Substrate-Retaining Holder

Abstract

Apparatus and associated methods relate to a holder with a slot for laterally receiving and extracting a thin substrate into a recessed access area where a major surface of the substrate may be accessed while the edges of the substrate are substantially retained against vertical egress. In an illustrative example, the thin substrate may be paper or other material suitable for marking with a writing instrument. The access area in some examples may be defined by an opening in the holder through which a central area of the major surface of the substrate may be accessed. In an illustrative embodiment, the holder may be attached to a child's high chair to attract the child's attention and substantially confine the use of writing instruments to the paper disposed within the recessed access area.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

Various embodiments described herein may relate generally to apparatus or methods for holding objects, such as paper.

BACKGROUND

Paper is a widely used substrate for recording written language as well as works of art. Authors and artists come in all ages, as even young children enjoy putting a writing instrument to express themselves creatively. Instruments such as paint brushes, crayons, pens, markers, or the like can be employed to make tangible creative expressions on a wide variety of surfaces.

Although paper is a common substrate for writing and drawing, other substrates can be used. For example, plastics can be used to make transparent surfaces.

Some surfaces may be considered more appropriate for marking than other surfaces. In addition to paper, people may wish to draw on surfaces such as chalkboards or grease boards. Examples of generally inappropriate surfaces for marking with writing instruments may include metals, fabrics, glass, or cement. It can be detrimental if writing instruments are applied to furniture, appliances, clothes, walls, or a range of ordinary household objects.

SUMMARY

Apparatus and associated methods relate to a holder with a slot for laterally receiving and extracting a thin substrate into a recessed access area where a major surface of the substrate may be accessed while the edges of the substrate are substantially retained against vertical egress. In an illustrative example, the thin substrate may be paper or other material suitable for marking with a writing instrument. The access area in some examples may be defined by an opening in the holder through which a central area of the major surface of the substrate may be accessed. In an illustrative embodiment, the holder may be attached to a child's high chair to attract the child's attention and substantially confine the use of writing instruments to the paper disposed within the recessed access area.

Various embodiments may provide one or more advantages. For example, certain embodiments may be useful as entertainment systems for children. Some embodiments may advantageously confine the drawings instruments of a child substantially to a benign writing surface (e.g., paper) within the recessed access area. Some embodiments may provide a portable or stationary entertainment station generally for use by a child confined to a seat for engaging the attention of the child such as to keep the child occupied. In some implementations the holder may be mountable to an object, such as a chair seat, a table top, or a vertical surface (e.g., wall). In some implementations, certain embodiments may be further capable of releasably retaining an object, such as an electronic notebook or tablet computer, providing a frame to hold and protect the object against abrasion, shock, or other impacts. Various examples may be deployed in stationary applications by attachment to a vertical or horizontal surface, for example. Some implementations may advantageously be integrated into other systems, such as, for example, in a children's high chair or a seat adapted for use in a vehicle (e.g., airplane, automobile, or marine craft). Some embodiments may also enhance drawing and writing within a confined region, thereby limiting occurrences of writing on inappropriate locations. Additionally, some electronic embodiments of the holder may include electronic circuitry capable of responding to user inputs, such as by recording user activity and/or providing predetermined outputs in response to the user input. Some embodiments may further be suited for protectively retaining an electronic tablet, book, or other thick medium or object.

The details of various embodiments are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an upper perspective view of an exemplary holder with a sheet of paper exploded therefrom and attached to a child's high chair.

FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic top view of an exemplary holder with a sheet inserted therein.

FIG. 3 illustrates a side cross-sectional view taken along lines 3-3 of the exemplary holder of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 illustrates a first side view of an exemplary holder showing a slot.

FIG. 5 illustrates a second side view of an exemplary holder opposite the slot.

FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary holder with a reduced height front portion of the frame.

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary holder with inclined frame sides.

FIG. 8 illustrates an upper perspective view of an exemplary holder with the frame disconnected from the base member.

FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary holder having recessed portions, one of which has a cover.

FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary holder having a stopping member over the slot to prevent insertion and/or removal of the sheet of paper.

FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary holder holding an electronic tablet.

FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary holder holding a light supply embedded within the base member for illuminating a sheet of paper.

FIG. 13 illustrates an electronic embodiment of an exemplary holder.

FIG. 14 illustrates an exemplary holder having an attachment structure suitable for attachment to a chair seat.

FIG. 15 illustrates an exemplary holder having an attachment structure suitable for attachment to a table.

FIG. 16 illustrates an exemplary holder having an attachment structure suitable for attachment to a shopping cart.

Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

To aid understanding, this document is organized as follows. First, with reference to FIG. 1, an exemplary embodiment of the holder is shown attached to a table of a high chair. Second, with reference to FIGS. 2-5 exemplary top, sectional, and side views of embodiments of the holder are shown. FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate exemplary embodiments with non-uniform frame thicknesses. With reference to FIG. 8, an exemplary holder includes a frame that may be removably disconnected from a base member. FIGS. 9-13 illustrate further exemplary embodiments of a holder. Finally, with reference to FIGS. 14-16, exemplary embodiments are shown of the holder, and associated attachment structures, attached to different objects.

FIG. 1 depicts an upper perspective view of an embodiment of the holder with a sheet of paper exploded therefrom and attached to a child's high chair. In FIG. 1, a holder 100 is shown having a base member 105 with an upper surface 110 and a lower surface 115. The holder 100 also has a retaining structure such as a frame 120 extending from the upper surface 110 of the base member 105 such as to be raised from the upper surface 110. The base member 105 and frame 120 may be comprised of various materials, such as for example wood or plastic. The base member 105 and frame 120 may also be comprised of a unitary one-piece structure or separate pieces which are adapted to be disconnected from each other as will be discussed in reference to other Figures.

The frame 120 has a first side member 125, a second side member 130, a third side member 135, and a fourth side member 140 which define a central opening 145 between thereof for access to the upper surface 110 of the base member 105. The first side member 125 is opposite the second side member 130 with respect to the upper surface 110 and the second side member 135 is opposite the fourth side member 140 with respect to the upper surface. The first side member 125, the second side member 130, the third side member 135, and the fourth side member 140 are further connected to each other such as to form a rectangular-shaped frame 120. The base member 105 is also illustrated as rectangular-shaped such that the base member 105 and the frame 120 have flush outer surfaces.

Each of the side members 125, 130, 135, 140 may be equidistant in height such as to be flush on a top surface all the way around the top perimeter of the frame 120. The side members 125, 130, 135, 140 are substantially raised from the base member 105 for, among other purposes, providing a retaining barrier for the child when writing upon the paper inserted within the holder 100, such that the child does not extend the writing utensil beyond the border or edge of the paper when writing or drawing. As will be discussed in reference to other Figures, the side members 125, 130, 135, 140 may be different in height.

The opening 145 generally spans a distance across a majority of the frame 120 along both a lengthwise and cross-wise axis and such that the perimeter of the opening 145 is nearly as long as the outer perimeter of the frame 120 to permit sufficient and easy access to paper positioned upon the upper surface 110 of the base member 105 for the child to write thereupon.

FIG. 1 also shows an elongated slot 150 extending through the first side member 125. The slot 150 is shown as rectangular-shaped; however the slot 150 may be shaped in other forms, such as for example ovular, irregular-shaped, or circular. The slot 150 generally has a height and a width sufficient to receive a singular flat sheep of paper, cardstock, or other flat substrate. However, in some embodiments, the slot 150 may be sized to receive plural sheets of substrate. Although not shown in FIG. 1, the slot 150 extends around the inner edges of the first side member 125, the second side member 130, the third side member 135, and the fourth side member 140 to retain one or more sheets of paper upon the upper surface 110 of the base member 105 with the overhanging inner edge of the first side member 125, the second side member 130, the third side member 135, and the fourth side member 140.

Also shown in FIG. 1 are attachment straps 155, 160 to attach the base member 105 and holder 100 to an object, and in particular to FIG. 1, a high chair. Although only two straps are shown, the holder 100 may have more straps, such as one or more straps extending from each side of the holder 100, wherein straps across from each other connect underneath the attached object (e.g., high chair). The straps 155, 160 may incorporate a buckle or other mechanical (e.g., magnetic) type locking structure to secure multiple straps together. The straps 155, 160 may also include adjustment mechanisms for adjusting the length of the straps 155, 160.

A flat sheet of paper 165 is aligned with the slot 145 in FIG. 1. As shown, the sheet of paper 165 has a similar height and width as the slot 150. Once inserted within the slot 150, the sheet of paper 165 is suited for resting upon the upper surface 110 of the base member 105.

The holder 100 in FIG. 1 is attached to an exemplary high chair 170. The high chair 170 may be comprised of various configurations. In FIG. 1, the high chair 170 is meant to be a children's high chair, such as used for eating or sitting at a table. The high chair 170 includes legs 175, a seat 180, a backing 185, armrests 190, and a table 195. The holder 100 is attached to the table 195 via the attachment straps 155, 160, such that when the child sits on the seat 180 of the high chair 105, the child may draw, write on, or read the sheet of paper 165 inserted within the holder 100 via the central, access opening of the frame 120. In some embodiments, the holder 100 may be incorporated with the table 195 of the high chair 170 as a one-piece unitary body.

FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic top view of an exemplary holder with a sheet inserted therein. In FIG. 2, a top illustration of a holder 200 is shown, the holder 200 being similar to the holder 100 described with reference to FIG. 1. The holder 200 has a base member 205 (hidden beneath a sheet of paper) and a frame 210, both the base member 205 and frame 210 being rectangular in shape. However, the other shapes of the base member 205 and frame 210 may be utilized, such as for example a circular, triangular, irregular, or ovular shape.

The frame 210 includes a first side member 215 having an outer edge 220 and an inner edge 225, a second side member 230 having an outer edge 235 and an inner edge 240, a third side member 245 having an outer edge 250 and an inner edge 255, and a fourth side member 260 having an outer edge 265 and an inner edge 270. The outer edges 220, 235, 250, 265 define an outer perimeter of the frame 210 and are preferably flush with an outer perimeter of the base member 205. The inner edges 225, 240, 255, 270 define the inner perimeter of the frame 210 and comprise the perimeter of the access opening 275 for permitting a wide-range of access to the upper surface of the base member 205. The opening 275 is shown as centered with respect to the frame 210; however, the opening 275 may, in some embodiments, be positioned off-centered with respect to the frame 210.

As shown in FIG. 2, a sheet of paper 280 is inserted beneath the frame 210 and above the base member 205, wherein the sheet of paper 280 is accessed through the opening 275. The inner edges 225, 240, 255, 270 extend inwardly past the outer edge 285 of the sheet of paper 280 such as to overhang the edge 285 of the sheet of paper 280 to retain the sheet of paper 280 upon the base member 205 and beneath the frame 210.

FIG. 3 illustrates a side cross-sectional view taken along lines 3-3 of the exemplary holder of FIG. 2. As more clearly illustrated, the sheet of paper 280 extends beneath the inner edges 240, 255, 270 (and not shown 225) thus retaining the sheet of paper 280 upon the upper surface of the base member 205 and centered with respect to the opening 275. As also illustrated in FIG. 3, the depth of the opening 275 and thus height of the side members 230, 245, 260 (and not shown 215) is substantially greater than the height of the paper 280 thus providing a sufficient barrier to prevent the child from allowing the writing utensil to move off of the paper 280 when drawing or writing upon the paper 280 through the opening 275.

As also illustrated in FIG. 3, the holder 200 may include a plurality of straps. FIG. 3 illustrates three straps; however a fourth may be included, such as extending from the side of the first side member 215. The straps may comprise a first strap 285 having a locking member 290, a second strap 295 having a locking member 300 and an adjustment member 305, wherein the locking members 290, 300 may attach to each other to secure straps 285, 295 together. The adjustment member 305 may be used to adjust the length of the strap 295. In addition, another strap 310 having a locking member 315 may attach to an opposing strap (not shown) extending from the side of the first side member 215. The straps work together to secure the holder 200 to an object, such as shown in FIG. 1 with the holder attached to a high chair. The locking members 290, 300, 315 may comprise various configurations, such as for example a buckle and slot combination, snaps, magnetic closures, or hook and loop fasteners. In some embodiments, opposing straps, such as straps 285, 295 may comprise a unitary structure and be comprised of a flexible, elastic material and the respective locking members 290, 300 may be omitted.

FIG. 4 illustrates a first side view of an exemplary holder showing a slot. In FIG. 4, a front side view of the embodiment 200 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 is illustrated. The holder 200 is shown with base member 205 and frame 210. The first side member 215 is shown with elongated slot 320 extending through the side member 215. The length of the slot 320 is preferably such that the slot 320 extends at least partially under the side members 245 and 260 (shown in FIGS. 2 and 3). Also shown in FIG. 4 are straps 285, 295, 310 with locking members 290, 300, 315 and adjustment member 305.

FIG. 5 illustrates a second side view of an exemplary holder opposite the slot. In FIG. 5, a rear side view of the embodiment 200 shown in FIGS. 2, 3, and 4 is illustrated. The holder 200 is shown with base member 205 and frame 210. The second side member 230 is shown. As illustrated the second side member 230 does not have the slot, thus the second side member 230 restricts passage of the paper substrate through the second side member 230 and thus forces the paper substrate to be inserted and removed through the slot 320 that extends through the first side member 215. Also shown in FIG. 5 are opposing straps 290 and 295, as well as strap 325 having adjustment member 330 and locking member 335. The strap 325 is preferably for connecting to strap 310.

FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary holder with a reduced height front portion of the frame. In FIG. 6, another embodiment of the system is illustrated showing holder 600 having base member 605 and attached frame 610. The frame 610 has a first side member 615 with elongated slot 620, second side member 625, third side member 630, and fourth side member 635. The first side member 615 having the slot 620 is comprised of a lesser height than the remaining side members 625, 630, 635 such as to permit easier access within the frame 610 and upon the paper substrate for the child. Although the upper surface of the first side member 615 is lower than the upper surface of the remaining side members 625, 630, 635 in holder 600, the upper surface of the first side member 615 is still raised from the upper surface of the base member 605 such as to restrict movement of the paper substrate and retain the paper substrate centered with the frame 610 and the access opening. Like previous embodiments, the holder 600 also includes attachment structures for attaching the holder 600 to an object. The attachment structures may include, for example a plurality of straps, and exemplary strap 640 with locking member 645 and strap 650 with locking member 655 being shown.

In some embodiments, the slot may be located on a different side of the holder than the one depicted in FIG. 6. For example, the slot 620 may be located on the side adjacent the side member 630 or on the side adjacent the side member 635. In either of these locations the slot 620 may advantageously be conveniently accessed by a user or another person. In an illustrative example, a student using the holder 600 from a position adjacent the side member 615 (having a reduced height) may conveniently insert a substrate into the slot by reaching around from that side of the holder 600. Likewise, the student's parent or teacher may conveniently extract the substrate and replace it while standing on the opposite side of the holder 600 from the student.

In a further embodiment, the slot 620 may be located on the side opposite the side member 615 (having a reduced height). In an illustrative example, the teacher or parent may conveniently insert and/or remove substrates into or from the slot 620 from the corresponding side of the holder 600. Likewise, the student may advantageously not have convenient access to manipulate substrates into or out of the holder 600.

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary holder with inclined frame sides. In FIG. 7, another embodiment of the system is illustrated showing holder 700 having base member 705 and attached frame 710. The frame 710 has a first side member 715 with elongated slot 720, second side member 725, third side member 730, and fourth side member 735. The first side member 715 having the slot 720 has a lesser height than the remaining side members 725, 730, 735 such as to permit easier access within the frame 710 and upon the paper substrate for the child. It should be appropriated that even though the upper surface of the first side member 715 is lower than the upper surface of the remaining side members 725, 730, 735 in holder 700, the upper surface of the first side member 715 is still raised from the upper surface of the base member 705 such as to restrict movement of the paper substrate and retain the paper substrate centered with the frame 710 and the access opening. Also shown in holder 700 are the third side member 730 and the fourth side member 735 being inclined towards the second side member 725 to permit easier access to the contained paper substrate and to limit sharp corners. Like previous embodiments, the holder 700 also includes attachment structures for attaching the holder 700 to an object. The attachment structures comprising, for example a plurality of straps, and exemplary strap 640 with locking member 645 and strap 650 with locking member 655 being shown.

FIG. 8 illustrates an upper perspective view of an exemplary holder with the frame disconnected from the base member. In FIG. 8, another embodiment of the system is illustrated showing holder 800 having base member 805 and frame 810. The frame 810 has a first side member 815 with elongated slot 820, second side member 825, third side member 830, and fourth side member 835. In FIG. 8, the frame 810 is shown disconnected from the base member 805. As exemplarily shown, the base member 805 has connectors 840, 845 which removably connect to respective connectors (not shown) along the underside, bottom, or lower portion of the frame 810. Being able to disconnect the frame 810 from the base member 805 may be useful for a variety of purposes, such as for example, cleaning the base member 805 and/or frame 810, storing the base member 805 and/or frame 810, interchanging the base member 805 with one of different color, size, shape, or attachment structure, or interchanging the frame 810 with one of different color, size, or shape. Various types of connectors 840, 845 along the base member 805 and frame 810 may be utilized, such as snap type, hook and loop, magnetic, latching, hinge, clasp, screw, or bolt may be used. Additionally, more or less connectors may be utilized to removably connect the frame 810 to the base member 805.

Like previous embodiments, the holder 800 also includes attachment structures for attaching the holder 800 to an object. The attachment structures comprising, for example a plurality of straps, and exemplary strap 850 with locking member 855 and strap 860 being shown.

FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary holder having recessed portions, one of which has a cover. In FIG. 9, another embodiment of the system is illustrated showing holder 900 having base member 905 and attached hollow frame 910. The frame 910 has side members 915, 920, 925, 930 as described in reference to other embodiments. The slot (not shown) extends through the side member 915.

The side members 925, 930 are shown with recessed portions 935, 940 extending within the side members 925, 930. The recessed portions 935, 940 extend downwardly from an upper surface of the side members 925, 930. The recessed portions 935, 940 curve inwardly, such as by being concave, and extend inwardly a sufficient depth to hold various writing utensils, such as for example pens, pencils, markers, or other objects, such as for example erasers, rulers, or stencils. The recessed portions 935, 940 may be of various shapes, such as for example box-shaped or triangular. Also illustrated is a cover 945 that operatively extends over recessed portion 940 to cover and/or seal the recessed portion 940. The cover 945 may detach from the frame 910 and reattach using various types of fasteners, such as for example hooks, magnets, or snaps. The cover 945 may move to an open and close position while remaining attached to the frame 910, such as by utilizing a track or hinge system, for example.

FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary holder having a stopping member over the slot to prevent insertion and/or removal of the sheet of paper. In FIG. 10, another embodiment of the system is illustrated showing holder 1000 having base member 1005 and attached hollow frame 1010. The frame 1010 has side member 1015 with an elongated slot 1020 similar to as described in reference to other embodiments.

The slot 1020 is removably sealed or blocked by blocking element 1025. As illustrated, the blocking element 1025 comprises an elongated plate structure that may be inserted within the slot 1020, at least partially. The structure further overhangs the slot 1020 to prevent or restrict insertion and/or removal of the paper substrate to or from the slot 1020 while inserted in a blocking position. Other types of blocking elements may be used, such as for example, a latch, a hinged latch, a retracting slot, or an actuating slot, base member, and/or frame, such as by mechanical, electrical, or pneumatic methods.

Also shown in FIG. 10 are a plurality of attachment structures 1030, comprising suction cups. Various embodiments may include more or fewer attachment structures than here illustrated. The attachment structures may include, for example magnets, latches, hooks, hook and loop fasteners, bolts, straps, or clamps. Some attachment structures may be applied to attach the holder to a vertical wall or surface (e.g., refrigerator, wall). In some examples, the attachment structure may be suitable for substantially horizontal or inclined surfaces (e.g., table tops, ramps, chair seats).

FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary holder holding an electronic tablet. In FIG. 11, another embodiment of the system is illustrated showing holder 1100 having base member and attached hollow frame 1105. The frame 1105 has side members 1110, 1115, 1120, 1125. The frame 1105 in FIG. 11 is for releasably retaining a rectangular three-dimensional object, such as a flat box, electronic tablet, electronic toy, book, or computer, for example. The frame 1105 may or may not include a slot along the outer edge in FIG. 11.

Instead, the three-dimensional object is received within the access opening from above the frame 1105 and through the access opening and retained therein by one or more stationary stop members 1130, 1135. The stop members 1130, 1135 form a diagonal plate in two of the inside corners of the frame 1105 and are spaced above the base member to leave a gap therebetween for insertion of the three-dimensional object. In some embodiments, frame may include two or more stop members to help retain the object against unintentional release.

FIG. 11 also illustrates a retention tab 1140 for retaining another corner or side of the three-dimensional object. The retention tab 1140 is shown as a movable object, such as by being hinged, rotatable directly or by a lever handle, or pivoted on a pin; however the retention tab 1140 may be disconnected from the frame 1105 and/or base member and then reconnected after insertion of the three-dimensional object to hold the object in place. The non-stationary tab 1140 may also be biased magnetically to a position that prevents the unintended release of the object from the frame opening unless the retention force is overcome by a deliberate release action to lengthen a low-permeability path for magnetic flux. In some other embodiments, the non-stationary retention tab 1140 may be spring-biased to a position that substantially prevents the unintended release of the object from the frame opening unless a force is applied to displace the retention member away from the object to be retained.

In FIG. 11, the three-dimensional object comprises an electronic tablet 1145. The tablet 1145 has a border 1150 and a display screen 1155. The border 1150 (the non screen portion) generally makes contact with the stop members 1130, 1135 and tab 1140 to prevent scratching or damaging the display screen 1155 of the tablet 1145.

FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary holder holding a light supply embedded within the base member for illuminating a sheet of paper. In FIG. 12, another embodiment of the system is illustrated showing holder 1200 having a unitary body 1205 generally comprising a base member and raised, hollow frame as described in reference to other embodiments. The body 1205 includes an opening 1210 for viewing a paper substrate inserted within the slot 1215. As illustrated, the inner edges of the body 1205 overhang the slot 1215 to retain the paper substrate within the slot 1215. Although not shown, the slot extends through one of the sides of the body 1205 to permit insertion and removal of the paper substrate.

FIG. 12 also illustrates a light-permeable backing 1220 below the slot 1215 for permitting light to pass through and illuminate the paper substrate. The backing 1220 may be clear, transparent, translucent, or simply light in color. Below the backing 1220 is a light supply 1225 to illuminate the backing 1220 and allow for the paper to be lit and thus viewed more easily. The light supply 1225 may also be useful when tracing upon the paper substrate, wherein two or more paper substrate sheets would be stacked upon the backing 1220. The light supply 1225 may extend below the entire backing 1220 or just a portion of the backing 1220. In some examples, the light supply 1225 may be embedded within one of the sides of the body 1205 or attached to the outside of the body 1205 with the light directed within the opening 1210 and upon the backing 1220 or paper substrate. The light supply 1225 may be powered through DC or AC sources, and may be fluorescent, LED powered, incandescent, or fiber-optic.

FIG. 13 illustrates an electronic embodiment of an exemplary holder. In FIG. 13, another embodiment of the system showing holder 1300 with frame 1305 having opening 1310 leading to base member 1315. On the upper surface of the base member 1315 is a display screen 1320, such as for example an LCD display. The display screen 1320 may be interactive, such as by being comprised of a touch screen structure. The system 1300 may be used for story-telling, teaching, drawing, or various other activities associated with electronic devices.

In an exemplary embodiment shown along the outer edges of the frame 1305 are various electronic controls and hardware. In this example, the hardware and/or controls are shown along the outer edge of the frame 1305. In some examples, the electronics may be embedded within the base and/or the frame 1305, external to the frame 1305 and holder 1300, located along the bottom or sides of the frame 1305, or at different locations along the frame 1305. The depicted figure shows a processor 1325, a memory 1330, a power supply 1335, a peripheral connector 1340, a microphone 1345, a speaker 1350, and controls 1355, 1360, 1365, 1370. These components may cooperate to perform one or more predetermined functions. In some embodiments, these components may receive user inputs, such as from a sensor (e.g., accelerometer, microphone, camera) or other input controls (e.g., keypad, buttons, switches, potentiometers). In response to user inputs, the processor may process the inputs according to a set of instructions, for example, stored in the memory 1330. As a result of the processing the inputs according to the programmed instructions as performed by the processor 1325, for example, the holder 1300 may generate output signals responsive to the input signals. In some examples, the output signals may include recording inputs made by the user. In some embodiments, the output signals may include controlling output devices, such as a backlight, indicator lights, a display device, an audio output device. In some examples an output signal may include transmission of data stored or processed by the processor 1325.

FIG. 14 illustrates an exemplary holder having an attachment structure suitable for attachment to a chair seat. In FIG. 14, another embodiment illustrates a system 1400 showing a method of attaching the holder 1405 to a chair or other horizontal surface. The holder 1405 is angled and attached to an attachment structure 1410. The holder 1405 may comprise various features already described in reference to other embodiments. The attachment structure 1410 may be fixed or removably connected to the holder 1405.

The attachment structure 1410 has a vertical support 1415 extending downwardly and a clamp 1420 attached to the lower end of the vertical support 1415. The clamp 1420 has a first jaw 1425 and a vertically-spaced second jaw 1430. The jaws 1425, 1430 may be movable or stationary. The jaws 1425 may also be opened and closed through manual or powered force. The jaws 1425, 1430 may also vertically move such as to close upon the horizontal surface to be attached. In one embodiment, the jaws 1425, 1430 simply close or attach to the horizontal surface. In another embodiment, the jaws use straps as illustrated in FIG. 14.

As illustrated, a first strap 1435 extends from the first jaw 1425 and has a locking member 1440. A second strap 1445 extends from the second jaw 1430 and has a locking member 1450 to attach to the locking member 1440. The second strap 1445 or first strap 1435 may also have an adjustment member 1455.

The object that the attachment structure 1410 connects to in FIG. 14 is a chair 1460 having a backing 1465, a seat 1470, and legs 1475. In the illustrated method of attachment, the first jaw 1425 and the second jaw 1430 receive respective upper and lower surfaces of the front of the seat 1470 and the straps 1435, 1445 are wrapped around the seat 1470 from front to back and locking members 1440, 1450 connected. The adjustment member 1455 may be adjusted to tighten the straps 1435, 1445 around the seat 1470 so that the holder 1405 and attachment structure 1410 are secure.

FIG. 15 illustrates an exemplary holder having an attachment structure suitable for attachment to a table. In FIG. 15, another embodiment illustrates a system 1500 showing a method of attaching the holder 1505 to a table or other surface. The holder 1505 is shown having a base member 1510 and a frame 1515 similar to as described in reference to other embodiments. The holder 1505 may be level or angled. Illustratively exploded from the holder 1505 and slot (not shown) is a paper substrate 1520. Attached, either fixedly or in a disconnectable manner, to the base member 1510 is a suction attachment structure 1525. The suction attachment 1525 may extend from the base member 1510 directly or via a vertical or angled support. In some examples, a plurality of suction attachments may extend from the base member 1510.

Also illustrated is a table 1530 having a planar top 1535 and a plurality of legs 1540. The suction attachment 1525 is suitable for attaching to the upper surface of the planar top 1535 to retain the holder 1505 in a fixed position relative the table 1530. The embodiment shown in FIG. 15 may be useful, such as when a child is seated at a table at a restaurant or other establishment with tables present.

FIG. 16 illustrates an exemplary holder having an attachment structure suitable for attachment to a shopping cart. In FIG. 16, another embodiment illustrates a system 1600 showing a method of attaching the holder 1605 to a shopping cart. The holder 1605 may comprise various features already described in reference to other embodiments. The attachment structure may be fixed or removably connected to the holder 1605 and includes a first attachment strap 1610, a second attachment strap 1615, and a third attachment strap 1620. More attachment straps may be utilized. The attachment straps 1610, 1615, 1620 may include hooks, hook and loop fasteners, adhesive, or other attachment structures.

Also illustrated in FIG. 16 is a shopping cart 1625 having a basket 1630, a seat 1635, and a handrail 1640. The seat 1635 is generally for holding a child 1645 in a sitting position. The holder 1605 is attached to the handrail 1640, either along the vertical, angled, or horizontal section of the handrail 1640 using the straps 1610, 1615, 1620. The straps 1610, 1615, 1620 may be directly attached to the shopping cart 1625, attach to themselves, or attach to opposing straps, such as by being wrapping around a portion of the shopping cart 1625.

Although various embodiments have been described with reference to the Figures, other embodiments are possible. For example, the upper surface of the base member may be adhesively lined, vertically movable, or otherwise clamping-enabled for retaining the paper substrate in a substantially central position with respect to the access opening. In another example, the holder may be integrally incorporated, for example, into a table top, or into a tray body adapted for insertion into a high chair. The base member accessible through the access opening may also be suitable for use as a food tray, such as before, after, or during a period when the child is using the holder to retain a piece of paper for drawing.

Various portions of the frame and/or base member of the holder may be comprised of various materials, such as wood, plastic, foam, rubber, either alone or in combination. The frame or at least upper portion of the frame may also be lined with a soft or pliable material, such as foam, rubber, or cloth to permit a child to comfortably lean upon the frame and to substantially prevent injury to the child in the case that the child falls upon or hits the frame.

The upper surface of the base member may also have a lining or removable or replaceable liner to aid in keeping the base member clean and clear of markings from writing utensils and from spilled food or drink. Exposed surfaces may be readily cleaned by, for example, spray disinfectants and/or wiping, or by application of a detergent solution (e.g., spray, submersion). In some examples, the liner may be attached to the base member and/or frame or may simply be positioned within the access opening upon the upper surface of the base member.

At times especially younger children can be easily distracted and generally seek attention of either the individuals around them, or they may seek to engage some object, toy, person, or thing. If left unengaged, children may be subject to causing a mess, such as drawing on inappropriate surfaces. Various embodiments described herein may serve to engage children, such as for example while at a dinner table, when seated in a high chair, in a waiting room, while seated in a shopping cart, or while at various other times or locations where the child may benefit from constructive engagement (e.g., drawing) for a period of time.

In various examples, apparatus and associated methods may relate to an entertainment system for engaging the attention of the child while confined to a seat. The system may generally include a holder having an access opening defined by a raised frame and having a slot extending through one side of the frame for insertion/removal of a paper substrate to and from the frame. The inner edges of the frame may overhang the slot and retain the paper substrate within the slot to be accessed via the access opening. The child may draw upon the paper substrate while the frame restricts the child from drawing off of the paper substrate and upon the object that the holder is resting upon. Various attachment structures are also described for attaching the holder to objects, such as for example a table, a chair, and a shopping cart. The holder may also be suited for retaining electronic tablets or books.

In some examples, an entertainment system may be adapted for children. A portable or stationary entertainment station generally for use by a child confined to a seat to and may be for engaging the attention of the child such as to keep the child occupied. In an illustrative example, the entertainment system may include a holder having an access opening, the access opening defined by a raised frame having an insertion and removal slot extending through one side of the frame for insertion and removal of a paper substrate within the frame and centered with the access opening. The inner edges of the frame may overhang the slot and thus overhang the inserted paper substrate to retain the paper substrate to be within the slot and accessible via the access opening. The child may draw or write upon the restrained paper substrate while the raised frame restricts the child from drawing or writing off of the paper and upon the object that the holder is resting upon, such as for example a high chair table. Various attachment structures are also described for attaching the holder to objects, such as for example a table, a chair, and a shopping cart.

A number of implementations have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modification may be made. For example, advantageous results may be achieved if the steps of the disclosed techniques were performed in a different sequence, or if components of the disclosed systems were combined in a different manner, or if the components were supplemented with other components. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A system for storage, insertion, and removal of a sheet of paper and for providing access to said sheet of paper when inserted or stored, said system comprising:

a holder having an access opening;

means for inserting and removing a planar substrate into and from said holder;

means for retaining the planar substrate received through said means for insertion and removal within said holder; and

means for positioning the planar substrate to be accessed through said access opening.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein said means for retaining the planar substrate comprises a raised frame having an upper surface of substantially uniform height around a perimeter of said raised frame.

3. The system of claim 3, wherein said raised frame has an upper surface, said upper surface being non-uniform in height around a perimeter of said raised frame, such that at least a first portion of said upper surface of said raised frame is below or above a second portion of said upper surface of said raised frame.

4. The system of claim 2, wherein said raised frame is at least partially inclined in shape.

5. The system of claim 2, wherein said means for insertion and removal of the planar substrate is comprised of an elongated slot and wherein said means for retaining the planar substrate is comprised of a raised frame, wherein said elongated slot extends through one side of said raised frame.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein said means for retaining the planar substrate comprises:

a raised frame;

at least one fixed retaining element extending inwardly from said raised frame and within said access opening; and

at least one movable retaining element operatively extending inwardly from said raised frame and within said access opening.

7. The system of claim 1, including a means for attaching said holder to an object.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein said means for attaching said holder is comprised of a plurality of straps.

9. The system of claim 7, wherein said means for attaching said holder comprises a suction member.

10. A portable drawing station for a child, the apparatus comprising:

a base member having a lower surface, an upper surface, and an outer perimeter, wherein said outer perimeter has a first edge, a second edge, a third edge, and a fourth edge;

a flat sheet of paper positioned upon said upper surface, wherein said flat sheet of paper has a drawing surface; and

a frame having a first side member, a second side member, a third side member, and a fourth side member, wherein said first side member extends from said first edge, said second side member extends from said second edge, said third side member extends from said third edge, and said fourth side member extends from said fourth edge;

wherein said frame has an outer edge extending along an outside of said first side member, said second side member, said third side member, and said fourth side member and wherein said frame has an inner edge extending along an inside of said first side member, said second side member, said third side member, and said fourth side member;

wherein said frame has a singular slot extending through said first side member and extending underneath said second side member said third side member and said fourth side member such that a width of said slot is less than a width of said outer edge as spanned across said frame and greater than a width of said inner edge as spanned across said frame, wherein said inner edge overhangs said slot;

wherein said slot is for receiving said flat sheet of paper through said outer edge along said first side member and wherein said frame retains said flat sheet of paper upon said upper surface of said base member via said inner edge;

wherein said flat sheet of paper is restricted from passing through said outer edge along said second side member, said third side member, and said fourth side member;

wherein said first side member, said second side member, said third side member, and said fourth side member have heights substantially greater than said flat sheet of paper; and,

wherein said frame has an opening located between said first side member, said second side member, said third side member, and said fourth side member to permit access to said drawing surface of said flat sheet of paper via a drawing utensil.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein at least two side members of said first side member, said second side member, said third side member, and said fourth side member are comprised of different heights.

12. The apparatus of claim 10, including an attachment means extending from said base member.

13. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein said frame has at least one recessed portion extending downwardly from a top surface of said frame.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, said at least one recessed portion has a removable cover.

15. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein said frame is removably connected to said base member.

16. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein said base member and said frame are comprised of a plastic material.

17. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein said frame is comprised of a pliable or soft material.

18. The portable drawing station for a child of claim 10, wherein said slot has a blocking means for preventing insertion or removal of said flat sheet of paper therethrough.

19. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein said upper surface of said base member is at least partially clear and including a light supply directed towards said upper surface for illuminating said flat sheet of paper.

20. A portable drawing station for integral attachment to a child's high chair, said high chair comprising a plurality of legs, a seat, and a back, said apparatus comprising:

a rectangular base member;

a rectangular frame having a central opening and a slot, wherein said frame is attached to said base member, and wherein said frame extends substantially above said base member;

wherein said slot extends through said frame and connects with said central opening such as to permit insertion and removal of a flat sheet of paper through said slot and upon said base member for viewing and drawing upon through said opening of said frame; and,

an attachment member secured in relation to the base member, wherein said attachment member is adapted to couple directly to the high chair.