Harness for an infant support device

Abstract

Disclosed is a harness for an infant support. The harness comprises a first portion, a second portion and a third portion. Each of the second portion and the third portion are connected to the first portion at a first end of the first portion.

Description

[0001] HARNESS FORAN INFANT SUPPORT DEVICE

[0002] BACKGROUND

[0003] This application relates to harnesses for infant support devices and infant support devices themselves. Infant support devices may include seats, bassinets, cots, travel seats, high chairs, among others, but often include a harness to secure the infant in the device. Such harnesses may not always be required and in some instances, for example if the device is to be properly used as a sleep safe space, a harness cannot intrude into the infant support device at all. Known infant support devices either provide a permanent harness solution which intrudes into the device or do not include a harness at all. Where such infant support devices use a harness that is removable or retractable, retracting the harness may typically risk tangling up with the infant's body and limbs, and disturbing the infant who may have fallen asleep.

[0004] SUMMARY

[0005] Embodiments of the present disclosure include a harness for an infant support comprising a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion, wherein each of the second portion and the third portion are connected to the first portion at a first end of the first portion. Embodiments include an infant support or seat including a harness, and methods of manufacture and assembly of the same. Preferred embodiments are provided in the dependent claims.

[0006] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a harness as in claim 1.

[0007] Optional features are set out in the dependent claims.

[0008] The first portion may comprise a fold line.

[0009] The first portion may be configured to fold lengthwise along a or the fold line.

[0010] The fold line may be formed so as to promote folding along the fold line. According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided an infant support as in claim 8, 9, or 23.According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method as in claim 26.

[0011] DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0012] Embodiments of the present invention are described below, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows an infant receiving device according to the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 2 shows the infant receiving device from another perspective. Figure 3 shows the infant receiving device in a sleep configuration. Figure 4 shows the infant receiving device where the harness is folded. Figure 5a shows a retraction mechanism for an infant receiving device. Figure 5b shows another retraction mechanism for an infant receiving device.

[0014] Figure 6a shows a harness in a folded configuration.

[0015] Figure 6b shows the harness of Figure 6a in an unfolded configuration. Figure 7 shows a harness for a vertical aperture.

[0016] Figure 8 shows the harness of Figure 7 in a folded configuration.

[0017] Figure 9a shows a retraction mechanism in a non-retracted state.

[0018] Figure 9b shows the retraction mechanism of Figure 9a in a retracted state.

[0019] Figure 10a shows the retraction mechanism of Figure 9a from another perspective.

[0020] Figure 10b shows the retraction mechanism of Figure 9b from another perspective.

[0021] Figure 11a shows a retraction mechanism in a retracted state.

[0022] Figure lib shows the retraction mechanism of Figure 11a extending from a retracted state.Figure 11c shows the retraction mechanism of Figure 11a in a nonretracted state.

[0023] Figure 12a shows a buckle in an engaged position.

[0024] Figure 12b shows the buckle of Figure 12a in a disengaged position. Figure 12c shows the buckle of Figure 12a in a released position.

[0025] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Figure 1 shows an infant receiving device 100 which will provide a better understanding of the present disclosure. In particular, the infant receiving device 100 in Figure 1 is shown in a state in which the infant receiving device is a seat 102. The infant receiving device 100 shown in Figure 1 is in a seat configuration, and it may also be converted into forms which are not a seat configuration. For example, the same infant receiving device 100 shown in Figure 2 may be adjusted in the direction of arrow A into the sleeping or flat configuration of the infant receiving device 100 shown in Figure 3. The sleeping or flat configuration can provide a horizontal surface parallel to the ground for supporting an infant. The infant receiving device 100 may be manually manipulated to change between the configurations shown in Figures 2 and 3, or there may be automatic control of the configuration by means of electromechanical actuation. The infant receiving device 100 may be configurable into more than two different configurations. For example, the infant receiving device 100 may have more than one seated configuration. Multiple seated configurations may encompass various levels of seat inclination, or various levels of concavity of the surface supporting the infant. It will be appreciated that an infant receiving device 100 may achieve the effects of the present disclosure in changing configuration between any of the configurations.

[0027] Turning back to Figure 1, the infant receiving device 100 includes a seat 102 having a seat back 104. The seat 102 is arranged with a sidewall 106 within which an infant may be placed. In the seat configuration, there is a need or a desire to include a harness 110. The harness 110 extends outwardly from the seat back 104. In particular, the harness 110 extends from an aperture 112 in the seat back 104. The harness 110 includes a first harness portion 114 extending outwardly andupwardly from the aperture 112 or the seat back 104 in a first direction. The first direction may be along a longitudinal direction L of seat 102. That is, the first harness portion 114 passes through the aperture 112. The first harness portion 114 extends from a first end 116 to a second end 118. The first end 116 is shown at the aperture 112 of the seat 102, but may actually extend further behind the seat back 104 to be secured in place at a retraction mechanism. At the second end 118 of the first harness portion 114, a second harness portion 120 is secured. Whilst the second harness portion 120 is shown as being on one side of the seat 102, the second harness portion 120 may be considered to be on either side of the seat 102. The infant receiving device 100 shown in Figure 1 also includes a third harness portion 130. The third harness portion 130 in this case may be considered to be a mirror of the second harness portion 120. That is, the third harness portion 130 is secured to the first harness portion 114 at the second end 118.

[0028] The second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 when present are both configured so that they may be readily folded between two positions. In a first position shown in Figure 1, the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 extend in approximately the same direction as the first harness portion 114. In the first position, the second harness portion 120 and / or the third harness portion 130 are contiguous with the first harness portion 114, such that the first harness portion 114, the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 have a consistent cross section with respect to the aperture 112. In use, this may mean that retracting the harness 110 through the aperture 112 results in relatively little obstruction and disruption to the occupant. For example, the first harness portion 114 may readily pass through the aperture 112, and so may the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 together.

[0029] Turning to Figure 4, the harness 110 can be seen in a second configuration or position. The first harness portion 114 still extends from the seat back 104 or aperture 112. However, the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 have been folded into their respective second positions. In the second position, the second harness portion 120 no longer extends contiguously with the first harness portion 114, but the second harness portion 120 extends in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction in which the firstharness portion 114 extends. Folding of the second harness portion 120 may be achieved by manual manipulation of the second harness portion 120 across a joint portion 140. The joint portion 140 is a part of the harness 110 at which the second harness portion 120 joins with the first harness portion 114.

[0030] Similarly to the second harness portion 120, the third harness portion 130 is joined to the first harness portion 114 at the joint portion 140. Since the third harness portion 130 is joined at the joint portion 140, the third harness portion 130 may be manipulated between a first position in which the third harness portion 130 extends in the same first direction as the first harness portion 114 and a second direction which is perpendicular to the first direction. That is, the third harness portion 130 may be configured so that it extends contiguously in the same direction as the first harness portion 114, or it may be folded so that the third harness portion 130 extends perpendicularly to the direction of the first harness portion 114. In the second position, the third harness portion 130 may extend in the second direction perpendicular to the first direction of the first harness portion 114 but opposite to the second harness portion 120 along the second direction.

[0031] The second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 may both be manipulated together so that when the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 are each in the first position, they form a contiguous extension of the first harness portion 114. When the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 are manipulated into their respective second positions, the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 may extend from the second end of the first harness portion 114 outwardly in opposite directions to each other. In the second positions, the first harness portion 114 forms the central part of a T-shape, and the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 form the arms of the T-shape.

[0032] The first harness portion 114 is shown in the figures as a belt structure. That is, the first harness portion extends along a length, and has a width as well as a thickness. The belt is flattened in that the thickness of the first harness portion 114 is less than the width of the first harness portion. In the configuration shown in Figure 1, the width of thefirst harness portion 114 is directed across the seat 102 from one side to the other. In alternative arrangements, the width of the first harness portion 114 may be directed lengthwise along the seat 102. In either case, the aperture 112 may be oriented in either a vertical direction (e.g. Figure 8) or a horizontal direction (e.g. Figures 1, 3, and 4), allowing the harness 110 to pass through. The thickness of the first harness portion 114 in Figure 1 is disposed in a vertical direction of the seat 102. The aperture 112 shown in Figure 1 and Figure 3 is therefore narrow in the vertical direction of the seat 102 or infant receiving device 100, and relatively long across the seat 102 or infant receiving device 100. In this way, the harness 110 matches the form of the aperture 112 through which it extends. Other orientations of the aperture are within the scope of this disclosure, and will be discussed in relation to Figure 8. Similarly to the first harness portion 114, the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 have a thickness and a width, the thickness of the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 being less than the width of the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130. The width of the second harness portion 120 may be the same as the width of the third harness portion 130 as shown in Figures 1 and 4. Alternatively, one of the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 may have a greater width than the other. The combined widths of the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 are the same as the width of the first harness portion 114 such that, in the first position, the first harness portion 114 forms a constant width belt with the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 combined.

[0033] Turning again to Figure 4, the joint portion 140 may be disposed as a line 142 between the first harness portion 114 and the second 120 and third 130 harness portions respectively. The line 142 may be formed by rows of stitches, a reduced thickness of the harness in the region of the line 142, or by other suitable means. The line may be formed by compressing and or heating the harness 110 along the line 142 to reduce the thickness or to change the structural properties of the harness 110 material in that location. The resulting joint portion 140 may have a thickness that is less than any of the thickness of the first harness portion 114, the second harness portion 120, or the thirdharness portion 130. Since the thickness of the joint portion 140 is relatively small, the harness 110 has a tendency to fold around the joint portion 140 when manipulated by a user. That is, under a flexural load about an axis of the joint portion, the harness 110 at the joint portion 140 has a reduced second moment of area compared to the remainder of the harness 110. This may be understood as a concentration of stress in the area of the joint portion 140 or a preferred fold line along the joint portion 140. In other words, the joint portion 140 is relatively flexible compared to the remainder of the harness 110.

[0034] The line 142 is disposed at an angle to each of the first direction in which the first harness portion 114 extends and the second, perpendicular direction in which the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 extend when the harness 110 is manipulated into the T-shape in the second position. The line 142 is shown in Figure 4 at approximately 45 degrees to the first direction and the second, perpendicular direction, but it may be disposed at any suitable angle between the first direction and the perpendicular direction. In this way, the line 142 promotes the manipulation of the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 between their respective first and second positions when they are folded along the joint portion 140.

[0035] The harness 110 may be comprised of any suitable material. However, in the examples shown the harness 110 comprises a core formed from a mesh material and at least one outer layer formed from a fabric or other flexible sheet material. In this way, the core of the harness provides a thickness and a flexural rigidity to the harness and the at least one outer layer may protect the core from liquid ingress, and provide tensional stiffness to the harness. The at least one outer layer may also provide a structure through which stitches can be threaded to create the joint portion 140. The outer layer may be disposed on one side of the core, fully surrounding the core, or there may be multiple outer layers each at least partially surrounding the core.

[0036] The first harness portion 114 may include a central rib 150. The central rib 150 may be formed similarly to the joint portion 140, in that the central rib 150 may be formed by compression, the addition of stitching, or by otherwise reducing the bending stiffness of the harness 110 along the line of the central rib 150. By providing a central rib 150where the bending stiffness is reduced relative to the remainder of the first harness portion 114, the first harness portion 114 may be readily folded along the central rib 150. In this way, the harness 110 may be manipulated from a first configuration as shown in Figure 1, to halve the width of the first harness portion 114. As shown in Figures 7 and 8, preferentially folding the first harness portion 114 along the central rib 150 may allow the harness 110 to be retracted through a relatively smaller aperture 112 or through an aperture disposed vertically in the seat 102. The aperture 112 may therefore be sized to accept twice the thickness of the harness 110 and half of the width of the harness 110. In this way, the aperture 112 may obstruct less of the infant receiving area or seat 102 of the infant receiving device 100 and would be less likely to cause any disruption to its sleeping occupant.

[0037] The second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 each comprise at their free ends, a securement 160. The securement 160 may be disposed on the top of the second harness portion 120 and the top of the third harness portion 130 when the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 are each in their respective first positions as shown in Figure 1. When the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 are each folded into perpendicular positions such that the harness is in the T-shape as shown in Figure 4, the securement 160 is facing downwardly to meet a corresponding securing mechanism 162 on each side of the infant receiving device 100. Each securement 160 may be locked in the corresponding securing mechanism 162 when the harness 110 is in use. Each securing mechanism 162 may selectively lock the corresponding securement 160 or be disengaged to allow the harness 110 to be retracted. The securing mechanism 162 may be operatively coupled to the securement 160 for reconfiguring the infant receiving device 100 between the seated configuration and the sleep configuration. In this way, when the infant receiving device 100 is reconfigured from the seated configuration or from one of the seated configurations to the sleep configuration, the securements 160 may be automatically released from the corresponding securing mechanisms 162 so that the harness may freely retract. In an alternative method, the securements 160 may be manually released by one or more manual release mechanisms. Further, the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 may contain a controllingmeans or localised enforcement such as a rod, cable or other type of pulley system to cause the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 to align with the first harness portion 114 so that the harness may freely retract.

[0038] The operation of the infant receiving device 100 and the harness 110 will now be described in detail. In a first seating configuration as shown in Figure 1 and Figure 6a, an infant 610 (shown in Figure 6a) may be positioned in the infant receiving device 100. The harness 110 may be located between two legs of the infant to support the infant from the crotch. In order to fully secure the infant in place, the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 are folded into the second position and the securements 160 are locked into the securing mechanisms 162. In this way, the second harness portion 120 and the third harness portion 130 complete the securement of the infant in the infant receiving device 100 by extending across the legs and / or waist of the infant. The secured configuration is shown in Figures 4 and 6b.

[0039] When the harness 110 is no longer required or desired to encroach on the location of the infant, for example when the infant receiving device 100 is reconfigured from the seat configuration shown in Figures 1 and 2 to the sleep configuration shown in Figure 3, the harness 110 may be retracted through the aperture 112. In some embodiments, the harness 110 automatically retracts as infant receiving device 100 is reconfigured from the seat configuration to the sleep configuration. Retraction of the harness may be effected by connecting the first end 116 of the harness 110 to a retraction mechanism 170 as shown in Figure 5. The retraction mechanism 170 may draw the harness 110 through the aperture 112 in any suitable manner, for example using a reel under tension. However, the retraction mechanism 170 shown in Figure 5a utilises the relative motion of other parts of the infant receiving device 100 to effect the retraction. In particular, the first end 116 of the harness 110 is fixed to a first fixing point 172 of the infant receiving device 100. The harness 110 extends from the first fixing point 172 along a path via a pulley 174, the pulley 174 fixed to a second fixing point 176. The first fixing point 172 and the second fixing point 176 are two components of the infant receiving device 100 which move relative to one another when the infant receiving device 100 is reconfigured between the seating arrangement shown in Figure 2 and the sleeping arrangement shown inFigure 3. For example, the first fixing point 172 may be located on a first support frame 510 and the second fixing point 176 may be located on a second support frame 520. The first support frame 510 may include the mattress or seat back 104. The first support frame 510 and the second support frame 520 may be connected via a linkage mechanism 530. As the first support frame 510 and the second support frame 520 are moved together, it will be appreciated that the harness 110 may be let out, or extendable as the distance between the first fixing point 172 and the second fixing point 176 is reduced. The amount of harness 110 let out by this action may be multiplied by passing the harness 110 from the first fixing point 172, via the second fixing point 176 and then back to another pulley or fixing point 177 on the first support frame 510. Alternatively, the harness 110 may be shorter such that no doubling back is required as show in Figure 5b where the harness 110 terminates at the second fixing point 176. As the pulley 174 and the pulley or fixing point 177 move apart from one another, the path length of the harness 110 is extended. As the pulley 174 and the pulley or fixing point 177move closer to one another, the path length of the harness 110 is reduced. When the path length of the harness 110 is increased, the harness 110 is drawn into the aperture 112 and out of the infant receiving portion of the infant receiving device 100. When the path length of the harness 110 is decreased, the harness may be drawn or pulled back out of the aperture 112 and into the infant receiving portion of the infant receiving device in order to be used to secure the infant.

[0040] In the embodiment shown in Figures 7 and 8, when the harness 110 is drawn into the aperture 112, the first harness portion 114 is folded under the action of the restriction of the aperture 112 and may be compressed. The aperture 112 includes a guiding portion 113 (shown in Figures 9a and b, and lla-c) which is curved such that the harness 110 is gradually folded, compressed, and / or guided through the aperture 112 and towards the retraction mechanism 170. The guiding portion 113 may be a separate component, or it may be a lining of the aperture 112. The material forming the guiding portion 113 is chosen so as to provide low friction and / or a rigid surface over which the harness 110 can slide.Turning to Figure 7, a harness 110 is shown from a front side (top) and a rear side (bottom). It will be appreciated that harness 110 is provided having a first harness portion 114, a second portion 120, and a third portion 130 as described herein. The first harness portion 114 is configured to fold lengthwise along a fold line 750. The fold line 710 may be formed by a plurality of stitches. The fold line 750 may be substantially the same as the rib 150. In alternative embodiments, the fold line 750 may be formed in a suitable manner so as to promote folding of the first harness portion 114 in along a central section of the harness 110. The fold line 750 may be a central weakness in the structure of the harness 110. The second portion 120 and the third portion 130 may both include securement 160. The connectors 160 may be secured to ends of the respective second and third portions fixedly or the respective second and third portions may be looped through a part of the connectors 160. The elastic fixing 760 may be used to provide some give in the harness system. The elastic fixing 760 may be permanently coupled to the connector 160 and the respective second or third harness portion, or alternatively looped through a part of the connector 160. In the state shown on the third portion 130 in Figure 7, the connector 160 may therefore be flexibly held by the elastic fixing 760. In this state, the connector 160 will have some resilience such that pulling on the connector 160 it may extend. In addition to the elastic fixing 760, the connector 160 may be further secured to the respective second portion 120 or third portion 130 by a securable strap 770. The securable strap 770 includes a strap fixing 772 which may be secured to a corresponding strap fixing 774. The strap fixing 772 and the corresponding strap fixing 774 may include poppers, magnet, buttons, or any other suitable fixation. Whilst the connector 160 shown on the third portion 130 in Figure 7 is shown secured to the third portion 130 by the elastic fixing 760, it will be appreciated that the length of securable strap 770 may be folded over and strap fixing 772 secured to corresponding strap fixing 774 so as to shorten the length of the respective second portion 120 or third portion 130 to which it is connected. In this way, a rigid connection between the connector 160 and the strap 110 may be selectively engaged. The length of the elastic fixing 760 is configured such that when the strap fixing 772 and corresponding strap fixing 775 are connected, the elastic fixing 760 is engaged prior to the rigid connection of the securable strap 770 beingengaged. In this way, the connector 160 may have some 'give' in it prior to holding the harness 110 tightly. In this way, the same harness 110 may accommodate multiple size occupants. It will be appreciated that by providing an elastic fixing 760 in combination with a securable strap 770 provides elastic adjustment of the harness 110 without requiring changes to the length of the harness 110.

[0041] The second portion 120 is connected to the first harness portion 114 on a first side 780 of the fold line 750. The third portion 130 is connected to the first harness portion 114 on a second side 782 of the fold line 750. In this way, the second portion 120 and the third portion 130 may face each other when the harness 110 is folded along the fold line 750. Any of the first harness portion 114, the second portion 120, and the third portion 130 may comprise webbing material, padding, fabric, or any other suitable materials for constructing the harness. Where the first harness portion 114 is formed from webbing, the webbing may extend into the infant support and provide an optimal surface for passing over pulleys or fixed points in the mechanism. In addition to webbing, the first harness portion 114, the second portion 120, and / or the third portion 130 may include foam, padding, or some other soft materials to provide a compliant structure suitable for coming into contact with an infant.

[0042] Figure 8 shows the harness of Figure 7 deployed in the infant support 100 and wherein the connectors 760 are secured to the infant support 100. The aperture 112 has a vertical orientation, for example along a longitudinal direction of seat 102. That is, the aperture 112 or slot through which the harness 110 extends is narrower across the infant support 100 than lengthwise along the infant support 100. It will be appreciated that a vertical aperture 112 as shown in Figure 8 may promote folding of the harness 110 lengthwise along the fold line 750. However, various aperture sizes and shapes may be utilised within the scope of this disclosure.

[0043] In another aspect of the disclosed mechanism, it may be advantageous to provide a controllable and / or compact mechanism for retracting the harness 110. Turning to Figures 9a and 9b, the harness 110 may extend out of the aperture 112 and into the infant receiving portion of the infant receiving device 100. The path 180 of the harness 110 isshown in a non-retracted state in Figure 9a, and in a retracted state in Figure 9b. In the non-retracted state the path 180 length is relatively short and a greater proportion of the length of the harness 110 is in the infant receiving portion. The harness 110 is fixed to the first fixing point 172 at the first end 116 of the harness 110. The harness 110 may be looped around the fixing point 172 or otherwise secured. The path of the harness 110 extends around a roller 178 secured to the second fixing point 176 and then through the aperture 112. In the position shown in Figure 9a, the path length is relatively short because the first fixing point and the second fixing point are relatively close to one another.

[0044] Figure 9b shows the retracted state of the retraction mechanism 170. The first fixing point 172 is moved away from the location of the second fixing point 176 and the second fixing point 176 is moved away from the location of the first fixing point 172. In this way, the path length of the harness 110 behind the aperture 112 is relatively greater than in the non-retracted state. Since the path length is greater, a smaller length of the harness 110 is available in the infant receiving portion. The retraction may partially retract the harness 110, or the increase in path length may be sufficient so as to fully retract the entire harness out of the infant receiving portion and through the aperture 112.

[0045] The roller 178 has a diameter D sufficient to fully separate the harness 110 from self intersection in the retracted state. That is, the diameter D of the roller is at least as large as the thickness of the harness 110, and preferably twice as large as the thickness of the harness. Where the diameter D of the roller 178 is at least the thickness or twice the thickness, even when the harness compresses over the roller 178, the portions of the harness 110 extending back from the roller are not close enough together to rub. Conversely, a small roller may not fully separate the portions of the harness that are extending away from the roller 178 and the harness would self intersect. Furthermore, the first fixing point 172 is located relative to the second fixing point 176 at an angle about the roller 178 such that the harness does not self-intersect. In Figure 9b, this can be seen as the offset L between a first portion 182 of the path 180 and a second portion 184 of the path 180. Since the diameter D of the roller 178 prevents self-intersection of the harness 110, the harness 110 may be retracted with relatively lessresistance than that caused by the harness 110 interfering with its own movement.

[0046] Figures 10a and 10b show the retraction mechanism 170 of Figures 9a and 9b from a lower perspective. The harness 110 and the path 180 of the harness are not shown in Figures 10a and 10b for clarity. However, the harness 110 is attached to the first fixing point 172 and the roller 178 is attached to the second fixing point 176. The first fixing point 172 is rotatable about a fulcrum 190 by means of a first arm 192. The roller 178 and the second fixing point 176 are rotatable about the fulcrum 190 by means of a second arm 196. When the first fixing point 172 and the second fixing point 176 move apart from each other, the first arm 192 and the second arm 196 rotate about the fulcrum 190 in opposite directions. Figure 10b shows the mechanism of Figure 10a wherein the first fixing point 172 and the second fixing point 176 have moved apart.

[0047] Movement of the first arm 192 and the second arm 196 may be coordinated by a meshing mechanism 200. The meshing mechanism 200 comprises a first mesh arm 202 and a second mesh arm 204 each connected to the respective first arm 192 and the second arm 196. The first mesh arm 202 is also connected to the second mesh arm 204 at a pivot 206. The pivot 206 is guidable within a channel 208 so as to control the motion of the meshing mechanism 200. Together, the first mesh arm 202 and the second mesh arm 204 form a two bar linkage mechanism which coordinates the motion of the first arm 192 and the second arm 196 so that they move together or apart from one another in tandem. Moving in tandem allows the mechanism to simultaneously retract the harness 110 with the first fixing point 172 and increase the path length 180 to further draw the harness 110 through the aperture 112.

[0048] The roller 178 includes a rolling surface 179 over which the harness 110 can readily slide. This may be achieved by providing a low friction rolling surface 179, by providing a bearing within the roller 178, or a combination of the two. In a further alternative, the surface 179 of the roller 178 may have a relatively high friction (e.g. a knurled surface) but the rolling resistance is low by providing a bearing allowing the roller 178 to rotate. Since the first fixing point 172 and the secondfixing point 176 are moving in an arc about the fulcrum 190, there may be a tendency for a harness 110 passing over the roller 178 to slide off the roller 178 either in a direction towards the fulcrum 190 or away from the fulcrum 190. The roller 178 is therefore provided with a taper portion 210 at the end of the roller 178 proximate to the fulcrum 190. Since the taper portion 210 has a diameter greater than the diameter of the rest of the roller 178, the taper portion 210 acts to retain the harness 110 in position around the roller 178. Additionally or alternatively, the whole length of the roller 178 may be tapered so as to promote alignment of the harness 110 around the roller 178. In another alternative, the taper portion 210 may be provided at the end of the roller 178 distal to the fulcrum 190. In combination with a harness 110 which is elastically deformable, in particular for harnesses formed from auxetic materials, the harness 110 may tend to shift towards the larger diameter portion of the taper 210. Therefore a taper having a larger diameter on the distal portion will prevent the harness 110 from shifting proximally along the roller 178.

[0049] Turning now to Figures lla-c, an embodiment of a harness retraction mechanism is described. Figure 11a shows the mechanism in a retracted state, Figure lib in a partially retracted state, and Figure 11c in an extended state. Progressing from Figure 11a to Figure 11c shows the harness 110 extending, which may be achieved with tension applied by pulling the harness 110 through the port or aperture 112.

[0050] Conversely, progressing from Figure 11c to Figure lib, and to Figure 11a shows the harness 110 being retracted through the port or aperture 112. Retraction may be manually or automatically effected.

[0051] Starting with Figure 11a, harness 110 is in the fully retracted state where a first end 1110 of the harness 110 is contained within the port 112. The harness extends through the port 112 into the infant support mechanism 1100. A second end 1120 of the harness 110 may be secured to a fixing point on another part of the infant support such as an upper portion or first support frame of the seat which moves relative to the seat 104. The harness 110 extends from the second end 1120 over a fixed pivot 1130. Thus, as the harness 110 is allowed to pass from the second end 1120 over the fixed pivot 1130, the harness 110 may be allowed to extend out of the port 112. Additionally or alternatively to the fixed pivot 1130, and as shown in Figures lla-c, asliding pivot 1140 may be provided. Harness 110 is passed over the sliding pivot 1140 providing a similar function to fixed pivot 1130.

[0052] However, by moving the sliding pivot 1130 from the position shown in Figure 11a to the positions shown in Figures lib and 11c (e.g. moving the sliding pivot 1130 closer to port 112), additional length of the harness 110 may be allowed to extend from the port 112.

[0053] The sliding pivot 1140 may be slidably coupled to the infant support along a rail 1150, a linear bearing, or other suitable sliding mechanism. Sliding of the sliding pivot 1140 may be caused by an additional strap 1160 or tensioner. The strap 1160 may be connected fixedly to the same upper portion or support frame as the harness 110 at the second end 1120. The strap 1160 may pass over a second fixed pivot 1170 where it is secured to the sliding pivot at a fixed point 1180. As can be seen in Figure lib, as the sliding pivot 1140 is allowed to slide towards the port 112, the harness 110 may be further extended. By combining the fixed pivot 1130 and the moving pivot 1140, a relatively small motion of the support frame of the infant support may be translated into a relatively large retraction or extension of the harness 110. By providing such mechanism, the harness may be readily extended or retracted with little input from a user and automatically upon reconfiguring the infant support between a flat configuration and a seated configuration.

[0054] Any of the mechanisms described herein may be operated by means of a cable, a strap, webbing, gears, or any other suitable drive.

[0055] Preferably, a cable is provided which links the retraction mechanism to another part of the infant receiving device 100 such that motion of the infant receiving device causes actuation of the retraction mechanism. Once the harness 110 is retracted through the aperture 112, the infant receiving device 100 may be free of obstruction caused by the harness 110. As shown in Figure 3, the harness 110 is no longer present in the infant receiving portion avoiding the risk of the harness trapping or otherwise interfering with the infant. That is, the harness 110 is fully retracted into the seat 100. The aperture 112 may be covered when the harness 110 is fully retracted by means of a cover, part of a mattress, a flap, or otherwise sealed.When it is desired to use the harness 110 again, the infant receiving device 100 may be reconfigured into the seated configuration shown in figures 1 and 4. In reverse, the retraction mechanism 170 no longer holds the harness 110 behind the aperture 112 and a user may manually grasp the harness 110 and pull the harness back out of the aperture 112.

[0056] The present disclosure contemplates methods of assembling the devices and infant supports described herein. In order to assemble the infant support an infant support surface may be provided. The harness may be fed into the infant support either through the aperture 112, or it may be fed from inside the infant support from behind the aperture 112. In either case, the harness may be passed about the retraction mechanism and secured to the fixed points in the infant support such that the fixed points may operate the retraction mechanism.

[0057] Figures 12a, 12b, and 12c show an enlarged cross-sectional view of a securement 160 according to the present disclosure. In particular, Figure 12a shows the securement 160 located on the sidewall 106, although the securement 160 may be located on any suitable structure. The securement 160 further includes the buckle 1210 which may be secured to a harness as described herein with reference to the other described embodiments. However, the buckle 1210 may be attached to any structure desired to be secured to the sidewall 106. Positioned within the sidewall 106 is movable locking member 1220. Movable locking member 1220 may be shaped as a button for interaction by a user. Movable locking member 1220 is configured to slide in and out of the sidewall 106, and is outwardly biased by resilient member 1240. Resilient member may be a coil spring, leaf spring, or any other suitable resilient support. As shown in Figure 12a, the buckle 1210 is positioned on top of and surrounding the movable locking member 1220. Buckle 1210 includes a central opening 1215 through which the movable locking member 1220 can extend in the engaged position shown in Figure 12a. Buckle 1210 is engaged with fixed locking member 1230 such that the buckle 1210 cannot be lifted away from the sidewall 106. As shown in Figure 12a, the buckle 1210 cannot be disengaged from the fixed locking member 1230 since movable locking member 1220 is positioned so as to block disengagement. That is, movable lockingmember 1220 includes a blocking portion 1225 configured to prevent the buckle 1210 from rotating or moving from the engaged position. Figure 12b shows the securement 160 wherein the movable blocking member 1220 has been slid into the sidewall 106. In order to slide into the sidewall 106, the movable blocking member 1220 must be pushed with enough force so as to overcome the resilient member 1240.

[0058] Movement of the blocking member 1220 may either be done by a user manually pushing the movable blocking member 1220, or it may be done automatically by another mechanism engaged with the movable blocking member 1220. For example, the movable blocking member 1220 may be engaged with a release mechanism for causing the infant seat to be rotated, such that when a user changes the seat from bouncing mode to sleep mode, the movable blocking member 1220 may be moved into the sidewall 106 allowing for disengagement of the buckle 1210. In this way, the buckle 1210 may be released automatically. Actuation of the buckle 1210 releasing may be caused when transitioning the seat from bouncer mode to sleeping mode.

[0059] However, the actuation mechanism may be configured to only actuate the movable blocking member 1220 once the seat has passed a newborn mode between the bouncing mode and the sleeping mode. That is, the buckle may be configured to only release once the seat is reaching the sleeping mode.

[0060] As can be seen in Figure 12c, once the movable member 1220 has moved into the sidewall 106, the blocking portion 1225 no longer prevents rotation or movement of the buckle 1210. That is, the blocking portion 1225 has been moved from a first position in which it blocks release of the buckle 1210 (as shown in Figure 12a) to a second position in which it does not block release of the buckle 1210 (as shown in Figures 12b and 12c).

[0061] The securement 160 comprises a ramped portion 1250 of the sidewall 106. The ramped portion 1250 engages with the buckle 1210 to promote smooth rotation of the buckle 1210 from the engaged position of Figure 12a, to the disengaged position of Figure 12c.

[0062] The buckle 1210, comprises a central opening 1215 through which the movable locking member 1220 may extend. The buckle 1210 is configured to engage with the fixed locking member 1230 via aprotrusion 1235 which extends inwardly within the central opening 1215. Such a configuration allows for no parts of the buckle 1210 to be protruding outwardly for engagement with other parts of the securement 160. As such, the buckle is free from obstructions or protrusions which may contribute to the buckle snagging during use. For example, the buckle free from obstructions or protrusions may readily slide over clothing, between fabrics, and bedding, and through slots or openings in the mechanism.

[0063] As shown in Figure 12c, when the buckle 1210 is not engaged with the securement 106, the buckle 1210 floats above the sidewall 106 providing a visual indication that the buckle is not engaged. To engage the buckle 1210, a user may press down on the buckle 1210 overcoming the resilience of the resilient member 1240 until the buckle 1210 reaches the engaged position shown in Figures 12a and 12b. Once engaged, and when the movable member 1220 is not being forced inwardly by manual pressing from the user, or actuation from rotating the seat from bouncing mode to sleep mode, the movable member 1220 may move outwardly to the engaged position shown in Figure 12a under action of the resilient member 1240.

[0064] The following is a non-exhaustive list of aspects of the disclosure which may form the basis of claimed subject-matter:

[0065] Aspect 1 A harness for a seat comprising: a first harness portion extending in a first direction from a first end to a second end, a second harness portion secured to the second end of the first harness portion, wherein the second harness portion is configured to fold between a first position and a second position, and wherein in the first position the second harness portion extends perpendicular to the first direction and in the second position the second harness portion extends in the first direction.

[0066] Aspect 2 The harness according to aspect 1, wherein the first harness portion has a first thickness, the second harness portion has a second thickness, and the first harness portion and the second harness portion are secured together at a joint portion, wherein the joint portion has a third thickness, and the third thickness is less than each of the first thickness and the second thickness.Aspect 3 The harness according to aspect 2, wherein the joint portion comprises one or more stitches disposed in a line and optionally, wherein the line is disposed at an angle to the first direction and at an angle to the second direction, and further optionally wherein the line is disposed at a 45 degree angle between the first direction and the second direction.

[0067] Aspect 4 The harness according to aspect 2, wherein the joint portion is flexible relative to the second harness portion such that the harness preferentially folds at the joint portion, and optionally wherein the joint portion is formed by one or both of heat and compression.

[0068] Aspect 5 The harness according to any preceding aspect, further comprising a third harness portion secured to the second end of the first harness portion, wherein the third harness portion is configured to fold between a first position and a second position, and wherein in the first position the third harness portion extends perpendicular to the first direction and in the second position the third harness portion extends in the first direction.

[0069] Aspect 6 The harness according to aspect 5, wherein the third harness portion in the first position extends in the opposite direction to the second harness portion in the first position.

[0070] Aspect 7 The harness of aspect 5 or aspect 6, wherein when the second harness portion and the third harness portion are each in their respective first positions, the harness conforms to a T-shape.

[0071] Aspect 8 The harness of any preceding aspect, wherein the first harness portion has a first width and the second harness portion has a second width, and the second width is approximately half of the first width. Aspect 9 The harness of aspect 8, when dependent on aspects 5 to 7, wherein the third harness portion has a third width and the third width is equal to the second width.

[0072] Aspect 10 The harness of any preceding aspect, wherein the harness comprises a core formed from a mesh material, the core being at least partially surrounded by an outer layer, and optionally wherein the outer layer is disposed on one side of the core.Aspect 11 The harness of any preceding aspect, wherein the first harness portion comprises a central rib extending along the first harness portion in the first direction, and wherein the first harness portion has a reduced bending stiffness in the location of the central rib. Aspect 12 The harness of aspect 11, wherein the first harness portion is configured to fold along the central rib.

[0073] Aspect 13 A seat or an infant receiving device comprising the harness of any preceding aspect.

[0074] Aspect 14 The seat or infant receiving device of aspect 13, wherein the seat comprises an aperture through which the harness extends.

[0075] Aspect 15 The seat or infant receiving device of aspect 14, wherein the aperture has a length and a width, and wherein the width of the aperture is sized to receive twice the thickness of the first harness portion and wherein the length of the aperture is sized to receive half the width of the first harness portion.

[0076] Aspect 16 The seat or infant receiving device of aspect 14 or aspect 15, wherein the aperture comprises a curved guiding portion to bias the first harness portion into a folded configuration when retracted through the aperture.

[0077] Aspect 17 The seat or infant receiving device of any of aspects 13 to 16, wherein the harness comprises a fixed end attached to a retraction mechanism, and wherein the retraction mechanism is configured to optionally retract the first harness portion through the aperture.

[0078] Aspect 18 A seat comprising: a harness extending from a first end of the harness to a second end of the harness, wherein the first end of the harness is connected to a retraction mechanism, and further comprising a movable pulley configured to engage with the harness between the first end and the second end, the movable pulley being configurable in a first position wherein the harness has a first path length and a second position wherein the harness has a second path length, and wherein the second path length is greater than the first path length.

[0079] Aspect 19 The seat of aspect 18, further comprising an aperture through which the harness extends.Aspect 20 The seat of aspect 19, wherein the retraction mechanism comprises a joint fixed to the first end of the harness, and wherein the joint is configured to move relative to the aperture such that movement of the joint in a first direction causes the harness to retract through the aperture, and movement of the joint in a second direction allows the harness to be drawn out through the aperture.

[0080] Aspect 21 The seat of any of aspects 18 to 20, wherein the movable pulley comprises a roller having a first diameter, and wherein the harness is configured to slide over a rolling surface of the roller, and optionally wherein the first diameter of the roller is at least twice the thickness of the harness.

[0081] Aspect 22 The seat of aspect 20 or 21, wherein the harness extends through the aperture in a first direction, and wherein the joint is configured to move relative to the aperture in a second direction different to the first direction, and wherein the movable pulley is configured to move in a third direction different to the first direction. Aspect 23 The seat of any of aspects 20 to 22, wherein the joint and the movable pulley are configured to move in opposite directions so as to simultaneously retract the harness and increase a path length of the harness.

[0082] Aspect 24 The seat of aspect 23, wherein the joint and the movable pulley are configured to move in opposite directions about a common fulcrum.

[0083] Aspect 25 The seat of aspect 24, wherein the joint and the movable pulley are connected by a two bar linkage mechanism.

[0084] Aspect 26 The seat of aspect 24 or 25, when dependent on aspect 21, wherein the roller comprises a taper portion, the taper portion having an increasing diameter proximate to the common fulcrum.

[0085] Aspect 27 The seat of any of aspects 18 to 26, wherein the retraction mechanism is operated by a cable, and optionally wherein the cable is connected to an adjustable part of the seat.

[0086] Aspect 28 The seat of any of aspects 18 to 27, wherein the retraction mechanism and the movable pulley are positioned such that a path ofthe harness between the first end and the second end does not selfintersect.

[0087] The disclosures in United Kingdom patent application number GB2419140.5, from which this application claims priority, and in the abstract accompanying this application are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A harness for an infant support comprising a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion, wherein each of the second portion and the third portion are connected to the first portion at a first end of the first portion.

2. The harness of claim 1, wherein the first portion is configured to fold lengthwise along a fold line.

3. The harness of claim 2, wherein the second portion is connected to the first portion on a first side of the fold line, and wherein the third portion is connected to the first portion on a second side of the fold line.

4. The harness of any preceding claim, wherein the fold line is formed by a plurality of stitches extending through the first portion.

5. The harness of any preceding claim, wherein the first portion comprises webbing.

6. The harness of any preceding claim, wherein the first portion comprises padding, and optionally wherein the padding extends only a portion of the length of the first portion.

7. The harness of any preceding claim, wherein the second portion comprises a first connector and the third portion comprises a second connector, and wherein the first connector and the second connector are configured to secure the harness to a first corresponding connector and a second corresponding connector.

8. An infant support comprising a harness, and an infant support surface.

9. An infant support comprising the harness of any of claims 1 to 6, and an infant support surface.

10. The infant support of claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the harness is received in a port defined in the infant support surface.

11. The infant support of claim 10, wherein the port has a length and a width, and optionally wherein the length is greater than the width.

12. The infant support of claim 11, wherein the length of the port is greater than a width of the first portion in a folded configuration, and wherein the length is less than a width of the first portion in an unfolded configuration.

13. The infant support of claim llor claim 12, wherein the width of the port is greater than a thickness of the first portion in a folded configuration, and optionally wherein the width of the port is greater than a combined thickness of the second portion and the third portion.

14. The infant support of any of claims 10 to 13, wherein the harness is fixed to a first structure of the infant support at a second end of the first portion, and extends from the first structure through the port.

15. The infant support of claim 14, wherein the first structure is a movable portion of the infant support, and optionally wherein the movable portion is a second support frame.

16. The infant support of claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the harness extends from the first structure, over a first pivot, and through the port.

17. The infant support of claim 16, wherein the first pivot is fixed to a second structure, and optionally wherein the second structure is a first support frame.

18. The infant support of claim 17, when dependent on claims 15 and 16, wherein the first support frame and the second support frame are configured to move relative one another to change a configuration of the infant support, and optionally wherein the first support frame and the second support frame define a seat in a first configuration, and wherein the first support frame and the second support frame define a bassinet in a second configuration.

19. The infant support of any of claims 14 to 16, wherein the first pivot is slidably mounted to a second structure, and optionally wherein the second structure is a first support frame.

20. The infant support of claim 19, wherein the first pivot is slidably mounted to the second structure on a linear bearing.

21. The infant support of claim 20, further comprising a tensioner coupled between the second support frame and the linear bearing.

22. The infant support of claim 21, wherein the tensioner is configured to cause the linear bearing to slide relative to the second support frame when the first support frame and the second support frame are moved relative to one another.

23. An infant support comprising a support surface configurable in a first seated configuration, and a second flat configuration, the infant support further comprising a harness extending through a port defined in the support surface, the harness configured to foreshorten when the support surface is in the flat configuration, and the harness is configured to lengthen when the support surface is in the seated configuration.

24. The infant support of claim 23, wherein the support surface is manually manipulable between the first seated configuration and the second flat configuration, or wherein the support surface is controlled between the first seated configuration and the second flat configuration by an electromechanical actuator.

25. The infant support of claim 23 or claim 24, wherein the harness is passed over one or more pulleys or sliding supports such that manipulation of the support surface between the first seated configuration and the second flat configuration is multiplied for the motion of the harness.

26. A method of assembling an infant support according to any of claims 8 to 25, comprising providing the infant support surface, and coupling the harness with the infant support surface.

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