US20120111384A1

US20120111384A1 - Protective cover for a stroller

Info

Publication number: US20120111384A1
Application number: US13/136,300
Authority: US
Inventors: Suzanne Hanks; Michael Edward Foster
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2010-07-27
Filing date: 2011-07-27
Publication date: 2012-05-10

Abstract

The present invention is a cover for a stroller. The preferred embodiment of the cover comprises a first panel having a top edge, first and second side edges and a bottom edge. The top edge of the first panel has a curved profile and the bottom edge has a straight profile. A second panel of the cover has a top end, first and second side ends and a bottom end. The first side end of the second panel is sewn to a left side of the bottom edge of the first panel. The second side end of the second panel is sewn to a right side of the bottom edge of the first panel. The cover preferably comprises a pocket and an opening between the first and second panels to slip over a stroller handle. The cover also has a mesh panel for ventilation and fasteners to configure the panels.

Description

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/368,191, filed Jul. 27, 2010, which is expressly incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF INVENTION

At least one feature of the invention pertains to covers for strollers.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

Babies and small children enjoy going for walks in strollers. Such walks are beneficial in many ways to not only the child but also to the caregivers. These walks not only stimulate and provide socialization to the child; they also provide caregivers with needed exercise. Unfortunately, problems with the weather, such as sun, rain and wind, as well as insects, can limit the ability of caregivers taking children for walks.
One way that caregivers have tried to overcome these problems is by draping a blanket over the stroller. Although this provides more shade to the child, the blanket tends to come loose and fall off resulting in the caregiver frequently having to rearrange it. If the blanket does fall off, it can get caught in the wheels of the stroller or the caregiver can trip over it. In addition to having to re-arrange the blanket to prevent it from falling off, the blanket must also be re-arranged whenever the angle of the sun changes. For example, if the caregiver is not walking in a straight path and is frequently turning corners, the cover may need to be re-arranged often. The blanket also blocks the child's view and limits ventilation provided to the child, causing the inside of the stroller to become unbearably hot in hot weather.
Another way that has been used to overcome these problems is by using a stroller that has a large fabric sunshade. Although these sunshades provide more shade, they also block the child's view. In addition to blocking the child's view, these sunshades do not protect the entire body of the child, often leaving the feet and legs exposed to the sun, rain, wind and insects. Furthermore, these sunshades do not extend sufficiently to make a dark enclosure within which a child can nap. However, since the fabric blocks circulation, such an enclosure can quickly become unbearably hot in hot weather.
Consequently, a cover for a stroller, which alleviates the problems inherent in conventional stroller covers as described, previously is needed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The objects and features of the present invention, which are believed to be novel, are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. The present invention, both as to its organization and manner of operation, together with further objects and advantages, may best be understood by reference to the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying figures.

FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the invention installed on a stroller;

FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of the invention installed on a stroller;

FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of another preferred embodiment of the invention installed on a stroller;

FIG. 4A is a side view of a preferred embodiment of a first pattern for components of the invention;

FIG. 4B is a side view of a preferred embodiment of a second pattern for components of the invention;

FIG. 4C is a top view of a preferred embodiment of a third pattern for components of the invention;

FIG. 4D is a top view of a preferred embodiment of a fourth pattern for components of the invention;

FIG. 5 is a side perspective view of a preferred embodiment of components cut using the first and third patterns;

FIG. 6 is a side perspective view of a preferred embodiment of components cut using the first and third patterns;

FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the first and second panels attached together;

FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the first and second panels attached together;

FIG. 9 is a side perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the first and second panels attached together;

FIG. 10 is a close up view of FIG. 9 showing fasteners for controlling the configuration of the invention;

FIG. 11 is a close up view of FIG. 9 showing fasteners for controlling the configuration of the invention;

FIG. 12 is a close up view of a panel showing fasteners for controlling the configuration of the invention;

FIG. 13 is a close up view of FIG. 9 showing fasteners for controlling the configuration of the invention;

FIG. 14 is a close up view of FIG. 9 showing pockets on the invention;

FIG. 15 is a perspective top view of an alternative embodiment of the invention with a fire truck design that is not installed on a stroller;

FIG. 16 is a side perspective view of the FIG. 15 embodiment of the invention that is not installed on a stroller;

FIG. 17 is a side perspective view of the FIG. 15 embodiment of the invention that is not installed on a stroller;

FIG. 18 is a side perspective view of the FIG. 15 embodiment of the invention that is not installed on a stroller;

FIG. 19 is a close up view of FIG. 15 showing the mesh;

FIG. 20 is a close up view of FIG. 18 showing a pocket;

FIG. 21 is a close up view of a pocket member secured to the second panel;

FIG. 22 is a close up view of another pocket member secured to the first panel;

FIG. 23 is a close up view of fastening members;

FIG. 24 is a rear perspective view of another embodiment of the invention installed on a stroller;

FIG. 25 is a front perspective view of the FIG. 24 embodiment installed on a stroller and opened;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the FIG. 15 embodiment installed on a stroller; and,

FIG. 27 is a side perspective view of another alternative embodiment with a college insignia and mascot.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following detailed description is of the best currently contemplated modes of carrying out the invention. The description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the invention.
In one aspect, a one piece slip on stroller cover is provided. The one piece slip on stroller cover may be comprised of one or more panels or fabric pieces cut out from patterns and sewn or attached together. The stroller cover allows children to ride in comfort and style while being protected from the elements, such as sunlight, wind and rain, as well as from insects.
In another aspect, the stroller cover may include fastening means (or a lift and snap feature) that allows children to see the world while still being shielded from the elements. Furthermore, pocket members may be integrally attached to the stroller cover for convenience and extra storage for the caregiver. The novel stroller cover of the present invention not only stays in place but is also easy to install by simply slipping it over the handlebar of any stroller. The cover may also include a piece of mesh material to ensure that proper ventilation is maintained within the stroller, under the cover.
In yet another aspect, the one piece slip on stroller cover may be utilized for any type of stroller, including, but not limited to, a single stroller, a side-by-side double stroller, a tandem double stroller, a side-by-side-by-side triple stroller and a tandem triple stroller. The same patterns, as described below in more detail, may be utilized for creating the covers for each of these strollers. The only difference being that for the tandem (or front and back) stroller is that the cover is longer in length for the front and back and for the side-by-side strollers, the cover is wider.
In yet another aspect, the outer design of each stroller cover may be uniquely designed or customized for the purchaser. As shown in the accompanying figures, different artwork and/or logos may be utilized for the stroller covers. For example, the stroller cover may reflect, for example, a particular company, a particular sport, a particular sports team and a particular school.
FIGS. 1-2 are photographs of perspective views of covers 100 a, 100 b (hereinafter collectively referred to as “100”) for a stroller 102 in an installed position, according to one aspect of the invention. FIG. 3 illustrates a back view of another cover 100 c for the stroller 102 in an installed position. The stroller 102 may be of conventional design and has a first side 102 a, a second side 102 b, a handle end 102 c and a wheel end 102 d.
The cover 100 may generally comprise one or more panels or fabric pieces sewn or attached together. According to one aspect, patterns (or templates) may be utilized to create all of the panels for the cover 100. For example, a first pattern (or template) 104, shaped with a top edge 106, sides 108, 110 and a bottom edge 112 (see FIG. 4A); and a third pattern (or template) 126 having a generally square or rectangular shape (see FIG. 4C) may be utilized. The top edge 106 of the first pattern 104 may be curved while the bottom edge 112 of the first pattern may be straight. In one aspect, the first pattern 104 may comprise of one or more sections 114-122. One section may be for cutting a mesh material 118 which provides for ventilation to the child, provides security so that a caregiver can see the child and also allows the child to see out. The mesh material 118 may be generally rectangular in shape and extend, parallel to the top edge 106, from the first side 108 of the first panel 104 to the second side 110 of the first panel. Although the first pattern 104 is shown comprising five (5) sections, this is by way of example only.
In one aspect, a second pattern 124 may be provided for a first panel liner for the first panel. FIG. 4B shows the second pattern 124 for creating the first panel liner, having the same shape, although a tiny bit smaller than the first pattern 104. The panel liner may be used as an underlining, which is a backing to the first panel to help preserve the shape of the first panel and prevent stretching and wrinkling of the fabric.
The third pattern 126, as described above, may generally be a square or rectangular shape. In one aspect, the third pattern 126 may comprise of one or more sections 128-132. For example, the third pattern 126 may include a main section 128 and side sections 130 and 132. Although the third pattern 126 is shown comprising three (3) sections, this is by way of example only.
In one aspect, a fourth pattern 134 may be provided for a second panel liner for the second panel. FIG. 4D shows the fourth pattern 134 having the same shape, although a tiny bit smaller than the third pattern 126. The second panel liner may be used as an underlining, which is a backing to the second panel to help preserve the shape of the second panel and prevent stretching and wrinkling of the fabric.
FIGS. 5 and 6 show examples panels 134, 136 which may be cut out of fabric using the first and third patterns (or templates) 104, 126, respectively, laid flat in an unassembled position. As with the first pattern 104, the first panel 134 may comprise a top edge 138, side edges 140, 142 and a bottom edge 144 where the top edge 138 may be curved and the bottom edge 144 may be straight. As with the third pattern 126, the second panel 136 may have a generally square or rectangular shape with a top end 146, side ends 148, 150 and a bottom end 152.
FIGS. 7 and 8 show an example of an assembled cover 154, i.e. the first and second panels sewn together. When assembling the cover 154, the first side end 148 of the second panel 136 may be sewn to left most side 144 a of the bottom edge 144 of the first panel 134 while the second side end 150 of the second panel 136 may be secured to the right most side 144 b of the bottom edge 144 of the first panel 134. The panels may also be attached by any other suitable means, such as snaps, buttons, ties and zippers. The top end 146 of the second panel 136 may remain unattached to the bottom edge 144 of the first panel 134 creating an opening 154 for slipping over the handle of a stroller. (See FIG. 3) That is, when the cover is installed on a stroller, the handle end of the stroller may be inserted through the opening 154.
FIG. 9 shows an example of the first side end 148 of the second panel 136 secured to left most side 144 a of the bottom edge 144 of the first panel 134. According to one aspect, the cover may include one or more pockets for storage. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 14, a pocket member 156 may be attached to the first panel 134 and a pocket member 158 may be attached to the second panel 136. The pockets members 156, 158 may be stitched to the first and second panels, respectively. The pocket members 156, 158 may be sized to accommodate books, diapers, wipes, bottles, clothing, keys, purse or any other item carried by someone caring for a child. As shown in FIG. 24, a top piece 159, having a snap for securing the top piece 159 to the pocket member, may cover the opening of the pocket member 158 for keeping items from falling out of the pocket.
According to one aspect, a front portion of the cover may be adjustable to control the amount of light and air reaching the child. For example, the cover may include one or more fastening means, such as snaps, for retaining the front portion of the cover in an up position allowing more light and/or air into the stroller. The fastening means may include a first fastener 160 located on an inner portion of the cover (See FIGS. 10-11 and 13) and one or more fasteners second fastener 162 a-162 c located on an outer perimeter of the top edge of the first panel of the cover (See FIG. 12). The front of the cover may be lifted up and secured in place joining the first fastener 160 and one of the second fasteners 162 a-162 c. For example, when lifting up the front of the cover, the caregiver may (1) select to lift up one side by securing the first fastener 160 to the second fastener 162 a; (2) select to lift up the other side by securing the first fastener 160 to the second fastener 162 c; or (3) select to lift up the center portion of the front by securing the first fastener 160 to the second fastener 162 b (see FIG. 25). The fastening means may include, but is not limited to, snaps, buttons, ties and hook and loop fasteners (such as sold under the name Velcro®) allowing the a portion front of the cover to be lifted upwards and securely stowed in place. As a result, a child in the stroller may be able to see the world while still being shielded from the weather.
Materials which may comprise the cover 100 may include, but are not limited to, fleece, cotton, flannel or any other natural or synthetic material suitable for a cover on a stroller. In any embodiment, the material may be washable and may be treated with an organic or synthetic bacteria-resistant compound.
FIG. 15 shows a top perspective view of another example of a cover 200 for a stroller laid flat in an uninstalled position, according to the present invention.
FIG. 16 shows a side perspective view of the cover 200 of FIG. 15 laid flat in an uninstalled position, according to the present invention.
FIG. 17 shows a side perspective view of the cover 200 of FIG. 15 folded and laid flat an uninstalled position, according to the present invention.
FIG. 18 shows another side perspective view of the cover 200 of FIG. 15 folded and laid flat an uninstalled position, according to the present invention.
FIG. 19 shows a close up view of the mesh in the cover 200 of FIG. 15, according to the present invention.
FIG. 20 shows a close up view of the pocket member in FIG. 18.
FIG. 21 shows a close up view of a pocket member secured to the second panel of cover 200.
FIG. 22 shows a close up view of another pocket member secured to the first panel of cover 200.
FIG. 23 shows a close up view of fastening members of the cover 200 for adjusting the amount of light and air reaching.
FIG. 26 shows a perspective view of the cover of FIG. 15 slipped on a stroller.
FIG. 27 shows an example of a cover, slipped on a stroller, having a sports theme.
Advantageously, a stroller cover according to aspects of the invention as described previously provides a child protection from the weather as well as insects. Furthermore, the stroller cover according to aspects of the invention is constructed to provide a light-weight one-piece slip on cover for any type of stroller.
While certain exemplary embodiments have been described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments are merely illustrative of and not restrictive on the broad invention, and that this invention is not to be limited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown and described, since various other modifications may occur to those ordinarily skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A cover for a stroller, comprising:

a first panel having a top edge, first and second side edges and a bottom edge, the top edge having a curved profile and the bottom edge have a straight profile;

a second panel having a top end, first and second side ends and a bottom end;

wherein the first side end of the second panel is sewn to a left side of the bottom edge of the first panel; and

wherein the second side end of the second panel is sewn to a right side of the bottom edge of the first panel.

2. The cover of claim 1, further comprising an opening, the opening located between the unsecured top end of the second panel and the bottom edge of the first panel.

3. The cover of claim 2, wherein the opening slips over a handle of a stroller.

4. The cover of claim 1, further comprising a pocket member attached to the first panel.

5. The cover of claim 1, further comprising a pocket member attached to the second panel.

6. The cover of claim 1, further comprising an elongated mesh portion located in the first panel allowing for ventilation.

7. The cover of claim 1, further comprising fastening means for adjusting a front portion of the cover to control light and air reaching inside a stroller.

8. The cover of claim 7, wherein the fastening means includes a first fastener located on an inner portion of the first panel and one or more second fasteners located on an outer perimeter of the top edge of the first panel.

9. The cover of claim 8, wherein one of the one or more second fasteners is secured to the first fastener lifting the front portion of the cover in an upwardly direction.

10. The cover of claim 9, wherein the fastening means are snaps.