WO2025111319A1

WO2025111319A1 - Bassinet with adjustable legs to enable or disable sleeping surface

Info

Publication number: WO2025111319A1
Application number: PCT/US2024/056627
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jonathan M. Pacella; Lance J. Clemmer; Andrew J. Taylor; Curtis M. Hartenstine; Peter R. Tuckey; Jonathan K. Mountz; Herbert E. HOFFMAN
Original assignee: Wonderland Switzerland AG
Current assignee: Wonderland Switzerland AG
Priority date: 2023-11-21
Filing date: 2024-11-20
Publication date: 2025-05-30
Anticipated expiration: 2026-05-21
Also published as: TW202521042A

Abstract

A bassinet assembly that provides a primary/use mode when used in a conventional/proper manner for infant sleep and one or more secondary modes when the bassinet assembly is converted in other manner(s). The secondary modes may include a seat mode and/or an unusable (disabled) mode. The secondary mode can be attained automatically in response to a user retracting legs of the bassinet assembly.

Description

BASSINET WITH ADJUSTABLE LEGS TO ENABLE OR DISABLE SLEEPING SURFACE

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/555,977 filed February 21, 2024, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/601,562 filed November 21, 2023 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/601,833 filed November 22, 2023, which are incorporated by reference as if fully set forth.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a bassinet assembly, including features and aspects of a bassinet assembly for mounting to another structure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Approximately 3,500 infants die from sleep-related infant deaths annually in the United States. Research indicates that sleep-related death can occur when an infant with an intrinsic vulnerability to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is placed in an unsafe sleep environment. There was a substantial decline in the number of sleep -related infant deaths in the 1990’s as the result of a national educational campaign to put babies on their backs to sleep; however, the number of sleep-related infant deaths has remained consistent since the year 2000. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that parents sleep in the same room, but not in the same bed as a baby, preferably for at least the first six months. The AAP understands and respects that many parents choose to routinely bed share for a variety of reasons, including facilitation of breastfeeding, cultural preferences, and a belief that it is better and safer for their infant. However, the AAP is unable to recommend bed sharing under any circumstances. Bed sharing can lead to placing a bassinet or other baby bedding on the adult bed itself which could pose an entrapment or asphyxiation concern for the child.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for a versatile and safe child sleeping device, such as a bassinet, that can be used in an elevated position, such as being positioned next to, mounted to, or otherwise securely supported on/adjacent the parent’s bed, to aid in a safe sleeping environment for infants and babies alike. In addition, there is a need for an alternative to sleeping with the baby or baby-in-bassinet directly on the bed. There is also a need for a means to prevent improper use of a bassinet directly on a bed or other unstable surface.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Bassinets generally include any type of enclosed structure that allows an infant to sleep or rest in close proximity to a caregiver. Bassinets essentially include some sort of support structure and an enclosure that typically includes some sort of soft support surface for the infant.

[0006] It is advantageous for a bassinet to be removable or detachable from a bassinet frame or other support structure. However, once a bassinet has been removed, a user may decide to use the bassinet improperly in a manner that may risk injury to an infant (e.g., placing the bassinet on an unstable surface such as a couch cushion). Other concerns include the placement and use of a bassinet on a narrow or unstable surface. There is also a need for a bassinet to have a wider footprint when used separately from a playard or stand to enhance stabihty.

[0007] The foregoing needs are met by a bassinet assembly that provides a primary use mode when used in a conventional/proper manner for infant sleep and one or more secondary modes when the bassinet assembly is converted in other manner(s). The secondary modes may include a seat mode and an unusable mode. The secondary mode can be attained automatically in response to a user retracting legs of the bassinet assembly, for example.

[0008] According to one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a bassinet assembly comprising a bassinet including a base, an upper rail, sidewalls extending between the upper rail and the base, and a sleeping surface, and a retractable leg assembly configured to support the base. The retractable leg assembly includes at least one leg that is movable between an extended position and a retracted position. When the retractable leg assembly is retracted, the sleeping surface of the bassinet is converted from a primary sleeping mode to a secondary mode.

[0009] The secondary mode can include the sleeping surface folded to a seat shape. The leg assembly can support the sleeping surface in the position of the secondary mode. The secondary mode can include the sleeping surface folded to disable use of the sleeping surface for supporting an infant. A portion of the leg assembly can extend through the base when retracted. The leg assembly can includes at least two legs, and at least a portion of at least one of the legs can extend into an interior of the bassinet and displace the sleeping surface when the leg assembly is retracted. The sleeping surface can be supported on the base and includes a first portion and a second portion, and the first portion can be displaceable independently from the second portion. The first and second portions of the sleeping surface can be connected to the base by a hinge. A first leg of the at least two legs can be configured to displace the first portion of the sleeping system a first amount upward from the base, and a second leg of the at least two legs can be configured to displace the second portion of the sleeping surface a second amount upward from the base. The first amount can be different than the second amount such that the first portion is oriented at a first non-horizontal angle and the second portion is oriented at a second nonhorizontal angle that is different than the first non-horizontal angle. The first leg can extend into the interior of the bassinet a first distance when retracted, and the second leg can extend into the interior of the bassinet a second distance when retracted, and the first distance is greater than the second distance. At least one of the at least two legs can be configured to telescope through the base.

[0010] In accordance with another aspect, a bassinet comprises a sleeping surface, a mount for attaching the bassinet to a support structure and a leg assembly movable between a stowed position and a deployed position, the deployed position providing the legs spaced apart wider than in the stowed position.

[0011] The stowed position can provide the legs substantially within an envelope of the sleeping surface. The deployed position can provide the leg assembly with at least 24 inches of width. The leg assembly can automatically move to the deployed position when the mount of the bassinet is removed from a support structure. The bassinet can include an upper rail and side walls extending from the upper rail supporting a sleeping surface, and the leg assembly can be coupled to the upper rail. The leg assembly can include first and second legs attached to opposite sides of the upper rail. The first and second legs can be at least one of u-shape or t- shape. The first and second legs can each include at least one engagement member for engaging a support structure when the leg assembly is in the stowed position. The leg assembly can include four independently movable legs coupled to the upper rail, each of the four independently movable legs can be configured to be oriented parallel to the upper rail when the leg assembly is in the stowed position. When the leg assembly is in the stowed position, the sleeping surface of the bassinet can be disabled for use as a sleeping surface unless the mount is attached to a support structure.

[0012] In accordance with another aspect, a bassinet comprises an upper rail, side walls extending downwardly from the upper rail supporting a sleeping surface, and first and second mounts on opposite sides of the upper rail for attaching the bassinet to a support structure. The first and second mounts include a leg for supporting the bassinet in a standalone use position, and the leg extends downward and is coextensive with a majority of a height of the sidewalls.

[0013] The leg of at least one of the first or second mounts can be t-shape. The bassinet assembly can further include a protruding structure mounted to the upper rail between the first and second mounts. The protruding structure can include a storage console.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The foregoing Summary as well as the following Detailed Description will be best understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings, which illustrate embodiments of the disclosure. In the drawings:

[0015] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an exemplary bassinet assembly in accordance with the present disclosure in a first primary/use mode. [0016] FIG. IB is a perspective view of the bassinet assembly of FIG. 1A in a secondary/disabled mode.

[0017] FIG. 2A is a cutaway view of the bassinet assembly of FIG. 1A.

[0018] FIG. 2B is another cutaway view of the bassinet assembly of FIG. 1A.

[0019] FIG. 2C is an enlarged portion of FIG. 2B

[0020] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the bassinet assembly of FIG. 1A in a secondary/use mode.

[0021] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of another exemplary bassinet assembly in accordance with the present disclosure in a first primary/use mode.

[0022] FIG. 4B is a perspective view of the exemplary bassinet assembly of FIG.

4B in a second primary/use mode prior to mounting on a playard.

[0023] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the bassinet assembly if FIG. 4A.

[0024] FIG. 5B is an enlarged portion of FIG. 5A with some aspects removed to show a hub/pivot assembly of the bassinet assembly in a first position.

[0025] FIG. 5C is a perspective view of the bassinet assembly if FIG. 4B.

[0026] FIG. 5D is an enlarged portion of FIG. 5C with some aspects removed to show a hub/pivot assembly of the bassinet assembly in a second position.

[0027] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the exemplary bassinet assembly of FIG. 4B mounted to a playard in the second primary/use mode.

[0028] FIG. 7 is a front elevation view of the bassinet assembly and playard of FIG. 6.

[0029] FIG. 8 is a plan view of the bassinet assembly and playard of FIG. 6.

[0030] FIG. 9 is a rear elevation view of the bassinet assembly and playard of

FIG. 6.

[0031] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another exemplary bassinet assembly in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another exemplary bassinet assembly in accordance with the present disclosure in a first primary/use mode.

[0033] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the bassinet assembly of FIG. 11 in a second primary/use mode prior to mounting on a playard. [0034] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the exemplary bassinet assembly of FIG. 12 mounted to a playard in the second primary/use mode.

[0035] FIG. 14 is an enlarged portion of FIG. 13.

[0036] FIG. 15 is an enlarged portion of FIG. 13 showing an alternative arrangement of the bassinet assembly.

[0037] FIG. 16 is a side elevation view of another exemplary bassinet assembly in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of another exemplary bassinet assembly (without sidewalls or sleeping surface) in accordance with the present disclosure in a first primary/use mode.

[0039] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the bassinet assembly of FIG. 17 in a secondary/disabled mode.

[0040] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of another exemplary bassinet assembly in accordance with the present disclosure in a first primary/use mode.

[0041] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of another exemplary bassinet assembly in accordance with the present disclosure in a first primary/use mode.

[0042] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the exemplary bassinet assembly of FIG. 20 mounted to a playard in a second primary/use mode.

[0043] FIG. 22 is a plan view of the bassinet assembly of FIG. 20.

[0044] FIG. 23 is a plan view of the bassinet assembly of FIG. 21.

[0045] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of another exemplary bassinet assembly in accordance with the present disclosure in a first primary/use mode.

[0046] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the exemplary bassinet assembly of FIG. 24 in a secondary/disabled mode.

[0047] FIG. 26 is another perspective view of the exemplary bassinet assembly of FIG. 24 in the secondary/disabled mode.

[0048] FIG. 27 is another perspective view of the exemplary bassinet assembly of FIG. 24 in the secondary/disabled mode.

[0049] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of another exemplary bassinet assembly in accordance with the present disclosure in a first primary/use mode. [0050] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the bassinet assembly of FIG. 28 mounted to a playard in a second primary/use mode.

[0051] FIG. 30 is a perspective view of another exemplary bassinet assembly in accordance with the present disclosure in a first primary/use mode.

[0052] FIG. 31 is an enlarged portion of FIG. 30.

[0053] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the bassinet assembly of FIG. 30 secondary/disabled mode.

[0054] FIG. 33 is an enlarged portion of FIG. 31.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] Certain terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and is not limiting. The words “front”, “rear”, “upper”, and “lower” designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made. The words “inwardly” and “outwardly” refer to directions towards and away from parts referenced in the drawings. “Axially” refers to a direction along the axis of a shaft. A reference to a list of items that are cited as “at least one of a, b, or c” (where a, b, and c represent the items being listed) means any single one of the items a, b, or c, or combinations thereof are included. The terminology includes the words specifically noted above, derivatives thereof and words of similar import.

[0056] In the following description and related drawings, multiple bassinet assemblies are shown. The bassinet assembly may configured to be mounted on another structure or piece of furniture, such as a playard, bed, or the like. In some embodiments, the bassinet assembly is functional when mounted as such, but rendered unusable when not mounted or used as a standalone unit (e.g., effectively or practically unusable as a bassinet to contain an infant due to lacking sidewalls or lacking a flat horizontal support surface).

[0057] The bassinet in some embodiments includes a sleeping surface that converts from a primary use mode for infant sleep to one or more secondary modes, which may be alternative uses or complete disablement. [0058] In some embodiments, the bassinet assembly includes a retractable leg assembly including retractable legs. In some embodiments, retraction and extension of the legs causes the sleeping surface to convert between the primary and secondary mode(s). Accordingly, a parent who retracts the legs in an attempt to place the bassinet on an unsafe support, such as a bed or couch, cannot use the bassinet for infant sleep. The legs may be sized to support the bassinet at a suitable height, for example, a height suitable for bedside use.

[0059] In some embodiments, the bassinet assembly can be mounted to a playard (or similar support structure) which provides an elevated, stable sleeping surface. When the bassinet assembly is removed from the playard, the width of the bassinet base changes to offer more stability when used as a standalone bassinet. [0060] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a bassinet assembly 10 in accordance with the present disclosure. The bassinet 10 includes an upper rail 14 and a base 16. The upper rail 14 can be a rigid component, such as a molded, plastic component. In some embodiments, the upper rail 14 can include a metal structure. Side walls 18 extend between the upper rail 14 and the base 16 and define an interior 20 of the bassinet assembly 10. A sleeping surface 22 is supported on the base 16. The sleeping surface 22 is generally planar and provides a suitable area for an infant to be placed. The sleeping surface 22 can include fabric and a rigid or semi-rigid insert or other stiffening element(s) to provide a generally flat and firm sleeping surface 22. The sleeping surface 22 can be removable for washing. The upper rail 14 can include handles 26 for lifting the bassinet assembly 10.

[0061] The bassinet assembly 10 can include retractable legs, such as two pairs of retractable legs 30 and 30’, attached to the base 16. The retractable legs 30 and 30’ can be fully extended to allow for an elevated sleeping surface 22, as shown in FIG. IB. A locking mechanism can secure the retractable legs 30 and 30’ in the extended position. The retractable legs 30 can be telescopically retracted through the base 16. In some embodiments, the retractable legs are solid one-piece legs. In other embodiments, the retractable legs 30 can include multiple telescoping sections, or a combination of solid one-piece legs and legs having multiple telescoping sections. When the retractable legs 30 and 30’ are extended, the bassinet assembly 10 is in a first prim ary /use mode.

[0062] Turning to FIG. IB, the retractable legs 30 and 30’ can be retracted to reduce the size of the bassinet assembly 10. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. IB, the retractable legs 30 and 30’ can be retracted through the base 16. When retracted, the retractable legs 30 and 30’ extend at least partially into the interior 20 of the bassinet assembly 10 and can displace the sleeping surface 22. As shown in FIG. IB, the sleeping surface 22 can include a hinge 34 secured to the base 16 that allows a first portion Pl and a second portion P2 of the sleeping surface 22 to be independently displaced into a v-shape. One of skill in the art will recognize that the sleeping surface 34 can include additional hinges or creases to displace the sleeping surface in a desired orientation. The displaced sleeping surface 22 of FIG. IB is rendered unusable and the bassinet assembly 10 is in a secondary/disabled mode. A locking mechanism can secure the retractable legs 30 and 30’ in the retracted position.

[0063] With additional reference to FIGS. 2A-2C, the retractable legs 30 and 30’ are shown in more detail. Each of the retractable legs 30 and 30’ is received in a corresponding support flange 38 of the base 16. The retractable legs 30 and 30’ are each supported for telescoping movement through a respective support flange 38 between the extended and retracted position. A locking mechanism 42 including a at least one spring pin 46 can be provided for securing each of the retractable legs 30 and 30’ for in one or both of the extended or retracted positions. Each spring pin 46 can include a snap button 50 adapted to be received in a hole 54 of a respective support flange 38 for interlocking a respective retractable leg 30 and 30’ to the base 16. The snap button 50 of each spring pin 46 can be depressed to release a respective retractable leg 30 and 30’ from the base 16. In the illustrated example, two spring pins 46 are provided for locking each respective retractable leg 30 and 30’ in either the extended or retracted positions. It will be appreciated that additional spring pins 46 could be provided for locking each respective retractable leg 30 and 30’ in one or more intermediate positions.

[0064] FIG. 3 illustrates the bassinet assembly 10 in a second primary/use mode. In this mode, retractable legs 30 are fully retracted into the interior 20 of the bassinet assembly 10 while retractable legs 30’ are partially retracted into the interior 20 of the bassinet assembly 10. It should be appreciated that the retractable legs 30 are retracted a greater distance into the interior 20 than retractable legs 30’ thereby displacing portion P 1 of the sleeping surface to a relatively more vertical orientation than portion P2. In this mode, portion Pl of the sleeping surface 22 is configured as a seatback while portion P2 of the sleeping surface 22 is configured as a seating surface. Portions Pl and P2 or supported by retractable legs 30 and 30’ respectively. Retractable legs 30 and/or 30’ may include telescoping sections that allow the legs 30 and/or 30’ to retract to the configuration shown in FIG. 3, or to various other configurations wherein the relative angle between portions Pl and P2 can be different.

[0065] FIGS. 4A-4B and 5 illustrate another exemplary bassinet assembly 110. The bassinet assembly 110 includes an upper rail 114 and a base 116. The upper rail 114 can be a rigid component, such as a molded, plastic component. In some embodiments, the upper rail 114 can include a metal structure. Side walls 118 extend between the upper rail 14 and the base 16 and define an interior 120 of the bassinet assembly 110. A sleeping surface 122 is supported on the base 116. The sleeping surface 122 is generally planar and provides a suitable area for an infant to be placed. The sleeping surface 122 can include fabric and a rigid or semirigid insert or other stiffening element(s) to provide a generally flat and firm sleeping surface 122. The sleeping surface 122 can be removable for washing. The upper rail 114 includes mounts 126 including, for example, c-channels 128 for lifting the bassinet assembly 110 and for connection to a support structure in order for the bassinet assembly 110 to be supported by the support structure, such as rails of a playard 150 or other structure, as will be described in more detail below. [0066] The bassinet assembly 110 includes two deployable legs 130 attached to the upper rail 114. The deployable legs 130 are generally u-shaped and rotate about a central axis to deploy outward to a distance of appx. 24” or more (from leg to leg) and to retract to a distance of appx. 14”. When the deployable legs 130 are deployed outward as shown in FIG. 4A, the bassinet assembly 110 is in a first primary/use mode. In this mode, the deployable legs 130 provide extra stability to the bassinet assembly 110. When the deployable legs 130 are retracted, the overall size of the bassinet assembly 110 is reduced which can be convenient for when the bassinet assembly is not in use or when the bassinet assembly is used in conjunction with a support structure, such as a playard, for example. In some embodiments, the deployable legs are automatically deployed to a position appx 24” apart to optimize stabihty and inhibit the caretaker from placing the unit on a narrow, elevated or unstable surface. For example, the deployable legs can be biased towards a use or disabled position with biasing elements, such as springs. [0067] Turning to FI s. 5A-5D, each deployable leg 130 is coupled to the upper rail 114 by a first and second hub/pivot assemblies 134. The hub/pivot assemblies 134 allow each deployable leg 130 to pivot between the position shown in FIGs. 4A and 4B, as shown. A biasing member in the form of a torsion spring 138 interposed between the upper rail 114 and the hub/pivot 134 urges the deployable leg 130 towards the deployed position. A stopper 142 supported on the upper rail 114 delimits rotation of the hub-pivot 134 at the deployed and retracted positions of the deployable legs 130

[0068] In FIGs. 6-9, the bassinet assembly 110 is illustrated mounted to a playard 150 in a second primary/use position. The c-channels 128 of the mounts 126 are adapted to receive/engage respective top rails 152 of the playard 150. In this configuration, the deployable legs 130 are retracted thereby maximizing space within the remainder of the playard 150. In some embodiment, ,the c-channels 128 are releasably securable to the top rails 152.

[0069] In the embodiment of FIGs. 4-9, the mounts 126 are on opposite transverse sides of the upper rail 114. In other embodiments, the handles can be on opposite longitudinal sides for the upper rail 114. An example of a bassinet assembly 110 having mounts 126 on opposite longitudinal sides of the upper rail 114 is illustrated in FIG. 10.

[0070] FIGs. 11-14 illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a bassinet assembly 210. The bassinet assembly 210 includes an upper rail 214, which can be a rigid component, such as a molded, plastic component, or a metal structure. Side walls 218 extend from the upper rail 214 and support a sleeping surface 222 in an interior 220 of the bassinet assembly 210. The sleeping surface 222 is generally planar and provides a suitable area for an infant to be placed. The sleeping surface 222 can include fabric and a rigid or semi-rigid insert or other stiffening element(s) to provide a generally flat and firm sleeping surface 222. The sleeping surface 222 can be removable for washing.

[0071] The bassinet assembly 210 includes first and second mounts 230 attached to the upper rail 214 on opposite transverse sides thereof. Each mount 230 can include a fixed arm 234 coupled at a first end the upper rail 214 and a T- shape bar 238 coupled to a second end via a hinge 242. The T-shape bars 238 are shown in an extended configuration in FIG. 11 for supporting the sleeping surface 222 in an elevated position corresponding to a first primary/use mode. The T-shape bars 238 can have a width of at least 24” in order to add support for the bassinet assembly 210 in the extended configuration. In FIG. 12, the T-shape bars 238 are shown rotated about an axis A in a retracted position. In the retracted position the bassinet assembly 210 can be used in connection with a playard 250 or other support.

[0072] For example, in FIGs. 13 and 14, the bassinet assembly 210 is mounted to respective top rails 252 of the playard 250. When mounted to the top rails 252 of the playard 250, the T-shape bars 238 are retracted, either manually by a caretaker, or automatically, for example, under spring bias, allowing the bassinet assembly 210 to fit within the envelope of the playard walls and additionally maximizing the rest of the play and sleep area within the playard walls. [0073] As-shown in FIGs. 13 and 14, the T-shape bars 238 of the bassinet assembly 210 connect to the top rails 252 of the playard 250 to mount the bassinet assembly 210 to the playard 252. With additional reference to FIG. 15, the T-shape bars 238 can additionally or alternatively include an engagement member 260, such as a foot, hook, or protrusion, that allows T-shape bars 238 to support the bassinet assembly 210 on top of the top rails 252 in a more secure manner.

[0074] FIG. 16 illustrates another exemplary bassinet assembly 310. The bassinet assembly 310 includes an upper rail 314 and a base 316. The upper rail 314 can be a rigid component, such as a molded, plastic component. In some embodiments, the upper rail 314 can include a metal structure. Side walls 318 extend from the upper rail 314 to the base 316 and define an interior 320 of the bassinet assembly 310. A sleeping surface 322 is supported on the base 316. The sleeping surface 322 is generally planar and provides a suitable area for an infant to be placed. The sleeping surface 322 can include fabric and a rigid or semi-rigid insert or other stiffening element(s) to provide a generally flat and firm sleeping surface 322. The sleeping surface 322 can be removable for washing.

[0075] In this embodiment, the bassinet assembly 310 includes a flip-out foot 330 (e.g., a U-shape tube) that can be tucked underneath the base 316 when mounted onto a playard top rail. When removed from the playard/stand, the foot 330 can open to a deployed position (position A in FIG. 16) to create a bassinet base width of >24”, for example. The foot 330 can be spring-biased to automatically deploy outwardly to position A. Further, the foot 330, if not deployed outward, parallel to the base 316, protrudes downward (position B in FIG. 16) causing the bassinet sleeping surface 322 to be at an extreme angle, rendering the bassinet generally unusable without repositioning the foot 330. When the foot 330 is in position B, the bassinet assembly is in a secondary/disabled mode.

[0076] FIGs. 17 and 18 illustrate another exemplary bassinet assembly 410. The bassinet assembly 410 includes an upper rail 414. The upper rail 414 can be a rigid component, such as a molded, plastic component. In some embodiments, the upper rail 414 can include a metal structure. Side walls (not shown) extend from the upper rail 414 and support a sleeping surface (not shown) in an interior of the bassinet assembly 410. The sleeping surface is generally planar and provides a suitable area for an infant to be placed. The sleeping surface can include fabric and a rigid or semi-rigid insert or other stiffening element(s) to provide a generally flat and firm sleeping surface. The sleeping surface can be removable for washing. [0077] A plurality of pivotable legs 430, such as four pivotable legs 430, are coupled to the upper rail 414 via attachment members 434. The bassinet assembly 410 is configured to be used in a first primary/use mode with the legs 430 deployed as shown in FIG. 17. When the legs 430 are deployed, the width of the unit is approximately 24” and the bassinet assembly 410 can be used as a standalone unit. The legs 430 can be biased towards a use or disabled position with biasing elements, such as springs.

[0078] When the legs 430 are retracted, as shown in FIG. 18, the bassinet assembly 410 can be used in a second primary/use mode assembled to the top rails of a playard via mounts 438 located on opposite transverse sides of the upper rail 414. Each mount can include a handle and a c-channel, as previously described in earlier embodiments.

[0079] FIG. 19 illustrates another exemplary bassinet assembly 510 in accordance with the present disclosure. In this embodiment, T-shape legs 530 are pivotally coupled to an upper rail 514. When the T-shape legs 530 are deployed outwardly as shown, the bassinet assembly 510 can be used as a standalone bassinet in a first primary/use mode. First and second mounts 534 on opposite transverse sides of the upper rail 514 are provided for using the bassinet assembly in conjunction with a playard or other mount in a second primary/use mode. Each mount can include a handle and a c-channel, as previously described in earher embodiments.

[0080] In such second primary/use mode, the T-shape legs 530 are folded inwardly against the sidewalls of the bassinet assembly 510

[0081] FIGs 20-23 illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a bassinet assembly 610 in accordance with the present disclosure. In this embodiment, a plurality of legs 630, such as four legs 630, are pivotally coupled to an upper rail 614. When the legs 630 are deployed outwardly as shown in FIGs. 20 and 22, the bassinet assembly 610 can be used as a standalone bassinet in a first primary/use mode. First and second mounts 634 on opposite transverse sides of the upper rail 614 are provided for using the bassinet assembly 610 in conjunction with top rails 652 of a playard 650 or other mount in a second primary/use mode, as shown in FIGs. 21 and 23. Each mount can include a handle and a c-channel, as previously described in earlier embodiments. In such second primary/use mode, the legs 630 are folded parallel to the upper rail 614 of the bassinet assembly 610. Each mount can include a handle and a c-channel, as previously described in earlier embodiments.

[0082] As illustrated in FIGs. 22 and 23, each of the legs 630 is pivotally mounted to the upper rail 614 about a respective axis A, B, C, or D. In one example, the legs 630are angled at approximately 20° to the front plane. This allows distal ends of the legs 430 to extend downwardly and away from the upper rail 614 when deployed to provide a more stable configuration in the first primary/use mode, and allows the legs 630 to rotate to a position parallel to and adjacent the upper rail 614 when used in the second primary/use mode.

[0083] FIGs 24-27 illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a bassinet assembly 710 in accordance with the present disclosure. In this embodiment, a plurality of legs 730, such as four legs 730, are pivotally coupled to respective vertical supports 734 which, in turn, are coupled to an upper rail 714 via mounts 738. Each mount can include a handle and a c-channel, as previously described in earlier embodiments. The legs 730 are pivotally coupled to a bottom of each of the vertical supports 734 and rotatable about a respective axis. When the legs 730 are deployed, the width of the bassinet is approximately 24” and useable as a standalone unit in a first primary/use mode. With the legs folded inward, the bassinet assembly 710 can be assembled to top rails of a playard or other mount in a second primary/use mode via mounts 738 that are rigidly connected to respective transverse sides of the upper rail 714.

[0084] In some embodiments, the legs are configured to be partially or entirely located within an envelope of the sleeping surface of the bassinet when not deployed (e.g., when stowed). For example, the legs may be extend entirely or partially under the sleeping surface in some examples.

[0085] In FIGs. 26 and 27, it will be appreciated that when the legs 730 are retracted but the bassinet assembly 710 is not supported on a playard or other mount, the bassinet assembly is in a secondary/disabled mode wherein the bassinet assembly 710 is unstable and otherwise not fit for use as a bassinet. In some embodiments, the bassinet assembly 710 can include a contoured bottom that does not allow the bassinet assembly 710 to remain upright when not used with a playard or other mount.

[0086] FIGs. 28 and 29 illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a bassinet assembly 810 in accordance with the present disclosure. The bassinet assembly 810 includes an upper rail 814. The upper rail 814 can be a rigid component, such as a molded, plastic component. In some embodiments, the upper rail 814 can include a metal structure. Side walls 818 extend from the upper rail 814 and support a sleeping surface 822 in an interior 820 of the bassinet assembly 810. The sleeping surface 822 is generally planar and provides a suitable area for an infant to be placed. The sleeping surface 822 can include fabric and a rigid or semi-rigid insert or other stiffening element(s) to provide a generally flat and firm sleeping surface 822. The sleeping surface 822 can be removable for washing.

[0087] The bassinet assembly 810 includes first and second mounts 830 attached to the upper rail 814 on opposite transverse sides thereof. Each mount 830 includes T-shape leg 834 for supporting the bassinet assembly 830 in a first primary/use mode. Each mount 830 can further include a C-shape channel 838 adapted to receive an upper rail 852 of a playard 850, as shown in FIG. 29. The bassinet assembly 810 further includes protruding structures 858 rigidly mounted to the longitudinal sides of the upper rail 814. The protruding structures 858 extend outward from the upper rail 814 and increase the width of the bassinet assembly 810. In the illustrated embodiment, the protruding structures 814 comprise storage consoles. When used as a standalone unit in a first primary/use mode, the width of the bassinet assembly can be, for example, approximately 24” or more for stability and to meet applicable safety standards.

[0088] Turning to FIGs. 30-33, another exemplary bassinet assembly 910 in accordance with the present disclosure is shown. In this embodiment, the bassinet assembly generally includes a fixed frame assembly 912 having an upper rail 914 and legs 916 attached to the upper rail 914. The upper rail 914 can be a rigid component, such as a molded, plastic component. In some embodiments, the upper rail 914 can include a metal structure. Side walls 918 extend from the upper rail 914 and support a sleeping surface 922 in an interior 920 of the bassinet assembly 910. The sleeping surface 922 is generally planar and provides a suitable area for an infant to be placed. The sleeping surface 922 can include fabric and a rigid or semi-rigid insert or other stiffening element(s) to provide a generally flat and firm sleeping surface 922. The sleeping surface 922 can be removable for washing.

[0089] A deployable foot 930 is attached to one of the legs 916 and is deployable to increase a footprint of the bassinet assembly 910. Although a single foot 930 is shown, it should be appreciated that a second foot could be provided on the other leg 916. The foot 930 is supported for rotation on the leg 916 between a deployed position shown in FIGs. 30 and 31 and a retracted or stowed position shown in FIGs. 32 and 33. A biasing element, such as a spring 934 can bias the foot 930 towards the stowed or deployed positions. A rotational stop 938 on the leg 916 cooperates with a slot 942 in the foot to delimit rotation of the foot 930 at the deployed and stowed positions. In the illustrated embodiment, the foot 930 rotates down from a horizontal deployed position to a vertical orientation in the stowed position. In other configurations, the foot 930 can rotate upward to a vertical orientation in the stowed position, or may rotate 180 degrees from the deployed position to the stowed position.

[0090] The above-described bassinet assembly may be implemented in various configurations and operated with various methods which are listed below:

1. A bassinet assembly, comprising: a bassinet including a base, an upper rail, sidewalls extending between the upper rail and the base, and a sleeping surface; and a retractable leg assembly configured to support the base; wherein the retractable leg assembly includes at least one leg that is movable between an extended position and a retracted position; and wherein, when the retractable leg assembly is retracted, the sleeping surface of the bassinet is converted from a primary sleeping mode to a secondary mode.

2. The bassinet assembly of configuration 1, wherein the secondary mode includes the sleeping surface folded to a seat shape.

3. The bassinet assembly of configuration 2, wherein the leg assembly supports the sleeping surface in the position of the secondary mode.

4. The bassinet assembly of configuration 1, wherein the secondary mode includes the sleeping surface folded to disable use of the sleeping surface for supporting an infant.

5. The bassinet assembly of configuration 1, wherein a portion of the leg assembly extends through the base when retracted.

6. The basinet assembly of configuration 5, wherein the leg assembly includes at least two legs, and at least a portion of at least one of the leg extends into an interior of the bassinet and displaces the sleeping surface when the leg assembly is retracted.

7. The basinet assembly of configuration 6, wherein the sleeping surface is supported on the base and includes a first portion and a second portion, and wherein the first portion is displaceable independently from the second portion.

8. The basinet assembly of configuration 7, wherein the first and second portions of the sleeping surface are connected to the base by a hinge. 9. The basinet assembly of configuration 8, wherein a first leg of the at least two legs is configured to displace the first portion of the sleeping system a first amount upward from the base, and a second leg of the at least two legs is configured to displace the second portion of the sleeping surface a second amount upward from the base.

10. The basinet assembly of configuration 9, wherein the first amount is different than the second amount such that the first portion is oriented at a first non-horizontal angle and the second portion is oriented at a second non-horizontal angle that is different than the first non-horizontal angle.

11. The basinet assembly of configuration 10, wherein the first leg extends into the interior of the bassinet a first distance when retracted, and wherein the second leg extends into the interior of the bassinet a second distance when retracted, and wherein the first distance is greater than the second distance.

12. The basinet assembly of configuration 10, wherein at least one of the at least two legs is configured to telescope through the base.

13. A bassinet, comprising: a sleeping surface; a mount for attaching the bassinet to a support structure; and a leg assembly movable between a stowed position and a deployed position, the deployed position providing the legs spaced apart wider than in the stowed position.

14. The bassinet of configuration 13, wherein the stowed position provides the legs substantially within an envelope of the sleeping surface. 15. The bassinet of configuration 13, wherein the deployed position provides the leg assembly with at least 24 inches of width.

16. The bassinet of configuration 13, wherein the leg assembly automatically moves to the deployed position when the mount of the bassinet is removed from a support structure.

17. The bassinet of configuration 13, wherein the bassinet includes an upper rail and side walls extending from the upper rail supporting a sleeping surface, and wherein the leg assembly is coupled to the upper rail.

18. The bassinet of configuration 17, wherein the leg assembly includes first and second legs attached to opposite sides of the upper rail.

19. The bassinet of configuration 18, wherein the first and second legs are at least one of u-shape or t-shape.

20. The bassinet of configuration 19, wherein the first and second legs each include at least one engagement member for engaging a support structure when the leg assembly is in the stowed position.

21. The bassinet of configuration 17, wherein the leg assembly includes four independently movable legs coupled to the upper rail, each of the four independently movable legs configured to be oriented parallel to the upper rail when the leg assembly is in the stowed position.

22. The bassinet of configuration 13, wherein, when the leg assembly is in the stowed position, the sleeping surface of the bassinet is disabled for use as a sleeping surface unless the mount is attached to a support structure. 23. A bassinet, comprising: an upper rail; side walls extending downwardly from the upper rail supporting a sleeping surface; and first and second mounts on opposite sides of the upper rail for attaching the bassinet to a support structure; wherein the first and second mounts include a leg for supporting the bassinet in a standalone use position; and wherein the leg extends downward and is coextensive with a majority of a height of the sidewalls.

24. The bassinet according to configuration 23, wherein the leg of at least one of the first or second mounts is t-shape.

25. The bassinet according to configuration 23, further comprising a protruding structure mounted to the upper rail between the first and second mounts.

26. The bassinet according to configuration 25, wherein the protruding structure includes a storage console.

[0091] Having thus described the present embodiments in detail, it is to be appreciated and will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many physical changes, only a few of which are exemphfied in the detailed description of the disclosure, could be made without altering the inventive concepts and principles embodied therein.

[0092] It is also to be appreciated that numerous embodiments incorporating only part(s) of the disclosed embodiments are possible which do not alter, with respect to those parts, the inventive concepts and principles embodied therein. [0093] The present embodiment and optional configurations are therefore to be considered in all respects as exemplary and/or illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the disclosure being indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description, and all alternate embodiments and changes to this embodiment which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of said claims are therefore to be embraced therein.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

2. The bassinet assembly of claim 1, wherein the secondary mode includes the sleeping surface folded to a seat shape.

3. The bassinet assembly of claim 2, wherein the leg assembly supports the sleeping surface in the position of the secondary mode.

4. The bassinet assembly of claim 1, wherein the secondary mode includes the sleeping surface folded to disable use of the sleeping surface for supporting an infant.

5. The bassinet assembly of claim 1, wherein a portion of the leg assembly extends through the base when retracted.

6. The basinet assembly of claim 5, wherein the leg assembly includes at least two legs, and at least a portion of at least one of the leg extends into an interior of the bassinet and displaces the sleeping surface when the leg assembly is retracted.

7. The basinet assembly of claim 6, wherein the sleeping surface is supported on the base and includes a first portion and a second portion, and wherein the first portion is displaceable independently from the second portion.

8. The basinet assembly of claim 7, wherein the first and second portions of the sleeping surface are connected to the base by a hinge.

9. The basinet assembly of claim 8, wherein a first leg of the at least two legs is configured to displace the first portion of the sleeping system a first amount upward from the base, and a second leg of the at least two legs is configured to displace the second portion of the sleeping surface a second amount upward from the base.

10. The basinet assembly of claim 9, wherein the first amount is different than the second amount such that the first portion is oriented at a first non-horizontal angle and the second portion is oriented at a second non-horizontal angle that is different than the first non-horizontal angle.

11. The basinet assembly of claim 10, wherein the first leg extends into the interior of the bassinet a first distance when retracted, and wherein the second leg extends into the interior of the bassinet a second distance when retracted, and wherein the first distance is greater than the second distance.

12. The basinet assembly of claim 10, wherein at least one of the at least two legs is configured to telescope through the base.

14. The bassinet of claim 13, wherein the stowed position provides the legs substantially within an envelope of the sleeping surface.

15. The bassinet of claim 13, wherein the deployed position provides the leg assembly with at least 24 inches of width.

16. The bassinet of claim 13, wherein the leg assembly automatically moves to the deployed position when the mount of the bassinet is removed from a support structure.

17. The bassinet of claim 13, wherein the bassinet includes an upper rail and side walls extending from the upper rail supporting a sleeping surface, and wherein the leg assembly is coupled to the upper rail.

18. The bassinet of claim 17, wherein the leg assembly includes first and second legs attached to opposite sides of the upper rail.

19. The bassinet of claim 18, wherein the first and second legs are at least one of u-shape or t-shape.

20. The bassinet of claim 19, wherein the first and second legs each include at least one engagement member for engaging a support structure when the leg assembly is in the stowed position.

21. The bassinet of claim 17, wherein the leg assembly includes four independently movable legs coupled to the upper rail, each of the four independently movable legs configured to be oriented parallel to the upper rail when the leg assembly is in the stowed position.

22. The bassinet of claim 13, wherein, when the leg assembly is in the stowed position, the sleeping surface of the bassinet is disabled for use as a sleeping surface unless the mount is attached to a support structure.

23. A bassinet, comprising: an upper rail; side walls extending downwardly from the upper rail supporting a sleeping surface; and first and second mounts on opposite sides of the upper rail for attaching the bassinet to a support structure; wherein the first and second mounts include a leg for supporting the bassinet in a standalone use position; and wherein the leg extends downward and is coextensive with a majority of a height of the sidewalls.

24. The bassinet according to claim 23, wherein the leg of at least one of the first or second mounts is t-shape.

25. The bassinet according to claim 23, further comprising a protruding structure mounted to the upper rail between the first and second mounts.

26. The bassinet according to claim 25, wherein the protruding structure includes a storage console.