Canopy for infant car seat

Abstract

A child seat system includes a child seat having a seat body, seat soft goods positionable to cover the seat body, and a canopy unit connectable to the seat body. The canopy unit includes a connector. The seat soft goods are connectable to the seat body via the connector.

Description

CANOPY FOR INFANT CAR SEATCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONSThis application claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 63 / 733,237, filed on December 12, 2024, and U.S. Application No. 63 / 919,189, filed on November 17, 2025, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD

[0001] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure relate to the art of child restraint systems for use in a vehicle, and more particularly to child car seat or infant car seat (“ICS”).BACKGROUND

[0002] Some child car seats currently available on the market are designed for infants, for example from approximately 0~24 months and / or weighing 0-40 pounds, or from approximately 0-6 years and / or weighing 5-65 pounds. For example, such an infant car seat (“ICS”) is used in a rear facing (RF), generally reclined configuration. A conventional ICS may be removable from a base that is fixedly mounted to the vehicle seat. As another example, a convertible car seat (“CCS”) is usable in either of a rear facing or a forward facing (FF) configuration.

[0003] It may be desirable for soft goods of a child car seat to be removable for washing and / or replacement.

[0004] A child car seat may include a canopy for the comfort of a child occupant, for example to provide shade and / or block ultraviolet sunlight.BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0005] According to an embodiment, a child seat system includes a child seat having a seat body, seat soft goods positionable to cover the seat body, and a canopy unit connectable to the seat body. The canopy unit includes a connector. The seat soft goods are connectable to the seat body via the connector.

[0006] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the canopy unit includes a canopy mount connectable to the seat body. The connector is formed at the canopy mount. The canopy mount is hidden by the seat soft goods when the seat soft goods are connected to the connector.

[0007] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat body includes a pocket and the canopy mount is positionable within the pocket.

[0008] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the canopy mount includes an attachment mechanism and a hole is formed in the seat body proximate the pocket. The attachment mechanism is receivable within the hole to couple the canopy mount to the seat body when the canopy mount is arranged within the pocket.

[0009] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a lower edge of the seat soft goods is positionable within a channel formed in the seat body.

[0010] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat body includes a seat shell and a pad mountable in overlapping arrangement with the seat shell. The channel is defined between the seat shell and the pad.

[0011] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat soft goods include a soft goods attachment mechanism and the connector includes a slot. The soft goods attachment mechanism is removably engageable with the slot.

[0012] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat soft goods include at least one additional soft goods attachment mechanism positionable proximate a seat back of the seat body.

[0013] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one additional soft goods attachment mechanism includes an engagement mechanism receivable within an opening formed in the seat body.

[0014] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the canopy unit includes a canopy cover positionable in overlapping arrangement with a portion of the seat soft goods.

[0015] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the canopy cover includes at least one canopy attachment mechanism connectable to the seat body via the at least one additional soft goods attachment mechanism.

[0016] According to an embodiment, a child seat system includes a child seat having a seat body defining a channel, seat soft goods positionable to cover the seat body and a canopy unit connectable to the seat body. An at least one of the seat soft goods and the canopy unit is receivable within the channel.

[0017] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments both the seat soft goods and the canopy unit are receivable within the channel.

[0018] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat soft goods include at least one soft goods attachment mechanism and the canopy unit includes at least one canopy attachment mechanism. The at least one canopy attachment mechanism is connectable to the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism.

[0019] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism includes an engagement post and the at least one canopy attachment mechanism includes an opening. The engagement post is insertable through the opening to connect the at least one canopy attachment mechanism to the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism.

[0020] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one canopy attachment mechanism is connected to the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism at an interior of the seat body.

[0021] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one canopy attachment mechanism is connected to the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism within the channel.

[0022] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat body includes a seat shell and a pad mountable in overlapping arrangement with the seat shell, the channel being defined between the seat shell and the pad.

[0023] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat shell is formed from a plastic material and the pad is formed from a rigid foam material.

[0024] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the canopy unit includes a canopy mount engageable with the seat body and the seat soft goods are connectable to the canopy mount.

[0025] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the channel extends between the canopy mount and the seat body, and the seat soft goods are receivable within the channel between the canopy mount and the seat body.

[0026] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat soft goods include at least one soft goods attachmentmechanism and the canopy mount includes a connector. The at least one soft goods attachment mechanism is slidably engageable with the connector.

[0027] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the connector is a slot and the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism includes an engagement post. The engagement post has a dovetail configuration.

[0028] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the canopy mount includes an attachment mechanism and the seat body includes a pocket for receiving the canopy mount and a hole formed proximate the pocket. The attachment mechanism is receivable within the hole to couple the canopy mount to the seat body when the canopy mount is arranged within the pocket.

[0029] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the canopy unit includes a canopy bow including at least one hub pivotable about an axis and a canopy cover removably connectable to a fastener located at the at least one hub.

[0030] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the canopy unit includes a canopy bow including at least one hub and the seat soft goods include an opening through which the at least one hub is extendable.

[0031] According to an embodiment, a child seat system includes a child seat and seat soft goods positionable in overlapping arrangement with the child seat. The seat soft goods include at least one soft goods attachment mechanism releasably connectable to the child seat. A canopy unit is connectable to the child seat and includes at least one canopy attachment mechanism. The at least one canopy attachment mechanism is co-located with the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism.

[0032] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the child seat includes a seat body and the at least one canopy attachment mechanism is hidden within the seat body when the seat soft goods and the canopy unit are installed about the child seat.

[0033] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism includes an engagement post and the at least one canopy attachment mechanism includes an opening. The engagement post is insertable into the opening to connect the at least one canopy attachment mechanism to the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism.

[0034] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the child seat includes a seat body having at least one through hole.The engagement post is receivable within the at least one through hole to couple the at least one canopy attachment mechanism to the seat body.

[0035] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the child seat includes a seat body and the at least one canopy attachment mechanism is connected to the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism at an interior of the seat body.

[0036] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the child seat includes a seat body and the at least one canopy attachment mechanism is positioned between the seat body and the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism.

[0037] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the child seat includes a seat body having a channel and the at least one canopy attachment mechanism co-located with the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism is arranged within the channel.

[0038] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat body includes a seat shell and a pad mountable in overlapping arrangement with the seat shell. The channel being defined between the seat shell and the pad.

[0039] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat shell is formed from a plastic material and the pad is formed from a rigid foam material.

[0040] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the child seat includes a seat body and the canopy unit includes at least one canopy mount engageable with the seat body and the seat soft goods are connectable directly to the canopy mount.

[0041] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one canopy mount includes a connector and the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism being slidably engageable with the connector.

[0042] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one canopy mount is covered by the seat soft goods.

[0043] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the canopy unit includes a canopy bow including at least one hub pivotable about an axis and a canopy cover removably connectable to a fastener located at the at least one hub.

[0044] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the canopy unit includes a canopy bow including at least one hub and the seat soft goods include an opening through which the at least one hub is extendable.

[0045] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the child seat is an infant car seat.

[0046] According to an embodiment, a child seat system includes an infant car seat and seat soft goods positionable to cover the infant car seat. The seat soft goods include at least one soft goods attachment mechanism releasable from the infant car seat. A canopy unit is pivotally connectable to the infant car seat via at least one canopy mount.

[0047] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat soft goods are connectable directly to the canopy mount.

[0048] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one canopy mount is covered by the seat soft goods.

[0049] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the canopy unit includes a canopy bow having at least one hub and the seat soft goods include an opening through which the at least one hub is extendable.

[0050] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one canopy mount includes a connector and the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism is slidably engageable with the connector.

[0051] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the canopy unit includes a canopy bow including at least one hub pivotable about an axis and a canopy cover being removably connectable to a fastener located at the at least one hub.

[0052] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments at least a portion of the canopy cover is connectable to the infant car seat via the seat soft goods.

[0053] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one hub is removably connectable to the canopy mount.

[0054] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the infant car seat includes a seat body defining a channel and the canopy cover being receivable within the channel.

[0055] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the canopy cover remains within the channel as the canopy unit pivots relative to infant car seat.

[0056] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the infant car seat includes a pocket and the canopy mount is positionable within the pocket.

[0057] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the canopy mount includes an attachment mechanism and a hole is formed in the seat body proximate the pocket, the attachment mechanism being receivable within the hole to couple the canopy mount to the seat body when the canopy mount is arranged within the pocket.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0058] The following descriptions should not be considered limiting in any way. With reference to the accompanying drawings, like elements are numbered alike:

[0059] FIG. 1 A is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment;

[0060] FIG. IB is a front view of the child seat of FIG. 1 A according to an embodiment;

[0061] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the child seat of FIGS. 1A and IB with the canopy and soft goods removed according to an embodiment;

[0062] FIG. 3 A is a perspective view of a first piece of seat soft goods according to an embodiment;

[0063] FIG. 3B is a detailed view of a soft goods attachment mechanism of the seat soft goods of FIG. 3 A according to an embodiment;

[0064] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a canopy unit according to an embodiment;

[0065] FIG. 4B is a detailed view of a canopy attachment mechanism of the canopy unit of FIG. 4 A according to an embodiment;

[0066] FIG. 5A is a detailed perspective view of the canopy attachment mechanism engaged with a soft goods attachment mechanism according to an embodiment;

[0067] FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the canopy attachment mechanism and soft goods attachment mechanism connected to the seat body of a child seat according to an embodiment;

[0068] FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a canopy unit and seat soft goods during installation about a child seat according to an embodiment;

[0069] FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the child seat of FIG. 6A with the canopy attachment mechanisms co-located with the soft goods attachment mechanisms according to an embodiment;

[0070] FIG. 6C is a perspective view of the child seat of FIG. 6A with the canopy attachment mechanisms and soft goods attachment mechanisms connected to the seat body of the child seat according to an embodiment;

[0071] FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a first soft goods attachment member according to another embodiment;

[0072] FIG. 7B is a perspective view of a second soft goods attachment member according to an embodiment;

[0073] FIG. 8 is a side view of a child seat including a canopy unit in a deployed configuration and connected to the seat body via a canopy mount according to an embodiment;

[0074] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of the canopy mount connected to the seat body of FIG. 8 according to an embodiment;

[0075] FIG. 9B is an end view of the child seat of FIG. 9A according to an embodiment;

[0076] FIG. 10 is a perspective of a child seat with the canopy mount visible through the seat body according to an embodiment;

[0077] FIG. 11 is a detailed perspective view of a canopy mount according to an embodiment;

[0078] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a seat shell of a seat body according to an embodiment;

[0079] FIG. 13 A is a plan view of a seat shell of a seat body according to an embodiment;

[0080] FIG. 13B is a detailed view of the portion identified in FIG. 13 A according to an embodiment;

[0081] FIG. 14A is a perspective view of a child seat including a respective canopy attachment mechanism and soft goods attachment mechanism receivable at a seat back of the child seat according to an embodiment;

[0082] FIG. 14B is a back view of the child seat of FIG. 14A with the canopy attachment mechanism and soft goods attachment mechanism installed according to an embodiment;

[0083] FIG. 14C is a side view of the child seat of FIG. 14A with the canopy attachment mechanism and soft goods attachment mechanism installed according to an embodiment;

[0084] FIG. 15A is a perspective view of a canopy unit according to an embodiment;

[0085] FIG. 15B is a perspective view of a canopy bow including a first and second canopy mount according to an embodiment;

[0086] FIG. 16A is a perspective view of a canopy unit and seat soft goods during installation about a child seat according to an embodiment;

[0087] FIG. 16B is a perspective view of the child seat of FIG. 16A with the canopy attachment mechanisms co-located with the soft goods attachment mechanisms according to an embodiment; and

[0088] FIG. 16C is a perspective view of the child seat of FIG. 16A with the canopy attachment mechanisms and soft goods attachment mechanisms connected to the seat body of the child seat according to an embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0089] A detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and method are presented herein by way of exemplification and not limitation with reference to the Figures.

[0090] With reference to FIG. 1, an example of a child seat 20, such as used in a child seat system for example, is illustrated. The child seat 20 can include a seat body 22 having seat portion 24 and a backrest or upright portion 26 arranged at an angle relative to the seat portion 24. The seat portion 24 and the upright portion 26 may be detachably coupled, or alternatively, may be permanently coupled. In the illustrated, nondimiting embodiment, at least part of the upright portion 26 and the seat portion 24 are integrally formed as a single unitary body.

[0091] As shown, the upright portion 26 of the seat body 22 includes an upright support surface 28 generally facing forward and that extends from a first end or top 30 to a second, opposite end or bottom 32) of the upright portion 26. A first upright side member 34 may be arranged at a first side 36 of the upright support surface 28 and a second upright side member 38 may be arranged at a second, opposite side 40 of the upright support surface 28. The first and second upright side members 34, 38 therefore form the left side and the right side of the upright portion 26, respectively. As shown, the first and second upright side members 34, 38 extend forward from the upright support surface 28. The first and second upright side members 34, 38 may extend generally orthogonally to the upright support surface 28, or alternatively, may extend therefrom at another angle, such as an angle greater than 90° for example. Accordingly, the upright support surface 28 and the first and second upright side members 34, 38 define a backrest region or upright support cavity within which an upper body of a child is received.

[0092] The upright portion 26 of the seat body 22 may include a headrest 42. In such embodiments, the headrest 42 may be attached to or may be integral with the upright portion26. The headrest 42 may be stationary or in some embodiments, may be configured to move relative to the upright support surface 28. For example, the headrest 42 may be configured to translate relative to the upright support surface 28 between a retracted position and an extended position, allowing for adjustment based on the size of the child positioned within the child seat 20. In other embodiments, the child seat 20 may not include a headrest 42.

[0093] The seat portion 24 includes a seat support surface 44 facing generally upwardly and that extends from a first end or front 46 to a second end or back (not shown) of the seat portion 24. A first seat side member 50 may be arranged at a first side 52 of the seat support surface 44 and a second seat side member 54 may be arranged at a second, opposite side 56 of the seat support surface 44. The first seat side member 50 and the second seat side member 54 may extend generally upwardly from the seat support surface 44 and form the left side and the right side of the seat portion 24. The seat support surface 44 and the first and second seat side member 50, 54 in combination define a region within which at least part of a lower body of a child may be received. Accordingly, the seat portion 24 and the upright portion 26 in combination define a child receiving cavity of the child seat 20.

[0094] As shown, the seat side members 50, 54 extend at an angle from the seat support surface 44. The angle of the first seat side member 50 relative to the seat support surface 44 may but need not be the same as the angle of the first upright side member 34 relative to the upright support surface 28. Similarly, the angle of the second seat side member 54 relative to the seat support surface 44 may but need not be the same as the angle of the second upright side member 38 relative to the upright support surface 28. In an embodiment, the first upright side member 34 and the first seat side member 50 are integrally formed and the second upright side member 38 and the second seat side member 54 are integrally formed.

[0095] As shown in FIG. 2, the seat body 22 may include a rigid or structural seat shell 57 that forms part of both the upright portion 26 and the seat portion 24. For example, the seat shell 57 may be a molded plastic material arranged at both the upright portion 26 and the seat portion 24 of the seat body 22. At least one pad 58 having a contour complementary to the seat shell 57, identified generally at 58, may be mounted to the seat shell 57. In an embodiment, the pad 58 is formed from rigid foam material, such as expanded polypropylene. However, embodiments where the pad 58 is formed from another suitable material are also contemplated herein. As shown in FIG. 2, the pad 58 may is positioned in overlapping arrangement with an interior of the seat shell 57 and forms at least part of the upright portion 26 that support a child positioned within the child seat 20. For example, in the non-limiting embodiment, the pad 58forms at least an inward facing surface of each upright side member 34, 38 and / or defines the upright support surface 28 of the upright portion 26 of the seat body 22.

[0096] One or more cushions or soft padding, referred to herein as seat soft goods 60, may be disposed in overlapping arrangement with one or more surfaces of the seat portion 24 and / or with one or more surfaces of the upright portion 26 to comfortably support a child that is positioned within the child seat 20. For example, in the non-limiting embodiment of FIGS. 1 A-1B, seat soft goods 60 are positioned in overlapping arrangement with one or more of the upright support surface 28, the top 30 of the upright portion 26, the seat support surface 44, the front 46 of the seat portion 24, one or more surfaces of each upright side member 34, 38 and / or one or more surfaces of each seat side member 50, 54. In the non-limiting embodiment of FIGS. 1 A and IB, the seat soft goods 60 may have a single unitary body positionable in overlapping arrangement with both the seat portion 24 and the upright portion 26 of the seat body 22. In other embodiments, as will be described in more detail below, the seat soft goods 60 may be formed by a plurality of separate pieces. For example, a first piece 60a of seat soft goods (FIG. 3 A) may be associated with the upright portion 26 of the seat body 22 and a separate, second piece of seat soft goods (not shown) may be associated with the seat portion 24 of the seat body 22. It should be appreciated that the child seat 20 as illustrated and described herein is intended as an example only and that a child seat 20 having any suitable configuration is within the scope of the disclosure.

[0097] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the child seat 20 is configured as an infant car seat. When configured as an infant car seat, the child seat 20 may include a carrying handle 62. As shown, the carrying handle 62 may have a generally arcuate shape and the two opposite ends 64, 66 thereof are respectively connected with a left and right side of the seat body 22. In some embodiments, the carrying handle 62 is movably connected with the seat body 22. Accordingly, the carrying handle 62 may be transformable, for example rotatable about a handle axis H, between a plurality of positions or angles relative to the seat body 22, such as to more easily access the child positioned within the child seat 20 or for storage purposes for example. Examples of the angular positions include when the carrying handle 62 extends within a vertically oriented plane (FIGS. 1 A-1B), also referred to herein as a ’’carrying position,” when the carrying handle 62 is reclined rearwardly, such as behind the upright portion 26 for example, and when the carrying handle 62 is rotated forward toward the front 46 of the seat portion 24, referred to herein as a “forward position.” It should be understood that the carrying handle 62 may also be arranged at other angular positions along the path of movement of the carrying handle 62.

[0098] In an embodiment, a canopy unit 70 is permanently or removably mounted to the seat body 22, such as to the seat shell 57 for example. The canopy unit 70 may be transformable between a deployed configuration (FIG. 1 A) and a retracted configuration (FIG. IB) to selectively cover or shield the top 30 of the upright portion 26, such as from the sun for example. The canopy unit 70 may include at least one canopy bow 72 pivotally mounted to the seat body 22 and a canopy cover or soft goods 74 coupled to and movable with the at least one canopy bow 72 to transform the canopy unit 70 between the deployed and retracted configurations.

[0099] The child seat 20 is suitable for use to transport a child within a vehicle. To install the child seat 20, the child seat 20 may be removably mounted to a seat base (not shown) arranged on an upper surface of the vehicle seat. However, in other embodiments, the child seat 20 may be positioned directly on the vehicle seat 10 without the use of a separate seat base. Accordingly, in such instances, at least a portion of a bottom surface 27 of the child seat 20 at the seat portion 24 may be arranged in direct contact with the vehicle seat 10.

[0100] With reference now to FIG. 3 A, an example of a portion of the seat soft goods 60 is shown in more detail. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a first piece 60a of seat soft goods, such as positionable in overlapping arrangement with the upright portion 26 of the seat body 22 for example, is illustrated. At least one soft goods attachment mechanism, and in some embodiments a plurality of soft goods attachment mechanisms 80a, 80b, 80c are arranged at the first piece 60a of seat soft goods and are connectable to the seat body 22. The plurality of soft goods attachment mechanisms 80a, 80b, 80c are operable to removably connect the first piece 60a of seat soft goods to the seat body 22, such as to the seat shell 57 for example. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 3 A, the first piece 60a of seat soft goods includes three soft goods attachment mechanisms 80a, 80b, 80c. However, it should be appreciated that embodiments including fewer than three soft goods attachment mechanisms, or alternatively, more than three soft goods attachment mechanisms are also contemplated herein.

[0101] The plurality of soft goods attachment mechanisms 80a, 80b, 80c may be spaced about a perimeter along a first edge 63 of the first piece 60a of seat soft goods. As shown, a first soft goods attachment mechanism 80a may be located at the portion of the first piece 60a of seat soft goods positionable proximate the first upright side member 34, and a second soft goods attachment mechanism 80b may be located at the portion of the first piece 60a of seat soft goods positionable proximate the second upright side member 38. A third soft goods attachment mechanism 80c may be located at a portion of the first piece 60a of seat soft goods positionable at a seat back 73 (see FIG. 6A) of the upright portion 26, such as behind theheadrest 42. In other embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. 6A-6C, the first piece 60a of seat soft goods may include multiple soft goods attachment mechanisms proximate the seat back 76 of the upright portion 26. For example, two soft goods attachment mechanisms 80c, 80d may be located at the portion of the first piece 60a of seat soft goods positionable at the seat back 73 more proximate the first upright side member 34 and the second upright side member 38, respectively.

[0102] The soft goods attachment mechanisms 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d are configured such that the first piece 60a of seat soft goods may be easily released from the seat body 22, such as for cleaning. An example of the first soft goods attachment mechanism 80a is illustrated in more detail in FIG. 3B. However, it should be appreciated that each of the plurality of soft goods attachment mechanisms 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d may have a substantially identical configuration. As shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B and 6A-6C, each soft goods attachment mechanism 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d may include a respective base 82a, 82b, 82c, 82d affixed to a surface of the first piece 60a of seat soft goods, such as an outward facing surface of first piece 60a of seat soft goods for example. As shown, the bases 82a, 82b, 82c, 82d may be arranged proximate an edge 63 of the first piece 60a of seat soft goods such that each base 82a, 82b, 82c, 82d extends beyond the edge of the first piece 60a of seat soft goods.

[0103] The bases 82a, 82b, 82c, 82d may be stitched, glued, or attached to the first piece 60a of seat soft goods in another suitable manner. A corresponding post or protrusion 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d extends at an angle from a surface 86a, 86b, 86c, 86d of each respective base 82a, 82b, 82c, 82d. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the posts 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d are generally circular in shape and each post 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d is oriented generally perpendicular to a respective base 82a, 82b, 82c, 82d; however, embodiments where the posts 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d have another shape and / or are arranged at another angle relative to the bases 82a, 82b, 82c, 82d are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0104] A plurality of openings or through holes 88a, 88c, 88d are formed about the seat shell 57. It should be appreciated that the plurality of through holes as described herein may further include a through hole 88b, not shown. Through hole 88b may have a configuration similar to the other through holes 88a, 88c, 88d. The through holes 88a, 88c, 88d may each have a size and shape complementary to the size and shape of the post 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d of a respective soft goods attachment mechanism 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d receivable therein. For example, the post 84a of the first soft goods attachment mechanism 80a is receivable within the first through hole 88a, the post 84b of the second soft goods attachment mechanism 80b is receivable within a second through hole (88b not shown), the post 84c of the third soft goodsattachment mechanism 80c is receivable within the third through hole 88c, and in embodiments including the fourth soft goods attachment mechanism 80d as shown in FIGS. 6A-6C, the post 84d of the fourth soft goods attachment mechanism 80d is receivable within a fourth through hole 88d. The axial length of the posts 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d of the soft goods attachment mechanisms 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d may be selected such that when the posts 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d are inserted into their respective through holes 88a, 88c, 88d formed in the seat shell 57, a distal end of each post 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d is substantially flush with the adjacent exterior surface of the seat shell 57.

[0105] In an embodiment, part of the first piece 60a of seat soft goods including the plurality of soft goods attachment mechanisms 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d is positionable within a clearance 89 (see FIGS. 6A and 6B) formed in the seat body 22, such as between an interior surface of the seat shell 57 and an exterior surface of the pad 58. For example, the portion of the first piece 60a of the seat soft goods including the first soft goods attachment mechanism 80a is positionable between the seat shell 57 and the pad 58 at the first upright side member 34 and the portion of the first piece 60a of seat soft goods including the second soft goods attachment mechanism 80b is positionable between the seat shell 57 and the pad 58 at the second upright side member 38. The portion of the first piece 60a of seat soft goods including the third soft goods attachment mechanism 80c, and in some embodiments, the fourth soft goods attachment mechanism 80d, may be insertable into the clearance 89 between an interior surface of the seat shell 57 and the exterior surface of the pad 58 at the seat back 73. In an embodiment, the clearance 89 has a channel-like configuration.

[0106] To install the first piece 60a of seat soft goods, the edge 63 including the soft goods attachment mechanisms 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d is generally installed within the clearance 89 between the seat shell 57 and the pad 58. Within the clearance 89, the posts 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d of the soft goods attachment mechanisms 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d are then positioned within the plurality of through holes 88a, 88c, 88d formed in the seat shell 57 to couple the first piece 60a of seat soft goods to the seat body 22. When installed, the ends of the posts 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d are exposed at the exterior of the seat shell 57. To remove the first piece 60a of seat soft goods, a user applies a force to the surface of each post 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d exposed at the exterior of the seat shell 57. The force may push each post 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d inwardly, out of engagement with the corresponding through hole 88a, 88c, 88d. With the posts 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d of the soft goods attachment mechanism 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d separated from the throughs hole 88a, 88c, 88d formed in the seat shell 57, the first piece 60a of the soft goods may be removed from the clearance 89 and separated from the child seat 20, such as for cleaning for example.

[0107] In embodiments where the child seat 20 includes a canopy unit 70, the canopy unit 70 may be removably connectable to the seat soft goods, such as to the first piece 60a of seat soft goods. With reference to FIGS. 4A-5B and continued reference to FIGS. 6A-6C, a lower part, such as a lower edge 75 of the canopy cover 74 for example, is positionable proximate the first upright side member 34, the second upright side member 38, and the seat back 73. The canopy cover 74 may include one or more canopy attachment mechanisms 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d operable to couple the canopy cover 74 to the child seat 20. In an embodiment, each canopy attachment mechanism 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d is associable with a corresponding soft goods attachment mechanism 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d of the first piece 60a of seat soft goods. In an embodiment, each canopy attachment mechanism 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d is positioned proximate a corresponding soft goods attachment mechanism 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d. Each canopy attachment mechanism 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d may be affixed to a surface of the canopy cover 74 via stitching, adhesive, or another suitable mechanism.

[0108] In an embodiment, each of the plurality of canopy attachment mechanisms 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d is substantially identical. An exemplary first canopy attachment mechanism 90a is illustrated in more detail in FIG. 4B. As shown in the FIGS., each canopy attachment mechanism 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d may be a ringdike connector having a body 92a, 92b, 92c, 92d. The bodies 92a, 92b, 92c, 92d of the canopy attachment mechanisms 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d may be affixed to the canopy cover 74. A corresponding hole 94a, 94b, 94c, 94d is formed in each body 92a, 92b, 92c, 92d. A size and / or shape of each hole 94a, 94b, 94c, 94d may be complementary to or equal to the size and / or shape of the post 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d of an adjacent soft goods attachment mechanism 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d. The posts 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d of the soft goods attachment mechanisms 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d are therefore receivable within the holes 94a, 94b, 94c, 94d of the canopy attachment mechanisms 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d to couple the canopy unit 70 to the first piece 60a of seat soft goods. When coupled, the canopy attachment mechanism 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d may be considered co-located with the soft goods attachment mechanisms 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d. In an embodiment, the axial length of each post 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d is greater than the thickness of a respective canopy attachment mechanism 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d positionable about the post 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d. For example, the axial length of each post 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d may be substantially equal to the thickness of a respective canopy attachment mechanism 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d mountable thereto and the thickness of the seat shell 57 at a respective through hole 88a, 88c, 88d.

[0109] The canopy attachment mechanisms 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d may be connected to the posts 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d of the soft goods attachment mechanisms 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d at aninterior of the seat shell 57. In an embodiment, each canopy attachment mechanism 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d is coupled to a respective soft goods attachment mechanism 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d before the posts 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d of the soft goods attachment mechanisms 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d are positioned within the through holes 88a, 88c, 88d of the seat shell 57. Accordingly, the canopy attachment mechanisms 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d may be retained in position between the soft goods attachment mechanisms 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d and an interior surface of the seat shell 57. However, embodiments where a canopy attachment mechanism 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d is connectable to the post 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d of a respective soft goods attachment mechanism 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d at an exterior of the seat shell 57 are also within the scope of the disclosure. In such embodiments, the distal ends of the posts 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d of the soft goods attachment mechanisms 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d protrude beyond the exterior surface of the seat shell 57.

[0110] When each canopy attachment mechanism 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d is connected to a respective post 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d of a soft goods attachment mechanism 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, the lower part of the canopy cover 74 including the canopy attachment mechanisms 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d may be installed within the clearance 89 between the interior surface of the seat shell 57 and an adjacent exterior surface of the pad 58. To remove the canopy unit 70, a user similarly applies an inward force to each of the posts 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d. The force may move each post 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d out of engagement with a respective through hole 88a, 88c, 88d. With the posts 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d disengaged from the seat shell 57, the corresponding canopy attachment mechanisms 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d are also disengaged from the posts 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d, allowing separation of the canopy unit 70 from the first piece 60a of seat soft goods, such as for cleaning for example.

[0111] With reference now to FIGS. 7A-16C, another embodiment of a child seat 120 is illustrated according to an embodiment. The child seat 120 may have a seat body 122 including a seat portion 124 and an upright portion 126 similar to the seat body 22 of the child seat 20 described with respect to FIGS. 1-6C. As shown, the upright portion 126 of the seat body 122 may include an upright support surface 128 generally facing forward and that extends from a first end 130 to a second, opposite end 132 of the upright portion 126. A first upright side member 134 may be arranged at and extend at an angle from a first side 136 of the upright support surface 128 to form a left side of the upright portion 126 and a second upright side member 138 may be arranged at and extend at an angle from a second, opposite side 140 of the upright support surface 128 to form a right side of the upright portion 126. The upright portion 126 of the seat body 122 may but need not include a headrest (not shown).

[0112] The seat portion 124 similarly includes a seat support surface 144 facing generally upwardly and that extends between a first end 146 and a second end of the seat portion 124. A first seat side member 150 may be arranged and extend at an angle from a first side 152 of the seat support surface 144 and a second seat side member 154 may be arranged at and extend at an angle from a second, opposite side 156 of the seat support surface 144 to form the left and right sides of the seat portion 124, respectively. The seat portion 124 and the upright portion 126 in combination define a child receiving cavity of the child seat 120.

[0113] As previously described herein, the seat body 122 may include a rigid or structural seat shell 157 that forms part of both the upright portion 126 and the seat portion 124. In an embodiment, the seat shell 157 is a plastic molding that defines an exterior of both the upright portion 126 and the seat portion 124 of the seat body 122. The seat body 122 may further include one or more pads 158 having a contour complementary to the seat shell 157. The at least one pad 158 may be permanently or removably mounted to the seat shell 157 at a position in overlapping arrangement with an interior of the seat shell 157 at the upright portion 126.

[0114] Although generally not shown affixed to the seat body 122 in FIGS. 7A-16C, child seat 120 includes one or more cushions or soft padding, referred to herein as seat soft goods 160, and similar to the seat soft goods 60 of FIGS. 1A and IB, may be positionable in overlapping arrangement with one or more surfaces of the seat portion 124 and / or with one or more surfaces of the upright portion 126 to comfortably support a child positioned within the child seat 120. Further, in embodiments where the child seat 120 is an infant car seat, the child seat 120 may include a carrying handle 162 having a generally arcuate shape and pivotably coupled to the seat shell 157. For example, the two opposite ends 164, 166 of the carrying handle 162 may be respectively connected with a left and right side of the seat body 122. The carrying handle 162 may be transformable, for example rotatable about a handle axis H, between a plurality of positions or angles relative to the seat body 122, such as to more easily access the child positioned within the child seat 20 or for storage purposes for example.

[0115] With continued reference to FIGS. 7A-7B, the illustrated seat soft goods 160 may include one or more soft goods attachment mechanisms 180a, 180b operable to removably connect the seat soft goods 160 to the seat body 122. An example of a first soft goods attachment mechanism 180a and a second soft goods attachment mechanism 180b arranged at the seat soft goods 160 is illustrated in detail in FIGS. 7A and 7B. As shown, each soft goods attachment mechanism 180a, 180b may include a respective base 182a, 182b affixed to a surface 161 of the seat soft goods 160 positionable directly adjacent to and facing toward theseat body 122. The bases 182a, 182b may but need not be located proximate a lower part or edge 163 of the seat soft goods 160. The bases 182a, 182b may be stitched, glued, or affixed to the seat soft goods 160 in any suitable manner. A corresponding engagement post or protrusion 184a, 184b may extend at an angle from an exposed surface 186a, 186b of a respective base 182a, 182b, such as generally perpendicularly to the base 182a, 182b for example. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the engagement posts 184a, 184b are configured as elongated ribs; however, engagement posts 184a, 184b having another configuration are also contemplated herein. A thickness of each engagement post 184a, 184b may be uniform over its axial length or may vary. In an embodiment, the thickness varies such that the engagement posts 184a, 184b have a dovetail configuration or an outwardly extending flange arranged at the end thereof.

[0116] In the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7B, the soft first and second goods attachment mechanisms 180a, 180b are directly engageable with the seat shell 157 of the seat body 122 to mount the seat soft goods 160 to the seat body 122. As shown, the seat shell 157 may have a first slot 188a and a second slot 188b formed therein. The first slot 188a may be located at a first side of the seat shell 157, such as near an interface between the first upright side member 134 and the first seat side member 150 and the second slot 188b may be located at a second side of the seat sell 157, such as near an interface between the second upright side member 138 and the second seat side member 154. Each slot 188a, 188b may have a size and shape complementary to, and in some embodiments substantially identical to a portion of a respective engagement post 184a, 184b engageable therewith.

[0117] The engagement posts 184a, 184b of the soft goods attachment mechanisms 180a, 180b may be slidably receivable with the slots 188a, 188b. In embodiments where the engagement posts 184a, 184b have a dovetail configuration, the variation in the thickness prevents the engagement posts 184a, 184b from being pulled laterally through the slots 188a, 188b. In embodiments where each engagement post 184a, 184b includes a flange, the flanges are disposed at an opposite side of the seat shell 157 as the bases 182a, 182b and prevents lateral movement of the engagement posts 184a, 184b relative to the slot 188a, 188b. Although only two soft goods attachment mechanisms 180a, 180b are illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B, it should be appreciated that a plurality of similar or substantially identical soft goods attachment mechanisms like attachment mechanisms 180a, 180b may be positioned at a plurality of locations spaced about a periphery of the lower part 163 of the seat soft goods 160. In embodiments including a plurality of soft goods attachment mechanisms like soft goods attachment mechanisms 180a, 180b, a plurality of slots like slots 188a and 188b may be formedin the seat shell 157, and each soft goods attachment mechanism may be slidably connectable directly to the seat shell 157 via a respective slot.

[0118] In other embodiments, the one or more soft goods attachment mechanism 180a, 180b may be indirectly connectable to the seat shell 157. For example, as shown in FIGS. 8- 16C, the soft goods attachment mechanism 180a, 180b may be connectable to the seat shell 157 via a canopy unit 170. As in the embodiment illustrated and described with reference to FIGS. 1-6C, the canopy unit 170 may include one or more canopy bows 172 and a canopy cover or soft goods 174 affixable to and movable with the canopy bow 172. The canopy bow 172 may be pivotally mounted to the seat shell 157 and rotation of the canopy bow 172 about its axis is operable to transform the canopy unit 170 between a deployed configuration (FIGS. 10 and 14A) and a retracted configuration (FIG. 14C).

[0119] As shown in FIGS. 15A-15B, the canopy unit 170 may be connectable to the child seat 120 via at least one canopy mount, such as a first canopy mount 200a arranged proximate a first end 176 of the canopy bow 172 and a second canopy mount 200b located near a second, opposite end 178 of the canopy bow 172. The canopy bow 172 may be removably connectable to the first canopy mount 200a and the second canopy mount 200b, or in some embodiments may be permanently connected to thereto. The first canopy mount 200a is at least partially receivable within a first pocket 201a arranged at the seat shell 157. Similarly, the second canopy mount 200b may be at least partially receivable within a corresponding second pocket 201b arranged at the seat shell 157 (see pockets 201a and 201b in FIG. 13 A). As shown, each pocket 201a, 201b may be arranged at an interior surface of the seat shell 157, such as near an end 164, 166 of the carrying handle 162 and a respective upright side member 134, 138. However, embodiments where the canopy mounts 200a, 200b are configured to couple to the seat body 122 at another location are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0120] An example of the first canopy mount 200a according to an embodiment is illustrated in more detail in FIGS. 9A-11. It should be appreciated that the second canopy mount 200b, though not shown in detail, may have a configuration that is substantially the same or similar to the first canopy mount 200a described herein. Each canopy mount 200a, 200b includes a respective mount body 202a, 202b having a first end 204a, 204b and an opposite second end 206a, 206b. The mount bodies 202a, 202b may be generally rectangular in shape and in some embodiments, may have a generally wedge-shaped configuration. For example, a thickness of each mount body 202a, 202b may gradually increase from the first end 204a, 204b toward the second end 206a, 206b thereof. However, embodiments where each mount body 202a, 202b has a uniform thickness, or where the thickness of each mount body 202a, 202bdecreases from the first end 204a, 204b toward the second end 206a, 206b are also contemplated herein.

[0121] The canopy bow 172 includes at least one hub, such as a first hub 190 and a second hub 192, that define an axis of rotation of the canopy bow 172. As shown, the first hub 190 connected to or integrally formed with the first end 176 of the canopy bow 172 may be rotatably coupled to the mount body 202a of the first canopy mount 200a, such as proximate the upper, second end 206a for example. Similarly, the second hub 192 connected to or integrally formed with the second end 178 of the canopy bow 172 may be rotatably coupled to the mount body 202b of the second canopy mount 200b, such as proximate the upper, second end 206b thereof for example. Although the hubs 190, 192 are illustrated as being mounted to the outward facing surfaces of the mount bodies 202a, 202b, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the hubs 190, 192 may be mounted to the inward facing surfaces of the mount bodies 202a, 202b.

[0122] With reference to the first canopy mount 200a shown in FIG. 11, the first canopy mount 200a may include a mount attachment mechanism 210a, such as located near the first end 204a of the mount body 202a for example. In an embodiment, the mount attachment mechanism 210a is integrally formed with the mount body 202a. The mount attachment mechanism 210a may have a resilient configuration to allow for limited movement of the mount attachment mechanism 210a relative to the mount body 202a. As shown, the mount attachment mechanism 210a may include a post 212a engageable with a corresponding through hole 214a formed in the seat shell 157. Accordingly, the through hole 214a may have a size and / or shape similar or substantially identical in size and shape to the post 212a receivable therein. The axial length of the post 212a may be selected such that when the mount attachment mechanism 210a is engaged with the seat body 122 and the post 212a is inserted into the through hole 214a formed in the seat shell 157, a distal end 216a of the post 212a is proximate or substantially flush with the adjacent exterior surface of the seat shell 157. The mount body 202a may be releasable from the seat shell 157 via application of a force to the distal end 216a of the post 212a, such as toward an interior of the seat body 122. Although the attachment mechanism of the second canopy mount 200b is not illustrated in detail, it should be appreciated that the mount attachment mechanism may have a substantially identical configured to the mount attachment mechanism 210a of the first canopy mount 200a and is similarly engageable with an adjacent through hole 214b formed in the seat shell 157.

[0123] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the first mount body 202a includes a connector 220a engageable with the first soft goods attachment mechanism 180a. In theillustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the connector 220a is a slot formed in the mount body 202a and has a size and shape complementary to, and in some embodiments substantially identical to, the engagement post 184a, 184b of a corresponding soft goods attachment mechanism, such as the first soft goods attachment mechanism 180a. In an embodiment, the engagement post 184a of the first soft goods attachment mechanism 180a is slidably engageable with the connector 220a formed in the first mount body 202a. Although not shown, it should be understood that the second soft goods attachment mechanism 180b may be similarly engageable with a connector of the second mount body 202b.

[0124] To couple the soft goods attachment mechanism 180a to the first canopy mount 200a, the soft goods attachment mechanism 180a is moved upwardly such that the engagement post 184a translates into the connector 220a. In an embodiment, the connector 220a is configured to retain the engagement post 184a therein. With the first soft goods attachment mechanism 180a coupled to the first canopy mount 200a, the first canopy mount 200a may then be inserted into the corresponding first pocket 201a and coupled to the seat body 122, such as via the mount attachment mechanism 210a. Further, although not shown, the second mount body 202b may have a similar connector formed therein, and the engagement post 184b of the second soft goods attachment mechanism 180b, such as arranged at an opposite side of the seat soft goods 160 for example, is positionable within the slot of the second canopy mount 200b. Embodiments where the first and second soft goods attachment mechanisms 180a, 180b of the seat soft goods 160 are couplable to the first mount body 202a and the second mount body 202b in another suitable manner, such as via a press fit engagement for example, are also contemplated herein.

[0125] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment including a first canopy mount 200a and a second canopy mount 200b, the seat soft goods 160 includes a first soft goods attachment mechanism 180a arranged at a first portion of the seat soft goods 160 positionable proximate the first upright side member 134 and connectable to the first canopy mount 200a. The second, substantially identical soft goods attachment mechanism 180b may be arranged at a second portion of the seat soft goods 160 positionable proximate the second upright side member 138 and connectable to the second canopy mount 200b as described herein. When the seat soft goods 160 are coupled to the first canopy mount 200a and the second canopy mount 200b, the seat soft goods 160 may overlap and therefore cover a portion of the first canopy mount 200a and the second canopy mount 200b, such as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9B. However, in an embodiment, the seat soft goods 160 include openings through which the hubs 190, 192 of thecanopy bow 172 are extendable to minimize interference between the seat soft goods 160 and the canopy unit 170 as it transforms between the deployed and retracted configurations.

[0126] It should be understood that in addition to this first soft goods attachment mechanism 180a and second soft goods attachment mechanism 180b, the seat soft goods 160 may include at least one additional soft goods attachment mechanism 230a, 230, such as arranged at the lower part proximate the edge 163. With reference to FIGS. 16A-16C, in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the seat soft goods 160 include at least one additional soft goods attachment mechanisms. As shown, the seat soft goods 160 include two additional soft goods attachment mechanisms 230a, 230b, such as located proximate the seat back 173 of the upright portion 126. For example, a first additional soft goods attachment mechanism, identified at 230a, may be located at the seat back 173 near the first upright side member 134 and a second additional soft goods attachment mechanism, identified at 230b, may be located at the seat back 173 near the second upright side member 138, respectively. However, embodiments including a single additional soft goods attachment mechanism or more than two additional soft goods attachment mechanisms are also contemplated herein.

[0127] The additional soft good attachment mechanisms 230a, 230b that are located remotely from the canopy mounts 200a, 200b may have any suitable configuration. These additional soft good attachment mechanisms 230a, 230b may be connectable directly to the seat shell 157. In an embodiment, the additional soft good attachment mechanisms 230a, 230b have a substantially identical configuration to the soft goods attachment mechanisms 180a, 180b connectable to the canopy mounts 200a, 200b and may be slidably engageable with slots formed in the seat shell 157 as previously described with reference to FIG. 7.

[0128] In other embodiments, the soft goods attachment mechanisms 230a, 230b arranged at the seat soft goods 160 may have a configuration as described previously with reference to FIGS. 1-6C. With reference to FIGS. 14A-16C, in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, each soft goods attachment mechanism 230a, 230b has a respective base 232a, 232b affixed to a surface 161 of the seat soft goods 160. As shown, the bases 232a, 232b, may be arranged proximate the lower edge 163 of the seat soft goods 160, and in an embodiment, the bases 232a, 232b may extend beyond the edge 163 of the seat soft goods 160. As shown, a post or protrusion 234a, 234b extends at an angle from a surface 236a, 236b of each respective base 232a, 232b. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the posts 234a, 234b are generally circular in shape and extend perpendicularly from the bases 232a, 232b; however, embodiments where the posts 234a, 234b have another shape and / or are arranged at another angle relative to the bases 232a, 232b are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0129] Corresponding through holes 238a, 238b may be formed in the seat body 122 and associated with these additional soft goods attachment mechanisms 230a, 230b. Each through hole 238a, 238b may be formed in the seat shell 157 and have a size and / or shape complementary to the post 234a, 234b of a respective additional soft goods attachment mechanism 230a, 230b receivable therein. For example, the post 234a of the first additional soft goods attachment mechanism 230a is receivable within the first through hole 238a and the post 234b of the second additional soft goods attachment mechanism 230b is receivable within a second through hole 238b. The axial lengths of the posts 234a, 234b of the additional soft goods attachment mechanisms 230a, 230b may be selected such that when the posts 234a, 234b are inserted into their respective through holes 238a, 238b formed in the seat shell 157, a distal end of each post 234a, 234b is substantially flush with the adjacent exterior surface of the seat shell 157.

[0130] The lower part of the seat soft goods 160 including the edge 163 and the plurality of additional soft goods attachment mechanisms 230a, 230b may be positionable within a clearance 189 (see FIGS. 10, 16A and 16B) formed between an interior surface of the seat shell 157 and an exterior surface of the pad 158. In the non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 10, the clearance 189 is a channel extending about a periphery of the inner surface of the seat shell 157 at the upright portion 126. In some embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. 14A-14C, a groove or recess 250a, 250b associated with a respective soft goods attachment mechanism 230a, 230b may be formed in the pad 158 to facilitate installation of the seat soft goods, including the soft goods attachment mechanisms 230a, 230b between the pad 158 and the seat shell 157. Further, the clearance 189 may extend from between the seat shell 157 and the pad 158 through each canopy mount 200a, 200b, such as between the seat shell 157 and a surface of the canopy mounts 200a, 200b facing the seat shell 157. Accordingly, the seat soft goods 160 proximate the canopy mounts 200a, 200b is also receivable within the clearance 189.

[0131] To install the seat soft goods 160 about the seat body 122, the first soft goods attachment mechanism 180a is connected to the first canopy mount 200a, and another soft goods attachment mechanism (not shown) is connected to the second canopy mount 200a, as previously described. When installed the edge 163 of the seat soft goods 160 is positioned within a clearance 189. Further, the edge 163 of the seat soft goods 160 proximate the additional soft goods attachment mechanisms 230a, 230b is generally installed within the clearance 189 between the seat shell 157 and the pad 158. The post 234a of the first soft goods attachment mechanism 230a is positioned within a first through hole 238a formed in the seat shell 157 andthe post 234b of the second soft goods attachment mechanism 230b is positioned within a second through hole 238b formed in the seat shell 157.

[0132] To remove the seat soft goods 160, a user applies a force to a portion of the posts 234a, 234b of the additional soft goods attachment mechanisms 230a, 230b exposed at an exterior of the seat shell 157. The force causes each resilient post 234a, 234b to move inwardly, out of engagement with the corresponding through hole 238a, 238b. Similarly, a user may slidably disengage a respective engagement post 184a, 184b of a soft goods attachment mechanism 180a, 180b from the corresponding connector 220a of each canopy mount 200a, 200b. With the post 234a, 234b of each soft goods attachment mechanism 230a, 230b separated from a respective through hole 238a, 238b and the engagement posts 184a, 184b of the soft goods attachment mechanisms 180a, 180b disengaged from the connectors 220a of the canopy mounts 200a, 200b, the seat soft goods 160 can be fully separated from the child seat 120, such as for cleaning for example.

[0133] In an embodiment, the canopy cover 174 is also removably connectable to the canopy unit 170 and the seat body 122. The canopy cover 174 includes an upper, first end 241 (see FIG. 15 A) connectable to the canopy bow 172. In an embodiment, the first end 241 of the canopy cover 174 includes a pocket (not shown) within which the canopy bow 172 is receivable. The pocket may be permanently formed in the canopy cover 174, such as via stitching for example; however, in other embodiments the pocket may be selectively formable, such as by wrapping the first end 241 of the canopy cover 174 around the canopy bow 172 and removably coupling the first end 241 to another portion of the canopy cover 174. The first end 241 may be connectable to the canopy cover 174 to form the pocket via snaps, a zipper, hooks and loop fasteners, or any other suitable connection mechanism.

[0134] The canopy cover 174 may be further connectable to the hubs 190, 192 of the canopy bow 172. In an embodiment, the canopy cover 174 includes a first portion 191 of an attachment mechanism (FIGS. 8, 9A, and 10-11) and a second portion 193 of the attachment mechanism, removably engageable with the first portion 191 of the attachment mechanism, is arranged at a surface of the hub 190, 192. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the hub 176 protruding from an opening formed in the soft goods 160 may include a female portion 191 of a snap fastener. A corresponding male portion 193 (see FIG. 4 A) of the snap fastener may be located at a portion of the canopy cover 174 for engagement with the female portion 191. It should be understood that the snap fastener illustrated and described herein is intended as an example only and that any suitable attachment mechanism is contemplated herein. Further, although this connection between the canopy cover 174 and the hubs 190, 192 of the canopybow 172 is illustrated and described with reference to FIG7. 8- 16 A, it should be appreciated that the canopy cover 74 of FIGS. 1-6C may have similar fasteners for attaching the canopy cover 74 to the hubs of the canopy bow 72.

[0135] The lower, second end 243 of the canopy cover 174 is removably connectable to the seat body 122 and in some embodiments, to the seat soft goods 160. With continued reference to FIGS. 15A-16C, the canopy cover 174 may include at least one canopy attachment mechanism 240a, 240b. In an embodiment, the canopy cover 74 includes a plurality of canopy attachment mechanisms 240a, 240b and each canopy attachment mechanism 240a, 240b is positionable adjacent to a corresponding soft goods attachment mechanism 230a, 230b, such as at the back side 173 of the upright portion 126 for example. Each canopy attachment mechanism 240a, 240b may be affixed to a surface of the canopy soft goods 174 via stitching, adhesive, or another suitable mechanism.

[0136] In an embodiment, each of the plurality of canopy attachment mechanisms 240a, 240b are substantially identical. As shown, each canopy attachment mechanism 240a, 240b may be a connector having a body 242a, 242b and a corresponding hole 244a, 244b formed in the body 242a, 242b. A size and / or shape of each hole 244a, 244b may be complementary to or equal to the size and / or shape of the post 234a, 234b of an adjacent soft goods attachment mechanism 230a, 230b. The posts 234a, 234b of the soft goods attachment mechanisms 230a, 230b are therefore receivable within the holes 244a, 244b of the canopy attachment mechanisms 240a, 240b to couple the canopy unit 170 to the seat soft goods 160. Accordingly, when the canopy attachment mechanisms 240a, 240b are positioned over the posts 234a, 234b of the additional soft goods attachment mechanisms 230a, 230b, each canopy attachment mechanism 240a, 240b may be considered to be co-located with a corresponding additional soft goods attachment mechanisms 230a, 230b. In an embodiment, the axial length of each post 234a, 234b is substantially equal to a thickness of a respective canopy attachment mechanism 240a, 240b and the thickness of the seat shell 157 at a respective through hole 238a, 238b.

[0137] The canopy attachment mechanisms 240a, 240b may be connected to the posts 234a, 234b of the additional soft goods attachment mechanisms 230a, 230b at an interior of the seat body 122. In an embodiment, each canopy attachment mechanism 240a, 240b is coupled to a respective additional soft goods attachment mechanism 230a, 230b before the additional soft goods attachment mechanism 230a, 230b is inserted into the clearance 189 and connected to the seat shell 157. Accordingly, the canopy attachment mechanisms 240a, 240b are retained in position between the bases 232a, 232b of the additional soft goods attachment mechanisms 230a, 230b and an interior surface of the seat shell 157. However, embodiments where a canopyattachment mechanism 240a, 240b is connectable to the post 234a, 234b of a respective additional soft goods attachment mechanism 230a, 230b at an exterior of the seat shell 157 are also within the scope of the disclosure. In such embodiments, the distal ends of the posts 234a, 234b of the additional soft goods attachment mechanisms 230a, 230b protrude beyond the exterior surface of the seat shell 157.

[0138] When each canopy attachment mechanism 240a, 240b is connected to the post 234a, 234b of a soft goods attachment mechanism 230a, 230b at an interior of the seat shell 157, the portion of the canopy soft goods 174 including the canopy attachment mechanisms 240a, 240b may be installed within the clearance 189 formed between the interior surface of the seat shell 157 and an adjacent exterior surface of the pad 158. To remove the canopy unit 170, a user similarly applies a force to the exposed surface of the posts 234a, 234b at the through holes 238a, 238b. The force may push each post 234a, 234b inwardly, out of engagement with a respective through hole 238a, 238b. With the posts 234a, 234b disengaged from the through holes 238a, 238b, the corresponding canopy attachment mechanisms 240a, 240b can be disconnected from the posts 234a, 234b, allowing the canopy unit 170 to separate from seat soft goods. The canopy cover 174 may be further decoupled from the canopy unit 170, such as by disconnecting the canopy cover 174 from the hubs 190, 192 of the canopy bow 172 and the first end of the canopy cover 174 from the canopy bow 172.

[0139] While embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated on an ICS, it will be appreciated that other types of child car seats are applicable, such as a CCS or booster seat. Moreover, embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented in other child furniture and seats that have soft goods and / or a canopy, for example: strollers, play yards, bassinets, chairs, and the like.

[0140] The term “about” is intended to include the degree of error associated with measurement of the particular quantity based upon the equipment available at the time of filing the application.

[0141] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, element components, and / or groups thereof.

[0142] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment or embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this present disclosure, but that the present disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A child seat system comprising: a child seat including a seat body; seat soft goods positionable to cover the seat body; a canopy unit connectable to the seat body, the canopy unit including a connector; and wherein the seat soft goods are connectable to the seat body via the connector.

2. The child seat system of claim 1, wherein the canopy unit includes a canopy mount connectable to the seat body, the connector being formed at the canopy mount, wherein the canopy mount is hidden by the seat soft goods when the seat soft goods are connected to the connector.

3. The child seat system of claim 2, wherein the seat body includes a pocket and the canopy mount is positionable within the pocket.

4. The child seat system of claim 3, wherein the canopy mount includes an attachment mechanism and a hole is formed in the seat body proximate the pocket, the attachment mechanism being receivable within the hole to couple the canopy mount to the seat body when the canopy mount is arranged within the pocket.

5. The child seat system of claim 1, wherein a lower edge of the seat soft goods is positionable within a channel formed in the seat body.

6. The child seat system of claim 5, wherein the seat body includes a seat shell and a pad mountable in overlapping arrangement with the seat shell, the channel being defined between the seat shell and the pad.

7. The child seat system of claim 1, wherein the seat soft goods include a soft goods attachment mechanism and the connector includes a slot, the soft goods attachment mechanism being removably engageable with the slot.

8. The child seat system of claim 7, wherein the seat soft goods include at least one additional soft goods attachment mechanism positionable proximate a seat back of the seat body.

9. The child seat system of claim 8, wherein the at least one additional soft goods attachment mechanism includes an engagement mechanism receivable within an opening formed in the seat body.

10. The child seat system of claim 8, wherein the canopy unit includes a canopy cover, the canopy cover being positionable in overlapping arrangement with a portion of the seat soft goods.

11. The child seat system of claim 10, wherein the canopy cover includes at least one canopy attachment mechanism, the at least one canopy attachment mechanism being connectable to the seat body via the at least one additional soft goods attachment mechanism.

12. A child seat system comprising: a child seat including a seat body defining a channel; seat soft goods positionable to cover the seat body; a canopy unit connectable to the seat body; and wherein at least one of the seat soft goods and the canopy unit is receivable within the channel.

13. The child seat system of claim 12, wherein both the seat soft goods and the canopy unit are receivable within the channel.

14. The child seat system of claim 12, wherein the seat soft goods include at least one soft goods attachment mechanism and the canopy unit includes at least one canopy attachment mechanism, the at least one canopy attachment mechanism being connectable to the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism.

15. The child seat system of claim 14, wherein the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism includes an engagement post and the at least one canopy attachment mechanism includes an opening, the engagement post being insertable through the opening to connect the at least one canopy attachment mechanism to the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism.

16. The child seat system of claim 15, wherein the at least one canopy attachment mechanism is connected to the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism at an interior of the seat body.

17. The child seat system of claim 16, wherein the at least one canopy attachment mechanism is connected to the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism within the channel.

18. The child seat system of claim 12, wherein the seat body includes a seat shell and a pad mountable in overlapping arrangement with the seat shell, the channel being defined between the seat shell and the pad.

19. The child seat system of claim 18, wherein the seat shell is formed from a plastic material and the pad is formed from a rigid foam material.

20. The child seat system of claim 12, wherein the canopy unit includes a canopy mount engageable with the seat body, the seat soft goods are connectable to the canopy mount.

21. The child seat system of claim 20, wherein the channel extends between the canopy mount and the seat body, and the seat soft goods are receivable within the channel between the canopy mount and the seat body.

22. The child seat system of claim 20, wherein the seat soft goods include at least one soft goods attachment mechanism and the canopy mount includes a connector, the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism being slidably engageable with the connector.

23. The child seat system of claim 22, wherein the connector is a slot and the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism includes an engagement post, the engagement post having a dovetail configuration.

24. The child seat system of claim 20, wherein the canopy mount includes an attachment mechanism and the seat body includes a pocket for receiving the canopy mount and a hole formed proximate the pocket, the attachment mechanism being receivable within the hole to couple the canopy mount to the seat body when the canopy mount is arranged within the pocket.

25. The child seat system of claim 12, wherein the canopy unit includes: a canopy bow including at least one hub, the at least one hub being pivotable about an axis; and a canopy cover, the canopy cover being removably connectable to a fastener located at the at least one hub.

26. The child seat system of claim 12, wherein the canopy unit includes a canopy bow including at least one hub and the seat soft goods include an opening through which the at least one hub is extendable.

27. A child seat system comprising: a child seat; seat soft goods positionable in overlapping arrangement with the child seat, the seat soft goods including at least one soft goods attachment mechanism releasably connectable to the child seat; a canopy unit connectable to the child seat, the canopy unit including at least one canopy attachment mechanism; and wherein the at least one canopy attachment mechanism is co-located with the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism.

28. The child seat of claim 27, wherein the child seat includes a seat body and the at least one canopy attachment mechanism is hidden within the seat body when the seat soft goods and the canopy unit are installed about the child seat.

29. The child seat of claim 27, wherein the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism includes an engagement post and the at least one canopy attachment mechanism includes an opening, the engagement post being insertable into the opening to connect the at least one canopy attachment mechanism to the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism.

30. The child seat system of claim 29, wherein the child seat includes a seat body having at least one through hole, the engagement post being receivable within the at least one through hole to couple the at least one canopy attachment mechanism to the seat body.

31. The child seat system of claim 27, wherein the child seat includes a seat body and the at least one canopy attachment mechanism is connected to the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism at an interior of the seat body.

32. The child seat system of claim 27, wherein the child seat includes a seat body and the at least one canopy attachment mechanism is positioned between the seat body and the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism.

33. The child seat system of claim 27, wherein the child seat includes a seat body having a channel and the at least one canopy attachment mechanism co-located with the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism is arranged within the channel.

34. The child seat system of claim 33, wherein the seat body includes a seat shell and a pad mountable in overlapping arrangement with the seat shell, the channel being defined between the seat shell and the pad.

35. The child seat system of claim 34, wherein the seat shell is formed from a plastic material and the pad is formed from a rigid foam material.

36. The child seat system of claim 27, wherein the child seat includes a seat body and the canopy unit includes at least one canopy mount engageable with the seat body and the seat soft goods are connectable directly to the canopy mount.

37. The child seat system of claim 36, wherein the at least one canopy mount includes a connector, the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism being slidably engageable with the connector.

38. The child seat system of claim 36, wherein the at least one canopy mount is covered by the seat soft goods.

39. The child seat system of claim 27, wherein the canopy unit includes:a canopy bow including at least one hub, the at least one hub being pivotable about an axis; and a canopy cover, the canopy cover being removably connectable to a fastener located at the at least one hub.

40. The child seat system of claim 27, wherein the canopy unit includes a canopy bow including at least one hub and the seat soft goods include an opening through which the at least one hub is extendable.

41. The child seat system of claim 27, wherein the child seat is an infant car seat.

42. A child seat system comprising: an infant car seat; seat soft goods positionable to cover the infant car seat, the seat soft goods including at least one soft goods attachment mechanism releasable from the infant car seat; and a canopy unit connectable to the infant car seat via at least one canopy mount, the canopy unit being pivotally connected to the infant car seat via the at least one canopy mount.

43. The child seat system of claim 42, wherein the seat soft goods are connectable directly to the canopy mount.

44. The child seat system of claim 42, wherein the at least one canopy mount is covered by the seat soft goods.

45. The child seat system of claim 44, wherein the canopy unit includes a canopy bow including at least one hub and the seat soft goods include an opening through which the at least one hub is extendable.

46. The child seat system of claim 42, wherein the at least one canopy mount includes a connector, the at least one soft goods attachment mechanism being slidably engageable with the connector.

47. The child seat system of claim 42, wherein the canopy unit includes: a canopy bow including at least one hub, the at least one hub being pivotable about an axis; and a canopy cover, the canopy cover being removably connectable to a fastener located at the at least one hub.

48. The child seat system of claim 47, wherein at least a portion of the canopy cover is connectable to the infant car seat via the seat soft goods.

49. The child seat system of claim 47, wherein the at least one hub is removably connectable to the canopy mount.

50. The child seat system of claim 47, wherein the infant car seat includes a seat body defining a channel, the canopy cover being receivable within the channel.

51. The child seat system of claim 50, wherein the canopy cover remains within the channel as the canopy unit pivots relative to infant car seat.

52. The child seat system of claim 42, wherein the infant car seat includes a pocket and the canopy mount is positionable within the pocket.

53. The child seat system of claim 52, wherein the canopy mount includes an attachment mechanism and a hole is formed in the seat body proximate the pocket, the attachment mechanism being receivable within the hole to couple the canopy mount to the seat body when the canopy mount is arranged within the pocket.

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