Child carrier

Abstract

To provide a child carrier which can be flexibly used with convenience.SOLUTION: A child carrier comprises: a carry harness; a child support part connected to the carry harness and including a hip support part; and a hip support adjustment mechanism provided on the hip support part, and which can be operated to change a width of the hip support part. The child carrier further comprises an expandable part arranged on the hip support part and capable of being operated for adjusting a maximum bottom distance between a trunk support part and the carry harness.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application claims the priority of Chinese Patent Application No. 201810549110.1 filed on May 31, 2018 and Chinese Patent Application No. 201810355370.5 filed on April 19, 2018.

[0002] The present invention relates to child carriers.

Background Art

[0003] Child carrier products enable a caregiver to conveniently carry a small child without using hands while in close proximity to the caregiver. Various types of child carriers available in the market may differ in terms of how the child is carried, for example, carrying a small child in a lying position in front of the carrier, or carrying the child forward or backward in front of the carrier, or carrying the child behind the carrier. Child carriers may also differ in terms of function, such as being for one person, two people, etc.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In order to avoid stress concentration on the carrier and to provide a comfortable environment that can properly support a child's waist, torso, neck and head without undesirable bending or pressure being applied to the child, the design of the child carrier must be based on ergonomics. Unfortunately, child carriers available in the market may still not meet current needs. For example, most child carriers have a fixed configuration for the space capacity for the child to sit, and may not be suitable for the needs of children of various sizes to sit in different positions.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for an improved child carrier that is more flexible and convenient to use and can at least address the aforementioned problems.

[0006] This application describes a child carrier that is flexible and easy to use. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one embodiment, the child carrier includes a carry harness, a child support section connected to the carry harness and including a hip support section, and a hip support adjustment mechanism provided in the hip support section, the hip support adjustment mechanism being operable to change the width of the hip support section.

[0008] According to another embodiment, the child carrier includes a carry harness, a child support section connected to the carry harness and including a hip support section and a torso support section connected to each other, and an expandable section positioned above the hip support section, the expandable section being operable to adjust the maximum bottom distance between the torso support section and the carry harness. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic front view showing one embodiment of a child carrier. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic front view showing another configuration of the child carrier shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic front view of the child carrier shown in Figure 2, where the neck support of the child carrier is adjusted to a different vertical position than that shown in Figure 2. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic front view of the child carrier shown in Figure 3, where the hip support adjustment mechanism of the child carrier is fastened to reduce the width of the hip support section. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic front view of the child carrier of Figure 3 with the head cover extended outwards. [Figure 6]Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the child carrier from Figure 1 with the child support section pushed downwards. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic rear view of the child carrier shown in Figure 1. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing further details of the child carrier in Figure 1, including two shoulder straps connected to each other through two strap fastening assemblies. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing two strap fastening assemblies of a shoulder strap in an unfastened state. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing the modified configuration of the child carrier. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing a modified configuration of a child carrier that includes a pocket for concealing the hip support adjustment mechanism. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram showing a modified configuration of a child carrier that includes a pocket for concealing the hip support adjustment mechanism. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing another feature that may be provided in one embodiment of a child carrier. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram showing another feature that may be provided in one embodiment of a child carrier. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram showing another feature that may be provided in one embodiment of a child carrier. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram showing another variant configuration that may be applied to one embodiment of the child carrier. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram showing the child carrier from Figure 16 with the neck support removed from the torso support. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a schematic enlarged view showing further details of the neck support section of the child carrier shown in Figure 16. [Figure 19]FIG. 19 is a schematic enlarged view showing a head cover deployed outside the neck support portion shown in FIG. 18. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a schematic view showing one embodiment of a child carrier including a chest pad installed on the neck support portion. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a schematic view showing the chest pad alone. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a schematic view showing one embodiment of a child carrier including an expandable portion capable of adjusting the maximum bottom distance between the body support portion and the carry harness of the child carrier. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a side view showing the child carrier of FIG. 22. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a schematic view showing an exemplary adjustment of the expandable portion of the child carrier shown in FIG. 22. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a schematic enlarged view showing the adjusted expandable portion of the child carrier shown in FIG. 24. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a schematic side view showing the child carrier of FIG. 24 in the installed configuration.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0010] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 9, the child carrier 100 will be described. The child carrier 100 can include a carry harness 110 and a child support portion 120. The child carrier may be suitable for carrying and transporting a child near the caregiver's body.

[0011] Referring to Figures 1 to 9, when the child carrier 100 is installed and used to carry a child, the carry harness 110 can be wrapped around the caregiver's body. The carry harness 110 may include a waist strap 111 and two shoulder straps 112. Each of the two shoulder straps 112 may have a fixed end 112a (shown more clearly in Figures 6 and 7) that is fixedly connected to the waist strap 111, and a distal end 112b (shown more clearly in Figures 1 and 6) that can be detachably fastened to the waist strap 111 or the child support section 120 (described later).

[0012] The child support section 120 can be connected to the carry harness 110. More specifically, the child support section 120 can be connected to the shoulder strap 112 and the waist strap 111 at its two opposite ends, respectively. According to one embodiment, the child support section 120 may include a neck support section 121, a torso support section 122 including an inner surface 122a (shown more clearly in Figure 6) and an outer surface 122b (shown more clearly in Figures 1 to 3) that are opposite each other, a hip support section 123, and two thigh support sections 124. The child support section 120, composed of the neck support section 121, torso support section 122, hip support section 123, and thigh support sections 124, may include, but is not limited to, a flexible material including fabrics, textiles, etc. The hip support section 123 is positioned between the waist strap 111 and the torso support section 122 and is connected to them, respectively. The two thigh support sections 124 are positioned laterally on opposite sides of the waist support section 123, on the left and right sides respectively, and are connected to the hip support section 123. In one configuration example, the two thigh support sections 124 are positioned at an angle to the hip support section 123 and can be folded toward the waist strap 111. Furthermore, each thigh support section 124 may have a curved shape including two tapered ends on both sides and a thicker, for example, crescent-shaped intermediate section. The intermediate section of the thigh support section 124 may contain, for example, a filler to increase its thickness. When in use, the hip support section 123 and the two thigh support sections 124 can be folded toward the waist strap 111, at least partially defining a receptive space for seating a child. The thicker middle sections of each thigh support section 124 provide suitable support to the thighs so that the child can sit in a position with the knees at the hip joint, and can provide a healthier sitting posture that promotes natural hip development. The torso support section 122 can be folded relative to the lumbar support section 123 to provide support to the child's torso.The neck support section 121 is connected to the upper part of the torso support section 122 and can be folded upwards so that it can be positioned adjacent to the child's neck to help support the child's head.

[0013] Referring to Figures 1 to 5, the child carrier 100 may include a hip support adjustment mechanism 130 provided on the hip support section 123. The hip support adjustment mechanism 130 can change the width of the hip support section 123 according to the size of the child and / or the seating configuration. The width of the hip support section 123 may, for example, be defined as the lateral distance between two thigh support sections 124. However, such width may be any distance between any two points on the hip support section 123 along the lateral direction. According to one configuration example, the hip support adjustment mechanism 130 may include an adjustment section 131 connected to the hip support section 123. The adjustment section 131 may include a string, strap, band, panel, etc. Examples of suitable materials for the adjustment section 131 include fabric, elastic band, etc. The adjustment section 131 may extend laterally along the width direction of the hip support section 123, causing the hip support section 123 to shrink laterally in order to reduce its width. For example, the adjustment section 131 may have at least one distal end that is removably fastened to one or more predetermined connection positions on the hip support section 123 in order to adjust the width of the hip support section 123.

[0014] Referring to Figures 1 to 5, the adjustment part 131 has, for example, a fixed end 131a that is fixed to the hip support part 123 and a distal end 131b that can be detachably fastened to the hip support part 123 at a location away from the fixed end 131a. The fixed end 131a of the adjustment part 131 can be fixed to the hip support part 123 at a location adjacent to one of the two thigh support parts 124. The distal end 131b of the adjustment part 131 may be detachably fastened to the hip support part 123 using any suitable fastening structure. For example, the adjustment part 131 may have an opening 132 located away from the fixed end 131a of the adjustment part 131, and the hip support part 123 may have a button 133 that can engage with and disengage from the opening 132 of the adjustment part 131. According to one configuration example, the adjustment part 131 is provided with only one opening 132. However, the adjustment part 131 may have multiple openings 132. Furthermore, the distance between the fixed end 131a of the adjustment section 131 and the opening 132 may be smaller than the width of the hip support section 123. The button 133 is fixedly attached to the hip support section 123 at a location along the width direction of the hip support section 123, away from the fixed end 131a of the adjustment section 131.

[0015] The hip support adjustment mechanism 130 is fastened when the distal end 131b of the adjustment part 131 is attached to the hip support part 123 by engaging the button 131 with the opening 132, and is disengaged when the distal end 131b of the adjustment part 131 is detached from the hip support part 123 by disengaging the button 133 from the opening 132. When the hip support adjustment mechanism 130 is fastened, the hip support part 123 can be folded at least partially and reduced laterally, thereby reducing the width of the hip support part 123. When the hip support adjustment mechanism 130 is disengaged, the hip support part 123 can be expanded laterally, thereby increasing the width of the hip support part 123. Therefore, the width of the hip support part 123 can be reduced when the hip support adjustment mechanism 130 is fastened than when it is disengaged. This allows the hip support part 123 to be adjusted to accommodate children of different sizes and / or for different seating configurations.

[0016] It can be seen that multiple variations of the hip support adjustment mechanism 130 are possible. For example, the arrangement of the opening 132 and the button 133 may be swapped, or the opening 132 may be provided on the hip support portion 123 and the button 133 on the adjustment portion 131. According to the variations, the adjustment portion 131 may be completely detachable from the hip support portion 123, rather than being fixedly connected to the hip support portion 123 at a fixed end. That is, the adjustment portion 131 may have two ends that are detachably connected to the hip support portion 123. According to another variation, the adjustment portion 131 may be fastened to the hip support portion 123 using a back fastener, snap fastener, hook-loop fastener, zip fastener, restraint belt, etc.

[0017] Referring to Figures 3 to 5, the torso support portion 122 may include a storage pocket 1221 adapted to receive a head cover 1222. The storage pocket 1221 is located below the neck support portion 121 and may have an opening on the outer surface 122b of the torso support portion 122 that can be opened and closed as desired. Suitable fasteners that can be used to open and close the storage pocket 1221 include, but are not limited to, zip fasteners, button fasteners, snap fasteners, hook-loop fasteners, etc. The head cover 1222 may have a shape and dimensions that can at least partially cover the child's head. Examples of suitable materials for the head cover 1222 include flexible materials such as fabrics and textiles. The head cover 1222 can be folded and stored inside the storage pocket 1221 and unfolded outside when in use. According to one configuration example, the head cover 1222 may have an end that can be fixedly connected inside the storage pocket 1221 (e.g., by sewing). Thus, the head cover 1222 can be connected to the torso support portion 122. This prevents the head cover 1222 from being accidentally lost and eliminates the need for additional fasteners to connect the head cover 122 to the fuselage support section 122. In another configuration example, the head cover 1222 can be separated from the fuselage support section 122 as needed.

[0018] Referring to Figures 3 to 5, when the head cover 1222 is deployed for use, it extends from the storage pocket 1221 to the neck support portion 121 and is detachably fastened to the two shoulder straps 112 of the child carrier 100 to help cover and support the child's head at least partially. For example, the head cover 1222 may have a number of fasteners 1222a (shown more clearly in Figure 5) that can each engage with corresponding fasteners 1122 (shown more clearly in Figure 8) provided on the shoulder straps 112. The fasteners 1222a and 1122 may include, but are not limited to, snap fasteners, button fasteners, etc. According to one configuration example, the head cover 1222 is connected to two belt portions 1222b that can protrude from the distal end 1222c of the head cover 1222, and the fasteners 1222a may be provided on the belt portions 1222b. During use, the head cover 1222 can be unfolded to cover the child's head, and the belt portion 1222b can be extended toward the shoulder strap 112 so that the fasteners 1222a on the belt portion 1222b engage with the fasteners 1122 on the shoulder strap 112, respectively. When the head cover 1222 is not in use, the fasteners 1222a and 1122 can be detached from each other, and the head cover 1222 can be folded and stored in the storage pocket 1221. The belt portion 1222b and fasteners 1222a are stored together with the head cover 1222 in the storage pocket 1221.

[0019] It can be seen that the storage pocket 1221 may be provided in another suitable location on the child support section 120. For example, the storage pocket 1221 may be provided on the neck support section 121 so that the head cover 1222 can be housed inside the neck support section 121. In this case, the head cover 1222 may be connected to the neck support section 121, for example, inside the storage pocket 1221 provided on the neck support section 121.

[0020] Referring to Figures 1 to 4 and Figure 6, the neck support portion 121 is connected to the upper part of the torso support portion 122 and can be folded onto the upper part. In one configuration example, the neck support portion 121 can be fixedly connected to the upper part of the torso support portion 122 along a connection area 121a (shown more clearly in Figure 6) that extends laterally from the left to the right side of the torso support portion 122. Furthermore, the neck support portion 121 may have two ends located on opposite sides of each other in the direction of the connection area 121a. Two fastening portions 1211 are provided at each of these ends (shown more clearly in Figure 6). The left and right sides of the torso support portion 122 may each have a plurality of fastening portions 1223 that can engage with and disengage from the fastening portions 1211 of the neck support portion 121. The fastening portions 1223 may be distributed on the left and right sides of the storage pocket 1221. In one configuration example, the fastening portion 1211 provided on the neck support portion 121 is an opening, and the fastening portion 1223 provided on the torso support portion 122 may be a button that can engage with and disengage from the fastening portion 1211. The fastening portions 1223 on the left and right sides are, for example, provided on the outer surface 122b of the torso support portion 122 and arranged in a row that is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the child support portion 120. In one configuration example, the torso support portion 122 includes four fastening portions 1223, with pairs of two fastening portions 1223 provided on the left and right sides of the torso support portion 122.

[0021] By folding the neck support portion 121 onto the torso support portion 122, the neck support portion 121 can be configured to be at different heights or vertical positions relative to the torso support portion 122 according to the child's size. For example, by performing a first fold of the neck support portion 121 relative to the torso support portion 122 (as shown in Figures 3 and 4), it can have a first height or vertical position, and by performing a second fold that is larger than the first fold relative to the torso support portion 122 (as shown in Figures 1 and 2), it can have a second height or vertical position that is lower than the first height or vertical position. When the neck support portion 121 is in the first vertical position, the fastening portions 1211 at both ends of the neck support portion 121 engage with the two upper fastening portions 1223 on the left and right sides of the torso support portion 122, respectively, to hold the neck support portion 121 in the first vertical position. When the neck support portion 121 is in the second vertical position, the fastening portions 1211 at both ends of the neck support portion 121 engage with the two lower fastening portions 1223 on the left and right sides of the torso support portion 122, respectively, to hold the neck support portion 121 in the second vertical position.

[0022] It can be seen that multiple variations of the fastening portions 1211 and 1223 are possible. For example, the fastening portion 1211 provided on the neck support portion 1211 may be a button, and the fastening portion 1223 provided on the torso support portion 122 may be an opening. According to one variation, the fasteners 1211 and 1223 may include magnetic fasteners, snap fasteners, hook-loop fasteners, zipper fasteners, restraint belts, etc. Furthermore, vertical adjustment of the neck support portion 121 relative to the torso support portion 122 may be applicable to various embodiments of the child carrier 100, including embodiments having a storage pocket 1221 for a head cover 1222 provided on the torso support portion 122 or the neck support portion 121. In an embodiment in which a storage pocket 1221 for a head cover 1222 is provided in the neck support portion 121, fastening portions 1211 are located on the left and right sides of the storage pocket 1221 of the neck support portion 121, and the neck support portion 121 can be folded over the body support portion 122 so that the head cover 1222 is either stored inside the neck support portion 121 or unfolded outside and in a desired vertical position.

[0023] The neck support portion 121 described herein can be conveniently adjusted to provide suitable support for a child's head according to the child's size. Therefore, the neck support portion 121 can contribute to providing comfortable and safe support for children.

[0024] Referring to Figures 1 to 7, the child support section 120 and the shoulder straps 112 can be removably fastened to each other through connecting assemblies 140 and 150. Connecting assembly 140 may include two sets of connectors 141 and 142 that can engage and detach from each other. For example, two connectors 141 can be connected to two shoulder straps 112, respectively, and two connectors 142 can be attached to the left and right sides of the torso support section 122, respectively, through two belt sections 1224. More specifically, each connector 141 may be attached to the corresponding shoulder strap 112 at an intermediate position between the fixed end 112a and the distal end 112b of the shoulder strap 122. Two belt sections 1224 are attached to the torso support section 122 adjacent to the top of the torso support section 122 and away from the hip support section 123, and each connector 142 may be connected to the corresponding belt section 1224. In one configuration example, the two belt sections 1224 can each be attached to the inner surface 122a of the torso support section 122 near the top of the torso support section 122. The length of each belt section 1224 between the connector 142 and the torso support section 122 can be adjusted according to the size of the child to be accommodated in the child carrier 100.

[0025] Referring to Figures 1 to 4, the connecting assembly 150 may include two sets of connectors 151 and 152 that can engage and disengage from each other. For example, two connectors 151 can be connected to two shoulder straps 112, respectively, and two connectors 152 can be connected to the torso support section 122 on the hip support section 123 and the adjustment section 131, respectively. More specifically, each connector 151 can be attached to the corresponding distal end 112b of the shoulder strap 112 opposite the fixed end 112a of the shoulder strap 112, respectively. According to one configuration, each connector 151 may be adjustablely connected to the shoulder strap 112 to allow adjustment of the length of the shoulder strap 112 between the connector 151 and the fixed end 112a of the shoulder strap 112. A connector 152 may be positioned adjacent to the hip support section 123. According to one configuration, each connector 152 may be attached to a tab 1226 that can be attached to the outer surface 122b of the torso support section 122.

[0026] Referring to Figures 1 to 4, the outer surface 122b of the torso support portion 122 may further include two guide loops 1225. Two connectors 151 of the shoulder strap 112 can pass through the guide loops 1225 to engage with two connectors 152. For example, the two guide loops 1225 may each be located near the two connectors 152 on two thigh support portions 124.

[0027] According to the illustrated embodiment, connectors 141 and 142 and connectors 151 and 152 may include male and female connectors that can engage with each other. According to some modified configurations, connectors 141 and 142 and connectors 151 and 152 may include snap fasteners, button fasteners, zipper fasteners, hook-loop fasteners, etc.

[0028] To connect the torso support section 122 to the shoulder strap 112, the distal end 112b of the shoulder strap 112 can be connected to the torso support section 122 by engaging the connector 151 on the distal end 112b with the connector 152 of the torso support section 122. Furthermore, the connector 142 of the torso support section 122 can be engaged with the connector 141 of the shoulder strap 112. If desired, the distance between the upper part of the torso support section 122 and the shoulder strap 112 can be adjusted by adjusting the length of the belt section 1224 between the connector 142 and the torso support section 122.

[0029] The above-described embodiment has a distal end 112b of the shoulder strap 112 connected to the torso support portion 122 in the configuration used. According to a modified embodiment, the distal end 112b of the shoulder strap 112 is connected to the waist strap 111 in the configuration used, for example, by providing the same connector 152 at a suitable position on the waist strap 111, thereby forming a closed loop for the caregiver's arm to pass through.

[0030] Referring to Figures 6 to 9, the child carrier 100 may further include a strap restraint assembly 160 connectable between two shoulder straps 112. The strap restraint assembly 160 can restrain the two shoulder straps 112 over the caregiver's shoulders and may include two strap fastening assemblies 161, 162 and a connector 163. Examples of suitable materials for the connector 163 include, but are not limited to, flexible materials such as fabrics or textiles. The connector 163 is positioned between the two shoulder straps 112, connects to the two shoulder straps 112, and may be located adjacent to the waist strap 111. The connector 163 can assist in restraining the shoulder straps 112. The two strap fastening assemblies 161 and 162 slide along the two shoulder straps 112 respectively for adjustment and can engage and disengage from each other to fasten or disengage the strap restraint assembly 160.

[0031] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, the strap fastening assembly 161 may include a sliding part 1611, a female fastener 1613, and a belt part 1612 connected to the sliding part 1611 and the female fastener 1613, respectively. The sliding part 1611 may be slidably connected to one of two shoulder straps 112. For example, a guide strip 1121 extending longitudinally along the shoulder strap 112 may have two ends attached to the shoulder strap 112, and the sliding part 1611 may be slidably attached to the guide strip 1121. The belt part 1612 can be wrapped through and connected with the sliding part 1611 so that the belt part 1612 and the sliding part 1611 can slide together along the shoulder strap 112. The female fastener 1613 can be added to the shoulder strap 112 through the belt part 1612.

[0032] The strap fastening assembly 162 may include a sliding portion 1621, a male fastener 1623, and belt portions 1622 connected to the sliding portion 1621 and the male fastener 1623, respectively. The sliding portion 1621 can be slidably connected to the other of the two shoulder straps 112, for example, by using the guide strip 1121 described above. The belt portion 1622 can be wrapped around the sliding portion 1621 and connected to the sliding portion 1621. Thus, the belt portion 1622 and the sliding portion 1621 can slide together along the other shoulder strap 112. The male fastener 1623 can be adjustablely attached to the other shoulder strap 112 through the belt portion 1622. The female fastener 1613 and the male fastener 1623 can engage with and disengage from each other.

[0033] When the child carrier 100 is attached to the caregiver's body, the connecting section 163 is located in front of the caregiver's torso, and the female zipper 1613 and male zipper 1623 engage with each other on the caregiver's back, restricting the position of the two shoulder straps 112 on the caregiver's torso.

[0034] Referring to Figures 1 to 7, the waist strap 111 may include an attachment system 170 for fastening or unfastening the waist strap 111 around the caregiver's waist. The attachment system 170 may include two detachably engaging fasteners 171, 172 provided at each end of the waist strap 111. In one configuration, the fasteners 171, 172 may include hook-loop fasteners. In another configuration, the fasteners 171, 172 may include mutually engaging male and female fasteners, snap fasteners, button fasteners, zip fasteners, etc.

[0035] Referring to Figure 7, the waist strap 111 may further include a securing harness 180 that can tightly fasten the waist strap 111 around the caregiver's waist. The securing harness 180 may include a tightening belt 181 and two fasteners 182, 183. The tightening belt 181 may have one end that is fixedly connected to the waist strap 111, the fastener 182 may be adjustablely connected to the tightening belt 181, and the fastener 183 may be fixedly connected to the waist strap 111. According to one configuration example, the fasteners 182, 183 may include a male buckle portion and a female buckle portion that can engage with each other. When in use, after the waist strap 111 is secured around the caregiver's waist by the attachment system 170, the tightening belt 181 can be spread and extended across the two ends of the waist strap 111 so that the fastener 182 of the tightening belt 181 can engage with the fastener 183 of the waist strap 111. This allows the waist strap 111 to be tightly secured around the caregiver's waist. According to one configuration example, the waist strap 111 may further include a guide loop 111 positioned between the fastening portion 183 and one end of the waist strap 111. The guide loop 111 facilitates the positioning of the tightening belt 181, which can pass through the guide loop 111 to engage the fastening portion 182 with the fastening portion 183.

[0036] The following describes an example of using the child carrier 100 with reference to Figures 1 to 9. When using the child carrier 100, the connector 151 at the distal end 112b of the shoulder strap 112 can be fastened to the connector 152 of the torso support section 122, and the connector 142 of the torso support section 122 can be engaged with the connector 141 of the shoulder strap 112. This allows the torso support section 122 to be connected to the shoulder strap 112, and the shoulder strap 112 can each define two closed loops for the caregiver's arms to pass through. Furthermore, the width of the hip support section 123 can be adjusted by the adjustment section 131 according to the child's size or the child's seating configuration. For example, when the child is sitting facing forward and not towards the caregiver, the hip support section 123 can support the child more tightly by reducing the width of the hip support section 123 by engaging the button 133 of the hip support section 123 with the opening 132 of the adjustment section 131 (as shown in Figure 4). When a child sits facing a caregiver, the hip support section 123 wraps around a larger area of ​​the child's waist, so the width of the hip support section 123 can be increased for a more comfortable seating environment by unfastening the button 133 of the hip support section 123 from the opening 132 of the adjustment section 131 (as shown in Figure 3).

[0037] Once the child carrier 100 is set up, the waist strap 111 can be secured around the caregiver's waist by engaging the two fastening parts 171 and 172 of the mounting system 170. The waist strap 111 is then tightened around the caregiver's waist by the tightening harness 180. The child is then held in front of the caregiver's torso, and the child support part 120 wraps around the child, with the shoulder straps 112 and child support part 120 both pulled upward so that the shoulder straps 112 extend along the front of the caregiver's torso and wrap around the caregiver's shoulders. This allows the inner surface 122a of the torso support part 122 to face the internal volume of the child carrier 100 in which the child is received, and the outer surface 122b to face outwards. The two strap fastening assemblies 161 and 162 can be adjusted along the two shoulder straps 112 according to the caregiver's size and can engage with each other to fasten the strap regulating assembly 160. The distance between the upper part of the torso support section 122 and the caregiver's body can be adjusted as desired by adjusting the length of the belt section 1224.

[0038] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing a modified configuration of the child carrier 100 in which the hip support adjustment mechanism 130 can include a zipper fastener 134 that can perform the role of the adjustment part 131 described above. The zipper fastener 134 can be connected to the hip support part 123 and can extend approximately parallel to the length axis of the child support part 120. In one configuration example, the zipper fastener 134 can be positioned adjacent to the middle of the hip support part 123. The zipper fastener 134 can be closed to reduce the width of the hip support part 123 and opened to increase the width of the hip support part 123.

[0039] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing a modified configuration of the child carrier 100 that may include a pocket 125. The pocket 125 can be provided in the hip support section 123 and can be configured to conceal the hip support adjustment section 130. More specifically, the hip support adjustment section 130 is located inside the pocket 125, and the pocket 125 may have an opening 1251 on its top or side. The hip support adjustment section 130 can be accessed for operation through the opening 1251. Concealing the hip support adjustment section 130 inside the pocket 125 may contribute to improving the overall appearance of the child support section 120.

[0040] In Figure 11, the hip support adjustment part 130 hidden within the pocket 125 may, for example, include the adjustment part 131 and button 133 described earlier in relation to Figures 1 to 4. In Figure 12, the hip support adjustment mechanism 130 hidden within the pocket 125 may, for example, include the zipper fastener 134 described earlier in relation to Figure 10.

[0041] Figures 13 to 15 are schematic diagrams showing other features that may be provided in one embodiment of the child carrier 100. The child carrier 100 shown in Figures 13 to 15 may have any of the structures described above. Referring to Figures 13 to 15, the child carrier 100 may further include two thigh restraints 190 that extend between the carry harness 110 and the child support section 120 and are provided near two thigh support sections 124 on the right and left sides. According to one configuration example, the thigh restraints 190 and thigh support sections 124 on the right and left sides, respectively, may at least partially demarcate an adjustable restraint opening. The child's thighs are located through the restraint opening, and the thigh restraints 190 extend over the thigh support sections 124. When a child is placed in the child carrier 100 with their thighs passing through the restricting opening, the thigh restricting portion 190 can restrict the upward displacement of the thighs, thereby assisting in the proper positioning of the child and preventing the child from falling sideways from the child carrier 100.

[0042] Referring to Figures 13 to 15, according to one configuration example, the thigh restraint 190 includes a restraint 191 that extends between the carry harness 110 and the child support section 120. The restraint 191 has an elongated shape and may be made of a flexible material. For example, the restraint 191 may be a flexible strip or band. Examples of preferred materials for the restraint 191 include, but are not limited to, fabrics, textiles, etc. According to one embodiment, the restraint 191 may be connected to the carry harness 110 and the child support section 120, respectively, at a location between the thigh support section 124 and the neck support section 121. For example, the restraint 191 may have a fixed end 191a attached to the carry harness 110 and may be detachably connected to the torso support section 122 at a location adjacent to the hip support section 123 and above the thigh support section 124. In one configuration example, the fixed end 191a of the limiting portion 191 can be attached to the shoulder strap 112 adjacent to and above the waist strap 111. In another configuration example, the fixed end 191a of the limiting portion 191 can be attached to the waist strap 111.

[0043] Instead of connecting the restriction section 191 to the carry harness 110 and the child support section 120 respectively, the restriction section 191 may be connected to two spaced-apart positions on the child support section 120. For example, the restriction section 191 may have a fixed end 191a that connects to the hip support section 123 or the thigh support section 124, and may be detachably connected to the torso support section 122 in a location adjacent to the hip support section 123 and above the thigh support section 124.

[0044] When the restricting portion 191 is connected to the torso support portion 122, the restricting portion 191 and the thigh support portion 124 can at least partially demarcate a restricting opening for positioning the child's thighs. In addition, the restricting portion 191 can change the size of the restricting opening. For example, the size of the restricting opening may be changed by adjusting the length of the restricting portion 191 between the fixed end 191a and the point where the restricting portion 191 is connected to the torso support portion 122.

[0045] According to one configuration example, the limiting portion 191 may have a first fastening portion 192 positioned adjacent to the distal end 191b of the limiting portion 191 opposite to the fixed end 191a, and one or more second fastening portions 193 positioned adjacent to the fixed end 191a and capable of engaging with and disengaging from the first fastening portion 192. The first fastening portion 192 and the second fastening portions 193 are not limited to but may include button fasteners, snap fasteners, hook-loop fasteners, buckle fasteners, etc. To form a limiting opening, the limiting portion 191 passes through a guide loop (e.g., guide loop 1225) provided on the outer surface 122b of the torso support portion 122 on the thigh support portion 124, and returns so that the first fastening portion 192 engages with one of the second fastening portions 193 (as shown in Figure 15). In the configuration used, the installed restriction section 191 can extend over the thigh support section 124 and below the neck support section 121, thereby restricting the upward movement of the child's thigh located through the restriction opening. The length of the restriction section 191 between the fixed end 191a and the location where the restriction section 191 connects to the torso support section 122 that can partition the restriction opening upward (e.g., the guide loop 1225) can be adjusted by engaging the fastener 192 with the other of the second fastener 193.

[0046] It can be seen that the thigh restriction section 190 may have other configurations. For example, instead of using a lacing method, in a modified configuration, a second fastening section 193 is positioned on the torso support section 122, and a first fastening section 192 on the restriction section 191 can engage with any of the second fastening sections 193 on the torso support section 122 to form a restriction opening. According to another modified configuration shown in Figure 26, the restriction section 191 may include a plurality of first fastening sections 192, each formed as an opening, and the torso support section 122 may include a second fastening section 193 in the form of a button that selectively engages with any of the openings of the restriction section 191 to form a restriction opening. According to another configuration, the restriction section 191 may be detachably and / or adjustablely fastened to one or both of the carry harness 110 and the torso support section 122.

[0047] Figures 16-19 are schematic diagrams showing another variant configuration that may be applied to one embodiment of the child carrier 100. Referring to Figures 16-19, the neck support section 121 may be detachably connected to the upper part of the torso support section 122 via a fastener, which may be, for example, a zip fastener 126. The fastener can be engaged to connect the neck support section 121 to the torso support section 122 and disengaged to remove the neck support section 121 from the torso support section 122. Thus, the caregiver can remove and install the neck support section 121 as needed. For example, the neck support section 121 can be removed from the torso support section 122 to facilitate cleaning or repair. While a zip fastener is used in the example in Figures 16-19, it can be seen that other types of fasteners can be used to detachably connect the neck support section 121 to the torso support section 122. Examples of such fasteners include, but are not limited to, snap fasteners, button fasteners, hook-loop fasteners, etc. When the neck support portion 121 is connected to the torso support portion 122, the neck support portion 121 is folded over the torso support portion 122 (for example, along the zipper fastener 126) to adjust the vertical position of the neck support portion 121 relative to the torso support portion 122, as described above. The same fasteners 1211 and 1223 described above can be used to maintain the vertical position of the neck support portion 121.

[0048] Referring to Figures 16 to 19, the storage pocket 1221 used to store the head cover 1222 may be provided on the removable neck support portion 121 rather than the body support portion 122. For example, the storage pocket 1221 may be located in the central area of ​​the neck support portion 121, and the fastening portions 1211 of the neck support portion 121 may be located on the left and right sides of the storage pocket 1221. The opening of the storage pocket may be opened and closed by one or more snap fasteners 1221A as an example. Other suitable fasteners for opening and closing the storage pocket 1221 include, but are not limited to, zip fasteners, button fasteners, hook-loop fasteners, etc. According to one configuration example, the head cover 1222 may have an end that is fixedly connected inside the storage pocket 1221. Thus, the head cover 1222 is connected to the neck support portion 121. The head cover 1222 is folded and stored inside the storage pocket 1221 and unfolded outside when in use. When the head cover 1222 is deployed to cover the child's head, it is detachably fastened to the two shoulder straps 112 of the child carrier 100 to help support the child's head. For example, the head cover 1222 may have two belt sections 1222b (as clearly shown in Figure 16), each having a fastening section 1222a that can engage with a corresponding fastening section 1122 provided on the shoulder strap 112. When the head cover 1222 is not in use, the belt sections 1222b and fastening sections 1222a can be stored together with the head cover 1222 in the storage pocket 1221.

[0049] Figures 20 and 21 are schematic diagrams illustrating other features that may be provided in embodiments of the child carrier 100. Referring to Figures 20 and 21, the child carrier 100 may include a chest plate 127 that can be installed on the child support section 120 to at least partially cover and protect the neck support section 121. The neck support section 121 is permanently attached to or detachably connected to the torso support section 122 and is adjustable between several vertical positions relative to the torso support section 122 by folding the neck support section 121 over the torso support section 122 as described above. The chest plate 127 is positioned adjacent to the neck support section 121, while the neck support section 121 can be in any desired vertical position relative to the torso support section 122. For convenient and flexible use, the chest plate 127 may be detachably attached to and detached from the child support section 120 as needed. For example, the chest plate 127 may be detachably fastened to the neck support section 121 and / or torso support section 122 of the child support section 120.

[0050] In one configuration example, the bib 127 has a generally U-shape and includes a horizontal section 1271 and two side sections 1272 protruding from both sides of the horizontal section 1271. Examples of preferred materials for the bib 127 include, but are not limited to, fabrics and textiles. The bib 127 may include a plurality of openings 1273 for attaching the bib 127 to the child support section 120. For example, two openings 1273 are positioned in the apron 127 adjacent to two connection areas where the two side sections 1272 connect with the horizontal section 1271. When in use, the bib 127 is positioned to at least partially cover the neck support section 121, and fasteners provided on the torso support section 122 to hold the bib 127 in place can engage with the openings 1273, respectively. Examples of preferred fasteners provided on the torso support section 122 to engage with the openings 1273 of the bib 1273 include buttons. According to one embodiment, fastening portions 1223 provided on the torso support portion 122 to hold the neck support portion 121 in different vertical positions also engage with the opening 1273 to hold the chest plate 127 in place. For example, two of the fastening portions 1223 can engage with the neck support portion 121 and the chest plate 127, respectively, to hold the neck support portion 121 in a desired vertical position and to hold the chest plate 127 in a position adjacent to the neck support portion 121. When the chest plate 127 is positioned on the neck support portion 121, the two sides 1272 of the chest plate 127 can at least partially cover at least a portion of the fastening portions 1223 and the two belt portions 1224.

[0051] In addition to or instead of the aforementioned fastening portion provided on the torso support portion 122, the neck support portion 121 may also have a fastening portion that can engage with the chest plate 127 in order to hold the chest plate 127 in place.

[0052] Figures 22 to 26 are schematic diagrams showing other features that may be provided in one embodiment of the child carrier 100. Referring to Figures 22 to 26, the child carrier 100 may include an expandable portion 128 that can adjust the greatest bottom distance between the torso support portion 122 and the carry harness 110, in particular the greatest bottom distance between the torso support portion 122 at one end and the area adjacent to the waist strap 111, shoulder strap 112 and / or connecting portion 163 at the other end. The expandable portion 128 may be a panel, strip, band, etc. Examples of suitable materials for the expandable portion 128 include, but are not limited to, flexible materials such as fabrics and textiles. The expandable portion 128 may be positioned on top of the hip support portion 123. The end 128a of the expandable section 128 (shown more clearly in Figure 23) can be attached to the child support section 120 or the waist strap 111 in an area adjacent to the connection between the child support section 120 and the waist strap 111. The other end 128b of the expandable section 128 (shown more clearly in Figure 23), opposite to end 128a, can be attached to the torso support section 122 near the bottom of the torso support section 122, for example, near the connection between the torso support section 122 and the hip support section 123. The expandable section 128 may have an adjustable effective length connecting the torso support section 122 to the carry harness 110, and such adjustable effective length can define the maximum allowable bottom distance between the torso support section 122 and the carry harness 110. For example, the expandable section 128 can be connected to a fastening structure 1281 that changes and adjusts the effective length of the expandable section 128. This allows adjustment of the maximum bottom distance between the torso support section 122 and the carry harness 110. If the fastening structure 1281 is configured to reduce the maximum bottom distance between the torso support section 122 and the carry harness 110, it is expandable. The effective length of section 128 may be less than the total length between the two ends 128a and 128b of the expandable section 128.

[0053] According to one configuration example, the fastening structure 1281 may include a zip fastener with two rows of protruding teeth spaced apart from each other along the length of the expandable portion 128 and extending along the width of the child support portion 120. The two rows of protruding teeth can engage and disengage with each other. When the two rows of protruding teeth are engaged, the fastening structure 1281 is fastened, and the expandable portion 128 is folded to reduce its effective length, as shown in Figures 25 and 26, thereby reducing the maximum bottom distance between the torso support portion 122 and the carry harness 110. When the two rows of protruding teeth are disengaged, the fastening structure 1281 is disengaged, and the expandable portion 128 is expandable to increase its effective length, as shown in Figure 22, thereby increasing the maximum bottom distance between the torso support portion 122 and the carry harness. In other words, the maximum allowable bottom distance between the torso support section 122 and the carry harness 110 is smaller when the fastening structure 1281 is fastened than when it is not fastened. During use, the expandable section 128 can be adjusted according to the size of the child to set a suitable bottom distance between the torso support section 122 and the body of the caregiver carrying the child using the child carrier 100.

[0054] In the example described above, a zipper fastener is provided for the fastening structure 1281, but it can be seen that other configurations may also be suitable. For example, some variations of the fastening structure 1281 may include, but are not limited to, button fasteners, snap fasteners, buckle fasteners, hook-loop fasteners, etc. Furthermore, the fastening structure 1281 may include multiple fastening positions so that three or more maximum bottom distances can be set as desired between the torso support portion 122 and the carry harness 110.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the child carrier 100 described herein, which includes both an expandable section 128 and a hip support adjustment mechanism 130, can provide greater flexibility in adjusting the torso support section 122 and hip support section 123 of the child support section 120 according to the child's size and / or the child's seating configuration. Thus, the child carrier 100 can provide a more comfortable environment for the child.

[0056] Referring to Figures 16 and 17, a practical feature provided in an embodiment of the child carrier 100 may include a utility holder band 1112 attached to the waist strap 111. Suitable materials for the utility holder band 1112 include, but are not limited to, fabrics and textiles. The utility holder band 1112 may extend along the waist strap 111 and may have two ends 1112a and 1112b that are fixedly attached to the waist strap 111. An intermediate portion 1112c of the utility holder band 1112 between the two ends 1112a and 1112b can be moved away from the waist strap 111 to form a gap 1113 between the waist strap 111 and the intermediate portion 1112c. If more than one gap 1113 is formed, the utility holder band 1112 may be further fixedly attached to the waist strap 111 at another position 1112d between the two ends 1112a and 1112b. As a result, the waist strap 111 can accommodate one or more objects that can be hooked onto the utility holder band 1112. For example, an object with a fastener can be suspended from the utility holder band 1112, with the fastener being at least partially received through the gap 1113. For convenient use, the utility holder band 1112 is positioned on the waist strap 111 in a location easily accessible to a caregiver. For example, the utility holder band 1112 is positioned on the waist strap 111 adjacent to the hip support section 123. Thus, in this configuration of use, one or more objects can be suspended from the utility holder band 1112 under a child supported by the child support section 120.

[0057] Referring again to Figures 16 and 17, further practical features of the child carrier 100 may include a storage compartment 1115 provided on the waist strap 111. The storage compartment 1115 may be fixedly attached to the waist strap 111, separate from the utility holder band 1112. For example, the storage compartment 1115 may be sewn directly to the waist strap 111. The storage compartment 1115 may have an opening that can be opened and closed by a fastener 1116. According to one example, the fastener 1116 may be a zipper. However, it can be seen that the fastener 1116 may include other suitable configurations, but is not limited to, a button fastener, a snap fastener, a hook-loop fastener, etc. The caregiver can place relatively small objects or items such as keys and cards in the storage compartment 1115. According to one example, the storage compartment 1115 may be positioned on the right or left side of the caregiver's body when the waist strap 111 is attached around the caregiver's waist.

[0058] The embodiments and configurations described herein provide several features that can be advantageously applied to a child carrier. These features can be implemented individually or in any preferred combination as needed in various embodiments of the child carrier.

[0059] The realization of the child carrier has been described in the context of specific embodiments. These embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope. Many modifications, variations, additions, and improvements are possible. These modifications, variations, additions, and improvements may fall within the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0060] 100 Child Carriers 110 Carry Harness 120 Children's Support Department 121 Neck support section 122 Fuselage support section 123 Hip support section 124 Thigh support section 130 Hip support adjustment mechanism 140, 150 Linked Assembly 160 Strap Regulation Assembly 170 Installation System

Claims

1. Carry harness and A child support unit connected to the aforementioned carry harness, comprising a hip support unit, a torso support unit connected to the hip support unit, and two thigh support units, wherein each of the thigh support units is provided with a member for increasing its thickness. A hip support adjustment mechanism provided in the hip support portion, wherein the hip support adjustment mechanism is operable to change the width of the hip support portion in the lateral direction, which is from the left side to the right side. Includes, The hip support adjustment mechanism includes only one adjustment part connected to the hip support portion, and the adjustment part is operable to reduce the lateral width of the hip support portion by reducing its lateral size. The hip support adjustment mechanism has a fastened state and an unfastened state. The adjustment unit is configured to have multiple connection positions. The adjustment portion has a fixed end that is fixed to the hip support portion at a location adjacent to one of the two thigh support portions, It has a plurality of connection positions located away from the fixed end, To adjust the lateral width of the hip support portion, an engaging member is provided adjacent to the other of the two thigh support portions, fixed to the hip support portion, and fixedly attached to the hip support portion at a location away from the fixed end along the width direction of the hip support portion. This engaging member can be engaged with and disengaged from any of the multiple connection positions, and can be fastened when engaged. The hip support adjustment mechanism operates such that, when fastened, the lateral width of the hip support portion becomes smaller than when it is not fastened, without changing the seating height. Child carrier.

2. The child carrier according to claim 1, wherein the adjustment part includes a strip, strap, belt, or panel.

3. The child carrier according to claim 1, wherein the hip support adjustment mechanism is in the fastened state when the connection position of the adjustment part is engaged with the engaging member, and is in the disfastened state when the engaging member is disengaged from all connection positions of the adjustment part.

4. The child carrier according to claim 1, wherein when the hip support adjustment mechanism is in the fastened state, the hip support portion is at least partially folded and reduced in size laterally.

5. The child carrier according to claim 1, wherein the adjustment portion has a plurality of openings, the hip support portion has a button that can engage with and disengage from any of the plurality of openings, and the hip support adjustment mechanism is in the fastened state when the button is engaged with any of the plurality of openings, and is in the disfastened state when the button is disengaged from the plurality of openings.

6. The child carrier according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the hip support portion includes a pocket for concealing the hip support adjustment mechanism.

7. The child carrier according to claim 6, wherein the pocket has an opening at the top or side of the pocket, through which the hip support adjustment mechanism can be accessed for operation.

8. The child carrier according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the torso support portion is connected to an expandable portion that adjusts the maximum bottom distance between the torso support portion and the carry harness.

9. The child carrier according to claim 8, wherein the expandable portion is positioned above the hip support portion.

10. The child carrier according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the expandable portion has an adjustable effective length connecting the torso support portion to the carry harness, and the adjustable effective length defines the maximum bottom distance between the torso support portion and the carry harness.

11. The child carrier according to claim 10, wherein the expandable portion is connected to a fastening structure having a fastened state and an unfastened state, the expandable portion is folded to reduce the effective length of the expandable portion when the fastening structure is in a fastened state, and the expandable portion can be expanded to increase the effective length of the expandable portion when the fastening structure is in an unfastened state.

12. The child carrier according to claim 11, wherein the fastening structure includes a zip fastening system, a button fastener, a snap fastener, or a hook-loop fastener.

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