Highchair

Abstract

The child car seat includes at least one leg, a seat member supported by the at least one leg, and an arm bar connected to the seat member, and the tray is directly connectable to and supported by the arm bar.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 63 / 422,644, filed November 4, 2022, U.S. Application No. 63 / 486,595, filed February 23, 2023, and U.S. Application No. 63 / 583,064, filed September 15, 2023, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0002] The exemplary embodiment relates to the art of high chairs. [Background technology]

[0003] High chairs provide a convenient and safe place for babies and children to eat and spend time. Most high chairs are intended for children from about 6 months of age, when they are able to sit unassisted and eat solid foods. It is desirable to provide a high chair that can be adapted to be used by a child over several years and / or several sizes. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one embodiment, the child car seat includes at least one leg, a seat member supported by the at least one leg, and an arm bar connected to the seat member, and the tray is directly connectable to and supported by the arm bar.

[0005] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, when the arm bar is connected to the seat member, the arm bar extends across the front of the seat member.

[0006] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the arm bar includes a bumper member and a crotch member extending from the bumper member.

[0007] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, only the bumper member can be directly connected to the sheet member.

[0008] In addition to or in place of one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the seat member further includes a seat portion, a first upright sidewall, and a second upright sidewall, wherein a first leg opening is formed between the crotch member and the first upright sidewall, and a second leg opening is formed between the crotch member and the second upright sidewall.

[0009] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the arm bar is directly connected to the first and second upright side walls.

[0010] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the tray is positionable to overlap the arm bar.

[0011] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the tray further includes at least one latch operable to directly couple to said arm bar.

[0012] In addition to or in the alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the at least one latch is movable between an extended position and a retracted position, and in the extended position, the at least one latch is operable to engage the arm bar.

[0013] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the tray has a channel formed therein, the arm bar is at least partially receivable within the channel, and in the extended position, the at least one latch extends across the channel.

[0014] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the tray further includes at least one engagement tab extending across a portion of the channel, the at least one engagement tab operable to contact the arm bar.

[0015] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the at least one latch and the at least one engagement tab are aligned about the channel.

[0016] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the arm bar is permanently connected to the sheet member.

[0017] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the arm bar is removably connected to the seat member.

[0018] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the tray is supported by arm bars without being connected to the seat member.

[0019] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the tray further includes at least one rib, the at least one rib being supported by the sheet member.

[0020] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the arm bar further includes at least one slot, and the at least one rib is receivable within the at least one slot for positioning the tray around the arm bar.

[0021] According to one embodiment, a child car seat includes at least one leg, a seat member supported by the at least one leg, and a coupling mechanism for connecting the at least one leg to the seat member without the use of external tools.

[0022] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the coupling mechanism further includes a first portion secured to the at least one leg and a second portion secured to the seat member, wherein the first portion includes an engagement member and the second portion includes a groove for receiving the engagement member.

[0023] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the first portion further includes a support member attached to the at least one leg, the support member being movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position, and a biasing member operably coupled to the support member to bias the support member toward the engaged position.

[0024] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, in the engaged position, the engagement member extends beyond the surface of the at least one leg, and in the disengaged position, the engagement member does not extend beyond the surface of the at least one leg.

[0025] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the support member is rotatable about an axis between an engaged position and a disengaged position.

[0026] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the seat member further includes a horizontal seat portion, a seat back, and at least one upright sidewall, each of the seat back and the at least one upright sidewall extending from the horizontal seat portion, and the at least one leg is connectable to at least one of the seat back and the at least one upright sidewall.

[0027] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, at least one leg is separable from the sheet member without an external tool.

[0028] According to one embodiment, a child car seat includes at least one leg, a seat member supported by the at least one leg, and a footrest connectable to the at least one leg, the footrest including at least one actuator operable to adjust the position of the footrest relative to the at least one leg.

[0029] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the footrest further includes a footrest body and at least one footrest mount, wherein the at least one footrest mount is movable relative to the footrest body.

[0030] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the at least one footrest mount further includes a latch movable relative to the at least one footrest mount in response to operation of the at least one actuator.

[0031] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the at least one footrest mount is translatable from an extended position to a retracted position, and the at least one footrest mount further includes a biasing mechanism operable to bias the at least one footrest mount toward the extended position.

[0032] In addition to or in place of one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one footrest mount is movable relative to the footrest body in response to operation of the at least one actuator to releasably couple the footrest to the at least one leg portion.

[0033] In addition to or in place of one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one footrest mount includes a plurality of footrest mounts and the at least one actuator is a single actuator, each of the plurality of footrest mounts operatively coupled to the single actuator.

[0034] In addition to or in place of one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one footrest mount further includes a plurality of footrest mounts and the at least one actuator further includes a plurality of actuators, each of the plurality of footrest mounts operably coupled to a respective actuator of the plurality of actuators.

[0035] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, further embodiments include a bracket attached to the at least one leg, the bracket having at least one opening for receiving a portion of the footrest and connecting the footrest to the at least one leg.

[0036] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the at least one footrest mount further includes an engagement member receivable within the at least one opening.

[0037] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the at least one opening includes a first portion and a second portion, and the footrest is movable between the first portion and the second portion to couple the footrest to the at least one leg.

[0038] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the footrest is connectable to at least one leg in multiple vertical positions.

[0039] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the at least one leg further includes a first leg and a second leg separated by a clearance, the first leg being disposed at an angle relative to the second leg such that the clearance varies across the height of the child seat.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the child car seat includes at least one leg and a seat member supported by the at least one leg, the seat member including a seat portion and a seat back, and a seat back extension member connectable to the seat member at a position above the seat back.

[0041] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the seat member has a recess, and the seat back extension member is receivable within the recess.

[0042] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, further embodiments include at least one clip associated with the seat back extension member, the at least one clip connectable to the seat member.

[0043] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the at least one clip is permanently secured to the seat back extension member.

[0044] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the at least one clip is removably connectable to the seat back extension member.

[0045] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the at least one clip further includes an opening, and the seat member further includes a feature receivable within the opening when the seat back extension member is connected to the seat member.

[0046] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one clip is formed from a resilient material such that the at least one clip is flexible to separate the feature from the opening.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the child safety seat includes at least one leg and a seat member supported by the at least one leg, wherein the harness assembly is removably connectable directly to the seat member without the use of external tools.

[0048] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the harness assembly includes a main member including a buckle and at least one support member connectable to the main member.

[0049] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the main member further includes a clip connectable to the sheet member and a piece of webbing secured at a first end to the clip and secured at a second end to the buckle.

[0050] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the clip includes at least one prong insertable into an opening formed in the sheet member and including an outwardly extending projection.

[0051] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, at least one prong is formed from a resilient material having an outward bias.

[0052] In addition to or in place of one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the at least one support member further includes a waist strap, the waist strap including a first buckle clip disposed at a first end thereof and a second buckle clip disposed at a second end thereof, the first buckle clip and the second buckle clip connectable to the buckle, and an anchor coupled to the waist strap connectable to the seat member.

[0053] In addition to or in place of one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the anchor includes at least one prong insertable into an opening formed in the sheet member and including an outwardly extending projection.

[0054] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, at least one prong is formed from a resilient material having an outward bias.

[0055] The child car seat includes at least one leg, a seat member supported by the at least one leg, an arm bar connectable to the seat member, and a tray connectable to the arm bar, wherein the tray cannot be connected to the seat member when the arm bar is detached from the seat member.

[0056] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the tray is translatable relative to the sheet member while coupled to the sheet member.

[0057] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described herein, in a further embodiment, the tray is directly connectable to the arm bar.

[0058] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the armbar includes a plurality of adjustment ribs and the tray includes a latch having a plurality of slots, at least one of the plurality of adjustment ribs being receivable within at least one of the plurality of slots.

[0059] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the arm bar includes at least one arm bar mount configured to couple the arm bar to the seat member.

[0060] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one arm bar mount includes a protrusion, the seat member includes an opening, and the protrusion is receivable within the opening.

[0061] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the seat member includes at least one sidewall, and the at least one arm bar mount includes an engagement feature configured to abut a lower surface of the sidewall.

[0062] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the arm bar is slidably receivable about the seat member.

[0063] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, when the arm bar is connected to the seat member, the arm bar extends across the front of the seat member.

[0064] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the arm bar includes a bumper member and a crotch member extending from the bumper member.

[0065] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, only the bumper member can be directly connected to the sheet member.

[0066] According to one embodiment, a child car seat includes at least one leg, a seat member supported by the at least one leg, an arm bar connectable to the seat member, and a tray connectable to the arm bar, the tray being movable relative to the arm bar between a first position and a second position while connected to the arm bar.

[0067] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the tray is translatable between the first position and said second position.

[0068] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described herein, in a further embodiment, the tray is directly connectable to the arm bar.

[0069] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the arm bar includes a lower surface and the tray includes a latch, the latch having an engagement feature positionable in contact with the lower surface to couple the tray to the arm bar.

[0070] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the armbar includes a plurality of adjustment ribs and the latch has a plurality of slots, at least one of the plurality of adjustment ribs being receivable within at least one of the plurality of slots in at least one of the first position and the second position.

[0071] In addition to or in place of one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the arm bar includes a bumper member and a crotch member extending from the bumper member. The bumper member includes a side surface, and the plurality of adjustment ribs are formed on the side surface.

[0072] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the arm bar is slidably receivable in the front portion of the seat member.

[0073] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the arm bar includes at least one arm bar mount configured to couple the arm bar to the seat member.

[0074] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one arm bar mount includes a protrusion, the seat member includes an opening, and the protrusion is receivable within the opening.

[0075] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in a further embodiment, the seat member includes at least one sidewall, and the at least one arm bar mount includes an engagement feature positionable in contact with a lower surface of the at least one sidewall.

[0076] The following description should not be considered limiting in any sense.With reference to the accompanying drawings, like elements are numbered alike. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0077] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a child car seat according to one embodiment; [Figure 2] 2 is an exploded view of the child car seat of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a perspective view of a child car seat including an arm bar, according to one embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] 1 is an exploded perspective view of a child car seat including arm bars, according to one embodiment. FIG. [Figure 5A] FIG. 4 is a side view of the child car seat of FIG. 3 according to one embodiment. [Figure 5B] FIG. 4 is a detailed side view of the child car seat of FIG. 3 according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 12 is a bottom perspective view of a tray connected to the arm bars of a child car seat, according to one embodiment. [Figure 7A]FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the tray of FIG. 6 in an unlatched position, according to one embodiment. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the tray of FIG. 6 in a latched position, according to one embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a side view of a child car seat during tray installation, according to one embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of the joint between the tray and arm bars of a child car seat, according to one embodiment. [Figure 10A] FIG. 10 is a bottom view of a tray connected to an arm bar in a latched position, according to one embodiment. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B is a bottom view of the tray of FIG. 10A in an unlatched position, according to one embodiment. [Figure 11A] FIG. 10B is a perspective bottom view of the tray of FIG. 10A in a latched position, according to one embodiment. [Figure 11B] FIG. 10C is a perspective bottom view of the tray of FIG. 10B in an unlatched position, according to one embodiment. [Figure 11C] FIG. 10B is a transparent perspective view of the tray of FIG. 10A in a latched position, according to one embodiment. [Figure 12A] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a tray during tray installation, according to one embodiment. [Figure 12B] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an arm bar during tray installation, according to one embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a side view of a child car seat during tray installation, according to one embodiment. [Figure 14] 1 is an exploded view of a seat member and a seat back extension member of a child safety seat according to one embodiment. FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a bottom perspective view of a child car seat according to one embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a bottom perspective view of a seat back of a seat member according to one embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a seat back of a seating member according to one embodiment. [Figure 18A] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a leg and seat member of a child safety seat according to one embodiment. [Figure 18B] 18B is another exploded perspective view of the leg and seat member of FIG. 18A according to one embodiment. [Figure 19A] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a leg attached to a seat member of a child safety seat according to one embodiment. [Figure 19B] FIG. 19B is a detailed view of a linkage mechanism connecting the leg and seat members of FIG. 19A, according to one embodiment. [Figure 20A] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a leg when connected to a sheet member according to one embodiment. [Figure 20B] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a leg according to one embodiment. [Figure 20C] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a leg engaging a seat member and connected to the seat member via a linkage mechanism according to one embodiment. [Figure 21A] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a child car seat including a harness assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 21B] FIG. 21B is a rear perspective view of the child car seat of FIG. 21A, according to one embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 21B is a detailed perspective view of the harness assembly of FIG. 21A according to one embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the main components of a harness assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a clip of a harness assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 25A] 1 is a perspective view of a child car seat with a footrest in a first position according to one embodiment. FIG. [Figure 25B] 1 is a perspective view of a child car seat with a footrest in a second position according to one embodiment. FIG. [Figure 26] 1 is a front view of a child car seat having a footrest movable between a first position and a second position, according to one embodiment. [Figure 27] FIG. 1 is a bottom perspective view of a footrest according to one embodiment. [Figure 28] FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of a footrest according to another embodiment. [Figure 29]FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a footrest and legs of a child safety seat according to one embodiment. [Figure 30] FIG. 19 is another exploded perspective view of the footrest and leg of FIG. 18, according to one embodiment. [Figure 31] FIG. 1 is a bottom perspective view of a foot rest attached to the legs of a child car seat, according to one embodiment. [Figure 32] FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a footrest of a child safety seat, according to one embodiment. [Figure 33] FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of a footrest according to another embodiment. [Figure 34] FIG. 34 is a bottom perspective view of the footrest of FIG. 33 according to one embodiment. [Figure 35] FIG. 34 is an exploded perspective view of the footrest of FIG. 33 according to one embodiment. [Figure 36] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a leg including a height adjustment channel according to one embodiment. [Figure 37] FIG. 37 is a detailed perspective view of the height adjustment channel of FIG. 36, according to one embodiment. [Figure 38] FIG. 38 is an exploded perspective view of the height adjustment channel of FIG. 37, according to one embodiment. [Figure 39] FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the height adjustment channel of FIG. 37, according to one embodiment. [Figure 40] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a footrest engaged with a height adjustment channel, according to one embodiment. [Figure 41] 10 illustrates a process for connecting a footrest mount to a height adjustment channel, according to one embodiment. [Figure 42] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the interior of a footrest body according to one embodiment. [Figure 43] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a footrest mount according to one embodiment. [Figure 44] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a footrest body according to one embodiment. [Figure 45] FIG. 10 is a detailed perspective view of a mechanism for moving the footrest mount relative to the footrest body, according to one embodiment. [Figure 46] FIG. 46 is a perspective view of the slide block of FIG. 45 according to one embodiment. [Figure 47] 10 illustrates a process for removing the footrest mount from the height adjustment channel, according to one embodiment. [Figure 48] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a child car seat according to another embodiment. [Figure 49] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a rear leg connected to a seat member according to one embodiment. [Figure 50A] FIG. 50 is an exploded perspective view of the rear legs and seat member shown in FIG. 49. [Figure 50B] FIG. 50 is an exploded perspective view of the rear legs and seat member shown in FIG. 49. [Figure 51] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of a coupling mechanism according to one embodiment. [Figure 52A] FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of the rear legs connected to the seat member. [Figure 52B] FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of the rear legs connected to the seat member. [Figure 53A] FIG. 52B is a cross-sectional view of the rear leg and seat member shown in FIG. 52A. [Figure 53B] FIG. 52C is a cross-sectional view of the rear leg and seat member shown in FIG. 52B. [Figure 54] FIG. 10 is a partially exploded perspective view of a child car seat according to another embodiment. [Figure 55] FIG. 55 is an exploded view of the arm bar of FIG. 54 according to one embodiment. [Figure 56] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a child car seat during arm bar installation, according to one embodiment. [Figure 57] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a child car seat and arm bar prior to installation of the arm bar on the child car seat, according to one embodiment. [Figure 58] FIG. 58 is a detailed view of the joint between the arm bar and seat member of the child car seat of FIG. 57, according to one embodiment. [Figure 59] FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of a child car seat with an arm bar connected thereto, according to one embodiment. [Figure 60]FIG. 10 is a detailed perspective view of the joint between the arm bar and seat member of a child safety seat, according to one embodiment. [Figure 61] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a child car seat having arm bars connected to a seat member according to one embodiment. [Figure 62A] FIG. 62 is a cross-sectional view of the arm bar of FIG. 61 according to one embodiment. [Figure 62B] FIG. 62 is a cross-sectional view of an arm bar attached to the sheet member of FIG. 61, according to one embodiment. [Figure 63] FIG. 10 is a partially exploded view of a child car seat according to another embodiment. [Figure 64] FIG. 64 is a detailed perspective view of the joint between the tray and arm bars of the child car seat of FIG. 63, according to one embodiment. [Figure 65A] FIG. 1 is a side view of a child car seat with a tray installed in a first position, according to one embodiment. [Figure 65B] FIG. 10 is a side view of a child car seat with the tray installed in a second position, according to one embodiment. [Figure 66A] This is an example of a child car seat configured as a booster seat. [Figure 66B] This is an example of a child car seat configured as a youth seat. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0078] A detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and method is presented herein by way of example, and not limitation, with reference to the drawings.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 1 , an example of a child car seat 20 is shown. As shown, the child car seat 20 includes a seat member 22 and at least one leg 24 for resting the child car seat 20 on a support surface, such as a floor. The seat member 22 includes a generally horizontally oriented seat portion 26 and at least one upright sidewall, such as first and second upright sidewalls 28, disposed on opposite sides of the seat portion. A seat back 30 may be connected to at least one of the horizontal seat portion 26 and the upright sidewall 28. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the vertical height of the seat back 30 is the same as the vertical height of one or both of the first and second upright sidewalls 28. However, embodiments in which the seat back 30 extends vertically beyond the first and second upright sidewalls 28 are also contemplated herein. In one embodiment, the seat member 22, including the seat portion 26, the seat back 30, and the upright sidewall 28, are formed as a single, integral component, such as by being molded from a plastic or composite material. However, embodiments in which at least a portion of the sheet member 22 is formed as a separate component permanently or removably connected to the remainder of the sheet member 22 are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0080] The seat portion 26, upright sidewalls 28, and seat back 30 of the seat member 22 cooperate to define a generally hollow interior 32. Additionally, a front portion 34 of the seat member 22 is open to accommodate a child's legs when the child is seated within the hollow interior 32. In one embodiment, the seat member 22 is intended for use by a toddler or infant who is able to support themselves in an upright position, e.g., a child typically six months of age or older. Thus, the seat member 22 is suitable for receiving a child seated in contact with the seat portion 26, with the child's back at least partially supported by the seat back 30.

[0081] 1 and 2, the seat member 22 is supported by a plurality of legs 24 spaced apart from one another. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the legs 24 are positioned approximately adjacent to each corner of the seat member 22. Thus, as shown, the child seat 20 includes a first front right leg 24a, a second front left leg 24b, a third rear right leg 24c, and a fourth rear left leg 24d. In one embodiment, each of the plurality of legs 24 may be substantially identical. However, in other embodiments, the configurations of the legs 24 may be different. For example, the rear legs 24c and 24d may have a first configuration, and the front legs 24a and 24b may have a second configuration that is different from the first configuration. For example, the overall cross-sectional shape and size of the front legs 24a and 24b and the rear legs 24c and 24d appear identical, but the axial length of the rear legs 24c and 24d is longer than the axial length of the front legs 24a and 24b.

[0082] A first end 36 of each of the front legs 24a, 24b and rear legs 24c, 24d is configured to contact a support surface, such as a floor, to support the child seat 20 in an upright configuration. As shown, a second, opposite end 38 of each of the legs 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d is secured to a corresponding portion of the seat member 22.

[0083] In one embodiment, the child car seat 20 is configured as a high chair. Referring to FIGS. 3-5B, in embodiments in which the child car seat 20 is a high chair, the arm bars 40 may be connected to the child car seat 20, for example, to the seat member 22. In one embodiment, the arm bars 40 are permanently connected to the arm bars 40. As used herein, "permanently connected" is intended to describe an embodiment in which the arm bars 40 are not intended to be removed from the seat member 22 by a user. Such a connection may be formed by rivets, molding, or another suitable connection mechanism. In another embodiment, the arm bars 40 are removably connected to the seat member 22. In such an embodiment, the arm bars 40 may be connected to the child car seat 20 by a user if the child car seat is for a small infant, or may be removed from the child car seat if the seat member 22 is for an older toddler or child. This connection between the arm bars and the seat member 22 may be formed by fasteners, a snap-fit ​​connection, or another suitable connection mechanism, as described in more detail below.

[0084] As shown, the arm bars 40 are intended to form a barrier extending across at least a portion, and in some embodiments the entire front portion 34, of the seat member 22, thereby restricting a child's movement through the front portion 34 of the seat member 22. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the arm bars 40 include an integrally formed bumper member 42 and a crotch member 44 extending downwardly from the bumper member 42. However, embodiments in which the bumper member 42 and the crotch member 44 are separable from one another are also contemplated herein. The arm bars 40 can cooperate with the front portion 34 of the seat member 22 to define first leg openings 46a and separate or substantially separate second leg openings 46b located on opposite sides of the crotch member 44.

[0085] The arm bar 40 may be connected to the seat member 22 via at least one arm bar mount 48. As best shown in FIG. 4 , in one embodiment, a first arm bar mount 48 is disposed at a first end 50 of the bumper member 42 and a second arm bar mount 48 is disposed at a second end 52 of the bumper member 42. While the first and second arm bar mounts 48 are shown as separate components connectable to the arm bar 40 via one or more fasteners or other couplers, embodiments in which the arm bar mounts 48 are permanently attached to or integrally formed with the arm bar 40 are also within the scope of this disclosure. For example, the arm bar mount may be an injection molded part that is insert molded into the arm bar 40. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the crotch member 44 of the arm bar 40 is not itself configured to couple to the seat member 22. Rather, the crotch member 44 is positioned in a desired position by the connection between the bumper member 42 and the seat member 22 via one or more arm bar mounts 48. However, embodiments in which a portion of the crotch member 44 is also connectable to the seat member 22 are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0086] At least one arm bar mount 48 is receivable within a corresponding opening or cavity formed in a portion of the seat member. For example, a first arm bar mount 48 may be slidably and / or rotatably received within a first opening 54a formed in the front face of the first upright side wall 28, and a second arm bar mount 48 may be slidably and / or rotatably received within a second opening 54b formed in the front face of the second upright side wall 28.

[0087] An example of an arm bar mount 48 installed within a corresponding opening is shown in FIGS. 5A-5B. As shown, each arm bar mount 48 may include a body 56 having a first end 58 connectable to the arm bar 40 and a second end 60 connectable to the seat member 22. A gap 62 extends along a portion of the length of the body 56, such that the body 56 includes a primary finger 64 and a secondary finger 66 at its second end 60. The primary finger 64 and secondary finger 66 are connected to each other at the first end 58 of the body 56 but are separated from each other along the length of the gap 62. The gap 62 may have a non-linear configuration, or alternatively, may have a linear configuration. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the gap 62 includes a first linear portion and a second arcuate or curved portion disposed at the second end 60 of the body 56. However, gaps 62 having any suitable configuration are contemplated herein. As such, the resulting primary and secondary fingers 64, 66 may have any suitable configuration. In one embodiment, the secondary fingers 66 are flexible or bendable relative to the primary fingers 64, such as when installing and removing the arm bar mount 48 from the sheet member 22.

[0088] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the primary fingers 64 extend axially beyond the secondary fingers 66. Thus, when the armbar mount 48 is installed within the openings 54a, 54b, the second ends of the primary fingers 64 are configured to engage and rest on ledges 68 formed in the openings 54a, 54b. This engagement between the primary fingers 64 and the ledges 68 is configured to resist rotation of the armbar 40 and reduce stress on the secondary fingers 66. For example, referring to the orientation of the armbar 40 in FIG. 5A , an upward force applied to the armbar 40 can be transferred to the engagement between the primary fingers 64 and the ledges 68 rather than being transferred to the secondary fingers 66.

[0089] To connect the arm bar 40 to the sheet member 22, at least one arm bar mount 48 is inserted into at least one opening 54a, 54b formed around the sheet member 22. When the arm bar mount 48 is slidably inserted into the opening 54a, 54b, the secondary fingers 66 are configured to bend toward the primary fingers 64. As shown in FIG. 5B, when the arm bar mount 48 reaches a fully inserted position, a portion of the secondary fingers 66 may be disposed outside the sheet member 22. Once outside the sheet member 22, the secondary fingers 66 are no longer constrained by the overall height of the openings 54a, 54b and can therefore be biased toward their original position. In one embodiment, the secondary fingers 66 include notches 70 configured to cooperate with the surface of the sheet member 22 to limit lateral movement of the arm bar 40 away from the sheet member 22. To separate the arm bar 40 from the sheet member 22, an upward force, designated F1, is applied to the exposed portion of the secondary fingers 66. This force causes the secondary fingers 66 to bend toward the primary fingers 64, aligning both the primary and secondary fingers 64, 66 of the arm bar mount 48 with and removing them from the openings 54a, 54b. The arm bar mount 48 may comprise a flexible material such as, for example, an engineering resin or a thermoplastic material.

[0090] The tray 80 may be attachable to a portion of the child safety seat 20. The tray 80 may have a generally flat upper surface 82 configured to support items, such as food, in a location that is easily accessible to an occupant of the seat member 22. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the tray 80 is positionable to overlap the upper surface 72 of the arm bar 40. While a portion of the tray 80 may contact or abut an adjacent surface of the seat member 22 (e.g., the front portion of the upright side wall 28), the tray 80 is not configured to be coupled to or supported by any portion of the seat member 22. As used herein, the term "couple" is intended to refer to a mechanical connection or fastening that limits relative movement between two or more components in at least one direction. Rather, in one embodiment, the tray 80 is configured only to be directly coupled to or secured to the arm bar 40. Thus, in one embodiment, the tray 80 cannot be connected to the child safety seat 20 if the arm bar 40 is not connected to the child safety seat 20.

[0091] As best shown in FIGS. 7A-7B , the underside 86 of the tray 80 may be formed with a groove or channel 84 having a shape complementary to the contour of a portion of the arm bar 40 (e.g., the upper surface of the bumper member 42). Thus, when the tray 80 is connected to the child safety seat 20, at least a portion of the arm bar 40 is disposed within the channel 84. With continued reference to FIGS. 7A-7B , in the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, one or more engagement tabs 88 protrude from a rear edge 90 of the channel 84 and extend across a portion of the width of the channel 84. While two engagement tabs 88 are shown, it should be understood that embodiments including a single tab or three or more tabs are also contemplated herein. However, in other embodiments, such as those shown in FIGS. 10A-11C , the tray 80 need not include an engagement tab disposed adjacent to the channel 84.

[0092] The tray 80 includes at least one latch 92 configured to connect the tray 80 to a portion of the arm bar 40. As shown, the at least one latch 92 is positioned adjacent a leading edge 94 of the channel 84 and is positioned to extend across a portion of the width of the channel 84. The at least one latch 92 may, but is not necessarily aligned with the at least one engagement tab 88. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the at least one latch 92 includes a first latch and a second latch configured to engage the bumper member 42 of the arm bar 40 to couple the tray 80 to the bumper member 42.

[0093] At least one latch 92 may be movable relative to the tray 80 in response to actuation of an actuator 96. In one embodiment, a single actuator 96 may be operatively coupled to multiple latches 92. As shown, when the actuator 96 is depressed or actuated, for example, via a force indicated by arrow F2, both the first and second latches 92 are configured to rotate about their respective axes from a first extended position ( FIG. 7A ), in which the latches 92 extend substantially across the channel 84, to a second retracted position ( FIG. 7B ), in which the latches 92 minimally overlap the channel 84. In the non-limiting embodiment shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B , the first and second latches 92 are configured to rotate inward. However, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A-11C , the latches 92 are configured to rotate outward in response to actuation of the actuator 96.

[0094] Continuing with reference to FIGS. 10A-11C, in one embodiment, the actuator 96 is part of an actuation assembly that includes a drive gear 97. As best shown in FIGS. 11A-11C, the drive gear 97 includes a plurality of first teeth 99, and the edge of the actuator 96 facing the drive gear 97 includes a plurality of second teeth 101. The first teeth 99 can mesh with the second teeth 101, such that linear translation of the actuator 96 causes the drive gear 97 to rotate about its axis, similar to a rack-and-pinion configuration. A driven gear 103, including a plurality of third teeth 105, also meshes with the second teeth 101 of the drive gear 97. While the driven gear 103 is shown as a separate component coaxially mounted with the latch 92, in other embodiments, the plurality of third teeth 105 may be formed directly on the body of the latch 92, such that the latch itself functions as the driven gear 103.

[0095] Also contemplated herein are embodiments in which each of the latches 92 is independently movable relative to the tray 80, for example, via a respective actuator. Additionally, while the latches 92 are illustrated and described herein as rotating between extended and retracted positions, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the latches 92 may alternatively or additionally be configured to translate or slide relative to the tray 80.

[0096] In one embodiment, a biasing member 98 (see FIGS. 7A and 11A-11C), such as a torsion spring, is coupled to each latch 92 and is operable to bias at least one latch 92 toward an extended position to facilitate engagement with the arm bar 40. In such an embodiment, when at least one actuator 96 is released, at least one latch 92 associated with the at least one actuator 96 is biased by the corresponding biasing member 98 back to the extended position.

[0097] During installation of the tray 80, a user operates at least one actuator 96 associated with one or more latches 92 to retract the latches 92, such as by applying a force F2 to the actuator 96. While holding the actuator 96 in the actuated position, the tray 80 can be placed on the upper surface 72 of the arm bar 40. As best shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 , in one embodiment, a front 100 of the tray 80 is lower relative to a rear 102 of the tray 80 when placed around the arm bar 40 to facilitate positioning of the engagement tabs 88 against the lower surface 74 of the bumper member 42. Once engaged, the front 100 of the tray 80 can be rotated upward to a generally horizontal configuration, and the actuator 96 can be released. Releasing the actuator 96 biases the latches 92 to an extended position, resulting in a portion of each of the latches 92 overlapping the lower surface 74 of the bumper member 42. This overlapping engagement between the underside 74 of the bumper member 42 and the at least one latch 92 and at least one engagement tab 88 extending from the tray 80 limits movement of the arm bar 40 and, therefore, the tray 80 relative to the seat member 22.

[0098] 11A-11C and with further reference to FIGS. 12A-13, the tray 80 may include at least one rib 107, for example, extending from its lower surface 86. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the tray 80 includes a first rib 107 disposed near a first side of the rear 102 of the tray 80 and a second rib 107 disposed near a second side of the rear of the tray 80. The contours of the ribs 107 may be generally complementary to the contours of adjacent surfaces of the seat member 22, such as the adjacent surfaces of the upright sidewalls 28. In one embodiment, at least one slot 109 corresponding to each rib 107 may be formed in the bumper member 42 of the arm bar 40 to guide the tray 80 into a seating position along the front of the left and right upright sidewalls 28 of the seat member 22. In such an embodiment, during installation of the tray 80, a user may first lift the front 100 of the tray 80 above the rear 102 of the tray 80 to facilitate receiving the ribs 107 within the slots 109. Once engaged, the front 100 of the tray 80 may be rotated downward to seat the arm bar 40 within the channel 84. The actuator 96 may then be released to rotate the latch 92 to overlap and engage the underside 74 of the bumper member 42. Positioning the ribs 107 of the tray 80 within the slots 109 of the arm bar 40 may help align the tray with the seat member 22 and secure the tray 80 to the arm bar 40.

[0099] 54-61, another example of an arm bar 500 connectable to the seat member 22 of the child car seat 20 is shown. Similar to the previous embodiment, the arm bar 500 includes a bumper member 502 and a crotch member 504 extending downwardly from the bumper member 502. The arm bar 500 can cooperate with the front portion 34 of the seat member 22 to define first leg openings 46a located on either side of the crotch member 44 and a separate or substantially separate second leg opening 46b.

[0100] The arm bar 500 may be formed as a single, integral body. In other embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 49, the arm bar 500 may be an assembly. As shown, the first part 503 includes the crotch member 504 and may also form a portion of the bumper member 502, such as the bottom and sides. The second part 505 may be disposed on the top surface of the first part 503 and form the top surface of the bumper member 502. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the first part 503 and the second part 505 may be connected via, for example, one or more fasteners. However, arm bar assemblies having any suitable configuration are within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, arm bar assemblies in which the first part 503 includes part or all of the bumper member 502 and the second part 505 includes part or all of the crotch member 504 are contemplated herein. Furthermore, although the parts of the assembly are described as being fixed together, it should be understood that any suitable connection, such as a snap fit, adhesive, or other quick connect mechanism, may be used to connect the parts.

[0101] The arm bar 500 may be connectable to the seat member 22 via at least one arm bar mount. As best shown in FIGS. 56-58 , in one embodiment, at least one first arm bar mount is associated with a bumper member 502. For example, first arm bar mounts 508 (see FIGS. 57 and 58 ) may be disposed at opposite ends 510 of the bumper member 502. Each first arm bar mount 508 may include a tab or protrusion receivable within a corresponding opening 512 formed in an adjacent portion of the seat member 22 (e.g., a portion of a side wall of the seat member). When the first arm bar mount 508 is disposed within the opening 512, the end 510 of the bumper member 502 may be positioned directly adjacent to, and in some embodiments, in contact with, a raised edge of the side wall 28.

[0102] The arm bar 500 may alternatively or additionally include at least one second arm bar mount 514 operable to selectively couple the arm bar 500 to the sheet member 22. In one embodiment, the at least one second arm bar mount 514 includes a flap or clip operable to selectively couple to a portion of the sheet member 22 (see FIGS. 56, 59, and 60). As shown, each second arm bar mount 514 is insertable into a corresponding opening 516 formed in the ledge 29 of the side wall 28 of the sheet member 22. A hook or other engagement feature 518 (see FIG. 60) may be formed on the distal end 520 of the second arm bar mount 514. When the arm bar 500 is installed about the sheet member 22, for example, by inserting the second arm bar mount 514 into the corresponding opening 516, the engagement feature 518 is configured to abut a bottom surface 522 of the side wall 28 located adjacent the opening 516. Engagement of the bottom surface 522 of the ledge 29 of the side wall 28 with the engagement feature 518 limits vertical movement of the arm bar 500 away from the seat member 22 .

[0103] By forming the second armbar mount 514 from a resilient material, at least a portion of the second armbar mount 514 (e.g., its distal end 520) may be configured to flex relative to the armbar 500 to decouple the engagement feature 518 from a surface 522 of the sidewall 28. With continued reference to FIGS. 59 and 60 , to remove the armbar 500 from the sheet member 22, a user applies a force to the distal end 520 of the second armbar mount 514, such as in an outward direction away from the sidewall, as shown by arrow F6. It should be understood that the direction of the force varies based on the location of the engagement feature 518 about the second armbar mount 514. As shown, the end 520 of the second armbar mount 514 may be positioned adjacent an exposed surface of the sidewall 28 that is easily accessible to the user. This force F6 causes the distal end 520 of the second armbar mount 514 to bend or rotate, thereby moving the engagement feature 518 out of contact with the adjacent surface 522 and into alignment with the opening 516. While the engagement feature 518 is in this bent position, the second armbar mount 514 can be removed from the opening 516, thereby separating the armbar 500 from the seat member 22. It should be understood that the clip shown as the second armbar mount 514 used in the non-limiting embodiment to connect the armbar 500 to the seat member 22 is intended as an example only, and that any suitable connector or coupling mechanism, such as, for example, a snap fit connection, is within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0104] 61 and 62, in another embodiment, the arm bar 500 may be slidably connectable to the seat member 22. As shown in the cross-sectional views of FIGS. 62A and 62B, the sides 524 of the bumper member 502 of the arm bar 500 may be contoured to define a recess 525 into which a portion of the side wall 28 of the seat member 22 can be received. Thus, the arm bar 500 can be connected to and detached from the seat member 22 via the front portion 34 of the seat member 22. In one embodiment, one or both sides of the bumper member 502 include at least one rib 526 protruding therefrom, and a corresponding portion of the side wall 28 includes a recess or undercut 528 into which the rib 526 can be slidably received. This engagement between the rib 526 of the arm bar 500 and the undercut 528 of the side wall 28 limits vertical movement of the arm bar 500 relative to the seat member 22.

[0105] 3-5, in the non-limiting embodiment shown in Figures 54-60, the crotch member 504 of the arm bar 500 is not itself configured to couple to the seat member 22. Rather, the crotch member 504 is positioned as desired by the connection between the bumper member 502 and the seat member 22 via one or more arm bar mounts 508. However, embodiments in which a portion of the crotch member 504 is also connectable to the seat member 22 are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0106] Regardless of the mechanism connecting the arm bar 500 to the seat member 22, a portion of the arm bar 500 may form a portion of at least one of the side walls 28 of the seat member 22, such as a portion of the upper surface thereof. As shown, a portion of the side wall 28 near the front 34 of the seat member 22 has an undercut or otherwise contoured region 530 that is reduced in one or more dimensions compared to the remainder of the side wall 28 (see FIG. 54). A portion of the arm bar 500, such as a side surface 524 of the bumper member 502, can be positioned to overlap the undercut region 530. In one embodiment, when the arm bar 500 is attached to the seat member 22, the side surface 524 of the bumper member 502 is substantially flush with one or more adjacent surfaces of the side wall 28.

[0107] As previously mentioned, a tray 540 for supporting one or more items may be attachable to a portion of the child safety seat 20, such as the top or arm bar 400. Referring now to FIGS. 63-65B, the illustrated tray 540 is only shown as being directly coupled or secured to the arm bar 400. In such embodiments, the tray 540 may not be able to be coupled to the seat member 22 when the arm bar 500 is removed from the seat member 22. However, embodiments in which the tray 540 is alternatively or additionally connectable to the seat member 22 are also contemplated herein. As shown, the tray 540 may include one or more latches operable to engage a portion of the arm bar 500 to couple the tray 540 to the seat member 22. At least one latch may be located near a rear edge 544 of the tray 540. For example, the first latch 542a may be positioned around the tray 540 such that the first latch 542a is positioned approximately adjacent to a first side wall 28 of the sheet member 22, and the second latch 542b may be positioned around the tray 540 such that the second latch 542b is positioned approximately adjacent to a second, opposite side wall 28 of the sheet member 22.

[0108] In one embodiment, the first latch 542a and the second latch 542b are engageable with a portion of the arm bar 500 disposed on the outwardly facing surface of the side wall 28. As shown, the latches 542a and 542b may be engageable with the outwardly facing surface of the side 524 of the bumper member 502. A groove 550 may be formed in the outwardly facing surface to define a lower surface 552 of the side 524. A portion of each of the latches 542a and 542b, such as their ends 554, may be positionable in contact with the lower surface 552 to limit movement of the tray 540 relative to the sheet members 22.

[0109] The latches 542a and 542b may be movable between a first engaged position and a second disengaged position. In one embodiment, a biasing member 556 is operably coupled to the latches 542a and 542b. The biasing force of the biasing member 556 is configured to bias each respective latch toward the first engaged position. When a user applies force to either of the latches 542a and 542b, the force counters the biasing force of the biasing member 556, transforming, e.g., translating, the latch from the engaged position to the disengaged position. As the latch 542a and / or 542b moves toward the disengaged position, the end 554 of that latch disengages from the lower surface 552. In this retracted position, the tray 540 can be separated from the seat member 22, specifically the arm bar 500. When the force is removed to connect the tray 540 to the arm bar 500 , the biasing member 556 biases the latches 542 a and 542 b back to the first engaged position, contacting the lower surface 552 .

[0110] 64 and 65A-65B, the tray 540 is connectable to the arm bar 500 in multiple positions. In one embodiment, one or more adjustment ribs 560 are formed within the groove 550 of the arm bar 500 and extend outward therefrom. The ends 554 of the latches 542a and 542b that engage the arm bar 500 may include one or more slots 562 complementary to the multiple adjustment ribs 560. Thus, when the latches 542a and 542b are in the first engaged position, the one or more adjustment ribs 560 are receivable within the corresponding slots 562 of the latches 542a and 542b. In other embodiments, the adjustment ribs 560 may be formed in the latches 542a and 542b, and the slots 562 may be formed in the arm bar 500. When the tray 540 is coupled to the arm bar 500, the slots 562 and the adjustment ribs 560 cooperate to position the tray 540 relative to the arm bar 500. For example, in Fig. 65A, the tray 540 is shown positioned in a forward-most position relative to the sheet member 22, e.g., adjacent the front 34 of the sheet member 22, while in Fig. 65B, the tray 540 is shown in a rearward-most position relative to the sheet member 22. It should be understood that the tray 540 may also be positioned in one or more positions between the forward-most and rearward-most positions shown.

[0111] In one embodiment, the tray 540 does not need to be separated from the arm bar 500 to adjust the position of the tray 540 relative to the seat member 22. Rather, the tray 540 may remain positioned overlapping the arm bar 500 while translating between multiple positions. The latches 542a and 542b are operated to disengage the ribs 560 from the slots 562, but the tray 540 does not lift or move vertically relative to the seat member 22. Once the desired position is reached, force is removed from the latches 542a and 542b, thereby biasing the slots 562 into engagement with one or more adjustment ribs 560. Thus, depending on the position of the tray 540 relative to the arm bar 500 and, therefore, the seat member 22, different adjustment ribs 560 can be accommodated in different slots 562 of the latches 542. By allowing the tray 540 to be positioned in one of multiple positions around the seat member 22, the position of the tray 540 can be adjusted based on the size of the child seated within the child safety seat 20.

[0112] 14-17 , instead of or in addition to the arm bar 40 and tray 80, a seat back extension member 110 may be removably connectable to the seat member 22 to increase the vertical height of the seat back 30. When connected, the seat back 30 and seat back extension member 110 combine to extend vertically beyond the upright sidewall 28. In such an embodiment, the contour of the seat back extension member 110 may be substantially complementary to or identical to the contour of the seat back 30, but this is not necessarily the case. The seat back extension member 110 may be formed from the same material as the seat member 22, or may be formed from a different material. In one embodiment, a first portion 112 of the seat back extension member 110 is receivable within a corresponding recess 114 formed in the seat back 30 of the seat member 22.

[0113] In one embodiment, as best shown in Figures 14, 16, and 17, one or more clips 116 may be used to selectively couple the seat back extension member 110 to the seat member 22. As shown, each of the clips 116 is insertable into a corresponding opening 118 (Figure 14) formed in the seat back extension member 110, e.g., a first portion 112 of the seat back extension member 110 that is receivable within the recess 114. The shape of each clip 116 may be selected to prevent gravity from separating the clip 116 from the seat back extension member 110. For example, the clip 116 may include a head 120 extending in a first direction and a connector 122 extending from the head 120 in a second direction and having a reduced dimension relative to the head 120 in the first direction.

[0114] As shown in FIG. 17 , an undercut or other feature 124 may be formed in a portion of the seat member 22 positioned adjacent to the seat back extension member 110. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the feature 124 is formed in a sidewall 126 of the recess 114, although embodiments in which the feature 124 is formed in another suitable location around the seat member 22 are also contemplated herein. A portion of the clip 116, such as the connector 122, may include a through-hole 128 (see FIG. 14 ) configured to cooperate with the feature 124 to couple the seat back extension member 110 to the seat member 22. When the seat back extension member 110 is installed around the seat member 22 (e.g., when the first portion 112 of the seat back extension member 110, including at least one clip 116, is inserted into the recess 114), the undercut or feature 124 can be received within the through-hole 128 of the clip 116. The engagement of the through-holes 128 with the features 124 limits the vertical movement of the seat back extension member 110 from the seat member 22 .

[0115] By forming the clip 116 from a resilient material, the connector 122 may be configured to flex relative to the head 120 of the clip 116, disengaging the feature 124 from the through-hole 128. With continued reference to FIG. 17 , to remove the seat back extension member 110 from the seat member 22, a user applies force to the exposed end of the connector 122 in a direction away from the feature 124, as indicated by arrow F3. As shown, the end of the connector 122 may be positioned adjacent an exposed surface 130 of the seat member 22 ( FIGS. 15 and 16 ) that is easily accessible to the user. This force F3 causes the connector 122 to flex or rotate, moving the through-hole 128 away from the undercut or feature 124 and disengaging it. While the connector 122 is in this flexed position, the seat back extension member 110 can be removed from the recess 114. It should be understood that the clips 116 used to connect the seat back extension member 110 to the seat member 22 are intended as an example only, and that any suitable connector or connecting mechanism is within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0116] In one embodiment, the second end 38 of at least one of the legs 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d is removably connectable to a corresponding portion of the seat member 22. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, at least one of the legs, such as rear legs 24c, 24d, is connectable to the seat member 22 via a quick connect coupling mechanism 140 (FIG. 1) that does not require the use of any additional or external tools, such as a screwdriver.

[0117] 18A-19B, an example of such a quick connect coupling mechanism 140 is shown in more detail. As shown, a first portion 142 of the coupling mechanism 140 is attached near the second end 38 of a leg, such as the rear left leg 24d. The first portion 142 of the coupling mechanism 140 includes a housing 144 and a support member 146 associated with the housing 144 and movably attached to the rear left leg 24d. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the support member 146 is rotatable relative to the rear left leg 24d about a pivot axis X (FIG. 19B) between an engaged position and a disengaged position (not shown). The pivot axis X may be defined in a central portion of the support member 146 or near an end of the support member 146. A biasing member 148, such as a coil spring or a torsion spring, is configured to exert a biasing force on the support member 146 to maintain it in the engaged position. In one embodiment, the torsion spring 148 is mounted coaxially to the support member 146 about the pivot axis X. However, in other embodiments, the biasing member 148 may be connected to another portion of the support member 146.

[0118] 19B, engagement member 150 protrudes from surface 152 of support member 146. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, engagement member 150 is generally conical or frusto-conical in shape. However, it should be understood that engagement member 150 having any suitable shape is contemplated herein. When support member 146 is in the engaged position, engagement member 150 extends beyond adjacent surface 154 of housing 144 and rear left leg 24d.

[0119] The second portion 156 of the quick connect coupling mechanism 140 is complementary to the first portion 142 and is disposed on a surface of the seat member 22, e.g., its outer surface. In one embodiment, the second portion 156 is secured to the seat member 22 via one or more fasteners, e.g., screws. The second portion 156 of the quick connect coupling mechanism 140 includes a body 158 having at least one groove 160 configured to receive a portion of the engagement member 150 to couple or lock the rear left leg 24d to the seat member 22. In one embodiment, the shape of the at least one groove 160 is selected such that an engagement area defined between the engagement member 150 and the groove 160 limits movement of the rear left leg 24d relative to the seat member 22.

[0120] Continuing to refer to FIG. 19B , to couple a leg, such as rear-left leg 24d, to seat member 22, a user applies a force, indicated by arrow F4, to a portion of support member 146 remote from engagement member 150, such as at or near end 162. The force F4 applied by the user counters the biasing force of biasing member 148, thereby rotating support member 146 in a first direction about pivot axis X. In this rotated position, engagement member 150 is substantially retracted within housing 144 and does not extend beyond surface 154 of rear-left leg 24d. Next, the user positions rear-left leg 24d so that first portion 142 of coupling mechanism 140 is adjacent second portion 156 of coupling mechanism 140. Engagement member 150 can be substantially aligned with groove 160 formed in second portion 156. Once aligned, the user can remove force F4 from support member 146. The biasing force of the biasing member 148 causes the support member 146 to rotate in a second direction about the pivot axis X toward the engaged position. As the support member 146 rotates toward the engaged position, the distal end of the engagement member 150 is received within the groove 160, thereby coupling the rear left leg 24d to the seat member 22. The rear left leg 24d can be detached from the seat member 22 in a similar manner. It should be understood that the coupling mechanism 140 shown and described herein is intended as an example only, and that a coupling mechanism having any suitable configuration that allows any leg of the child seat 20 to be easily coupled to or detached from the seat member 22 without the use of external tools is within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0121] 20A-20C, the leg 24d may include a protrusion 164, for example, extending beyond the end 38 of the leg 24d. As shown (see FIG. 20B), the protrusion 164 may be integrally formed with the first portion 142 of the coupling mechanism, e.g., its housing 144. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the protrusion 164 is generally frustoconical in shape. However, it should be understood that protrusions 164 having any suitable shape are contemplated herein. In such an embodiment, a pocket 166 is also formed in the surface of the sheet member 22 against which the end 38 of the leg is configured to abut. In one embodiment, as best shown in FIG. 20A, the outer surface of the sidewall 28 may be partially recessed, resulting in a flange or lip at or near the top of the sheet member 22. The pocket 166 may be formed in the underside 168 of this lip. However, the pocket 166 may be formed in any surface adjacent to the corresponding portion of the leg 24.

[0122] The size and shape of the pocket 166 may be substantially identical to the size and shape of the protrusion 164. As a result of these substantially identical shapes and sizes, when the leg 24d is properly connected to the sheet member 22, the side walls of the protrusion 164 are disposed in contact with one or more of the side walls defining the pocket 166. The contact between the side walls of the protrusion 164 and the side walls of the pocket 166 resists rotation of the leg 24d in both the front-to-back and side-to-side directions. Furthermore, this engagement may relieve some of the load on one or more fasteners connecting the second portion 156 to the sheet member 22.

[0123] While the legs 24a-24d of the child safety seat 20 are generally illustrated and described as a single, one-piece body, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 54, one or more of the legs 24a-24d may be formed from a leg assembly including multiple components or parts that can be selectively included or omitted to provide the various modes disclosed herein. In embodiments in which the legs 24a-24d are formed as an assembly including multiple parts, the child safety seat 20 may be transformed into additional modes that would not otherwise be achievable if the legs 24a-24d were formed from a single body. In one embodiment, each of the legs 24a-24d is a leg assembly including an upper leg and a lower leg. Additionally, in some embodiments, the legs 24 may further include intermediate or leg extension portions positionable between the upper and lower legs. It should be understood that embodiments in which at least one of the legs 24a-24d is a leg assembly including multiple parts, and embodiments in which at least one of the legs 24a-24d is a one-piece leg, are also within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, it should be understood that in embodiments in which multiple legs 24a-24d are formed by leg assemblies, the components of each leg 24 need not be the same. In embodiments in which one or more of the legs 24 are formed as a leg assembly, the child car seat 20 may be transformable between multiple modes, such as a first high chair mode (FIG. 54), a second booster mode (FIG. 66A), and a third youth chair mode (FIG. 66B).

[0124] 21A-24, the child safety seat 20 may include a harness assembly 170 associated with the seat member 22 for selectively restraining a child seated within the hollow interior 32 of the seat member 22. The harness assembly 170 is removably attached to the seat member 22, or has portions thereof removably attached to the seat member 22, without requiring the use of external tools. The harness assembly 170 includes a main member 172 (FIG. 23) and one or more support members 174 connectable to the main member 172. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the main member 172 includes a buckle 176 and a retention clip 178 connected to opposite ends of a strap or piece of flexible webbing 180. As shown in the figures, the one or more support members 174 may include at least one waist strap. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the harness assembly 170 includes a single support member 174 including a waist strap 182 formed from a piece of webbing having a first buckle clip 184 disposed at a first end 186 of the webbing piece and a second buckle clip 188 disposed at a second, opposite end 190 of the webbing piece. The first buckle clip 184 and the second buckle clip 188 are both releasably connectable to the buckle 176 of the main member 172 to form a continuous strap that encircles the child's torso.

[0125] In embodiments including a single waist strap 182, the harness assembly 170 may further include an anchor 192 connected to the waist strap 182 and removably attachable to the seat member 22 via a retaining clip 194 to prevent movement of the child relative to the seat portion 26 of the seat member 22. The anchor 192 is shown attached to the seat portion 26 and / or seat back 30 at a location behind the buckle 176. However, embodiments in which the anchor 192 is located at other locations around the seat member 22, such as on the upright sidewall 28, are also contemplated herein. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the waist strap 182 extends through a slot (not shown) formed in the anchor 192. However, it should be understood that the waist strap 182 and anchor 192 may be connected in any suitable manner.

[0126] In other embodiments, one or more support members 174 may include separate first and second waist straps, for example, positioned at the sides of the child. In such embodiments, first and second buckle clips 184, 188 may be positioned at a first end of each of the waist straps, and a retaining clip similar to retaining clip 178 or 194 may be positioned at a second, opposite end of each of the waist straps for securing the waist straps to seat member 22. Furthermore, although not shown or described herein, it should be understood that harness assembly 170 may include alternative or additional support straps connectable to buckle 176, for example, support straps configured to wrap around the child's shoulders.

[0127] The buckle 176, buckle clips 184, 188, and / or retaining clips 178 and 194 can be made from any suitable material, such as injection-molded plastic (e.g., polypropylene or styrene). Referring to FIG. 23 , the buckle 176 includes a buckle housing 195 having a plurality of openings 196 for receiving one or more buckle clips 184, 188 attached to one or more support members 174 of the harness assembly 170. A button 198 is centrally disposed in the buckle housing 195 and configured to cooperate with each of the buckle clips 184, 188 to selectively release the buckle clips 184, 188 from the buckle housing 195. Any suitable releasable engagement between the buckle clips 184, 188 and the buckle 176 is within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, each of the buckle clips 184, 188 may include a flexible snap (not shown) configured to engage a rib when inserted into the respective opening 196 formed in the buckle housing 195. When the button 198 is pressed, the flexible snap bends, causing the flexible snap to disengage from the ribs, thereby allowing the buckle clips 184 , 188 to separate from the interior of the buckle housing 195 .

[0128] Retaining clips 178 or 194, such as those associated with primary member 172, anchor 192, and / or one or more support members 174, may be removably connectable to a portion of sheet member 22, for example, via a snap-fit ​​connection. As best shown in FIG. 24 , an example of a retaining clip 194, such as a retaining clip for anchor 192, is shown. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, retaining clip 194 includes at least one prong, for example, two prongs 200, receivable within an opening 202 formed in sheet member 22. Each prong 200 is formed from a flexible or resilient material with an outward bias and has a projection or rib 204 configured to abut an adjacent surface 206 of sheet member 22 to limit separation of retaining clip 194 therefrom. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, to separate retaining clip 194 from sheet member 22, a user simply bends or squeezes prongs 200 toward each other so that rib 204 is fully aligned with opening 202. In this compressed configuration, the retention clip 194, including the ribs 204, is configured to slide through the opening 202. Although the retention clip 194 is shown and described with respect to the anchor 192, it should be understood that the retention clip 178 associated with the main member 172 and / or the retention clips associated with one or more of the support members 174 may have a similar structure. Furthermore, the retention clip 194 shown and described herein is intended as an example only, and it should be understood that retention clips 178, 194 having any suitable configuration that allows for easy installation and removal from the sheet member 22, for example, without the use of additional tools, are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0129] With continued reference to FIG. 1 and further reference to FIGS. 25A-47, in one embodiment, the child seat 20 includes a footrest 210 connectable to one or more legs 24 at a position vertically offset from the front 34 of the seat member 22. The position of the footrest 210 may be fixed or adjustable relative to the seat portion 26 of the seat member 22. In the non-limiting embodiment shown in FIGS. 25A-31, the footrest 210 is positionable in either a first position (FIG. 24A) or a second position (FIG. 24B) relative to the front legs 24a, 24b, while in the non-limiting embodiment shown in FIGS. 32-47, the footrest 210 is positionable in the first, second, or third position. However, it should be understood that embodiments in which the footrest 210 is positionable in only a single position or in four or more positions are also contemplated herein. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that in some embodiments, the footrest 210 is removable from the child seat 20, and therefore the child seat 20 can be used without the footrest 210 attached.

[0130] 27 , an example of a footrest 210 is shown according to one embodiment. As shown, the footrest 210 includes a footrest body 212 having a generally flat upper surface 214 on which a child can place one or more feet. The footrest body 212 is supported relative to the child car seat 20 by at least one footrest mount 216. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, a first footrest mount 216 is connected to the underside 218 of the footrest body 212 near a first side 220 of the footrest body 212, and a second, substantially identical footrest mount 216 is connected to the underside 218 of the footrest body 212 near an opposite, second side 222 of the footrest body 212. However, embodiments in which only a single footrest mount or more than two footrest mounts are used to attach the footrest body 212 and / or in which one or more footrest mounts 216 are connected to different portions of the footrest body 212 are also contemplated herein.

[0131] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, each footrest mount 216 has a generally L-shaped configuration including a base 224 connectable to the footrest body 212 and a connector 226 extending at an angle from the base 224. As shown, the base 224 of the footrest mount 216 may be oriented generally parallel to the underside 218 of the footrest body 212, and the connector 226 may extend generally perpendicular, for example, parallel to one of the front legs 24 a, 24 b.

[0132] At least one footrest mount 216 is connectable to a corresponding front leg 24a, 24b to couple the footrest 210 to the leg. As shown in FIG. 29 , the at least one footrest mount 216 may include, for example, an engagement member 228 disposed on an outer surface of a connector 226 that faces an inner surface of the respective front leg 24a, 24b. A bracket 230 having one or more openings 232 for accommodating a portion of the at least one footrest mount 216 (e.g., the engagement member 228) may be attached to an inward-facing surface 233 of each of the front legs 24a, 24b.

[0133] 24A-31, the bracket 230 may be positioned such that at least one opening 232 overlaps a groove (not shown) formed in the front legs 24a, 24b. As shown, the bracket 230 includes a first opening 232a positioned at a first vertical position and a separate second opening 232b positioned at a second vertical position vertically offset from the first vertical position. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the footrest 210 is separated from the child safety seat 20 to transition the footrest 210 between the first position (first opening 232a) and the second position (second opening 232b). However, it should be understood that embodiments in which the footrest 210 remains connected to one or more of the front legs 24a, 24b of the child safety seat 20 as the footrest 210 transitions between multiple vertical positions are also contemplated herein.

[0134] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the engagement member 228 (see FIG. 29 ) includes an elongated projection or rib 234 having a flange 236 formed at the distal end thereof, resulting in the engagement member 228 having a generally T-shaped cross section. However, engagement members 228 having any suitable configuration are within the scope of this disclosure. Similarly, each opening 232 a, 232 b formed in the bracket 230 may be a keyway or slot having a connected first portion 238 and a second portion 240. The size and shape of the first portion 238 of the openings 232 a, 232 b are selected so that both the rib 234 and the flange 236 of the engagement member 228 can be received therein and extend therethrough into the adjacent grooves formed in the front legs 24 a, 24 b. The size and shape of the second portion 240 of the openings 232 a, 232 b is narrower relative to the first portion 238 of the opening. The rib 234 is receivable within the second portions 240 of the openings 232a, 232b, but the flange 236 is not. As a result, when the engaging member 228 is positioned within the second portions 240 of the openings 232a, 232b, the flange 236 of the engaging member 228 is held in position between the front legs 24a, 24b and the bracket 230, thereby limiting separation of the footrest mount 216 from the front legs 24a, 24b.

[0135] To place the footrest 210 in one of a plurality of positions, the engagement member 228 is inserted through the first portion 238 of the openings 232 a, 232 b and into the adjacent groove. The user then manually manipulates the engagement member 228 to translate the engagement member 228 from the first portion 238 of the openings 232 a, 232 b to its second portion 240. As described above, during this translation, only the rib 234 of the engagement member 228 is receivable within the second portion 240 of the openings, thereby connecting the engagement member 228 to the front legs 24 a, 24 b. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the engagement member 228 of the footrest 210 is configured to slide vertically downward as it transitions from the first portion 238 to the second portion 240 of the openings 232 a, 232 b. However, in other embodiments, the engagement member 228 may be configured to translate in a horizontal plane or rotate about an axis between the first portion 238 and the second portion 240 of the openings 232a, 232b. Removing the footrest 210 from its position about the child seat 20 can be completed by performing these same steps in reverse order.

[0136] In one embodiment, as best shown in FIG. 26 , the front legs 24 a, 24 b of the child seat 20 are disposed at a non-parallel angle relative to one another. As a result, the horizontal clearance defined between the front legs 24 a, 24 b varies, e.g., gradually decreases, from the support surface toward the seat member 22. Thus, in such an embodiment, the horizontal clearance associated with the first position of the footrest 210 is different from the horizontal clearance associated with the second position of the footrest 210. To accommodate this difference, in one embodiment, at least one footrest mount 216 is movably coupled to the footrest body 212. For example, the at least one footrest mount 216 may be slidable or translatable relative to the footrest body 212 between a first extended position ( FIGS. 26 and 27 ) and a second retracted position (not shown). 30 and 31, a channel 242 is formed in the base 224 of the footrest mount 216, and a corresponding member 244, such as a T-shaped member, extending from the underside 218 of the footrest body 212 is receivable within the channel 242. However, any suitable joint that allows for movement of at least one footrest mount 216 relative to the footrest body 212 is contemplated herein.

[0137] One or more footrest mounts 216 may be movable relative to the footrest body 212 in response to operation of an actuator 246. Referring to FIG. 27 , in one embodiment, each of the multiple footrest mounts 216 is independently movable. As shown, each of the footrest mounts 216 includes a respective button or actuator 246 that, when pressed or actuated, moves the footrest mount 216 relative to the footrest body 212, for example, from an extended position to a retracted position. In another embodiment, as best shown in FIG. 28 , a single actuator 246 may be operatively coupled to multiple footrest mounts 216. As shown, when the actuator 246 is actuated, such as by application of a force indicated by arrow F5, both the first and second footrest mounts 216 are configured to translate inwardly toward the retracted position. It should be understood that regardless of whether the footrest mount 216 is independently movable or integrally movable, when the engagement member 228 is disposed within the second portion 240 of the openings 232a, 232b, the footrest mount may not be able to move relative to the footrest body 212 in response to operation of the actuator 246. Rather, such movement may only be possible when the engagement member 228 of the footrest mount 216 is separated from the front legs 24a, 24b or when it is disposed within the first portion 238 of the openings 232a, 232b.

[0138] In one embodiment, a biasing member (not shown), such as a coil spring, is operable to bias at least one footrest mount 216 outward to an extended position to facilitate engagement with front legs 24a, 24b. In such an embodiment, when at least one actuator 246 is released, one or more footrest mounts 216 associated with the at least one actuator 246 are biased by the corresponding biasing mechanism to return to the extended position. Thus, to place footrest 210 in a desired position, a user operates at least one actuator 246 associated with one or more footrest mounts 216 to move the footrest mounts 216 inward to a retracted position. Next, the user aligns the engagement member 228 of each footrest mount 216 with the corresponding opening 232a, 232b and, upon alignment, releases the at least one actuator 246. The biasing force causes the footrest mounts 216 to move outward to the extended position, such that the engagement member 228 is received within the respective opening 232a, 232b. In embodiments in which the openings 232a, 232b are keyways having a first portion 238 and a second portion 240, the user can transition the engagement member 228 within the openings 232a, 232b as described above.

[0139] 33-47, another embodiment of a footrest 210 is shown. As previously described, the footrest body 212 is supported by at least one footrest mount 216 connectable to a corresponding front leg 24a, 24b to couple the footrest 210 to the legs. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the engagement member 228 of the footrest mount 216 includes an elongated protrusion or rib 234 having a flange 236 formed on only a portion of the distal end of the rib 234.

[0140] 36-40 , the bracket 230 (also referred to herein as the height adjustment channel) is recessed or attached within a groove formed in the inwardly facing surface 233 of each of the front legs 24a, 24b. As best shown in FIGS. 38 and 39 , the height adjustment channel 230 includes a generally hollow housing 300 having a front wall 302, a left side 304, and a right side 306. The ends of the left side 304 and the right side 306 may be configured to abut one another to substantially seal the ends of the housing 300. The front wall 302 of the housing 300 may include an elongated slot 308 extending across at least a portion, and in some embodiments, most, of the front wall 302. The front wall 302 of the housing 300 also includes an opening 310 formed therein, for example, near an end 312 thereof, which is connected to the slot 308. The width or diameter of the opening 310 is substantially greater than the width of the slot 308. The opening and slot 308 can be considered in combination as a single opening, of which opening 310 forms a first portion and slot 308 forms a second portion.

[0141] The height adjustment plate 314 is connected to the housing 300 and forms a back or rear wall opposite the front wall 302. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the left and right walls 304, 306 of the housing 300 have a plurality of pockets 316 formed therein, and the height adjustment plate 314 is formed to include a plurality of tabs 318 on either side thereof. Each of the plurality of tabs 318 is receivable within a corresponding pocket 316 in one of the left and right walls 304, 306 to secure the height adjustment plate 314 to the housing 300. The height adjustment plate 314 may also have a plurality of substantially identical latch holes 320 formed therein. As shown, the latch holes 320 are spaced across the height of the height adjustment plate and are generally aligned with the slots 308 when the height adjustment plate 314 is connected to the housing 300.

[0142] Button 322 is disposed within opening 310 and is biased by a biasing member 324, such as a coil spring, to a first, extended position generally flush with front wall 302 of housing 300. However, button 322 is deformable to a second, recessed position when a force is applied that counteracts the biasing force of biasing member 324.

[0143] 36-40 , and with further reference to FIG. 40 , a portion of the footrest mount 216 is receivable within the opening 310 and slot 308 to couple the footrest to the child seat 20. In one embodiment, the size and shape of the opening 310 is substantially the same as the size and shape of the flange 236 of the engagement member 228. Thus, to install the footrest 210, the footrest mount 216 can be positioned such that the flange 236 applies a force to the button 322, compressing the button 322. As a result, the flange 236 is configured to extend through the opening 310. The elongated slot 308 is sized to accommodate the rib 234 but not the flange 236. Thus, once the flange 236 is positioned within the hollow interior of the housing 300, the vertical position of the footrest mount 216 can be adjusted by sliding the rib 234 the length of the elongated slot 308. When engagement member 228 disengages from button 322, biasing member 324 biases button 322 back to the extended position.

[0144] In one embodiment, the footrest mount 216 includes a latch 330 having an end 332 operable to selectively engage a corresponding latch hole 320 formed in the height adjustment plate 314 to secure the footrest mount 216 in place relative to the height adjustment channel 230. Thus, each of the latch holes 320 formed in the height adjustment plate 314 defines a different vertical position of the footrest 210 relative to the legs 24a, 24b of the child seat 20. The latch 330 may be movable between an extended position and a retracted position manually or via one or more actuators 246. In the extended position, as shown in FIGS. 34 and 42 , the end 332 of the latch 330 protrudes from the footrest mount 216, for example, beyond the engagement member 228. The latch 330 may be biased to the extended position by a biasing mechanism 334. In one embodiment, a cable 336 is operably coupled to the actuator 246 and the latch 330. Thus, when a force F5 is applied to the actuator 246 to operate the actuator, the force may be transmitted through the cable 336 to the latch 330. When the force is applied, it may counter the biasing force of the biasing mechanism 334 and cause the latch 330 to retract inward into the footrest mount 216. When the actuator 246 is released, the biasing force of the biasing mechanism 334 returns the latch 330 to the extended position. In one embodiment, a sheath 337 may be coupled between the actuator 246 and the latch 330. The cable 336 may extend from the actuator 246 to the latch 330 through the sheath 337.

[0145] As the user moves the footrest mount 216, and thus the engagement member 228, within the housing 300 of the height adjustment channel 230, the latch 330 is received in one of the latch holes 320. To adjust the height of the footrest 210, the user operates the actuator 246 to move the footrest mount 216 while the latch 330 is retracted and therefore disengaged from the current latch hole 320. Once disengaged, the user can release the actuator 246 to move the footrest mount 216 to the desired position. Alternatively, the user can hold the actuator 246 in the operating position until the footrest mount 216 reaches the desired position and then release the actuator 246.

[0146] As previously mentioned, the front legs 24, 24b may be positioned at an angle such that the horizontal clearance between the legs 24, 24b varies between each respective position of the footrest 210. To accommodate this variance, in one embodiment, at least one footrest mount 216 is movably coupled to the footrest body 212. Referring now to FIGS. 44-45 , a generally hollow tube or channel 340 is centrally disposed within the interior 342 of the footrest body 212, overlapping with an opening 344 associated with each footrest mount 216. A slide block 346 is disposed within the hollow channel 340 and connected to the corresponding footrest mount 216. As shown, in the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a snap finger 348 formed on a first end 350 of the slide block 346 rigidly connects to the footrest mount 216. A second, opposite end of the slide block 346 includes a pivot point 352 operably connected to a component 354 (e.g., a bell crank, etc.) that is rotatable about a pivot axis P (see FIG. 45 ). A biasing mechanism (not shown), such as a coil spring, may be operably connected to the bell crank 354 to bias the slide block 346, and thus the footrest mount 216, which is connected to the slide block 346 via the snap fingers 348, to the extended position relative to the footrest body 212. It will be understood that the footrest mount 216 need not include a biasing member to bias the footrest mount 216 to the extended position such that the footrest mount 216 can move between the extended and retracted positions without a biasing force.

[0147] With continued reference to FIGS. 44-46 and further reference to FIG. 47, in operation, as footrest mount 216 translates vertically upward within elongated slot 308, height adjustment channel 230 applies a force to footrest mount 216, for example, via flange 236 of engagement member 228. This force causes bell crank 354 to rotate about its axis P, resulting in footrest mount 216 translating inward as needed. To disengage footrest mount 216 from height adjustment channel 230, a user can apply force to button 322 to retract the button while lifting footrest mount 216. Engagement member 228 of footrest mount 216 aligns with opening 310, thereby allowing engagement member 228 to move horizontally and disengage from leg 24a.

[0148] 48-53B illustrate another embodiment of a child car seat 420, such as a high chair, that includes a quick connect coupling mechanism 440 configured to couple a rear leg 424d to a seat member 422. While only a rear leg 424d is shown, it will be understood that the high chair 420 may include other legs, and the other legs may include portions of the quick connect coupling mechanism 440 for coupling the respective legs to the seat member 422. As shown, a first portion 442 of the coupling mechanism 440 is attached near the second end 438 of the rear leg 424d. The first portion 442 of the coupling mechanism 440 includes a housing 444 and a support member 446. The housing 444 is disposed inside the rear leg 424d. The housing 444 extends from the outer surface of the rear leg 424d. In one aspect, the housing 444 forms a T-shape that extends along the length of the outer surface of the rear leg 424d. Housing 444 is shaped to removably connect rear leg 424d to seat member 422, as described further below. Housing 444 can include a locking element 445. In one embodiment, locking element 445 comprises a recess defined by the exterior surface of housing 444. Housing 444 can be connected to support member 446 via at least one fastening element 447, such as a bolt, screw, adhesive, or other fastening element, that extends through rear leg 424d between support member 446 and housing 444.

[0149] FIG. 51 shows an exploded view of the coupling mechanism 440. The coupling mechanism 440 further includes a seat connection assembly 450 connected to the seat member 422. The seat connection assembly 450 includes a first mount member 452, a second mount member 454, a lock actuator 456, and a lock member 458. The first mount member 452 can be connected to the seat member 422 by at least one fastening element 459, such as a bolt, a screw, an adhesive, a combination thereof, or other fastening elements. The second mount member 454 can be connected to the first mount member 452 by a snap-fit ​​connection. It will be understood that the second mount member 454 can be connected to the first mount member 452 by other fastening means, can be formed with the first mount member 452 to form an integral, single piece, or can be connected directly to the seat member 422. The first mount member 452 defines a receptacle 460. In one embodiment, the receptacle 460 includes a track that extends along the exterior surface of the first mount member 452. The receptacle 460 can be sized to receive a portion of the housing 444 therein to connect the rear leg 424d to the seat member 422. In one embodiment, the track defines a T-shaped channel.

[0150] The locking member 458 can be disposed within one or both of the first and second mount members 452, 454. The locking member 458 is sized and positioned to transition between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the locking member 458 extends at least partially into the receptacle 460. In the unlocked position, the locking member 458 is removed from the receptacle 460. The seat connection assembly 450 can further include a biasing element 462. The biasing element can be connected to the locking member 458 to bias the locking member 458 toward the locked position. A lock actuator 456 is operably connected to the locking member 458. The lock actuator 456 is user-accessible from outside the seat connection assembly 450. The locking actuator 456 can be actuated to transition the locking member 458 from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0151] Figures 52A and 52B show bottom perspective views of rear leg 424d connected to seat member 422. Figure 52A shows the lock actuator 456 in an unactuated state, with lock member 458 in a locked position. Figure 52B shows the lock actuator 456 in an actuated state, with lock member 458 in an unlocked position.

[0152] 53A and 53B show cross-sectional views of FIGS. 52A and 52B, respectively. FIG. 53A shows the locking member 458 in the locked position, in which the locking member 458 is disposed in the receiving portion 460 of the first mount member 452 and engaged with the locking element 445. The engagement between the locking member 458 and the locking element 445 prevents the rear leg 424d from being removed from the seat member 422. FIG. 53B shows the locking member 458 in the unlocked position, in which the locking member 458 is removed from the receiving portion 460 and disengaged from the locking element 445. In the unlocked position, the rear leg 424d can be removed from the seat member 422.

[0153] In embodiments including a biasing mechanism, when the engagement member 228 of the footrest mount 216 disengages from the height adjustment channel 230, the biasing force of the biasing mechanism causes the footrest mount 216 to translate outward toward the first and second sides 220, 222 of the footrest body 212. In embodiments including a first footrest mount 216 disposed on the first side 220 of the footrest body 212 and a second footrest mount 216 disposed on the second side 222 of the footrest body 212, the slide blocks 346 associated with both footrest mounts 216 are simultaneously movable via the same rotatable component 354. Thus, as the bell crank 354 rotates, the distance between each footrest mount 216 and the pivot axis P remains equal.

[0154] The term "about" is intended to include the degree of error associated with measurement of a particular quantity based on equipment available at the time of filing.

[0155] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising," when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, elements, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0156] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to one or more exemplary embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes can be made and equivalents substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the essential scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, it is not intended that the disclosure be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out the disclosure, but rather that the present disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A child car seat, at least one leg; a seat member supported by the at least one leg; an arm bar connected to the seat member; a tray directly connectable to and supported by said arm bar.

2. 2. The child car seat of claim 1, wherein the arm bars extend across a front portion of the seat member when the arm bars are connected to the seat member.

3. 2. The child car seat of claim 1, wherein the arm bar includes a bumper member and a crotch member extending from the bumper member.

4. 4. The child car seat of claim 3, wherein only the bumper member is directly connectable to the seat member.

5. 4. The child car seat of claim 3, wherein the seat member further includes a seat portion, a first upright side wall, and a second upright side wall, a first leg opening formed between the crotch member and the first upright side wall, and a second leg opening formed between the crotch member and the second upright side wall.

6. 6. The child seat of claim 5, wherein the arm bar is directly connected to the first upright side wall and the second upright side wall.

7. The child car seat of claim 1 , wherein the tray is positionable to overlap the arm bars.

8. 10. The child safety seat of claim 1, wherein the tray further includes at least one latch operable to connect directly to the arm bar.

9. 9. The child safety seat of claim 8, wherein the at least one latch is movable between an extended position and a retracted position, and in the extended position, the at least one latch is operable to engage the arm bar.

10. 10. The child car seat of claim 9, wherein the tray has a channel formed therein, the arm bar is at least partially receivable within the channel, and in the extended position, the at least one latch extends across the channel.

11. 11. The child safety seat of claim 10, wherein the tray further includes at least one engagement tab extending across a portion of the channel, the at least one engagement tab operable to contact the arm bar.

12. 12. The child restraint system of claim 11, wherein the at least one latch and the at least one engagement tab are aligned around the channel.

13. 2. The child seat of claim 1, wherein the arm bars are permanently connected to the seat member.

14. 2. The child seat of claim 1, wherein the arm bar is removably connected to the seat member.

15. 2. The child car seat of claim 1, wherein the tray is supported by the arm bars without being connected to the seat member.

16. 10. The child safety seat of claim 1, wherein the tray further includes at least one rib, the at least one rib being supported by the seat member.

17. 17. The child car seat of claim 16, wherein the arm bar further includes at least one slot, and the at least one rib is receivable within the at least one slot for positioning the tray around the arm bar.

18. A child car seat, at least one leg; a seat member supported by the at least one leg; a coupling mechanism for connecting the at least one leg portion to the seat member without the use of external tools.

19. The coupling mechanism a first portion secured to the at least one leg and including an engagement member; 19. The child safety seat of claim 18, further comprising: a second portion secured to the seat member and including a groove for receiving the engagement member.

20. The first portion is a support member attached to the at least one leg and movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position; 20. The child safety seat of claim 19, further comprising: a biasing member operatively coupled to said support member to bias said support member toward said engaged position.

21. 21. The child safety seat of claim 20, wherein in the engaged position, the engagement member extends beyond a surface of the at least one leg, and in the disengaged position, the engagement member does not extend beyond the surface of the at least one leg.

22. 21. The child safety seat of claim 20, wherein the support member is rotatable about an axis between the engaged position and the disengaged position.

23. The sheet member is A horizontal sheet part, 19. The child car seat of claim 18, further comprising a seat back and at least one upright side wall, each of the seat back and the at least one upright side wall extending from the horizontal seat portion, and the at least one leg connectable to at least one of the seat back and the at least one upright side wall.

24. 19. The child safety seat of claim 18, wherein the at least one leg is separable from the seat member without the external tool.

25. A child car seat, at least one leg; a seat member supported by the at least one leg; a footrest connectable to the at least one leg portion, the footrest including at least one actuator operable to adjust a position of the footrest relative to the at least one leg portion.

26. The footrest is A footrest body, 26. The child seat of claim 25, further comprising: at least one footrest mount movable relative to the footrest body.

27. 27. The child safety seat of claim 26, wherein the at least one footrest mount further includes a latch movable relative to the at least one footrest mount in response to operation of the at least one actuator.

28. 27. The child car seat of claim 26, wherein the at least one footrest mount is translatable from an extended position to a retracted position, the at least one footrest mount further including a biasing mechanism operable to bias the at least one footrest mount toward the extended position.

29. 27. The child seat of claim 26, wherein the at least one footrest mount is movable relative to the footrest body in response to operation of the at least one actuator to releasably couple the footrest to the at least one leg portion.

30. 30. The child seat of claim 29, wherein the at least one footrest mount comprises a plurality of footrest mounts, the at least one actuator is a single actuator, and each of the plurality of footrest mounts is operably coupled to the single actuator.

31. 30. The child car seat of claim 29, wherein the at least one footrest mount further comprises a plurality of footrest mounts, and the at least one actuator further comprises a plurality of actuators, each of the plurality of footrest mounts operably coupled to a respective actuator of the plurality of actuators.

32. 27. The child car seat of claim 26, further comprising a bracket attached to the at least one leg, the bracket having at least one opening for receiving a portion of the footrest to connect the footrest to the at least one leg.

33. 33. The child safety seat of claim 32, wherein the at least one footrest mount further includes an engagement member receivable within the at least one opening.

34. 33. The child car seat of claim 32, wherein the at least one opening includes a first portion and a second portion, and the footrest is movable between the first portion and the second portion to connect the footrest to the at least one leg portion.

35. 26. The child seat of claim 25, wherein the footrest is connectable to the at least one leg portion in a plurality of vertical positions.

36. 26. The child car seat of claim 25, wherein the at least one leg further comprises a first leg and a second leg separated by a clearance, the first leg being positioned at an angle relative to the second leg such that the clearance varies across a height of the child car seat.

37. A child car seat, at least one leg; a seat member supported by the at least one leg and including a seat portion and a seat back; a seat back extension member connectable to the seat member at a position above the seat back.

38. 38. The child safety seat of claim 37, wherein the seat member has a recess, the seat back extension member being receivable within the recess.

39. 38. The child safety seat of claim 37, further comprising at least one clip associated with said seat back extension member, said at least one clip connectable to said seat member.

40. 40. The child restraint system of claim 39, wherein the at least one clip is permanently secured to the seat back extension.

41. 40. The child safety seat of claim 39, wherein the at least one clip is removably connectable to the seat back extension.

42. 40. The child safety seat of claim 39, wherein the at least one clip further comprises an opening, and the seat member further comprises a feature receivable within the opening when the seat back extension member is connected to the seat member.

43. 43. The child safety seat of claim 42, wherein the at least one clip is formed from a resilient material such that the at least one clip is flexible to separate the feature from the opening.

44. A child car seat, at least one leg; a seat member supported by the at least one leg; a harness assembly removably connectable directly to said seat member without the use of external tools.

45. The harness assembly A main component including a buckle; 45. A child safety seat as claimed in claim 44, further comprising at least one support member connectable to said main member.

46. The main component is a clip connectable to the sheet member; 46. ​​The child restraint system of claim 45, further comprising: a piece of webbing secured at a first end to the clip and secured at a second end to the buckle.

47. 47. The child safety seat of claim 46, wherein the clip includes at least one prong, the at least one prong being insertable into an opening formed in the seat member and including an outwardly extending projection.

48. 48. The child restraint system of claim 47, wherein the at least one prong is formed from a resilient material having an outward bias.

49. The at least one support member is a waist strap including a first buckle clip disposed at a first end thereof and a second buckle clip disposed at a second end thereof, the first buckle clip and the second buckle clip being connectable to the buckle; 46. ​​The child restraint system of claim 45, further comprising an anchor coupled to the waist strap and connectable to the seat member.

50. 50. The child car seat of claim 49, wherein the anchor includes at least one prong, the at least one prong being insertable into an opening formed in the seat member and including an outwardly extending projection.

51. 51. The child safety seat of claim 50, wherein the at least one prong is formed from a resilient material having an outward bias.

52. A child car seat, at least one leg; a seat member supported by the at least one leg; an arm bar connectable to the seat member; a tray connectable to the arm bar; The child car seat, wherein the tray cannot be connected to the seat member when the arm bar is detached from the seat member.

53. 53. The child safety seat of claim 52, wherein the tray is translatable relative to the seat member while connected to the seat member.

54. 53. The child safety seat of claim 52, wherein the tray is directly connectable to the arm bar.

55. 55. The child safety seat of claim 54, wherein the arm bar includes a plurality of adjustment ribs and the tray includes a latch having a plurality of slots, at least one of the plurality of adjustment ribs being receivable within at least one of the plurality of slots.

56. 56. The child seat of claim 55, wherein the arm bar includes at least one arm bar mount configured to connect the arm bar to the seat member.

57. 57. The child safety seat of claim 56, wherein the at least one arm bar mount includes a protrusion, the seat member includes an opening, the protrusion being receivable within the opening.

58. 57. The child safety seat of claim 56, wherein the seat member includes at least one side wall, and the at least one arm bar mount includes an engagement feature configured to abut an underside of the side wall.

59. 56. A child safety seat as claimed in claim 55, wherein the arm bars are slidably receivable about the seat member.

60. 53. A child safety seat as claimed in claim 52, wherein the arm bars extend across a front of the seat member when the arm bars are connected to the seat member.

61. 53. The child safety seat of claim 52, wherein the arm bar includes a bumper member and a crotch member extending from the bumper member.

62. 62. The child safety seat of claim 61, wherein only the bumper member is directly connectable to the seat member.

63. A child car seat, at least one leg; a seat member supported by the at least one leg; an arm bar connectable to the seat member; a tray connectable to the arm bar, the tray being movable relative to the arm bar between a first position and a second position while connected to the arm bar.

64. 64. The child safety seat of claim 63, wherein the tray is translatable between the first position and the second position.

65. 64. The child safety seat of claim 63, wherein the tray is directly connectable to the arm bar.

66. 66. The child safety seat of claim 65, wherein the arm bar includes a lower surface and the tray includes a latch, the latch having an engagement feature positionable in contact with the lower surface to connect the tray to the arm bar.

67. 67. The child car seat of claim 66, wherein the arm bar includes a plurality of adjustment ribs, the latch has a plurality of slots, and at least one of the plurality of adjustment ribs is receivable within at least one of the plurality of slots in at least one of the first position and the second position.

68. 68. The child car seat of claim 67, wherein the arm bar includes a bumper member and a crotch member extending from the bumper member, the bumper member including a side surface, and the plurality of adjustment ribs formed on the side surface.

69. 64. A child safety seat as claimed in claim 63, wherein the arm bars are slidably receivable in the front portion of the seat member.

70. 64. The child seat of claim 63, wherein the arm bar includes at least one arm bar mount configured to connect the arm bar to the seat member.

71. 71. The child safety seat of claim 70, wherein the at least one arm bar mount includes a protrusion, the seat member includes an opening, and the protrusion is receivable within the opening.

72. 71. The child safety seat of claim 70, wherein the seat member includes at least one side wall, and the at least one arm bar mount includes an engagement feature positionable in contact with an underside of the at least one side wall.

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