US20100072236A1 - Multifunctional child carrier - Google Patents
Multifunctional child carrier Download PDFInfo
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- US20100072236A1 US20100072236A1 US12/234,045 US23404508A US2010072236A1 US 20100072236 A1 US20100072236 A1 US 20100072236A1 US 23404508 A US23404508 A US 23404508A US 2010072236 A1 US2010072236 A1 US 2010072236A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- child
- support
- wearer
- carrier
- carrier body
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47D—FURNITURE SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CHILDREN
- A47D13/00—Other nursery furniture
- A47D13/02—Baby-carriers; Carry-cots
- A47D13/025—Baby-carriers; Carry-cots for carrying children in seated position
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47D—FURNITURE SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CHILDREN
- A47D13/00—Other nursery furniture
- A47D13/02—Baby-carriers; Carry-cots
Abstract
The present invention is directed to a multifunctional child carrier. In one embodiment, the multifunctional child carrier is transitionable between front and side carrying positions on a wearer, and has a carrier body with a bottom section having a support sleeve, a lumbar belt configured to extend through the support sleeve and about the body of the wearer, and a pair of adjustable shoulder straps extensible over the wearer's shoulders. In another embodiment, the multifunctional carrier is transitionable between upright and sling carrying positions on a wearer, and the carrier body has both a front sleeve and at least two opposing side sleeves. In yet another embodiment, a lumbar belt for use with the child carrier includes a contoured lumbar panel configured to support the lumbar region of the wearer's back.
Description
- Not Applicable.
- Not Applicable
- 1. Technical Field
- The present invention relates generally to carriers adapted to be worn by an adult in order to support and carry an infant or other young child. More particularly, in at least one aspect, the present invention is directed to an improved multifunctional child carrier that accommodates the carrying of a child in either a front or side carrying position. The multifunctional carrier may also optionally accommodate carrying of a child in a sling position. In another aspect, the present invention is directed to an improved lumbar belt for use with the multifunctional carrier or other child carrier.
- 2. Related Art
- Shoulder-supported child carriers are commonly used by parents and child caregivers to carry and transport infants and other young children. A common attribute of these carriers is that they offer “hands-free” operation, and thus allow the adult wearer to carry the child while leaving the hands unencumbered to perform other activities. The shoulder-supported child carriers also typically make it easier for an adult wearer to carry the child by distributing the carrying load about the wearer's shoulders and/or back, as opposed to supporting the child's weight primarily in the adult's arms. A number of different shoulder supported child carriers are currently known in the art, and the carriers come in a wide range of designs and styles. One example of currently known child carrier is a frame-type carrier that typically supports the child on the back of the wearer. However, frameless or soft-sided carriers are also becoming increasing popular, and typically support the child on the front or chest of the wearer. Still further, there has also been developed in the prior art convertible carriers that are configured to allow the infant to be supported on either the front or back of the wearer.
- Carriers that allow carrying of a child on the hip of the wearer are also becoming increasingly popular because positioning the child on the hip generally mimics the carrying position that adults frequently use to transport their children without the aid of a carrier. Also, by supporting the child upon one of the hips, the wearer typically has greater freedom to move the opposing arm and hand to accomplish other tasks, and has minimal obstruction of their view. Supporting the child upon one of the hips may be particularly desirable for older and/or heavier children, as the hip provides added stability and support that may make this position more comfortable than front or back carrying positions. As such, many parents and child care providers may transition from using a front carrying child carrier that carries the child or infant in the front position when the child is very young, to using a side carrying child carrier that carries the child on the side or hip of the wearer as the child grows older.
- However, a problem with current child carriers is that they typically are not capable of providing both front and side carrying functionality, and are thus limited in terms of the options they provide for carrying and transporting children. Examples of currently known infant hip carriers are found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,813,580 to Fair; U.S. Pat. No. 5,492,256 to Ive; U.S. Pat. No. 5,224,637 to Columbo; and U.S. Pat. No. 4,901,898 to Columbo. Another currently known hip carrier is sold by Playtex under the trademark Hip Hammock® and is shown in U.S. Pat. No. D425,696. Examples of currently known infant carriers suitable for carrying an infant in a front position are found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,598,771 and 6,763,983, both to Norman. As these carriers generally are not readily transitionable between front and side carrying positions, a parent or child caregiver is required to purchase at least one of each, and even multiple carriers if they wish to have the option to carry the child in both front and side positions.
- Yet another problem with current child carriers is that they typically are not capable of readily transitioning from front and/or side carrying positions to a sling carrying position. Carriers that act as baby slings are well known by parents and other persons involved in child care, and are capable of holding the child in a supine or semi-supine position near the body of the adult sling wearer, which can be comforting to the child and allows easy monitoring and observation of the infant on the part of the adult wearer. Indeed, various different types of baby slings are currently available from manufacturers of infant products, such as for example the Jelly Bean™ Cargo Sling from Munchkin. However, such currently available slings nonetheless do not allow for conversion to more secure and/or more conventional front or side upright carriers, and as such they can be limited in their use.
- Still another problem with currently available child carriers is that they frequently do not provide adequate back support to the adult wearer. In particular, certain child carrier designs can unacceptably strain the wearer's back, which can make wearing of the child carrier uncomfortable. This may be especially true for child carriers that incorporate lumber belts that extend about the wearer's waist and/or torso to help support and/or brace the child carrier on the wearer. While such belts often include padded sections intended to cushion and lessen the strain on the lumbar region of the wearer's back, they nonetheless can become uncomfortable to the wearer, especially over long periods of time. The padded sections of the lumbar belt also typically impart minimal structural support to the lumbar belt.
- Accordingly, there remains a need in the art for multifunctional child carriers that allow for versatility in terms of the positions in which a child may be held in the carrier. There is also a need for multifunctional child carriers that are readily convertible between front and side/hip carrying positions. Also, a need remains in the art for multifunctional carriers that readily convert from upright front and/or side carrying positions to sling carrying positions. There furthermore remains a need for a lumbar belt for use with child carriers that provides adequate support to a wearer's back.
- The present invention specifically addresses and alleviates the above-identified deficiencies in the art. In this regard, the present invention is directed to a multifunctional child carrier that provides for improved versatility in the carrying of a child in a number of different positions that are generally convenient and comfortable for both the child and the wearer. In one embodiment of the invention, the child carrier is transitionable between front and side carrying positions on a wearer. In this embodiment, the child carrier has a carrier body configured to support a child therein that has a bottom section configured to pass between the legs of the child held in the carrier body to support the child thereon. The bottom section of the carrier body also has a support sleeve, and the child carrier further includes a lumbar belt configured to extend through the support sleeve and about the body of the wearer. The child carrier also has a pair of adjustable shoulder straps that are extensible over the wearer's shoulders, with each shoulder strap having opposing first and second ends that are configured to attach to the carrier body to define a loop therebetween. The carrier body, adjustable shoulder straps and lumbar belt are configured such that the carrier body is selectively positionable (i) at the front of the wearer's body to support the carrier body in the front carrying position, or (ii) toward the side of the wearer's body to support the carrier body in the side carrying position.
- In another embodiment of the invention, the multifunctional child carrier is transitionable between upright and sling carrying positions on a wearer. In this embodiment, the carrier has a carrier body configured to support a child therein, with the carrier body having a front sleeve and at least two opposing side sleeves. The carrier body also has a pair of adjustable straps configured to attach to the carrier body and that are extensible over the wearer's shoulders, and a lumbar belt configured to selectively extend through the front and side sleeve segments and about the body of the wearer. The lumbar belt is extended through the front sleeve to support the carrier body in the upright carrying position, and is extended through one of the side sleeves to support the carrier body in the sling carrying position.
- In yet another embodiment of the invention, an improved lumbar belt is provided that is suitable for use with the multifunctional child carrier described herein or other child carrier. A version of child carrier having the improved lumbar belt has a carrier body configured to support a child therein, and the lumbar support belt configured to attach to the carrier body and support the carrier body on the wearer. The lumbar support belt includes a contoured lumbar panel configured to support the lumbar region of the back, where the contoured lumbar panel has a curvature that is complimentary to a curvature of the lumbar region of the wearer's back. The lumbar support belt also has at least one lumbar belt strap configured to attach to the lumbar panel and extend about the wearer. The child carrier having the improved lumbar belt may also optionally have at least one shoulder strap configured to attach to the carrier body that is extensible over the wearer's shoulders.
- The present invention is best understood by reference to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
- These as well as other features of the present invention will become more apparent upon reference to the drawings wherein:
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FIG. 1A is a perspective side view of an embodiment of a multifunctional child carrier according to the invention, depicting the carrier in a front carrying position with the child facing towards the wearer of the child carrier; -
FIG. 1B is a perspective front view of the embodiment of the multifunctional child carrier ofFIG. 1A , depicting the carrier in the front carrying position with the child facing away from the wearer; -
FIG. 1C is a perspective side view of the embodiment of the multifunctional child carrier ofFIGS. 1A-1B , depicting the carrier in a side carrying position with the child facing towards the wearer; -
FIG. 2 is a perspective front view of another embodiment of a multifunctional child carrier according to the invention, depicting the carrier in a sling carrying position; -
FIG. 3 is a side plan view of an embodiment of a multifunctional child carrier according to the invention; -
FIG. 4 is a sectional side view of the embodiment of the multifunctional child carrier ofFIG. 3 ; -
FIG. 5 is a partial side plan view of the embodiment of the multifunctional child carrier ofFIGS. 3-4 , and including opposing side sleeves; -
FIG. 6 is a front plan view of the embodiment of the multifunctional child carrier ofFIGS. 3-5 ; -
FIGS. 7A-7B are sectional front views of embodiments of a carrier body according to the invention, depicting slideable support inserts. -
FIG. 8A is a sectional front view of an embodiment of a lumbar belt according to the invention; and -
FIG. 8B is a sectional side view of the embodiment of the lumbar belt ofFIG. 8A . - Common reference numerals are used throughout the drawings and detailed description to indicate like elements.
- The detailed description set forth below is intended as a description of the presently preferred embodiment of the invention, and is not intended to represent the only form in which the present invention may be constructed or utilized. The description sets forth the functions and sequences of steps for constructing and operating the invention. It is to be understood, however, that the same or equivalent functions and sequences may be accomplished by different embodiments and that they are also intended to be encompassed within the scope of the invention.
- In one aspect, the present invention is directed to a
multifunctional child carrier 10 that is readily transitionable between different carrying positions on awearer 12 to provide improved versatility in child carrying and transport. For example, as shown in the embodiments depicted inFIGS. 1A-1B , thechild carrier 10 can be selectively positionable at thefront 11 of the wearer'sbody 13 to support the child 14 in a front carrying position. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 1C , thechild carrier 10 is selectively positionable at theside 15 of the wearer'sbody 13, such as on or above the wearer'ship 16, to support the child 14 in a side carrying position. Themultifunctional child carrier 10 additionally provides for versatility in terms of placement of the child 14 in thecarrier 10. For example, the child 14 may be placed in the carrier facing inwardly towards theadult wearer 12, as shown for example inFIG. 1A , or may be placed in thecarrier 10 facing outwardly away from theadult wearer 12, as shown for example inFIG. 1B . Themultifunctional child carrier 10 thus allows for thewearer 12 to select from among various child carrying positions, thereby improving the convenience of thechild carrier 10 as well as tailoring to the child transport needs of thewearer 12. - In still another version, an embodiment of which is shown in
FIG. 2 , themultifunctional child carrier 10 is capable of conversion to a more horizontal sling conformation for carrying of the child 14 in a supine or semi-supine position at thefront 11 of thewearer 12. In this embodiment, thechild carrier 10 is transitionable between upright positions, such as the upright front and upright side positions depicted inFIGS. 1A-1B and 1C above, and a sling carrying position as depicted inFIG. 2 . Themultifunctional child carrier 10 thus provides improved versatility in terms of child carrying positions and placement that increases options for child transport. - Referring now to
FIGS. 3-6 , it can be seen that thechild carrier 10 generally comprises acarrier body 18 configured to support a child 14 therein, and asupport harness 20 including a pair ofadjustable shoulder straps lumbar belt 24, configured to support the carrier body on thewearer 12. Thecarrier body 18,lumbar belt 24 andadjustable shoulder straps carrier body 18 is selectively positionable (i) at thefront 11 of the wearer'sbody 13 to support thecarrier body 18 in the front carrying position, or (ii) towards theside 15 of the wearer'sbody 13, such as on or above the wearer'ship 16, to support thecarrier body 18 in the side carrying position. Suitable embodiments ofcarrier body 18 and support harness 22 are described in more detail below. Furthermore, it should be understood that the term “child” as referred to herein is intended to be inclusive of all children that may be suitably carried by the carrier, and thus includes very young infants as well as older babies and children such as toddlers. Also, while it is envisioned that alikely wearer 12 of thechild carrier 10 would be the child's parent, thewearer 12 may also be another adult or teenager of a suitable age involved in the care of the child 14, such as a day care provider, sibling, grandparent and the like. - In the embodiment of the
child carrier 10 as shown inFIGS. 3-6 , thecarrier body 18 comprises abottom section 26 that is sized, shaped and configured to pass between the legs of a child 14 held in thecarrier body 18 to hold and support the child 14 thereon. The carrier body further comprises aposterior section 28 connected to thebottom section 26, which provides front and/or back support for the body of the child 14. The posterior andbottom sections wearer 12, as inFIGS. 1A and 1C , or when the child 14 is placed facing outwardly away from thewearer 12, as inFIG. 1B , to provide versatility in child transport and carrying. - To support the
carrier body 18 on thewearer 12, thebottom section 26 of thecarrier body 18 comprises asupport sleeve 35 through which thelumbar belt 24 can be extended. Thesleeve 35 comprises achannel 38 formed laterally therein that is sized, shaped and configured to pass at least a portion of thelumber belt 24 therethrough. Thelumbar belt 24 thus lifts both thesleeve 35 and the child 14 supported on thebottom section 26 in which thesleeve 35 is formed, thereby supporting thecarrier 10 on the wearer's body. Locating thesupport sleeve 35 within thebottom section 26 is advantageous because positioning thesleeve 35 relatively low on thecarrier body 18 can facilitate transitioning between front and side carrying positions. As such, thesupport sleeve 35 is preferably located towards or even at the very bottom or lowermost point of thecarrier body 18. By way of explanation, it can be seen by referring toFIG. 1C that in the side carrying position, it is desirable to maintain the child's center of gravity up relatively high, with the child's weight being preferably distributed on or above thehip 16 of thewearer 12. Holding the child 14 too low in the side carrying position can potentially interfere with the wearer's movement. Instead, by properly locating the child 14 on or about thehip 16 of thewearer 12 more freedom of movement is allowed and the transition from the front to the side carrying position is rendered more practicable. - Accordingly, in one version, the
child carrier 10 comprises asupport sleeve 35 having abottom edge 40 a that is located at about the bottom or lowermost point of thecarrier body 18, with the lowermost point of thecarrier body 18 being defined as that point that is lowest to the ground when thecarrier 10 is used to transport a child 14 therein. Thelumbar belt 24 extended through thesleeve 35 thus lifts and supports the child 14 from a point close to, and even at, the lowest part of the child's pelvis, thereby lifting the child's center of gravity up and even above thehip 16 of thewearer 12. For example, in the version as shown, thebottom edge 40 a of thesleeve 35 is located at a vertex formed between the bottom andposterior sections sleeve 35 is located at a frontperipheral edge 42 of thebottom section 26. Thesupport sleeve 35 thus supports thecarrier body 18 on thewearer 12 in a position that allows for ready transitioning between front and side carrying positions, and improves the comfort and convenience of the side carrying position. - The arrangement and configuration of the
carrier body 18 can also be selected according to the desired support to be imparted to the child 14. In one version, the posterior andbottom sections same panel 30 of material, or material layers, that have been shaped, for example by stitching and sewing, to form the desired shape of thecarrier body 18. For example, thebottom section 26 can comprise a portion of thepanel 30 that is located at the bottom side of thecarrier body 18, and that forms aseat panel section 32, and theposterior section 28 can comprise a portion of thepanel 30 that is located at the back side of thecarrier body 18, and that forms alongitudinal panel section 34 that is at an approximately 90 degree angle to theseat panel section 32. Thecarrier body 18 can also optionally comprise a linkingpanel section 36 that gradually slopes between thebottom section 26 and theposterior section 28. Loading a child 14 into thecarrier 10 causes one or more of thepanel sections seat panel section 32 can curve and deform from the otherwise relatively flat panel section shape as shown inFIG. 3 to form a seat for the child, such that thebottom edge 40 a of thesleeve 35 is at or near the bottom of thecarrier body 18, and thetop edge 40 b of thesleeve 35 is at least slightly elevated above the bottom of thecarrier body 18. Thepanel 30 forming the bottom andposterior sections panel 30 can also comprise multiple material layers, such as interior and exterior layers of material, layers of padding material, and the like. Thecarrier body 18 is preferably fabricated from a soft, pliable fabric material, such as one or more of a synthetic or natural material, and may also comprise a mesh material to provide improved breathability and air circulation. - The
multifunctional child carrier 10 further comprisesadjustable shoulder straps shoulders strap carrier body 18 to define a loop therebetween, as shown for example inFIGS. 3-6 . For example, in the version shown, the first ends 46a are configured to attach to thetop edge 40 b of thesupport sleeve 35, and the second ends 46b are configured to attach to opposing side edges 43 a, 43 b of thesupport sleeve 35. The portion of eachstrap carrier body 18, over the wearer'sshoulders carrier body 18. In the version shown, the first ends 46 a of theadjustable shoulder straps top edge 40 b of thesupport sleeve 35 at an angle forming a V-shapednotch 48 above thesupport sleeve 35. This V-shapednotch 48 is desirable because it allows for thestraps carrier 10 while also reducing obstructions about the head and/or neck of the child 14 when positioned facing inwardly in thecarrier 10. - The shoulder straps 22 a, 22 b can comprise various strap configurations that may be selected to provide comfortable and secure transport of the child 14 and
carrier 10. In the version as shown, the shoulder straps 22 a, 22 b comprise strap sections including as elongatepadded shoulder sections back strap sections body attachment sections shoulder sections shoulders sections straps shoulder strap strap sections carrier body 18 where they are attached at the second ends 46 b to the opposing side edges 43 a, 43 b of thesupport sleeve 35. Finally, the shoulder straps 22 a, 22 b can comprise carrierbody attachment sections straps top edge 40 b of thesleeve 35. Theattachment sections sleeve 35 in V-shape, thereby effectively providing a compartment for supporting and carrying the child between the V-shapedattachment sections bottom sections carrier body 18. - The shoulder straps 22 a, 22 b can further comprise various securing members, cinching members and other strap securing and length adjustment devices. In the version shown in
FIGS. 3 and 6 , a securingmember 50 is provided to secure the shoulder straps 22 a, 22 b together at the back of thewearer 12, such as by securing together theback strap sections member 50 can thus assist in maintaining the shoulder straps 22 a, 22 b properly positioned on thewearer 12, and reduce the likelihood of thestraps shoulders member 50 comprisescomplimentary mating connectors second straps back strap sections second segments first segments 31 a attaching to the paddedshoulder sections second segments 31 b connecting to thecarrier body 18, the first andsecond segments segments segments - In one embodiment of the
lumbar belt 24, as shown inFIG. 3 , thebelt 24 comprises a reinforcedlumbar region 54 to support the wearer's lower back, anelongate strap region 56 that is slideably extendable through thesleeve 35, and at least oneadjustable mating connector 58 configured to releasably engage first and second opposing ends 60 a, 60 b of thelumbar belt 24. The reinforcedlumbar region 54 desirably comprises a reinforcing material therein that maintains a shape of the lumbar region to increase support to thewearer 12. Thelumbar region 54 is also preferably wider than other portions of thebelt 24, and can comprise a soft and preferably breathable cover material to increase the comfort of thewearer 12. Theelongate strap region 56 is sized, shape and configured such that it is readily extendable and slideable through thesupport sleeve 35 to allow support of thecarrier body 18 thereon, as well as to allow ready transitioning between the front and side carrying positions. In the version as shown, theadjustable mating connector 58 comprises afirst connector piece 58 a attached adjacent an end of the reinforcedlumbar region 54, and asecond connector piece 58 b attached to an end of theelongate strap region 56, to connect the regions of thebelt 24 to one another. - The
carrier body 18 as shown further comprisessupport appendages sides carrier body 18. For example, as shown inFIGS. 3 and 5 , thecarrier body 18 comprises a pair oflower support appendages posterior section 28 of thecarrier body 18. Thelower support appendages adjustable shoulder straps strap attachment sections lower support appendages carrier body 18, acting similarly to sidewalls to contain the child 14 within thecarrier 10. Thelower support appendages adjustable shoulder straps carrier body 18 cooperate to define twoopenings carrier body 18 that are sized, shaped and configured to pass the child's legs therethrough. In particular, for a child 14 placed in a seated position atop thebottom section 26 of thecarrier body 18, thelower support appendages attachment sections bottom section 26 via thesleeve edge 40 b. The legs and body of the infant 14 are thus securely held in thecarrier 10. - In one version, the
carrier body 18 is absent any front panel section, and instead the V-shapedattachment sections carrier body 18. In this version, thelower support appendages adjustable shoulder straps prescribed locations top edge 40 b of thesupport sleeve 35. Theadjustable shoulder straps attachment lower support appendages bottom section 26, to their point of attachment to thetop edge 40 b of thesupport sleeve 35. Theattachment sections adjustable shoulder straps carrier 10. In one version, the prescribed locations ofattachments lower appendages attachment sections top edge 40 b of thesupport sleeve 35 by at least about two inches, and may even be spaced apart by a greater amount. - In the version as shown in
FIGS. 3-6 , thelower support appendages adjustable shoulder straps adjustable mating connectors 70 a, 70 b. For example, eachadjustable shoulder strap first connector piece 72 a attached thereto, and thedistal end lower support appendage second connector piece 72 b attached thereto, with at least one of theconnector pieces straps lower support appendages lower support appendages shoulder straps compartment 76 formed between thelower support appendages carrier body 18. For example, thelower support appendages first attachment piece 78 a on an interior side thereof. The shoulder straps 22 a, 22 b can also comprise outwardly extendingflaps second attachment pieces 78 b thereon that are configured to attach to thefirst attachment pieces 78 a in manner that adjusts a width of the side support piece formed by thelower support appendage attachment pieces attachment pieces attachment pieces carrier 10. For example, theattachment pieces flap peripheral end distal end lower support appendage flap peripheral end lower support appendage compartment 76 of thecarrier body 18. - The
carrier body 18 further comprisesupper support appendages sides upper support appendages carrier body 18. Theupper support appendages elongate straps attachment sections adjustable shoulder straps elongate straps mating connectors adjustable shoulder straps prescribed locations mating connectors elongate straps carrier body 18 with respect to the shoulder straps 22 a, 22 b and/orwearer 12. For example, theelongate straps carrier body 18 more upright and close to the wearer'sbody 13, and can be loosened to release thecarrier body 18 into more of a reclining position angled outwardly from the wearer'sbody 13. Theupper support appendages carrier body 18 such that, the arms of a smaller child 14 pass through the space formed between the upper andlower support appendages carrier body 18, as shown for example inFIGS. 1A-1B . Theupper support appendages upper support appendages 84 a, 84, as shown for example inFIG. 1C . - As described above, the
carrier body 18 comprises aposterior section 28 connected to thebottom section 26 that is configured to support the body of the child 14, including the child's torso and head. In one version, as shown for example inFIGS. 1A-1B , theposterior section 28 has a foldable portion to allow for greater comfort and visibility on the part of the child 14 when placed in an outwardly facing position. For example, thecarrier body 18 can comprise abody support region 94 configured to support the body of the child 14, ahead support region 96 configured to support the head of the child 14, as well as afoldable transition region 92 between the head andbody support regions transition region 92 is sized and configured to allow thehead support region 96 to be selectively moved between an unfolded position, for example for carrying of the child 14 facing inwardly towards thewearer 12 as shown inFIG. 1A , to a folded position, for example for carrying of the child 14 facing outwardly away from thewearer 12 as shown inFIG. 1B . In the folded position thehead support region 96 is folded down into an overlapping relation to thebody support region 94, as shown inFIG. 1B . In one version, the foldability of thetransition region 92 is imparted by the pliability of the material used to form thecarrier body 18. However, the foldability of thetransition region 92 may also be imparted by pre-forming a folding crease in thetransition region 92, or by other means. As shown inFIG. 1A , the unfolded position provides support to a child's head (or even the torso for larger children) when the child 14 is placed facing thewearer 12, and the folded position reduces obstruction of the child's view and provides a more comfortable position for a child 14 placed facing away from thewearer 12. Theposterior section 28 of thecarrier body 18 can also optionally be secured in the unfolded position by providing connecting snaps or other attachment mechanism capable of securing thehead support region 96 to thebody support region 94. In one version, thecarrier body 18 further comprises a detachable pillow section (not shown) that can be used in one or more of the folded and unfolded positions for improved comfort, which pillow can be detached and removed from thecarrier body 18 if desired. - Referring now to
FIG. 2 , yet another version of thechild carrier 10 is shown that allows for conversion of thecarrier 10 to a sling carrying position. In this embodiment, thechild carrier 10 is configured to convert between upright carrying positions, such as the upright front and side positions described above, to a more horizontal sling carrying position where the child 14 is carried in a supine or semi-supine position. The sling position may be especially suitable for the carrying of infants, although other small children could also be carried in the sling under suitable circumstances. Thecarrier body 18 according to this embodiment thus provides for multiple modes of carrying children and infants, including carrying the child 14 upright facing inwardly or outwardly, carrying the child 14 upright on the side or hip, and carrying the child 14 at the front of the wearer'sbody 13 in the sling position. The sling embodiment allows for versatility in carrying the child 14, improving both the wearer and child's comfort by virtue of the different carrying position options. - In one version, the
child carrier 10 is configured to provide the sling carrying functionality by including both afront support sleeve 100, as well as at least two opposingside sleeves lumbar belt 24 therethrough, embodiments of which are shown inFIG. 2 andFIG. 5 . For example, thefront sleeve 100 may correspond to thesupport sleeve 35 described above that forms a part of thebottom section 26 of thecarrier body 18, and comprises the laterally-extendingchannel 38 therethrough. Theside sleeves sides carrier body 18, with each sleeve also having achannel 39 passing therethrough. However, thechannels 39 in the opposingside sleeves carrier body 18 to provide for the more horizontal sling position. In one version, as shown inFIG. 5 , the opposingside sleeves lower support appendages lumbar belt 24 is configured to selectively extend through the front andside sleeves body 13 of thewearer 12 to allow for selectively transitioning between the upright and sling carrying positions. Thus, thelumbar belt 24 is extended through thefront sleeve 100 to support thecarrier body 18 in upright carrying positions, as shown for example inFIGS. 1A-1C , and is extended through either of theside sleeves carrier body 18 in the sling carrying position, as shown for example inFIG. 2 . Theside sleeve lumbar belt 24 is extended in the sling position can be selected according to the desired position of the child 14 with respect to thewearer 12. - In yet another version, the sling carrying position is further supported by providing a
support insert 102 that imparts further rigidity to theposterior section 28 of thecarrier body 18 in the sling position to provide support for the child being carried therein. An embodiment of acarrier body 18 having thesupport insert 102 is shown inFIGS. 7A and 7B . In particular, thesupport insert 102 may be configured to be inserted within an interior channel 104 that extends along a longitudinal axis of thecarrier body 18. Thesupport insert 102 may be slideably positionable within the interior channel 104 such that that insert is positioned towards an upper end 106 of thecarrier body 18 to support the head and/or body of the child 14 in the sling carrying position, and slideably positionable away from the upper end 106 of thecarrier body 18 to support the child 14 in the upright carrying position. In one version, thesupport insert 102 comprises anelongate bar 105 slideably positionable within the interior channel 104. Theelongate bar 105 has one or moregrasping holes 108 formed therein that are configured to be grasped by thewearer 12 and/or another person to slide theelongate bar 105 within the interior channel 104 to the desired position. As can be seen inFIG. 7B , thecarrier 10 positioned in the sling position may have theelongate bar 105 slid towards the upper end 106 of thecarrier body 18 such that theelongate bar 105 provides support and rigidity to the upper end 106 of thecarrier 10. As seen inFIG. 7A , theelongate bar 105 can be slid downwardly when thecarrier 10 is in the upright position as the extra rigidity is not required. Theelongate bar 105 may also be slid downwardly to allow thehead support region 96 of thecarrier body 18 to be folded over thebody support region 94 when the child 14 is positioned upright and facing away from thewearer 12 in thecarrier 10. Thecarrier 10 configured to provide the sling carrying position may further comprise theadjustable shoulder straps lumbar belt 24 that are the same as, or modified from, those described above in relation to thecarrier 10 used in the upright front and side positions. In the version as shown, the shoulder straps 22 a, 22 b can be crossed in front of thewearer 12 by connecting the mating connectors from each shoulder strap to connectors to opposing upper support appendages that are the reverse of those connected to in the upright position. Crossing thestraps 22, 22 b in front of thewearer 12 can help to pull thesling body 18 about the infant 14 and provide more support to thecarrier body 18. - Referring now to
FIGS. 8A and 8B , an improvedlumbar support belt 24 is provided that is suitable for use with the particular embodiments of thechild carrier 10 as described herein. The improvedlumbar support belt 24 additionally provides enhanced features that render it suitable for use withcarriers 10 other than those specifically described, and as such the use of thelumbar belt 24 is not intended to be limited to only those particular child carrier embodiments described herein. In general, the improvedlumbar belt 24 may be used with anysuitable carrier body 18 configured to support a child 14 therein, and may also optionally be used in combination with at least oneshoulder strap carrier body 18 and that is extensible over the wearer'sshoulders lumbar support belt 24 is configured to attach to thecarrier body 18, such as via extension through a support sleeve or other attachment mechanism, to support thecarrier body 18 on thewearer 12. - In one embodiment, as shown in
FIGS. 8A and 8B , the improvedlumbar support belt 24 comprises an innovative contouredlumbar panel 110 that is configured to support the lumbar region of the wearer's back. The contouredlumbar panel 110 comprises abase panel 114 that is formed of a material suitable to at least partially conform to the shape of the wearer. For example, thebase panel 114 may be formed of one or more of a molded resilient material, such as a molded plastic material, and/or a formed rigid foam, such as a polyethylene (PE) foam. In one version, thebase panel 114 is formed of a material with sufficient flex and/or resilience to allow thepanel 110 to flex and conform to the shape of the wearer. The contouredlumbar panel 110 also has a curvature that is generally complimentary to a curvature of the lumbar region of the wearer's back to enhance the comfort of thewearer 12. For example, as shown inFIG. 8B , the contouredpanel 110 curves inwardly from atop edge 112 a of thepanel 110 to abottom edge 112 b of thepanel 110 with a degree of curvature that is complimentary to, and even matches, the curvature of the lumbar region of thewearer 12. By “complimentary” it is meant that the curvature has a profile similar to that of the average wearer's lumbar region, and does not exceed curvature limits that would make thepanel 110 excessively uncomfortable or otherwise unsuitable for use by such anaverage wearer 12. The complimentary curvature of the contouredpanel 100 thus provides for improved comfort and support for thewearer 12 of thechild carrier 10. - The shape of the
base panel 114 may be further selected to provide a curvature and/or flex of thesupport panel 110 that imparts improved comfort and wearability. In one version, thebase panel 114 comprises varying thicknesses along the curvature of thelumbar panel 110, with the thickness being selected to provide the desired degree of flex in the select regions of thepanel 110. For example, as shown inFIG. 8B , thebase panel 114 can comprise a greater thickness at amiddle portion 116 thereof, and a smaller thickness at top andbottom portions base panel 114, providing more flex at the top andbottom portions panel 110. The thickness of thebase panel 114 may decrease in a substantially continuous fashion from themiddle portion 116 to the top andbottom portions 118, 118 b to provide a substantially continuous change in the degree of flexibility across the contouredpanel 110. - The
lumbar support panel 110 can further comprise one ormore layers 120 of material covering thebase panel 114 to improve the comfort of thepanel 110. For example, in the version as shown inFIG. 8B , thelumbar support panel 110 can comprise aninner foam layer 120 a over thefront side 121 a of thebase panel 114 to provide cushioning and comfort. Thesupport panel 110 can further comprise abreathable mesh layer 120 b on the front side of thepanel 110 over thefoam layer 120 a, as well as anotherbreathable mesh layer 120 c over theback side 121 b of thebase panel 114. The breathable mesh layers 120 a, 120 c help to circulate air to thewearer 12 to keep thewearer 12 cool and comfortable while wearing thelumbar support belt 24. - The contoured
support panel 110 can further be shaped and configured to comfortably fit thewearer 12 of thechild carrier 10. For example, in one version thelumber panel 110 comprises top andbottom edges top edge 112 a can define a generally arcuate shape, and thebottom edge 112 b can define an inwardly curved indentation that is configured to provide support and comfort, as shown inFIG. 8A . In another example, thebase panel 114 can be formed and/or molded into a panel shape that comprises anexterior panel frame 124, a web of thematerial 126 within theframe 124, andsupport arches 128 superimposed over theweb 126, as also shown inFIG. 8A . In the version as shown, thepanel frame 124 comprises atop edge 112 a defining a generally arcuate shape, sloping side edges 130 a, 130 b, and abottom edge 112 b defining the inwardlycurved indentation 122. Thepanel 110 thus provides a comfortably curved shape suitable for positioning and wearing on the wearer's back. Theweb 126 within thepanel frame 124 comprisesfirst web lines 126 a radiating upwardly and outwardly from the indentation in thepanel frame 124, and further comprisessecond web 126 b lines traversing and criss-crossing thefirst lines 126 a. Theweb 126 provides a flexible support structure that allows for flex in directions needed for comfortable wearing of thelumbar support panel 110. Finally, thesupport arches 128 superimposed over theweb 126 are capable of bracing and supporting thesupport panel 110. For example, thesupport arches 128 can comprise a trio of arched support beams 128 a, 128 b, 182 b, with first andsecond beams edges support panel 110, respectively, and attaching to thetop edge 112 a of thesupport panel 110. Athird support beam 128c connects to opposing side edges 130 a, 130 b of thesupport panel 110 and curves inwardly in-between the opposing side edges 130 a, 130 b. - Thus, the improved
lumbar belt 24 can be understood to impart enhanced comfort and support to thewearer 12 in the carrying of a child 14 in achild carrier 10. The contouredsupport panel 110 braces and supports the wearer's back, while also providing an amount of flex that allows thewearer 12 to comfortably move and travel as well as bend or sit with thecarrier 10, without excessive discomfort to thewearer 12. - Embodiments of the invention thus improve the versatility and comfort of
child carriers 10 to enhance the carrying and transport of children 14. Themultifunctional child carriers 10 allow for greater ease of selection among different child carrying positions, and well as ready transitioning between the different positions. Thechild carriers 10 may also provide for ready transition between front and side carrying positions, as well as upright and sling carrying positions. Theimproved lumber belt 24 further enhances comfort in the wearing of multifunctional andother child carriers 10. - Additional modifications and improvements of the present invention may also be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Thus, the particular combination of components and steps described and illustrated herein is intended to represent only certain embodiments of the present invention, and is not intended to serve as limitations of alternative devices and methods within the spirit and scope of the invention. Along these lines, it should be understood that the
carrier body 18 can comprise other configurations ofshoulder straps lumbar belts 24 other than those specifically shown, and similarly the improvedlumbar belt 24 described herein may be used with other infant and child carriers other than those specifically described. The child carrier may also comprise pockets or other attachments for the transport of bottles, toys, keys, and other child care or everyday items. Thechild carrier body 18,shoulder straps lumbar belt 24 also may take any of a variety of forms that are known or later developed in the art, and further contemplates that existing or newly formed configuration, such as newly formed carrier body, shoulder strap and/or lumbar belt configurations, should fall within the scope of the present invention. Also, it should be understood that thecarrier body 18,shoulder straps lumber belt 24 can comprise various different materials and material layers that are other than those specifically described, such as different combinations of padding and mesh materials.
Claims (20)
1. A child carrier transitionable between front and side carrying positions on a wearer, the carrier comprising:
(a) a carrier body configured to support a child therein, the carrier body comprising a bottom section configured to pass between the legs of the child held in the carrier body to support the child thereon, the bottom section comprising a support sleeve;
(b) a pair of adjustable shoulder straps extensible over the wearer's shoulders, each shoulder strap comprising opposing first and second ends attached to the carrier body to define a loop therebetween, and
(c) a lumbar belt configured to extend through the support sleeve and about the body of the wearer;
wherein the carrier body, adjustable shoulder straps and lumbar belt are configured such that the carrier body is selectively positionable (i) at the front of the wearer's body to support the carrier body in the front carrying position, or (ii) toward the side of the wearer's body to support the carrier body in the side carrying position.
2. The child carrier according to claim 1 wherein the sleeve is positioned such that the carrier body is supported on the wearer's hip in the side carrying position.
3. The child carrier according to claim 1 wherein a bottom edge of the support sleeve is located at the bottom of the carrier body.
4. The child carrier according to claim 1 wherein the first ends of the adjustable shoulder straps are attached to a top edge of the support sleeve at an angle forming a V-shaped notch above the support sleeve.
5. The child carrier according to claim 4 wherein the carrier body comprises a pair of lower support appendages extending outwardly from opposing sides thereof, the lower support appendages being attached to the adjustable shoulder straps at a prescribed location that is spaced a preselected distance above the top edge of the support sleeve.
6. The child carrier according to claim 5 wherein the prescribed location of attachment to the adjustable shoulder strap is spaced above the top edge of the support sleeve by at least about two inches.
7. The child carrier according to claim 5 wherein the lower support appendages, adjustable shoulder straps, and carrier body cooperate to define two openings that are sized, shaped and configured to pass the child's legs therethrough.
8. The child carrier according to claim 1 wherein the carrier body comprises a posterior section connected to the bottom section, the posterior section comprising:
a torso support region configured to support the torso of the child;
a head support region configured to support the head of the child; and
a transition region between the head and torso support regions, the transition region being sized and configured to allow the head support region to be selectively moved between (i) an unfolded position for carrying of the child facing inwardly towards the wearer, and (ii) a folded position for carrying of the child facing outwardly away from the wearer, wherein in the folded position the head support region is folded down into an overlapping relation to the torso support region.
9. The child carrier according to claim 1 wherein the carrier body further comprises at least one sleeve disposed on a side of the carrier body that is configured to pass the lumbar belt therethrough.
10. The child carrier according to claim 1 wherein the lumbar belt comprises;
(i) a contoured lumbar panel configured to support the lumbar region of the back, the contoured lumbar panel having a curvature that is complimentary to a curvature of the lumbar region of the wearer's back; and
(ii) at least one lumbar belt strap attached to the lumbar panel and extensible about the wearer.
11. A child carrier transitionable between upright and sling carrying positions on a wearer, the carrier comprising:
(a) a carrier body configured to support a child therein, the carrier body comprising a front sleeve and at least two opposing side sleeves; and
(b) a pair of adjustable straps attached to the carrier body and extensible over the wearer's shoulders; and
(c) a lumbar belt configured to selectively extend through the front and side sleeve segments and about the body of the wearer;
wherein the lumbar belt is extended through the front sleeve to support the carrier body in the upright carrying position, and the lumbar belt is extended through one of the side sleeves to support the carrier body in the sling carrying position.
12. The child carrier according to claim 11 wherein the carrier body comprises a bottom section configured to pass between the legs of a child held in the carrier body to support the child thereon, the bottom section comprising the front sleeve.
13. The child carrier according to claim 11 , wherein the lumbar belt is configured to be slideably extended through the front sleeve segment such that the carrier body is selectively positionable (i) at the front of the wearer's body to support the carrier body in an upright front carrying position, or (ii) towards the side of the wearer's body an upright side carrying position.
14. The child carrier according to claim 11 wherein the carrier body comprises a pair of lower support appendages extending outwardly from opposing sides thereof, the support appendages having the opposing side sleeves formed therein.
15. The child carrier according to claim 11 wherein the carrier body comprises an interior channel extending along a longitudinal axis thereof, and wherein the carrier body further comprises a support insert configured to be slideably positionable within the channel to support the infant's head in the sling carrying position.
16. The child carrier according to claim 15 wherein the support insert is slideably positionable towards an upper end of the carrier body to support the head of the child in the sling carrying position, and is slideably positionable away from the upper end of the carrier body to support the child in the upright carrying position.
17. A child carrier configured to be worn by a wearer for the carrying of a child therein, the child carrier comprising:
(a) a carrier body configured to support a child therein;
(b) a lumbar support belt configured to attach to the carrier body and support the carrier body on the wearer, the lumbar support belt comprising:
(i) a contoured lumbar panel configured to support the lumbar region of the wearer, the contoured lumbar panel comprising a curvature that is complimentary to a curvature of the lumbar region of the wearer; and
(ii) at least one lumbar belt strap attached to the lumbar panel and extensible about the wearer; and
(c) at least one shoulder strap attached to the carrier body and extensible over the wearer's shoulders.
18. The child carrier according to claim 17 wherein the contoured lumbar panel has a base panel comprising at least one of a formed rigid foam and a molded resilient material.
19. The child carrier according to claim 18 wherein the base panel curves inwardly from a top edge of the panel to a bottom edge of the panel, and wherein the base panel is of a thickness that substantially continuously decreases from a greater thickness at a middle portion of the base panel to a smaller thickness at top and bottom portions of the base panel.
20. The child carrier according to claim 18 wherein the base panel comprises:
a panel frame having a top edge defining a generally arcuate shape, sloping side edges and a bottom edge defining an inwardly curved indentation;
a web within the panel frame comprising first web lines radiating upwardly and outwardly from the indentation in the panel frame, and second web lines traversing the first lines; and
support arches superimposed over the first and second web lines.
Priority Applications (1)
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US12/234,045 US20100072236A1 (en) | 2008-09-19 | 2008-09-19 | Multifunctional child carrier |
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US12/234,045 US20100072236A1 (en) | 2008-09-19 | 2008-09-19 | Multifunctional child carrier |
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US12/234,045 Abandoned US20100072236A1 (en) | 2008-09-19 | 2008-09-19 | Multifunctional child carrier |
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