FOLDABLE BABY CARRIER

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a device for babies or infants, and more particularly, to a collapsible baby carrier, and to methods for using and manufacturing the collapsible baby carrier.BACKGROUND

[0002] Baby carriers may include a number of carrier devices for carrying a baby. Some are used to carry the baby on the caregivers body, for example on the chest, back, hip or shoulders (typically wraps, slings, harnesses or shoulder carrier), and some are formed as a baby nest to be placed on a ground, such as the floor or in a stroller, when not being carried, and provides means for carrying the nest with the baby inside. The latter is herein after called nest type baby carriers.

[0003] There are many baby nests on the market, typically to be used for naps or resting during the day, and they may for example be placed in a crib, on the floor or in the parents' bed. Traditional baby nests typically comprise a basket or cot design having a bed with sidewalls to accommodate the baby. Most baby nests are not suitable for carrying with the baby inside and are thus not provided with carrying handles or similar.

[0004] Nest type baby carriers are designed to provide a secure sleeping or resting environment for infants / babies, typically from new-born and up to a time when the baby is more mobile and allows the baby to be carried while in the baby carrier. Nest type baby carriers are also used to carry the baby more easily and / or safely while allowing caregiver to have one or two hands free for other tasks. Moreover, the nest type carriers provides a convenient way to move the baby between various places while sleeping and without disturbing the baby. Nest type baby carriers are typically provided with carrying straps for carrying the nest with the baby inside.

[0005] CN207323162U discloses a baby nest which can be collapsed into a flat playmat. The nest is provided with carrying straps.

[0006] US2016309913 discloses an infant bed with multiple base panels and multiple side and end panels extending therefrom. Each of these panels is connected to adjacent of the panels along respective fold lines that enable the adjacent panels to be folded over on each other. By folding the panels in various ways, they can be converted from a flat configuration for use as an infant play mat to a receptacle configuration for use as an infant bed and / or to a collapsed configuration for transport.

[0007] US5573156A discloses a collapsible infant seat sling apparatus with a shoulder strap, a receptacle having a floor and sidewalls, and a resilient frame that allows it to be folded for storage and spring open for use.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide a nest type baby carrier with improved safety and / or which is easier to use. Another object of the invention is to provide an improved multifunctional baby carrier which provides various nest or mat configurations. Furthermore, it is an object to provide a nest type baby carrier which is more robust, i.e. which does not get damaged easily and / or is simpler to manufacture.

[0009] The term "inside", when used herein to describe components or functions of the baby carrier refers to the parts or surfaces of the baby carrier facing the baby, or where the baby is intended to be placed. The term "outside" refers to the parts or surfaces facing the surrounding environment, such as the ground, or space around the carrier. Thus, the side panel, the base panel, and the collapsible sections all have an "inside" facing the baby, and an "outside" facing the surrounding environment.

[0010] The terms "head end" and "foot end" are used herein to describe features and their location on the carrier relative to how the baby is intended to be placed in the carrier (e.g. with the head and feet towards the shorter ends), and will typically refer to the shorter side sections or panels at opposite ends of the carrier. In embodiments, the head end and foot end are identical. Thus, the terms shall not be interpreted restrictively, and may be understood as meaning an end which is suitable for use as head or foot end. Unless specifically stated otherwise, the foot end may be used as head end, and vice versa, although an end may comprise features which makes it preferrable for use as a head end, for example.

[0011] The terms "head end area" and "foot end area" thus refers to an area near the head or foot end, respectively, which may also include the head end or foot end.

[0012] The present invention is set forth and characterized in the independent claims, while the dependent claims describe other characteristics of the invention.

[0013] Accordingly, the present invention relates to a collapsible baby carrier comprising: a base panel on which a baby can lie, a side panel attached to a periphery of and surrounding the base panel, wherein the side panel comprises at least one collapsible section, at least one carrying strap, at least one guide, wherein the at least one collapsible section is configured to be in a raised state and in a collapsed state, wherein a length of the at least one carrying strap is slidable through the at least one guide to move the collapsible section into the raised state, and wherein the at least one carrying strap comprises a locking element for preventing reverse sliding of the carrying strap relative to the guide when the collapsible section is in the raised state. Thus, the collapsible section may be locked in the raised state by the locking element.

[0014] A collapsible, nest type baby carrier is thus achieved where it is the carrying strap that is used to obtain the raised side panel (or wall) around the base panel by pulling parts of the side panel closer to each other. The carrying strap may thus pull the collapsible section closer to the guide.

[0015] The side panel may comprise one or more side panel sections attached to the periphery of the base panel. The side panel sections may be connected to each other or to one or two collapsible sections, such that a continuous panel is formed around the base panel by the side panel sections and the collapsible sections. The side panel sections may have two side edges, a first side edge and a second side edge, at opposite sides of the attachment to the base panel.

[0016] The side panel may be configured to be in a raised state, thus forming a wall around the base panel that can prevent the baby from falling out. When the side panel is in raised state, all side panel sections and collapsible sections are in the raised state.

[0017] The collapsible sections are different from the side panel sections at least in that the collapsible sections will change its shape and its sideways extension along the outer, free edge of the side panel when moving between the raised and the collapsed state, e.g. the collapsible sections become smaller when raised for example due to being wrinkled or folded. The side panel sections will generally have the same sideways extension along the outer free edge of the side panel in the collapsed state as in the raised state. Furthermore, the collapsible sections may be collapsed by unlocking the locking element and moving the carrying strap through the guide, while the side panel sections' state is dependent on the adjoining parts of the side panel. A side panel section is only moved between raised and collapsed state due to the adjoining collapsible sections moving between raised and collapsed state.

[0018] For each collapsible section, a corresponding guide is provided and through which guide a length of a carrying strap is slidable. The carrying strap comprises a locking element for each guide it runs through. The guide may be arranged at least partly on the side panel adjacent to the collapsible section. It may further be partly arranged on the collapsible section. The guide may also be arranged entirely on the side panel section adjacent to the collapsible section.

[0019] Each collapsible section may be individually raised and collapsed, i.e. independently of the other collapsible sections. When all collapsible sections are in raised state, the side panel sections are also raised, so that the entire side panel forms a wall around the base panel.

[0020] The carrier may comprise one or more carrying straps. Each carrying strap is configured to move the collapsible section(s) to which it is connected from the collapsed state to raised state when being pulled.

[0021] In embodiments, the guide has an entrance opening and an exit opening for the carrying strap, and the locking element is configured to engage with the exit opening.

[0022] The side panel sections will be in raised state as long as the collapsible sections to which it is attached are in the raised state. If a side panel section is attached to two collapsible sections (at opposite sides of the side panel section), the side panel section will be in a collapsed state when the collapsible sections to which it is attached are in the collapsed state. Thus, it is possible to obtain a flat configuration of the baby carrier, where the entire side panel, i.e. all collapsible corners and side panel sections are collapsed.

[0023] All features described for a collapsible section, guide, or carrying strap are generally valid for all collapsible sections, guides and carrying straps present in the described embodiment, unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0024] In one aspect, the at least one collapsible section is a collapsible corner, i.e. it is arranged at a corner position of the baby carrier. One, or more, or all of the collapsible sections of a baby carrier may be collapsible corners.

[0025] The baby carrier may further comprise one or more fixed corners connecting adjacent side panel sections. The fixed corners have a generally fixed raised position relative to the base, unless being exposed to external forces such as bending the side panel section etc., i.e. it is constantly in raised state.

[0026] The at least one carrying strap may comprise two ends; a first end and a second end.

[0027] The at least one carrying strap is connected to the at least one collapsible section and may also be connected to another collapsible section.

[0028] In embodiments of the invention, one end, which may be the first end, of the at least one carrying strap, is attached to the at least one collapsible section. The second end may be attached to another collapsible section or to another location on the side panel.

[0029] In embodiments, one end, which may be the first end, of the at least one carrying strap, is attached to the at least one collapsible section and the other, second end is attached to the side panel, e.g. to an adjacent side panel section, on an opposite side of the at least one guide relative to the at least one collapsible section.

[0030] In embodiments of the invention, a section of the carrying strap is connected to the at least one collapsible section via the at least one guide, and the first and second ends of the carrying strap are attached to the carrier on opposite sides of the guide. The guide may then be arranged partly on the collapsible section. The carrying strap may extend over the collapsible section via the guide.

[0031] The carrying strap is suitable for carrying the baby carrier when all collapsible sections are in raised state and with or without a baby inside the carrier. The carrying strap may comprise a gripping section which contains an amount of slack or sagging when the collapsible section(s) to which it is attached, are in the raised state.

[0032] Preferably, the baby carrier comprises two carrying straps, each arranged on opposite sides of the base panel. Each carrying strap may be arranged so that it extends between the head end area and the foot end area of the carrier. Thus, the ends of the straps may be attached near the head end and the foot end of the carrier. In another embodiment, each carrying strap is arranged to cross over the base panel, having the ends attached on opposite sides of the base panel.

[0033] When the at least one collapsible section is in the raised state, the angle between the base panel and the collapsible section is smaller compared to when the collapsible section is in the collapsed state. In embodiments, when the at least one collapsible section is in the collapsed state, it is substantially coplanar with the base. In embodiments, when the at least one collapsible section is in the raised state, it is substantially vertical relative to the base.

[0034] The fixed corners may for example be made up of a seam connecting a side edge of one side panel section with the side edge of an adjacent panel, or it may for example comprise a section of fabric extending between the adjacent side panel sections. In the latter case, the fixed corner may be considered a side panel section of the side panel.

[0035] The side panel sections may be connected to the collapsible sections, e.g. by sewing along the adjoining side edges of the side panel sections and the collapsible sections. The side panel section will, at least partly, follow the collapsible section when it is moved between the raised and collapsed state because of the strap being pulled through the guide arranged on the side panel section. In some embodiments, the side panel section is attached only to one collapsible section, i.e. one side edge of the side panel section is attached to a collapsible section while the opposite side edge of the side panel section is attached to a part of the side panel which is constantly in raised state. In the situation where the collapsible section is in collapsed state, the side panel section will then be exposed to a bending, or twisting, such that the angle between the base panel and the side panel section increases from the raised side edge, where it may for example be 90°, towards the collapsed section, where it may be approximately coplanar with the base panel. The same situation may occur if the side panel section is connected to two collapsible sections, where one is in raised state and the other is in collapsed state.

[0036] In embodiments of the invention, one carrying strap is slidable through two different guides, each guide corresponding to a different collapsible section, and the carrying strap comprises one locking element for each of the two guides. Thus, a first length of the carrying strap maybe slidable through a first guide corresponding to a first collapsible section, and a second length of the same carrying strap may be slidable through a second guide corresponding to a second collapsible section.

[0037] The base panel may have various shapes, but preferably it has an oblong shape, i.e. a shape that is longer than it is wide, which is suitable to fit the body of a baby. Preferably it has a rectangular or oval shape, such as the typical shape of carry cots, baby nests, cribs etc. where a baby can sleep.

[0038] In embodiments of the invention, the outside of at least the base panel may comprise an easy-wipe-off fabric, a water repellent fabric, or a waterproof fabric.

[0039] The side panel sections may be configured to be able to rotate relative to the base panel about an axis parallel to the base panel, which axis may be coinciding with the outer edge of the base panel. The side panel sections may thus be attached at an edge to the periphery of the base panel and are preferably attached such that the side panel section is able to rotate relative to the base panel around an axis coinciding with the attached edge. The attachment to the base panel may for example be by a seam along the adjoining edges of the base panel and the side panel section. In another embodiment, the base panel and the side panel sections may be formed by a unitary body, wherein the side panel sections are extensions of the base panel able to fold or bend relative to the base panel to be in a raised position relative to the base panel.

[0040] The collapsible section may, when raised, form a corner with an angle shape, such as a right angle or an obtuse angle, or a curved shape. If the base is oval or elliptical in shape for example, the collapsible section may follow the curved shape of the periphery of the base.

[0041] In embodiments of the invention, the baby carrier comprises four side panel sections and at least one collapsible section.

[0042] In embodiments of the invention, the baby carrier comprises four side panel sections and the base panel comprises a rectangular shape (optionally with rounded corners), wherein two opposite side panel sections are shorter than the two other side panel sections to correspond to the shape of the base panel. The two short ends can then be referred to as the head end and foot end.

[0043] Preferably the collapsible sections are pliable or weakened such that the collapsible section may be easily manipulated into raised state by e.g. folding or wrinkling. The base panel and side panel sections are preferably stiffer compared to the collapsible sections to support the baby and to act as walls preventing the baby to fall or move out of the carrier.

[0044] The way the collapsible section is manipulated into raised state, e.g. if it is folded or wrinkled, may depend on how and where the carrying strap is attached and guided.

[0045] Since it is the carrying strap that is used to raise the collapsible section(s) and to prevent these sections from collapsing back, due to the locking element, safety is increased in that it is not possible to carry the device by the carrying strap while the collapsible section is in collapsed state. Carrying the baby carrier by the carrying strap will ensure that the collapsible sections are raised. This is an advantage compared to prior art baby carriers where raising and locking the side panel sections or corners are functions independent and separate from the carrying straps. It is therefore a risk with the prior art nest type baby carrier that one may attempt to lift or carry the baby in the carrier while a corner or a side panel is collapsed, thus risking that the baby might fall out and be injured.

[0046] The collapsible sections may be provided with one or more fold lines to provide a specific folding arrangement (e.g. one fold or wrinkling) of the collapsible section, and / or to make it easier to fold.

[0047] The size of the baby carrier is preferably adapted to fit into a carry cot of most strollers on the market. The baby can thus be placed in the carrier in the stroller, and if he or she falls asleep, the carrier can be carried with the sleeping baby to another location, for example inside the house.

[0048] The base panel, and / or the side panel sections, and / or the collapsible sections, and / or the fixed corners may be made of a fabric or mesh.

[0049] The base panel, and / or the side panel sections, and / or the collapsible sections, and / or the fixed corners may comprise padding, which may be a foam padding providing stiffness and / or a cushioning effect.

[0050] The base panel and / or side panel sections may be provided with a stiffening element, such as a stiffening plate or board. Thus, the base panel and / or side panel sections may be provided with a pocket for inserting such stiffening element, and preferably the pocket is equipped with a zipper, buttons or similar for closing the pocket.

[0051] In one aspect, the locking element is configured to engage with the guide to prevent reverse sliding of the carrying strap relative to the guide when the collapsible section that the locking element corresponds to is in the raised state.

[0052] In one aspect, the locking element comprises a catch provided on the strap and configured to engage with the guide when the collapsible section is in raised state.

[0053] Thus, when the catch is moved through and has passed the guide, it will engage with the guide, acting as a hook, and preventing reverse sliding of the strap through the guide.

[0054] In one aspect, the catch is provided by a loop section of the webbing forming the strap.

[0055] The loop may be folded against the strap. The folded loop may be attached to the strap, e.g. by a seam, to ensure that it acts as a catch on the guide, e.g. that it forms a catch that is arranged to engage the exit opening of the guide when the collapsible section is in raised state.

[0056] The loop may further be used as attachment point, e.g. for attaching accessories. It may also be used for fastening the baby carrier to a stroller, e.g. if the baby carrier is used as a soft lift for a stroller.

[0057] This type of locking element is particularly advantageous as it does not involve any added locking devices, such as plastic buckles, which is often seen in prior art baby carriers or nests. This has several advantages, such as simpler manufacturing, no hard or sharp parts, less risk of parts getting damaged and thus need for replacements, and also improved recycling of the baby carrier. Plastic buckles used in prior art needs to be separated from the carrier for recycling, and also has a risk of damage, especially as the carrier is on the floor and may be stepped on. Furthermore, this type of locking element does not produce any sound, which is an advantage as the baby carrier may be used for a sleeping baby.

[0058] In one aspect, the guide and the carrying strap is arranged on an outside of the baby carrier.

[0059] In one aspect, the length of the strap is such that when the at least one collapsible section is in the collapsed state, the strap does not contain any excess slack.

[0060] When the collapsible section is collapsed, the strap thus follows the outside of the baby carrier closely, through the guide(s) without having any section which is slack or sagging. The strap is thus located completely on the outside of the baby carrier, hidden from the inside of the carrier where the baby is, and there is no risk of entanglement.

[0061] When the collapsible section is raised from collapsed state, as the strap slides through the guide, a sagging portion arises. Thus, the strap, when the at least one collapsible section is in the raised state, will have a length which is sagging or slack, to be used for carrying. When the collapsible section is collapsed, this slack length will be reduced as the strap slides through the guide.

[0062] In one aspect, the carrier comprises two collapsible sections and a corresponding guide and locking element for each collapsible section.

[0063] The two collapsible sections may both be arranged at either the head end or the foot end. Thus, an open, collapsed head or foot end can be provided when the collapsible sections are in collapsed state.

[0064] The two collapsible sections may be collapsible corners arranged at two adjacent corner positions of the carrier. Thus, an open, collapsed side of the baby carrier can be provided when the corners are in collapsed state. The two collapsible sections may both be arranged at the head end or at the foot end, or one may be arranged at the head end and the other at the foot end.

[0065] In embodiments of the invention, the baby carrier comprises two carrying straps, each having one end attached to a collapsible section and passing through the corresponding guide. The other end of the strap may be attached to a side panel section or to a fixed corner. In one embodiment, the other end of the strap is attached to the same side panel section as the guide, at a distance away from the guide, in order to obtain balance when carrying the carrier by the straps. The two carrying straps may thus be arranged at opposite sides of the carrier, preferably at the side panel sections extending between the head end and the foot end.

[0066] In embodiments of the invention, the baby carrier comprises two carrying straps, each having both of its ends attached to a collapsible section and passing through the two corresponding guides.

[0067] In embodiments of the invention, the baby carrier comprises two carrying straps, wherein one carrying strap has both of its ends attached to a collapsible section and passing through the two corresponding guides, and the other carrying strap has both of its ends attached to a side panel section, or near or at a fixed corner at an opposite side of the carrier. The two carrying straps may thus be arranged at opposite sides of the carrier, preferably extending between the head end area to the foot end area.

[0068] In one aspect, the carrier comprises four side panel sections and between two and four collapsible sections and a corresponding guide for each collapsible section. The collapsible sections may be collapsible corners. The base panel may thus be rectangular.

[0069] In one aspect, the carrier comprises four side panel sections, four collapsible sections arranged at corner positions between the side panel sections, and a corresponding guide for each collapsible section, wherein two of the guides are arranged on one of the side panel sections and two guides are arranged on an opposite side panel section, and wherein the baby carrier comprises two carrying straps, each extending over a side panel section from one collapsible section to another and passing through the two guides arranged on said side panel section, and wherein the carrying strap comprises one locking element for each guide. Thus, for each strap, a first length is slidable through one guide and a second length of the strap is slidable through the other guide. The length of the strap between the locking elements, i.e. the gripping section of the carrying strap extending between the two guides when the collapsible sections are raised, is longer than the distance between the locations where the locking elements engage with the guides (e.g. longer than the distance between the exit openings of the guides), such that a slack of the strap is obtained, thus making the strap suitable for carrying the baby carrier. Preferably, the length of the strap is such that when the collapsible sections are in the collapsed state, the strap is taut, i.e. does not contain any excess slack or sagging portion but lies closely against the side panel section. The baby carrier may thus be collapsed into a flat play mat or changing mat, wherein the side panel sections and the collapsible corners will form an extension to the base panel. There is thus a larger area for the baby to lie and play on than when all collapsible sections are in raised state.

[0070] In embodiments, the carrier comprises two collapsible sections directly attached to each other at the head end, and to collapsible sections directly attached to each other at the foot end. The head end and foot end may be connected by side panel sections.

[0071] In embodiments, one or more side panel sections may be provided with a pocket for inserting the slack portion of the carrying strap.

[0072] In embodiments of the invention, the straps may be provided with adjusting means for adjusting the length of the strap.

[0073] The invention furthermore relates to a method of manufacturing the baby carrier according to any of the preceding aspects, comprising making the locking element from the carrying strap.

[0074] In one aspect, the method comprises: making a loop of a section of the at least one carrying strap (7), and folding the loop against the carrying strap.

[0075] In embodiments of the invention, the folded loop is attached to the strap.

[0076] The invention furthermore relates to a method for raising and locking the at least one collapsible section of the baby carrier according to any of the preceding aspects, comprising the step of pulling the at least one carrying strap so that the collapsible section is moved into raised state and until the locking element locks the carrying strap relative to guide.

[0077] In embodiments of the invention, the carrying strap is pulled until the locking element engages with the guide, and thus prevents reverse sliding of the carrying strap relative to the guide.

[0078] Optionally, the baby carrier may be retained or pushed in opposite direction of the pulling direction while pulling the strap.

[0079] The invention furthermore relates to a method for unlocking and collapsing the at least one collapsible section of the baby carrier according to any of the preceding aspects, comprising the steps of: unlocking the locking element, and then pushing or pulling the collapsible section down from raised state so that the at least one carrying strap slides through the guide until the collapsible section is in collapsed state.

[0080] In embodiments of the invention, the step of unlocking the locking element comprises disengaging the locking element from the guide.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0081] The following drawings are appended to facilitate the understanding of the invention. The drawings show embodiments of the invention, which will now be described by way of example only, where: Figure 1 is a side view of an embodiment of a baby carrier according to the invention wherein the collapsible sections are in the raised state. Figure 2 is a bottom view of the outside of the baby carrier of Fig. 1 wherein the collapsible sections are in the collapsed state. Figure 3 is a top view of the inside of the baby carrier of Fig. 1 wherein the collapsible sections are in the collapsed state. Figure 4 is a detail view of an embodiment of a locking element of a carrying strap according to the invention. Figure 5 is a side view of an embodiment of a baby carrier according to the invention comprising two collapsible sections and two fixed corners, and wherein the collapsible sections are in the raised state. Figure 6 is a bottom view of the outside of the baby carrier of Fig. 5 wherein the collapsible sections are in the collapsed state. Figure 7 is a perspective view of the inside of the baby carrier of Fig. 5 wherein the collapsible sections are in the collapsed state. Figure 8 is a side view of another embodiment of a baby carrier according to the invention wherein the collapsible sections are in the raised state. Figure 9 is a bottom view of the outside of the baby carrier of Fig. 8 wherein the collapsible sections are in the collapsed state. Figure 10 is a side view of another embodiment of a baby carrier according to the invention wherein the collapsible sections are in the raised state and the baby carrier has an oval shape. Figure 11 is a bottom view of the outside of the oval baby carrier of Fig. 10 wherein the collapsible sections are in the collapsed state. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0082] Having generally described this invention, a further understanding can be obtained by reference to certain specific embodiments, which are provided herein for purposes of illustration only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims unless otherwise specified.

[0083] Figure 1 is a side view of an embodiment of a baby carrier 1 wherein the collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d (5c, 5d not visible in Fig. 1) are in a raised state RS. Figure 2 is a bottom view of the outside of the baby carrier 1 of Fig. 1 wherein the collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d are in a collapsed state CS, and Figure 3 is a top view of the inside of the baby carrier 1 of Fig. 1 wherein the collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d are in collapsed state CS. The baby carrier 1 has a rectangular shape with four collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, the collapsible sections being collapsible corners. Each of the collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d can be individually raised and collapsed, independently of the other three collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d. The baby carrier 1 comprises a base panel 2, which in this embodiment is rectangular in shape, and on which it is suitable to place a baby. The base panel 2 has an outside, which will form the base against the floor or ground on which the baby carrier 1 may be placed, and an inside, which is the bed on which the baby can lie. The baby carrier 1 further comprises four side panel sections 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d which are attached to the periphery of the base panel 2 at outer edge 2e.

[0084] The side panel sections 3 are self-supporting, i.e. they will maintain an upright position when the collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d are in raised state RS, functioning as a wall around the base panel 2, and may also be pliable to the extent that it can be bent at least partly out of shape. For example, if one of the collapsible sections it is attached to is in raised state RS, while the other one is in collapsed state CS, the side panel section 3 is twisted along its length from a raised state near the raised collapsible section, to the collapsed state near the collapsed collapsible section. The side panel sections 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d may for example be made of fabric with foam padding.

[0085] The attachment of the side panel sections 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d should allow the side panel sections 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d to rotate relative to the base panel 2, so that the side panel sections 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d may be raised (e.g. to perpendicular to the base panel), or collapsed (e.g. flat, or coplanar with the base panel 2). For example, the attachment may include a fold line, e.g.one or more seams, which allows rotation of the side panel section 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d around an axis coinciding with the adjoining edges of the side panel section 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d and the base panel 2. The collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d are arranged between the side edges 3e of adjacent side panel sections 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, thus interconnecting the side panel sections 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d such that a continuous wall can be formed around the base panel 2 when the collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, and thus the side panel sections 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, are in the raised state RS. The collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d may be attached to the periphery of the base panel 2 at outer edge 2e. The base panel 2 and the wall formed by the side panel sections 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d and the collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d thus forms a nest which is suitable for accommodating a baby safely.

[0086] The collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d are provided with a fold line 13 (ref. Fig. 3), which provides a weakening to aid in folding of the collapsible section 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d.

[0087] The baby carrier 1 can be said to have a head end 9a and a foot end 9b, which will typically be the short side panel sections 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d of a rectangular baby carrier 1. However, the head end 9a and foot end 9b may in embodiments of the invention be identical, as is the case for the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, such that a baby may be placed with its head at either end. The baby carrier 1 of Fig. 1 further comprises two carrying straps 7, each arranged on opposite long sides of the base panel 2 on an outside of the side panel sections 3b, 3d. The carrying strap 7 may be a webbing. Each carrying strap 7 thus extends over a side panel section 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d between the head end 9a and the foot end 9b. Each end of the carrying straps 7 is attached to a collapsible section 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, here fixated by seams at fixation points 10. The fixation points 10 are here located on a mid-section of the collapsible section 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d at a distance away from the base panel 2 near the outer edge of the collapsible section 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d. The carrying straps 7 comprise a gripping section 7a which extends between the two locking elements 8a, 8b and 8c, 8d of the carrying strap 7, and which contains an amount of slack or sagging when the collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d to which it is attached, are in the raised state RS. This section is suitable to be used for gripping the carrier 1 when lifting or carrying the carrier 1.

[0088] Each collapsible section 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d has a corresponding guide 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d arranged on an outside of a side panel section 3b, 3d adjacent to the collapsible section 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d. A length of the carrying strap 7 attached to the collapsible section 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d is slidable in its longitudinal direction through the corresponding guide 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d. The guide 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d is here provided by a pocket-like structure with two openings, an entrance opening 11 and an exit opening 12 for the strap 7, thus forming a passageway for the carrying strap 7 ensuring that the strap 7 is lying closely against the outside of the side panel section 3b, 3d and routing the strap 7 in an upwards direction relative to the base panel 2 when the side panel section 3b, 3d is raised. The entrance opening 11 is here large enough to also accommodate at least a part of the folded collapsible section 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d (ref. Fig. 1), while the exit opening 12 is slightly larger than the strap 7 to allow it to pass through, and is located at a top portion (near the free edge 14) of the side panel 3, thus providing the upwards direction of the strap 7.

[0089] For the embodiment of Fig. 1, this means that the side panel sections 3b, 3d where the carrying straps 7 are arranged, each are provided with two guides 4a, 4b, and 4c, 4d, one guide for each of the adjacent collapsible sections 5a, 5b, and 5c, 5d . Each carrying strap 7 thus extends over a side panel section 3b, 3d from a first collapsible section 5a or 5 c to a second collapsible section 5b or 5d, passing through corresponding first guides 4a, 4c and second guides 4b, 4d. Each of the carrying straps 7 of Fig. 1 is provided with two locking elements 8a, 8b, and 8c, 8d (only 8a and 8b visible on Fig. 1), one corresponding to each guide 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d through which the carrying strap 7 is arranged. Each of the locking elements 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d are configured to prevent reverse sliding of the carrying strap 7 relative to the corresponding guide 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d when the collapsible section 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d is in the raised state RS. The locking elements 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d in the embodiment of Fig. 1 are provided by a loop section of the webbing forming the strap 7, ref. also Fig. 4. The loop is folded against the strap 7, and sewn to the strap 7 in a direction towards the collapsible section 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d which it is configured to lock, thus creating a catch for engaging the corresponding guide 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d. The locking elements 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d are located on the carrying strap 7 such that when the collapsible section 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d is in the raised state RS, the locking element may engage with the corresponding guide 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, preferably engaging the exit opening 12. This means that the locking element 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d will also slide within the guide 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d when the collapsible section 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d is moved between the raised state RS and the collapsed state CS.

[0090] Moving of a collapsible section 5a from a collapsed state CS to a raised state RS will now be described by way of example. A user pulls the carrying strap 7, at the gripping section 7a, such that a length of the strap 7 slides through the guide 4a. The carrying strap 7 will pull on the collapsible section 5a to which it is attached, thus moving the collapsible section 5a from the collapsed state CS towards the raised state RS. Due to the position of the fixation point 10 of the strap 7, the collapsible section 5a will fold over the side panel section 3 and may, at least partly, enter the guide 4a through entrance opening 11, as can be seen in Fig. 1. The side panel sections 3 to which the collapsible section 5a is attached will also, at least in the area near the collapsible section 5a, follow the movement of the collapsible section 5a to raised state as the strap is pulled through the guide 4a. When reaching the raised state RS, side edges 3e of the side panel sections 3a, 3b adjacent the collapsible section 5a will be lying more or less against each other. Thus, the collapsible section 5a has no (or close to no) sideways extension along the outer, free edge 14 of the side panel. Also, when the collapsible section 5a is in the raised state RS, the locking element 8a engages with the guide 4a at the exit opening 12, so that the carrying strap 7 is prevented from reverse sliding. The collapsible section 5a is thus locked in the raised state RS. The working principle is the same for the other collapsible sections 5b, 5c, 5d. One may pull on the gripping section 7a such that both the lengths of the strap 7 which are slidable in the two different guides 4a, 4b or 4c, 4d raises both collapsible sections 5a, 5b, or 5c, 5d at the same time.

[0091] As can be seen from Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, when all four collapsible sections are in the collapsed state CS, the collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d and the side panel sections 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d are substantially coplanar with the base panel 2, such that the carrier 1 converts into a flat playmat.

[0092] Furthermore, as can be seen from Fig. 2, the length of the straps 7 is such that when the collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d are in the collapsed state CS, the strap 7 does not contain excess slack, but lies tightly against the outside of the carrier 1. The gripping section 7a does thus not contain excess slack or sagging. Seen from above, as in Fig. 3, the carrying straps 7 will be hidden underneath the carrier 1, and there is no risk of entanglement for the baby.

[0093] Figure 4 is a detail view of an embodiment of a locking element 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d of a carrying strap 7 according to the invention. The locking element 8 comprises a catch provided on the strap 7 and which engages with the guide 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d when the collapsible section 5a, 5b, or 5c, 5d is in raised state RS. The catch is here provided by a loop section of the webbing forming the strap 7 which is folded against the strap 7. The fold is sewn to the strap 7 to maintain the fold in the correct direction relative to the exit opening 12 of the guide 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, where it will engage.

[0094] Figure 5 is a side view of an embodiment of a baby carrier 1 according to the invention comprising two collapsible sections 5a, 5c, the collapsible sections 5a, 5c being collapsible corners, and two fixed corners 6b, 6d (only corners 5a and 6b visible), and wherein the collapsible sections 5a, 5c are in the raised state RS. Figure 6 is a bottom view of the outside of the baby carrier of Fig. 5 and Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the inside of the baby carrier of Fig. 5, both Figures showing the collapsible sections 5a, 5c in the collapsed state CS. The collapsible sections 5a, 5c, the corresponding guides 4a, 4c and the locking elements 8a, 8c are identical as in the embodiment of Fig.1. The attachment of at least the side panel sections 3a, 3b, 3d to the base panel 2 allows the side panel sections 3a, 3b, 3d to rotate relative to the base panel 2, so that they may be raised (e.g. to perpendicular to the base panel), or collapsed (e.g. flat, or coplanar with the base panel 2). Side panel section 3c is here constantly raised as it is not attached to a collapsible section 5a, 5c. The attachment of the side panel section 3c does therefor not need to allow rotation relative to the base panel 2. The carrier 1 comprises a rectangular shape, with two short side panel sections 3a, 3c, which can be the head end 9a and foot end 9b, and two long side panel sections 3b, 3d. In the area of the head end 9a, the side panel sections 3b, 3c, 3d are larger compared to the foot end 9b, resulting in a higher wall in this area, as can be best seen in Fig. 5. The two collapsible sections 5a, 5c are located at the foot end 9b. Two carrying straps 7 are provided along the long side panel sections 3b, 3d, similar to the embodiment of Fig. 1, however, each carrying strap 7 is only connected to one collapsible section 5a, 5c, and thus comprises only one locking element 8a, 8c (only 8a visible in Fig. 5). A first end of the carrying strap 7 is attached to the collapsible section 5a, 5c, and a second end is attached to the side panel section 3b, 3d, at a location opposite the guide 4a, 4c relative to the collapsible section 5a, 5c. The carrying strap 7 comprises a gripping section 7a with slack when the collapsible sections 5a, 5c are raised, as in the embodiment of Fig. 1, however, this section extends between the locking element 8a, 8c, and the fixation point 10 where it is attached to the side panel section 3b, 3d. As the gripping section 7a is to be used for lifting and carrying the carrier 1, also with a baby inside, the location and length of the gripping section 7a, when the collapsible sections 5a, 5c are in raised state RS, should be designed to obtain stability of the carrier 1, i.e. to ensure it does not tip over when carrying, and so that it can easily be carried with the base panel 2 at least close to horizontal.

[0095] With the carrier 1 of Fig. 5, when the two collapsible sections 5a, 5c are in collapsed state CS, an open foot end 9b can be provided, as shown in Fig. 7, while the head end 9a will always be raised relative to the base panel 2, unless exposed to external forces such as bending or pressing the side panel section 3c out of its original shape.

[0096] In another embodiment, it is the foot end area with the collapsible sections 5a, 5c, which has larger side panel section 3a, 3b, 3d, resulting in a higher wall at this end. In yet another embodiment, there is one collapsible section 5a at the foot end 9b, and one collapsible section 5b at the head end 9a, located at opposite side edges 3e of the same side panel section 3b, 3d, while the two other corners 6c, 6d are fixed, so that a collapsed long side panel section 3b, 3d can be achieved. The head end 9a may also be used as foot end, and vice versa.

[0097] Fig. 8 is a side view of another embodiment of a baby carrier 1 wherein the four collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d are in the raised state RS and Fig. 9 is a bottom view of the outside of the baby carrier of Fig. 8 wherein the collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d are in the collapsed state CS. The four collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d are collapsible corners. The working principle of raising the collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d by pulling on the carrying strap 7 is the same as for the embodiment of Fig. 1 and Fig. 5, however, the guides 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d and the fastening of the carrying strap 7 are different, which results in wrinkling rather than folding, of the collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d when raised. The attachment of the side panel sections 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d to the base panel 2 allows the side panel sections 3 to rotate relative to the base panel 2, so that the side panel sections 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d may be raised (e.g. to perpendicular to the base panel), or collapsed (e.g. flat, or coplanar with the base panel 2).

[0098] As all four corners 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d and guides 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d are equal, only corner 5a will in the following be described in detail. The guide 4a is formed as a channel along the the collapsible section 5a and further along part of the adjacent side panel section 3b, at the outer, free end 14. The carrying strap 7 is attached to the side panel section 3a, at fixation point 10, and therefrom enters the entrance opening 11 of the guide 4a, passes through the guide 4a, and exits the exit opening 12, where at least a part of the gripping section 7a extends out of the guide 4a. When pulling the strap 7 at the gripping section 7a, the side panel section 3a, where the fixation point 10 is, and the collapsible section 5a, will be raised. Side panel section 3b will also be raised near the collapsible section 5a. The collapsible section 5a will wrinkle, as shown in Fig. 8, as the strap 7 acts as a drawstring. The preceding features also apply to the other three collapsible sections 5b, 5c, 5d of the embodiment of Fig. 8 and 9. When all collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d are in raised state RS, a continuous wall is formed around the base panel 2. Similar to the embodiment of Fig. 1, the gripping section 7a contains a slack when the collapsible sections 5a, 5b and 5c, 5d to which it is attached, are raised. The gripping section 7a extends between the two locking elements 8a, 8b or 8c, 8d of the strap 7.

[0099] Figure 10 is a side view of another embodiment of a baby carrier wherein the collapsible sections are in the raised state. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment of Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, however, where the base panel 2 has an oval shape such that also the carrier has an oval shape. The oval shape of the base panel 2 is formed by two straight, parallel side edges connected by semicircles at the ends, the semicircles arranged at the head and foot end 9a, 9b. The head end 9a and the foot end 9b are both provided with two collapsible sections 5a, 5b, but in contrast to the embodiment of Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, there is no side panel section 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d arranged between the collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d at the head end 9a and foot end 9b. Thus, the collapsible sections 5a, and 5c are directly connected to each other, and the collapsible sections 5b and 5d are directly connected to each other, but may, as in the previously described embodiment be individually raised and collapsed as each collapsible section 5a, b, 5c, 5d is provided with a corresponding guide 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d through which a length of a carrying strap 7 is slidable and wherein a corresponding locking element 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d is provided. Each of the two carrying straps 7 are fastened to the side panel 3 at a fixation points 10 at the head end 9a and foot end 9b. In Fig. 11, the fixation points 10 for both straps 7 coincide both at the head end 9a and foot end 9b, but they may also be located at different positions on the head end 9a and foot end 9b. The embodiment is almost similar to the embodiment of Fig 8. and Fig. 9, however, there is no side panel sections arranged at the head end 9a and foot end 9b. The side panel 3 comprises two side panel sections 3a, 3b arranged at the long, straight sides of the base panel 2 and connected to the collapsible corners 5a, 5c at the foot end 9b, and to the collapsible corners 5b, 5d at the head end 9a, to form a continuous wall around the base panel 2. There are no distinct corners with this shape. The attachment of the side panel sections 3a, 3b to the base panel 2 allows the side panel sections 3a, 3b to rotate relative to the base panel 2, so that the side panel sections 3a, 3b may be in a raised state (e.g. perpendicular to the base panel 2), or in a collapsed state (e.g. flat, or coplanar with the base panel 2), depending on the state of the adjoining collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d.

[0100] Figure 11 is a bottom view of the outside of the oval baby carrier of Fig. 10 wherein the collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d are in the collapsed state CS. The carrier 1 comprises an oval shape which is larger than the base panel 2, when all collapsible sections 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d are in the collapsed state CS.

[0101] The head end 9a and foot end 9b may be identical, such that a baby may be placed with its head at either end.

[0102] In another embodiment with an oval shaped base panel 2 as in Fig. 10 and 11, the head end 9a comprises to directly connected collapsible sections 5b, 5d, as in the embodiment of Fig. 10 and Fig. 11, while the foot end 9b comprises no collapsible sections. In such embodiment, the side panel 3 may comprise only one side panel section 3a extending from one collapsible corner 5b to the other collapsible corner 5d.

[0103] In the preceding description, various aspects of the independent claims have been described. For purposes of explanation, specific numbers, systems and configurations were set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention and its workings. However, this description is not intended to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications and variations of the illustrative embodiments, as well as other embodiments of the invention, which are apparent to persons skilled in the art to which the disclosed subject matter pertains, are deemed to lie within the scope of the present invention as defined in the attached claims.LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

[0104] Reference No. Description 1Baby carrier2Base panel2eOuter edge of base panel3Side panel3a, 3b, 3c, 3dSide panel section3eSide edge of side panel section4a, 4b, 4c, 4dGuide5a, 5b, 5c, 5dCollapsible section6a, 6b, 6c, 6dFixed corner7Carrying strap7aGripping section8a, 8b, 8c, 8dLocking element9aHead end9bFoot end10Fixation points11Entrance opening of guide12Exit opening of guide13Fold line14Outer, free edge of side panel

Claims

1. A collapsible baby carrier (1) comprising: - a base panel (2) on which a baby can lie, - a side panel (3) attached to a periphery of and surrounding the base panel (2), wherein the side panel comprises at least one collapsible section (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) - at least one carrying strap (7), - at least one guide (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d), wherein the at least one collapsible section (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) is configured to be in a raised state (RS) and in a collapsed state (CS), wherein a length of the at least one carrying strap (7) is slidable through the at least one guide (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) to move the collapsible section (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) into the raised state (RS), wherein the at least one carrying strap (7) comprises a locking element (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d) for preventing reverse sliding of the carrying strap (7) relative to the guide (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) when the collapsible section (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) is in the raised state (RS).

2. The baby carrier (1) according to claim 1, wherein the locking element (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d) is configured to engage with the guide (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) to prevent reverse sliding of the carrying strap (7) relative to the guide (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d).

3. The baby carrier (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the locking element (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d) comprises a catch provided on the carrying strap (7) and configured to engage with the guide (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) when the collapsible section (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) is in raised state (RS).

4. The baby carrier (1) according to claim 3, wherein the catch is provided by a loop section of the webbing forming the carrying strap (7).

5. The baby carrier (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the side panel (3) comprises one or a plurality of side panel sections (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d).

6. The baby carrier (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one collapsible section (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) is a collapsible corner.

7. The baby carrier (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the guide (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) and the carrying strap (7) are arranged on an outside of the baby carrier (1).

8. The baby carrier (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the length of the carrying strap (7) is such that when the at least one collapsible section (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) is in the collapsed state (CS), the carrying strap (7) does not contain any excess slack.

9. The baby carrier (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier (1) comprises two collapsible sections (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) and wherein the carrier (1) further comprises a corresponding guide (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) and locking element (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d) for each collapsible section (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d).

10. The baby carrier (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier (1) comprises four side panel sections (3), between two and four collapsible sections (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d), and a corresponding guide (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) for each collapsible section (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d).

11. The baby carrier (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier (1) comprises four side panel sections (a, 3b, 3c, 3d), four collapsible sections (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) arranged at corner positions between the side panel sections (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d), and a corresponding guide (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) for each collapsible section (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d), wherein two of the guides (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) are arranged on one of the side panel sections (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d) and two guides (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) are arranged on an opposite side panel section (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d), and wherein the baby carrier (1) comprises two carrying straps (7), each extending over a side panel section (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d) from one collapsible section (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) to another and passing through the two guides (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) arranged on said side panel section (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d), and wherein the carrying strap (7) comprises one locking element (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d) for each guide (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d).

12. A method of manufacturing the baby carrier (1) according to any of the claims 1-11, comprising making the locking element (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d) from the carrying strap (7).

13. The method according to claim 12, comprising - making a loop of a section of the at least one carrying strap (7), and - folding the loop against the carrying strap (7).

14. A method for raising and locking the at least one collapsible section (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) of the baby carrier (1) according to any of the preceding claims comprising the step of pulling the at least one carrying strap (7) so that the collapsible section (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) is moved into raised state (RS) and until the locking element (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d) locks the carrying strap (7) relative to guide (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d).

15. A method for unlocking and collapsing the at least one collapsible section (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) of the baby carrier (1) according to any of the preceding claims comprising the steps of: - unlocking the locking element (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d), and then - pushing or pulling the collapsible section (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) down from raised state (RS) so that the at least one carrying strap (7) slides through the guide (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) until the corner is in collapsed state (CS).