US20250024975A1

US20250024975A1 - Baby Brella Bib

Info

Publication number: US20250024975A1
Application number: US18/225,117
Authority: US
Inventors: Heather Watson
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2022-05-25
Filing date: 2023-07-22
Publication date: 2025-01-23

Abstract

The present invention is an apparatus installed underneath a highchair designed to catch food debris and objects that maybe pushed by an infant during feeding. The apparatus features a suction cup to maintain securement underneath the highchair, allowing infants to eat and drop debris without excessive cleanup. The proposed embodiment provides a unique experience for a user by providing an effective way to prevent objects dropped from the highchair from falling onto the floor.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to the earlier filed provisional application having Ser. No. 63/345,496, and hereby incorporates subject matter of the provisional application in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Art

The disclosure relates to a convenient apparatus for catching food debris while feeding babies and young children. The apparatus allows children to eat and drop food debris and other objects without excessive cleanup needed.

Discussion of the State of the Art

Small children are typically seated in infant chairs when eating, or drinking, or even at times when a parent or other caregiver wishes to have the child seated for reasons of safety. A baby may not have the motor skills to properly feed themselves without making a mess beneath their chair. Food and debris can drop onto the floor and require extensive cleaning, causing adults to constantly sweep and mop after each meal which can be frustrating for parents, babysitters, and other guardians. High chairs have been traditionally designed with trays upon which food, beverages, toys or other objects may be placed within reach of the child. An almost universal limitation of prior art infant chair designs is that children can drop objects such as food debris from the tray area. Accordingly, what is needed in the art is a novel manner of utilizing an apparatus that is integral for collecting debris as a result of a feeding an infant. What is further needed in the art is a novel apparatus that includes a collection area capable of catching food and other debris as it falls from a child's highchair. What is further needed in the art is a novel apparatus that allows users to easily store the apparatus in a convenient, compact storage carrier. The embodiment includes a plurality of suction cups that can attach to the highchair base and or the floor to catch debris while the apparatus remains secure in place. The proposed embodiment is further ideal because it reduces cleaning required after a child eats, preventing from having to sweep, mop, and or vacuum after each meal. It will be appreciated that the apparatus includes a panel surface a collection carriage that can be removed for easy cleaning of the apparatus.
The public is eager to welcome a method that would allow them to prevent a messy home environment by utilizing such a convenient apparatus.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus configured to catch objects that fall from an infant high chair. These objects may include food, toys, or any other object that are provided to an infant seated in the chair, or placed within reach of an infant, and which the infant may drop or cause to fall. Accordingly, the inventor has conceived, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, a convenient apparatus for catching debris beneath a highchair in a more efficient manner. The embodiment is an apparatus in which some portions of it is made of a fabric that is positioned underneath a highchair designed to catch food and other debris while feeding and infant and young children. It is another object of the present invention to provide a portable, easy to install, and lightweight apparatus configured to catch objects that fall from an infant highchair, or which are dropped by an infant seated in the chair.
In one embodiment the invention comprises a body comprising a panel surface upon which objects fall. The panel surface further comprises of means for coupling to the chair in order to support the body and maintain it in place during use. In some embodiments, the panel surface can be constructed from flexible and/or waterproof material in order to prevent liquids from spilling on the areas surrounding the chair.
Thus, the invention provides an infant chair catch apparatus for catching objects that may fall from an infant highchair. As a result of the increased coverage the apparatus will be ideal because it aims to collect all food debris and other objects dropped by an infant.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

The accompanying drawings illustrate several embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention according to the embodiments. It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the particular embodiments illustrated in the drawings are merely exemplary and are not to be considered as limiting of the scope of the invention or the claims herein in any way.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the apparatus being used as a child eats in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the apparatus as food items fall on the apparatus rather than the floor in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the highchair assembled to the apparatus, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a close-up view of the removable collection carriage detached from the apparatus, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of how the panel surface fabric securely fits along the chair legs in a snug fit, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a top view of the panel surface, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The inventor has conceived, an apparatus for monitoring and tracking the use of spa products during normal use.
The terms “a” or “an”, as used herein, are defined as one, or more than one. The term “plurality”, as used herein, is defined as two, or more than two. The term “another”, as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms “including” and/or “having”, as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The term “coupled”, as used herein, is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically.
Reference throughout this document to “one embodiment”, “certain embodiments”, “an exemplary embodiment” or similar terms means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearances of such phrases or in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments without limitation. One or more of the inventions may be widely applicable to numerous embodiments, as may be readily apparent from the disclosure. In general, embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice one or more of the inventions, and it should be appreciated that other embodiments may be utilized and that structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the particular inventions. Accordingly, one skilled in the art will recognize that one or more of the inventions may be practiced with various modifications and alterations. Particular features of one or more of the inventions described herein may be described with reference to one or more particular embodiments or figures that form a part of the present disclosure, and in which are shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments of one or more of the inventions. It should be appreciated, however, that such features are not limited to usage in the one or more particular embodiments or figures with reference to which they are described. The present disclosure is neither a literal description of all embodiments of one or more of the inventions nor a listing of features of one or more of the inventions that must be present in all embodiments.
Reference throughout this document to “suction cup mechanism”, “cup” or similar terms means a mechanism that provides stability of the attaching to the bottom of the highchair or an removable collection carriage while in use. Thus, the appearances of such phrases or in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.
Reference throughout this document to “panel surface” or similar terms means a structure that is designed to catch debris and other objects as it falls underneath the highchair. Thus, the appearances of such phrases or in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.
Materials described or referenced herein will sometimes be described in singular form for clarity. However, it should be appreciated that particular embodiments may include multiple instantiations of a material unless noted otherwise. Surfaces in some embodiments can be understood as representing segments or portions of those embodiments. Alternate implementations are included within the scope of embodiments of the present invention would be understood by those having ordinary skill in the art. In an additional embodiment, the apparatus may include a variety of different configurations, by example, Velcro® attachments can be used for the attachment for various straps.
Headings of sections provided in this patent application and the title of this patent application are for convenience only and are not to be taken as limiting the disclosure in any way. A description of an embodiment with several components in connection with each other does not imply that all such components are required.
The embodiment is directed generally to an apparatus for catching food debris while feeding babies and young children. Baby Brella Bib is ideally designed as an apparatus positioned under an adjacent highchair. The embodiment further comprises at least 4 expandible holes that receives the legs of the highchair in a snug manner. The apparatus further includes at least one suction cup mechanism that can be attached to a collection carriage or the top of an adjustable assembly rod in a manner to secure the apparatus to the bottom of the highchair and the floor to catch debris while the apparatus remains secured in place. The collection carriage that can be removed for easy cleaning of the apparatus.
To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, the following description and annexed drawings set forth certain illustrative aspects and implementations. These are indicative of but a few of the various ways in which one or more aspects may be employed. Other aspects, advantages, and novel features of the disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the annexed drawings.
The claimed subject matter is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the claimed subject matter. It may be evident, however, that the claimed subject matter may be practiced without these specific details. Various structures and/or features are not necessarily drawn to scale. In other instances, structures and features are shown in two-dimensional diagram form in order to facilitate describing the claimed subject matter.
With reference to the attached figures, as illustrated in FIG. 1 , the apparatus shown enables young children to eat without making a mess on the floor due to consistent food and beverage spills. The apparatus includes a panel surface 2 made of a washable, non-porous fabric. The panel surface 2 is further coated with an effective antimicrobial material. The attachment has a collection area 5 that will be used to collect and dispose of debris or crumbs from the highchair 3 as the child eats. The panel surface 2 is designed with at least 4 secure apertures 10 a, 10 b, 10 c, 10 d that receive the chair legs, the apertures 10 a, 10 b, 10 c, 10 d is furthermore designed to include elastic material in a manner to have a snug fit along the diameter surface of each chair leg. This snug fit will allow the embodiment to prevent a large deposit of food and other objects from escaping the collection area 5. Users can easily discard of the debris from the apparatus and clean it rather than spending time sweeping and mopping the floor by removing the collection carriage 4. Debris can be dumped directly into a trash receptacle by removing the collection carriage 4 and manually dispose of the debris. The adjustable assembly rod is designed to retract or extend to accommodate varying heights for highchairs. When not in use, the apparatus can be compacted and stored in a carrying case or other desired areas. Accordingly, the apparatus will be available in several sizes, colors, and designs. Exact size, measurement, construction, and design specifications may vary upon further development and manufacturing. It will be appreciated, however, that the embodiment can be designed in various widths and lengths if necessary. As illustrated in FIG. 2 , a perspective view of the embodiment includes various images of how the apparatus can be secured in a stored position 2 d. The first image 2 a. depicts the apparatus in an open position. The depiction 2 a further shows a plurality of rib assemblies 2 e, 2 f, 2 g, 2 h, 2 i, 2 j, 2 k, 21 evenly designed along the collection area 5 of the panel surface 2. FIG. 2 a also includes a ring 4 for receiving the adjustable assembly rod 2 m and a first suction cup 2 n. 2 c shows the apparatus in a slightly opened position to be prepared for storage 2 d while not in use. A second retaining strap will be made out of a hook and loop fastener material. The apparatus is depicted in a completely compacted position stored in a compact storage carrier 8. In FIG. 3 , the fabric area adjoins to the legs 3 a, 3 b, 3 c, 3 d of a highchair 3 or the floor via the suction cup mechanism 4. In a non-limiting example, the embodiment will be made from material such as microbial material, silicone, polymer, wicking material that is known in the art that can be wiped clean. As shown in FIG. 4 , a close-up perspective-view of the embodiment revealing the lower interior surface of the collection area of the apparatus. The collection carriage is designed to include an optional protruded orifice 15 with threads for receiving a threaded male end of an adjustable assembly rod that is positioned vertically between the highchair seat and collection carriage when in use. The drawing further shows how the food and other debris is captured by the collection carriage 4. The apparatus will be manufactured to be adjustable in length with varying materials that can be easily wiped clean depending on surrounding conditions. Further as shown in FIG. 5 , shows how a chair leg is inserted and secured through an aperture upon assembly. The depiction also shows how the panel surface 2 is fully opened in a position to catch food debris. The chair leg is further shown inserted into an aperture and secured utilizing a first strap 12. The first retaining strap 12 is designed with a hook and loop fastener to securely hold the chair leg in place. A second hook and loop strap member 13 is designed along the second retaining strap for enwrapping the fabric of the panel surface 2 when conveniently storing the apparatus. The depiction shows a plurality of rib assemblies located along the collection area 5 of the panel surface 2 for support of the fabric material during opening and closing. In a non-limiting example, an additional tying means such as a fastening belt, hook loop fastener or the like as formed on the fabric of the panel surface 2 may be provided for tying and fastening the fabric. The ring mechanism 14 is attached to the lower apex portion of the panel surface 2. FIG. 6 , shows a top view of the collection area 5 to include a plurality of apertures (6 a, 6 b, 6 c, 6 d) and the removable collection carriage 4.
By way of example, one or more portions of the embodiment can have a desired material thickness while one or more other portions may have a different desired thickness. For example, similar or varying thicknesses can yield a desired balance of weight, flexibility, elasticity, stiffness, resiliency, and durability.
Although the disclosure has been shown and described with respect to one or more implementations, equivalent alterations and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art based upon a reading and understanding of this specification and the annexed drawings. The disclosure includes all such modifications and alterations and is limited only by the scope of the following claims. In particular regard to the various functions performed by the above described components (e.g., elements, resources, etc.), the terms used to describe such components are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any component which performs the specified function of the described component (e.g., that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs the function in the herein illustrated exemplary implementations of the disclosure.
The skilled person will be aware of a range of possible modifications of the various embodiments described above. Accordingly, the present invention is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An apparatus for catching food debris comprising:

A plurality of suction cups; wherein plurality of suction cups are made of material known in the art, an adjustable assembly rod, wherein the assembly rod includes a first suction cup and an opposite threaded end, a ring; a panel surface, wherein panel surface is placed beneath a highchair and further designed with a plurality of apertures to receive a plurality of highchair legs, a removable collection carriage; wherein collection carriage is designed to receive various debris while in use, wherein removable collection carriage includes a second suction cup along the bottom surface of the removable collection carriage and a threaded female portion protruding from the inner surface of the removable collection carriage, a first hook and loop fastener; wherein the first hook and loop fastener is used to retain the panel during storage, a second hook and loop fastener;

wherein the second hook and loop fastener is used to secure the panel surface to the chair legs when the chair legs are installed in a plurality of apertures in said panel material, rib assemblies, and

a compact storage carrier; wherein storage carrier can receive the apparatus for storage.

2. An apparatus as defined in claim 1, wherein said adjustable assembly rod is insertable in the ring.

3. An apparatus as defined in claim 2, wherein said adjustable assembly rod will be designed to be detachably mounted to the collection carriage, and further made to be adjustable in length.

4. An apparatus as defined in claim 1, wherein at least one or more layers of said panel surface has an effective amount of antimicrobial material incorporated throughout said layers.

5. An apparatus as defined in claim 1, wherein said plurality of apertures are designed in an elastic material to securely fit a diameter of said chair legs.

6. An apparatus as defined in claim 3, wherein said at least one or more layers are coated from the group consisting of: oligodynamic materials, such as silver, zinc, titanium and gold, triclosan, silane, fluorescent material, dextran sulfate, halogen releasing agents, extract of blue green algae, antimicrobial polymers, and any combinations thereof.