AU2018267663A1 - Infant swaddling system and components thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

Described herein is a swaddling wrap including a base layer, a pocket layer attached to the base layer, and left and right arm pockets formed between the base layer and the pocket layer. Each of the left and right arm pockets includes a lateral edge for 5 restraining lateral movement of the infant's arm and a base edge. Each pair of lateral and base edges defines a corner for capturing an infant's elbow in a bent position. 120A 104 120B Figure 1A Figure 1B

Description

Background of the invention

When young, many carers swaddle infants to help calm them and/or put them to sleep.

Traditional swaddling wraps have been used for this purpose for centuries - a piece of material (typically square or rectangular) in which an infant is wrapped. When 10 wrapped, the infant’s arms are restrained, preventing or reducing the impact of the startle reflex (which otherwise disturbs/wakes the infant).

As most parents know, however, regardless of how much care is taken in swaddling an infant, a wriggling infant will all but inevitably loosen the wrap and free his or her arms. This largely defeats the purpose of swaddling the infant in the first place.

Accordingly, there is a need to provide improved swaddling wraps for swaddling infants. In addition, or in the alternative, it would be desirable to provide a useful alternative to existing swaddling wraps.

Further, when sleeping on a mattress it is typically desirable for infants to remain on their back, with rolling having been linked to sudden infant death syndrome. 20 Accordingly, it would be also (or alternatively) desirable to provide an infant sleeping system which prevents or at least restricts the ability for an infant to roll. In addition, or as a further alternative, it would be desirable to provide a useful alternative to existing infant sleep systems.

Summary of the disclosure

In a first embodiment, the present disclosure provides a swaddling wrap including: a base layer; a pocket layer attached to the base layer; and left and right arm pockets formed between the base layer and the pocket layer, each of the left and right arm pockets including: a lateral edge for restraining lateral movement of the infant’s

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2018267663 23 Nov 2018 arm; and a base edge, wherein the lateral edge and base edge define a corner for capturing an infant's elbow in a bent position.

The pocket layer may be attached to base layer by stitching at least at the lateral and base edges of each of the left and right arm pockets.

The lateral and base edges may be straight edges. Alternatively, the lateral and base edges may be curved edges.

Each corner may have an angle of between 40 and 70 degrees.

The base layer may be circular in shape. Alternatively, the base layer may be rectangular in shape.

The base layer may include a slit formed therethrough, the slit positioned near an edge of the base layer and dimensioned to receive an infant securing band.

In a second embodiment, the present disclosure provides a securing band for wrapping around a torso of an infant, the securing band including: at least one elastic panel providing the securing band with elasticity along a long axis of the securing band;

cooperating attachment means for releasably attaching a first end of the securing band to a second end of the securing band.

The cooperating attachment means may include a first attachment means located on an inner surface of the securing band and a second attachment means located on an outer surface of the securing band.

The cooperating attachment means may be a hook and loop attachment means.

The securing band may further include first second and third non-elastic panels, and wherein: the at least one elastic panel may include a first elastic panel and a second elastic panel; the first elastic panel may be located between and attached to the first non-elastic panel and the second non-elastic panel; and the second elastic panel 25 may be located between and attached to the second non-elastic panel and the third non-elastic panel.

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The first attachment means may be located on the inner surface of the first nonelastic panel and the second attachment means may be located on the outer surface of the third non-elastic panel.

The securing band according may further include at least one expansion section allowing the securing band to be configured between an unextended configuration and an extended configuration.

The at least one expansion section may allow for symmetric lengthening along the long axis of the securing band.

The at least one expansion section may include a releasably secured pleat.

The releasably secured pleat may be secured in place by stitching.

The at least one expansion section may include a first expansion section and a second expansion section.

The securing band may alternatively include at least a middle panel and two end panels, and the at least one expansion section may be provided in the middle panel.

In a third embodiment, the present disclosure provides an infant securing system including: a swaddling wrap according to the first embodiment; and a securing band according to the second embodiment, wherein the slit of the swaddling wrap is sized to receive the securing band.

In a fourth embodiment, the present disclosure provides a mattress band including: securing band receiving means for releasably receiving a securing band; and cooperating attachment means for releasably attaching a first end of the mattress band to a second end of the mattress band, and wherein in use the mattress band is formed into a loop around a mattress such that the securing band receiving means is positioned on top of the mattress.

The cooperating attachment means may include a first attachment means located on an inner surface of the mattress band and a second attachment means located on an outer surface of the mattress band.

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The cooperating attachment means may be a hook and loop attachment means.

The securing band receiving means may include a pair of substantially parallel slits formed through the mattress band.

In a fifth embodiment, the present disclosure provides an infant sleep system including: a securing band according to the second embodiment; and a mattress band according to the fourth embodiment, wherein the substantially parallel slits of the mattress band are sized to receive the securing band.

In a sixth embodiment, the present disclosure provides an infant sleep system including: a swaddling wrap according to the first embodiment; a securing band 10 according to the second embodiment; and a mattress band according to the fourth embodiment, wherein the slit of the swaddling wrap and the substantially parallel slits of the mattress band are sized to receive the securing band.

Further features and embodiments will become apparent from the following description, given by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief description of the drawings

Embodiments will now be described with reference to the following drawings.

Figures 1A to 1D show a swaddling wrap in accordance with an embodiment;

Figures 2 to 6 are plan views of swaddling wraps in accordance with alternative embodiments;

Figures 7A and 7B are, respectively, plan views of inner and outer surfaces of an infant securing band;

Figures 8A to 8F illustrate use of a swaddling wrap (such as that shown in Figure 1 or Figure 11) with an infant securing band (such as that shown in Figures 7A and 7B) to swaddle an infant; and

Figures 9A and 9B are, respectively, plan views of inner and outer surfaces of a mattress band for use with an infant securing band (such as that shown in Figures 7A and 7B);

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Figure 10 shows use of an infant securing band (such as that shown in Figures

7A and 7B) with a mattress band (such as that shown in Figures 9A and 9B or 12A and

12B);

Figure 11 is a plan view of a swaddling wrap in accordance with a further 5 alternative embodiment;

Figures 12A and 12B are, respectively, plan views of inner and outer surfaces of an alternative embodiment of a mattress band for use with an infant securing band (such as that shown in Figures 7A and 7B);

Figure 13A is a perspective view of an infant securing band in accordance with a 10 further embodiment;

Figures 13B and 13C are, respectively, plan views of the inner and outer surfaces of the infant securing band of Figure 13A in an unexpanded configuration; and

Figures 13D and 13E are, respectively, plan views of the inner and outer surfaces of the infant securing band of Figure 13A in an expanded configuration.

Use of the same reference numerals in different figures indicates the same or functionally similar features.

Detailed description of the embodiments

The present invention relates to various products or components for use with infants.

Various embodiments of three separate products are described herein: a swaddling wrap, an infant securing band, and a mattress band. These products may be used individually and/or with each other in various combinations.

For example, and as described below, the swaddling wrap described herein may be used by itself or with an infant securing band (according to embodiments described 25 herein or otherwise). Use of the swaddling wrap with the infant securing band will be referred to as a swaddling system.

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The swaddling system (i.e. swaddling wrap and infant securing band) may further be used in combination with a mattress band (according to embodiments described herein or otherwise). Use of the swaddling wrap with the infant securing band and mattress band will be referred to as a sleeping system.

Swaddling wrap

Figures 1A and 1B shows plan views of a swaddling wrap 100 in accordance with an embodiment. Saddling wrap 100 is shown in an orientation intended for an infant to in be placed with his/her head at the top of the wrap 100 and legs at the bottom. Where used, directional and positional references in this disclosure refer to the swaddling wrap 10 100 in this orientation.

Swaddling wrap 100 includes a base layer 102 and a pocket layer 104.

Base layer 102 forms the bulk of the swaddling wrap and, in this example, is roughly circular. Pocket layer 104 is attached to the base layer 102, forming at least one pocket between the pocket layer 104 and base layer 102.

In the present embodiment, the pocket layer 104 is attached to the base layer

102 by stitching. Alternative attachment means may, however, be used. For example, the pocket layer 104 may be permanently attached to the base layer 102 by an adhesive, fusible interfacing, or other bond. Alternatively, the pocket layer 104 may be removably attached to the base layer 102 by Velcro (or other hook and loop fastener), 20 press-studs, magnets, or other attachment means.

Attachment of the pocket layer 104 to the base layer 102 is illustrated in Figure 1B which indicates edges of the pocket layer 104 that are attached (e.g. by stitching or other means) to the base layer 102 in heavier weight lines, and edges of the pocket layer 104 that are not attached to the base layer in broken line. Specifically, the pocket 25 layer 104 is attached to the base layer 102 at the outer edge 106 of the base layer 102, at left and right lateral edges 108A and 108B, and at left and right base edges 110A and 110B. Edge 112 of the pocket layer 104 (in this example arc-shaped) that joins the left and right base edges 110A and 110B is not attached to the base layer 102, thus creating an opening between the base layer 102 and pocket layer 104.

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Each lateral edge 108A and 108B extends from the outer edge 106 of the swaddling wrap 100 inwardly towards a vertical centreline of the base layer 102 (indicated by dot-dash line 114) and downwardly towards a horizontal centreline of the base layer (indicated by dot-dash line 116). Each base edge 110A and 110B extends 5 from the internal end of its associated lateral edge 108A/B inwardly towards the vertical centreline 114 and upwardly towards the outer edge 106 of the swaddling wrap 100. A corner indicated by the symbol φ is defined where each lateral edge 108A/B joins its associated base edge 110A/B.

Attachment of the pocket layer 104 to the base layer 102 as described above 10 forms a right arm pocket 120A (bounded by lateral edge 108A and base edge 110A) and a left arm pocket 120B (bounded by lateral edge 108B and base edge 110B). In use, and as described below with reference to Figures 8A and 8F, an infant’s right and left arms are positioned respectively in the right and left arm pockets 120A/B. When positioned correctly, the infant’s bent elbows are captured in the corners φ of the 15 pockets 120A/B and the infant’s forearms extend upwardly along lateral edges 108A/B.

Once the infant is so positioned, the base layer 102 is wrapped around the infant to swaddle him/her.

To swaddle the infant, the base layer 102 may be secured without any additional mechanism (e.g. by tucking/wrapping methods). Alternatively, a band (such as the 20 securing band 700 described below or an alternative securing band) may be used to encircle the infant’s torso around the outside of the swaddle wrap 100 to assist in retaining the swaddle wrap 100 in place. This is discussed further below.

Once swaddled, the infant is restricted from moving his/her arms laterally by extending his/her elbows due to his/her arms being located in the pockets 120A/B. This 25 both reduces the impact of the startle reflex and reduces the ability of the infant to wiggle free from the swaddle wrap 100. At the same time, however, the infant can move his/her arms medially, for example to self-comfort by sucking on his/her hands or forearms.

In the present embodiment, the right and left arm pockets 120A/B are opposite 30 sides of a single pocket formed by attachment of the pocket layer 104 to the base layer 102. In alternative embodiments the right and left arm pockets 120A/B may be separate

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2018267663 23 Nov 2018 pockets - e.g. formed by separate pocket layers or by additional stitching through a single pocket layer.

The pocket layer 104 and base layer 102 may be formed from separate sheets of material (as depicted in Figure 1C) or a single, folded sheet of material (as shown in 5 Figure 1D). Where separate sheets of material are used the separate sheets will typically be of the same material type, however alternative material types may be used. Any appropriate material/fabric may be used for the pocket and base layers 104 and 102, for example muslin, voile, lawn, poplin, flannel (in cotton, bamboo, a cotton bamboo blend, or other material).

In certain embodiments a material with some degree of natural stretch is used, and in order to take advantage of the natural stretch the material/fabric is cut on the bias (i.e. diagonal to the weave of the fabric). This allows the wrap 100 to naturally stretch quite significantly in comparison to the warp and weft stretch. Specifically, the wrap 100 (or at least the base layer 102) is oriented so that the bias runs across the base layer

102 in the direction of the horizontal centreline 116. When an infant’s body is positioned on the wrap 100 (i.e. so his or her spine is approximately aligned with the vertical centreline 114), having the bias run in the horizontal direction his allows the wrap 100 to stretch across the infant’s body.

In Figure 1, the base layer 102 of the swaddle wrap 100 is shown and described as being roughly circular. This shape can be advantageous as it reduces the amount of excess material that can collect around the face of an infant. Alternative shapes can be used. For example, Figure 2 shows a swaddle wrap 200 with a rectangular base layer 202 and a pocket layer 204 aligned along an edge of the base layer 202. Figure 3 shows a swaddle wrap 300 with a rectangular (e.g. square) base layer 302 and a pocket layer 304 positioned at a corner of the base layer 302. Alternatively shaped base layers could be used.

Further, while the pocket layer of the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 3 is shown as having a same shape, alternative shapes are possible. Importantly, however, attachment of the pocket layer(s) to the base layer will define arm pockets for receiving 30 an infant’s arms, each arm pocket having a corner for capturing an infant’s elbow in a bent position and a lateral edge for restraining extension of the infant’s elbow and lateral

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2018267663 23 Nov 2018 movement of the infant’s arm. Further, the pockets allow the caregiver to wrap the infant so his/her hands are positioned at/near the infant’s chest/chin/face, providing greater ability to customise the wrapping than traditional swaddling wraps.

Figures 4, 5, and 6 show further alternative embodiments which are similar to the embodiments of Figures 1, 2, and 3 respectively. In each of the embodiments shown in Figures 4, 5, and 6 a securing band receiving slit 402 is formed through the base layer 102. Securing band receiving slit 402 is positioned near a side edge of the base layer 102 and runs approximately parallel to a vertical centre line 114 of the base layer 102. Securing band receiving slit 402 is dimensioned to receive a securing band, for example 10 as described below. In use, the securing band is passed through the securing band receiving slit 402 to assist keeping the securing band in place.

In certain embodiments, securing band receiving slit 402 may be the same or marginally longer than the width of the securing band so that the securing band is received snugly through the slit 402. This restricts the positioning of the securing band.

In alternative embodiments, securing band receiving slit 402 may be longer than the width of the securing band, allowing the vertical position of the securing band to be adjusted within the slit 402 (by upward/d own ward movement in the slit 402).

Slit 402 may be formed in any appropriate manner. For example, slit 402 may be formed by cutting through the base layer at the appropriate position then overlocking 20 and binding the edges of the cut to prevent fraying and tearing.

The precise dimensions and angles of the swaddling wrap 100 may vary. By way of example, however, in certain embodiments approximate measurements are as follows. The width of the base layer 102 (e.g. in a horizontal direction such as 116) is approximately 1200-1450mm. The height of the base layer 102 (e.g. in a vertical 25 direction such as 114) is approximately 1200-1450mm. The left and right lateral edges 108A/B join the outer edge 106 of the base layer 102 at approximately 300-340mm from a vertical centreline 114, extend downwardly and inwardly at an angle of approximately 20-50 degrees off a vertical reference line (indicated by angle Θ), and are approximately 200-250mm. The angle φ between each lateral edge 108A/B and its associated base 30 edge 110A/B is approximately 40-70 degrees, and the base edges 110A/B are each approximately 100-140mm long. This results in a separation D1 of approximately 2709

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350mm between the ends of the base edges 110A/B. In embodiments which make use of a securing band receiving slit 402, the slit may be vertically oriented approximately central to a horizontal centreline 116 of the base layer 102 and approximately 130160mm long.

In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 to 6, the pocket layer 104 has been shown and described as having straight lateral edges 108A/B and base edges 110A/B (and, accordingly, an angular corner φ between them). In alternative embodiments, however, curved edges could instead be used. Figure 11 provides an example 1100 of this. In swaddling wrap 1100 the lateral edges 108A/B and base edges 110A/B are 10 defined by continuous re-entrant curves 1102A and 1102B respectively. Specifically, the lateral edges 108A/B are formed by long edges of curves 1102A/B extending from the edge of the base layer 102, and the base edges 110A/B are formed by the shorter, reentrant edges of curves 1102A/B. The corners φ for capturing an infant’s elbows are defined by the relative tight radius corners of the curves 1102A/B. Swaddling wrap 1100 15 is shown with a circular base layer 102, however any appropriately shaped base layer may be used. Similarly, swaddling wrap 1100 is shown without a securing band receiving slit (e.g. 402), but such a slit could be provided.

The swaddle wraps described in the above embodiments can also be used for additional purposes. For example, the swaddle wrap can be used as a pram cover. In 20 this case, the handle of a pram can be inserted into the pocket formed between the base and pocket layers to assist in locating the swaddle wrap on the pram and keeping it in place.

Infant securing band

Figures 7A and 7B respectively show inner surface and outer surface views of an 25 infant securing band 700 in accordance with an embodiment.

Infant securing band 700 is rectangular in shape, having a width approximately sized to fit around the torso of an infant. In use, the securing band 700 is wrapped around an infant forming a loop. References to inner and outer surfaces of the securing band 700 are made with reference to the securing band 700 in a loop configuration (i.e.

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2018267663 23 Nov 2018 the inner surface facing inwardly towards the infant and the outer surface facing outwardly away from the infant).

In the illustrated embodiment, the securing band 700 is made up of 5 attached panels: a first non-elastic panel 702; a first elastic panel 704 adjacent the first non5 elastic panel 702; a second non-elastic panel 706 adjacent the first elastic panel 704; a second elastic panel 708 adjacent the second non-elastic panel 706; and a third nonelastic panel 710 adjacent the second elastic panel 708. The first non-elastic panel 702 defines one end (e.g. a first end) 712 of the securing band 700 and the second nonelastic panel 710 defines the opposite end (e.g. a second end) 714 of the securing band 10 700. While panels 702, 706 and 710 have been described as non-elastic panels, it will be appreciated that this is relative to elastic panels 704 and 708. The ‘non-elastic’ panels may exhibit some natural stretch/elasticity due to the weave, but are not made of an elastic material/do not exhibit the same degree of elasticity as the elastic panels. Panels 702, 704, 706, 708 and 710 may be secured to one another in appropriate way, 15 for example by adhesive, stitching, or other appropriate means.

The elastic panels 704 and 708 are included to provide the securing band 700 with a stretch/resilience along its long axis. In use, this allows the band 700 to be secured around an infant such that the band 700 applies a firm but gentle pressure to the infant’s torso. At least with some infants, this pressure is comforting and assists in 20 settling the infant and reduces the effects of colic. The elasticity/stretchability of the band 700 also allows it to be more easily used with different size infants and reduces the likelihood of an infant being too tightly wrapped. Furthermore, by locating the elastic panels 704 and 708 so that, in use, they are positioned at the sides of an infant’s torso, the securing band 700 allows the infant to be secured without restricting the infant’s hip25 joint so that the infant’s hips and legs can easily fall into the natural (and recommended) ‘frog’ leg position.

In alternative embodiments, the stretch/resilience of the securing band 700 may be provided by additional or fewer elastic panels.

Any appropriate materials may be used for the elastic and non-elastic panels. By 30 way of example, elastic panels may be made of nylon, elastane, spandex, two-way stretch mesh, or an alternative material. Non-elastic panels (which as noted above may

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2018267663 23 Nov 2018 exhibit some natural stretch) may, for example, be made of drill fabric, canvas, quilting, mercerised, twill, broadcloth, gabardine, herringbonejacquard, poplin fabric.

In order to secure the two ends of the securing band 700 together to form a loop, cooperating attachment means are provided at each end 712 and 714. In the illustrated 5 embodiment, the cooperating attachment means include an inner surface attachment means 716 located at one end (in this case the second end 714) of the band 700 and an outer surface attachment means 718 located at the opposite end (in this case the first end 712) of the band 700 on the outer surface. In use, the securing band 700 is passed around the torso of an infant forming a loop. The inner surface attachment 10 means 716 is positioned over the outer surface attachment means 718 and releasably attached thereto.

In the illustrated embodiment the attachment means is a hook and loop type attachment means (e.g. Velcro). The inner surface attachment means 716 includes three hook-carrying material strips 720A, 720B and 720C which are stitched (or 15 otherwise attached) to the inner surface of panel 710. The outer surface attachment means 718 includes a panel of loop-carrying material 722 which is stitched (or otherwise attached) to the outer surface of panel 702. The hook-carrying material and loop-carrying material may as depicted/described may be switched (e.g. so that material strips 720 carry loops and panel 722 carries hooks). Further alternatively, the outer 20 surface attachment means 716 may also be a panel of material instead of a plurality of strips of material. By providing a number of material strips or a panel, the securing band 700 can be formed into loops with circumferences of varying lengths. Any appropriate cooperating attachment means may, however, be used. As a further example, an array of press-studs could be used as an alternative to the hook and loop means described 25 above.

The precise dimensions of the securing band 700 may vary. By way of example, however, in certain embodiments approximate measurements are as follows. The width of the securing band 700 (at its widest point) is approximately 120-150mm. The total length of the securing band 700 is approximately 450-625mm. Each panel 702, 704, 30 706, 708, and 710 is approximately 90-125mm long (excluding any overlap that panels may be provided with for securing the panels together).

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Turning to Figure 13A, a perspective view of an infant securing band 1300 in accordance with a further embodiment will be described. A number of features of infant securing band 1300 are the same or similar to those of infant securing band 700 as described above. Like reference numerals will be used for those features and they will not be described in detail again.

As with infant securing band 700, the illustrated embodiment of infant securing band 1300 is made up of 5 attached panels including, in sequence: a first non-elastic panel 702 (also referred to as an end panel); a first elastic panel 704; a second nonelastic panel which, in the present embodiment, will be referred to as the middle panel 10 1306; a second elastic panel 708; and a third non-elastic panel 710 (also referred to as an end panel). Infant securing band 1300 could, however, be made up of a different number and/or combination of elastic and non-elastic panels (including being made up of one or more elastic panels only or one or more non-elastic panels only).

As with infant securing band 700, infant securing band 1300 includes cooperating attachment means which are used to secure the two ends of the securing band 1300 together to form the band 1300 into a loop. Various cooperating attachment means are possible: hook and loop attachment means; press-studs; buttons/button holes; magnets; or any other appropriate cooperating attachment means. In the illustrated embodiment the cooperating attachment means includes a panel of loop-carrying material 722 (the outer surface attachment means 716) and a panel of hook-carrying material 1320 (the inner surface attachment means 718, see Figures 13B and 13C).

The main difference between infant securing band 1300 and infant securing band 700 lies in the fact that infant securing band 1300 includes an expansion section 1330 that allows the infant securing band 1300 to be configured between an unexpanded 25 configuration (shown in Figures 13A, 13B and 13D) and an expanded configuration (shown in Figures 13C and 13E). In the unexpanded configuration the infant securing band 1300 has a relatively shorter length and, as such, is suitable for relatively smaller infants. In the expanded configuration the infant securing band 1300 has a relatively longer length and, as such, is suitable for relatively larger infants. Because of this the 30 infant securing band 1300 will typically be initially configured (e.g. on manufacture/sale) in the unexpanded configuration and configured to the expanded configuration as the

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2018267663 23 Nov 2018 infant for which the band was acquired grows. Initial configuration in the expanded configuration is, however, also possible.

In the illustrated embodiment, two expansion sections 1300 are provided in the middle panel 1306: a first expansion section 1330a and a second expansion section 5 1330b. The first and second expansion sections 1330a and 1330b are symmetrically positioned in the middle panel 1306, in this case each expansion section being located roughly one quarter of the length of the middle panel 1306 from either end thereof.

As configured, expansion sections 1330a and 1330b allow for symmetrical lengthening/shortening of the infant securing band 1300 along its long axis (i.e. in the 10 direction of length L). While symmetrical lengthening/shortening is not essential, it is advantageous in some embodiments. In normal use, the middle panel 1306 is intended to locate at the back of the infant and the two ends are secured atop the infant’s chest/stomach region or thereabouts (as shown in Figure 8F, discussed below). By providing for symmetric lengthening/shortening, this arrangement remains the same 15 whether the infant securing band 1300 is in the expanded or unexpanded configuration.

In contrast, non-symmetric lengthening/shortening would result in the ends of the infant securing band 1300 overlapping (and being secured to one another) somewhere offset from the middle panel 1306: i.e. if the middle panel 1306 was located at the infant’s back, the ends could overlap/need to be secured to one another at one of the infant’s 20 sides in either the expanded or unexpanded configuration.

In the present embodiment, each expansion section 1330a and 1330b is in the form of a releasably secured pleat 1332a and 1332b respectively. In order to configure the infant securing band 1300 into the unexpanded configuration, the pleat 1332 is formed by folding material of the middle section 1306 back on itself to form a pleat and 25 releasably secured in place. In the present embodiment, the pleat is releasably secured in place by stitching 1334 which holds the material layers in the pleated arrangement. Any stitch-type appropriate to the fabric may be used, for example a normal straight stitch. In the present embodiment the stitching 1334 passes through all three layers of material created by the pleat. In alternative embodiments the stitching 1334 may pass 30 through only two layers of material created by the pleat.

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Securing the pleat in place shortens the length of the middle panel 1306 and, therefore, the overall length L of the infant securing band 1300. In order to configure the infant securing band 1300 into the expanded configuration, the pleat is released (e.g. by removing/unpicking stitching 1334), allowing the middle panel 1306 to lengthen and, therefore, the overall length L of the infant securing band 1300 to increase.

Figures 13B and 13C show plan views of, respectively, the inner and outer surfaces of infant securing band 1300 in an unexpanded configuration. In Figures 13B and 13C pleats 1332a and 1332b are stitched in place with stitching 1334a and 1334b respectively.

Figures 13D and 13E show plan views of, respectively, the inner and outer surfaces of infant securing band 1300 in an expanded configuration. In Figures 13D and 13E, stitching 1334a and 1334b has been removed/unpicked to release pleats 1332a and 1332b.

By way of one particular example, approximate measurements of an infant 15 securing band 1300 suitable (as a generalisation) for infants aged up to around 6 months are as follows. The width of the securing band 1300 (at its widest point) may be approximately 120-150mm or approximately 950mm to 140mm. The total length L of the securing band 1300 in its unexpanded configuration is approximately 430mm. The total length L of the securing band 1300 in its expanded configuration is approximately 20 500mm. Excluding any overlap that panels may be provided with for securing the panels together: non-elastic panels 702 and 710 are approximately 80mm long; elastic panels 704 and 708 are approximately 95mm long; middle panel 1306 is approximately 80mm long when unexpanded and 150mm long when expanded.

Viewed alternatively, in one embodiment the length L of the infant securing band 25 1300 increases by approximately 15% when configured from the unexpanded configuration to the expanded configuration.

As with infant securing band 700, however, infant securing band 1300 may be manufactured with different overall dimensions - and different expandablities - as required. For example, a ‘small’ model may be provided for ‘small’ infants, a medium 30 model for ‘medium’ infants, and or a large model provided for ‘large’ infants. The

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2018267663 23 Nov 2018 expandability, however, allows a single infant securing band 1300 to be used with a greater range of infant sizes - be they different infants or the same growing infant.

In the embodiment described above, the expandability of infant securing band 1300 is provided by two stitched pleats in the middle panel 1306. Expandability may, however, be provided by alternative means. For example, expandability may be provided by one or more expandable sections in one or more non-elastic panels (e.g. 702, 1306, and/or 710). In addition, or alternatively, one or more expandable sections may be provided in one or more elastic panels (e.g. 704 and 708, however in this case greater care may be required to ensure the elasticity of the elastic panels 704 and 708 is not compromised by the inclusion of any expandable sections).

Furthermore, where expandability is provided by a pleat/fold, releasably securing the pleat/fold in place (to provide the unexpanded configuration) may be done in various ways, for example: hook and loop type fastener(s); press-stud(s); button(s); zip(s); magnets or any other appropriate releasable securing mechanism.

As a still further example, expandability could be provided by one or more replaceable panels. For example, the middle panel 1306 of infant securing band 1300 could be releasably secured to adjacent panels 704 and 708 (e.g. by hook and loop fasteners, press studs, buttons, zippers, or any other appropriate means). In this case, infant securing band 1300 is provided with at least two middle panels of different lengths

- at least a shorter middle panel and a longer middle panel - and instead of middle panel 1306 having an expansion section a given middle panel is itself the expansion section. For example, infant securing band 1300 could be provided with a shorter middle panel having an approximate length of 80mm and a longer middle panel having an approximate length of 150mm (further middle panels of shorter, intermediate, and/or longer lengths could also be provided). In this case, configuring the infant securing band 1300 to the unexpanded configuration would involve securing the shorter middle panel to adjacent panels 704 and 708, and configuring it to an expanded configuration would involve removing the shorter middle panel and securing the longer middle panel to adjacent panels 704 to 708.

As noted, the securing band 700 (or an embodiment thereof, such as the embodiment of Figures 13A to 13E) may be used with a swaddling wrap 100 as

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2018267663 23 Nov 2018 described above to provide a swaddling system. As also noted, in certain embodiments the swaddling wrap 100 is provided with a slit (e.g. slit 402) especially for cooperating with the securing band 700. In these embodiments, the width of the securing band 700 and the length of the slit 402 in the swaddling wrap are selected to allow this cooperation - i.e. to allow the securing band 700 to be received through the slit 402.

Similarly, and as will be described below, the securing band 700 (or an embodiment thereof, such as the embodiment of Figures 13A to 13E) may be used with a mattress band 900. In this case the width of the securing band 700 and the length of the mattress band slits 904 and 906 are selected to allow the securing band 700 to be 10 received through the mattress band slits 904 and 906.

The securing band 700 (or an embodiment thereof, such as the embodiment of Figures 13A to 13E) may, of course, be used with both a swaddling wrap (such as swaddling wrap 100) and a mattress band (such as mattress band 800). In this case the widths of the securing band 700, slit (e.g. 402) provided in the swaddling wrap, and 15 mattress band slits (e.g. 904 and 906) are all selected to allow cooperation/inter operation.

Figures 8A to 8F illustrate use of a swaddling wrap 100 with a securing band 700 to securely swaddle an infant. The use illustrated in Figures 8A to 8F is also applicable to securing bands of alternative embodiments, e.g. securing band 1300.

In Figure 8A, an infant is placed on his or her back on the swaddling wrap 800.

In Figures 8B and 8C, the infant’s arms are put in the arm pockets 120A and 120B so that the infant’s elbows are positioned in the corners thereof.

In Figure 8D, the base layer 102 of the swaddle wrap 100 is wrapped around the infant to swaddle the infant.

In Figures 8E and 8F, the securing band 700 (or 1300) is looped around the swaddled infant’s torso and secured in the loop configuration, thereby securing the swaddling wrap 100 around the infant. As can be seen, when looping the securing band 700 (or 1300) around the infant the middle of the securing band (e.g. panel 706 of band 700 or panel 1306 of band 1300) is approximately aligned with the infant’s back, and the

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2018267663 23 Nov 2018 ends of the securing band 700 (or 1300) meet (and are secured together) atop the infants stomach/chest area.

As can also be seen, in the use illustrated in Figures 8A to 8F the swaddling wrap 100 is not provided with a slit (such as 402) for receiving the securing band.

Mattress band

Figures 9A and 9B respectively show outer surface and inner surface views of a mattress band 900.

Mattress band 900 is rectangular in shape. In use, the mattress band 900 is looped around a mattress, for example in a cot, infant bed, Moses basket, bassinet. 10 References to inner and outer surfaces of the mattress band 900 are made with reference to the mattress band 900 in a loop configuration (i.e. the inner surface facing inwardly towards the mattress and the outer surface facing outwardly away from the mattress).

Mattress band 900 includes a securing band receiving means indicated generally 15 by arrow 902. The securing band receiving means 902 is for releasably receiving a securing band such as securing band 700 or securing band 1300 described above. In the illustrated embodiment, the securing band receiving means includes a pair of substantially parallel slits 904 and 906, use of which will be described below.

In order to secure the two ends of the mattress band 900 once the mattress band

900 has been looped around a mattress, cooperating attachment means are provided at each end. In the illustrated embodiment, the cooperating attachment means includes an outer surface attachment means 908 located at a first end 910 of the band 900 on the outer surface, and an inner surface attachment means 912 located at a second end 914 of the band 900 on the inner surface. In use, the mattress band 900 is placed on the top of a mattress and looped around the mattress so that the outer and inner surface attachment means 908 and 912 overlie and releasably attach to one another underneath the mattress (i.e. the surface of the mattress that lies on the floor/bed). This positions the securing band receiving means 902 (e.g. slits 904 and 906) atop the mattress.

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In the illustrated embodiment the attachment means is a hook and loop type attachment means (e.g. Velcro). The outer surface attachment means 908 includes a panel of loop-carrying material 916 which is stitched (or otherwise attached) in place on the mattress band 900. The inner surface attachment means 912 includes three hook5 carrying material strips 918A, 918B and 918C which are also stitched (or otherwise attached) to mattress band 900. The hook-carrying material and loop-carrying material may as depicted/described may be switched (e.g. so that material strips 918 carry loops and panel 916 carries hooks). Further alternatively, the inner surface attachment means 912 may also be a panel of material instead of a plurality of strips of material. By 10 providing a number of material strips or a panel, the mattress band 900 can be formed into loops with circumferences of varying lengths. Any appropriate cooperating attachment means may, however, be used. As one example, press-studs could be used as an alternative to the hook and loop means described above.

Figure 10 shows the mattress band 900 securely fastened around a mattress 15 1002. A securing band such as band 700 or band 1300 (or an alternative band) is then passed through both slits 904 and 906 of the mattress band 900. An infant (not shown in Figure 10) is laid on his or her back atop the securing band 700 or 1300 which is then secured in a loop around the infant’s torso (so the infant is facing upwards). The infant may be in any normal resting attire, or may be swaddled in a swaddling wrap as 20 described above. In this way, the mattress band 900 and securing band 700 or 1300 act together to keep the infant lying on his or her back and prevent the infant from rolling to either side. Infants’ rolling in their sleep has been identified as a significant safety concern, so preventing such rolling (as described above) is desirable.

The precise dimensions ofthe mattress band 900 may vary. Generally speaking, 25 however, the mattress band 900 may be sized to encircle either a standard sized infant bassinet or cot mattress.

For example, a standard size bassinet mattress may be 720-800mm x 380-440 mm. In this case, the width of the mattress band 900 may be approximately 1000mm 1300mm. The length ofthe mattress band 900 may be approximately 350-550mm. Slits 30 904 and 906 are positioned to be centrally located on the mattress when the mattress band 900 is in use and to have an approximate separation (indicated by D2) of 13019

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160mm. To achieve this, slits 904 and 906 may be positioned approximately 490570mm from respective ends 910 and 914 (indicated by D3 and D4 respectively). Slits

904 and 906 commence approximately 130-185mm from the top of the mattress band

900 (indicated by D5), are approximately 130-160mm long (indicated by D6) and end approximately 130-185mm from the bottom of the mattress band 900 (indicated by D7).

By way of alternative example, a standard size cot mattress may be 12001400mm x 620-800mm. In this case, the width of the mattress band 900 may be approximately 1500mm-2100mm. The length of the mattress band 900 may be approximately 350-550mm. Slits 904 and 906 are positioned to be centrally located on 10 the mattress when the mattress band 900 is in use and to have an approximate separation (indicated by D2) of 130-160mm. To achieve this, slits 904 and 906 may be positioned approximately 740-950mm from respective ends 910 and 914 (indicated by D3 and D4 respectively). Slits 904 and 906 commence approximately 130-185mm from the top of the mattress band 900 (indicated by D5), are approximately 130-160mm long 15 (indicated by D6) and end approximately 130-185mm from the bottom of the mattress band 900 (indicated by D7).

In still further embodiments, a mattress band 1200 may be configured for use with different types of mattresses - e.g. with both a standard cot and a standard bassinet size mattress. This is illustrated in Figures 12A and 12B. The overall 20 dimensions of mattress band 1200 are selected to allow the band 1200 to be used with the largest envisaged mattress (e.g. a cot mattress). Silts 904 and 906 are centrally positioned on the band so no matter which size mattress the slits will, in use, be centrally positioned on the upper surface of the mattress. To allow the mattress band 1200 to be used with mattresses of different sizes, corresponding pairs of attachment 25 means are provided at appropriate positions on the outer and inner surfaces respectively. In the illustrated example, the outer surface is provided with first and second outer surface attachment means 1202 and 1204 (e.g. panels of loop carrying material) and the inner surface is provided with first and second inner surface attachment means 1206 and 1208 (e.g. panels of hook carrying material). If the 30 mattress band 1200 is used with a larger mattress (e.g. a cot mattress), securement around the mattress is achieved by securing the first outer surface attachment means 1202 to the first inner surface attachment means 1206. Alternatively, if the mattress

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2018267663 23 Nov 2018 band 1200 is used with a smaller mattress (e.g. a bassinet mattress), securement around the mattress is achieved by securing the second outer surface attachment means 1204 to the second inner surface attachment means 1208. Instead of providing pairs of panels (e.g. 1202 and 1204 on the outer surface and 106 and 1208 on the inner 5 surface) each surface may be provided with a single, larger panel occupying, for example, the surface area of the two panels shown in Figures 12A and 12B. Alternative attachment means may again be used, for example corresponding arrays of male/female press stud attachments or the like.

In the embodiments described above slits 904 and 906 have been described as the means by which a securing band 700 is releasably attached to the mattress band 900. Slits are advantageous as they provide a very secure attachment (and roll prevention mechanism) but do not substantially increase the bulk of the mattress/bedding underneath an infant or make it lumpy/uneven. Alternative means could, however, be used. For example, the mattress band 900 and securing band 700 could be provided with cooperating fastening means such as press-studs or hook and loop sections allowing for removable attachment of the securing band 700 to the mattress band 900.

Although the description uses the terms “first,” “second,” etc. to describe various elements, these terms are used to distinguish elements from one another only and not 20 in an ordinal sense. For example, a first panel could be termed a second panel, and, similarly, a second panel could be termed a first panel, without departing from the scope of the various examples described.

It will be understood that the invention disclosed and defined in this specification extends to all alternative combinations of two or more of the individual features 25 mentioned or evident from the text or drawings. All of these different combinations constitute various alternative aspects of the invention.

Claims (25)

1. A swaddling wrap including:

a base layer;

a pocket layer attached to the base layer; and

5 left and right arm pockets formed between the base layer and the pocket layer, each of the left and right arm pockets including:

a lateral edge for restraining lateral movement of the infant’s arm; and a base edge, wherein the lateral edge and base edge define a corner for capturing an infant's elbow in a bent position.

2. A swaddling wrap according to claim 1, wherein the pocket layer is attached to base layer by stitching at least at the lateral and base edges of each of the left and right arm pockets.

15

3. A swaddling wrap according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the lateral and base edges are straight edges.

4. A swaddling wrap according to claim 3, wherein the each corner has an angle of between 40 and 70 degrees.

5. A swaddling wrap according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the lateral and base edges are curved edges.

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6. A swaddling wrap according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the base layer is circular in shape.

7. A swaddling wrap according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the base layer 5 is rectangular in shape.

8. A swaddling wrap according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the base layer includes a slit formed therethrough, the slit positioned near an edge of the base layer and dimensioned to receive an infant securing band.

9. A securing band for wrapping around a torso of an infant, the securing band including:

at least one elastic panel providing the securing band with elasticity along a long axis of the securing band;

15 cooperating attachment means for releasably attaching a first end of the securing band to a second end of the securing band.

10. A securing band according to claim 9, wherein the cooperating attachment means includes a first attachment means located on an inner surface of the securing

20 band and a second attachment means located on an outer surface of the securing band.

11. A securing band according to claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the cooperating attachment means is a hook and loop attachment means.

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12. A securing band according to any one of claims 9 to 11, further including first second and third non-elastic panels, and wherein:

the at least one elastic panel includes a first elastic panel and a second elastic panel;

5 the first elastic panel is located between and attached to the first non-elastic panel and the second non-elastic panel; and the second elastic panel is located between and attached to the second nonelastic panel and the third non-elastic panel.

10

13. A securing band according to any one of claims 9 to 11, further including first second and third non-elastic panels, and wherein:

the at least one elastic panel includes a first elastic panel and a second elastic panel;

the first elastic panel is located between and attached to the first non-elastic

15 panel and the second non-elastic panel;

the second elastic panel is located between and attached to the second nonelastic panel and the third non-elastic panel;

the first attachment means is located on the inner surface of the first non-elastic panel; and

20 the second attachment means is located on the outer surface of the third nonelastic panel.

14. A securing band according to any one of claims 9 to 13, further including at least one expansion section allowing the securing band to be configured between an

25 unextended configuration and an extended configuration.

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15. A securing band according to claim 14, wherein the at least one expansion section allows for symmetric lengthening along the long axis of the securing band.

16. A securing band according to claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the at least one

5 expansion section includes a releasably secured pleat.

17. A securing band according to claim 16, wherein the releasably secured pleat is secured in place by stitching.

10

18. A securing band according to any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein the at least one expansion section includes a first expansion section and a second expansion section.

19. A securing band according to any one of claims 14 to 18 when dependent on any 15 one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the securing band further includes at least a middle panel and two end panels, and wherein the at least one expansion section is provided in the middle panel.

20. An infant securing system including:

20 a swaddling wrap according to claim 8; and a securing band according to any one of claims 9 to 19, wherein the slit of the swaddling wrap is sized to receive the securing band.

21. A mattress band including:

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2018267663 23 Nov 2018 securing band receiving means for releasably receiving a securing band; and cooperating attachment means for releasably attaching a first end of the mattress band to a second end of the mattress band, and wherein in use the mattress band is formed into a loop around a mattress such that the

5 securing band receiving means is positioned on top of the mattress.

22. A mattress band according to claim 21, wherein the cooperating attachment means includes a first attachment means located on an inner surface of the mattress band and a second attachment means located on an outer surface of the mattress

10 band.

23. A mattress band according to claim 21 or claim 22, wherein the cooperating attachment means is a hook and loop attachment means.

15

24. A mattress band according to any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein the securing band receiving means includes a pair of substantially parallel slits formed through the mattress band.

25. An infant sleep system including:

20 a securing band according to any one of claims 9 to 19; and a mattress band according to claim 24, wherein the substantially parallel slits of the mattress band are sized to receive the securing band.

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20. An infant sleep system including:

a swaddling wrap according to claim 8;

a securing band according to any one of claims 9 to 19; and a mattress band according to claim 24, wherein

5 the slit of the swaddling wrap and the substantially parallel slits of the mattress band are sized to receive the securing band.