Swing device including magnetic drive unit and control unit

Abstract

To overcome a problem related to vulnerability of a gearbox design.SOLUTION: The swing apparatus comprises an arm assembly including a seat and a frame assembly coupled to the arm assembly. The frame assembly defines a pivot axis about which the arm assembly rotates during operation of the swing apparatus. The swing apparatus also includes an electromagnet disposed on the frame assembly and a plurality of permanent magnets disposed on the arm assembly and positioned to define an arc centered on the pivot axis. The electromagnet has an angular offset about the pivot axis relative to the plurality of permanent magnets positioned along the arc when the swing apparatus is in the neutral position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 000,743, filed March 27, 2020, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 012,999, filed April 21, 2020, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 041,172, filed June 19, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 127,575, filed December 18, 2020. The entire contents of each of these applications are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] Child swings are designed to provide a safe, elevated seating area for children along with the soothing benefits of natural pendulum motion. However, conventional swings have various drawbacks. For example, conventional swings are typically powered by DC power and gearboxes. Gearbox-based swings tend to generate noise due to mechanical operation and tend to become noisier over time due to mechanical wear. Gearbox-based swings also tend to be inefficient in terms of power consumption, and the large number of different parts (e.g., multiple gears, pins, lubricants, bearings, and / or the like) increases the potential for component failure. As a result, gearbox-based swings tend to fail earlier than normal wear and tear would.

[0003] As another example, gearbox-based swings also have bulky drives due to the mechanical size of the gearbox components, which can result in a heavy swing and / or interfere with swing operation, such as preventing a caregiver from accessing the swing controls, placing and removing a child in the swing, and / or the like.

[0004] As yet another example, some conventional swings also require the caregiver to manually push the swing to initiate movement. This can be problematic when the caregiver needs to exert significant force to initiate movement of the swing, when the caregiver is unable to exert the necessary force (e.g., a disabled or elderly person), and (conversely) when the caregiver is overtly aggressive, resulting in a potentially painful situation for the child / user in the swing.

[0005] As yet another example, some conventional swings control swing motion by estimating when the swing passes through the center of swing motion, assuming this is the same position as the swing when stationary. However, swings are often placed on uneven surfaces (e.g., carpet), which can result in an incorrect estimation of the center of swing motion (affected by gravity), which in turn can cause lopsided swing and / or other performance issues.

[0006] Generally, designing a swing to overcome these problems can be difficult because a child's swing must meet strict safety and stability (regulatory) standards while providing a satisfactory range and speed of swinging motion. One way to achieve such stability in conventional swings is by having a sizable base to "anchor" the swing so that it does not tip over when swung. However, such sizable bases pose packaging and assembly challenges and are unsuitable for smaller dwellings such as condominiums and apartments. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 9,433,304 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] Some conventional swings incorporate magnetic drives to overcome some of these problems, particularly those related to the fragility of gearbox designs. However, these conventional magnetic swings also tend to have bulky drives, which is often the result of at least some of the magnetic components (e.g., permanent magnets and / or electromagnets) being positioned far from the axis of swing motion, for example, disposed on or adjacent to the seat of the swing itself. This distance from the axis of rotation imposes significant requirements on the size, strength, and / or power consumption (for the electromagnets) of the magnets. In addition, some conventional magnetic swings still require the user to manually push the swing to initiate movement. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] Implementations of the invention disclosed herein are directed to swing devices having magnetic drives that utilize an array of permanent magnets with electromagnets oriented between the permanent magnets. In various aspects, the magnetic drives of the inventive swing devices according to the present disclosure are advantageously located near the pivot of the swing device's swing arm, providing a compact, lightweight, powerful, and highly power-efficient drive that is self-starting from a neutral rest position. The magnetic drives disclosed herein have relatively fewer parts than conventional mechanical drive mechanisms for swing devices (e.g., employing DC motors and gearboxes, or magnetic components located near or directly coupled to the swing seat), and generally provide quieter, more power-efficient, and more reliable operation.

[0010] In some embodiments, the swing apparatus includes a magnetic drive including an electromagnet and a plurality of permanent magnets. The swing apparatus also includes a controller coupled to the electromagnet to activate the electromagnet by applying an activation current having a polarity selectable from a first polarity and a second polarity, thereby initiating movement of at least a portion of the swing apparatus. The controller is configured to: A1) apply an activation current having one of the first polarity and the second polarity; A2) determine whether at least a portion of the swing apparatus has moved at least a predetermined amount; A3) switch the polarity of the activation current to the other of the first polarity and the second polarity if at least a portion of the swing apparatus has not moved at least the predetermined amount after a predetermined period of time; and A4) repeat A2) and A3) until it is determined in A2) that the swing apparatus has moved at least the predetermined amount.

[0011] In some aspects, the swing device includes an electromagnet and a plurality of permanent magnets positioned proximate the electromagnet such that upon electrical activation of the electromagnet, a magnetic force is generated between the electromagnet and each permanent magnet of the plurality of permanent magnets, and a controller coupled to the electromagnet for electrically activating the electromagnet and thereby initiating a swing motion of the swing device without manual intervention by a user of the swing device.

[0012] The swing device includes a controller that controls movement of at least a portion of the swing device and a plurality of optical sensors coupled to the controller. The plurality of optical sensors includes a first light source that emits a first light beam propagating along a first light path and a first detector that is spaced apart from the first light source and disposed in the first light path to detect the first light beam. The plurality of optical sensors also includes a second light source that emits a second light beam along a second light path that is substantially parallel to the first light path and offset from the first light path by a separation distance. The plurality of optical sensors also includes a second detector that is spaced apart from the second light source and disposed in the second light path to detect the second light beam. The swing device further includes an optical encoder strip disposed in the first light path and the second light path to facilitate detection of movement of at least a portion of the swing device.

[0013] In some embodiments, the swing device comprises a controller that controls movement of at least a portion of the swing device and a plurality of optical sensors coupled to the controller. The plurality of optical sensors includes a first light source that emits a first light beam propagating along a first light path and a first detector that is spaced apart from the first light source and disposed in the first light path to detect the first light beam. The plurality of optical sensors also includes a second light source that emits a second light beam along a second light path that is substantially parallel to the first light path and offset from the first light path by a separation distance. The plurality of optical sensors also includes a second detector that is spaced apart from the second light source and disposed in the second light path to detect the second light beam. The swing device further comprises slotted strips disposed in the first light path and the second light path to facilitate detection of movement of at least a portion of the swing device based on alternately blocking and unblocking the first light beam and the second light beam. The slotted strip includes a plurality of optically transparent slots and a plurality of photointerrupters respectively disposed between consecutive ones of the plurality of optically transparent slots.

[0014] In some aspects, the swing device includes an arm assembly including a seat, and a frame assembly coupled to the arm assembly and defining a pivot axis about which the arm assembly rotates during operation of the swing device. The swing device further includes an electromagnet disposed on the frame assembly, and a plurality of permanent magnets disposed on the arm assembly and positioned to define an arc centered on the pivot axis. The electromagnet has an angular offset about the pivot axis relative to the plurality of permanent magnets positioned along the arc when the swing device is in a neutral position.

[0015] In some embodiments, the swing device comprises an arm assembly including a seat, and a frame assembly coupled to the arm assembly and defining a pivot axis about which the arm assembly rotates during operation of the swing device. The swing device further comprises an electromagnet disposed on the frame assembly, and a plurality of permanent magnets disposed on the arm assembly and positioned to define an arc centered on the pivot axis. When the swing device is in a neutral position, the electromagnet and the plurality of permanent magnets are disposed on a first side of the pivot axis, and the seat is disposed on a second side of the pivot axis.

[0016] In some embodiments, the swing device includes an arm assembly including a seat, and a frame assembly coupled to the arm assembly and defining a pivot axis about which the arm assembly rotates during operation of the swing device. The swing device also includes a plurality of permanent magnets disposed on the arm assembly and positioned to define an arc about the pivot axis, wherein a linear distance between each of the plurality of permanent magnets and the pivot axis is at most about 0.5 inches to about 5 inches. The swing device also includes an electromagnet disposed on the frame assembly.

[0017] In some embodiments, the swing device includes an arm assembly including a seat, and a frame assembly coupled to the arm assembly and defining a pivot axis about which the arm assembly rotates during operation of the swing device. The swing device also includes a plurality of permanent magnets disposed on the arm assembly and positioned to define an arc about the pivot axis. The swing device also includes an electromagnet disposed on the frame assembly, wherein the linear distance between the electromagnet and the pivot axis is at most about 1 inch to about 6 inches.

[0018] In some embodiments, the swing apparatus comprises an electromagnet and a plurality of permanent magnets positioned near the electromagnet to generate a magnetic force upon electrical activation of the electromagnet, thereby controlling swing motion of at least a portion of the swing apparatus, wherein a separation gap between the electromagnet and a first permanent magnet of the plurality of permanent magnets is 0.15 inches or less when magnetically aligned during operation of the swing apparatus.

[0019] In some embodiments, the swing device comprises an arm assembly including a hub, a swing arm coupled to the hub, and a seat coupled to the swing arm. The swing device also comprises a frame assembly coupled to the hub and including a frame arm, the frame assembly defining a pivot axis about which the hub rotates during operation of the swing device. The swing device also further comprises an electromagnet disposed on the frame assembly and a plurality of permanent magnets disposed on the hub and positioned to define an arc centered on the pivot axis. The swing device also includes a housing enclosing the electromagnet and the plurality of permanent magnets.

[0020] In some embodiments, the swing device includes a controller that determines when to change direction during a swing motion without detecting when at least a portion of the swing device passes through a neutral position of the swing motion.

[0021] In some aspects, the swing device comprises a panel having a surface and including a dial for facilitating user input that, in use, specifies a range of swing motion of at least a portion of the swing device. The surface defines a hole and a recess within the hole, and the dial is disposed within the recess. The swing device also includes a controller communicatively coupled to the dial to control the swing motion based on the user input.

[0022] In some embodiments, a kit includes components for assembling a swing device. The kit includes, in order, a first component including a frame assembly, a magnetic drive unit coupled to the frame assembly, and a power supply circuit for coupling an external power source to the magnetic drive unit. The kit also includes a second component including a swing arm configured to couple to the magnetic drive unit. The kit also includes a third component including a seat configured to couple to the swing arm. The power supply circuit is entirely contained within the first component.

[0023] In some embodiments, the swing device includes an arm assembly including a seat and a frame assembly that supports the swing device above the ground during operation of the swing device. The frame assembly is coupled to the arm assembly and defines a pivot axis about which the arm assembly swings during operation of the swing device. The pivot axis forms an angle of about 15 degrees to about 45 degrees with respect to a horizontal plane parallel to the ground. The swing device also includes a drive disposed about the pivot axis that controls the swinging movement of the arm assembly about the pivot axis during operation of the swing device.

[0024] In some embodiments, the swing device includes a resting portion on a substantially flat ground during operation of the swing device, the base defining a vertical footprint of the base member on the ground. The swing device also includes a frame assembly including a frame arm having a lower portion coupled to the base, the lower portion of the frame arm extending upwardly from the base and a lower portion of the frame stalk extending away from the vertical footprint of the base and tilted from vertical to be located outside the vertical footprint of the base. The swing device also includes a swing arm assembly coupled to the frame assembly, the swing arm assembly including a seat for supporting a child during operation of the swing device.

[0025] In some embodiments, the swing device includes a base for resting on the ground during operation of the swing device, the base having a curved periphery. The swing device also includes an arm assembly including a swing arm and a rotatable seat coupled to the swing arm for supporting a child during operation of the swing device, the rotatable seat having an axis of rotation normal to the ground. The swing device also includes a frame assembly coupled to the arm assembly and the base, the frame assembly defining a pivot axis about which the arm assembly swings during operation of the swing device. The rotatable seat is positioned on the arm assembly such that the combined center of gravity of the swing device and an anthropomorphic test device (ATD) disposed on the seat is laterally offset by less than 1 inch from the axis of rotation of the rotatable seat.

[0026] In some embodiments, the swing device includes a base that rests on a horizontal surface during use, the base defining a vertical footprint. The swing device also includes a frame assembly including a frame arm, the frame arm defining an upper portion and a lower portion, the lower portion of the frame arm coupled to the base via a stalk and inclined at an angle relative to the vertical footprint at the point of interconnection such that the lower portion of the frame arm is outside the vertical footprint. The swing device also includes a swing arm assembly coupled to the frame assembly, the swing arm assembly including a seat for supporting a child during use, the lower portion and upper portion collectively defining a curvature such that the upper portion of the frame arm encroaches within the vertical footprint.

[0027] In some embodiments, the swing device includes a base member that rests on a horizontal surface during use, the base member defining a vertical footprint. The swing device also includes a frame assembly including a frame arm, the frame arm defining an upper portion and a lower portion. The lower portion of the frame arm is coupled to the base member via a stalk and is inclined at an angle relative to the vertical footprint at the point of interconnection such that the lower portion of the frame arm is outside the vertical footprint. The swing device also includes a drive unit coupled to the upper portion, at least a portion of the drive unit being inside the vertical footprint. The swing device also includes a swing arm assembly coupled to the drive unit, the swing arm assembly including a seat for holding a child during use.

[0028] In some embodiments, a swing device includes a frame assembly and a hub rotatably coupled to the frame assembly at a pivot. The swing device also includes a seat and a swing arm having a first end attached to the seat. A second end of the swing arm is attached to the hub such that rotation of the hub relative to the frame assembly about the pivot rotates the swing arm and the seat. The swing device also includes at least one permanent magnet disposed on one of the frame assembly and the hub, and at least one electromagnet disposed on the other of the frame assembly and the hub. The at least one electromagnet and the at least one permanent magnet are configured to exert a magnetic force on each other to rotate the hub about the pivot relative to the frame assembly.

[0029] In some embodiments, the swing apparatus includes an arm assembly including a seat and a frame assembly coupled to the arm assembly and defining a pivot axis about which the arm assembly rotates during operation of the swing apparatus. The swing apparatus also includes at least one permanent magnet disposed on one of the arm assembly and the frame assembly and positioned to define an arc about the pivot axis. The swing apparatus also includes an electromagnet disposed on the other of the arm assembly and the frame assembly. The at least one permanent magnet is configured to have an opposite polarity facing the electromagnet. The swing apparatus is configured such that when the arm assembly is in a neutral position and the electromagnet is electrically activated, magnetic attractive and repulsive forces are simultaneously generated between the electromagnet and the at least one permanent magnet.

[0030] In some embodiments, the swing apparatus includes an arm assembly including a seat, and a frame assembly coupled to the arm assembly and defining a pivot axis about which the arm assembly rotates during operation of the swing apparatus. The swing apparatus also includes an electromagnet disposed on the frame assembly, and at least one permanent magnet disposed on the arm assembly and positioned such that a north pole of the at least one permanent magnet and a south pole of the at least one permanent magnet can achieve magnetic alignment with the electromagnet during operation of the swing apparatus. The electromagnet has an angular offset about the pivot axis relative to the north and south poles of the at least one permanent magnet when the swing apparatus is in a neutral position.

[0031] All combinations of the foregoing concepts and additional concepts described in more detail below (assuming such concepts are not mutually inconsistent) are part of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein. In particular, all combinations of claimed subject matter appearing at the end of this disclosure are part of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein. Terms used herein that may also appear in any disclosures incorporated by reference should be given the meaning most consistent with the specific concepts disclosed herein.

[0032] Those skilled in the art will understand that the drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the inventive subject matter described herein. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and in some instances, various aspects of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein may be shown exaggerated or enlarged in the drawings to facilitate a comprehension of different features. Within the drawings, like reference characters generally refer to like features (e.g., functionally similar and / or structurally similar elements). [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0033] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of an inventive swing device according to one exemplary implementation. [Figure 2]FIG. 2 is a side view of the swing device of FIG. [Figure 3A] 2 is an enlarged view of a housing and control for the magnetic drive of the swing device of FIG. 1. [Figure 3B] 2 is an enlarged cutaway view of a housing and control for the magnetic drive of the swing device of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] 2 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the magnetic drive of the swing device of FIG. 1 coupled to the swing arm. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an enlarged front view of a portion of the magnetic drive unit of FIG. [Figure 6] 2 is an enlarged side perspective view of a portion of the magnetic drive of the swing device of FIG. 1 coupled to the frame arm and holding the electromagnet. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an enlarged top perspective view of a portion of the magnetic drive portion illustrated in FIG. 6. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 shows a portion of the magnetic drive coupled to the swing arm, illustrating the positioning of the optical sensor. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of the optical sensor shown in FIG. 8, also illustrating a slotted encoder that is movable between the light source and detector of the optical sensor. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of the slotted encoder illustrated in FIG. 9. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of the optical sensor illustrated in FIG. 9. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a close-up view of the magnetic drive unit with the housing removed, which includes two permanent magnets and one electromagnet. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an enlarged front view of the magnetic drive illustrated in FIG. 12 in a neutral / rest position. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is an enlarged front view of the magnetic drive as shown in FIG. 13 with the swing arm rotated to the left to maximum deflection / maximum swing angle. [Figure 15] FIG. 14 is an enlarged front view of the magnetic drive as shown in FIG. 13 with the swing arm rotated to the right to its maximum deflection / swing angle when looking towards the swing seat. [Figure 16] 10 illustrates another magnetic drive for a swing device comprising three permanent magnets and two electromagnets. FIG. [Figure 17] 17 illustrates the magnetic drive of FIG. 16 with the swing arm rotated to the left to its maximum deflection / swing angle. [Figure 18] 17 illustrates the magnetic drive of FIG. 16 with the swing arm rotated to the right to maximum deflection / maximum swing angle. [Figure 19] 10 illustrates another magnetic drive for a swing device comprising one permanent magnet and one electromagnet. FIG. [Figure 20A] 20 illustrates the magnetic drive of FIG. 19 with the permanent magnet and electromagnet polarized to result in deflection of the swing arm to the left. [Figure 20B] 20 illustrates the magnetic drive of FIG. 19 with the swing arm rotated to the left to maximum deflection / maximum swing angle. [Figure 20C] 20 illustrates the magnetic drive of FIG. 19 with the permanent magnet and electromagnet polarized to result in deflection of the swing arm to the right. [Figure 20D] 20 illustrates the magnetic drive of FIG. 19 with the swing arm rotated to the right to maximum deflection / maximum swing angle. [Figure 21A] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a circuit including a controller for controlling the operation of a swing device having a magnetic drive. [Figure 21B] 10A-10C illustrate a method of operating a swing device having a magnetic drive. [Figure 21C] 12A-12C illustrate an exemplary operation of the dual optical sensor illustrated in FIGS. 8-11, including detecting a change in swing direction. [Figure 21D] FIG. 1 illustrates an example control loop of a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller for controlling the operation of the magnetic drive of the swing device. [Figure 22A] 1 is a diagram illustrating a glider swing device equipped with a magnetic drive unit. [Figure 22B]22B is a side view illustrating the glider swing device of FIG. 22A. [Figure 23A] 22B is a perspective view illustrating the glider swing device of FIG. 22A, including an exploded cutaway view of the portion including the magnetic drive to show internal details. [Figure 23B] 22B is an enlarged view illustrating the magnetic drive unit of the glider swing device of FIG. 22A. FIG. [Figure 24A] 3 is a side view illustrating the swing device of FIGS. 1-2 and further illustrating a 15° orientation of the swing arm relative to a horizontal reference line / plane. FIG. [Figure 24B] 3 is a side view illustrating the swing device of FIGS. 1-2 and further illustrating a 30° orientation of the swing arm relative to a horizontal reference line / plane. FIG. [Figure 24C] 3 is a side view illustrating the swing device of FIGS. 1-2 and further illustrating the 45° orientation of the swing arm relative to a horizontal reference line / plane. FIG. [Figure 25A] 1 illustrates a swing apparatus with a removable stand-alone seat, the seat being detached from the rest of the swing apparatus. [Figure 25B] 25B illustrates the swing device of FIG. 25A, with the seat connected to the remainder of the swing device. [Figure 25C] 25B is an exploded perspective view illustrating the seat of the swing apparatus of FIG. 25A with soft articles removed to show structural details. FIG. [Figure 25D] FIG. 25D illustrates the seat of FIG. 25C with the toy bar, swing arm, and seat base further removed to show structural details. [Figure 26A] 25B illustrates a cross section of a latch mechanism for the removable seat of FIG. 25A. FIG. [Figure 26B] FIG. 26B is a close-up view of the latch mechanism of FIG. 26A with the latch engaged. [Figure 26C] FIG. 26B is a close-up view of the latch mechanism of FIG. 26A with the latch disengaged. [Figure 27A]2 illustrates an exemplary air gap between a permanent magnet and an electromagnet for the swing device of FIG. 1. [Figure 27B] 1. FIG. 4 illustrates another example air gap between the permanent magnet and the electromagnet for the swing device of FIG. [Figure 28] 10A-10C illustrate a permanent magnet having a curved surface when used with any swing device as disclosed herein. [Figure 29] 2A-2C illustrate permanent magnets having various surface designs when used with the swing device of FIG. 1. [Figure 30] 1 is an image of a permanent magnet with a removable metal cap formed as a curved surface. [Figure 31A] 1 is a side view illustrating a typical swing device having a magnetic drive unit. [Figure 31B] FIG. 31B is a perspective view illustrating the swing device of FIG. 31A. [Figure 32] FIG. 31B is an enlarged view illustrating the motor illustrated in FIG. 31A with a portion of the casing removed to show detail. [Figure 33A] FIG. 31B illustrates an exemplary motor for the swing device of FIG. 31A having 12 permanent magnets and 12 electromagnets. [Figure 33B] FIG. 31B illustrates an exemplary motor for the swing device of FIG. 31A having 10 permanent magnets and 10 electromagnets. [Figure 33C] FIG. 31B illustrates an exemplary motor for the swing device of FIG. 31A having eight permanent magnets and eight electromagnets. [Figure 33D] FIG. 31B illustrates an exemplary motor for the swing device of FIG. 31A having six permanent magnets and six electromagnets. [Figure 33E] FIG. 31B illustrates an exemplary motor for the swing device of FIG. 31A having four permanent magnets and four electromagnets. [Figure 33F]FIG. 31B illustrates an exemplary motor for the swing device of FIG. 31A having two permanent magnets and two electromagnets. [Figure 34A] FIG. 31B illustrates an exemplary motor for the swing device of FIG. 31A having two permanent magnets and one electromagnet. [Figure 34B] FIG. 34B illustrates the example motor of FIG. 34A with a partial stator. [Figure 34C] FIG. 34B illustrates the example motor of FIG. 34A with the partial stator formed as a bracket. [Figure 35A] FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of a user interface panel of a swing device according to another inventive implementation. [Figure 35B] FIG. 35B is a side perspective view of the user interface panel of FIG. 35A. [Figure 35C] FIG. 35B is a bottom perspective view of the user interface panel of FIG. 35A. [Figure 35D] FIG. 35B is a top perspective view of the user interface panel of FIG. 35A. [Figure 35E] FIG. 35B is a front view of the user interface panel of FIG. 35A. [Figure 35F] FIG. 35B is a side view of the user interface panel of FIG. 35A. [Figure 35G] FIG. 35B is a top view of the user interface panel of FIG. 35A. [Figure 36A] 10A-10C illustrate the connection between the swing frame arm and the base member of the swing device disclosed herein. [Figure 36B] FIG. 36B illustrates the connection of FIG. 36A with the cover removed. [Figure 36C] FIG. 36B is another view of the connection of FIG. 36A with the cover removed. [Figure 36D] 36A-36C illustrate details of stalk and base members useful in forming the connections illustrated in FIGS. 36A-36C. [Figure 36E] 10 is a view showing a cutout for receiving a stalk from another perspective of the base member. FIG. [Figure 36F] 10A-10C illustrate areas of weld formation for securing the stalk to the base member. [Figure 36G] 10A-10C illustrate bolts useful for securing the frame arms to the stalks prior to insertion. [Figure 36H] 36A-36C are cutaway views showing details of connections formed between the frame arms, stalks, and base members, illustrating the connections illustrated in FIGS. 36A-36C. [Figure 37] 3 is a side view of the swing device of FIG. 2, with reference to an additional embodiment; FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0034] Below is a more detailed description of various concepts related to a swing device having a magnetic drive and control unit, and their implementations. It should be understood that the various concepts introduced above and described in more detail below can be implemented in numerous ways. Examples of specific implementations and applications are provided solely for illustrative purposes to enable implementations and alternatives apparent to those skilled in the art to be implemented.

[0035] The figures and exemplary implementations described below are not intended to limit the scope of implementations of the present invention to a single embodiment. Other implementations are possible in which some or all of the described or illustrated elements are substituted. Furthermore, where some elements of the disclosed exemplary implementations can be implemented partially or fully using known components, in some cases only those portions of such known components necessary for understanding the implementations of the present invention will be described, and detailed descriptions of other portions of such known components will be omitted so as not to obscure the implementations of the present invention.

[0036] Embodiments of the swing device disclosed herein include a compact magnetic drive and control unit that allows for automatic starting of the swing without user intervention. The magnetic components of the drive unit are disposed near the axis of the swing (also referred to as the pivot), thus providing a compact, quiet / noise-free drive design with minimal components suitable for long-term use. Because of their proximity to the axis, the magnetic components can be relatively closer to each other and to the axis than conventional approaches, which allows for flexible drive design, i.e., using smaller / weaker magnets to achieve a similar swing motion as conventional approaches, or using the same / larger magnets to achieve a greater range of swing motion.

[0037] Aspects of the swing device disclosed herein also provide for control of swing motion using a dual optical sensing mechanism that can detect changes in swing direction without the need to detect the center of swing motion. In this manner, swing control is independent of the strict requirement that the swing device be placed on a flat surface.

[0038] Embodiments of the swing device disclosed herein also provide an improved user interface panel with recessed dials for controlling swing parameters. The interface panel provides one-handed operation while protecting the dials and underlying control circuitry from inadvertent damage caused by a caregiver bumping the swing device while moving it, the swing tipping over, and / or the like.

[0039] Embodiments of the swing device disclosed herein also provide a smaller, material-saving design that is nevertheless structurally sound by reducing the base footprint and providing a single frame arm that is rigidly connected to the base via a stalk to prevent rotational losses during swing motion, yet is curved to maintain stable swing motion.

[0040] Aspects of the swing device disclosed herein also provide a modular design, i.e., allow the average caregiver / user to easily assemble the components. These components are designed / configured such that no electrical assembly (e.g., connecting power to the magnetic drive) is required by the caregiver, which prevents inadvertent damage to the magnetic drive due to caregiver mishandling / mistakes.

[0041] These and several other advantages of the swing devices disclosed herein and their respective components will now be described in further detail.

[0042] Swing device 1-3 illustrate a swing device 10 (sometimes simply referred to as a "swing") comprising a swing frame assembly 12, a swing arm assembly 15, and a magnetic drive unit 20. The swing frame assembly 12 includes a base / base member 13 that rests on a surface (e.g., the ground) to provide stability for movement of the swing arm assembly 15 during use. The base member 13 can have any suitable shape (e.g., oval, elliptical, square with rounded corners, etc.) and cross-sectional area. The shape and / or cross-sectional area may be selected based on factors such as, but not limited to, the footprint, stability, material, orientation of the base member 13 and / or other portions of the device 10 relative to the portions of the device 10, orientation relative to the direction of the swing motion, and / or the like.

[0043] The swing frame assembly 12 also includes frame arms 14 (sometimes referred to as "swing frame arms," ​​"frame support members," and variations thereof) that extend generally upward (i.e., away from the surface / ground on which the apparatus 10 rests or is placed) from the base 13. The frame arms 14 and / or other portions of the swing frame assembly 12 may be constructed of any suitable structural composition or element, such as, for example, iron pipe, aluminum pipe, and / or the like. In some cases, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 , the frame arms 14 may have an internal curvature along their length (i.e., are not straight). Such curvature may be beneficial for reducing the end-to-end length of the frame arms 14, thereby making the overall height of the swing apparatus 10 more compliant with use by an average adult user / caregiver. The shortened length also reduces material usage to fabricate the support members 14, thereby reducing weight. In some cases, frame arms 14 may be flexible so that members 14 can flex without breaking even when a user places some weight on apparatus 10 (e.g., leaning on housing 21). In some cases, frame arms 14 may be rigid. In some cases, frame arms 14 may be hollow and have an oval cross-section with its major axis facing toward the interior of swing apparatus 10. The wall thickness of frame arms 14 is generally selected to balance strength, flexibility, and weight, and may be from about 1.2 mm to about 1.6 mm, including all values ​​and subranges therebetween.

[0044] The rotating member 14a is coupled at one end to the frame arm 14 and at the other end to the drive unit 20, mounting the drive unit 20 to the frame arm 14. In some cases, the rotating member 14a may be integrally formed with the frame arm 14, the drive unit 20, or both. The rotating member 14a and the drive unit 20 may collectively define a pivot axis P-P' about which the swing rotates, as described in more detail herein.

[0045] As best illustrated in FIGS. 24A-24C, the frame arm 14, the rotating member 14a, or both, may be shaped and / or otherwise configured such that the pivot axis P-P′ may be oriented at any suitable angle α1 relative to a horizontal reference line HR. The reference line HR may be generally parallel to the floor or surface on which the device 10 is placed. FIG. 24A illustrates the device 10 when α1 is approximately 15°. FIG. 24B illustrates the device 10 when α1 is approximately 30°. FIG. 24C illustrates the device 10 when α1 is approximately 45°. In general, the angle α1 may be selected based on factors such as the desired natural frequency and / or half-period of the swing motion, with relatively high values ​​of α1 resulting in slower motion than relatively low values ​​of α1. Another factor may be the child's experience of a swinging motion within the seat 18 (sometimes referred to as the "seat frame," described in more detail below), where a relatively high value of α1 may cause the child to experience a motion that is more akin to gliding or rocking compared to a relatively low value of α1, where a motion that is more akin to pendulum motion may be experienced.

[0046] 24A-24C, the user interface panel 22 may define an interface plane II' (shown here in side view) that in turn defines an interface angle γ with respect to the pivot axis P-P'. The interface angle γ may generally be selected to provide ease of viewing and interaction with the user interface panel 22 by an adult caregiver who is typically taller than the swing apparatus 10. The interface angle γ may be approximately 90 degrees, approximately 100 degrees, approximately 110 degrees, approximately 120 degrees, approximately 130 degrees, approximately 140 degrees, or greater, including all values ​​and subranges therebetween.

[0047] 1-3, swing arm assembly 15, which supports or holds (e.g., suspends) seat / seat frame 18 during use, includes hub 16 mounted for pivotal movement about pivot axis P-P'. FIG. 3A also illustrates pivot plane PP, which includes pivot axis P-P'. Pivot plane PP may be a plane passing through the pivot axis and may be generally perpendicular to the floor or surface on which apparatus 10 rests. In particular, hub 16 is mounted, coupled, or otherwise attached to pivot shaft 19 (best shown in FIG. 4) along pivot axis P-P', which frame arm 14 supports, in a manner that allows rotation about the pivot axis. For example, hub 16 may be rigidly mounted to pivot shaft 19, which is rotatably coupled to the end of frame arm 14 via ball bearings (not shown), such that hub 16 and shaft 19 can rotate about pivot axis P-P'. As illustrated, the hub 16 may protrude outside the housing 21, such as through an opening formed in the housing 21. This may allow a caregiver to easily couple the swing arm 17 to the magnetic drive unit during assembly of the swing apparatus 10 without compromising the integrity of the housing and drive unit.

[0048] Swing arm 17 is coupled to hub 16 outside housing 21, projects downward from hub 16 (i.e., toward base member 13), curves toward the middle of device 10, and then (optionally, as illustrated) curves upward to couple to seat frame 18. The coupling between swing arm 17 and seat 18 is described in more detail with respect to FIGS. 25A-25D and 26A-26C. Seat frame 18 can hold any suitable hard and / or soft object (not shown) to form a seat for a child to sit on. Swing arm 17 and seat frame 18 are suspended from hub 16 so as to be able to pivot / rotate back and forth in an arc, circle, and / or generally pendulum-like motion in a direction from left L to right R about pivot shaft 19 and pivot axes P-P′, as best illustrated in FIG. 5. The forward and backward motion may be referred to interchangeably as swing motion, swinging motion, pendulum motion, and / or variations thereof, and may be characterized by a swing angle α between the pivot P-P′ and the L direction, and correspondingly, between the pivot P-P′ or R direction. It is understood that the swing angle α may be different in the L and R directions, for example, when the device 10 is not on a flat surface but is tilted, and the range of swing motion in one direction may be different from the other. The swing angle α may be from about 2 degrees to about 20 degrees, including all values ​​and subranges therebetween. The maximum swing angle α during use may be a predetermined angle, an angle specified by a caregiver, an angle limited by the mechanical design of the device 10, an angle limited by the weight of the infant in the seat 18, and / or the like.

[0049] The housing 21 of the swing apparatus 10 can be shaped and sized to cover the moving portions of the magnetic drive and swing arm assembly 15. FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate a user interface panel 22 coupled to or integrally formed with the housing 21, including a set of controls 23. The controls 23 can include preset application or function selection buttons / switches 24 for, for example, swing amplitude control (i.e., the degree or range that the swing rotates from its neutral or rest position), music, nature sounds, volume control, lighting (e.g., a night light, not shown, disposed on the hub or seat frame 18 that can illuminate a child positioned within the swing apparatus 10 during use), and / or the like. The controls 23 also include a dial 25 for selecting parameters of the selected function. When a user selects swing amplitude control from the switch 24, the dial 25 can then be used to select one of a number of preset values ​​(sometimes referred to as set points) for the swing angle α. As an example, a user may select a representative value from 1 to 6, with value 1 corresponding to a swing angle α of 3 degrees, value 2 corresponding to a swing angle α of 6 degrees, value 3 corresponding to a swing angle α of 9 degrees, value 4 corresponding to a swing angle α of 12 degrees, value 5 corresponding to a swing angle α of 15 degrees, and value 6 corresponding to a swing angle α of 18 degrees. The magnitude and resolution of the swing angle made available to the user may be based on many factors, including, but not limited to, child safety considerations, resolution of detection of swing motion (i.e., via an optical sensor as illustrated in FIGS. 8-11 ), and / or the like. In some cases, the user may be enabled to program and / or otherwise directly specify and set the swing angle α during use.

[0050] Rotating and pressing / clicking the dial 25 allows the user / caregiver to toggle and select the device parameter to be adjusted. For example, if the volume application is selected, rotating the dial 25 can adjust the desired music volume. The lighting can include visual indicators 26 (e.g., a light panel of a set of light-emitting diodes (LEDs)) that visually indicate a predetermined setting for the swing amplitude, information about the selected range of each selected function, and / or the like. FIG. 3B also illustrates the circuit board 29 on which the controls 23 are mounted, as well as a speaker (not shown for playing music, input, and / or other sounds). The panel 22 includes an opening 28 formed in the front of the speaker to allow music and / or sounds to be transmitted to the user. The panel 22 in FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrates the dial 25 as protruding from the surface 22a of the panel 22, making it easy for the user to locate and control.

[0051] 35A-35G illustrate another panel design comprising a user panel 3522 coupled to a housing 3521 and including a selection button 3524 (e.g., similar to button 24), a light panel 3526 (e.g., similar to visual indicator 26), and a dial 3525. The dial 3525 is recessed from the surface 3522a, in a hole, cavity, or pocket 3530 in the surface 3522a, as opposed to a protruding dial 25, and the surface 3522a includes a recessed portion 3535. The depth of the recessed portion 3535 from the surface 3522a can be about 0.25 inches, about 0.5 inches, about 1 inch, about 1.5 inches, or more, including all values ​​and subranges therebetween. The dial 3525 can be sized and positioned to be flush with the surface 3522a, not protrude beyond the surface 3522a, protrude minimally, or protrude to some extent (see, e.g., FIGS. 35B, 35F, and 35G). In some cases, the surface 3522a has a curvature, at least near the dial 3525, and the surface of the dial 3525 can also be curved to match that curvature. Also, as illustrated in FIGS. 35A-35G, the selection button 3524 and light panel 3526 can be arranged to be flush with the surface 3522a, not protrude beyond the surface 3522a, protrude minimally (e.g., perceived as a recess by the user), or protrude to some extent. A user can engage the selection button 3524 by depressing it, or by inserting a finger into the cavity 3530 to grasp the sides of the dial 3525. The designs of Figures 35A-35G minimize the likelihood that the button 3524 and / or dial 3525 will be pressed or even damaged by accidental tipping, jostling, scraping against environmental elements, etc. during unpacking and / or assembly, thereby reducing the likelihood that the swing device, or some feature of the device, will be rendered partially or totally inoperable.When the buttons 3524 and dials 3525 are physically coupled to a circuit board (as illustrated with respect to FIG. 3B), the coplanar design also prevents or minimizes misalignment and / or damage to the underlying circuit board, which may render some or all of the swing device's functionality inoperable.

[0052] Referring again to the diagram of FIG. 3B, there is also illustrated an optical sensor 45, a strip 35 (sometimes referred to as a "slotted strip," an "optical encoder strip," and variations thereof), and a magnetic drive having one electromagnet 51 and two permanent magnets 52, 53, all of which are described in further detail in the following sections.

[0053] Magnetic Drive Unit FIGS. 4-11 illustrate the magnetic drive unit 20 (sometimes referred to as a "magnetic drive mechanism," "drive unit," and variations thereof) of the swing device 10. FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate the arrangement and configuration of the swing arm portion 30 of the magnetic drive unit 20, i.e., the components of the magnetic drive unit 20 that are directly or indirectly coupled to the swing arm 17. Generally, these components of the swing arm portion 30 can undergo some form of motion (linear, rotational, and / or the like) during the swing motion. The pivot shaft 19 is held in place, while allowing for rotation, by the frame arm portion 40 of the magnetic drive unit 20, i.e., the components of the magnetic drive unit that are directly or indirectly coupled to the frame arm 14 (see FIGS. 6 and 7). Generally, these components of the frame arm portion 40 can be static during the swing motion. The pivot shaft 19 also rotatably supports the swing arm assembly 15 by longitudinally spaced bearings 27 which may be mounted to an electromagnet or inductor bracket 151 which holds the electromagnet 51 in place. The swing arm portion 30 extends along an arc AR about the axis of rotation P--P'. PMThe permanent magnets 52, 53 are housed within a permanent magnet bracket 152, each having a different angular separation from the pivot plane PP. However, any suitable number of permanent magnets may be employed, as described in more detail with respect to Figures 31-34. The permanent magnets 52, 53 are then disposed on a permanent magnet bracket 152 that is coupled to the hub 16 and swing arm 17.

[0054] 5 illustrates that for the illustrated exemplary two-permanent magnet layout, the angular separation of magnets 52, 53 about pivot axis P-P' from pivot plane P (e.g., based on the angular separation of the magnets' geometric centers, centers of mass, and / or other predetermined points) can be substantially similar to maximum swing angle α. Permanent magnets 52, 53 can be formed from ceramic ferrite. However, permanent magnets 52, 53 can alternatively be fabricated from neodymium or other equivalent materials.

[0055] Each of the permanent magnets 52, 53 defines a north and a south pole, and the magnets 52, 53 may be arranged to be oriented with alternating poles (sometimes referred to as polarities) facing the pivot shaft 19. For example, the magnet 52 may have a north pole facing away from the shaft 19 and a south pole facing away from the shaft 19 (as illustrated). The magnet 53 may have a south pole facing away from the shaft 19 and a north pole facing towards the shaft 19 (as illustrated). Alternatively, the permanent magnets 52, 53 may be arranged with opposite polarities, for example, as described above.

[0056] Frame arm portion 40 may be fixed to an upper end of upright frame support 14, such as the end of rotating member 14a, or to frame arm 14 itself. Frame arm portion 40 supports, is coupled to, and / or otherwise includes electromagnet 51, although any suitable temporary magnet capable of controllably switching magnetic poles may be employed. Electromagnet 51 is controlled (e.g., via a controller such as controller 2102, as described in more detail with respect to FIGS. 21A-21D) to define two switchable north and south poles, one of which may be oriented to face pivot shaft 19 and magnets 52, 53 and the other facing away.

[0057] As best illustrated in FIGS. 8-11 , the optical sensor 45 is secured to the frame arm portion 40 and communicatively coupled to the controller 2102. The optical sensor 45 is optically coupled to and / or engagable with the slotted strip 35, which is secured to the swing arm portion 30, during use. The optical sensor 45 includes sensing brackets 46, 47 having corresponding sensing beams 46 a, 47 a, and may be centered about a pivot axis P-P′, as illustrated in FIG. 7 , i.e., a plane P-P passes through the optical sensor 45. For example, each bracket 46, 47 may include a light-emitting diode (LED, not shown) thereon that emits a sensing beam 46 a, 47 a that is detectable by a photodetector (e.g., a photodiode) disposed opposite the corresponding LED. The LEDs may continuously emit the beams 46 a, 47 a during use, and these beams may be continuously detectable by the photodetector. While illustrated here as parallel beams, it is understood that beams 46a, 47a may exhibit some degree of convergence and / or divergence, i.e., conical. As described in more detail herein, the use of two sensing beams 46a, 47a may be useful for detecting changes in swing direction. Additionally, the combination of each LED and its corresponding photodetector may be considered an optical sensor, and optical sensor 45 encompasses optical sensor pairs as illustrated, and may generally include any suitable number of LED / photodetector pairs as an optical sensor.

[0058] 10, slotted strip 35 (which may also be referred to as an "encoder," "optical encoder," "optical strip," "encoder strip," and variations thereof) includes slot 36 and body portion 37. As illustrated, slotted strip 35 may be generally curved in shape, forming a curve / arc AR about pivot axis P--P'. SSThe slotted strip 35 may include about 6 to about 20 slots (reference numerals 36), with a swing angle of about 1 degree to about 3 degrees or more at pivot axes P-P', including all values ​​and subranges therebetween. The center-to-center separation distance Cs-Cs' between adjacent slots 36 (see FIG. 10) may be about 0.15 inches to about 0.21 inches, about 0.3 inches, about 0.4 inches, or about 0.5 inches, including all values ​​and subranges therebetween. The slots 36 may be formed as cutouts in the strip 35. In some cases, the slots 36 may include a film, window, and / or other layer disposed therein that is substantially optically transparent at the wavelengths of the sensing beams 46a, 47a. In contrast, the body portion 37 may be composed of any suitable material that is optically opaque to the wavelengths of the sensing beams 46a, 47a. The curvature and separation distance Cs-Cs' of the strip 35 may be selected so that the angular separation between the centers of adjacent slots (i.e., based on the angle subtended by adjacent slots at pivot axes P-P') may be from about 1 degree to about 3 degrees, including all values ​​and subranges therebetween. The number of slots may be selected so that the angular separation between the first and last slots 36 is at least equal to the maximum allowable swing angle α.

[0059] The optical sensor 45 and slotted strip 35 are positioned relative to one another such that the slotted strip 35 passes through the sensing brackets 46, 47 and engages the sensing beams 46a, 47a during rotational movement of the swing arm portion 30 about the P-P' axis. The slots 36 allow the beams 46a, 47a to pass, while the body portion 37 blocks the continuation of the beams. In other words, the sensor beams 46a, 47a may be "tripped" by the body portion 37. It is generally understood that the sensing beams may not be completely blocked by the body portion 37, depending on the beam width relative to the width of the slots 36 and the body portion 37 between the slots. The body portions 37 between adjacent slots may also be referred to as "photointerrupters," and thus the strip 35 may generally be considered to include interleaved or consecutive slots and photointerrupters.

[0060] Nevertheless, if the optical signal detected at a photodetector of optical sensor 45 is below a predetermined threshold, the corresponding sensing beam may be deemed by the controller to have been interrupted by the photointerrupter. Conversely, the sensing beam may not be completely transmitted by the slots 36, but if the optical signal detected at the photodetector is above a predetermined threshold, the corresponding sensing beam may be deemed to have been transmitted through one of the slots 36. In some cases, each photodetector of optical sensor 45 may further include a slit that limits the width of the optical signal reaching it.

[0061] This disturbance in the transmission of beams 46a, 47a is detectable by the photodetectors of sensor 45 and may generally resemble a different periodic signal for each photodetector, with, for example, a maximum value at the time when slot 36 engages the beam and a minimum value at the time when body portion 37 engages the beam. This is explained in more detail with respect to FIG. 21C . Because beams 46a, 47a have a finite cross-sectional width between successive slots at the interaction point, which may be wider or narrower than slot 36 and body portion 37, it is not necessary for the entire beam to be blocked by body portion 37 when interacting. Similarly, it is not necessary for the entire beam to pass through slot 36 due to its width. Thus, it will be appreciated that beams 46a, 47a may be considered to be passing through slot 36 when the signal detected at the photodetector exceeds a predetermined threshold. Similarly, beams 46a, 47a may be considered to be blocked by body portion 37 when the signal detected at the photodetector is below a predetermined threshold, not necessarily zero.

[0062] The center-to-center separation distance Ce-Ce' between beams 46a, 47a can be from about 0.25 inches to about 0.26 inches to about 0.4 inches, including all values ​​and subranges therebetween. In some cases, separation distance Ce-Ce' can be such that at least one complete slot 36 is always disposed between beams 46a, 47a during swing motion. Generally, such separation results in one of the sense beams (e.g., beam 46a) being centered and unobstructed in one slot 36 while the other beam (e.g., beam 47a) is on or covering the edge of another slot 36, transitioning from an obstructed or unobstructed state to another. Similarly, when one of the sense beams 46a, 47a is partially centered between the slots 36, the other beam will be on or covering the edge of another slot 36, transitioning from an obstructed state to an unobstructed state or vice versa, depending on the swing direction.

[0063] In some cases, the separation distance Ce-Ce' can be such that at least a portion of the two slots 36 and the intervening body portion 37 (i.e., the photointerrupter) are always disposed between the beams 46a, 47a during swing motion. As described in more detail herein, such a separation distance Ce-Ce' can improve the resolution of swing motion determination compared to the prior art.

[0064] FIG. 8 illustrates a hollow shield 49 formed as an extension of the frame support 14 and / or rotating member 14a to mechanically support the pivot shaft 19 and, in turn, the permanent magnets 31-33. As illustrated, the shield may be curved and / or otherwise include a recess capable of partially or fully accommodating the pivot shaft 19. For example, the curvature of the recess may be selected to match the curvature of the pivot shaft 19. The shield 49 may also provide a passageway for electrical and / or electronic wiring (e.g., for providing power to the controller 2102, the user interface panel 22, and / or the like). Additionally, the shield 49 may provide a mechanical stop to the movement of the swing arm assembly 15, i.e., physically limit the swing angle. In some cases, a mechanical stop, such as the casing of the housing 21, may prevent the swing arm assembly 15 from significantly exceeding a desired maximum swing angle α, which could render the swing device 10 unstable and prone to tipping.

[0065] Several structural aspects of the magnetic drive unit 20 offer advantages over conventional approaches. As an example, none of the components of the magnetic drive unit 20, such as permanent magnets, electromagnets, optical sensors, control circuits, and / or the like, are formed or coupled directly to the seat 18. As a result, the seat design is simplified and can be based solely on mechanical considerations, rather than electrical or magnetic. Safety is also improved by spacing these components from the child occupant of the seat. Furthermore, modularity of the seat design can be achieved without concern for how the placement of these various components may be affected. One beneficial result is that the seat can be seamlessly replaced after damage, wear, or when new seat designs become available. Additional advantages include the seat / seat frame being relatively light, which therefore facilitates installation, removal, and transportation, and further allows for integration into other children's products, such as car seats, play yard, strollers, and / or the like.

[0066] As another example, with the magnetic drive unit 20 removed from the seat and the pivot P--P' no longer associated with the seat frame, the components of the magnetic drive unit 20 may be positioned closer to the pivot P--P' of rotational / rotational motion compared to the conventional approach, resulting in a smaller / less bulky casing for the entire magnetic drive unit. This proximity also allows the permanent magnets 52, 53 and the electromagnet 51 to be positioned closer to each other. Because the magnetic forces between two magnetic poles, both attractive and repulsive, increase with increasing proximity, placing the permanent magnets and electromagnets closer together results in a wider range of swing motion, i.e., greater coupling and greater force available to convert electrical energy supplied to the electromagnet 51 into magnetic force and ultimately mechanical swing motion. This closer placement also allows for control of the tolerance between the magnets 52, 53 and the electromagnet 51. Conversely, the same range of swing motion as the conventional approach can be achieved with smaller and / or less powerful magnets. This can result in space advantages and cost savings from using smaller, weaker magnets and electromagnets. Additionally, no gears and / or gearboxes are employed by the magnetic drives described herein (including magnetic drive 20), thus avoiding the volume and noise associated with gearbox-based drives, including DC motor drives that employ magnets but nonetheless also employ gearboxes.

[0067] Magnetic drive operation 12-14 illustrate the configuration and operation of magnetic drive unit 20 with swing arm portion 30 and frame arm portion 40 assembled and with housing 21 removed for clarity. By employing an exemplary configuration of two permanent magnets 52, 53 (see FIGS. 4-5) and one electromagnet 51 (see FIGS. 6-7), when assembled and at rest or neutral, electromagnet 51 can be positioned at an angle (e.g., intermediate angle) between magnets 52, 53, i.e., in a staggered manner, relative to pivot axis P-P′. FIGS. 14-15 illustrate that electromagnets 51, 42 can be positioned to be within pivot plane P-P in a neutral or rest position or state, which can be considered the position / state when no activation current is applied to electromagnet 51, such that non-magnetic forces, such as gravity, acting on movable swing arm assembly 15 solely determine the positioning of electromagnet 51 and magnets 52, 53. It should be noted that the neutral / rest position is achieved instantaneously, even when the swing device 10 is in motion.

[0068] In the neutral / rest position (see, for example, FIG. 13 ), the magnets 52, 53 and the electromagnet 51 can be considered to be disposed on one side (sometimes referred to as the “first side”) of the pivot axis P-P′, while the seat 18 is disposed on a different side (sometimes referred to as the “second side”) of the pivot axis P-P′. For example, the seat is disposed between the pivot axis P-P′ and a horizontal surface (e.g., a floor) on which the swing apparatus 10 rests, and the magnets 52, 53 and the electromagnet 51 are disposed in the space above the pivot axis P-P′. Such separation allows the seat 18 and even the electromagnet 51 / magnets 52, 53 to be disposed near the pivot axis P-P′ without other components in between, providing a more compact design. The compact design, in which the electromagnet and permanent magnet are located closer to the pivot axis P--P', also allows for the use of smaller and / or weaker magnets, as the magnetic force between them needs to be sufficient to move the permanent magnet through the relatively small arc length of the swing motion.

[0069] For example, the linear separation distance or distance between the center of mass or geometric center of electromagnet 51 and pivot axis P-P' can be at most about 1 inch, about 2 inches, about 3 inches, about 4 inches, about 5 inches, or about 6 inches, including all values ​​and subranges therebetween. Additionally or alternatively, the linear separation distance or distance between the geometric center of a face (e.g., face 51f) of electromagnet 51 and pivot axis P-P' can be at most about 0.5 inch, about 1 inch, about 2 inches, about 2.35 inches, about 2.5 inches, about 3 inches, about 4 inches, or about 5 inches, including all values ​​and subranges therebetween. Similarly, the linear separation distance or distance between the center of mass or geometric center of one of permanent magnets 52, 53 and pivot axis P-P' can be at most about 0.5 inch, about 1 inch, about 1.87 inches, about 2 inches, about 2.5 inches, about 3 inches, about 4 inches, or about 5 inches, including all values ​​and subranges therebetween. Additionally or alternatively, the linear separation distance or distance between the geometric center of one face (e.g., face 52f) of permanent magnets 52, 53 and pivot axis P--P' can be at most about 0.5 inches, about 1 inch, about 1.5 inches, about 2 inches, about 2.25 inches, about 2.5 inches, about 3 inches, about 4 inches, or about 5 inches, including all values ​​and subranges therebetween.

[0070] As described in more detail below, when the magnetic drive section is laid out as illustrated in FIGS. 12-13 and in its initial position, and when the electromagnet 51 is energized, the attractive and repulsive forces generated between the magnets 52, 53 and the electromagnet 51 can initiate rotation of the swing arm assembly 15 in either the L or R direction about the pivot axis P-P'. During such movement, the magnets 52, 53 can pass the electromagnet 51 in close proximity without touching (e.g., within about 0.02 inches, about 0.025 inches, about 0.03 inches, about 0.04 inches, or about 0.05 inches, including all values ​​and subranges therebetween) while maintaining an air gap as the swing arm portion 30 rotates about the pivot axis P-P' relative to the stationary frame arm portion 40.

[0071] A caregiver / user can use panel 22 to initiate operation of magnetic drive unit 20 and set various parameters for operation. For example, the caregiver / user can use control 23 and dial 25 to select a swing angle α (or an equivalent indicator, such as level 5) for swing arm assembly 15 and, accordingly, magnetic drive unit 20. The caregiver can also use control 23 and dial 25 to specify the length of time that swing arm assembly 15, and thus magnetic drive unit 20, should be operated. If no selection is made for any parameter, a default value for the maximum swing angle may be adopted, allowing operation to occur continuously or for a predetermined time limit (e.g., 20 minutes). The maximum swing angle α of movement of swing arm assembly 15 may be defined by the spatial arrangement of magnets 52, 53, and more specifically, by the angular separation between each of magnets 52, 53 and electromagnet 51.

[0072] Permanent magnets 52, 53 have pre-established permanent magnetic poles, as described above, and FIGS. 13-15 illustrate one example of such pre-established magnetic poles. Electromagnet 51 has no magnetic poles until energized by an electric current (e.g., from an electrical source such as a wall outlet or battery). When the magnetic drive is in the state shown in FIG. 13, swing arm assembly 15 begins to rotate in the left direction L (see FIG. 14) because the north pole of magnet 52 is attracted to the south pole of electromagnet 51. This rotation is further facilitated by the repulsive force between the south pole of magnet 53 and electromagnet 51. As shown in FIG. 14, rotation is affected through a swing angle α, which results in the attractive poles of magnet 52 and electromagnet 51 aligning.

[0073] Generally, the alignment and attractive force between a permanent magnet and an electromagnet, i.e., between their opposing faces / poles, can be greatest when there is a maximum overlap between these opposing faces / poles. Using magnet 52 and electromagnet 51 of FIG. 14 as a representative example generally applicable to any electromagnet / permanent magnet interaction as disclosed herein, the attractive force therebetween can be greatest when they are aligned as illustrated in FIG. 14. In this alignment, face 52f of magnet 52 and face 51f of electromagnet 51 are generally parallel and / or otherwise maximally aligned and perpendicular to pivot plane PP. The air or separation gap between faces 51f and 52f can be about 0.3 inches or less, about 0.2 inches or less, about 0.15 inches or less, about 0.1 inches or less, about 0.05 inches or less, or about 0.025 inches or less, including all values ​​and subranges therebetween. Plane PP can also pass through the geometric center, center of mass, or magnetic center of magnet 52 and electromagnet 51. Thus, when not in the position illustrated in Figure 14, some alignment (sometimes referred to as "magnetic alignment") less than maximum alignment may occur between magnet 52 and electromagnet 51. For example, if maximum swing angle α is 18 degrees and user input (via panel 22 and dial 25) maps to a swing angle α of approximately 12 degrees, magnet 52 may move from its rest position toward electromagnet 51, but not enough to achieve the maximum alignment illustrated in Figure 14. This may be achieved by modulating the energization of electromagnet 51 according to the user's input for swing angle α, which subsequently affects the attractive force generated between magnet 52 and electromagnet 51, as described in more detail below.

[0074] Due to inertia, in some cases the magnetic drive may overshoot beyond the desired swing angle α, an effect which may be counteracted / damped by both the weight of the swing arm assembly (including a child within the seat frame 18) and the continuing attractive force between the magnet 52 and the electromagnet 51. In some cases, due to similar weight considerations, the magnetic force between the electromagnet 51 and the permanent magnets 52, 53 may be insufficient (e.g., too weak to overcome the opposing force of gravity) to move the swing arm assembly 15 all the way to swing angle α, and may move the swing arm assembly partially towards that position.

[0075] During this movement of the swing arm assembly 15, the slotted strip 35 passes through the sensing brackets 46, 47 as described above, and this movement can be employed by the controller 2102 to detect the direction of movement of the swing arm assembly 15 and even when the direction of movement has changed. After detecting a change in the direction of movement, the controller 2102 can then switch the pole / polarity of the electromagnet 51 so that the north pole of the electromagnet 51 now interacts with the magnets 52, 53 (see FIG. 15 ).

[0076] Electromagnet 51, in turn, repels magnet 52 and attracts magnet 53. These simultaneous magnetic forces, along with gravity, cause swing arm assembly 15 to rotate in the opposite direction (i.e., rightward direction R, see FIG. 15 ). Magnetic drive unit 20 can swing fully or partially through swing angle α in rightward direction R. When another change in direction is detected, controller 2102 can again switch the poles of electromagnet 51, causing magnetic drive unit 20 to move again toward leftward direction L.

[0077] 16-18 illustrate another swing device 50. Unless otherwise noted, like-referenced and named components may be structurally and / or functionally similar to those of device 10. In contrast to device 10, which includes a single, centrally positioned electromagnet 51 (i.e., aligned with pivot plane PP) and a pair of permanent magnets 52, 53 angularly offset from pivot plane PP, device 50 includes three magnets 31-33 and two electromagnets 41, 42. Like magnets 31-33, electromagnets 41, 42 may also be positioned on an arc about pivot axis P-P'. Like the permanent magnets, each electromagnet 41, 42 may have a different angular separation from pivot plane PP about pivot axis P-P'. Here, FIG. 16 illustrates that for the exemplary two-electromagnet layout illustrated, electromagnets 41, 42 are equally separated from the pivot plane PP and can swing at approximately half the maximum allowable swing angle α about pivot axis P--P′.

[0078] In device 50 as illustrated, at the start of operation, electromagnet 41 may be energized with its south pole facing magnets 31-33, and electromagnet 42 may be energized with its north pole facing magnets 31-33. This results in an attractive force between magnet 31 and electromagnet 41 and between magnet 32 ​​and electromagnet 42, and a repulsive force between magnet 32 ​​and electromagnet 41 and between magnet 33 and electromagnet 42. This biases swing arm assembly 15 to the left (see FIG. 17 ). FIG. 17 illustrates that maximum angular deflection to the left (i.e., maximum swing angle α) of swing arm assembly 15 may occur when magnet 32 ​​is aligned with electromagnet 42. In some cases, momentum may cause magnet 32 ​​to shoot past electromagnet 42; in other cases, magnet 32 ​​may not achieve the alignment illustrated in FIG. 17 due to, for example, the weight of a child, insufficient energization of electromagnet 51, and / or the like. 16-18 illustrate a scenario in which a user selects a maximum swing angle α, resulting in maximum alignment between electromagnets 41, 42 and permanent magnets 31, 32, respectively, during swing motion in one direction (FIG. 17), and maximum alignment between electromagnets 41, 42 and permanent magnets 32, 33 during swing motion in the other direction (FIG. 18). As explained above with respect to FIGS. 13-15, a user can select an angle less than the maximum swing angle α, resulting in a lesser degree of alignment between electromagnets 41, 42 and permanent magnets 31-33.

[0079] 18 illustrates device 50 when electromagnets 41, 42 are then energized with their north and south poles facing magnets 31-33, respectively, resulting in swing arm assembly 15 rotating toward the right. Similar to device 10, device 50 can include a slotted strip (e.g., strip 35) and an optical sensor (e.g., sensor 45) in communication with controller 2102 to ascertain changes in the direction of the swing motion, switch the polarity of electromagnets 41, 42, etc.

[0080] In general, the configuration of device 50, having two electromagnets 41, 42 and three permanent magnets 31-33, generates both greater attractive and repulsive magnetic forces compared to device 10. Therefore, the configuration of device 20 may be employed when greater magnetic force may be required (such as with a heavy seat and / or user), when tighter swing control is required, and / or similar situations. In contrast, for the configuration of device 10, aligning electromagnet 51 with the pivot plane PP and offsetting magnets 52, 53 from the pivot plane PP by a maximum swing angle α (e.g., 20 degrees) can produce operating results similar to device 10, but with fewer parts and therefore lower cost.

[0081] 19 and 20A-20D illustrate another swing device 1900. Unless otherwise noted, like-referenced and named components may be structurally and / or functionally similar to those of device 10 and / or device 50. Device 1900 includes an electromagnet 1941 mounted to swing frame assembly 12 via an inductor bracket 1945. A permanent magnet 1931 is affixed to a magnet bracket 1935 and centered on pivot plane PP. Here, magnet 1931 is a curved magnet also geometrically centered on pivot plane PP, but sized and shaped such that its north pole 1931a and south pole 1931b faces each define an axis angularly separated from pivot plane PP (i.e., an axis perpendicular to the faces of the poles and passing through pivot axis P-P′) and define a maximum swing angle α (e.g., 20 degrees as illustrated in FIG. 19 ). As generally described for device 10 , magnet 1931 and swing arm 1917 can rotate relative to electromagnet 1941 about pivot shaft 1919 .

[0082] FIGS. 20A and 20B illustrate how rightward rotational motion is achieved by energizing electromagnet 1941, such as by applying a −5v voltage to the electromagnet's coil so that the electromagnet has a south pole facing magnet 1931, as illustrated. The south pole of electromagnet 1941 is attracted to north pole 1931a and repelled by south pole 1931b. These attractive and repulsive magnetic forces collectively cause the swing arm assembly to rotate / swing rightward about pivot axis P--P'. Similarly, FIGS. 20C and 20D illustrate how leftward rotational motion is achieved by energizing electromagnet 1941 with an opposite voltage from that in FIGS. 20A and 20B, such as by applying a +5v voltage to the electromagnet's coil so that the electromagnet has a north pole facing magnet 1931, as illustrated. This north pole of electromagnet 1941 is attracted to south pole 1931b and repelled by north pole 1931a. These attractive and repulsive magnetic forces collectively rotate / swing the swing arm assembly counterclockwise about pivot axis P-P'. Figures 19 and 20A-20D illustrate a scenario where a user selects a maximum swing angle α, resulting in maximum alignment between electromagnet 1941 and face / pole 1931a during one-directional swing motion (Figure 20B), and maximum alignment between electromagnet 1941 and face / pole 1931b during one-directional swing motion (Figure 20D). As described above with respect to Figures 13-15, a user can select an angle less than maximum swing angle α, resulting in a lesser degree of alignment between electromagnet 1941 and poles 1931a, 1931b.

[0083] The device 1900 may generate less magnetic force than the devices 10, 50, but may be advantageous when stronger magnets are available, when a reduced housing size (e.g., of the housing 21) is desired, when a lower range of swing angle α is provided, and / or the like.

[0084] Apparatus 10, 50, 1900 capture the general concept that a magnetic drive comprises at least one magnetic component (permanent magnet or electromagnet) coupled to either swing frame assembly 12 or swing arm assembly 15, and at least two magnetic components (permanent magnets or electromagnets) angularly offset from the at least one magnetic component coupled to the other of swing frame assembly 12 or swing arm assembly 15. Apparatus 1900 employs a single magnet 1931 and a single electromagnet 1941, but magnet 1931 is designed with both poles thereof interacting with electromagnet 1941, effectively acting like two magnetic components.

[0085] 12-20 are within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, device 10 may be modified so that electromagnet 51 is formed on swing arm assembly 15 and magnets 52, 53 are formed on frame assembly 12. As another example, a pair of electromagnets may be mounted on swing arm assembly 15 and a single permanent magnet may be mounted on frame assembly 12, with the electromagnets and permanent magnets interspersed as in device 50. As yet another example, two electromagnets may be mounted on frame assembly 12 and a single permanent magnet may be mounted on arm assembly 15.

[0086] Although the design of the exemplary embodiment illustrated in Figures 12-20 has been described, a more generalized magnetic drive may be realized as described herein.

[0087] Generalized Magnetic Drive 31A-31B illustrate a generalized swing apparatus 3110, which may be structurally and / or functionally similar to apparatus 10, unless otherwise noted. Apparatus 3100 includes a base 3113 for stability and a vertical lift frame assembly 3112 connected to a drive / motor 3120. Apparatus 3110 also includes a swing arm assembly 3115 that includes a swing seat 18. Swing arm assembly 3115 is suspended from and rotatably coupled to motor 3115 in a manner that allows the swing arm assembly to swing in a reciprocating, pendulum-like motion.

[0088] FIG. 32 illustrates additional details about the motor 3120, which may include a brushless direct current (DC) motor, or portion thereof, as described herein. A stationary portion / stator 3222 of the motor 3120 is coupled to the frame 3112. A drive shaft 3224 may be disposed at the center of the stator 3222 and coupled to the swing arm assembly 3115, defining an axis of rotation similar to pivot axis P-P′. The stator 3222 includes a set of inductors or electromagnets 3226 (e.g., similar to electromagnet 51) mounted in a rotating array about the drive shaft 3224. The motor 3120 also includes a rotating portion or rotor 3228 including a set of permanent magnets 3230 (e.g., similar to magnets 52, 53) also arranged in a rotating array about the drive shaft 3224, the rotating portion or rotor 3228 being disposed closer to the drive shaft 3224 than the electromagnets 3230.

[0089] 33A-33F illustrate how the number of electromagnets 3226 and magnets 3230 can be selected depending on the desired maximum swing angle, assuming that the swing motion in any one direction does not exceed 90 degrees. FIG. 33A illustrates how, when there are 12 magnets 3230 and 12 electromagnets 3226, the maximum allowable swing angle can be set to 15 degrees, such that the angular separation between adjacent magnets is approximately 30 degrees. FIG. 33B illustrates how, when there are 10 magnets 3230 and 10 electromagnets 3226, the maximum allowable swing angle can be set to 18 degrees, such that the angular separation between adjacent magnets is approximately 36 degrees. FIG. 33C illustrates how, when there are 8 magnets 3230 and 8 electromagnets 3226, the maximum allowable swing angle can be set to 22.5 degrees, such that the angular separation between adjacent magnets is approximately 45 degrees. Figure 33D illustrates how the maximum allowable swing angle can be set to 30 degrees when there are six magnets 3230 and six electromagnets 3226, such that the angular separation between adjacent magnets is approximately 60 degrees. Figure 33E illustrates how the maximum allowable swing angle can be set to 45 degrees when there are four magnets 3230 and four electromagnets 3226, such that the angular separation between adjacent magnets is approximately 90 degrees. Figure 33F illustrates how the maximum allowable swing angle can be set to 90 degrees when there are two magnets 3230 and two electromagnets 3226, such that the angular separation between adjacent magnets is approximately 180 degrees.

[0090] FIG. 34A illustrates how the designs of FIGS. 33A-33F can be minimized to employ a single electromagnet 3226 and a pair of permanent magnets 3230, since each magnet 3230 remains within the angular range subtended by two of its nearest electromagnets 3226. As a result, the rotor can also be minimized to obtain a partial rotor 3428, thus reducing operating weight. For purposes of swing design similar to that illustrated in FIGS. 31A-31B, as illustrated in FIG. 34A for illustrative purposes only, where the pivot axis is generally horizontal or near horizontal, this design may be employed with a 30-degree or 60-degree separation between the magnets 3230 (including all values ​​and subranges therebetween), resulting in a maximum swing angle of 15 degrees or 30 degrees, respectively.

[0091] In other words, the selection of the number of electromagnets, the number of permanent magnets, and the angular separation between adjacent electromagnets / permanent magnets may be based on the angle formed by the pivot axis with respect to the surface on which the swing rests. For example, the embodiment of FIG. 33F may not be suitable for a 90-degree swing angle when the pivot axis is generally horizontal or near horizontal, but may be well suited for a swing having a generally vertical pivot axis. Such a swing may be similar to that illustrated and described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0129994, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0092] Continuing with the optimization described for FIG. 34A, FIG. 34B shows how the stator can also be minimized to obtain a partial stator 3422. Further minimization, part count reduction, and operating weight reduction can be achieved with the design illustrated in FIG. 34C, where the partial stator 3422 is formed as a bracket that suspends the electromagnet 3226 above the partial rotor 3428. The stator 3422, rotor 3428, and swing arm 3115 can all be disposed on the shaft 3224. And, the embodiments of FIGS. 12-20 can be considered exemplary embodiments of the general embodiment of FIG. 34C.

[0093] Controller Circuit and Operation FIG. 21A illustrates a controller circuit 2100 for controlling the operation of any of the swing devices disclosed herein (e.g., devices 10, 50, 1900). While described with reference to device 10 for simplicity, portions / components of circuit 2100 may be formed on circuit board 29, as illustrated in FIG. 3B. Circuit 2100 includes a controller 2102 and may further include a memory or database (not shown) communicatively coupled to the controller. Controller 2102 may be any suitable processing device configured to execute and / or carry out a set of instructions or code associated with device 10. Controller 2102 may be, for example, a general-purpose processor, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), and / or the like.

[0094] The memory / database may comprise, for example, random access memory (RAM), a memory buffer, a hard drive, a database, erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable read-only memory (EEPROM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, and / or the like. The memory / database may store instructions that cause the controller 2102 to perform processes and / or functions associated with the device 10.

[0095] Circuit 2100 may further include a network interface (not shown) for communication with one or more external devices (e.g., remotes, smartphones, other computing devices, and / or the like) and / or virtual assistants (e.g., Amazon Alexa), such as for remote control of apparatus 10. Communication with external devices may be direct, such as via Bluetooth, low-power Bluetooth, near-field communication (NFC), wireless fidelity (WiFi), and / or the like. Additionally or alternatively, communication with external devices may be via one or more networks, such as, for example, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a virtual network, a telecommunications network, and / or the Internet, implemented as a wired and / or wireless network. Any or all communications may be secure (e.g., encrypted) or non-secure, as known in the art.

[0096] The controller 2102 is coupled to the device's power supply 2104, which may be, for example, a mains power source, a battery, a rechargeable battery, and / or the like. By way of example, the controller 2102 receives a 6V DC power input from the power supply 2104. The circuit 2100 also includes a power button 2106 coupled to the controller 2102 (e.g., disposed on the panel 22) to allow a user to power the device 10 on and off. The controller 2102 receives input from a button / switch 24, allowing a user to select device parameters to manipulate, such as swing amplitude, swing duration, music, and / or the like. The controller 2102 also receives input from a dial / knob 25, allowing a user to manipulate selected device parameters, such as the degree of swing (i.e., swing angle α), the length of time the swing is to be performed, and / or the like. 21A also illustrates that controller 2102 can control the operation of visual indicators 26, as well as individual lights (e.g., LEDs) that may be formed on each of buttons 24. Controller 2102 can also control music playback via music driver 2116 of circuit 2100, which is in turn coupled to a speaker disposed on circuit board 29.

[0097] Circuit 2100 includes driver circuit 2120 for controlling and switching the polarity of a voltage signal applied to electromagnet 51, thereby switching the magnetic polarity of the electromagnet. Driver circuit 2120 can be, for example, an H-bridge circuit having an output voltage line to which electromagnet 51 is coupled. When multiple electromagnets (e.g., electromagnets 41, 42) are employed, they can be connected in parallel in the H-bridge circuit with opposite polarities. Generally, whenever multiple electromagnets are employed, adjacent electromagnets can be wired in opposite directions. As a result, the same voltage / polarity applied by circuit 2120 results in electromagnets 41, 42 having opposite magnetic polarities that are switched when the voltage polarity is switched.

[0098] Referring again to the single electromagnet 51 design, also illustrated in Figure 21A, the driver circuit 2120 is also coupled to a power supply 2104 to receive, for example, a 6V signal, which powers the driver circuit 2120 and may also provide a voltage signal to be applied to the electromagnet 51. The voltage signal may be, for example, a pulse width modulated (PWM) signal. Figure 21A also illustrates a communicative coupling between the controller 2102 and the optical sensor 45, allowing the controller 2102 to control the operation of the light source of the optical sensor 45 and also receive detected light signals from the photodetector of the optical sensor 45.

[0099] Swing device 10 may include other components (not shown) readable and / or controllable by controller 2102, such as an ambient light sensor for use in controlling the brightness of any of the LEDs on housing 21 and for turning a night light on and off, a motion sensor for turning the night light on and off when a user approaches, a weight sensor coupled to seat frame 18 for sensing whether the seat is in place and / or whether a child is sitting in the seat, a tilt sensor, gyroscope, and / or gyrometer coupled to seat frame 18 that may be used to turn off device 10 if the tilt or orientation of the seat prevents safe use, and / or one or more reed switches for detecting the position of permanent magnets during the swing motion. For example, one or more reed switches may be disposed on swing frame assembly 12 at a preset angle from pivot plane P-P relative to pivot axis P-P'. When a permanent magnet (e.g., magnets 52, 53) is near the reed switch during the swing motion, this may be detected and used to sense the swing angle at the moment of detection.

[0100] FIG. 21B is a flowchart detailing an exemplary method 2125 that may be executed by circuitry 2100, such as controller 2102, for operating swing device 10. Method 2125 begins at step S1, such as after a user powers on device 10 and selects a swing angle α. In step S2, a check is made to see if the selected swing angle α has changed. When this check is made at least the first time after the user has made a selection (i.e., when the device is stationary and the swing angle is currently 0), the latest value of the swing angle is read in step S3. Step S3 now shows six exemplary values ​​or "set points" (SP) of the swing angle that the user can set, from SP1 at 3 degrees to SP6 at 18 degrees, which is the maximum allowable swing angle. After the set point is determined in S3, in step S4, a maximum value of a voltage signal (e.g., a PWM signal as illustrated in FIG. 21B) is applied to electromagnets 41, 42 having a given (e.g., first) polarity. 13-15, in this manner, electromagnet 51 is energized and, depending on the polarity of the electromagnet, a swinging motion is initiated in one direction or the other (i.e., left or right) without any additional input from the user, i.e., without the user having to push device 10 to initiate the swinging motion or do anything other than provide a set point for the swinging motion. Also, in step S4, a clock or timer (referred to as the "half-period timer" in FIG. 21B) is started to reflect the duration that the voltage signal of a given polarity has been applied.

[0101] The controller 2102 then receives input from the user via the interface panel 22 and then executes an auto-start sequence / loop 2125a that allows the swing apparatus 10 to begin swinging motion without requiring a manual push from the user, as is the case with some conventional devices. The auto-start is effected by an off-axis arrangement of permanent magnets and electromagnets at rest, as illustrated in the embodiments of FIGS. 13, 16, and 19, where powering the electromagnets can substantially instantly create attractive and repulsive forces that can initiate swinging motion. Sequence 2125a includes, in step S5, reading the output of a photodetector, where a "0" reading for a photodetector indicates that its corresponding light beam (e.g., one of beams 46a, 47a) is blocked, and a "1" reading indicates that its corresponding light beam is detected. In step S5, the output or state of at least one photodetector is read. In step S6, it is determined whether the photodetector output has changed. This can be done for one or both photodetectors; i.e., it is not necessary to read the outputs of both photodetectors for the purposes of executing the auto-start sequence 2125a. For simplicity, assume that one photodetector is read in steps S5 and S6; any change in its output indicates any movement of the magnetic drive induced by the application of the maximum voltage signal to the electromagnet in step S4. When the separation between two adjacent slots 36 in the slotted strip 35 is about 2 degrees, the swing motion corresponding to a change of state for the photodetector ranges from just greater than 0 degrees (e.g., when the light beam 46a is positioned adjacent to a slot edge just inside the slot and the swing motion pushes it outside that adjacent slot edge) to about 1 degree (e.g., when the light beam 46a is positioned adjacent to a slot edge just inside the slot and the swing motion moves the light beam 46a across the slot and pushes it outside the opposing slot edge), with an average of about 0.5 degrees, about 1 degree, about 2 degrees, about 3 degrees, about 4 degrees or more, including all values ​​and subranges therebetween.

[0102] If this motion / state change is not detected in step S6, then in step S7, the timer started in step S4 is checked against a predetermined period (illustrated as a "half period" in FIG. 21B) to determine whether the time duration of application of the voltage signal of the first polarity is greater than a period of, for example, 700 ms. Typically, the period can be from about 400 ms to about 900 ms, including all values ​​and subranges therebetween. In some cases, the period can be about 700 ms. If the timer value is greater than or equal to the predetermined period, then in step S8, the polarity of the voltage signal applied to electromagnet 51 is switched, for example, from the polarity of FIG. 14 to the polarity of FIG. 15. In step S9, the timer is reset, and in step S10, control is returned to step S1. By periodically returning control to step S1, as occurs in step S9 and various other times in method 2125 (described below), any user changes to the swing angle / set point can be quickly taken into account in steps S2-S4, and if the user does not make such changes, control returns to auto-start sequence 2125a and proceeds to step S5.

[0103] If the timer value is less than the predetermined period in step S7, the time value continues to increment and the auto-start sequence 2125a loops back to step S5. In this manner, during the auto-start sequence 2125b, the controller 2102 periodically switches the polarity on the electromagnet 51 in step S8 with a periodicity based on the predetermined period until some swing motion is in progress, as detectable in step S5.

[0104] After any swing motion is detected for analysis in step S6, the controller 2102 can execute a swing motion control sequence / loop 2125b. In step S11, the swing angle measurement, which is set to zero at startup (illustrated as "Angle Count" in FIG. 21B), is incremented by one degree as an initial estimate of the swing motion achieved during the auto-start sequence 2125a. The updated swing angle measurement is stored in step S12 for use during a swing angle control sequence / loop 2125c, described below.

[0105] In step S13, the photodetectors of the optical sensor 35 are continuously read or monitored by the controller 2102 to determine the direction of the swing and whether it has changed, as shown in more detail in FIG. 21C. Referring now to FIG. 21C, for ease of explanation, a change in direction is described as the swing motion begins at one end of the swing motion, represented by state 2130a (the "starting point"), where the swing angle is at a maximum and the swing speed is substantially zero. The swing device 10 then moves through state 2130b to state 2130c, where the swing angle is substantially zero and the swing speed is at a maximum. During this movement, the sensing beams 46a, 47a are differently blocked and transmitted by the slotted strip 35, which can be detected by the controller 2102 as a "0" (or "low," when the beam is blocked) or a "1" (or "high," when the beam is unblocked and detectable), as also illustrated in the legend in FIG. 21C. For example, the controller can detect "10" (generally illustrated as read / read block 2135a) when the swing motion is between states 2130a and 2130b, i.e., when beam 46a is not blocked and beam 47a is blocked.

[0106] The swing motion then continues from reading "11" to reading "01" (see readout 2135b), to "00", and then back to "10" (see readout 2135c). As the swing motion speeds up from state 2130a through 2130b to 2130c, readout 2135c has a shorter duration (i.e., a decreased thickness, as illustrated in FIG. 21C) than 2135a, and readout 2135d has an even shorter duration due to the swing motion being at its highest speed in state 2130c.

[0107] As illustrated in the legend of FIG. 21C, any one of these transitions between readouts can be used to confirm the direction of the swing motion. When the readout subsequently transitions in the opposite direction, i.e., from "10" to "00," "01," "11," and back to "10," as illustrated in readout block 2135e, it can be determined that the swing motion is in the opposite direction (here, from state 2130e to state 2130f). In this manner, the sizing of the slots in the slotted strip 35 and the separation Cs-Cs' between the beams 46a, 47a can be selected so that there is one complete slot 36 between the beams 46a, 47a, thus enabling readout-based direction determination as described herein. Furthermore, a change in the readout of only one of the beams 46a, 47a is sufficient to determine the swing direction. As described above with respect to the auto-start sequence 2125a, this determination can be made, on average, within approximately 0.5 degrees to 4 degrees of the swing motion.

[0108] Thus, the controller 2102 can determine that a direction change (e.g., from clockwise / CW to counterclockwise / CCW or vice versa) has occurred when the cyclic transition between readouts is reversed. As illustrated in readout block 2135f, the direction is reversed when the swing motion is in state 2130e. This is detected by the controller 2102 as a transition from "10" to "11" and then back to "10." On the other hand, if there was no direction change, the transition would have been from "10" to "11" to "01," i.e., a transition similar to that described for readouts 2135a, 2135b above.

[0109] FIG. 21C also generally illustrates the concept of a half-period 2140 (e.g., approximately 300 ms, approximately 500 ms, approximately 700 ms, approximately 900 ms, approximately 1 s, approximately 1.2 s, approximately 1.5 s as illustrated, including all values ​​and subranges therebetween), which is the time it takes during steady-state motion to move from one end of the motion (state 2130a), through swing angle α to the center (state 2130c), and through swing angle α to the other end of the motion (state 2130e). It then takes another half-period for the motion to proceed from state 2130e through state 2130f to center 2130g, and then through state 2130h back to state 2130a. The determination of a swing direction change, a fleeting momentary state that occurs during a half-period, is typically made at the beginning of the next half-period, as this is when a reversal of the readout is detectable as described above for read block 2135f.

[0110] 21B, if there is no swing direction change determined in step S13, then in step S15 control returns to step S1, which is useful to re-evaluate whether the user has changed the swing set point, as previously explained. Because the device is now in motion and the motion detection criteria in step S6 are easily met, control quickly returns to motion control sequence 2125b, where the swing angle measurement continues to be incremented in step S11 as the device 10 continues to swing in the same direction.

[0111] If a swing direction change is determined in step S13, the swing angle measurement is reset to zero in step S14. Since the device 10 is then swinging in the opposite direction, the polarity of the electromagnet 51 may be switched (e.g., between FIG. 14 and FIG. 15), which is done in step S18 in a manner similar to that described for step S8. The controller 2102 can then execute a swing angle control sequence / loop 2125c to determine whether the degree of swing motion meets the set value specified by the user in step S3, which is accomplished as follows: In step S19, the stored value of the swing angle measurement from step S12 (since the current value of the swing angle measurement was reset in step S17) is compared to the desired set value specified in step S3. If the swing angle measurement equals or exceeds the desired set value, this indicates that the swing motion has exceeded or will exceed the value specified by the user. In such a scenario, in step S20, the voltage signal (e.g., PWM signal) applied to the electromagnet is set to zero and / or turned off to allow the swing motion to decay spontaneously. In step S21, control then returns to step S1.

[0112] If, in step S19, it is determined that the swing angle measurement is less than the set point specified by the user in step S3, this indicates that the swing device 10 is still attempting to obtain angular motion toward achieving the desired set point, but has not yet done so. In such a scenario, the controller 2102 can execute a control loop 2125cl that modulates the voltage signal applied to the electromagnet 51 with the goal of obtaining an oscillating convergence between the swing angle measurement and the desired set point over time, while accounting for and allowing for a gradual buildup of swing motion toward the desired swing angle. In this manner, the voltage signal applied to the electromagnet 51 when the polarity is changed will account for the last swing motion completed in a particular direction.

[0113] Control loop 2125cl, illustrated and described here as a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control loop, may be any other suitable feedback loop (e.g., controlled damping) capable of estimating the magnitude of the voltage signal to be applied to electromagnet 51 to reduce the difference between the desired set point and the observed swing angle. Here, in step S22, a difference or error value is calculated as the difference between the desired set point and the observed swing angle. This error value is then multiplied in step S23a by a predetermined proportionality coefficient K p Typically, the calculated proportional term is based on the current error value, i.e., the error value calculated immediately before step S22. The error value is used to calculate the proportional term based on a predetermined integral coefficient K i The control sequence 2125c is also used to calculate an integral term in step S23b based on the error value. Typically, the calculated integral term is based on the current error value and past error values, i.e., values ​​calculated immediately prior to step S22 and even in step S22 in previous executions of the control sequence 2125c. In some cases, the control sequence 2125c may also include calculating a derivative term in step S23c based on the error value, reflecting the rate of change of the error value. The terms calculated in steps S23a, S23b, and optionally S23c are then summed in step S24 to generate a control output. In step S25, the control output, along with the change in polarity effected in step S18, is employed to determine the magnitude of the voltage signal to be applied to the electromagnet 51. In step S26, control is returned to step S1.

[0114] In this manner, embodiments of method 2125 are useful for achieving and maintaining a desired swing angle without the need to ascertain the center of swing motion based on detecting a change in direction, as is common in conventional approaches. This is particularly beneficial when swing device 10 may be placed on an inclined, tilted, and / or generally uneven surface, and the center of swing motion may differ from the geometric center of the device. In some cases, device 10 does not detect and / or otherwise assess the speed of the swing motion.

[0115] 21D illustrates a control sequence / loop 2150 that can be executed by controller 2102 to manage swing control. Unless otherwise noted, aspects of the control sequence may be similar to control sequence 2125c1 and other aspects of method 2125. In step SS1, a desired swing angle, set point, or "desired" amplitude 2155 pre-selected by a user (e.g., in step S3) is compared to the observed swing or output swing amplitude 2140 determined based on optical sensor 45 to generate an error value 2115. As described above for FIG. 21B, if swing amplitude 2140 is equal to or greater than the desired swing angle, power to the electromagnet may be turned off. If the swing amplitude is less than the desired swing angle, the error may be input into a PID algorithm, and coefficients 2170 (integral coefficient 2170a, proportional coefficient 2170b, derivative coefficient 2170c) are combined with proportional, integral, and derivative terms 2175a, 2175b, 2175c, respectively, to generate an indication of output voltage and / or input power (e.g., a relatively increased input PWM duty cycle) 2182 that may be applied to electromagnet 51 in step SS2. This may increase swing amplitude 2190 until setpoint amplitude 2155 is reached.

[0116] Swing Base 36A-36H illustrate how a connection may be made between a swing frame arm 3614 (e.g., similar to frame arm 14) and a base member 3613 (e.g., similar to base member 13). FIG. 36D illustrates details of a stalk 3620 that may be inserted into the base member 3613 and, in turn, receive the frame arm 3614. Specifically, a first end 3624a of the stalk 3620 may receive the frame arm 3614, and the other / second end 3624b may be sized and configured for insertion into the base member 3613.

[0117] Referring to the connection between the stalk 3620 and the base member 3513, the stalk 3620 may include a tab 3626 formed on its second end 3624b. The base member 3613 may include a stalk opening 3630 to receive the second end 3624b and allow the second end to be inserted and fitted within the interior volume of the base member 3613. More or fewer tabs may be employed, and in some cases, no tabs may be present.

[0118] The base member 3613 also includes a pair of tab openings 3628 through which the tabs 3626 can pass. The number of tab openings may generally be selected based on the number of tabs, and if there are no tabs there may be no tab openings or there may be only one opening substantially similar to the stalk opening 3630.

[0119] After insertion, a first weld 3621a (e.g., a circumferential weld) may be formed at the stalk opening 3630 between the stalk opening and the body of the stalk 3620, and a second pair of welds 3621b may be formed between the tabs 3626 and the tab openings 3621b, thereby securing the stalk 3620 to the base member 3513. As best illustrated in FIG. 36H , upon insertion, the stalk 3620, or at least the portion of the stalk 3620 that engages the base member 3513 as illustrated, may be disposed at a Stoke angle β relative to a normal axis N, where axis N is perpendicular to the surface on which the base member 3613 rests. The Stoke angle β may be about 5 degrees, about 10 degrees, about 15 degrees, about 20 degrees, about 25 degrees, or more, including all values ​​and subranges therebetween.

[0120] During assembly by a user, as described in more detail in the next section, a user can insert the frame arm 3614 into the first end 3624a of the stalk 3620. The frame arm 3614 and stalk 3620 can be sized so that the inserted frame arm 3614 can move and snap into the interior of the stalk 3620 until it engages a ledge 3623 in the stalk 3620, preventing the swing frame arm 3614 from moving further into the stalk. The ledge 3623 also includes a notch formed on the outer surface of the stalk 3620, which can act as a visual guide to instruct the user to properly insert the stalk 3620 into the base member 3513.

[0121] The stalk 3620 may be formed with a pair of stalk holes 3622 to allow for insertion of a bolt during assembly. The stalk holes 3624 may be substantially round, as illustrated. Similarly, the frame arm 3614 may be formed with a pair of arm holes 3634 that can align with the stalk holes 3622 after the swing arm 3614 is inserted into the stalk 3620 to engage the ledge 3623. As best illustrated in FIG. 36G , the arm hole 3634 facing the center of the swing device may be shaped to prevent the bolt 3632b from rotating after being inserted through the stalk hole 3622 and arm hole 3634. By way of example, the arm hole 3634 is illustrated as being square or rectangular in shape.

[0122] Each of the bolt assemblies 3632 may include a first bolt 3632a, which may include a head and external threads, and a second bolt 3632b, which may include a head and internal threads that can receive and mate with the external threads of its corresponding first bolt 3632a during assembly. The second bolt 3632b may also include a shaped ridge 3633 that engages with the arm hole 3624 to prevent rotation of the second bolt 3632b after insertion. This allows a user to thread the corresponding first bolt 3632a without having to hold the second bolt 3632a in place after the second bolt 3632b is in place.

[0123] When the bolt assembly 3632 is tightened (e.g., by threading the first bolt 3632a into the second bolt 3632b), pressure is applied to the swing frame arm 3614, causing it to expand within the stalk 3620, which in turn can form a tighter, more rigid connection between the swing frame arm 3614 and the stalk 3620, and with the base member 3613. The tight connection between the swing frame arm 3614 and the stalk 3620 also prevents or reduces rotational losses during swing motion.

[0124] FIG. 36A illustrates how, after assembly, the connection is covered with a cover 3618 (e.g., a plastic cover) that substantially encapsulates the stalk 3620 to prevent any damage from mechanical shock or other issues.

[0125] Swing Stability FIG. 37 illustrates how the stalk angle β and the curved design of the swing frame arms 14 allow for a relatively small base member 13 while providing a structurally sound design for the swing apparatus 10. A smaller base member 13 can include a base member having a shorter width, shorter length, smaller circumference, and / or less area than a corresponding design including a straight frame arm 14. The base member 13 defines a vertical footprint FP on the flat floor / surface / ground upon which it rests; i.e., the footprint FP can be thought of as a vertical projection of the frame of the base member 13 extending directly upward from the floor. The swing frame arms can be thought of as including two curved, generally continuous portions 14a, 14b, as illustrated. The first swing arm portion 14a defines a stalk angle β at its interconnection with the stalk 3620 and curves away from the footprint FP such that portion 14a extends completely outside the footprint. The second swing arm portion 14b curves back toward the footprint FP. 37 illustrates that the entire second swing arm portion 14b and a portion of the housing 21 are outside the footprint FP. In some cases, at least a portion of the second swing arm portion 14b may be inside the footprint FP, thereby allowing the entire housing 21 to be within the footprint FP.

[0126] The curvature of the frame arms 14 also allows for the curvature of the swing arms 17 as illustrated, which in turn allows the seat 18 to be positioned relatively close to the center of the swing device 10. The use of a single frame arm 14, as opposed to two or more swing arms as in some conventional approaches, minimizes any space issues caused by the frame arms curving outward from the base. Additionally, the curved frame arms 14 and curved swing arms 17 provide sufficient clearance for loading and unloading the seat 18, yet still allow the user interface panel 14 to be positioned further back within the footprint FP, where it can be easily accessed by an adult / caregiver.

[0127] The curved frame arms 14 (and optionally the curvature of swing arms 17) not only allow for a smaller footprint FP of base member 13, but nevertheless maintain the overall center of gravity of swing apparatus 10 at a location closer to (e.g.) the geometric center of the footprint compared to the use of (e.g.) straight frame arms. Stability is established and maintained when seat 18 extends outside of footprint FP in the rest position as illustrated, when a child / user is disposed within seat 18, when seat 18 is repositioned to rest on its side, and even when seat 18 moves further outside footprint FP during a swing motion.

[0128] More specifically, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 37, the base member 13 has a footprint area FP and a base width BM. W , and base depth BM D At rest, at least a portion of the seat 18 is positioned at a depth BM of the base member 13. D During the swinging motion, the horizontal movement of the seat 18 (i.e., the swinging motion as projected onto the floor on which the swing rests) results in an additional portion of the seat 18 extending outwardly of the footprint FP along at least the width BM at the end of the swinging motion. W The swing angle α may move outside of the footprint FP along the axis FP. In some cases, the maximum swing angle α may be limited so that the seat 18 does not swing outside of the footprint FP at the end of the swing motion. In some cases, the horizontal movement or lateral distance between the ranges of the swing motion may be about 1 foot, about 1.5 feet, about 2 feet, about 2.5 feet, about 3 feet, or more, including all values ​​and subranges therebetween.

[0129] These described features of the swing also narrow the separation between the center of gravity of the swing with the user / child seated in seat 18 and the axis of rotation defined by seat 18. For purposes of illustration only, and recognizing that the center of gravity of device 10 need not lie within a component of the device, FIG. 37 illustrates an exemplary center of gravity CG of the swing and the axis of rotation RA--RA' defined by seat 18. Even when an anthropomorphic test device (ATD) is disposed in seat 18, the linear separation / offset D between CG and axis RA--RA' is small. CG-RA may be at most 0.5 inches, at most 1 inch, at most 1.5 inches, at most 2 inches, at most 5 inches, including all values ​​and subranges therebetween.

[0130] Due at least in part to all of these features, the swing device 10 is able to maintain an upright positioning without tipping over when placed on a surface inclined at 20 degrees and an ATD (e.g., a newborn test dummy according to American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) specifications, a 6-month-old infant test dummy, and / or the like) is disposed in the seat 18.

[0131] Assembling the swing device To enable user self-assembly, a swing apparatus as disclosed herein may be manufactured, packaged, sold, and / or delivered as a kit including multiple components with instructions for user assembly. While described with reference to swing apparatus 10 for simplicity, the kit may include a first component including swing frame assembly 12 with magnetic drive unit 20 already mounted thereon. Given the tight, critical connection between frame assembly 12 and magnetic drive unit 20, this minimizes any user error and potential damage when assembling these components. Magnetic drive unit 20 may have hub 16 already coupled thereto.

[0132] The first component may also include a power supply circuit, such as, for example, a power cable 3616 with a wall plug or adapter (see FIGS. 36A-36H), which may be used to connect the magnetic drive unit 20 to a wall power socket. The power cable 3616 may be partially disposed within the hollow shield 49, pass through the swing frame assembly 12, and exit the assembly near the base of the assembly, i.e., near the floor / surface on which the swing apparatus 10 rests. Disposing the power supply / circuitry entirely within the first component in this manner prevents a user from touching the magnetic drive unit components and ensures that the user has no difficulty in powering the magnetic drive unit 20.

[0133] The first component may also include a cover 3618 that is pre-disposed on the frame arm 14 (e.g., taped or otherwise held in place on the frame arm in a position above the arm hole 3634). In this manner, after the caregiver bolts the frame arm 14 to the stalk 3620, the cover can be slid down to cover the stalk.

[0134] The kit may further include a swing arm 17 as a second separate component that may be coupled to the magnetic drive 20, and more specifically to the hub 16. Additionally, the kit may include a seat / seat frame 18 as a third separate component that may then be latched into place by a user, as described with respect to Figures 26A-26C.

[0135] In some cases, to facilitate assembly by the user, there is no electrical coupling between the first component and other components. For example, by eliminating the need for an electrical coupling between the first component and the seat 18, the user does not have to deal with running wires through the hub 16, swing arm 17, etc. If the seat 18 has power requirements, such as, for example, a motor drive for vibrating the seat 18 during use (or more generally, any power-consuming component), the seat 18 can include its own power source that is independent of the power supply circuit of the first component. For example, the seat 18 can be configured to use AA batteries, AAA batteries, a plug-in power input, and / or the like to power the power-consuming components. The kit can include such an additional power source.

[0136] The kit can also include the base member 13 as a single base (e.g., as a fourth component) or as two base portions of generally the same or different sizes (e.g., as a fourth component and a fifth component). For example, each base piece can be generally C-shaped and have a telescoping end that mates with the telescoping end of the other base piece. As described above with respect to FIGS. 36A-36H, the base member 13 can include a stalk welded therein, such as stalk 3620, that can serve as a receiver for the swing frame arm 14 of the swing frame assembly 12. The kit can also include additional components, such as, for example, bolt 3632a, bolt 3632b, and / or the like.

[0137] Glide swing with magnetic drive 22A and 22B show a glide swing device 2200 having a magnetic drive and control unit as described herein. Unless otherwise noted, similarly referenced and named components may be structurally and / or functionally similar to those of any other device disclosed herein, such as device 10. Device 2200 includes a frame 2220 that holds and / or otherwise supports seat 2210, an arm 2230, and a set of two housings 2240 suspended from frame 2220. As illustrated in FIGS. 22A, 22B, and 23A, magnetic drive unit 2235 is disposed inside one of the housings 2240. Although magnetic drive portion 2235 is illustrated as having two magnets 2260 and one electromagnet 2265 (similar to device 10), it is understood that magnetic drive portion 2235 may be formed as having three magnets and two electromagnets as described with respect to Figures 16-18, as having one curved magnet and one electromagnet as described with respect to Figures 19 and 20A-20D, and / or the like.

[0138] As illustrated, magnetic drive 2235 can drive one of four swing arms 2230 suspended from frame 2220, although it is understood that two or more of the swing arms 2230 can be attached to magnetic drive 2235 and multiple magnetic drive units can be employed to drive two or more swing arms. For example, a magnetic drive unit 2235 can be disposed within each housing 2240.

[0139] 23B illustrates one swing arm 2230 rotatably coupled to the frame 2220 about two bearings (not shown) mounted on the pivot shaft 2250 and the housing 2240. As with device 10, the electromagnets 2265 are disposed on the pivot axis P--P', and the permanent magnets 2260 are each angularly spaced apart from the pivot axis P--P' by a swing angle α. This rotatable coupling allows the glider swing arm 2230 to freely pivot and swing from front to back or back to front in a reciprocating gliding motion relative to the glider swing frame 2220 as generally illustrated by the circular arc GS (see FIG. 23A).

[0140] An electromagnet 2265 is mounted to the glider frame 2220 via a housing 2240, and a magnet 2260 is mounted to a magnet bracket 2245, which is in turn also coupled to the swing arm 2230. Similar to device 10, an encoder strip 2270 having multiple slots is connected to the bracket 2245 or one of the magnets 2260. An optical sensor 2275 is mounted to the glider housing 2240 and may be generally similar to sensor 35.

[0141] In use, such as when a user initiates operation of swing apparatus 2200 via a user interface (not shown), electromagnet 2265 is energized in a cyclical manner similar to that described for apparatus 10. This causes swing arm 2230 to rotate through swing angle α (shown for rightward direction R in FIG. 23B ), which in turn causes the swing apparatus to rock seat 2210 back and forth along arc GS as illustrated in FIG. 23B by rotation of swing arm 2230 and corresponding longitudinal axis G--G', which passes through pivot axis P--P', in the rightward direction R through swing angle α. As with apparatus 10, a controller similar to controller 2102 controls and monitors operation of magnetic drive 2235.

[0142] Swing device with removable seat 25A-25D illustrate a swing device 2500 that includes a removable seat 2518. Unless otherwise noted, like-referenced and named components may be structurally and / or functionally similar to those of any other device disclosed herein, such as, for example, device 10.

[0143] As a preliminary matter, while the seat 2518 is illustrated as being positioned so that the child / user in the seat faces away from the swing arm assembly 2512 during use, it is understood that the seat may be repositionable, i.e., removable and reattachable, so that the child / user faces a different direction. For example, the seat may be positioned as illustrated, or sideways so that the swing arm assembly 2512 is to the left or right of the child / user during use. The seat 2518 may also include a bouncer mechanism, such as, for example, a spring-like mechanism that allows the seat to rebound / bounce back and forth when an adult / caregiver pulls the seat forward until the motion is damped. The seat 2518 may also include an adjustable recline feature (e.g., between three recline positions).

[0144] The seat 2518 can be attached to a swing arm 2517 (FIG. 25B) or used as a stand-alone seat (FIG. 25A). The seat 2518 includes a seat mount / connector 2520a that can be aligned with a swing mount / connector 2520b for removably attaching the seat to the swing arm 2517. While the mount 2520b is illustrated as a plug-like connector and the mount 2520a is illustrated as a receptacle-like connector, the reverse is possible, and generally any other suitable mating connector design can be employed. Once attached to the swing mount 2520b, the seat 2518 is reversibly latched and / or otherwise secured in place and cannot be removed unless the latch / fastener is released. FIGS. 25C-25D illustrate additional details of the latching mechanism of the seat 2518, in which the soft article, toy bar, swing arm, and seat base are concealed. The operation of the latching mechanism will be explained with reference to Figures 25A-25D and 26A-26C, which also illustrate additional details of the mounts 2520a, 2520b that enable the latching.

[0145] The latch / latch mechanism is pivotally coupled to the seat ring 2530 and comprises an actuator / switch 2545 (e.g., a depressible button, lever, slider, and / or the like) that allows a caregiver / user to activate the latch / fastener 2555. A cable 2550 is connected to the switch 2545 at one end and routed to the mount 2520a through a curved tube 2535 that curves to accommodate a child during use and serves to connect the seat ring 2530 to the seat mount 2520a. The latch mechanism is illustrated here as a single mechanism formed on one of the tubes 2535 of the seat 2518, but it will be understood that it may similarly be formed on the opposing tube of the seat (see FIGS. 25C, 25D).

[0146] The second end of the cable 2550 is attached to a latch 2555, illustrated here as a V-shaped fastener that pivots about its base 2555a; i.e., the base is rotatably fixed to the seat mount 2520a, allowing the latch 2555 to rotate back and forth when the caregiver squeezes and releases the switch 2545. The V-shaped latch 2555 includes a first arm 2555b and a second arm 2555c. The second end of the cable 2550 is attached to a hook end 2555d of the second arm 2555c. When the seat 2518 is attached to the rest of the apparatus (see FIG. 26B), the user does not engage the switch 2545, and the latch 2555 is held against the swing mount 2520b by pressure exerted by the first arm 2555b, which may be a resiliently flexible finger / spring. The second arm 2555b of the latch 2555 protrudes into a latch pocket 2560 formed on the swing mount 2520b, which prevents the swing arm mount 2520b from separating and / or pulling away from the seat mount 2520a (FIG. 26B). To remove the seat 2518 from the seat mount 2520a, a caregiver can squeeze or otherwise engage the switch 2555, then pull the cable 2550, and then pull the latch arm 2555c away from the latch pocket 2560. Once the latch 2555 is disengaged in this manner, the swing mount 2520b and seat mount 2520a can be separated (FIG. 26C).

[0147] Magnet Design 27A and 27B illustrate how a flat-faced permanent magnet, such as magnets 52 and 53 illustrated with device 10, may not maintain a consistent air gap with an electromagnet. Stated another way, a magnet moving along an arc and the flat surfaces on the opposing electromagnet result in differential spacing between them, not only for different ranges of alignment but also between different portions of their respective poles / faces. As shown in these figures, as magnet 2732 rotates about pivot axis P--P' and crosses the opposing face of electromagnet 2741, the variation in the air / separation gap AG therebetween can vary within ±0.025 inches depending on the rotational positions of magnet 2732 and permanent magnet 2741. The variable air gap between the permanent magnet and electromagnet can result in a variable magnetic force between them that decreases at points and times when the air gap is larger, and vice versa.

[0148] FIG. 28 illustrates an exemplary approach for eliminating and / or minimizing variations in air gap A G. Here, it is illustrated that any of magnets 2731-2733 may be modified to include a curved surface 2835, resulting in magnet design 2831 (here). The curvature of curved surface 2835 may be generally concentric with pivot axis P-P′. The separation gap A G between magnet 2831 and electromagnet 2742 is then substantially constant, approximately 0.050 inches, as magnet 2831 rotates about the pivot axis. In some cases, electromagnet 2742 may also have a corresponding curvature that is concentric with pivot axis P-P′, which may further add uniformity to the magnetic interaction between magnet 2831 and electromagnet 2742.

[0149] FIG. 29 illustrates additional designs and design variations of exemplary magnet 2731 that can help maintain a consistent air gap AG. Magnet 2831 includes a curved surface 2835, as described for FIG. 28. Magnet 2841 has a chamfered surface 2845, i.e., instead of a smooth, continuous curved surface, the surface is composed of multiple planar components that meet at edges to define a discontinuous curved surface. In another design, magnet 2851 includes a curved surface as well as holes 2855 for screwing magnet 2851 onto the frame / support of the magnetic drive unit as described herein. FIG. 29 also illustrates magnets 2831, 2841, and 2861 as having detents / ribs 2848 on their top surfaces without any portion protruding beyond the curved surface of the magnet. Magnet 2861 may be similar to magnet 2831 with curved surface 2835 except that ribs 2858 on magnet 2861 are formed on a different side relative to magnet 2831. As illustrated in FIG. 29 for magnet 2831, detents 2848 may engage containment ribs 2865 of the magnetic drive to hold magnet 2831 securely in place during use.

[0150] FIG. 30 illustrates that, instead of a magnet formed with a curved surface, a curved metal cap 3050 can be employed as a lid to cover the flat surface of a permanent magnet. In this manner, an existing flat-surfaced magnet can be converted into a curved-surfaced magnet for use in a magnetic drive unit as disclosed herein, allowing for a consistent separation gap AG between the magnet and the electromagnet in the magnetic drive unit. The metal cap 3050 can be sized and shaped to form a detent 3048 on the flat surface of the magnet after assembly, which is useful for securing the magnet to the magnetic drive unit assembly, as described with respect to FIG. 29 . While illustrated here to result in a magnet with a curved surface similar to magnet 2831 in FIG. 29 , it will be understood that such a cap could be designed to form magnets 2841, 2851, and / or 2861.

[0151] conclusion While various inventive embodiments have been described and illustrated herein, those skilled in the art will readily contemplate various other means and / or structures for performing the functions and / or obtaining the results and / or one or more of the advantages described herein, and each such variation and / or modification is deemed to be within the scope of the inventive embodiments described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are exemplary, and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and / or configurations are intended to depend on the particular application or applications for which the inventive teachings are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize or be able to ascertain, using no more than routine experimentation, numerous equivalents to the specific inventive embodiments described herein. Accordingly, it will be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only, and that, within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents, inventive embodiments may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Inventive embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and / or method described herein. Additionally, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and / or methods is included within the inventive scope of the present disclosure, unless such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and / or methods are mutually inconsistent.

[0152] Also, various inventive concepts may be embodied as one or more methods, examples of which are provided. The activities performed as part of a method may be ordered in any suitable manner. Thus, embodiments may be constructed in which activities are performed in an order different from that illustrated, which may include performing some activities simultaneously even though shown as sequential activities in the exemplary embodiments.

[0153] All definitions as defined and used herein should be understood to govern dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and / or ordinary meanings of the defined words.

[0154] The indefinite articles "a" and "an," as used in the specification and claims, should be understood to mean "at least one," unless otherwise indicated.

[0155] The phrase "and / or," as used in the specification and claims, should be understood to mean "either or both" of the elements so conjoined, i.e., the elements are present conjunctively in some cases and disjunctively in other cases. Multiple elements listed with "and / or" should be construed in the same manner, i.e., "one or more" of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the "and / or" section, whether related or unrelated to the elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to "A and / or B," when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as "comprising," may, in one embodiment, refer to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, refer to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, refer to both A and B (optionally including other elements); and so forth.

[0156] As used in this specification and in the claims, "or" should be understood to have the same meaning as "and / or," as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, "or" or "and / or" shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., including at least one, but also including a plurality, of a number of elements or a list of elements and, optionally, additional unlisted items. Conversely, when used only in words expressly designated as "only one" or "exactly one," or in the claims, "consisting of" refers to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number of elements or a list of elements. In general, the word "or" as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e., "one or the other, but not both") when accompanied by terms of exclusivity, such as "either," "one of," "only one of," or "exactly one of." "Consisting essentially of," when used in the claims, shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

[0157] As used in this specification and in the claims, the phrase "at least one" in reference to a list of one or more elements should be understood to mean at least one element selected from one or more of the elements in the list of elements, and not necessarily including at least one of every element specifically listed in the list of elements, or excluding any combination of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows for elements, optionally, to be present other than those specifically identified in the list of elements to which the phrase "at least one" refers, whether related or unrelated to the elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, "at least one of A and B" (or, equivalently, "at least one of A or B," or, equivalently, "at least one of A and / or B") may refer, in one embodiment, to at least one A, optionally including a plurality, and no B (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one B, optionally including a plurality, and no A (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one A, optionally including a plurality, and at least one B, optionally including a plurality (and optionally including other elements);

[0158] In the claims, as well as in the above specification, all transitional phrases such as "comprise," "comprise," "carry," "have," "include," "accompany," "hold," "consisting of," and similar phrases, shall be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional phrases "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of" shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively, as set forth in U.S. Manual of Patent Examining Procedures Chapter 2111.03. [Explanation of symbols]

[0159] 10 Swing Device 12 Swing Frame Assembly 13 Base / Base Material 14 Frame Arm 14a Rotating member, first swing arm portion 14b Second swing arm section 15 Swingarm assembly 16 Hub 17 Swingarm 18 seats / seat frames 19 Pivot Shaft 20 Magnetic drive unit 21 Housing 22 User Interface Panel 22a surface 23 Control Unit 24 Preset application or function selection buttons / switches 25 Dial 26 Visual Indicators 27 Bearings 28 Opening 29 Circuit Board 31 Permanent magnets 32 Permanent magnets 33 Permanent magnets 35 Strip 36 slots 37 Main body part 40 Frame arm part 41 Electromagnet 42 Electromagnet 45 Optical Sensor 46 Sensing bracket 46a Sensing Beam 47 Sensing Bracket 47a Sensing Beam 49 Hollow Shield 51 Electromagnet 51f side 52 Permanent Magnets 52f side 53 Permanent Magnets 151 Electromagnet or Inductor Bracket 152 Permanent magnet bracket 1900 Swing Device 1917 swingarm 1919 Axis Shaft 1931 Permanent magnet 1931a N pole 1931b S pole 1935 Magnetic Bracket 1941 Electromagnet 1945 Inductor Bracket 2100 Controller Circuit 2102 Controller 2104 Power supply 2106 Power button 2115 Error value 2116 Music Driver 2120 Drive circuit 2125a Auto Start Sequence / Loop 2125b Auto Start Sequence 2125c Swing Angle Control Sequence / Loop 2125cl control loop 2130a Status 2130b Status 2130c Status 2130e Status 2130f Status 2130g center 2130h Status 2135a Read / Read Block 2135b Read 2135c Read 2135d Read 2135e Read Block 2135f Read Block 2140 Observed or output swing amplitude 2155 Desired swing angle, set point, or "desired" amplitude 2170 coefficient 2170a integral coefficient 2170b Proportionality coefficient 2170c Differential Coefficient 2175a Proportional term 2175b Integral term 2175c Differential term 2182 Output voltage and / or input power 2200 Glide Swing Device 2210 sheets 2220 Glider Swing Frame 2230 Glider Swingarm 2235 Magnetic drive unit 2240 Housing 2245 Magnetic Bracket 2250 pivot shaft 2260 Permanent Magnet 2265 Electromagnet 2270 Encoder Strip 2275 Optical Sensor 2500 Swing Device 2512 Swingarm Assembly 2517 Swingarm 2518 Removable Seat 2520a Seat Mount / Connector 2520b Swing Mount / Connector 2530 seat ring 2535 curved tube 2545 Actuator / Switch 2550 Cable 2555 Latches / Fasteners 2555a base 2555b First Arm 2555c Second Arm 2555d Hook end 2560 Latch Pocket 2731 Magnet 2732 Magnet 2733 Magnet 2741 Permanent magnets, electromagnets 2742 Electromagnet 2831 magnet design 2835 curved surface 2841 Magnet 2845 Chamfered surface 2848 Detent / Rib 2851 Magnet 2855 holes 2858 Rib 2861 Magnet 2865 Confinement Rib 3048 Detent 3050 curved metal cap 3110 Swing device 3112 Vertical Lift Frame Assembly 3113 Base 3115 Swingarm Assembly 3120 Drive unit / motor 3222 Stationary part / stator 3224 Drive shaft 3226 Electromagnet 3228 Rotating parts or rotors 3230 Electromagnet 3422 Partial Stator 3428 Partial Rotor 3513 Base material 3521 Housing 3522 User Panel 3522a surface 3524 Select button 3525 Dial 3526 Light Panel 3530 Cavity or pocket 3532a First Bolt 3535 depression 3613 Base material 3614 Swing Frame Arm 3616 Power Cable 3618 Cover 3620 Stoke 3621a First Weld 3621b Second Weld 3622 Stoke hole 3623 protrusion 3624 Stoke hole 3624a first end 3624b other / second end 3626 tabs 3628 Tab opening 3630 Stoke opening 3632 Bolt Assembly 3632a First Bolt 3632b Bolt 3632b Second Bolt 3633 Ridge 3634 Arm hole

Claims

1. A swing device (10), a controller (2102) for controlling the movement of at least a portion of the swing device (10); a plurality of optical sensors (46, 47) coupled to the controller (2102), a first light source emitting a first light beam (46a) propagating along a first optical path; a first detector spaced from the first light source and disposed in the first optical path to detect the first light beam (46a); a second light source that emits a second light beam (47a) along a second optical path that is substantially parallel to the first optical path and offset from the first optical path by a separation distance; a second detector spaced from the second light source and disposed in the second optical path to detect the second light beam; Equipped with a plurality of optical sensors (46, 47); an optical encoder strip (35) disposed within the first optical path and the second optical path to facilitate detection of the movement of at least the portion of the swing device; A swing device (10) comprising:

2. an arm assembly including a seat, the optical encoder strip being mechanically coupled to the arm assembly; a frame assembly coupled to the arm assembly and defining a pivot axis about which the arm assembly rotates during movement of the swing device, the plurality of optical sensors being mechanically coupled to the frame assembly; The swing device of claim 1 further comprising:

3. 3. The swing apparatus of claim 2, wherein the optical encoder strip is a curved slotted strip having a curvature about the pivot axis.

4. The swing apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the optical encoder strip is fixed to the arm assembly.

5. 2. The swing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first light source and the second light source are configured such that the first light beam and the second light beam are centered about a pivot axis about which the arm assembly rotates.

6. A swing device (10), a controller (2102) for controlling the movement of at least a portion of the swing device (10); a plurality of optical sensors (46, 47) coupled to the controller (2102), a first light source emitting a first light beam (46a) propagating along a first optical path; a first detector spaced from the first light source and disposed in the first optical path to detect the first light beam (46a); a second light source that emits a second light beam (47a) along a second optical path that is substantially parallel to the first optical path and offset from the first optical path by a separation distance; a second detector spaced from the second light source and disposed in the second optical path to detect the second light beam; Equipped with a plurality of optical sensors (46, 47); a slotted strip (35) disposed within the first and second optical paths to facilitate detection of the movement of at least the portion of the swing device based on alternately blocking and unblocking the first and second optical beams (46a, 47b); a plurality of optically transparent slots (36); a plurality of photointerrupters (37) respectively disposed between adjacent ones of the plurality of optically transparent slots (36); Equipped with a slotted strip (35); A swing device (10) comprising:

7. 7. The swing apparatus of claim 6, wherein the slotted strip is a curved slotted strip containing the plurality of optically transparent slots and the plurality of photointerrupters.

8. 8. The swing apparatus of claim 7, wherein the first light beam and the second light beam are centered about a pivot axis about which the arm assembly rotates.

9. 7. The swing apparatus of claim 6, wherein the slotted strip includes between 6 and 20 slots.

10. an arm assembly including a seat, the slotted strip being mechanically coupled to the arm assembly; a frame assembly coupled to the arm assembly and defining a pivot axis about which the arm assembly rotates during movement of the swing device, the plurality of optical sensors being mechanically coupled to the frame assembly; The swing device of claim 6 further comprising:

11. 8. The swing apparatus of claim 7, wherein the slotted strip is a curved slotted strip having a curvature about the pivot axis.

12. 7. The swing device of claim 6, wherein at least one slot of the plurality of slots is disposed completely between the first optical path and the second optical path during the movement of at least the portion of the swing device.

13. 7. The swing device of claim 6, wherein at least one photointerrupter of the plurality of photointerrupters is disposed completely between the first optical path and the second optical path during the movement of at least the portion of the swing device.

14. 7. The swing apparatus of claim 6, wherein the angular separation between adjacent slots of the plurality of slots is from about 1 degree to about 3 degrees.

15. 7. The swing apparatus of claim 6, wherein the spacing between adjacent ones of the slots in the slotted strip is between 0.15 inches and 0.5 inches.

16. 7. The swing apparatus of claim 6, wherein the slots are separated from one another such that the angle of separation of the slots is between 1 and 3 degrees.

17. 9. The swing apparatus of claim 8, wherein the separation between the first light beam and the second light beam is between 0.25 inches and 0.4 inches.

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