Cross-Reference to Related Application
Technical Field
[0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of children's accessories, and
more particularly to motion devices for children.
Background
[0003] Various forms of children's motion devices are known for use with infants and children
at different stages of their development. For example, bouncers, jumpers, rockers,
seats, swings, and the like are used to provide entertainment, exercise and/or calming
motion for children. Children's motion devices commonly utilize flexible metal springs
or other flexible or resilient biasing elements to impart a bouncing or other cyclical
type of motion. Such biasing components may suffer from a number of disadvantages,
such as for example, high material costs leading to increased production expense,
increased complexity of manufacturing and assembly, susceptibility to fatigue failure,
loss of elasticity and material creep over time, environmental concerns with material
treatment and finishing processes such as metal powder-coating, increased weight resulting
in higher transport and handling costs, production and sourcing difficulties, etc.
[0004] Accordingly, it can be seen that needs exist for improvements to children's motion
devices. It is to the provision of improved children's motion devices meeting these
and other needs that the present invention is primarily directed.
Summary
[0005] In example embodiments, the present invention provides improved children's motion
devices in various formats that incorporate non-metal resilient biasing elements to
impart a bouncing or other cyclical type of motion. In example embodiments, the one
or more resilient biasing elements comprise a polymeric elastomer material, such as
for example a thermoplastic polyester elastomer.
[0006] In one aspect, the present invention relates to a children's bouncer device including
a base configured to support the device on a support surface, a child-supporting portion
supported above the base and configured to support a child, and at least one non-metal
resilient biasing element operatively engaged between the base and the child-supporting
portion to allow a bouncing motion of the child-supporting portion relative to the
base. The resilient biasing element preferably includes a body formed of a polymeric
elastomer material such as, for example, a thermoplastic polyester elastomer. The
body preferably has a first side attached to the base, a second side attached to the
child supporting portion, and at least one interconnecting member extending between
the first side and the second side. The at least one interconnecting member preferably
deforms elastically and resiliently and imparts a counter-biasing force on the child-supporting
portion in response to the bouncing motion of the child-supporting portion.
[0007] In another aspect, the invention relates to a children's motion device including
a base, a child-supporting portion, and at least one non-metal resilient biasing element
operatively engaged between the base and the child-supporting portion to allow motion
of the child-supporting portion relative to the base. The resilient biasing element
is preferably formed from a thermoplastic polyester elastomer, for example by molding.
In particular example embodiments, the thermoplastic polyester elastomer is a DuPont™
Hytrel® material.
[0008] In still another aspect, the invention relates to a children's jumper device including
a base frame that includes a plurality of frame segments coupled to form a frame assembly,
the frame assembly including lower frame legs and upper frame arms. The jumper device
preferably also includes a child-supporting portion including a seat panel having
an opening formed therein, and a seat sling having a pair of leg openings formed therein
affixed to the seat panel and extending across and beneath the opening. The jumper
device preferably also includes a plurality of non-metal resilient biasing elements
suspending the child-supporting portion from the upper frame arms of the base frame
and allowing a bouncing motion of the child-supporting portion relative to the base
frame. The resilient biasing elements are preferably formed from a thermoplastic polyester
elastomer material and are configured to elastically and resiliently deform under
tension and provide a progressively increasing counter-biasing force during at least
a portion of the bouncing motion of the child-supporting portion.
[0009] In another aspect, the invention relates to a chair including a base, a seat portion,
and an attachment bracket operatively engaged between the base and the seat portion
to allow a pivotal rocking or bouncing motion of the seat portion relative to the
base. The attachment bracket is preferably formed from a thermoplastic polyester elastomer
material.
[0010] These and other aspects, features and advantages of the invention will be understood
with reference to the drawing figures and detailed description herein, and will be
realized by means of the various elements and combinations particularly pointed out
in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description
and the following brief description of the drawings and detailed description of example
embodiments are explanatory of example embodiments of the invention, and are not restrictive
of the invention, as claimed.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0011]
Figure 1A is a perspective view of a children's bouncer device according to an example
embodiment of the present invention. Figures 1B, 1C and 1D show successive degrees
of flexure of resilient biasing element portions through a range of motion of the
bouncer device according to example form.
Figure 2A is a perspective view of a children's bouncer device according to another
example embodiment of the present invention. Figures 2B, 2C and 2D show further details
of the structure and operation of the bouncer device according to example form.
Figure 3 is a perspective view of a children's bouncer device according to another
example embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4A is a perspective view of a children's bouncer device according to another
example embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4B shows further detail of a resilient
biasing element portion of the bouncer device according to example form.
Figure 5A is a perspective view of a children's bouncer device according to another
example embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5B shows further detail of a resilient
biasing element portion of the bouncer device according to example form.
Figure 6A is a perspective view of a children's bouncer device according to another
example embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6B shows further detail of a resilient
biasing element portion of the bouncer device according to example form.
Figure 7A is a perspective view of a children's bouncer device according to another
example embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7B shows an assembly view of the
bouncer device constructed according to example form.
Figure 8 is a perspective view of a children's bouncer device according to another
example embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 9 is a perspective view of a children's bouncer device according to another
example embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 10 is a perspective view of a children's bouncer device according to another
example embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 11 is a perspective view of a children's bouncer device according to another
example embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 12 is a perspective view of a children's bouncer device according to another
example embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 13 is a perspective view of a children's jumper device according to an example
embodiment of the present invention.
Figures 14A - 14D show a sequence of folding a children's jumper device from an operational
configuration to a folded configuration according to an example embodiment of the
present invention.
Detailed Description of Example Embodiments
[0012] The present invention may be understood more readily by reference to the following
detailed description of example embodiments taken in connection with the accompanying
drawing figures, which form a part of this disclosure. It is to be understood that
this invention is not limited to the specific devices, methods, conditions or parameters
described and/or shown herein, and that the terminology used herein is for the purpose
of describing particular embodiments by way of example only and is not intended to
be limiting of the claimed invention. Any and all patents and other publications identified
in this specification are incorporated by reference as though fully set forth herein.
[0013] Also, as used in the specification including the appended claims, the singular forms
"a," "an," and "the" include the plural, and reference to a particular numerical value
includes at least that particular value, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" or "approximately" one particular value
and/or to "about" or "approximately" another particular value. When such a range is
expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the
other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by
use of the antecedent "about," it will be understood that the particular value forms
another embodiment.
[0014] With reference now to the drawing figures, wherein like reference numbers represent
corresponding parts throughout the several views, Figures 1A - 1D show a children's
bouncer device 10 according to an example embodiment of the present invention. The
bouncer device 10 generally comprises a base 20, a child-supporting portion 40, and
at least one non-metal resilient biasing element 60 operatively engaged between the
base and the child-supporting portion to allow a pivotal or bouncing motion M of the
child-supporting portion relative to the base.
[0015] In the depicted embodiment, the base 20 comprises a substantially rigid oval ring-shaped
support platform configured to support the device 10 on a floor or other generally
flat support surface. In alternate embodiments, the base 20 may have a circular, square,
rectangular, polygonal, U-shaped, or other regular or irregular geometric configuration
or structure. In example embodiments, the base 20 may comprise one or more base segments
permanently or semi-permanently coupled together into an assembly, for example a front
segment, first and second side segments, and/or a back segment; or alternatively may
comprise a single unitary component. The base 20 may be constructed of a molded plastic,
metal, wood, composite, and/or other structural material(s) of construction. The base
20 may optionally comprise one or more non-slip feet or contact surface components
on its lower surface, for stability and positioning on the support surface, and/or
to prevent marring the support surface.
[0016] In example embodiments, the child-supporting portion 40 comprises a seat or support
assembly configured for supporting a child therein or thereon. In the depicted embodiment,
the child-supporting portion 40 includes a peripheral support ring 42 at least partially
surrounding and supporting an inner sling or seat portion 44. In example embodiments,
the peripheral support ring 42 comprises a substantially rigid structure, for example
constructed of a molded plastic, metal, wood, composite, and/or other material(s),
and the inner sling or seat portion 44 comprises a flexible and/or cushioned fabric
or soft-goods construction affixed and supported at its periphery by the peripheral
support ring. In example forms, the child-supporting portion comprises a headrest
or head end portion 50, a seatback portion 52, a seat bottom portion 54, a footrest
or foot end portion 56, and side bolsters or armrest portions 58, configured to comfortably
and securely support and retain children of a range of sizes and developmental stages
therein, for example ranging from infants to young children.
[0017] In example embodiments, at least one non-metal resilient biasing element 60 is operatively
engaged between the base 20 and the child-supporting portion 40. The resilient biasing
element 60 is preferably configured to enable and impart a bouncing or other cyclical
type of motion (indicated by directional arrow
M) to the child-supporting portion 40, along with a child seated or supported thereon,
through a range of motion between a first or upper position (shown in solid lines
in Figure 1) and a second or lower position (shown in broken lines), while the base
20 remains generally stationary. In example embodiments, the one or more resilient
biasing elements 60 comprise molded components formed from a polymeric elastomer material,
such as for example a thermoplastic polyester elastomer, providing substantial elastic
resilience along a range of motion in compression and/or tension. In particular embodiments,
the one or more resilient biasing elements 60 comprise a DuPont™ Hytrel®thermoplastic
elastomer. In alternate embodiments, the resilient biasing elements comprise other
elastomers, polymers, composites, natural or synthetic rubber, metals, woods, or other
materials providing a suitable degree of elastic deformation, and resisting plastic
deformation, under intended loads and over the desired range of motion. In example
embodiments, the resilient biasing elements 60 may be formed by various processes,
for example formed as a molded body by injection molding, blow molding or other molding
technique, extruded, cast, woven, or otherwise fabricated. The configuration of the
resilient biasing element 60, including without limitation the material durometer
or hardness, reinforcement components, the thickness and shape of the material, and/or
the location(s) of placement between the base 20 and the child-supporting portion
40 are selected and designed depending upon parameters including the intended loading
(e.g., weight range of child), and desired range of movement, speed and type of movement.
In example embodiments, the resilient biasing element 60 is formed separately from
the base 20 and the child-supporting portion 40, and the components are attached by
adhesive, welding or bonding, and/or one or more coupling elements or attachment members.
In alternate embodiments, the resilient biasing element 60 is formed together with
the base 20 and the child-supporting portion 40, for example by co-molding or other
fabrication process. In example embodiments, the material of the resilient biasing
element 60 is of a bright or contrasting color differing in appearance from the material
of the base 20 and the child-supporting portion 40, allowing improved external visibility
of its flexure and elastic deformation as the device 10 bounces when used.
[0018] In the depicted example embodiment, the resilient biasing element 60 comprises a
curved molding or panel of polymeric elastomer material extending along at least a
portion of the front and sides of the bouncer device 10, with its lower side affixed
or attached to the front portion of the base 20 and its upper side affixed or attached
to the foot end 56 of the child-supporting portion 40. One or more openings or cutout
portions 65 are optionally formed in the panel of material of the resilient biasing
element 60, with the remaining material of the resilient biasing element forming one
or more generally vertical ribs or upright struts, for example a plurality of ribs
or struts 72, 74, 76 extending in a pair of spaced arrays along each side of the resilient
biasing element, having lower ends adjacent the base 20 and upper ends adjacent the
child-supporting portion 40. As seen with reference to Figures 1C and 1D, the struts
72,74,76 optionally provide a progressive stiffness which increases in resistance
and upward bias as the child-supporting portion 40 moves downwardly relative to the
base 20, compressing successive portions of the material of the resilient biasing
element 60. For example, as the child-supporting portion 40 begins to move downwardly
relative to the base 20 (Fig. 1 C), the first or taller strut 72 resiliently and elastically
compresses and deforms, for example buckling inwardly into contact with the second
or intermediate strut 74, and providing an initial degree of upward biasing force.
As the child-supporting portion 40 continues to move further downwardly relative to
the base 20, the first and second struts 72, 74 resiliently and elastically compress
and deform together with an increasing degree of stiffness, for example buckling inwardly
into contact with the third or shorter strut 76, and provide an additional greater
degree of upward biasing force. And as the child-supporting portion 40 continues to
move still further downwardly relative to the base 20 (Fig. 1 D), the first, second
and third struts 72, 74, 76 resiliently and elastically compress and deform together
with a further increasing degree of stiffness, for example buckling inwardly into
contact with a medial portion of the resilient biasing element 60, providing an even
greater degree of upward biasing force. In alternative embodiments, the resilient
biasing element 60 may comprise one, two, three or more resilient struts of various
configurations arranged in one, two or more spaced arrays, or the resilient biasing
element may comprise a continuous solid panel or molding of polymeric elastomer material.
In further alternative embodiments, the thickness, shape, location, material hardness
or durometer, or other characteristics of the different struts or different sections
of the resilient biasing element 60 can be selectively varied to impart desired support
and motion characteristics.
[0019] Figures 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D show a children's bouncer device 110 according to another
example embodiment of the present invention. The bouncer device 110 generally comprises
a base 120, a child-supporting portion 140, and at least one non-metal resilient biasing
element 160 operatively engaged between the base and the child-supporting portion
to allow a pivotal or bouncing motion Mof the child-supporting portion relative to
the base. In this embodiment, the base 120 comprises a U-shaped structure having first
and second side arms and an interconnecting rear cross-piece, and the child-supporting
portion 140 comprises a U-shaped peripheral support member 142 having a first side
arm, a second side arm, and an interconnecting head end cross-piece. Example embodiments
can also include a foot end cross-piece. Ends of the first and second side arms of
the base 120 are pivotally coupled to respective ends of the first and second side
arms of the peripheral support member 142. The child-supporting portion 140 further
comprises an inner sling or seat portion 144 supported by the peripheral support member
142, and a toy or accessory bar 146 detachably connected to the peripheral support
member and extending over the child seating area. An electronic accessory 150, such
as for example a vibrational unit, auto-bounce motor, audio or audiovisual device,
or other entertainment feature is optionally included. The device 110 is foldable
from the assembled configuration shown in Figure 2A to the folded and compact configuration
shown in Figure 2D, by means of a hinged connection between the base 120 and the child-supporting
portion 140. The detachable toy or accessory bar 146 optionally comprises an inner
channel or groove configured to slide over and onto the back of the base 120, as shown
in Figure 2D.
[0020] A first resilient biasing element 160 is operatively coupled in torsional engagement
between a first leg of the base 120 and a first leg of the peripheral support member
142 of the child-supporting portion 140, on one side of the device 110; and a second
resilient biasing element 160 is operatively coupled in torsional engagement between
a second leg of the base and a second leg of the peripheral support member, on the
opposite side of the device. Figure 2B shows additional details of the resilient biasing
elements 160 according to an example embodiment. The resilient biasing element 160
comprises an annular body having an inner ring 162 configured for cooperative engagement
with a hub 122 of a mounting flange portion of the base 120, a concentric outer ring
164 configured for cooperative engagement with a sleeve 148 on the peripheral support
member 142 of the child-supporting portion 140, and a plurality of ribs or fins 166
extending radially between the inner and outer rings in a circumferentially spaced
array. Abutting contact surfaces of the hub 122 and inner ring 162, and of the sleeve
148 and outer ring 164, respectively, optionally include interengaging surface features
for positional fixation of the components relative to one another, which are further
optionally releasable and repositionable to allow selective variation of the angle
of incline of the child-supporting portion 140 relative to the base 120, and for folding
of the frame of the device 110. The resilient biasing element 160 and the coupled
ends of the arms of the base 120 and the support member 142 are retained in position
by coupling elements, such as for example a threaded mounting flange 180, bushing
182 and correspondingly threaded nut 184.
[0021] In example embodiments, the resilient biasing elements 160 comprise a polymeric elastomer
material, such as for example a thermoplastic polyester elastomer, providing substantial
elastic resilience along a range of motion in compression and/or tension. In particular
embodiments, the resilient biasing elements 160 comprise a DuPont™ Hytrel® thermoplastic
elastomer. The resilient biasing elements 160 provide a resilient and elastically
deformable connection between the child-supporting portion 140 and the base 120, allowing
the child supporting portion to move through a bouncing or otherwise cyclical motion
(indicated by direction arrow M). As the child-supporting portion 140 moves relative
to the base 120, the inner and outer rings 162, 164 of the resilient biasing elements
160 rotate concentrically relative to one another, causing the ribs or fins 166 to
twist and stretch, with the elastic resilience of their constituent material imparting
a rotational return bias in a direction opposite the motion of the child-supporting
portion (i.e., an upward bias in response to downward motion, or a downward bias in
response to upward motion). The resilient biasing elements 160 optionally provide
a progressive stiffness which increases in resistance and upward bias as the child-supporting
portion 140 moves downwardly relative to the base 120. In example embodiments, the
ribs or fins 166 extending between the inner ring 162 and the outer ring 164 of the
resilient biasing elements 160 have a varying thickness and/or stiffness along their
length, for example being thinner and less stiff toward their inner ends at the points
of attachment with the inner ring, and becoming progressively thicker and more stiff
toward their outer ends at the points of attachment with the outer ring.
[0022] Figure 3 shows a children's bouncer device 210 according to another example embodiment
of the present invention. The bouncer device 210 is substantially similar to the above
described embodiments, with differences as noted, and generally comprises a base 220,
a child-supporting portion 240, and at least one non-metal resilient biasing element
260 operatively engaged between the base and the child-supporting portion to allow
a pivotal or bouncing motion of the child-supporting portion relative to the base.
In this embodiment, the resilient biasing element 260 comprises a general rectangular
or square body comprising a polymeric elastomer material, such as for example a thermoplastic
polyester elastomer, and in particular embodiments a DuPont™ Hytrel® thermoplastic
elastomer.
[0023] Figures 4A and 4B show a children's bouncer device 310 according to another example
embodiment of the present invention. The bouncer device 310 is substantially similar
to the above described embodiments, with differences as noted, and generally comprises
a base 320, a child-supporting portion 340, and at least one non-metal resilient biasing
element 360 operatively engaged between the base and the child-supporting portion
to allow a pivotal or bouncing motion of the child-supporting portion relative to
the base. In this embodiment, the base 320 includes an upwardly extending attachment
flange 322, and the child-supporting portion 340 includes inner and outer coupling
hubs 342, 344 configured to receive and rotationally couple with the attachment flange
of the base. Resilient biasing elements 360 are torsionally engaged between an inner
hub or axle 324 extending from the attachment flange 322 of the base 320, and outer
sleeves formed in the coupling hubs 342,344. A cover panel 350 may be provided to
protect against potential contact with moving parts. In example embodiments, the cover
panel 350 may be transparent, and the resilient biasing elements 360 may be brightly
colored or decorative, allowing external visibility of the structure and movement
of the resilient biasing elements. The bouncer device 310 optionally further comprises
a motor-driven or electromagnetic bounce module 370 for imparting a bouncing or other
type of motion to the child-supporting portion 340 relative to the base 320.
[0024] Figures 5A and 5B show a children's bouncer device 410 according to another example
embodiment of the present invention. The bouncer device 410 is substantially similar
to the above described embodiments, with differences as noted, and generally comprises
a base 420, a child-supporting portion 440, and at least one non-metal resilient biasing
element 460 operatively engaged between the base and the child-supporting portion
to allow a pivotal or bouncing motion of the child-supporting portion relative to
the base. In this embodiment, the resilient biasing element 460 is torsionally engaged
between an axle or shaft 424 connected to the base 420 and a sleeve or channel formed
through a pivotally connected coupling portion of the child-supporting portion 440.
A cover panel 470, optionally transparent, may be provided over the resilient biasing
element 460.
[0025] Figures 6A and 6B show a children's bouncer device 510 according to another example
embodiment of the present invention. The bouncer device 510 is substantially similar
to the above described embodiments, with differences as noted, and generally comprises
a base 520, a child-supporting portion 540, and at least one non-metal resilient biasing
element 560 operatively engaged between the base and the child-supporting portion
to allow a pivotal or bouncing motion of the child-supporting portion relative to
the base. In this embodiment, the child-supporting portion 540 comprises an electronic
entertainment module 550. An adjustment actuator or switch 565 allows folding or positional
adjustment of the incline angle of the child-supporting portion 540 relative to the
base 520, and/or allow selective adjustment of the stiffness of the resilient biasing
element 560, and/or the bouncing speed and/or range of motion of the child-supporting
portion relative to the base. A cover panel 570, optionally transparent, may be provided
over the resilient biasing element 560.
[0026] Figures 7A and 7B show a children's bouncer device 610 according to another example
embodiment of the present invention. The bouncer device 610 is substantially similar
to the above described embodiments, with differences as noted, and generally comprises
a base 620, a child-supporting portion 640, and at least one non-metal resilient biasing
element 660 operatively engaged between the base and the child-supporting portion
to allow a pivotal or bouncing motion of the child-supporting portion relative to
the base. In this embodiment, the base 620 comprises first and second panels 622,
624 secured together by a plurality of snap couplings. The child-supporting portion
640 comprises a lower support body 642 and an upper support body 644, configured to
engage a soft-goods sling or support seat panel 646 therebetween, and a plurality
of cushioned seat and armrest inserts 648, 650. The resilient biasing element 660
comprises a lower panel for attachment to the base 620, an upper panel for attachment
to the child-supporting portion 640, and a plurality of ribs or struts extending between
the lower and upper panels in a spaced array. In example embodiments, the resilient
biasing element 660 is configured to allow front-to-back, side-to-side, and/or twisting
movement of the child-supporting portion 640 relative to the base 620.
[0027] Figure 8 shows a children's bouncer device 710 according to another example embodiment
of the present invention. The bouncer device 710 is substantially similar to the above
described embodiments, with differences as noted, and generally comprises a base 720,
a child-supporting portion 740, and at least one non-metal resilient biasing element
760 operatively engaged between the base and the child-supporting portion to allow
a pivotal or bouncing motion of the child-supporting portion relative to the base.
In this embodiment, the resilient biasing element 760 comprises a continuous curved
web of polymeric elastomer material, such as for example a thermoplastic polyester
elastomer, and in particular embodiments a DuPont™ Hytrel® thermoplastic elastomer,
extending between front and side portions of the base 720 and the child-supporting
portion 740.
[0028] Figure 9 shows a children's bouncer device 810 according to another example embodiment
of the present invention. The bouncer device 810 is substantially similar to the above
described embodiments, with differences as noted, and generally comprises a base 820,
a child-supporting portion 840, and at least one non-metal resilient biasing element
860 operatively engaged between the base and the child-supporting portion to allow
a pivotal or bouncing motion of the child-supporting portion relative to the base.
In this embodiment, the resilient biasing element 860 comprises a body formed as a
unitary molding formed of a polymeric elastomer material, having lower web portions
862 that form a portion of the base 820, an upper panel portion 864 that forms a portion
of the child-supporting portion 840, and intermediate elastically resilient flexure
webs 866 extending between the lower web portions and the upper panel portion.
[0029] Figure 10 shows a children's bouncer device 910 according to another example embodiment
of the present invention. The bouncer device 910 is substantially similar to the above
described embodiments, with differences as noted, and generally comprises a base 920,
a child-supporting portion 940, and at least one non-metal resilient biasing element
960 operatively engaged between the base and the child-supporting portion to allow
a pivotal or bouncing motion of the child-supporting portion relative to the base.
In this embodiment, the resilient biasing element 960 comprises a molding formed of
a polymeric elastomer material, having lower web portions 962 that attach to the base
920, an upper flange 964 that attach to the child-supporting portion 940, and intermediate
elastically resilient flexure arms 966 extending between the lower web portions and
the upper flange portion.
[0030] Figure 11 shows a children's bouncer device 1010 according to another example embodiment
of the present invention. The bouncer device 1010 is substantially similar to the
above described embodiments, with differences as noted, and generally comprises a
base 1020, a child-supporting portion 1040, and at least one non-metal resilient biasing
element 1060 operatively engaged between the base and the child-supporting portion
to allow a pivotal or bouncing motion of the child-supporting portion relative to
the base. In this embodiment, the resilient biasing element 1060 comprises a molding
formed of a polymeric elastomer material, having lower attachment portions 1062 that
attach to the base 1020, an upper engagement section 1064 that attach to the child-supporting
portion 1040, and intermediate elastically resilient flexure panels 1066 extending
between the lower web portions and the upper flange portion.
[0031] Figure 12 shows a chair or bouncer device 1110 according to another example embodiment
of the present invention. The chair or bouncer device 1110 is substantially similar
to the above described embodiments, with differences as noted, and generally comprises
a base 1120 having a plurality of legs 1122, a seat portion 1140, and at least one
non-metal resilient biasing element 1160 operatively engaged between the base and
the seat portion to allow a pivotal rocking or bouncing motion of the seat portion
relative to the base. In this embodiment, the resilient biasing element 1160 comprises
an attachment bracket formed of a polymeric elastomer material such as for example
a thermoplastic polyester elastomer, and in particular embodiments a DuPont™ Hytrel®
thermoplastic elastomer. The attachment bracket 1160 optionally extends axially along
a central spine area of the lower seat and seatback portions of the seat 1140, and
allows the sections of the seat to resiliently and elastically flex and move with
respect to one another. The attachment bracket 1160 is optionally rotationally coupled
to a mounting hub on the base 1120, allowing the seat 1140 to rotate or spin relative
to the base. Optionally, the legs 1122 comprise feet 1124 or casters at their lower
ends, to support the chair or bouncer device 1110 in a fixed position or allow rolling
along a support surface. A toy or accessory bar 1170 is optionally provided, extending
over the seating area, and supporting one or more toys, lights, electronic devices,
audiovisual displays, or other accessories.
[0032] Figure 13 shows a children's jumper device 1210 according to an example embodiment
of the present invention. The jumper device 1210 generally comprises a base 1220,
a child-supporting portion 1240, and at least one non-metal resilient biasing element
1260 operatively engaged between the base and the child-supporting portion to allow
a bouncing and/or swinging motion of the child-supporting portion relative to the
base. The base 1220 comprises a frame formed from an assembly of frame elements such
as tubular sections of aluminum, steel, plastic, wood or other metals, polymers, composites
or other materials. In the depicted example, the base frame 1220 comprises first and
second generally downwardly extending U-shaped lower frame legs 1222, 1224, first
and second generally upwardly extending U-shaped upper frame arms 1226, 1228, two
upper frame arm couplings 1230 pivotally connecting respective ends of the upper frame
arms, and four lower frame leg couplings 1232 pivotally connecting ends of the lower
frame legs to medial portions of the upper frame arms. Slip-resistant or anti-marring
feet 1234 are optionally provided along lower surfaces of the lower frame legs 1222,
1224. The child-supporting portion 1240 comprises a seat panel 1242 having an opening
formed therein, and a seat sling 1244 having a pair of leg openings formed therein
affixed to the seat panel and extending across and beneath the opening. Optionally,
one or more toys or accessories are provided on the seat panel 1242.
[0033] The resilient biasing elements 1260 preferably comprise cords or bands of a polymeric
elastomer material such as for example a thermoplastic polyester elastomer, and in
particular embodiments a DuPont™ Hytrel® thermoplastic elastomer. In example embodiments,
the resilient biasing elements 1260 comprise moldings formed by injection molding,
blow molding or other molding processes, or are extruded, braided, woven or otherwise
fabricated. First or upper ends of the resilient biasing cords 1260 are attached to
upper cross-members of the upper frame arms 1226, 1228 adjacent upper corners of the
device 1210, and second or lower ends of the resilient biasing cords are attached
to the sides of the seat panel 1242. In alternate embodiments, the resilient biasing
cords extend through the top of the seat panel. The resilient biasing cords 1260 may
be provided in spaced arrays of two or more cords, for example in the depicted embodiment,
four arrays of three cords each are provided, one array connected at each corner of
the seat panel 1242. In alternative embodiments, fewer or more resilient biasing cords
per array, and/or fewer or more arrays of cords may be provided.
[0034] Figure 14A shows a children's jumper device 1310 according to another example embodiment
of the present invention. The jumper device 1310 generally comprises a base 1320,
a child-supporting portion 1340, and at least one non-metal resilient biasing element
1360 operatively engaged between the base and the child-supporting portion to allow
a bouncing and/or swinging motion of the child-supporting portion relative to the
base. The base 1320 comprises a frame formed from an assembly of frame elements such
as tubular sections of aluminum, steel, plastic, wood or other metals, polymers, composites
or other materials. In the depicted example, the base frame 1320 comprises first and
second generally downwardly extending U-shaped lower frame legs 1322, 1324, first
and second generally upwardly extending U-shaped upper frame arms 1326,1328, and two
cross-frame couplings 1330 pivotally connecting the ends of the upper frame arms and
the lower frame legs. The child-supporting portion 1340 comprises a seat panel 1342
having an opening formed therein, and a seat sling 1344 having a pair of leg openings
formed therein affixed to the seat panel and extending across and beneath the opening.
[0035] The resilient biasing elements 1360 preferably comprise cords or bands of a molded
polymeric elastomer material such as for example a thermoplastic polyester elastomer,
and in particular embodiments a DuPont™ Hytrel® thermoplastic elastomer. First or
upper ends of the resilient biasing cords 1360 are attached to upper cross-members
of the upper frame arms 1326, 1328 adjacent upper corners of the device 1310, and
second or lower ends of the resilient biasing cords are attached to the sides of the
seat panel 1342. The resilient biasing cords 1360 may be provided in spaced arrays
of two or more cords, for example in the depicted embodiment, four arrays of three
cords each are provided, one array connected at each corner of the seat panel 1342.
In alternative embodiments, fewer or more resilient biasing cords per array, and/or
fewer or more arrays of cords may be provided. The resilient biasing cords 1360 may
be detachably coupled to the upper cross-members of the upper frame arms 1326, 1328
by tube clips or brackets 1380 having a hooked coupling portion configured to securely
engage the frame arms when the device 1310 is in use with a child seated therein,
but to be detached by application of moderate hand pressure by an adult caregiver
when the device is not in use and a child is not seated therein.
[0036] A sequence of folding the children's jumper device 1310 is depicted in Figures 14A
- 14D. As shown in Figure 14A - 14B, the tube clips 1380 are detached from one of
the upper frame arms 1326 or 1328. The tube clips may remain attached to the other
upper frame arm. The child-supporting portion 1340 is then free to move away from
the detached upper frame arm, and does not interfere with its folding. The adult caregiver
actuates a frame release actuator 1332 on one or both cross-frame couplings 1330,
which releases the upper frame arms 1326, 1328 to be folded toward one another (Figure
14C), and releases the lower frame legs 1322, 1324 to be folded toward one another
(Figure 14D). In the folded configuration, the upper frame arms 1326, 1328, lower
frame legs 1322, 1324, and child-supporting portion 1340 are generally aligned with
one another in a flat and compact configuration for ease of transport or storage.
[0037] In use, a child is placed into or onto the child supporting portion of a children's
motion device according to example embodiments of the invention, and a bouncing or
other cyclical movement of the child supporting portion is imparted by manual application
of force by an adult caregiver, by movement of the child, by an electronic motor-driven
or electromagnetic auto-bouncer unit, and/or by other means. As the child supporting
portion is moved in a first direction, the one or more non-metal resilient biasing
elements of the device elastically and resiliently extend or contract out of equilibrium,
either in tension or compression between the child supporting portion and the base.
The shape-memory or elastic resilience of the material of the one or more non-metal
resilient biasing elements causes the biasing elements to apply a biasing force to
the child supporting portion, counter to the direction of motion of the child supporting
portion. The counter-biasing force increases as the child supporting portion moves
further out of its equilibrium position, until it balances and overcomes the momentum
of the motion, causing the child supporting portion to reverse direction and move
in an opposite second direction. The range of motion may then cycle back and forth
in a bouncing, swinging or other form, providing entertainment, exercise, and/or soothing
movement to a child supported in the motion device.
[0038] While the invention has been described with reference to example embodiments, it
will be understood by those skilled in the art that a variety of modifications, additions
and deletions are within the scope of the invention, as defined by the following claims.
[0039] For the avoidance of doubt, the present application extends to the subject-matter
described in the following numbered clauses:
- 1. A children's bouncer device comprising:
a base configured to support the device on a support surface;
a child-supporting portion supported above the base and configured to support a child;
and
at least one non-metal resilient biasing element operatively engaged between the base
and the child-supporting portion to allow a bouncing motion of the child-supporting
portion relative to the base, wherein the resilient biasing element comprises a body
formed of a polymeric elastomer material, the body comprising a first side attached
to the base, a second side attached to the child supporting portion, and at least
one interconnecting member extending between the first side and the second side, wherein
the at least one interconnecting member elastically and resiliently deforms and imparts
a counter-biasing force on the child-supporting portion in response to the bouncing
motion.
- 2. The children's bouncer device of Clause 1, wherein the resilient biasing element
comprises a panel of the polymeric elastomer material defining a plurality of openings
and forming a spaced array of support struts.
- 3. The children's bouncer device of Clause 2, wherein the spaced array of support
struts elastically and resiliently deform under compression and provide a progressively
increasing stiffness during at least a portion of the bouncing motion.
- 4. The children's bouncer device of Clause 2 or 3, wherein the spaced array of support
struts comprise struts of progressively increasing height.
- 5. The children's bouncer device of any preceding Clause, wherein the resilient biasing
element comprises an annular body comprising an inner ring, an outer ring, and a plurality
of fins extending between the inner and outer rings in a circumferentially spaced
array.
- 6. The children's bouncer device of Clause 5, wherein the plurality of fins define
a length between the inner and outer rings, and have a varying thickness or stiffness
along their length.
- 7. The children's bouncer device of any preceding Clause, wherein the polymeric elastomer
material of the resilient biasing element comprises a DuPont™ Hytrel® thermoplastic
polyester elastomer material.
- 8. The children's bouncer device of any preceding Clause, wherein the child-supporting
portion is repositionable relative to the base for folding or adjustment of an incline
angle of the child-supporting portion.
- 9. A children's motion device comprising a base, a child-supporting portion, and at
least one non-metal resilient biasing element operatively engaged between the base
and the child-supporting portion to allow motion of the child-supporting portion relative
to the base, wherein the resilient biasing element comprises a thermoplastic polyester
elastomer.
- 10. The children's motion device of Clause 9, wherein the thermoplastic polyester
elastomer material comprises a DuPont™ Hytrel® material.
- 11. The children's motion device of Clause 9 or 10, wherein the resilient biasing
element comprises a thermoplastic molding having a first side attached to the base,
a second side attached to the child supporting portion, and at least one interconnecting
member extending between the first side and the second side, wherein the at least
one interconnecting member elastically and resiliently deforms and imparts a counter-biasing
force on the child-supporting portion in response to the motion of the child-supporting
portion.
- 12. The children's motion device of any of Clauses 9-11, wherein the resilient biasing
element comprises a molded panel of the thermoplastic polyester elastomer material
defining a plurality of openings and forming a spaced array of support struts.
- 13. The children's motion device of Clause 12, wherein the spaced array of support
struts elastically and resiliently deform under compression and provide a progressively
increasing stiffness during at least a portion of the motion of the child-supporting
portion.
- 14. The children's motion device of Clause 12 or 13, wherein the spaced array of support
struts comprise struts of progressively increasing height.
- 15. The children's motion device of any of Clauses 9-14, wherein the resilient biasing
element comprises an annular body comprising an inner ring, an outer ring, and a plurality
of fins extending between the inner and outer rings in a circumferentially spaced
array.
- 16. The children's motion device of Clause 15, wherein the plurality of fins define
a length between the inner and outer rings, and have a varying thickness or stiffness
along their length.
- 17. The children's motion device of any of Clauses 9-16, wherein the child-supporting
portion is suspended from the base by a plurality of resilient biasing elements configured
to elastically and resiliently deform under tension and provide a progressively increasing
counter-biasing force during at least a portion of the motion of the child-supporting
portion.
- 18. A children's jumper device comprising:
a base frame comprising a plurality of frame segments coupled to form a frame assembly,
the frame assembly comprising lower frame legs and upper frame arms;
a child-supporting portion comprising a seat panel having an opening formed therein,
and a seat sling having a pair of leg openings formed therein affixed to the seat
panel and extending across and beneath the opening; and
a plurality of non-metal resilient biasing elements suspending the child-supporting
portion from the upper frame arms of the base frame and allowing a bouncing motion
of the child-supporting portion relative to the base frame, the resilient biasing
elements comprising a thermoplastic polyester elastomer material and being configured
to elastically and resiliently deform under tension and provide a progressively increasing
counter-biasing force during at least a portion of the bouncing motion of the child-supporting
portion.
- 19. The children's jumper device of Clause 18, wherein the thermoplastic polyester
elastomer material comprises a DuPont™ Hytrel® material.
- 20. The children's jumper device of Clause 18 or 19, wherein the resilient biasing
elements comprise a plurality of arrays spaced about the child-supporting portion,
each array comprising multiple resilient biasing cords.
- 21. The children's jumper device of any of Clauses 18-20, wherein the frame assembly
is foldable.
- 22. The children's jumper device of Clause 21, wherein the resilient biasing elements
are detachably connected to the upper frame arms by tube clips.
- 23. A chair comprising a base, a seat portion, and an attachment bracket operatively
engaged between the base and the seat portion to allow a pivotal rocking or bouncing
motion of the seat portion relative to the base, wherein the attachment bracket comprises
a thermoplastic polyester elastomer material.
- 24. The chair of Clause 23, wherein the thermoplastic polyester elastomer material
comprises a DuPont™ Hytrel® material.
1. A children's bouncer device comprising:
a base configured to support the device on a support surface;
a child-supporting portion supported above the base and configured to support a child;
and
at least one non-metal resilient biasing element operatively engaged between the base
and the child-supporting portion to allow a bouncing motion of the child-supporting
portion relative to the base, wherein the resilient biasing element comprises a body
formed of a polymeric elastomer material, the body comprising a first side attached
to the base, a second side attached to the child supporting portion, and at least
one interconnecting member extending between the first side and the second side, wherein
the at least one interconnecting member elastically and resiliently deforms and imparts
a counter-biasing force on the child-supporting portion in response to the bouncing
motion.
2. The children's bouncer device of claim 1, wherein the resilient biasing element comprises
a panel of the polymeric elastomer material defining a plurality of openings and forming
a spaced array of support struts,
optionally, wherein the spaced array of support struts elastically and resiliently
deform under compression and provide a progressively increasing stiffness during at
least a portion of the bouncing motion.
3. The children's bouncer device of claim 2, wherein the spaced array of support struts
comprise struts of progressively increasing height.
4. The children's bouncer device of any preceding claim, wherein the resilient biasing
element comprises an annular body comprising an inner ring, an outer ring, and a plurality
of fins extending between the inner and outer rings in a circumferentially spaced
array,
optionally, wherein the plurality of fins define a length between the inner and outer
rings, and have a varying thickness or stiffness along their length.
5. The children's bouncer device of any preceding claim, wherein the polymeric elastomer
material of the resilient biasing element comprises a DuPont™ Hytrel® thermoplastic
polyester elastomer material.
6. The children's bouncer device of any preceding claim, wherein the child-supporting
portion is repositionable relative to the base for folding or adjustment of an incline
angle of the child-supporting portion.
7. A children's motion device comprising a base, a child-supporting portion, and at least
one non-metal resilient biasing element operatively engaged between the base and the
child-supporting portion to allow motion of the child-supporting portion relative
to the base, wherein the resilient biasing element comprises a thermoplastic polyester
elastomer.
8. The children's motion device of claim 7, wherein the thermoplastic polyester elastomer
material comprises a DuPont™ Hytrel® material.
9. The children's motion device of claim 7 or 8, wherein the resilient biasing element
comprises:
(a) a thermoplastic molding having a first side attached to the base, a second side
attached to the child supporting portion, and at least one interconnecting member
extending between the first side and the second side, wherein the at least one interconnecting
member elastically and resiliently deforms and imparts a counter-biasing force on
the child-supporting portion in response to the motion of the child-supporting portion;
and/or
(b) a molded panel of the thermoplastic polyester elastomer material defining a plurality
of openings and forming a spaced array of support struts,
optionally, wherein the spaced array of support struts elastically and resiliently
deform under compression and provide a progressively increasing stiffness during at
least a portion of the motion of the child-supporting portion; and
optionally, the spaced array of support struts comprise struts of progressively increasing
height; and/or
(c) an annular body comprising an inner ring, an outer ring, and a plurality of fins
extending between the inner and outer rings in a circumferentially spaced array,
optionally, wherein the plurality of fins define a length between the inner and outer
rings, and have a varying thickness or stiffness along their length.
10. The children's motion device of any of claims 7-9, wherein the child-supporting portion
is suspended from the base by a plurality of resilient biasing elements configured
to elastically and resiliently deform under tension and provide a progressively increasing
counter-biasing force during at least a portion of the motion of the child-supporting
portion.
11. A children's jumper device comprising:
a base frame comprising a plurality of frame segments coupled to form a frame assembly,
the frame assembly comprising lower frame legs and upper frame arms;
a child-supporting portion comprising a seat panel having an opening formed therein,
and a seat sling having a pair of leg openings formed therein affixed to the seat
panel and extending across and beneath the opening; and
a plurality of non-metal resilient biasing elements suspending the child-supporting
portion from the upper frame arms of the base frame and allowing a bouncing motion
of the child-supporting portion relative to the base frame, the resilient biasing
elements comprising a thermoplastic polyester elastomer material and being configured
to elastically and resiliently deform under tension and provide a progressively increasing
counter-biasing force during at least a portion of the bouncing motion of the child-supporting
portion.
12. The children's jumper device of claim 11, wherein the resilient biasing elements comprise
a plurality of arrays spaced about the child-supporting portion, each array comprising
multiple resilient biasing cords.
13. The children's jumper device of claim 11 or 12, wherein the frame assembly is foldable;
optionally, wherein the resilient biasing elements are detachably connected to the
upper frame arms by tube clips.
14. A chair comprising a base, a seat portion, and an attachment bracket operatively engaged
between the base and the seat portion to allow a pivotal rocking or bouncing motion
of the seat portion relative to the base, wherein the attachment bracket comprises
a thermoplastic polyester elastomer material.
15. The children's jumper device of any of claims 11-13 or the chair of claim 14, wherein
the thermoplastic polyester elastomer material comprises a DuPont™ Hytrel® material.