CN207803908U - Portable child swing device, portable child motion device and child swing device - Google Patents

Abstract

Embodiments of the utility model relate to a portable children's rocker, a portable children's exercise device and a children's rocker. The portable children's travel rocker includes a rocker frame and a rocking chair. Either or both of the rocker frame and the rocking chair are collapsible for ease of transport. The rocker can be used in a first rocking motion mode when attached to the rocker frame, or independently in a second rocking motion mode when detached from the rocker frame. Electronic features and controls are optionally provided on the rocker for dual mode operation.

Description

Portable children's rockers, portable children's exercise equipment and children's rockers

Cross References to Related Applications

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/304,653, filed March 7, 2016, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/394,897, filed September 15, 2016, the entirety of which is The purpose is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

technical field

The utility model generally relates to the field of children's accessories, and more particularly relates to a portable rocking device for children with a removable rocking chair device.

Background technique

Motion equipment, such as rockers, bouncers, slides, are commonly used to support infants and young children during rest or play, and to entertain and soothe the child with steady periodic motion. Children's swings are generally one of two types - larger (typically, eg, having a height of 32 inches or more) and heavier (typically, eg, weighing about 35 pounds or more), as well as smaller and lighter travel rockers for portable use.

Some full-size swings may include a removable child support unit, eg, to allow the child carrier to be attached to and removed from the swing base structure. On such devices, the electronic controls for rocker movement and other features are usually provided on the rocker base structure, since it remains stationary and is therefore more accessible than moving or removable components, and avoids increasing intent The weight of the components used for portability.

Travel swings generally do not include a removable child support unit due to their small frame size and weight constraints. Therefore, previously known travel rockers generally only function as rockers and do not provide an alternative mode of use.

Seeking continuous development and improvement in the field of children's accessories.

Utility model content

The main object of the present invention is to provide an improved portable rocking device for children.

In an exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides a portable children's travel rocker device. The apparatus includes a rocker frame and a rocker configured to releasably attach to the rocker frame. In an exemplary embodiment, a magnetic drive or other means of propulsion is provided to rock the bouncer when mounted on the frame, and the bouncer is also configured to support and rock a child therein when the bouncer is removed from the frame. In this case, the device is able to switch between two modes of use, namely a rocker mode and a rocking chair mode.

In one aspect, the present invention relates to a rocker for children comprising a rocker frame and a rocker. The rocker frame preferably includes a first leg assembly and a second leg assembly connected by at least one frame hub. The rocker frame preferably also includes at least one rocker arm having a first end pivotally coupled to the at least one frame hub and a second end including a coupling bracket. The rocker preferably includes a seat, a rocker base to which the seat is attached, and a mounting hub for removably coupling with the coupling bracket of the rocker frame.

In another aspect, the present invention relates to a portable children's travel rocker, which includes a rocker frame and a rocking chair. The rocker frame preferably includes a first leg assembly and a second leg assembly. The first and second leg assemblies are preferably connected by at least one frame hub. The rocker frame also includes at least one rocker arm having a first end pivotally coupled to the at least one frame hub and a second end including a coupling bracket. The rocker preferably includes a seat, a rocker base to which the seat is attached, and a mounting hub for removably coupling with the coupling bracket of the rocker frame.

In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a portable child motion device comprising a base frame and a child support unit configured to be removably attached to the base frame. The child support unit is preferably operable to move in a coupled mode when attached to the base frame, and alternatively operable to move in an independent mode when detached from the base frame. The base frame includes a first leg assembly and a second leg assembly pivotally connected to each other by a first frame hub and a second frame hub , and further comprising a first swing arm and a second swing arm, each swing arm having a first end pivotally coupled to one of the first frame hub and the second frame hub.

In another aspect, the present invention relates to a rocking device for children, including a rocking device frame and a rocking chair. The rocker frame preferably includes a first leg assembly and a second leg assembly, the first leg assembly and the second leg assembly are preferably pivotably connected to each other by a first frame hub and a second frame hub connected whereby the rocker frame is collapsible from an expanded configuration for use to a compact configuration for portability. The rocker frame also preferably includes a first rocker arm and a second rocker arm, each rocker arm having a first end pivotably coupled to one of the first frame hub and the second frame hub, and including the second end of the first coupling part. The rocker preferably includes a support surface for receiving a child, a rocker base attached to the support surface and defining at least one arcuate rocking surface, and a second coupling for releasably engaging the first coupling portion of the rocking arm. department.

These and other aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will be understood with reference to the drawings and detailed description herein, and will be realized by the various elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following brief description of the accompanying drawings and detailed description of example embodiments are illustrative of example embodiments of the invention and not restrictive of the invention as claimed.

Description of drawings

1 is a perspective view of a 2-in-1 travel rocker with a removable rocker in a first mode of use of the rocker according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a front view of the rocker of FIG. 1 with a removable rocker.

3A , 3B and 3C illustrate side views of the rocker with removable rocker of FIG. 1 moving through a rocking range of motion according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

4 is a rear perspective view of the rocker unit of FIG. 1 with a removable rocker.

Figure 5 shows the rocker of Figure 1 with the removable rocker chair removed from the rocker frame and the rocker frame partially folded into a collapsed configuration.

6 is a top perspective view of the removable rocker in a rocking second mode of use independent of the rocker frame.

Figure 7 is a side view of the removable rocker in a rocking second mode of use independent of the rocker frame.

Figures 8 and 9 show the removable rocker folded into a collapsed configuration.

10A, 10B and 10C illustrate the folding sequence of the rocker frame according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

11A, 11B, 11C, and 11D illustrate an attachment sequence for coupling a removable rocker to a rocker frame, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 12A and 12B illustrate additional additions to a portion of the coupling and release mechanism for attaching and removing the removable rocker to and from the rocker frame in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. detail.

13 and 13A show additional details of the pivoting seat frame connection of the removable rocker portion of the travel rocker according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed ways

The present invention may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of example embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings forming a part of the disclosed technology. It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific devices, methods, conditions or parameters described and/or shown herein, and that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing specific embodiments by way of example only, and is not intended to It is intended to limit the claimed utility model. Any and all patents and other publications mentioned in this specification are hereby incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.

Likewise, as used in the specification, including the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural referents and references to a particular value include at least that particular value unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Happening. Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" or "approximately" one particular value and/or to "about" or "approximately" another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Likewise, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent "about," it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment.

Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views, FIGS. 1-13 illustrate a portable travel rocker and rocker apparatus 10 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The apparatus generally includes a rocker frame 30 and a removable rocker 60 configured to be attached to the rocker frame for a first mode of use and also configured to be detached from the rocker and independent of the rocker for a second mode of use. Device frame. In alternative embodiments, the removable assembly takes the form of a bouncer, slide, seat, or other child support device, for example, that provides bouncing, sliding, vibrating, or other types of motion.

In the depicted exemplary embodiment, the frame 30 comprises an A-frame with a front leg assembly 32 and a rear leg assembly 34, both pivotally connected at their upper ends to an upper frame hub 36. Each of the front leg assembly 32 and the rear leg assembly 34 includes a U-shaped assembly having first and second leg members, and a lower cross member extending between the lower ends of the leg members. Frame 30 may be made of plastic or aluminum tubing and/or other configuration materials. A lower frame brace member 40 extends between the lower cross members of the front leg assembly 32 and the rear leg assembly 34 . In the exemplary embodiment, lower frame bracket member 40 includes front and rear sections that are hingedly connected to each other at their inner ends and pivotally connected at their outer ends to a leg assembly lower cross member. Frame hub 36 and/or lower frame bracket member 40 optionally include a releasable locking mechanism to hold frame 30 in an unfolded or upright configuration ( FIGS. 1-4 ), or to allow the frame to be folded into a more compact fold or approximately Flat collapsed configuration (Fig. 5) for storage and transport. 10A, 10B and 10C illustrate the folding sequence of the rocker base frame 30 from the expanded or upright configuration (FIG. 10A) to the compact collapsed or collapsed configuration (FIG. 10C). As shown, the lower frame support member 40 optionally includes a handle or handle 41 extending from the inner end of one of the front or rear sections, with a handle configured for an adult caregiver's hand to pass through and grasp the handle. Opening for the hand section to fold and carry the frame. As shown with reference to FIG. 10C , in an exemplary embodiment, the handle 41 is offset a distance from the hinged connection between the front and rear sections of the lower frame support member 40 , and when the frame 30 is in its collapsed configuration, the handle is generally along the Positioned or proximally along a mid-plane or axis extending between the folded front leg assembly 32 and the rear leg assembly 34, and above the center of gravity of the folded frame 30, for balanced handling and portability . For example, a passive magnetic element 42 comprising a permanent magnet is preferably mounted at or adjacent to the middle portion of the lower frame support member 40 . In the exemplary embodiment, frame 30 does not include any active or powered electronics or drive components.

The frame 30 also includes a first swing arm 50 pivotally coupled to and depending downwardly from the upper frame hub 36 , and a second swing arm 52 . In the depicted exemplary embodiment, each swing arm 50, 52 also includes a coupling bracket 54 extending therefrom, for example extending obliquely rearwardly at an acute angle, and is optionally hingedly connected to the respective swing arm. A generally U-shaped crossbar 56 extends between coupling brackets on each swing arm 50, 52 to couple the movement of the swing arms together and/or to provide structural support. Optionally, crossbar 56 is configured to serve as a handle when frame 30 is folded. As best shown with reference to FIG. 2 , in the exemplary embodiment, the swing arms 50 , 52 are oriented inwardly, for example from the wider spacing between the upper ends of the swing arms at their connection points to the upper frame hub 36 The narrower spacing N between W to the lower end of the swing arm at coupling bracket 54 is curved or angled inwardly. The inward orientation of the rockers 50, 52 provides spacing between the inner edge of the leg assembly 32 of the rocker base frame 30 and the outer edge of the seat body 62 of the rocker 60, allowing an adult caregiver to easily Their hands are adapted for access to attach and remove the rocker 60 from the rocker base frame. Additionally, in the exemplary embodiment, upper frame hub 36 is relatively narrow (eg, no more than about 1.5 times the width of front leg assembly 32, more preferably no more than about 1.25 times the width of front leg assembly 32) to minimize the effect on the proximity between the frame and seat.

For ease of portability and transportation, in the exemplary embodiment, travel rocker and rocking chair apparatus 10 has an overall maximum height of less than about 30 inches, such as a height of about 25 inches to 28 inches or less. Additionally, in the exemplary embodiment, travel rocker and rocking chair apparatus 10 has an overall weight of about 30 pounds or less, such as about 15-20 pounds or less. In this manner, a parent or other adult caregiver can easily move the travel rocker and rocking chair apparatus 10 from room to room for use in a different location, load the unit into the trunk or storage area of the vehicle, And otherwise move and transport equipment easily. Additionally, in an example embodiment, a caregiver may lift and carry the travel rocker and rocker apparatus 10 with one hand, leaving the other hand free to carry a child or other object.

The rocker 60 generally includes a seat body 62 (eg, in the form of a plastic molding or fairing) including a seat frame portion 64 and a base frame portion 66 extending downwardly from the front of the seat frame portion. The seat frame portion holds a soft seat or support surface 70 for carrying a child, optionally including fabric slings or covers, bumpers and retaining straps or safety harnesses for attachment around a child seated therein. Optionally, as shown in more detail in FIG. 13 , a folded and/or spring-biased seat frame (eg, in the form of a pair of generally U-shaped retaining frame tubes 72, 74 ) is provided for seated The seat frame portion 64 internally engages a soft seat 70 and optionally allows the soft seat to be removed for cleaning or replacement. One or more splice retainers or other couplers 65 ( FIG. 13A ) are optionally provided for engaging the flexible frame tubes 72 , 74 with the seat frame 64 . The seat frame 64 optionally also defines a recessed peripheral edge 67 about the opening in which the frame tubes 72, 74 of the upholstery seat 70 fit for a flush and aesthetic fit.

The rocker 60 preferably also includes a rocker base 80 that includes first and second curved side rocker assemblies 82, 84 having convexly curved curved rocker surfaces, and a rocker transverse section connected between the distal ends of the side rocker assemblies. Member 86. The proximal ends of the first and second curved side rocker assemblies 82 , 84 are preferably coupled to the base frame portion 66 . First and second curved side rocker assemblies 82, 84 are optionally pivotally coupled to the base frame portion 66 to allow for rocker configurations in the unfolded (FIGS. 6 and 7) and generally flat, compact folded configurations (FIG. 8). and 9). A releasable locking mechanism with one or more release actuators 88 is optionally provided to allow the user to reconfigure the rocker base between the deployed configuration and the compact configuration. In the exemplary embodiment, two release actuators 88 are provided, one along each lateral side of the rocker 60, so that two-handed operation by an adult caregiver is required to fold the rocker to prevent the rocker from falling when a child is seated therein. Unintentional folding while in use. The release actuator 88 is preferably positioned away from the support surface 70 so that a child resting thereon cannot accidentally release the actuator.

The seat body 62 also preferably includes a mounting hub 100 along each side for removably coupling with the coupling bracket 54 of the rocker frame 30 . The release actuator 102 is operatively coupled to the mounting hub 100 . In the exemplary embodiment, two release actuators 102 are provided, one on each side of the rocker 60 , such that two-handed operation by an adult caregiver is required to remove the rocker 60 from the frame 30 . Optionally, the actuator 102 is operated to release the rocker 60 by squeezing the actuator 102 upward so that a continuous upward lifting motion of the adult caregiver by grasping the rocker by the seat body around the actuator can be utilized, And remove the rocking chair from the frame. In the exemplary embodiment, actuator 102 is generally positioned along or about the center of mass of seat body 62 such that rocker 60 is balanced when lifted therethrough. The actuator 102 is also preferably positioned below and away from the support surface 70 to prevent accidental operation of the actuator by a child resting thereon. 12A and 12B show additional details of the actuator according to an exemplary embodiment, wherein the outwardly deflected actuator portion 103 is pressed inwardly to retract the latch 105, and upon release, toward the Return outward to extend the latch. 11A-11D illustrate the sequence of attaching the rocker 60 to the base frame 30 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. A hook retainer 90 mounted at the head end on the underside of the seat body 62 engages with the free end of the crossbar 56 of the base frame 30 ( FIGS. 11A , 11B ). The mounting hub 100 of the rocker 60 engages with a corresponding receptacle of the coupling bracket 54 of the rocker base frame 30 (FIG. 11C). Lowering the rocker 60 onto the coupling bracket 54, the latches 105 of the rocker's actuator 102 releasably engage the cooperating coupling portion of the coupling bracket 54 to securely attach the rocker to the rocker base frame 30 ( Figure 11D). To remove the rocker 60 from the rocker base frame 30, the process is reversed by depressing the actuator 103 to release the latch 105 and lifting the rocker 60 off the coupling bracket 54 of the rocker base frame.

The rocking device and rocking chair apparatus 10 preferably also includes an electromagnetic drive system for automatically rocking the rocking chair 60 when mounted to the frame 30 . In the exemplary embodiment described, the magnetic drive system includes an electric drive assembly and an on-board power source (such as a battery provided on the rocker 60 ), such that the frame 30 is only non-energized and structural. In alternative embodiments, the drive system and/or other electrical features may be located on the frame or elsewhere. The magnetic drive system preferably includes an active electromagnetic coil or actuator mounted on a transverse bracket 110 extending between the first and second side rocker assemblies 82, 84 of the rocker base 80 of the rocker 60. When the rocker 60 is mounted on the rocker frame 30 and the rocker base 80 is extended (see FIGS. 3 and 4 ), the electromagnetic actuator 110 extends in close proximity to the passive magnetic element 42 of the rocker frame, causing the magnetic drive system to operate. to impart and/or maintain a rocking motion to the rocker and the child seated therein.

The seat body 62 of the rocker 60 optionally further includes additional onboard electronic controls and/or entertainment features. For example, a control board 120 is optionally provided along the front of the base frame portion 66 . For example, rocker 60 optionally includes electronic actuators for controlling sound and/or vibration transducers, speakers, music features, and/or light features disposed in or on the seat body; Switches, rocking speed, amplitude, and/or timers for controlling the rocking motion of the electromagnetic drive system. Incorporating the active drive components, power and/or electrical features and controls of the device 10 into the removable rocker 60 rather than the rocker base frame 30 allows for use of the rocker with the rocker base or separately from the rocker base frame. Operates electronic features and controls when used independently. A remote control device is optionally provided, for example in the form of a wireless (eg Bluetooth) remote control device or a Wi-Fi enabled mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet computer device. Optionally, music or voice is transmitted from the mobile device or remote control device to the speakers on the rocker 60 . Providing remotely controlled operation of electronic features is particularly advantageous in embodiments having the rocker 60 rather than onboard controls on the rocker base frame 30 because the rocker moves in use (whereas the base frame generally remains stationary in use), thereby As the rocker rocks or wobbles during use, the on-board controls present moving targets for manipulation. In a further exemplary embodiment, the electronic controls of device 10 may be remote only, rather than on-board (or have only minimal on-board controls), to reduce weight and cost.

The rocker and rocker apparatus 10 preferably provides two-in-one or dual-mode functionality, for example enabling use in a first “rocker” mode of use when the rocker 60 is mounted to the rocker frame 30, as a rocker apparatus (FIG. 1 -4), and enabling use in a second "rocker" mode of use of a stand-alone rocker when the rocker is removed from the rocker frame (Figures 6 and 7). In the rocker use mode, a child seated in the seat 70 of the rocker 60 is moved by a reciprocating rocking motion along a generally arcuate path passed by the rocker arms 52 around them and the upper mounting hub 36 of the rocker frame 30 is limited by the pivotal movement of the pivotal connection point, as indicated by the directional arrow S in FIG. 3 . In the rocker use mode, a child seated in the seat 70 of the rocker 60 is moved by a reciprocating rocking motion defined by the contact of the rocker arms 82, 84 along the underlying support surface, as indicated by directional arrow R in FIG. . The rocker 60 is attached to the rocker frame 30 for use in the rocker mode by coupling the mounting hub 100 of the rocker 80 to the coupling bracket 54 of the rocker frame by an adult caregiver. To remove the rocker 60 from the rocker frame 30 for use in rocker mode, the rocker is lifted away from the rocker by the caregiver releasing the rocker's mounting hub 100 from the rocker frame's coupling bracket 54 by actuating the release actuator 102. The rocker frame, and placing the rocker on a support surface that is not part of the rocker frame. When not in use, the rocker frame 30 can be folded into a generally flat compact configuration ( FIG. 5 ), and the rocker 60 can also be folded into a generally flat compact configuration ( FIG. 9 ) for compact storage and transportation. Both the rocker frame 30 and the rocker 60 are lightweight and configured for easy portability in travel applications.

Although the invention has been described with reference to the exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, additions and deletions fall within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims (23)

1. A portable children's rocking device, comprising: a rocker frame including a first leg assembly and a second leg assembly connected by at least one frame hub and at least one rocker arm, the a swing arm having a first end pivotably coupled to the at least one frame hub and a second end comprising a coupling bracket; and a rocker comprising a seat, a rocker base attached to the seat, and a mounting hub for removably coupling with the coupling bracket of the rocker frame, Wherein the rocker is operable in a first mode for rocking when mounted to the rocker frame and operable in a second mode of use for rocking when removed from the rocker frame. 2. The portable children's rocker of claim 1, further comprising a magnetic drive mechanism for imparting a rocking motion to the rocker when mounted to the rocker frame. 3. The portable children's rocker of claim 2, wherein substantially all of the energized components of the magnetic drive mechanism are mounted to the bouncer. 4. The portable children's rocker of claim 1, wherein at least one of the rocker frame and the rocker is collapsible from an expanded configuration to a compact configuration. 5. The portable children's rocking device of claim 1, wherein said rocker includes at least one remotely controlled electronic feature. 6. The portable children's rocker of claim 1, wherein said at least one rocker arm is oriented inwardly to provide operational clearance between said rocker frame and said rocker. 7. The portable children's rocker of claim 1, having a height of less than 30 inches and a weight of less than 25 pounds. 8. A portable child motion device comprising a base frame and a child support unit configured to be removably attached to the base frame, wherein the child support unit is operable to be attached to the the base frame is movable in a coupled mode, and wherein the child support unit is operable to move in an independent mode when detached from the base frame, Wherein, the base frame includes a first leg assembly and a second leg assembly, the first leg assembly and the second leg assembly are pivoted to each other by a first frame hub and a second frame hub and further comprising a first swing arm and a second swing arm, each swing arm having a first end pivotally coupled to one of the first frame hub and the second frame hub. 9. The portable child motion device of claim 8, wherein the child support unit rocks relative to the base frame in the coupled mode and rests on the support surface in the independent mode. Shake on. 10. The portable child motion device of claim 8, wherein at least one of the base frame and the child support unit is foldable from an expanded configuration for use to a compact configuration for portability . 11. The portable child motion device of claim 8, wherein the base frame and the child support unit are both collapsible from an expanded configuration for use to a compact configuration for portability. 12. The portable child motion device of claim 8, wherein the child support unit comprises a bouncer including a support surface for receiving a child and a bouncer base attached to the support surface. 13. The portable child motion device of claim 8, further comprising at least one electronic feature, said at least one electronic feature being part of said child support unit and configured when said child support unit is in said child support unit detachable from the base frame when in the freestanding mode. 14. The portable child motion device of claim 13, further comprising controls for said at least one electrical feature, said controls being onboard said child support unit, and/or part of a remote control separate from the child support unit and the base frame. 15. The portable child motion device of claim 8, having a height of less than 30 inches and a weight of less than 25 pounds. 16. A rocking device for children, comprising: a rocker frame comprising a first leg assembly and a second leg assembly pivotally connected to each other by a first frame hub and a second frame hub, by The rocker frame is collapsible from an expanded configuration for use to a compact configuration for portability, the rocker frame further comprising a first swing arm and a second swing arm each having a a first end portion pivotally coupled to one of the first frame hub and the second frame hub and a second end portion including the first coupling portion; and A rocker comprising a support surface for receiving a child, a rocker base attached to the support surface and defining at least one arcuate rocking surface, and a first coupling portion for releasably engaging the rocking arm. two coupling parts, wherein the rocker is operable in a rocking motion mode when attached to the rocker frame, and the rocker is operable in a rocking motion mode independently of the rocker frame when detached from the rocker frame operate. 17. The children's rocker of claim 16, further comprising an electromagnetic drive system for imparting a rocking motion of the rocker relative to the rocker frame. 18. The children's rocker of claim 17, wherein energized components of the electromagnetic drive system are mounted to the bouncer and passive components of the electromagnetic drive system are mounted to the swing frame. 19. The children's rocker of claim 16, further comprising at least one electronic feature, said at least one electronic feature being part of said bouncer and removable from said rocker frame. 20. The children's rocking device of claim 19, further comprising a control unit for said at least one electronic feature selected from an on-board control unit that is part of said rocker, a non- A remote control unit for a portion of the rocker or the rocker frame, and combinations thereof. 21. The children's rocker set forth in claim 16, wherein said bouncer base is hingedly attached to said support surface of said bouncer. 22. The children's rocker of claim 16, wherein said first rocker arm and said second rocker arm are inwardly oriented, defined at said frame hub in relation to said frame hub. A wider spacing between the first ends at the connection point of the swing arm and a narrower spacing between the second ends of the swing arm at the first coupling portion. 23. The children's rocker of claim 16, having a height of less than 30 inches and a weight of less than 25 pounds.