Collapsible compact crib comprising miter joint
By designing a foldable frame crib with angled joints and lockable linear hinges, the problem of standard cribs being bulky and difficult to move is solved, providing a portable and safe sleeping area.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202480031874.5
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2023-05-12
- Filing Date
- 2024-05-09
- Publication Date
- 2025-12-30
AI Technical Summary
Standard baby cribs are bulky and difficult to move, making it hard for parents to provide a safe and reliable sleeping area for their children when they are away from home.
A foldable frame crib has been designed with a miter joint and lockable linear hinges, allowing the frame to switch between folded and unfolded positions, and combined with flexible materials to provide enclosure.
It achieves portability and safety for the crib, and its folding design reduces space occupation, making it easy to carry and use.
Smart Images
Figure CN121240802A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Cross Reference to Related Applications
[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 466,166, filed May 12, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The subject matter described herein relates to devices and methods related to foldable devices having a foldable frame body that can be fitted with at least one of a flexible material component and an adaptable feature for various uses, including providing at least partial enclosure. BACKGROUND
[0003] Standard infant sleepers or cribs can provide a safe and secure sleep area for a child. However, standard infant sleepers can be bulky and difficult to transport. Additionally, children often want or need to sleep away from home where the infant sleeper is stored. As a result, parents of children find it difficult to provide a safe and secure sleep area for their child when away from home. SUMMARY
[0004] The present disclosure relates to a foldable compact crib comprising an angled joint.
[0005] One example implementation of the subject matter described in this disclosure is a foldable frame configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position. The foldable frame includes the following features. A continuous rail includes a first corner joint having a first corner hinge having a first axis of rotation. A second corner joint includes a second corner hinge having a second axis of rotation. A first rigid rail is positioned between the first corner joint and the second corner joint. The first corner joint and the second corner joint are positioned at opposite ends of the first rigid rail. The first rigid rail extends along a first longitudinal axis. A third corner joint includes a third corner hinge having a third axis of rotation. A fourth corner joint includes a fourth corner hinge having a fourth axis of rotation. A second rigid rail is positioned between the third corner joint and the fourth corner joint. The third corner joint and the fourth corner joint are positioned at opposite ends of the second rigid rail. The second rigid rail extends along a second longitudinal axis that is substantially parallel to the first longitudinal axis when the foldable frame is in the unfolded position. A first segmented rail includes a first linear joint. The first segmented rail is positioned between the first corner joint and the third corner joint. The first linear joint includes a first linear hinge having a fifth axis of rotation that extends substantially perpendicular to the first plane when in the unfolded position. A second segmented rail includes a second linear joint. The second segmented rail is positioned between the second corner joint and the fourth corner joint. The second linear joint includes a second linear hinge having a sixth axis of rotation that extends substantially perpendicular to the first plane when in the unfolded position. The second axis of rotation and the fourth axis of rotation are arranged such that the second segmented rail folds at an angle sufficient to prevent interference with the first segmented rail when the foldable frame is in the folded position.
[0006] Aspects of example foldable frames configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position, alone or in combination with other aspects, can include the following. The first rigid rail and the second rigid rail are parallel to each other and parallel to the first plane when the foldable frame is in the folded position and when the foldable frame is in the unfolded position.
[0007] Aspects of example foldable frames configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position, alone or in combination with other aspects, can include the following. The angle sufficient to prevent interference is measured relative to the first plane when the foldable frame is in the folded position.
[0008] Aspects of example foldable frames configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position, either alone or in combination with other aspects, can include the following. The angle is a negative angle with respect to the plane.
[0009] Aspects of example foldable frames configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position, either alone or in combination with other aspects, can include the following. When the foldable frame is in the folded position, the first segmented link has an angle with respect to the first plane ranging from 0° to 5°.
[0010] Aspects of example foldable frames configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position, either alone or in combination with other aspects, can include the following. When the foldable frame is in the unfolded position and in the folded position, the first, second, third, or fourth rotation axes are none of them parallel to each other or to the frame longitudinal axis extending transversely to the first plane.
[0011] Aspects of example foldable frames configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position, either alone or in combination with other aspects, can include the following. When the foldable frame is in the unfolded position, the fifth and sixth rotation axes are substantially parallel to each other; and when the foldable frame is in the folded position, the fifth and sixth rotation axes are not parallel to each other.
[0012] Aspects of example foldable frames configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position, either alone or in combination with other aspects, can include the following. The continuous link is rectangular, having opposite first and second rigid links and opposite first and second segmented links, wherein the first and second segmented links have a length greater than the first and second rigid links.
[0013] Aspects of example foldable frames configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position, either alone or in combination with other aspects, can include the following. The first linear hinge includes a lockable hinge configured to be activated by a user and to allow the user to lock and unlock the first linear joint.
[0014] Aspects of example foldable frames configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position, alone or in combination with other aspects, can be combined with example foldable frames configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position, include the following. The foldable frame includes a foldable leg.
[0015] Aspects of example foldable frames configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position, alone or in combination with other aspects, can be combined with example foldable frames configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position, include the following. Each foldable leg includes the following features. A first end is attached to a continuous bar. A second end is configured to rest on a surface. A linear leg joint is located between the first end and the second end.
[0016] Aspects of example foldable frames configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position, alone or in combination with other aspects, can be combined with example foldable frames configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position, include the following. The foldable leg includes four foldable legs.
[0017] Aspects of example foldable frames configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position, alone or in combination with other aspects, can be combined with example foldable frames configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position, include the following. Each foldable leg is attached to either a first rigid bar or a second rigid bar.
[0018] Aspects of example foldable frames configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position, alone or in combination with other aspects, can be combined with example foldable frames configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position, include the following. A flexible material component is configured to reversibly secure to at least a portion of the foldable frame and provide at least partial enclosure. A foldable base is configured to reversibly mate with the flexible material.
[0019] Example implementations of the subject matter described herein are methods having the following features. Each of the plurality of legs is folded by a respective leg joint of each of the plurality of legs. The continuous bar is folded by four corner joints and two linear joints. The first linear joint is folded at an angle such that the first linear joint avoids interference with the second linear joint.
[0020] Aspects of example methods, alone or in combination with other aspects, can be combined with example methods include the following. Folding each of the plurality of legs includes releasing a joint lock by pressing a button.
[0021] Aspects of the example method can be combined with the example method, alone or in combination with other aspects, including the following. The folding the continuous rod member includes releasing the first linear joint by pressing a first button, and releasing the second linear joint by pressing a second button.
[0022] Aspects of the example method can be combined with the example method, alone or in combination with other aspects, including the following. The flexible material component is removed prior to folding the continuous rod member. The flexible material component is configured to reversibly secure to at least a portion of the continuous rod member.
[0023] An example implementation of the subject matter described in this disclosure is a foldable device configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position. The foldable device includes the following features. A continuous rod member includes a first corner joint having a first corner hinge having a first axis of rotation. A second corner joint includes a second corner hinge having a second axis of rotation. A first rigid rod is positioned between the first corner joint and the second corner joint. The first corner joint and the second corner joint are positioned at opposite ends of the first rigid rod. A third corner joint includes a third corner hinge having a third axis of rotation. A fourth corner joint includes a fourth corner hinge having a fourth axis of rotation. A second rigid rod is positioned between the third corner joint and the fourth corner joint. The third corner joint and the fourth corner joint are positioned at opposite ends of the second rigid rod. The second rigid rod is opposite the first rigid rod. A first segmented rod includes a first linear joint. The first segmented rod is positioned between the first corner joint and the third corner joint. The first linear joint includes a lockable linear hinge having a fifth axis of rotation. The fifth axis of rotation is substantially aligned with an outer surface of the first segmented rod. The first axis of rotation and the third axis of rotation are arranged such that, when the foldable device is in the folded position, the first segmented rod is substantially parallel to the first rigid rod and the second rigid rod. A second segmented rod includes a second linear joint. The second segmented rod is positioned between the second corner joint and the fourth corner joint. The second linear joint includes a second lockable linear hinge having a sixth axis of rotation. The sixth axis of rotation is substantially aligned with an outer surface of the second segmented rod. The second axis of rotation and the fourth axis of rotation are arranged such that, when the foldable device is in the folded position, the second segmented rod is folded at an angle sufficient to prevent interference with the first segmented rod. A flexible material component is configured to reversibly secure to at least a portion of the foldable device and provide at least partial enclosure. A foldable base is configured to reversibly mate with the flexible material.
[0024] Aspects of the example foldable device can be combined, alone or in combination with other aspects, including the following. The first axis of rotation, the second axis of rotation, the third axis of rotation, and the fourth axis of rotation are each non-parallel to one another.
[0025] Aspects of example foldable devices, alone or in combination, include the following. The fifth and sixth axes of rotation are substantially vertical and parallel to each other when the foldable device is in the unfolded position.
[0026] Aspects of example foldable devices, alone or in combination, include the following. The continuous bar is rectangular with opposing first and second rigid bar segments and opposing first and second segmented bar segments, where the first and second segmented bar segments have a length that is longer than the first and second rigid bar segments.
[0027] Aspects of example foldable devices, alone or in combination, include the following. The second segmented bar segment includes a locking mechanism configured to be activated by a user and to allow the user to lock and unlock the second linear joint.
[0028] Aspects of example foldable devices, alone or in combination, include the following. The foldable device includes a plurality of foldable legs.
[0029] Aspects of example foldable devices, alone or in combination, include the following. Each foldable leg includes a first end attached to the continuous bar and a second end configured to rest on a surface. A linear leg joint is located between the first end and the second end.
[0030] Aspects of example foldable devices, alone or in combination, include the following. The foldable legs include four foldable legs.
[0031] Aspects of example foldable devices, alone or in combination, include the following. One of the foldable legs is attached to the first or second rigid bar segment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0032] Figure 1 is an example foldable frame in an unfolded position.
[0033] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an example foldable frame with a flexible material attached.
[0034] Figure 3 is a side view of a leg of an example foldable frame.
[0035] Figure 4 shows an example foldable frame in a partially folded position.
[0036] Figure 5 shows an example foldable frame in a fully folded position.
[0037] Figure 6 FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of an example method that can be used with aspects of the present disclosure.
[0038] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0039] The present disclosure describes a collapsible device that can provide at least partial enclosure for one or more objects, including children or animals, and can collapse or fold into a compact configuration, thereby improving the portability of the collapsible device. In some embodiments of the present subject matter, the collapsible device can include a collapsible frame and at least one flexible material component that can be reversibly secured to the collapsible frame and can help provide the partial enclosure or enclosure. Further, some embodiments of the present subject matter can include a collapsible or foldable base that can provide support along at least one side of the enclosure provided by the collapsible device.
[0040] In some embodiments of the present subject matter, the collapsible frame can be configured to allow for various adaptable elements to be adapted to the collapsible frame. For example, the collapsible frame can include one or more legs or extensions that can be configured to permanently or reversibly adapt one or more adaptable features, such as a swing adapter or various foot adapters, thereby allowing the collapsible device to have various functionalities and characteristics, as will be discussed in greater detail below.
[0041] Further, certain embodiments of the collapsible device can include one or more joints or hinges that can allow the collapsible device to be configured into various configurations, including an unfolded and a folded configuration. Further, the joints can have various ranges of motion, including some joints having a limited or finite range of motion. Further, one or more of the joints can include a locking feature, such as a user-activated locking feature that can allow a user to lock the locking feature, such that the corresponding joint has no range of motion, or unlock the locking feature, such that the corresponding joint has a defined or variable range of motion.
[0042] The collapsible devices disclosed herein can be used for various enclosure purposes, such as for baby sleepers or cribs, bassinets, dog houses, and the like. Further, certain embodiments of the collapsible device can also be used for non-enclosure purposes, including as a platform for other products, such as a portable table, or other types of platforms. However, it is contemplated that the collapsible device can be used for various purposes, and not just limited to the examples provided herein.
[0043] Figure 1 An example of a collapsible frame 100 in an unfolded position is shown. The collapsible frame 100 is configured to be in a folded position (FIG. 2) and an unfolded position (FIG. 1). Figure 5 ) and an unfolded position (FIG. 1). Figure 1The upper portion of the foldable frame 100 may include a continuous member 102. When the foldable frame 100 is in the unfolded position, the continuous member 102 defines a plane 104. As shown, the continuous member 102 is rectangular and has opposing first rigid members 106 extending along a first longitudinal axis and second rigid members 108 extending along a second longitudinal axis. Similarly, first segmented members 110 and second segmented members 112 are opposite each other. In some embodiments, when the foldable frame 100 is in the unfolded position and / or folded position, the opposing first rigid members 106 (including the first longitudinal axis) and second rigid members 108 (including the second longitudinal axis) extend substantially parallel to each other and / or extend along the plane 104. In some embodiments, when the foldable frame 100 is in the unfolded position, the first segmented members 110 and second segmented members 112 extend substantially parallel to each other and / or extend along the plane 104. However, when in the folded position, the first segment 110 or the second segment 112 extends away from the plane 104, and / or the first segment 110 and the second segment 112 extend along different, non-coplanar planes. Figure 4 As shown, by allowing the first segment 110 and the second segment 112 to fold and bend without intersecting each other, this allows the continuous members 102 to form a compact folded position. For example, the first segment 110 can transition from an extended position to a folded position along a first segment plane coplanar with plane 104; and the second segment 112 can transition from an extended position to a folded position along a second segment plane not coplanar with plane 104 and / or the first segment plane. For example, the first segment 110 can form a folded position along plane 104 and remain substantially parallel to the opposing first rigid member 106 and the opposing second rigid member 108; however, the second segment 112 can form a folded position such that the second segment 112 is angled away from plane 104. In some embodiments, the lengths of the first segment 110 and the second segment 112 are longer than the first rigid member 106 and / or the second rigid member 108.
[0044] Each of the segmented members (110, 112) and rigid members (106, 108) is separated from the adjacent member by corner joints (114, 116, 126, 128). For example, a first rigid member 106 is located between a first corner joint 114 and a second corner joint 116. In other words, the first corner joint 114 and the second corner joint 116 are located at opposite ends of the first rigid member 106. The first corner joint 114 has a first hinge 118 with a first axis of rotation 120, and the second corner joint 116 has a second hinge 122 with a second axis of rotation 124.
[0045] Similarly, the second rigid link 108 is between the third corner joint 126 and the fourth corner joint 128. In other words, the third corner joint 126 and the fourth corner joint 128 are at opposite ends of the second rigid link 108. The third corner joint 126 has a third hinge 130 having a third axis of rotation 132, and the fourth corner joint 128 has a fourth hinge 134 having a fourth axis of rotation 136.
[0046] The first segmented link 110 is between the first corner joint 114 and the third corner joint 126. The first segmented link 110 includes a first linear joint 138. The first linear joint 138 has a first linear hinge 140 having a fifth axis of rotation 142. When the foldable frame 100 is in the unfolded position, the fifth axis of rotation 142 extends substantially (within standard manufacturing tolerances) perpendicular to the plane 104.
[0047] The second segmented link 112 has a second linear joint 144. The second segmented link 112 is between the second corner joint 116 and the fourth corner joint 128. The second linear joint 144 includes a second linear hinge 146 having a sixth axis of rotation 148. When the foldable frame 100 is in the unfolded position, the sixth axis of rotation 148 extends substantially perpendicular to the plane 104. In some embodiments, the first segmented link 110, the second segmented link 112, or both include a locking mechanism 150 configured to be activated by a user. Such a mechanism allows the user to lock and unlock the first linear joint 138 or the second linear joint 144, respectively. Any one or more of the axes of rotation associated with a joint or hinge can be angled relative to one or more other axes of rotation associated with another joint or hinge, and / or relative to the frame longitudinal axis 152. For example, the fifth axis of rotation 142 and the sixth axis of rotation 148 can be angled relative to one another, which can help ensure that the first segmented link 110 and the second segmented link 112 are not parallel to one another when the foldable frame 100 is in the folded position.
[0048] The first axis of rotation 120, the second axis of rotation 124, the third axis of rotation 132, and the fourth axis of rotation 136 partially define a transition between the folded position and the unfolded position. In certain embodiments, the first axis of rotation 120, the second axis of rotation 124, the third axis of rotation 132, and the fourth axis of rotation 136 are angled relative to one another and to the frame longitudinal axis 152, which extends transverse or perpendicular to the plane 104. The different angles allow for a more compact folded position, including allowing the segmented links (110, 112) to pivot toward the frame longitudinal axis 152 when forming the folded position.
[0049] The foldable frame includes one or more foldable legs 154. In the illustrated embodiment, four legs 154 are included; however, more or fewer legs can be included without departing from the present disclosure. For example, three legs, five legs, or six legs can be included. In the illustrated embodiment, each foldable leg 154 is attached to either the first rigid bar 106 or the second rigid bar 108; however, the legs 154 can be attached to one of the segmented bars (110, 112) without departing from the present disclosure. Further details regarding the foldable legs 154 are described throughout the present disclosure.
[0050] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an example foldable frame 100 with a flexible material component 202 attached, such as for an embodiment forming a playpen. The flexible material component 202 can have various shapes and sizes and can be permanently or reversibly secured to the foldable frame 100 in a variety of ways. Further, the flexible material component 202 can be made of one or more different materials, including nylon, polyester, cotton, any of a variety of synthetic or natural textiles or mesh, or an assembly of multiple textile types.
[0051] For example, the flexible material component 202 can be shaped and sized to be secured to the foldable frame 100 and form an at least partially enclosed or enclosed area, such as for a child or animal. Further, the enclosed area can include a foldable base 204 that can rest on the ground. The foldable base 204 can be connected to a nearly vertical mesh perimeter that rises from the foldable base 204 and extends to the continuous bar 102 of the foldable frame 100. The combination of the base 204 and the nearly vertical mesh perimeter can create an enclosed area, such as for a child.
[0052] For example, the flexible material component 202 can be assembled to the continuous bar 102 by securing one or more securing elements, such as a zipper, around at least a portion of the continuous bar 102. However, any number of various securing elements can be used, including snaps, hook and loop fasteners, and the like.
[0053] Further, at least a portion of the flexible material component 202, such as the vertical mesh perimeter, can be secured to one or more of the legs 154. For example, one or more lower corners of the flexible material component 202 can have connectors that can be fastened to the base of one or more of the legs 154. The connectors can secure the flexible material component 202 to one or more of the legs 154 by, for example, securing or sliding up the distal end of one or more of the legs 154. The connectors can also be permanently or reversibly attached to one or more of the legs 154 in a variety of ways. The connectors can also serve as feet for one or more of the legs 154.
[0054] In some embodiments, base 204 may include a pad, which may be made of a filling material to enhance comfort. For example, the pad may be made of a foam board approximately 1 inch thick, and the thickness may be approximately ¼ inch to 4 inches or more. Additionally, base 204 may include a rigid element that may be located beneath the pad during use, for example, to provide additional support for the pad. At least one of the rigid element and the pad may have one or more creases or joints that may facilitate folding or collapsing the rigid element and the pad, for example, to allow for improved transport in a compact configuration (e.g., a folding crib).
[0055] Figure 3 This is a side view of the legs 154 of an example foldable frame 100. Each leg 154 has a first end 302 attached to a continuous member 102 and a second end 304 configured to rest on a surface 306. In some embodiments, the leg 154 includes a linear leg joint 308. In some embodiments, the linear leg joint 308 is closer to the first end 302 than the second end 304. That is, in some embodiments, the linear leg joint is closer to the continuous member than the surface 306. As previously stated, in the illustrated example, each leg 154 is attached to one of the rigid members (106, 108); however, without departing from this disclosure, the legs may also be attached to one of the segmented members (110, 112). In some embodiments, one or more legs 154 extend from the continuous member 102 at an angle. Such an angle allows the foldable frame 100 to have a larger footprint and greater stability. In the folded position, the legs can pivot toward the frame's longitudinal axis 152 until the legs are substantially parallel to each other. This allows for a more compact construction of the folding position of the foldable frame 100.
[0056] Figure 4 An example foldable frame 100 in a partially folded position is shown. As previously described, the first rotation axis 120, the second rotation axis 124, the third rotation axis 132, and the fourth rotation axis 136 are all non-parallel to each other. These different angles allow the segmented members (110, 112) to fold at different angles, for example, to prevent the segmented members (110, 112) from interfering with each other during the folding operation. In the example shown, the second segmented member 112 extends at an angle relative to the first segmented member 110 during the folding operation. In other words, the first segmented member 110 can avoid contact with the second segmented member 112 during the folding operation. During the folding operation, the first linear joint 138 and the second linear joint 144 fold toward the frame's longitudinal axis 152. Figure 1 ).
[0057] Figure 5An example foldable frame 100 in its fully folded position is shown. As shown, the first linear joint 138 is folded at an angle to prevent interference with the second linear joint 144. This angle can be measured relative to plane 104. For example, this angle could be a negative angle relative to plane 104. Similarly, the segmented members (110, 112) extend at an angle to each other to prevent any interference. Conversely, the first rotation axis 120 and the third rotation axis 132 (see...) Figure 1 The first segmental member 110 can be arranged such that, when the foldable frame is in the folded position, it is substantially parallel (e.g., within 5 degrees) to the first rigid member 106 and the second rigid member 108. In some embodiments, when the foldable frame 100 is in the folded position, the first segmental member 110 has an angle of 0° to 5° relative to the plane 104 and / or the first rigid member 106. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, when the foldable frame 100 is in the folded position and when the foldable frame 100 is in the unfolded position, the first rigid member 106 and the second rigid member 108 are parallel to each other and parallel to the plane 104. The first, second, third, and fourth rotation axes can be arranged such that the first linear joint 138 and the first segmental member 110 are not coplanar with the second linear joint 144 and the second segmental member 112 in a manner that prevents interference between the segmental members. Furthermore, the segmental members can fold toward each other, that is, not directly toward the ground, but at least partially toward the frame longitudinal axis 152 in the folded position. In some embodiments, when the foldable frame 100 is in the unfolded position and in the folded position, the first rotation axis 122, the second rotation axis 124, the third rotation axis 132, or the fourth rotation axis 136 are not parallel to each other, nor are they parallel to the longitudinal axis 152 of the frame extending transversely to the plane 104.
[0058] In some embodiments, the legs 154 are also folded or collapsed in the folded position. Each leg hinge 308 divides each leg into a first portion 502 closer to the first end 302 and a second portion 504 closer to the second end. In some embodiments, the length of the second portion is substantially similar to the length of the rigid members (106, 108) (e.g., within 10%). The leg hinges 308 may be angled in a manner that prevents the legs 154 from interfering with each other when folded. For example, the leg hinges 308 may be angled inward or outward so that the legs 154 do not interfere with each other in the folded position. For example, the first portion 502 of each leg may extend at an angle relative to the frame longitudinal axis 152 in the extended configuration and may pivot toward the frame longitudinal axis 152 in the folded position (e.g., become parallel to the frame longitudinal axis 152). In some embodiments, the second portions 504 of two adjacent legs may extend substantially parallel and / or along the same or similar planes in the extended configuration, while in the folded position they may pivot toward each other and offset from each other, thereby being arranged as follows: Figure 5 The diagram shows a non-planar, side-by-side compact configuration.
[0059] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of an example method 500 that can be used with various aspects of this disclosure. At 602, each leg 154 is folded via a corresponding leg joint 308. In some embodiments, folding each leg 154 includes releasing the joint lock by pressing a button.
[0060] At 604, continuous member 102 is folded via four corner joints and two linear joints. The first linear joint 138 is folded at an angle to prevent interference with the second linear joint 144. The second linear joint 144 is folded at an angle to prevent interference with the first linear joint 138 (e.g., segmented members (110, 112) collapse and fold relative to each other towards the longitudinal axis of the frame, thereby preventing them from crossing).
[0061] The first linear connector 138 and the second linear connector 144 can be configured such that, in a folded configuration, one connector can be positioned substantially along the first plane, while the other connector can be offset above or below it to avoid interference. In some embodiments, both connectors can be located above or below the first plane while still avoiding interference with each other. In one embodiment, folding the continuous rod 102 includes releasing the first linear connector 138 by pressing a first button and releasing the second linear connector 144 by pressing a second button.
[0062] In some embodiments, the flexible material component is removed before folding the continuous rod. In such embodiments, the flexible material component is configured to reversibly engage and / or secure to at least a portion of the continuous rod, for example, by hook and loop fasteners, snap fasteners, zipper fasteners, or button fasteners.
[0063] While this disclosure contains numerous specific details of embodiments, these details should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims, but rather as descriptions of features of particular embodiments. Certain features described in the context of different embodiments in this disclosure may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented individually in multiple embodiments, or in any suitable sub-combination. Furthermore, although the foregoing features may be described as functioning in certain combinations, or even initially claimed in this manner, in some cases one or more features may be removed from the claimed combination, and the claimed combination may refer to a sub-combination or a variation of a sub-combination.
[0064] Similarly, although the operations are depicted in a specific order in the accompanying drawings, this does not mean that these operations must be performed in the specific order or sequence shown, or that all of the shown operations must be performed to obtain the desired result. Furthermore, the separation of various system components in the above embodiments does not mean that such separation must be performed in all embodiments, and it should be understood that the described components and systems can generally be integrated together into a single product or packaged into multiple products.
[0065] Therefore, specific embodiments of the subject matter have been described. Other embodiments are within the scope of the appended claims. In some cases, the operations described in the claims can be performed in a different order and the desired result can still be obtained. Furthermore, the processes shown in the drawings do not necessarily require the specific order or sequence shown to obtain the desired result.
[0066] Other embodiments may also be found within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims
1. A foldable frame configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position, the foldable frame comprising: a continuous bar member comprising: a first corner joint comprising a first corner hinge having a first axis of rotation; a second corner joint comprising a second corner hinge having a second axis of rotation; a first rigid bar member between the first corner joint and the second corner joint, the first corner joint and the second corner joint being at opposite ends of the first rigid bar member, the first rigid bar member extending along a first longitudinal axis; a third corner joint comprising a third corner hinge having a third axis of rotation; a fourth corner joint comprising a fourth corner hinge having a fourth axis of rotation; a second rigid bar member between the third corner joint and the fourth corner joint, the third corner joint and the fourth corner joint being at opposite ends of the second rigid bar member, the second rigid bar member extending along a second longitudinal axis, the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis extending generally parallel to a first plane when the foldable frame is in the unfolded position; a first segmented bar member comprising a first linear joint, the first segmented bar member being between the first corner joint and the third corner joint, the first linear joint comprising a first linear hinge, the first linear hinge comprising a fifth axis of rotation, the fifth axis of rotation extending substantially perpendicular to the first plane when in the unfolded position; and a second segmented bar member comprising a second linear joint, the second segmented bar member being between the second corner joint and the fourth corner joint, the second linear joint comprising a second linear hinge, the second linear hinge comprising a sixth axis of rotation, the sixth axis of rotation extending substantially perpendicular to the first plane when in the unfolded position, wherein the second axis of rotation and the fourth axis of rotation are arranged such that the second segmented bar member folds at an angle sufficient to prevent interference with the first segmented bar member when the foldable frame is in the folded position.
2. The foldable frame of claim 1, wherein, the first rigid bar member and the second rigid bar member are parallel to each other and parallel to the first plane when the foldable frame is in the folded position and when the foldable frame is in the unfolded position.
3. The foldable frame of claim 2, wherein, the angle sufficient to prevent interference is measured relative to the first plane when the foldable frame is in the folded position.
4. The foldable frame of claim 3, wherein, the angle is a negative angle relative to the plane.
5. The foldable frame of claim 2, wherein, the first segmented bar member has an angle relative to the first plane in the range 0° to 5° when the foldable frame is in the folded position.
6. The foldable frame of claim 1, wherein, the first axis of rotation, the second axis of rotation, the third axis of rotation, or the fourth axis of rotation are not parallel to each other or to a frame longitudinal axis extending transverse to the first plane when the foldable frame is in the unfolded position and when the foldable frame is in the folded position.
7. The foldable frame of claim 1, wherein, When the foldable frame is in the unfolded position, the fifth axis of rotation and the sixth axis of rotation are substantially parallel to each other; and when the foldable frame is in the folded position, the fifth axis of rotation and the sixth axis of rotation are not parallel to each other.
8. The foldable frame of claim 1, wherein, The continuous bar is rectangular, having opposite first and second rigid bars and opposite first and second segmented bars, wherein the first and second segmented bars have a length that is longer than the first and second rigid bars.
9. The foldable frame of claim 1, wherein, The first linear hinge includes a lockable hinge configured to be activated by a user and allow the user to lock and unlock the first linear hinge.
10. The foldable frame of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of foldable legs.
11. The foldable frame of claim 10, wherein, Each of the foldable legs includes: a first end attached to the continuous bar; a second end configured to rest on a surface; and a linear leg joint between the first end and the second end.
12. The foldable frame of claim 10, wherein, The plurality of foldable legs includes four foldable legs.
13. The foldable frame of claim 10, wherein, Each of the foldable legs is attached to the first rigid bar or the second rigid bar.
14. The foldable frame of claim 10, further comprising: a flexible material component configured to reversibly secure to at least a portion of the foldable frame and provide at least partial enclosure; and a foldable base configured to reversibly mate with the flexible material.
15. A method comprising: folding each of a plurality of legs through a respective leg joint of each of the plurality of legs; and folding a continuous bar through four corner joints and two linear joints, wherein a first linear joint is folded at an angle such that the first linear joint avoids interference with a second linear joint. Folding each of the plurality of legs further comprises: releasing a joint lock by pressing a button.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein, Folding the continuous bar comprises: releasing the first linear joint by pressing a first button; and 17. The method of claim 15, wherein, releasing the second linear joint by pressing a second button.
18. The method of claim 15, further comprising removing a flexible material component configured to reversibly secure to at least a portion of the continuous bar prior to folding the continuous bar.
19. A foldable device configured to transition between a folded position and an unfolded position, the foldable device comprising: a continuous bar, the bar comprising: a first corner joint including a first corner hinge having a first axis of rotation; a second corner joint including a second corner hinge having a second axis of rotation; a first rigid bar between the first corner joint and the second corner joint, the first corner joint and the second corner joint being at opposite ends of the first rigid bar; a third corner joint including a third corner hinge having a third axis of rotation; a fourth corner joint including a fourth corner hinge having a fourth axis of rotation; and a first linear joint between the first corner joint and the third corner joint, the first linear joint being at an angle to the first axis of rotation and the third axis of rotation. a second rigid member positioned between the third corner joint and the fourth corner joint, the third corner joint and the fourth corner joint being positioned at opposite ends of the second rigid member, the second rigid member being opposite the first rigid member; a first segmented member including a first linear joint, the first segmented member being positioned between the first corner joint and the third corner joint, the first linear joint including a lockable linear hinge, the lockable linear hinge including a fifth rotational axis substantially aligned with an outer surface of the first segmented member, wherein the first rotational axis and the third rotational axis are arranged such that the first segmented member is substantially parallel to the first rigid member and the second rigid member when the foldable device is in the folded position; and a second segmented member including a second linear joint, the second segmented member being positioned between the second corner joint and the fourth corner joint, the second linear joint including a second lockable linear hinge, the second lockable linear hinge including a sixth rotational axis substantially aligned with an outer surface of the second segmented member, wherein the second rotational axis and the fourth rotational axis are arranged such that the second segmented member is folded at an angle sufficient to prevent interference with the first segmented member when the foldable device is in the folded position; a flexible material component configured to reversibly secure to at least a portion of the foldable device and provide at least partial enclosure; and a foldable base configured to reversibly mate with the flexible material.
20. The foldable device of claim 19, wherein, The first rotational axis, the second rotational axis, the third rotational axis, and the fourth rotational axis are all non-parallel to each other.
21. The foldable device of claim 19, wherein, The fifth rotational axis and the sixth rotational axis are substantially vertical and parallel to each other when the foldable device is in the unfolded position.
22. The foldable device of claim 19, wherein, The continuous member is rectangular in shape having opposite first and second rigid members and opposite first and second segmented members, wherein the first and second segmented members have a length greater than the first and second rigid members.
23. The foldable device of claim 19, wherein, The second segmented member includes a locking mechanism configured to be activated by a user and allow the user to lock and unlock the second linear joint.
24. The foldable device of claim 19, further comprising a plurality of foldable legs.
25. The foldable device of claim 24, wherein, Each of the foldable legs includes: a first end attached to the continuous member; a second end configured to rest on a surface; and a linear leg joint positioned between the first end and the second end.
26. The foldable device of claim 24, wherein, The plurality of foldable legs includes four foldable legs.
27. The foldable device of claim 24, wherein, One of the foldable legs is attached to the first rigid member or the second rigid member.