as a single body, embodiments in which the base seat portion 112 and the base backrest portion 114 are separate components that are removably or permanently connected together are also within the scope of the present disclosure. It should be understood that the support base 102 shown and described herein is intended to be merely exemplary, and support bases having another configuration are also encompassed herein.

[0074] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the child seat 104 that can be connected to the support base 102 is an infant child seat. The term "infant child seat" refers to such a seat as would be defined by one of ordinary skill in the art. By way of example, an infant child seat can be described as a seat for an infant or child who is too young to use a convertible child seat and can include a carrying handle to allow for portability of the infant child seat outside of a vehicle. When installed around the support base 102, the infant car seat can be configured to move relative to the support base 102, such as rotate or recline.

[0075] In such embodiments, the child seat 104 can include a seat body formed by a seat shell 120 and (in some embodiments) a seat rim 122. The seat shell 120, alone or in combination with the seat rim 122, can define a seat floor or seat portion 124 and a seat back or upright portion 126 of the child seat 104. The seat back 126 is generally arranged angularly relative to the seat floor 124. The seat floor 124 and the seat back 126 can be detachably coupled, or alternatively, can be permanently coupled. In some embodiments, the seat shell 120 can be a single substantially solid or partially hollow structure that defines the seat floor 124 and the seat back 126. One or more seat pads, cushions, textiles, etc. (not shown) can be provided in an arrangement that overlaps one or more surfaces of the seat floor 124 and / or one or more surfaces of the seat back 126 to comfortably support a child located within the child seat 104.

[0076] The bottom of the seat shell 120 may include a first seat shell rail 128 and a second seat shell rail 130 disposed at opposite sides of the child seat 104. In some configurations, the first seat shell rail 128 and the second seat shell rail 130 may have corresponding curved rocker bottoms to effect a rocking motion when the child seat is supported on a generally flat or planar surface (e.g., in a residential environment, a restaurant, etc.), thereby making the child located within the child seat 104 comfortable.

[0077] Alternatively or additionally, the child seat 104 may include a carrying handle 132. In the illustrated non - limiting embodiment, the carrying handle 132 has a generally arcuate shape, and its two opposite ends 134, 136 are respectively connected to the left and right sides of the seat shell 120 via respective attachment mechanisms (not shown). In some embodiments, the carrying handle 132 is movably connected to the seat shell 120 and / or the seat edge 122. Accordingly, the carrying handle 132 may be translated between multiple positions or angles relative to the seat shell 120, e.g., rotatable, for example to more easily access the child located within the child seat 104 or for storage purposes. In some embodiments, the attachment mechanism for attaching the handle to the seat shell 120 may include an integrated locking mechanism (not shown) to hold the carrying handle 132 in a desired orientation relative to the seat shell 120.

[0078] As described above, the child seat 104 may be connected to the support base 102 to mount the child seat 104 relative to the vehicle seat 106. However, in some embodiments, the child seat 104 may be positioned in direct contact with the vehicle seat 106. For example, the child seat 104 may be removably secured to the vehicle seat 106 via, for example, a latch or anchoring mechanism (not shown) or via a vehicle seat belt (not shown) associated with the vehicle seat 106.

[0079] Continuing to refer Figure 4 and 5 , in an embodiment, at least one level indicator, such as herein referred to Figures 1 - 3The described level indicator 20 is disposed at the support base 102 of the child safety system 100 to monitor the orientation of the support base 102 relative to a horizontal plane or relative to the vehicle seat 106. The level indicator 20 can be located at any position on the body 110 that is visible to the user. In an embodiment, the level indicator 20 is positioned such that the cover 56 and / or the end 34 of the level indicator 24 is visible at the upper surface of the support base 102, and can but need not be disposed near the edge of the support base 102. When the child seat 104 is attached to the support base 102, the level indicator 20 can but need not be visible. In an embodiment, one or more mounting features 70 of the housing 22 of the level indicator 20 can be connected to the body 110, such as at the base seat portion 112, the base backrest portion 114, or both. Alternatively, the level indicator 20 can be integrally formed with the body 110 of the support base 102. For example, the housing 22 of the level indicator 20 can be at least partially formed by a portion of the body 110 of the support base 102.

[0080] In an embodiment where the level indicator 20 is mounted to the support base 102, the housing 22 of the level indicator 20 is configured to move with the support base 102. Thus, during installation of the support base 102, as the angle of the support base 102 is adjusted, the angle of the housing 22 will change similarly. During this movement, the level indicator 20 will indicate to the user the relative position of the housing 22 and thus the support base 102 relative to the horizontal plane.

[0081] Alternatively or additionally, the level indicator 20 can be mounted to the child seat 104 of the child safety system 100 to monitor the orientation of the child seat 104 relative to one or more of the support base 102, the vehicle seat 106, and the horizontal plane. The level indicator 20 can be located at any position on the child seat 104 that is visible to the user. For example, the level indicator 20 can be positioned such that the cover 56 and / or the end 34 of the level indicator 24 is visible at the seat edge 122 or at the outer or side surface of the seat shell 120. For example, the level indicator 20 can be positioned at one or both of the seat floor 124 and the seat back 126. One or more mounting features 70 of the housing 22 or the cover 56 can be connected to the surface of the seat shell 120, such as at one side of the seat floor 124, the seat back 126, or both. Alternatively, the level indicator 20 can be integrally formed with a portion of the seat shell 120.

[0082] In an embodiment where the level indicator 20 is mounted to the child seat 104, the housing 22 of the level indicator 20 is configured to move relative to the support base 102 and the vehicle seat 106 together with the child seat 104. Thus, during installation of the child seat 104, as the angle of the child seat 104 is adjusted, the angle of the housing 22 will similarly change. During this movement, the level indicator 20 will indicate to the user the relative position of the housing 22 and thus the child seat 104.

[0083] Another example of a child safety system 200 is shown in Figures 6 - 9 FIG. Similar to the previous embodiment, the child safety system 200 includes a support base 202 and a rigid child seat 204 connected to the support base 202. The support base 202 may be removably fixed to the vehicle seat 206, for example via a latch system (not shown in the figure). Alternatively, the support base 202 may be removably attached to the vehicle seat 206 via a vehicle seat belt associated with the vehicle seat 206 or any other suitable means.

[0084] As shown, the rigid child seat 204 is connected to the support base 202. In an embodiment, the child seat 204 is permanently connected or attached to the support base 202. As used herein, the term "permanently connected" refers to an embodiment where it is not intended for the user to detach the child seat 204 from the support base 202. In some embodiments, the support base 202 may be integrally formed with the child seat. Alternatively, the child seat 204 may be removably coupled to the support base 202, allowing the child seat 204 to be separated from the support base 202.

[0085] The child seat 204 includes a seat shell 210 having a seat portion 212 and a backrest or upright portion 214 arranged at an angle relative to the seat portion 212. The seat portion 212 and the upright portion 214 may be removably coupled, or alternatively, may be permanently coupled. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the upright portion 214 and the seat portion 212 are integrally formed as a single unitary body. In other embodiments, the upright portion 214 may be rotatably connected to the seat portion 212 such that the upright portion 214 can be tilted and reclined relative to the seat portion 212.

[0086] As shown, the upright portion 214 of the seat shell 210 includes an upright support surface 220 that generally faces forward and extends from a first end or top 222 of the upright portion 214 to a second, opposite end or bottom 224. A first upright side member 226 may be disposed at a first side 228 of the upright support surface 220, and a second upright side member 230 may be disposed at a second, opposite side 232 of the upright support surface 220. Thus, the first upright side member 226 and the second upright side member 230 respectively form the left and right sides of the upright portion 214. As shown, the first upright side member 226 and the second upright side member 230 extend forward from the upright support surface 220. The first upright side member 226 and the second upright side member 230 may extend generally orthogonally to the upright support surface 220, or alternatively, may extend from the upright support surface at another angle, such as an angle greater than 90°. Thus, the upright support surface 220, along with the first upright side member 226 and the second upright side member 230, define a backrest area or upright support cavity or area for receiving the upper body of a child therein.

[0087] In the illustrated non - limiting embodiment, the upright portion 214 of the seat shell 210 includes a headrest 234. The headrest 234 is attached to or integral with the upright portion 28. The headrest 234 may be stationary, or in some embodiments, may be configured to move relative to the upright support surface 220. For example, the headrest 234 may be configured to translate relative to the upright support surface 220 between a retracted position and an extended position, thereby allowing adjustment based on the size of a child located within the child safety system 200.

[0088] The seat portion 212 includes a seat support surface 240 that generally faces upward and extends from a first end or front 242 of the seat portion 212 to a second end or rear 244. A first seat side member 246 may be disposed at a first side 248 of the seat support surface 240, and a second seat side member 250 may be disposed at a second, opposite side 252 of the seat support surface 240. The first seat side member 246 and the second seat side member 250 extend upward and form the left and right sides of the seat portion 212. The seat support surface 240, along with the first seat side member 246 and the second seat side member 250, combinatorially define a cavity or area for receiving at least a portion of the lower body of a child therein.

[0089] As shown, seat side members 246, 250 extend angularly from seat support surface 240. The angle of the first seat side member 246 relative to the seat support surface 240 may but need not be the same as the angle of the first upright side member 226 relative to the upright support surface 220. Similarly, the angle of the second seat side member 250 relative to the seat support surface 240 may but need not be the same as the angle of the second upright side member 230 relative to the upright support surface 220. In an embodiment, the first upright side member 226 and the first seat side member 246 are integrally formed, and the second upright side member 230 and the second seat side member 250 are integrally formed.

[0090] In Figures 6 - 9 the illustrated non - limiting embodiment, the child seat 204 is a convertible child seat. As used herein, the term "convertible child seat" refers to a seat that can be used in both a rear - facing direction ( Figure 7 ) and a forward - facing direction ( Figure 6 ), for example, suitable for children weighing between 5 pounds and 65 pounds and / or up to 49" in height. The convertible child seat may also be referred to herein as an upright child seat or a toddler seat. It should be understood that the child seat 204 shown and described herein is intended to be merely exemplary. When attached to the support base 202, the convertible child seat 204 can move relative to the support base 202. For example, the convertible child seat 204 can be configured to rotate, translate, and / or recline relative to the support base 102 when coupled thereto.

[0091] In an embodiment, as Figure 6 shown, at least one horizontal indicator, similar to that referred to herein with reference to Figures 1 - 3The described level indicator 20 is disposed at a support base 202 of a child safety system 200 to monitor the orientation of a portion of the support base 202. In an embodiment, the level indicator 20 is operable to monitor the position of the bottom surface of the support base 202 relative to a horizontal plane or relative to a vehicle seat 206. Alternatively or additionally, the level indicator 20 disposed at the support base 202 can be operable to indicate the position of the child seat 204 relative to a horizontal plane or relative to the vehicle seat 206. For example, in an embodiment where the child seat 204 is configured to recline relative to the support base 202 when attached thereto, a portion (not shown) of the support base 202 (also referred to herein as the "reclining portion") can move within the child seat 204 to control the tilt and recline of the child seat 204. Accordingly, the level indicator 20 can be operatively coupled to the reclining portion of the support base 202 such that the level indicator 20 indicates the recline of the child seat 204. Alternatively or additionally, the level indicator 20 can be directly mounted to the child seat 204 of the child safety system 200 to indicate the orientation of the child seat 104, such as the recline of the child seat 204 relative to one or more of the support base 202, the vehicle seat 206, and the horizontal plane.

[0092] One or more level indicators 20 can be located at any position of the child seat 204. Similarly, one or more level indicators 20 can be located at any position on the support base 202 that is visible to a user and can be, but need not be, visible when the child seat 204 is attached to the support base 202. As previously described, at least one level indicator 20 can be mounted to the support base 202 or the child seat 204 via one or more mounting features 70 of the housing 22. Alternatively, the level indicator 20 can be integrally formed with the support base 202 or with a portion of the child seat 204, such as the seat shell 210.

[0093] Although exemplary embodiments of the level indicator 20 are shown and described herein with respect to a seat assembly of a child safety system (i.e., an infant seat, a toddler seat, and a support base), it should be understood that the level indicator 20 can be used with any child furniture, including but not limited to high chairs, cradles, strollers, any type of child seat that can be used with a stroller, rocking chairs, cribs, baby carriers, or any other child furniture item configured to support a child.

[0094] The term "about" is intended to encompass a degree of error associated with a measured value of a particular quantity based on the equipment available at the time of filing the application.

[0095] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising", when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0096] Although the disclosure has been described with reference to one or more exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes can be made and equivalents can be substituted for elements of the disclosure without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the disclosure without departing from the basic scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out the disclosure, but that the disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A level indicator comprising: shell; an indicator member rotatable relative to the housing, the indicator member being biased to a rest position by gravity; and Wherein the indicator member has a light emitting visual indicator which indicates the position of the indicator member relative to the housing. 2 . The level indicator according to claim 1 , wherein the indicator member comprises a light-transmitting member and a portion of the light-transmitting member forms the luminous visual indicator.

3. A level indicator according to claim 2, wherein the light-transmitting member is an optical fiber filament.

4. A level indicator according to claim 3, wherein the optical fiber filaments are colored.

5. The level indicator of claim 2, wherein the illuminated visual indicator is disposed at an end of the indicator member. 6 . The level indicator according to claim 5 , wherein an end of the light-transmitting member is arranged adjacent to the end of the indicator member. The level indicator according to claim 2 , wherein the light-transmitting member is arranged inside a body of the indicator member.

8. The level indicator of claim 1, wherein the indicator member has a first end and a second end, and a center of mass of the indicator member is located closer to the first end than to the second end.

9. The level indicator of claim 8, wherein in the rest position the first end is disposed vertically below the second end.

10. The level indicator of claim 8, wherein the first end of the indicator member is enlarged relative to the remainder of the indicator member.

11. The level indicator of claim 8, wherein the first end of the indicator member is weighted.

12. The level indicator of claim 11, wherein the visual indicator is arranged at a second end of the visual indicator, the second end being opposite to the first end.

13. The level indicator of claim 8, wherein the indicator member comprises a weight, the visual indicator and the weight being arranged at opposite sides of a rotation axis of the indicator member, the indicator member being rotatable relative to the housing about the rotation axis.

14. The level indicator of claim 1 further comprising a pin extending from the housing and having a longitudinal axis, the indicator member being rotatable about the longitudinal axis.

15. The level indicator of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the indicator member is disposed within an interior of the housing.

16. The level indicator of claim 1, further comprising a cover connectable to the housing, wherein the indicator member is disposed within a cavity defined between the housing and the cover.

17. A child seat assembly, comprising: Seat body; as well as A level indicator is operably coupled to the body, the level indicator having an illuminated visual indicator operable to indicate a position of the seat body relative to a horizontal plane.

18. The child seat assembly of claim 17, wherein the seat body is a support base for a child restraint system.

19. The child seat assembly of claim 17, wherein the seat body is a child seat of a child restraint system.

20. The child seat assembly of claim 17, wherein the level indicator further comprises: Housing; and An indicator member is rotatable relative to the housing and is biased to a rest position under the action of gravity, the illuminated visual indicator being arranged at the indicator member.

21. The child seat assembly of claim 20, wherein the indicator member comprises a light-transmitting member and a portion of the light-transmitting member forms the illuminated visual indicator.

22. A level indicator according to claim 21, wherein the light-transmitting member is an optical fiber filament.

23. The child seat assembly of claim 22, wherein the fiber optic filaments are colored.

24. The child seat assembly of claim 21, wherein the illuminated visual indicator is disposed at an end of the indicator member.

25. The child seat assembly of claim 24, wherein an end of the light-transmitting member is disposed adjacent the end of the indicator member.

26. The child seat assembly of claim 21, wherein the indicator member includes an indicator member body, and the light-transmitting member is disposed within the interior of the indicator member body.

27. The child seat assembly of claim 20, wherein the indicator member has a first end and a second end, and a center of mass of the indicator member is positioned closer to the first end than to the second end.

28. The child seat assembly of claim 27, wherein in the rest position, the first end is disposed vertically below the second end.

29. The child seat assembly of claim 27, wherein the first end of the indicator member is enlarged relative to the remainder of the indicator member.

30. The child seat assembly of claim 27, wherein the first end of the indicator member is weighted.

31. A level indicator according to claim 30, wherein the visual indicator is arranged at a second end of the indicator member, the second end being opposite to the first end.

32. The level indicator of claim 20, wherein the indicator member includes a weight, the visual indicator and the weight being arranged at opposite sides of a rotation axis of the indicator member, the indicator member being rotatable relative to the housing about the rotation axis.

33. An article of children's furniture comprising: a main body operable to support a child; as well as a level indicator associated with the main body to identify the horizontal position of the main body, the level indicator comprising shell; an indicator member rotatable relative to the housing, the indicator member being biased to a rest position by gravity; as well as A lighted visual indicator is associated with the indicator member, the lighted visual indicator indicating a position of the indicator member relative to the housing.

34. The item of children's furniture of claim 33, wherein the item of children's furniture is a high chair.

35. The item of children's furniture of claim 33, wherein the item of children's furniture is a children's seat.

36. The children's furniture article of claim 33, wherein the children's furniture article is a crib or a carrier.

37. The item of children's furniture of claim 33, wherein the item of children's furniture is a stroller.

38. The article of children's furniture of claim 33, wherein the indicator member comprises a light-transmissive member and a portion of the light-transmissive member forms the illuminated visual indicator.

39. An article of children's furniture as claimed in claim 38, wherein the light-transmitting member is a fiber optic filament.

40. The article of children's furniture of claim 38, wherein the light-transmissive member is disposed interiorly of the body of the indicator member.

41. The article of children's furniture of claim 33, wherein the illuminated visual indicator is disposed at an end of the indicator member.

42. The article of children's furniture of claim 33, wherein the indicator member has a first end and a second end, and wherein a center of mass of the indicator member is located closer to the first end than to the second end.

43. The article of children's furniture of claim 42, wherein the first end of the indicator member is enlarged relative to the remainder of the indicator member.

44. The article of children's furniture of claim 42, wherein the first end of the indicator member is weighted.

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