APPLICATION FOR CARE OF INFANT
Embodiments provide apparatus for care of an infant, the apparatus including a comfort support for returning legs of an infant to fully folded positions relative to the torso.
This application is a continuation-in-part and claims the earliest priority date of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/601,785 filed Nov. 2, 2009 and titled “Apparatus for Care of Infant”, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein. The disclosure relates to apparatus for care of infants.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION1. Field of Invention
Newborns and infants (hereinafter “infants”) generally benefit from periods of sleep. In some aspects, apparatus for care of infants are deficient in promoting periods of sleep. Newborns and infants (hereinafter “infants”) generally benefit from periods of rest. In some aspects, apparatus for care of infants are deficient in promoting periods of rest. For the reasons stated above, and for other reasons stated below which will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the specification, there is a need in the art for improved apparatus for care of infants.
2. Brief Description of the Invention
The above-mentioned shortcomings, disadvantages and problems are addressed herein, which will be understood by reading and studying this specification. In one aspect, embodiments provide apparatus for care of an infant which promote uninterrupted periods of sleep. In one aspect, embodiments provide apparatus for care of an infant which promote relatively undisturbed sleep. In one aspect, embodiments provide apparatus for care of an infant which promote uninterrupted periods of rest. In one aspect, embodiments provide apparatus for care of an infant which promote relatively undisturbed rest.
Apparatus and methods of varying scope are described herein. In addition to the aspects and advantages described in this summary, further aspects and advantages will become apparent by reference to the drawings and by reading the detailed description that follows.
In this detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments which can be practiced. Sufficient detail is described to enable those of ordinary skill to practice the embodiments. It is to be understood that, by reference to the present disclosure, other embodiments can also be practiced by those of ordinary skill. It is to be understood that logical, mechanical and other changes can be made without departing from the scope of the embodiments and the disclosure. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.
Newborns and infants (hereinafter “infants”) generally benefit from periods of sleep. It will be understood that, as used herein, the term “sleep” is intended to be construed broadly to refer, generally, to any state of rest or sleep, without respect to potential distinctions between states of consciousness. As used herein, the term “sleep” is intended to include, but is not limited to, any state of reduced consciousness in which a human rests. It will be understood that, as used herein, the term “sleep” can also include, but is not limited to, various waking states associated with rest, such as, for example, drowsing states of rest and partially waking states of rest. It will be understood that, as used herein, the term “sleep” can also include, but is not limited to, any state of rest or calm.
It is beneficial for various reasons to promote long periods of uninterrupted or continuous sleep for infants. As used herein, “continuous” is intended to describe that an infant sleeps continuously, i.e., without waking, during a period. In other words, an infant is said to sleep “continuously” when a period of sleep is not interrupted by early waking and is not broken up into a plurality of shorter periods of sleep separated by alternating waking periods. It will be understood that the term “continuous sleep” can include a period of sustained deep sleep. It is also beneficial to promote relatively undisturbed sleep by infants. As used herein, “undisturbed” is intended to describe that during sleep or rest, an infant remains relatively quiet, motionless, at ease, and comfortable, and thus does not exhibit restlessness, excessive movement, discomfort, or startled actions in the absence of external stimuli. As described herein, “undisturbed” also refers to the characteristic that, absent external stimuli, an infant does not stir to an extent that interferes with ongoing sleep, move in an uncomfortable manner, or emit cries or other sounds of complaint. It will be understood that the term “undisturbed sleep” can include achievement of QS (Quality Sleep), REM sleep, Stage III or Stage IV sleep.
It will be understood that the legs 19 of infant 2 occupy a “full fetal tuck” position best shown in
Returning to
Returning to
In the specific embodiment shown in
Referring to
Referring to
It will be understood that top portion 104 and bottom portion 108 each include elements of releasable fastener combinations 312. It will be understood that, according to embodiments, top portion 104 and bottom portion 108 can include any suitable releasable fastener combinations 312. In the specific embodiment illustrated in
In the specific embodiment illustrated in
In the specific embodiment illustrated in
In the specific embodiment illustrated in
It will be understood that landing areas 315 are formed of suitable soft mating hook (male) and loop (female) releasable fastener components 318. Soft hook and loop fastener components 318 are suitably soft to avoid irritating the skin or otherwise agitating infant 2. One commercially available product suitable for use as a soft hook and loop fastener component 318 is Soft and Flexible Velcro, available from Textol Systems, Inc. of Carlstadt, N.J.
In the specific embodiment illustrated in
An exemplary chain of events will be described for the legs 19 and the second elastic fabric material 116. First, the legs 19 initially occupy the “full fetal tuck” position with the second elastic fabric material 116 occupies an initial low stretch condition which is snug against the soles 33 of both feet 32 and otherwise generally snug against the sides of the legs 19. Second, when the legs 19 are initially urged by muscular action from the “full fetal tuck” position towards a partially folded position and thus apply dislocation forces to the second elastic fabric material 116, the second elastic fabric material 116 exhibits limited stretchiness and resists being stretched and thus applies opposing resistance forces to the legs 19 through the feet 32 until the dislocation forces exceed the limited stretchiness factor and thus cause the second elastic fabric material 116 to be stretched or dislocated to a stretched condition corresponding to a partially folded position of the legs 19. Third, when muscular forces on the legs 19 are reduced and thus cause dislocation forces generated by the muscles and legs 19 to fall below the resistance forces inherent in the second elastic fabric material 116 when in the stretched condition, the differential resistance forces cause the legs 19 and feet 32 to be urged back to the initial “full fetal tuck” positions as the second elastic fabric material 116 returns from the stretched condition to the initial stretch condition.
It will be understood that, where lower section 108 is positioned about legs 19 and lower torso 14 with the legs 19 each occupying an initial position, the lower section 108 is selectively positionable relative to infant 2 such that the second elastic fabric material 116 in the initial stretch condition is snug against the feet 32 of each leg 19. It will be understood that the “initial position” can be, for example, the “full fetal tuck” position wherein both legs 19 simultaneously occupy the “fully folded” position, or any position wherein the legs 19 occupy any combination of “partially folded” positions. In the specific embodiment illustrated in
Referring to
Referring again to
Pouch 132 and top portion 104 include adjustable locating structure 148. Adjustable locating structure 148 is selectively and adjustably engageable to permit the second elastic fabric material 116 in the initial stretch condition to be positioned or located in the longitudinal direction (indicated by longitudinal axis 219) to be sufficiently snug against portions of feet 32 of legs 19 to cause the second elastic fabric material 116 to exert resistance forces against the feet 32 when either leg 19 is urged by muscular action to attempt to move away from the initial position, the initial position being either the “fully folded” position or any of the numerous possible combinations of “partially folded” positions. In the specific embodiment shown in
Referring to
Referring to
According to embodiments, the adjustable locating structure 148 is selectively configurable by an attendant to be engaged in an anchoring relationship with at least one of the following: the torso 6, the primary support 50, and secondary structure 51 which is independent of infant 2 and primary support 50. The adjustable positioning or adjustable locating structure 148 when engaged in the anchoring relationship is anchored in a substantially fixed relationship with the at least one of the following: the torso 6, the primary support 50, and the secondary structure 51. Upon being anchored in the substantially fixed relationship, the adjustable positioning structure 148 is selectively configurable by an attendant to cooperate with the comfort support 124 to substantially anchor the comfort support 124 in the initial location when the comfort support 124 is repeatedly subjected to displacement forces. The adjustable positioning structure 148 includes anchoring structure 210. Anchoring structure 210 is configured to cooperate in an anchoring relationship with an anchor 215 (shown in
It will be understood that lower portion 108 including swaddle 128 having the second elastic fabric material 116 defining pouch 132 substantially retains the legs 19 in the initial positions by engagement of the swaddle bottom portion 140 with the feet 32 in the initial foot locations. The pouch sidewall 136 defined by the second elastic fabric material 116 is disposed to apply supplemental confining forces against at least one of the following: the ankles 30, the lower legs 26, the knees 28, the upper legs 24, and the hips 16. The supplemental confining forces tend to urge the legs 19 to conform to the full fetal tuck position and to remain in the initial or full fetal tuck position for the purpose of quieting the legs 19 of infant 2. It will be understood that with the legs 19 occupying the initial full fetal tuck position, the second elastic fabric material 116 defines the swaddle 128 in tight relationship with the legs 19 and is temporarily deformable to accommodate momentary displacement of the legs 19 from the initial positions. The swaddle 128 quieting the legs 2 enables infant 2 to sleep continuously without waking and in a relatively undisturbed manner without disruption for relatively long periods. The swaddle 128 also enables infant 2 when awake to rest in a relatively undisturbed manner. Different overall sizes of swaddle 128 and pouch 132 are desired to fit different sizes of infants. For example, premature babies as small as about 3 pounds will require a considerably smaller apparatus 100 providing different amounts of comfort forces than, for example, infants weighing about 20 pounds several months after birth. For example, it is observed that pouch 132 in an initial condition can have a suitable volume of about 1200 to about 1300 cubic centimeters to contain the legs 19 and lower abdomen 14 of an infant weighing about 20 lbs. It will be observed that pouch 132 can be of any suitable volume.
Referring to
Bed system 800 includes secondary rest member 820. Secondary rest member 820 is a minor wedge-shaped member and is suitably formed of the same type of cellular foam material (not shown) as primary inclined support member 802, where the cellular foam material is enclosed in a respective secondary fitted fabric liner 822. Secondary rest member 820 defines a secondary rest surface 824 extending generally perpendicular to inclined upper surface 806 of primary inclined support member 802. Secondary rest member 820 includes a secondary bottom surface 828 which substantially abuts inclined upper surface 806 in face to face relationship therewith. Secondary bottom surface 828 includes a secondary releasable fastener male landing area 830 (shown in
Bed system 800 includes a pair of tertiary side rest members 840 located adjacent infant 2 on inclined upper surface 806. Each of the tertiary side rest members 840 is substantially identical. In the specific embodiment illustrated, tertiary side rest member 840 is a minor elongated, wedge-shaped member and is suitably formed of the same type of cellular foam material (not shown) as primary inclined support member 802, where the cellular foam material is enclosed in a respective secondary fitted fabric liner 842. In the specific embodiment illustrated, each elongated wedge-shaped member has a height of about three (3) inches and an overall length of about twelve (12) inches. It will be understood that different specific dimensions and shapes are contemplated. For example, each tertiary side rest member 840 can have the shape of an elongated block (not shown). Tertiary side rest member 840 defines a tertiary rest surface 844 extending upward from inclined upper surface 806 of primary inclined support member 802. Tertiary rest member 840 includes a tertiary bottom surface 848 which substantially abuts inclined upper surface 806 in face to face relationship therewith. Tertiary bottom surface 848 includes a tertiary releasable fastener male landing area 850 (shown in
Illustrated in
Referring to
Referring to
Apparatus 860 includes a comfort support 876 associated with the leg pouch 873. Comfort support 876 functions as described in detail elsewhere in this disclosure for apparatus 100. Comfort support 876 is configured to return legs 19 of the infant 2 to a fully folded position relative to the torso 6. Comfort support 876 is capable of occupying an initial comfort position corresponding to a fully folded position of the legs 19. Comfort support 876 is movable relative to the initial comfort position to a fully extended position corresponding to an extended position of the legs 19. One of ordinary skill will understand that, in the specific embodiment illustrated in
Apparatus 860 includes anchoring structure 877 configured to substantially return the comfort support 876 to an initial comfort position during a series of extension or displacement cycles wherein muscular activity causes the legs 19 to repeatedly extend and bend. One of ordinary skill will understand that, during displacement cycles, displacement forces are applied against the comfort support 876 when legs 19 of the infant 2 are extended to an extended position from a fully folded position by muscular activity. The anchoring structure 877 is engaged with the torso 6 in an anchoring relationship. In the anchoring relationship, the anchoring structure 877 is retained in a substantially fixed position relative to torso 6. Apparatus 860 includes a second releasable fastener combination 878. Second releasable fastener combination 878 includes a second mating hook and loop releasable fastener combination 879. The second mating hook and loop releasable fastener combination 879 includes a second landing area 880 located on at least one of a right flap 881 and left flap 882. The second mating hook and loop releasable fastener combination 879 when selectively engaged with the second mating landing area 880 defines a portion of the anchoring structure 877. According to a specific embodiment shown in
Apparatus 860 includes a back panel 890 disposed to lay against the back 10 of infant 2 when legs 19 of the infant 2 are received in the leg pouch 873 with the back 10 of infant 2 resting on back panel 890. Back panel 890 is formed of flexible fabric material 871. Back panel 890 has a continuous rear neckline 891 spaced apart from the leg pouch 873 and proximate the neck 892 of infant 2. The rear neckline 891 has a rear neckline midpoint 893. The back panel 890 has a back panel longitudinal axis 894 that divides the back panel 890. The back panel longitudinal axis 894 extending from the rear neckline midpoint 891 to the leg pouch 873. Back panel 890 has a back panel right half 895 located on a right side of the back panel longitudinal axis 894. Back panel 890 has a back panel left half 896 located on a left side of the back panel longitudinal axis 894.
Apparatus 860 includes a right flap 900 extending from the back panel right half 895 in substantially continuous relationship therewith. The right flap 900 includes a right outer panel 901 formed of flexible fabric material 871. Right outer panel 901 has a right outer panel proximal portion 902 joined to the back panel right half 895 in substantially continuous relationship therewith. The right outer panel 901 has a right outer panel distal portion 903 spaced outward in a right direction from the right outer panel proximal portion 902 and back panel 890. The right outer panel 901 has a substantially continuous right outer edge 904. The right outer edge 904 adjoins the back panel 890 at a right outer edge upper terminus 905. The right outer edge upper terminus 905 is proximate the rear neckline 891. The right outer edge 904 adjoins the back panel 890 at the right outer edge upper terminus 905. Opposite the right outer edge upper terminus 905, the right outer edge 904 terminates at a right outer edge lower terminus 906. Right outer edge lower terminus 906 is proximate the lower torso 14. The right outer edge 904 extends and runs outwardly from the rear neckline 891 to the right outer panel distal portion 903. From the right outer panel distal portion 903, the right outer edge 904 returns to the right outer edge lower terminus 906. The right outer panel 901 has a continuous right primary outer surface 907 facing outward or forward relative to torso 6. Right outer panel 904 has a continuous right primary inner surface 908 disposed in opposition to the right primary outer surface 907. The right primary inner surface 908 is disposed against the torso 6. Right flap 900 includes an open right arm hole 909 located in the right outer panel 901 in a location proximate the right shoulder 864. The right arm hole 909 is dimensioned to receive the right arm 866 of infant 2 extending therethrough from inside to outside the right outer panel 901. Right flap 900 includes an open right arm sleeve 910 joined to the right outer panel 901 at right arm hole 909. Right arm sleeve 910 is dimensioned to receive the right arm 866 of infant 2 extending therethrough from the right arm hole 909. Cooperation of right arm hole 909 and right arm sleeve 910 permits right arm 866 of infant 2 to extending therethrough from inside to outside the right outer panel 901.
Apparatus 860 includes a left flap 920 extending from the back panel left half 896 in substantially continuous relationship therewith. The left flap 920 includes a left outer panel 921 formed of flexible fabric material 871. Left outer panel 921 has a left outer panel proximal portion 922 joined to the back panel left half 896 in substantially continuous relationship therewith. The left outer panel 921 has a left outer panel distal portion 923 spaced outward in a left direction from the left outer panel proximal portion 922 and back panel 890. The left outer panel 921 has a substantially continuous left outer edge 924. The left outer edge 924 adjoins the back panel 890 at a left outer edge upper terminus 925. The left outer edge upper terminus 925 is proximate the rear neckline 891. The left outer edge 924 adjoins the back panel 890 at the left outer edge upper terminus 925. Opposite the left outer edge upper terminus 925, the left outer edge 924 terminates at a left outer edge lower terminus 926. Left outer edge lower terminus 926 is proximate the lower torso 14. The left outer edge 924 extends and runs outwardly from the rear neckline 891 to the left outer panel distal portion 923. From the left outer panel distal portion 923, the left outer edge 924 returns to the left outer edge lower terminus 926. The left outer panel 921 has a continuous left primary outer surface 927 facing outward or forward relative to torso 6. Left outer panel 924 has a continuous left primary inner surface 928 disposed in opposition to the left primary outer surface 927. The left primary inner surface 928 is disposed against the torso 6. Left flap 900 includes an open left arm hole 929 located in the left outer panel 921 in a location proximate the left shoulder 865. The left arm hole 929 is dimensioned to receive the left arm 867 of infant 2 extending therethrough from inside to outside the left outer panel 921. Left flap 920 includes an open left arm sleeve 930 joined to the left outer panel 921 at left arm hole 929. Left arm sleeve 930 is dimensioned to receive the left arm 867 of infant 2 extending therethrough from the left arm hole 929. Cooperation of left arm hole 929 and left arm sleeve 930 permits left arm 867 of infant 2 to extend therethrough from inside to outside the left outer panel 921.
Apparatus 860 for care of an infant 2 includes a first releasable fastener combination 931 configured to releasably secure at least one of the right flap 900 and left flap 920 in a respective folded over position. One of ordinary skill will understand that, in the folded over position, the at least one of the right flap 900 and left flap 920 is folded over the torso 6 to a side opposite the at least one of the right flap 900 and left flap 920. Apparatus 860 includes the first releasable fastener combination 931 configured to indirectly releasably secure the other of the right flap 900 and left flap 920 in a respective folded over position by releasably securing the at least one of the right flap 900 and left flap 920 in the respective folded over position in an overlapping relationship with the other of the right flap 900 and left flap 920. More particularly, apparatus 860 for care of an infant 2 includes the first releasable fastener combination 931 including a first mating hook and loop releasable fastener combination 932. The first mating hook and loop releasable fastener combination 932 includes a first landing area 933 located across the torso 6 opposite from the at least one of the right flap 900 and left flap 920. The first mating hook and loop releasable fastener combination 932 includes a first mating landing area 934 located on the at least one of the right flap 900 and left flap 920 in mating relationship with the first landing area 933 when the at least one of the right flap 900 and left flap 920 occupies the respective folded over position.
Illustrated in
Referring to
Apparatus 940 includes comfort support 946 associated with the leg pouch 943. Comfort support 946 is as elsewhere described herein respective comfort supports for apparatus 100 and apparatus 860, and will not be further described here. The comfort support 876 is configured to return legs 19 of the infant 2 to a fully folded position relative to the torso 6. The comfort support 946 is capable of occupying an initial comfort position corresponding to a fully folded position of the legs 19. The comfort support 946 is movable relative to the initial comfort position to a fully extended position. The fully extended position corresponding to an extended position of the legs 19.
Apparatus 940 includes anchoring structure 947 configured to substantially return the comfort support 946 to an initial comfort position during a series of displacement cycles. During displacement cycles, displacement forces are applied against the comfort support 946 when legs 19 of the infant 2 are extended to an extended position from a fully folded position by muscular activity. The anchoring structure 947 is engaged with the torso 6 in an anchoring relationship. In the anchoring relationship, the anchoring structure 947 is retained in a substantially fixed position relative to the torso 6. Anchoring structure 947 is as elsewhere described herein respective anchoring structures for apparatus 100 and apparatus 860, and will not be further described here.
Apparatus 940 includes back panel 960 disposed to lay against the back 10 of infant 2 when legs 19 of the infant 2 are received in the leg pouch 943 with the back 10 of the infant 2 resting on the back panel 960. The back panel 960 is formed of flexible fabric material 871. Back panel 960 has a continuous rear neckline 961 spaced apart from the leg pouch 943. Rear neckline 961 is proximate the neck 962 of the infant 2. The rear neckline 891 has a rear neckline midpoint 963. Back panel 960 has a back panel longitudinal axis 964 extending from the rear neckline midpoint 964 to the leg pouch 943 and divides back panel 960 into a back panel right half 965 located on a right side of the back panel longitudinal axis 964 and a back panel left half 966 located on a left side of the back panel longitudinal axis 964.
Apparatus 940 includes right arm containing structure 967 configured to receive the right arm 866 of the infant 2. The right arm containing structure 967 includes a right outer panel 971 formed of flexible fabric material 871. Right outer panel 971 has a right outer panel proximal portion 972 joined with the back panel right half 965 in substantially continuous relationship therewith. Right outer panel 971 has a right outer panel distal portion 973 spaced outward in a right direction from the right outer panel proximal portion 972 and back panel 960. The right outer panel 971 has a substantially continuous right outer edge 974. The right outer edge adjoins the back panel 960 at a right outer edge upper terminus 975 proximate the rear neckline 961. The right outer edge 974 adjoins the back panel 960 at the right outer edge upper terminus 975. The right outer edge 974 terminating at a right outer edge lower terminus 976. The right outer edge lower terminus 976 is proximate a right hip 861 of the infant 2. The right outer edge 974 extends outwardly from the rear neckline 961 to the right outer panel distal portion 973. From the right outer panel distal portion 973, the right outer edge 974 returns to the right outer edge lower terminus 976. The right outer panel 971 has a continuous right primary outer surface 977. The right outer panel 971 has a continuous right primary inner surface 978 disposed in opposition to the right primary outer surface 977.
The right arm containing structure 967 includes a right inner panel formed of flexible fabric material 871. The right inner panel 967 is disposed in substantially parallel relation to the right outer panel 971. The right inner panel 967 is joined with the right outer panel 971 proximate the right outer edge 974 along a substantially continuous right arm pocket seam 980. The right arm pocket seam 980 terminates at a right arm pocket upper terminus 981. In the embodiment illustrated in
Apparatus 940 includes left arm containing structure 987 configured to receive the left arm 867 of the infant 2. The left arm containing structure 987 is substantially a mirror image of the right arm containing structure 967. Left arm containing structure 987 includes left outer panel 953 having left outer edge 954, left inner panel 988 having left inner terminal edge 989, and left arm seam pocket 955 extending substantially along left outer edge 954. An open left arm pocket mouth 956 is defined between left inner terminal edge 989 and left outer panel 953. Left arm pocket 990 is defined between left outer panel 953, left inner panel 988, left inner terminal edge 989 and left arm pocket seam 955. The left arm 867 is inserted into left arm pocket 990. With the left arm 867 bent inwardly toward the torso 6 at the left shoulder 865 a portion of the respective left inner panel 988 is disposed intermediate the left arm 867 and torso 6 with the left inner terminal edge 989 located intermediate the left shoulder 865 and left. The left inner panel 988 being so disposed functions to prevent the left hand from contacting and scratching the torso 6 when the left arm containing structure 987 is folded over across the torso 6 to the side opposite. The left inner terminal edge 989 being so located prevents the left arm 867 from being withdrawn from the left arm pocket 990 when the left arm containing structure 987 is folded over across the torso 6 to the side opposite.
Apparatus 940 for care of an infant 2 includes a first releasable fastener combination 991 configured to releasably secure at least one of the right arm containing structure 967 and the left arm containing structure 987 in a respective folded over position, in the folded over position the at least one of the right arm containing structure 967 and the left arm containing structure 987 being folded across the torso 6 to a side opposite. Apparatus 940 includes the first releasable fastener combination 991 configured to releasably secure at least one of the right arm containing structure 967 and the left arm containing structure 987 in a respective primary relaxed folded over position, in the primary relaxed folded over position the at least one of the right arm pocket 985 and the left arm pocket 990 being sufficiently relaxed to permit movement of the respective right arm 866 or left arm 867 within respective of the right arm pocket 9845 and left arm pocket 990. Apparatus 940 includes the first releasable fastener combination 991 configured to indirectly releasably secure the other of the right arm containing structure 967 and left arm containing structure 987 in a respective relaxed folded over position by releasably securing the at least one of the right arm containing structure 967 and the left arm containing structure 987 in the respective relaxed folded over position in an overlapping relationship with the other of the right arm containing structure 967 and the left arm containing structure 987. More particularly, according to an embodiment shown in
According to the embodiment shown in
Apparatus 940 for care of an infant 2 includes anchoring structure 947. Anchoring structure 947 includes a first anchoring portion 997 configured for releasable engagement with at least one of the comfort support 946 and the leg pouch 943 to retain the comfort support 946 in a fixed position relative to the anchoring structure 947. The anchoring structure 947 includes second anchoring portion configured for releasable engagement with at least one of the right arm containing structure 967 and the left arm containing structure 987 to retain the first anchoring portion 998 in a fixed position relative to the at least one of the right arm containing structure 967 and the left arm containing structure 987. The first anchoring portion 998, more particularly, includes a first anchoring releasable fastener combination 948 configured for releasable engagement with at least one of the comfort support 946 and the leg pouch 943 to retain the comfort support 946 in a fixed position relative to the anchoring structure 947. The second anchoring portion 999 includes a second anchoring releasable fastener combination 949 configured for releasable engagement with at least one of the right arm containing structure 967 and the left arm containing structure 987 to retain the first anchoring portion 998 in a fixed position relative to the at least one of the right arm containing structure 967 and the left arm containing structure 987. The first anchoring releasable fastener combination 948 includes a respective first mating hook and loop fastener combination 950 configured for releasable engagement with at least one of the comfort support 946 and the leg pouch 943 to retain the comfort support 946 in a fixed position relative to the anchoring structure 947. The second anchoring releasable fastener combination 949 is configured for releasable engagement with at least one of the right arm containing structure 967 and the left arm containing structure 987 to retain the first anchoring portion 998 in a fixed position relative to the at least one of the right arm containing structure 967 and the left arm containing structure 987. Anchoring structure 947 includes at least one belt member 951 proximate the lower torso 14. In the specific embodiment shown in
According to embodiments, apparatus for care of an infant are described. According to embodiments, apparatus for support of an infant are described. Although specific embodiments are illustrated and described herein, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that any arrangement which is calculated to achieve the same purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that implementations can be made for other embodiments that provide the required function. In particular, one of skill in the art will readily appreciate that names of apparatus are not intended to limit embodiments. Furthermore, additional apparatus can be added to the components, functions can be rearranged among the components, and new components corresponding to future enhancements and physical devices used in embodiments can be introduced, without departing from the scope of embodiments. The terminology used in this application is meant to include all environments and alternate technologies which provide the same functionality as described herein.
Claims
1. Apparatus for care of an infant, the infant having a torso, at least a portion of the torso being engaged by a primary support, the primary support being independent of the infant, the primary support supporting the torso, the torso having a front, the torso having a back, the back being spaced from the front in general opposition thereto, the torso including an upper torso, the upper torso including a neck, a head and a pair of arms, the torso including a lower torso adjoining the upper torso, the lower torso including a pair of hips, the infant having a pair of legs joined to the lower torso at the hips, each leg having an upper leg, each hip cooperating with a respective upper leg at a respective flexible hip joint, the upper leg being supported by the hip joint for flexing motion of the upper leg relative to the lower torso between a fully extended position and a fully folded position, each leg having a lower leg, each leg having a folding knee joint, the knee joint being located intermediate the upper leg and the lower leg, the lower leg being supported by the knee joint for folding motion relative to the upper leg between a fully extended position and a fully folded position, the lower leg including an ankle joint spaced below the knee joint, each leg including a foot, the foot being supported by the ankle joint for flexing motion of the foot relative to the lower leg, the apparatus comprising:
- a comfort support adapted to support each of the legs relative to the lower torso in a respective initial position, in the initial positions of the legs each of the upper legs occupying an initial folded position relative to the lower torso, in the initial folded position each of the upper legs being flexed at the hip joint relative to the lower torso, in the initial positions of the legs each of the feet occupying a respective initial foot location relative to the torso, said comfort support being selectively configurable relative to the infant in an initial comfort location, the initial comfort location of the comfort support corresponding to the initial positions of the legs, said comfort support in the initial comfort location engaging each of the feet when the feet occupy the initial foot locations, when engaging the feet said comfort support applying against the feet respective resistance forces, the resistance forces urging the feet to occupy the initial foot locations such that the upper legs are urged to occupy the initial folded positions, said comfort support being engageable by the feet for the feet to apply displacement forces against said comfort support, the displacement forces being caused by muscular activity of the legs, the displacement forces urging said comfort support to be displaced from the initial comfort location; and
- adjustable positioning structure, said adjustable positioning structure being selectively configurable by an attendant to cooperate with said comfort support to substantially retain said comfort support in the initial comfort location when said comfort support is repeatedly subjected to the displacement forces, at least one of said adjustable positioning structure and said comfort support being selectively configurable by an attendant to free said comfort support for substantial movement relative to the infant, said comfort support when free being movable relative to the infant to be displaced from the initial comfort location when said comfort support is repeatedly subjected to the displacement forces.
2. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 1 and further comprising:
- said comfort support being substantially retained in the initial comfort location during a comfort period, the comfort support being selectively releasable from retention by an attendant, the comfort support when released being substantially moveable away from the initial comfort location by displacement forces.
3. Apparatus according to claim 1 and further comprising:
- said adjustable positioning structure being selectively configurable by an attendant to be engaged in an anchoring relationship with the torso, said adjustable positioning structure when engaged in an anchoring relationship with the torso also being releasably engageable with said comfort support to locate the comfort support in the initial comfort location, said adjustable positioning structure when engaged with said comfort support to locate the comfort support in the initial comfort location substantially retaining the comfort support in the initial comfort location during a comfort period.
4. Apparatus according to claim 1 and further comprising:
- said comfort support including a pouch,
- said adjustable positioning structure being selective configurable to initially position said pouch in an initial comfort location relative to a longitudinal axis of the infant.
5. Apparatus according to claim 4 and further comprising:
- said pouch having a substantially closed pouch bottom, said pouch having an upper edge, said upper edge defining an open mouth in opposition to the pouch bottom, the open mouth being dimensioned to receive legs of an infant occupying a full fetal tuck position;
- said adjustable positioning structure being selectively configurable to locate one of said pouch bottom and said pouch upper edge in an initial comfort position relative to the longitudinal axis, said adjustable positioning structure being said releasably engageable to substantially retain the one of said pouch bottom and said pouch upper edge in the initial comfort location until released.
6. Apparatus according to claim 5 and further comprising:
- a primary releasable fastener combination having a primary releasable female landing area fixed to said pouch, said primary releasable fastener combination having a first male landing area fixed to an anchoring structure, the anchoring structure engaging the torso in a manner supporting the primary releasable fastener combination relative to the longitudinal axis to substantially support said pouch in an initial comfort location relative to a longitudinal axis of the infant when the primary releasable female landing area is mating engaged with the primary releasable male landing area, when engaged with the primary releasable female landing area the primary releasable male landing area substantially retaining said pouch in an initial comfort location relative to a longitudinal axis of the infant.
7. Apparatus according to claim 6 and further comprising:
- a secondary releasable fastener combination having a secondary releasable female landing area fixed to the anchoring structure, said secondary releasable fastener combination having a secondary male landing area being in a fixed structural relationship with the primary releasable male landing area, the anchoring structure engaging the torso in a manner supporting the secondary releasable fastener combination relative to the longitudinal axis to substantially support said primary releasable fastener combination in an primary fastener initial location relative to a longitudinal axis of the infant when the secondary releasable female landing area is in mating engagement with the secondary releasable male landing area, when engaged with the secondary releasable female landing area the secondary releasable male landing area substantially retaining said primary releasable male landing area in a primary fastener initial location relative to a longitudinal axis of the infant, the primary fastener initial location corresponding to the initial comfort position.
8. Apparatus according to claim 6 and further comprising:
- the anchoring structure including a top portion formed of first fabric material tightly engaging the torso such that the primary releasable male landing area occupies a substantially fixed location relative to the longitudinal axis.
9. Apparatus for care of an infant, the infant having a torso, at least a portion of the torso being engaged by a primary support, the primary support being independent of the infant, the primary support supporting the torso, the torso having a front, the torso having a back, the back being spaced from the front in general opposition thereto, the torso including an upper torso, the upper torso including a neck, a head and a pair of arms, the torso including a lower torso adjoining the upper torso, the lower torso including a pair of hips, the infant having a pair of legs joined to the lower torso at the hips, each leg having an upper leg, each hip cooperating with a respective upper leg at a respective flexible hip joint, the upper leg being supported by the hip joint for flexing motion of the upper leg relative to the lower torso between a fully extended position and a fully folded position, each leg having a lower leg, each leg having a folding knee joint, the knee joint being located intermediate the upper leg and the lower leg, the lower leg being supported by the knee joint for folding motion relative to the upper leg between a fully extended position and a fully folded position, the lower leg including an ankle joint spaced below the knee joint, each leg including a foot, the foot being supported by the ankle joint for flexing motion of the foot relative to the lower leg, the apparatus comprising:
- a pouch configured to enclose both legs in the fully folded position, the pouch defining a comfort support adapted to support each of the legs relative to the lower torso in the fully folded position, in the fully folded position each of the upper legs being fully flexed at the hip, in the fully folded position each of the feet occupying a respective initial foot location, said comfort support being selectively configurable relative to the infant in an initial comfort location, in the initial comfort location the comfort support said comfort support applying against the feet respective resistance forces urging the legs to occupy fully folded positions, said comfort support being engageable by the feet to apply displacement forces against said comfort support, the displacement forces being caused by muscular activity of the legs, the displacement forces tending to urge said comfort support to be displaced from the initial comfort location;
- adjustable positioning structure, said adjustable positioning structure being selective configurable to initially position said pouch in an initial comfort location relative to a longitudinal axis of the infant, said adjustable positioning structure being selectively configurable to cooperate with said comfort support to substantially retain said comfort support in the initial comfort location when said comfort support is repeatedly subjected to the displacement forces, at least one of said adjustable positioning structure and said comfort support being selectively configurable to free said comfort support for substantial movement relative to the infant, said comfort support when free being movable to be displaced relative to the longitudinal axis by repeated displacement forces;
- said adjustable positioning structure being selectively configurable to be engaged in an anchoring relationship with the torso, said adjustable positioning structure when engaged in an anchoring relationship with the torso also being releasably engageable with said comfort support to locate the comfort support in the initial comfort location, said adjustable positioning structure when engaged with said comfort support to locate the comfort support in the initial comfort location substantially retaining the comfort support in the initial comfort location during a comfort period;
- said pouch having a substantially closed pouch bottom, said pouch having an upper edge, said upper edge defining an open mouth in opposition to the pouch bottom, the open mouth being dimensioned to receive legs of an infant occupying a full fetal tuck position; and
- said adjustable positioning structure being selectively configurable to locate said pouch bottom in an initial comfort position relative to the longitudinal axis, said adjustable positioning structure being releasably engageable to substantially retain the said pouch bottom in the initial comfort location.
10. Apparatus according to claim 6 and further comprising:
- said comfort support being substantially retained in the initial comfort location during a comfort period, the comfort support being selectively releasable from retention by an attendant, the comfort support when released being substantially moveable away from the initial comfort location by displacement forces.
11. Apparatus according to claim 9 and further comprising:
- said adjustable positioning structure including a primary releasable fastener combination having a primary releasable female landing area fixed to said pouch, said primary releasable fastener combination having a first male landing area fixed to an anchoring structure, the anchoring structure engaging the torso in a manner supporting the primary releasable fastener combination relative to the longitudinal axis to substantially support said pouch in an initial comfort location relative to a longitudinal axis of the infant when the primary releasable female landing area is mating engaged with the primary releasable male landing area, when engaged with the primary releasable female landing area the primary releasable male landing area substantially retaining said pouch in an initial comfort location relative to a longitudinal axis of the infant.
12. Apparatus according to claim 11 and further comprising:
- said adjustable positioning structure including a secondary releasable fastener combination having a secondary releasable female landing area fixed to the anchoring structure, said secondary releasable fastener combination having a secondary male landing area being in a fixed structural relationship with the primary releasable male landing area, the anchoring structure engaging the torso in a manner supporting the secondary releasable fastener combination relative to the longitudinal axis to substantially support said primary releasable fastener combination in an primary fastener initial location relative to a longitudinal axis of the infant when the secondary releasable female landing area is in mating engagement with the secondary releasable male landing area, when engaged with the secondary releasable female landing area the secondary releasable male landing area substantially retaining said primary releasable male landing area in a primary fastener initial location relative to a longitudinal axis of the infant, the primary fastener initial location corresponding to the initial comfort position.
13. Apparatus according to claim 11 and further comprising:
- the anchoring structure including a top portion formed of first fabric material and configured for tight engagement with the torso, such that the primary releasable male landing area occupies a substantially fixed location relative to the longitudinal axis when the top portion is tightly engaged with the torso.
14. Apparatus for care of an infant, the infant having a torso, the torso having a longitudinal axis, at least a portion of the torso being engaged by a primary support, the primary support being independent of the infant, the primary support supporting the torso, the torso having a front, the torso having a back, the back being spaced from the front in general opposition thereto, the torso including an upper torso, the upper torso including a neck, a head and a pair of arms, the torso including a lower torso adjoining the upper torso, the lower torso including a pair of hips, the infant having a pair of legs joined to the lower torso at the hips, each leg having an upper leg, each hip cooperating with a respective upper leg at a respective flexible hip joint, the upper leg being supported by the hip joint for flexing motion of the upper leg relative to the lower torso between a fully extended position and a fully folded position, each leg having a lower leg, each leg having a folding knee joint, the knee joint being located intermediate the upper leg and the lower leg, the lower leg being supported by the knee joint for folding motion relative to the upper leg between a fully extended position and a fully folded position, the lower leg including an ankle joint spaced below the knee joint, each leg including a foot, the foot being supported by the ankle joint for flexing motion of the foot relative to the lower leg, the apparatus comprising:
- anchoring structure including a top portion formed of first fabric material and configured for tight engagement with the torso, the top portion occupying a substantially fixed location relative to the longitudinal axis when the top portion is tightly engaged with the torso;
- a pouch configured to enclose both legs in the fully folded position, said pouch having a substantially closed pouch bottom, said pouch having an upper edge, said upper edge defining an open mouth in opposition to the pouch bottom, the open mouth being dimensioned to receive legs of an infant occupying a full fetal tuck position, the pouch bottom defining a comfort support adapted to support each of the legs relative to the lower torso in the fully folded position, in the fully folded position each of the upper legs being fully flexed at the hip, in the fully folded position each of the feet occupying a respective initial foot location, said comfort support being selectively configurable relative to the infant in an initial comfort location, in the initial comfort location the comfort support said comfort support applying against the feet respective resistance forces urging the legs to occupy fully folded positions, said comfort support being engageable by the feet to apply displacement forces against said comfort support, the displacement forces being caused by muscular activity of the legs, the displacement forces tending to urge said comfort support to be displaced from the initial comfort location;
- adjustable positioning structure, said adjustable positioning structure being selective configurable to initially position said pouch in an initial comfort location relative to a longitudinal axis of the infant, said adjustable positioning structure being selectively configurable to cooperate with said comfort support to substantially retain said comfort support in the initial comfort location when said comfort support is repeatedly subjected to the displacement forces, at least one of said adjustable positioning structure and said comfort support being selectively configurable to free said comfort support for substantial movement relative to the infant, said comfort support when free being movable to be displaced relative to the longitudinal axis by repeated displacement forces;
- said adjustable positioning structure being selectively configurable to be engaged in an anchoring relationship with the anchoring structure, said adjustable positioning structure when engaged in an anchoring relationship with the torso also being releasably engageable with said comfort support to locate the comfort support in the initial comfort location, said adjustable positioning structure when engaged with said comfort support to locate the comfort support in the initial comfort location substantially retaining the comfort support in the initial comfort location during a comfort period; and
- said adjustable positioning structure being selectively configurable to locate said pouch bottom in an initial comfort position relative to the longitudinal axis, said adjustable positioning structure being releasably engageable to substantially retain the said pouch bottom in the initial comfort location.
15. Apparatus according to claim 14 and further comprising:
- the comfort support being selectively releasable from retention by an attendant, the comfort support when released being substantially moveable away from the initial comfort location by displacement forces.
16. Apparatus according to claim 14 and further comprising:
- said adjustable positioning structure including a primary releasable fastener combination joined to said pouch, said primary releasable fastener combination being joined to the anchoring structure, the anchoring structure engaging the torso in a manner supporting the primary releasable fastener combination relative to the longitudinal axis to substantially support said pouch in an initial comfort location relative to a longitudinal axis of the infant when the primary releasable fastener combination is mating engaged.
17. Apparatus according to claim 16 and further comprising:
- said adjustable positioning structure including a primary releasable fastener combination having a primary releasable female landing area fixed to said pouch, said primary releasable fastener combination having a first male landing area fixed to an anchoring structure, the anchoring structure engaging the torso in a manner supporting the primary releasable fastener combination relative to the longitudinal axis to substantially support said pouch in an initial comfort location relative to a longitudinal axis of the infant when the primary releasable female landing area is mating engaged with the primary releasable male landing area, when engaged with the primary releasable female landing area the primary releasable male landing area substantially retaining said pouch in an initial comfort location relative to a longitudinal axis of the infant.
18. Apparatus according to claim 17 and further comprising:
- said adjustable positioning structure including a secondary releasable fastener combination having a secondary releasable female landing area fixed to the anchoring structure, said secondary releasable fastener combination having a secondary male landing area being in a fixed structural relationship with the primary releasable male landing area, the anchoring structure engaging the torso in a manner supporting the secondary releasable fastener combination relative to the longitudinal axis to substantially support said primary releasable fastener combination in an primary fastener initial location relative to a longitudinal axis of the infant when the secondary releasable female landing area is in mating engagement with the secondary releasable male landing area, when engaged with the secondary releasable female landing area the secondary releasable male landing area substantially retaining said primary releasable male landing area in a primary fastener initial location relative to a longitudinal axis of the infant, the primary fastener initial location corresponding to the initial comfort position.
19. Apparatus according to claim 16 and further comprising:
- said primary releasable fastener combination including at least one of the following:
- a tie, a fastener, hook and loop material, a button, a zipper, a hook, a strap, a buckle, a carabiner, an eyelet, a clip, and a pin.
20. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 14 and further comprising said adjustable positioning structure being selectively configurable to cooperate with said swaddle to substantially retain said swaddle bottom in the initial comfort location when said swaddle bottom is repeatedly subjected to the displacement forces.
- a swaddle defining the pouch, the pouch having an open interior configured to receive the legs, said swaddle having a swaddle bottom, with the legs in the fully folded positions, said swaddle bottom being selectively positionable in the initial comfort location, the initial comfort location of the swaddle bottom corresponding to the fully folded positions of the legs, said swaddle bottom in the initial comfort location applying against the feet resistance forces, the resistance forces urging the feet to occupy the initial foot locations such that the legs are urged to occupy the fully folded positions, said swaddle bottom being engageable by the feet for the feet to apply displacement forces against said swaddle bottom, the displacement forces being caused by muscular activity of the legs, the displacement forces tending to urge said swaddle bottom to be displaced from the initial comfort location;
21. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 20 and further comprising
- first elastic fabric material joined in fixed relationship with the second elastic fabric material at an upper portion of said swaddle, said swaddle upper portion being defined opposite said swaddle bottom, said swaddle upper portion being located generally adjacent the lower torso, said first elastic fabric material defining at least one conforming section, said at least one conforming section being defined to conform to said torso to quiet the arms in relationship to the torso.
22. Apparatus for care of an infant, said apparatus comprising:
- an upper cocoon section defined by a first elastic fabric material, said upper cocoon section being defined in conforming relationship with a torso of the infant to establish a tight relationship between said upper cocoon section and the torso to quiet arms of the infant against the torso;
- a lower pouch defined by a second elastic fabric material, said lower pouch having a pouch bottom portion, said pouch bottom portion being locatable in an initial pouch bottom position relative to feet of the infant to engage the feet in initial foot locations, the initial foot locations being associated with fully folded positions of the legs relative to the torso, said pouch bottom portion being supported to return to the initial pouch bottom position when dislocated due to repeated applications of dislocation forces by the feet, said pouch bottom portion generating resistance forces against the feet to return the feet to the initial foot locations to return the legs to the fully folded positions relative to the torso, said pouch bottom portion generating the resistance forces against the feet until a time when the pouch bottom portion is freed, when the pouch bottom is freed the pouch bottom being susceptible to dislocation movement away from the initial pouch bottom position without returning to the initial pouch bottom position upon exposure to repeated application of dislocation forces by the feet.
23. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 22, and further comprising:
- locating structure intermediate said pouch bottom portion and said upper portion, said locating structure including a fastener configured to engage at least one of said upper portion and said lower portion, said locating structure being configured for an attendant to selectively locate the pouch bottom portion against the feet in the initial foot locations.
24. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 22, and further comprising:
- anchoring structure configured to anchor the pouch bottom portion in relation to the hip joint such that said pouch bottom portion is returned to the initial pouch bottom position when dislocated by repeated application of dislocation forces by the feet.
25. Apparatus for care of an infant, the infant having a torso, the infant having a head attached to the torso, the infant having legs attached to the torso in spaced relationship to the head, the torso having a spine, the torso having a longitudinal axis extending in the direction of the spine, the torso having a back, the apparatus comprising:
- a primary support member defining an inclined upper surface, the inclined upper surface being configured to support the back of the infant when the infant occupies a supine position;
- the inclined support surface including an infant bay dimensioned to receive the infant in the supine position; and
- a secondary rest member positionable adjacent to the infant bay to prevent the infant from sliding down the inclined upper surface, the secondary rest member having a rest surface extending upward relative to the inclined upper surface to engage a rump area of the infant when the legs of the infant occupy a full fetal tuck position, the secondary rest member being releasably engageable with the primary support member for selectively positioning the rest surface relative to the infant bay.
26. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 25 and further comprising:
- a spaced pair of tertiary rest members located on opposite sides of the torso to prevent side to side displacement of the infant from the infant bay, each of the tertiary rest members having a tertiary rest surface extending upward relative to the inclined upper surface to engage a respective side of the torso, each of the tertiary rest members being releasably engageable with the primary support member for selectively positioning the tertiary rest surfaces relative to the infant bay.
27. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 25 and further comprising:
- the secondary rest member and the tertiary rest members each including a respective landing area of first component of a releasable mating hook and loop fastener combination, the inclined upper surface including a plurality of landing areas of a second component of a releasable mating hook and loop fastener component for selectively positioning the secondary rest member and the tertiary rest members relative to the infant bay.
28. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 25 and further comprising:
- the secondary rest member including a respective landing area of first component of a releasable mating hook and loop fastener combination for mating engagement with a landing area of a second component of a releasable mating hook and loop fastener, the landing area of the second component of a releasable mating hook and loop fastener component being joined to the exterior of apparatus including a swaddle.
29. Apparatus for care of an infant, the infant having a torso, the infant having a pair of legs supported by the torso for folding movement relative to the torso, comprising:
- a comfort support configured to return legs of the infant to a fully folded position relative to the torso; and
- anchoring structure configured to substantially return the comfort support to an initial comfort position during repeating displacement cycles, during each displacement cycle displacement forces being applied against the comfort support when legs of the infant are extended to the torso to an extended position from the fully folded position by muscular activity, the anchoring structure engaging the torso in an anchoring relationship.
30. Apparatus for care of an infant, the infant having a torso, the infant having a pair of legs supported by the torso for folding movement relative to the torso, the infant having a right arm supported by the torso at a right shoulder, the infant having a left arm supported by the torso at a left shoulder, each arm having an inner side facing the torso, each arm having an outer side disposed in opposition to the inner side thereof, said apparatus comprising:
- a leg pouch configured to receive legs of the infant, the leg pouch formed of flexible fabric material;
- a comfort support associated with the leg pouch, the comfort support configured to return legs of the infant to a fully folded position relative to the torso, the comfort support being capable of occupying an initial comfort position, the initial comfort position corresponding to a fully folded position of the legs, the comfort support being movable relative to the initial comfort position to a fully extended position, the fully extended position corresponding to an extended position of the legs;
- anchoring structure configured to substantially return the comfort support to an initial comfort position during a series of displacement cycles, during displacement cycles displacement forces being applied against the comfort support when legs of the infant are extended to an extended position from a fully folded position by muscular activity, the anchoring structure being engaged with the torso in an anchoring relationship, in the anchoring relationship the anchoring structure being retained in a substantially fixed position relative to the torso;
- a back panel disposed to lay against the back of the infant when legs of the infant are received in the leg pouch with the back of the infant resting on the back panel, the back panel being formed of flexible fabric material, the back panel having a continuous rear neckline spaced apart from the leg pouch, the rear neckline being proximate the neck of the infant, the rear neckline having a rear neckline midpoint, the back panel having a back panel longitudinal axis, the back panel being divided by the back panel longitudinal axis extending from the rear neckline midpoint to the leg pouch, the back panel having a back panel right half located on a right side of the back panel longitudinal axis, the back panel having a back panel left half located on a left side of the back panel longitudinal axis;
- right arm containing structure configured to receive the right arm of the infant, the right arm containing structure including a right outer panel formed of flexible fabric material, the right outer panel having a right outer panel proximal portion joined to the back panel right half in substantially continuous relationship therewith, the right outer panel having a right outer panel distal portion spaced outward in a right direction from the right outer panel proximal portion, the right outer panel having a substantially continuous right outer edge, the right outer edge adjoining the back panel at a right outer edge upper terminus, the right outer edge upper terminus being proximate the rear neckline, the right outer edge adjoining the back panel at the right upper terminus, the right outer edge terminating at a right outer edge lower terminus, the right outer edge lower terminus being proximate a right hip of the infant, the right outer edge extending outwardly from the rear neckline to the right outer panel distal portion, from the right outer panel distal portion the right outer edge returning to the right outer edge lower terminus, the right outer panel having a continuous right primary outer surface, the right outer panel having a continuous right primary inner surface disposed in opposition to the right primary outer surface;
- the right arm containing structure including a right inner panel formed of flexible fabric material, the right inner panel being disposed in substantially parallel relation to the right outer panel, the right inner panel being joined with the right outer panel proximate the right outer edge along a substantially continuous right arm pocket seam, the right arm pocket seam terminating at a right arm pocket upper terminus, the right arm pocket upper terminus being proximate the right outer edge upper terminus, the right arm pocket seam terminating at a right arm pouch lower terminus, the right arm pocket lower terminus being proximate the right outer edge lower terminus, the right inner panel having a continuous right inner terminal edge, the right inner terminal edge extending from the right arm pocket upper terminus to the right arm pocket lower terminus, cooperation of the right inner terminal edge with the right primary inner surface defining an open right arm pocket mouth extending from the right arm pocket upper terminus to the right arm pocket lower terminus, the right arm pocket being configured to receive the right arm of the infant inserted therein with the right arm inner side disposed against the right inner panel;
- left arm containing structure configured to receive the left arm of the infant, the left arm containing structure including a left outer panel formed of flexible fabric material, the left outer panel having a left outer panel proximal portion joined to the back panel left half in substantially continuous relationship therewith, the left outer panel having a left outer panel distal portion spaced outward in a left direction from the left outer panel proximal portion, the left outer panel having a substantially continuous left outer edge, the left outer edge adjoining the back panel at a left outer edge upper terminus, the left outer edge upper terminus being proximate the rear neckline, the left outer edge adjoining the back panel at the left upper terminus, the left outer edge terminating at a left outer edge lower terminus, the left outer edge lower terminus being proximate a left hip of the infant, the left outer edge extending outwardly from the rear neckline to the left outer panel distal portion, from the left outer panel distal portion the left outer edge returning to the left outer edge lower terminus, the left outer panel having a continuous left primary outer surface, the left outer panel having a continuous left primary inner surface disposed in opposition to the left primary outer surface;
- the left arm containing structure including a left inner panel formed of flexible fabric material, the left inner panel being disposed in substantially parallel relation to the left outer panel, the left inner panel being joined with the left outer panel proximate the left outer edge along a substantially continuous left arm pocket seam, the left arm pocket seam terminating at a left arm pocket upper terminus, the left arm pocket upper terminus being proximate the left outer edge upper terminus, the left arm pocket seam terminating at a left arm pouch lower terminus, the left arm pocket lower terminus being proximate the left outer edge lower terminus, the left inner panel having a continuous left inner terminal edge, the left inner terminal edge extending from the left arm pocket upper terminus to the left arm pocket lower terminus, cooperation of the left inner terminal edge with the left primary inner surface defining an open left arm pocket mouth extending from the left arm pocket upper terminus to the left arm pocket lower terminus, the left arm pocket being configured to receive the left arm of the infant inserted therein with the left arm inner side disposed against the left inner panel;
- wherein with the right arm bent inwardly toward the torso at the shoulder joint a portion of the right inner panel being disposed intermediate the right arm and torso with the right inner terminal edge intermediate the right shoulder and right hand, so as to prevent the right hand from contacting the torso, wherein with the left arm bent inwardly toward the torso at the shoulder joint a portion of the left inner panel being disposed intermediate the left arm and torso with the left inner terminal edge intermediate the left shoulder and left hand, so as to prevent the left hand from contacting the torso.
31. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 30 and further comprising:
- a first releasable fastener combination configured to releasably secure at least one of the right arm containing structure and the left arm containing structure in a respective folded over position, in the folded over position the at least one of the right arm containing structure and the left arm containing structure being folded across the torso to a side opposite.
32. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 31 and further comprising:
- the first releasable fastener combination configured to releasably secure at least one of the right arm containing structure and the left arm containing structure in a respective primary relaxed folded over position, in the primary relaxed folded over position the at least one of the right arm pocket and the left arm pocket being sufficiently relaxed to permit movement of the respective right arm or left arm within respective of the right arm pocket and left arm pocket.
33. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 32 and further comprising:
- the first releasable fastener combination configured to indirectly releasably secure the other of the right arm containing structure and the left arm containing structure in a respective relaxed folded over position by releasably securing the at least one of the right arm containing structure and the left arm containing structure in the respective relaxed folded over position in an overlapping relationship with the other of the right arm containing structure and the left arm containing structure.
34. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 33 and further comprising:
- the first releasable fastener combination including a first mating hook and loop releasable fastener combination, the first mating hook and loop releasable fastener combination including a first landing area located across the torso opposite from the at least one of the right arm containing structure and the left arm containing structure, the first mating hook and loop releasable fastener combination including a first mating landing area located on the at least one of the right arm containing structure and the left arm containing structure in mating relationship with the first landing area when the at least one of the right arm containing structure and the left arm containing structure is folded across the torso to a relaxed folded over position.
35. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 34 and further comprising:
- a second releasable fastener combination including a second mating hook and loop releasable fastener combination, the second mating hook and loop releasable fastener combination including a second landing area located on at least one of the right arm containing structure and the left arm containing structure, the second mating hook and loop releasable fastener combination when selectively engaged with the second mating landing area defining a portion of the anchoring structure.
36. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 30 and further comprising:
- the comfort support including multi-directionally stretchable flexible fabric material disposed to engage the feet, at least a portion of the leg pouch including the multi-directionally stretchable flexible fabric material.
37. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 30 and further comprising:
- the apparatus being embodied in a garment configured to receive the infant.
38. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 37 and further comprising:
- the garment including a swaddle, the swaddle including the leg pouch, the swaddle including the comfort support.
39. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 38 and further comprising:
- the anchoring structure including a first anchoring portion configured for releasable engagement with at least one of the comfort support and the leg pouch to retain the comfort support in a fixed position relative to the anchoring structure, the anchoring structure including a second anchoring portion configured for releasable engagement with at least one of the right flap and the left flap to retain the first anchoring portion in a fixed position relative to the at least one of the right flap and the left flap.
40. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 39 and further comprising:
- the first anchoring portion including a first anchoring releasable fastener combination configured for releasable engagement with at least one of the comfort support and the leg pouch to retain the comfort support in a fixed position relative to the anchoring structure, the second anchoring portion including a second anchoring releasable fastener combination configured for releasable engagement with at least one of the right flap and the left flap to retain the first anchoring portion in a fixed position relative to the at least one of the right flap and the left flap.
41. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 40 and further comprising:
- the first anchoring releasable fastener combination including a respective mating hook and loop fastener combination configured for releasable engagement with at least one of the comfort support and the leg pouch to retain the comfort support in a fixed position relative to the anchoring structure, the second anchoring releasable fastener combination configured for releasable engagement with at least one of the right flap and the left flap to retain the first anchoring portion in a fixed position relative to the at least one of the right flap and the left flap.
42. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 41 and further comprising:
- the anchoring structure including at least one belt member proximate the lower torso, the at least one belt member having a respective element of a mating hook and loop fastener combination of the first anchoring releasable fastener combination supported thereupon, the at least one belt member having a respective element of a mating hook and loop fastener combination of the second anchoring releasable fastener combination supported thereupon in opposition to the first anchoring releasable fastener combination, the at least one of the right flap and the left flap including a respective element of a mating hook and loop fastener combination of the second anchoring releasable fastener combination supported thereupon for releasable engagement with the at least one belt member in opposed relation to the first anchoring releasable fastener combination to retain the first anchoring portion in a fixed position relative to the at least one of the right flap and the left flap.
43. Apparatus for care of an infant, the infant having a torso, the infant having a pair of legs supported by the torso at respective hips for folding movement relative to the torso, the infant having a lower torso area proximate the hips, the infant having a right arm supported by the torso at a right shoulder, the infant having a left arm supported by the torso at a left shoulder, each arm having an inner side facing the torso, each arm having an outer side disposed in opposition to the inner side thereof, said apparatus comprising:
- a leg pouch configured to receive legs of the infant, the leg pouch formed of flexible fabric material;
- a comfort support associated with the leg pouch, the comfort support configured to return legs of the infant to a fully folded position relative to the torso, the comfort support being capable of occupying an initial comfort position, the initial comfort position corresponding to a fully folded position of the legs, the comfort support being movable relative to the initial comfort position to a fully extended position, the fully extended position corresponding to an extended position of the legs;
- anchoring structure configured to substantially return the comfort support to an initial comfort position during a series of displacement cycles, during displacement cycles displacement forces being applied against the comfort support when legs of the infant are extended to an extended position from a fully folded position by muscular activity, the anchoring structure being engaged with the torso in an anchoring relationship, in the anchoring relationship the anchoring structure being retained in a substantially fixed position relative to the torso;
- a back panel disposed to lay against the back of the infant when legs of the infant are received in the leg pouch with the back of the infant resting on the back panel, the back panel being formed of flexible fabric material, the back panel having a continuous rear neckline spaced apart from the leg pouch, the rear neckline being proximate the neck of the infant, the rear neckline having a rear neckline midpoint, the back panel having a back panel longitudinal axis, the back panel being divided by the back panel longitudinal axis extending from the rear neckline midpoint to the leg pouch, the back panel having a back panel right half located on a right side of the back panel longitudinal axis, the back panel having a back panel left half located on a left side of the back panel longitudinal axis;
- a right flap, the right flap including a right outer panel formed of flexible fabric material, the right outer panel having a right outer panel proximal portion joined to the back panel right half in substantially continuous relationship therewith, the right outer panel having a right outer panel distal portion spaced outward in a right direction from the right outer panel proximal portion, the right outer panel having a substantially continuous right outer edge, the right outer edge adjoining the back panel at a right outer edge upper terminus, the right outer edge upper terminus being proximate the rear neckline, the right outer edge adjoining the back panel at the right upper terminus, the right outer edge terminating at a right outer edge lower terminus, the right outer edge lower terminus being proximate the lower torso, the right outer edge extending outwardly from the rear neckline to the right outer panel distal portion, from the right outer panel distal portion the right outer edge returning to the right outer edge lower terminus, the right outer panel having a continuous right primary outer surface, the right outer panel having a continuous right primary inner surface disposed in opposition to the right primary outer surface, the right primary inner surface being disposed against the torso;
- the right flap including an open right arm hole located in the right outer panel in a location proximate the right shoulder, the right arm hole dimensioned to receive the right arm extending therethrough to from inside to outside the right outer panel;
- a left flap, the left flap including a left outer panel formed of flexible fabric material, the left outer panel having a left outer panel proximal portion joined to the back panel left half in substantially continuous relationship therewith, the left outer panel having a left outer panel distal portion spaced outward in a left direction from the left outer panel proximal portion, the left outer panel having a substantially continuous left outer edge, the left outer edge adjoining the back panel at a left outer edge upper terminus, the left outer edge upper terminus being proximate the rear neckline, the left outer edge adjoining the back panel at the left upper terminus, the left outer edge terminating at a left outer edge lower terminus, the left outer edge lower terminus being proximate the lower torso, the left outer edge extending outwardly from the rear neckline to the left outer panel distal portion, from the left outer panel distal portion the left outer edge returning to the left outer edge lower terminus, the left outer panel having a continuous left primary outer surface, the left outer panel having a continuous left primary inner surface disposed in opposition to the left primary outer surface, the left primary inner surface being disposed against the torso; and
- the left flap including an open left arm hole located in the left outer panel in a location proximate the left shoulder, the left arm hole dimensioned to receive the left arm extending therethrough to from inside to outside the left outer panel.
44. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 43 and further comprising:
- a first releasable fastener combination configured to releasably secure at least one of the right flap and left flap in a respective folded over position, in the folded over position the at least one of the right flap and left flap arm being folded over the torso to a side opposite.
45. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 44 and further comprising:
- the first releasable fastener combination configured to indirectly releasably secure the other of the right flap and left flap arm in a respective folded over position by releasably securing the at least one of the right flap and left flap arm in the respective folded over position in an overlapping relationship with the other of the right flap and left flap.
46. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 45 and further comprising:
- the first releasable fastener combination including a first mating hook and loop releasable fastener combination, the first mating hook and loop releasable fastener combination including a first landing area located across the torso opposite from the at least one of the right flap and left flap, the first mating hook and loop releasable fastener combination including a first mating landing area located on the at least one of the right flap and left flap in mating relationship with the first landing area when the at least one of the right flap and left flap occupies the respective folded over position.
47. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 46 and further comprising:
- a second releasable fastener combination including a second mating hook and loop releasable fastener combination, the second mating hook and loop releasable fastener combination including a second landing area located on at least one of the right flap and left flap, the second mating hook and loop releasable fastener combination when selectively engaged with the second mating landing area defining a portion of the anchoring structure.
48. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 47 and further comprising:
- the comfort support including multi-directionally stretchable flexible fabric material disposed to engage the feet, at least a portion of the leg pouch including the multi-directionally stretchable flexible fabric material.
49. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 43 and further comprising:
- the apparatus being embodied in a garment configured to receive the infant.
50. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 49 and further comprising:
- the garment including a swaddle, the swaddle including the leg pouch, the swaddle including the comfort support.
51. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 50 and further comprising:
- the anchoring structure including a first anchoring portion configured for releasable engagement with at least one of the comfort support and the leg pouch to retain the comfort support in a fixed position relative to the anchoring structure, the anchoring structure including a second anchoring portion configured for releasable engagement with at least one of the right flap and the left flap to retain the first anchoring portion in a fixed position relative to the at least one of the right flap and the left flap.
51. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 52 and further comprising:
- the first anchoring portion including a first anchoring releasable fastener combination configured for releasable engagement with at least one of the comfort support and the leg pouch to retain the comfort support in a fixed position relative to the anchoring structure, the second anchoring portion including a second anchoring releasable fastener combination configured for releasable engagement with at least one of the right flap and the left flap to retain the first anchoring portion in a fixed position relative to the at least one of the right flap and the left flap.
52. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 51 and further comprising:
- the first anchoring releasable fastener combination including a respective mating hook and loop fastener combination configured for releasable engagement with at least one of the comfort support and the leg pouch to retain the comfort support in a fixed position relative to the anchoring structure, the second anchoring releasable fastener combination configured for releasable engagement with at least one of the right flap and the left flap to retain the first anchoring portion in a fixed position relative to the at least one of the right flap and the left flap.
53. Apparatus for care of an infant according to claim 52 and further comprising:
- the anchoring structure including at least one belt member proximate the lower torso, the at least one belt member having a respective element of a mating hook and loop fastener combination of the first anchoring releasable fastener combination supported thereupon, the at least one belt member having a respective element of a mating hook and loop fastener combination of the second anchoring releasable fastener combination supported thereupon in opposition to the first anchoring releasable fastener combination, the at least one of the right flap and the left flap including a respective element of a mating hook and loop fastener combination of the second anchoring releasable fastener combination supported thereupon for releasable engagement with the at least one belt member in opposed relation to the first anchoring releasable fastener combination to retain the first anchoring portion in a fixed position relative to the at least one of the right flap and the left flap.
Type: Application
Filed: May 9, 2011
Publication Date: Nov 17, 2011
Inventor: CLIFFORD ALLEN HARDESTY (Cedar Park, TX)
Application Number: 13/103,508
International Classification: A41B 13/06 (20060101); A41B 13/00 (20060101); A47D 13/08 (20060101);