INFANT-SUPPORTING DEVICES
An infant-supporting device is disclosed. The infant-supporting device can include a base assembly having a pair of arms and a support base, a seat assembly, and a mobile assembly. The base assembly can be collapsible. The seat assembly can be releasably coupled to the base assembly, and the mobile assembly can be releasably coupled to the seat assembly. A spring member can be positioned in the base assembly. When the infant-supporting device is assembled, the seat assembly can bounce relative to the support base. The infant-supporting device can also include a vibration-generating system.
This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/043,816, entitled BOUNCER SEAT, filed Aug. 29, 2014, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
BACKGROUNDThe present invention relates to infant-supporting devices and, in various embodiments, to bouncer seats, collapsible seats, and/or collapsible bouncer seats for infants and children.
Infant-supporting devices may comprise a variety of shapes, sizes and features. For example, infant-supporting devices may provide a safe and comfortable place for infants and young children to sit, lounge, recline, or lie. Infant-supporting devices may include features for securing, entertaining and soothing an infant or young child. Certain infant-supporting devices may be configured to move the infant or young child. For example, an infant-supporting device may bounce, rock, sway, oscillate and/or vibrate. An infant-supporting device can include a motor, such as an electric motor, for example, for driving at least one motion and/or can be manually-driven.
The foregoing discussion is intended only to illustrate various aspects of the related art in the field of the invention at the time, and should not be taken as a disavowal of claim scope.
Various features of the embodiments described herein, together with the advantages thereof, may be understood in accordance with the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
The exemplifications set out herein illustrate various embodiments of the invention, in one form, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.
DETAILED DESCRIPTIONNumerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the embodiments as described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Well-known operations, components, and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described in the specification. The reader will understand that the embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and thus it can be appreciated that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and illustrative. Variations and changes thereto may be made without departing from the scope of the claims.
The terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and “comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has” and “having”), “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes” and “including”) and “contain” (and any form of contain, such as “contains” and “containing”) are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, a system, device, or apparatus that “comprises,” “has,” “includes” or “contains” one or more elements possesses those one or more elements, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more elements. Likewise, an element of a system, device, or apparatus that “comprises,” “has,” “includes” or “contains” one or more features possesses those one or more features, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more features.
For convenience and clarity, spatial terms such as “vertical”, “horizontal”, “up”, and “down”, for example, may be used herein with respect to the drawings. However, various devices disclosed herein can be used in different orientations and positions, and these spatial terms are not intended to be limiting and/or absolute.
“Bouncer” seats for soothing and comforting an infant are known in the art. Such seats generally comprise a wire frame having a base frame including a main portion which is adapted for receiving and supporting the seat on a supporting surface, and a pair of angular members which extend angularly upwardly and rearwardly from the front end of the main portion. Bouncer seats of this type generally further comprise leg and back frame portions which are supported on the angular frame members thereof, and a fabric covering which extends over the leg and back frame members for supporting an infant thereon. The angular members of the base frames of seats of this type are normally resiliently deflectable downwardly slightly toward the main portions of the base frames thereof. Accordingly, when an infant is supported on the fabric covering on the leg and back frame members of a seat of this type the infant can be gently rocked in the seat by moving the back and leg frame members up and down slightly so that the angular members are slightly resiliently bent downwardly, and then resiliently moved upwardly to gently rock the infant in the seat. Such an infant seat is described in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,553,786 to Lockett, Ill et al., entitled INFANT SEATING AND LOUNGE UNIT, which issued on Nov. 19, 1985, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
While the previously available bouncer seats have generally been found to be effective and desirable from the standpoint of providing effective seats which are operative for gently rocking infants, they have generally not been readily collapsible without disassembling the components thereof, and hence, it has not been practical to transport or store many of these previously available devices. In addition, such previously available bouncer seats are generally manufactured having an unappealing aesthetic appearance.
An object of the invention may be to provide a bouncer seat that is easily collapsible for storage and shipment. In accordance with at least one embodiment, there is provided a bouncer seat that includes: a base; a pair of arms connected on opposite sides of the base; a seat ring removably coupled to an end of each of the arms and configured to hold a child therein; and a pair of biasing elements configured to provide motion to the seat ring. Each of the arms is connected to the base by an interface that allows the arms to move from a first position in which the arms extend from the base and a second position in which the arms are folded onto the base. A first biasing element of the pair of biasing elements extends through the base, through the interface, and into a first arm of the pair of arms and a second biasing element extends through the base, through the interface, and into a second arm of the pair of arms.
With reference to
The seat ring 9 is designed to receive a fabric or other type of comfortable seat (not shown in
The base 3 includes a bottom portion 13 configured to contact a surface, such as the floor of a room, to support the bouncer seat 1 and a top cover 15 configured to mate with the bottom portion 13 to form a housing.
With reference to
More specifically, each of the wire forms 17 includes a first portion 19 that is positioned within the housing formed by the base 3. A first end 21 of the first portion 19 of the wire form 17 is fixedly connected to the base 3. Each wire form 17 further includes a second portion 23 extending from the first portion 19 at about a 90° angle. The second portion 23 passes out of the housing formed by the base 3 and into a ball joint interface 25 provided between the base 3 and one of the pivoting arms 5, 7. Accordingly, the wire form 17 is configured to flex within the housing formed by the base 3 since it is supported at points at the front and the rear of the base 3. Each wire form 17 also includes a third portion 27 extending from the second portion 23 at about a 45° angle. The third portion 27 extends into the respective pivoting arm 5, 7. A second end 29 of the third portion 27 is fixedly connected within the respective pivoting arm 5, 7, thereby allowing the wire form 17 to flex within the respective pivoting arm 5, 7. Each of the pivoting arms 5, 7 includes a first half and a second half that are assembled using a fastener, such as a double-barbed fastener, with the third portion 27 of the wire form 17 positioned there between. In the example of a double-barbed fastener, barbs on one side of the fastener affix to the first half of the pivoting arm 5, 7, and barbs on the other side affix to the second half of the pivoting arm 5, 7. This results in a pivoting arm 5, 7 with no visible fasteners. Other forms of mechanical fasteners such as screws, bolts, rivets, adhesives, etc. may also be employed.
While conventional wire forms 17 have been discussed hereinabove, composite springs manufactured from fiberglass and/or carbon fiber, for instance, may also be utilized in place of the wire forms 17. In addition, the wire forms 17 may have a round cross-sectional shape or any other suitable cross-sectional shape. Alternative geometries for the wire forms 17 and alternative spring arrangements for a bouncer seat are further described herein.
With reference to
The motion of each of the arms 5, 7 is guided upward when the arms 5, 7 are moved from the collapsed position shown in
With reference to
Alternatively to the latching system engaging a notch on the ball joint interface as described hereinabove, the system could also function without latches. To aid in assembly without latching present, the arms may be biased upward to position the arms properly. This can be achieved using a torsion spring, or with a cam and cam follower system. In addition, the same cam and cam follower system could provide a downward force on the arms when they are moved by the user beyond a certain angle of rotation. This would ensure the arms are always either in an upright or a down and folded or collapsed position.
While the collapsible, pivoting arms 5, 7 have been described hereinabove as being used for a bouncer seat, this is not to be construed as limiting the present disclosure as such pivoting arms may be utilized in other juvenile devices such as, but not limited to, a swing.
With reference to
Additional views of the bouncer seat 1 of the present disclosure are provided in
With reference to
More specifically and with reference to
The vibration module 11 may further include power management and power saving features. For instance, the vibration module 11 may automatically turn off after a certain amount of time on so parents do not leave it on for too long unintentionally. In addition, the controller of the vibration module 11 may be configured to send a pulse width modulated (PWM) digital signal to the motor and the motor is designed to optimize power savings to lengthen battery life. In addition, the controller may be programmed to compensate for low battery voltage while maintaining consistent vibration intensity. For example, the controller can be configured to adjust a pulse width modulation signal to maintain a consistent vibrational intensity, as further described herein. When battery voltage is critically low, a low battery indication may be provided on the user interface 47 and vibration intensity is then permitted to reduce. Finally, the controller may provide an automatic shutoff at the end of the effective battery life.
The vibration module 11 may further include a 3-axis accelerometer (not shown) mounted within the housing 45 thereof. The accelerometer is operatively connected to the controller to allow the controller to determine whether a child is present within the seat based on the seat angle. The accelerometer is configured to measure the gravity vector and determine inclination and motion. If the controller determines that no child is present, the vibration is turned off to conserve battery life. In addition, the controller may determine the weight of the child based on the seat angle and measure and monitor the degree of “bouncing”. The accelerometer also allows the controller to provide feedback to the parent and/or child based on the determined bounce motion. This feedback may be in the form of vibration, lights, and/or audio. For example, an LED may be modulated to provide a pleasing pulsing effect that corresponds to the oscillatory motion of the seat. In another, non-limiting example, an acoustic signal can correspond to the motion through modulating of pitch, volume or other sound manipulation. The controller provides more feedback when the controller determines that there is more “bounce” present based on the signal from the accelerometer to encourage bouncing and play.
The signal from the accelerometer may also allow the controller to learn the behavior of a child that is placed in the seat. For instance, based on the signal from the accelerometer, the controller can determine whether a child falls asleep by monitoring changes to “bounce” over time. If the controller determines that a child has fallen asleep, the controller may automatically turn on vibration. Furthermore, the controller may also automatically turn on vibration when a child is placed in the seat and when a child is slowing down (i.e., getting tired) based on a signal from the accelerometer.
The vibration module may also include a wireless communication transceiver positioned within the housing 45 thereof. The wireless communication transceiver may be provided in operative communication with the controller. The wireless communication transceiver may be a Bluetooth transceiver, a Wi-Fi transceiver, or any other suitable wireless communication transceiver and may utilize the systems and methods described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/954,332, entitled WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR JUVENILE PRODUCTS, filed Mar. 17, 2014, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
The wireless communication module may allow a parent to remotely monitor a child's motion from another device, such as a smartphone, tablet computer, personal computer, or any other suitable device. It may also allow for remote control of vibration from the other device and remote control of audio from another device. The audio may be built into the vibration module 11 or it could be streamed from the other device. Finally, the wireless communication module may allow user data to be collected and transmitted to the manufacturer of the bouncer seat for evaluation and future improvements.
Referring now to
Referring now to
The infant-supporting sling 144 can be comprised, for example, of fabric, foam, netting, and/or flexible plastic. For example, the infant-supporting sling 144 can be comprised of plastic-coated fabric. The infant-supporting sling 144 can be comprised of a conformable material, which can conform to a child positioned in the seat assembly 140. In certain instances, a substantially rigid or semi-rigid panel 145 can be integrated and/or embedded into the infant-supporting sling 144. Such a panel 145 can be positioned against and/or adjacent to a vibration-generating assembly 146, and can transmit vibrations from the assembly 146, through the sling 144, and to a child positioned in the sling 144. The panel 145 can be comprised of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene, and/or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), for example. In various instances, the sling 144 can include heating and/or cooling features. For example, the fabric can include a blanket, foot warmer, muff, electric blanket, warming pads and/or cooling gel inserts for adjusting the temperature of the child. In certain instances, the device 100 can also include a fan for cooling a child positioned in the sling 144.
In the illustrated embodiment, the support base 120 is formed from an upper portion 119 and a lower portion 121, which are assembled together with a plurality of threaded fasteners. However, other forms of fasteners and fastener arrangements may also be employed, such as snaps, for example. The support base 120 is substantially hollow. A cavity 123 (
In the illustrated embodiment, the support base 120 includes four feet 117, which can be placed on a support surface, such as the floor, for example, to hold the support base 120 level or substantially level. In certain instances, the feet 117 can be adjustable to accommodate for variations in the height of the support surface. The reader will appreciate that fewer than four feet or more than four feet can extend from the lower portion 121 of the support base 120. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the feet 117 can be comprised of a material having a greater coefficient of friction than the support base 120. In such instances, friction between the support surface and the device 100 can be increased, which can improve a gripping function of the feet 117, and thus reduce slippage or movement of the device 100 relative to the support surface.
When the arms 104 of the base assembly 102 are in the extended orientation and mounted to the seat assembly 140, the frame 142 is supported by the arms 104 and held above the support base 120. The frame 142 is oriented at an angle relative to the support base 120. The angled orientation of the frame 142 can be selected to provide a comfortable lounging position for a child positioned in the sling 144 (
As further described herein, when the arms 104 are in the extended orientation and mounted to the seat assembly 140, inward rotation of the arms 104 relative to the support base 120 can be restrained by the seat ring 142 mounted thereto. Additional locking mechanisms may also be employed to bias and/or hold the arms 104 in the extended orientation relative to the support base 120. Each arm 104 includes an elongate casing or shroud 105 that extends from a joint body 130. The casing 105 and/or joint body 130 can be comprised of a substantially rigid material. For example, the casing 105 and/or the joint body 130 can be comprised of a thermoplastic polymer such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polypropylene and/or polyoxymethylene (POM). In certain instances, the casing 105 can be comprised of a flexible material such as an elastomer, foam, and/or vinyl. Such a casing 105 can be slid over the spring member 160 without requiring any fasteners, for example.
Though the support structures for the seat assembly 140 (e.g. the support base 120, the casing 105 for the arms 104 and the joint body 130 for the arms 104) are substantially rigid and held in a substantially fixed, extended orientation during use of the infant-supporting device 100, a degree of movement or flexibility between the arms 104 and the support base 120 may be permitted. In particular, the arms 104 are configured to pivot or deflect downward relative to the support base 120 by virtue of a pair of spring members 160 disposed within the base assembly 102 (e.g. within the support base 120, the casings 105 and the joint bodies 130).
Referring primarily to
The free end portion 164 of the spring member 160 is configured to deflect relative to the fixed end portion 162 of the spring member 160 when a force is applied thereto, and the spring member 160 is configured to generate a restoring or spring back force in response to the amount of deflection. As a result, the free end portion 164 of the spring member 160 can begin to bounce or oscillate relative to the fixed end portion 162. Moreover, because the free end portion 164 of the spring member 160 is fixed relative to a mounting portion of the arm 104, which is fixed relative to the frame 142 by a sleeve 150, movement of the free end portion 164 affects movement of the frame 142 of seat assembly 140 relative to the support base 120.
In the depicted embodiment, the spring member 160 is comprised of a formed wire. The wire comprises a substantially circular cross-sectional geometry. The spring member 160 can be comprised of a metal such as steel. In at least one embodiment, the spring member 160 is comprised of heat-treated high-carbon steel, which provides a high yield strength such that inadvertent plastic deformation of the spring member 160 during use of the device 100 is substantially limited and/or prevented.
The spring member 160 defines a spring constant that affects the range of movement of the arm 104 relative to the support base 120. For example, for a given amount of deflection, if the spring constant is large, a larger force will be required to deflect the arm 104 toward the support base 120 and, if the spring constant is small, a smaller force can deflect the arm 104 toward the support base 120. The spring constant of the spring member 160 can depend on the material, diameter, length, and the geometry of the spring member 160. Moreover, the mounts and support structures for the spring member 160 within the base assembly 102, as further described herein, can also affect the bouncing or oscillatory motions generated by the spring member 160. In the depicted example, the diameter of the spring member 160 is 7mm. In other instances, the diameter of the spring member 160 can be less than 7mm or greater than 7mm. The stiffness of the spring member 160 is a function of the diameter of the spring member 160. For example, when the diameter of the spring member 160 is increased, the spring member 160 is stiffer (defines a greater spring constant) and less likely to permanently or plastically deform under a given load. When the diameter of the spring member 160 is increased, the spring member 160 is more flexible (defines a reduced spring constant) and more likely to permanently or plastically deform under the same load. The stiffness of the spring member 160 is also a function of the geometry and length of the spring member 160. For example, when the length of the spring member 160 is increased, the spring member 160 can deflect within a greater range of positions without plastically deforming, i.e., define an increased spring amplitude, and when the length of the spring member 160 is decreased, the amplitude of deflections provided by the spring without plastically deforming can be decreased. The period of oscillations and the deflection under a given load can also increase as the length of the spring member 160 increases. In various instances, the increased deflection, period, and deflection associated with a longer spring member 160 can provide a more desirable bouncing motion for the device 100. Accordingly, in at least one instance, the length of the spring member 160 can be maximized within the footprint of the support base 120 to optimize the bouncing motion.
The device 100 can be disassembled and portions of the device 100 can be collapsed. Referring primarily to
“Toolless assembly” and “toolless disassembly” of the device 100 can also improve the mobility of the device 100. As used herein, the terms “toolless assembly” and “toolless disassembly” mean that the device 100 may be assembled and disassembled, respectively, without requiring the user to manipulate or operate additional tools, utensils, wrenches, screwdrivers, keys, etc. In particular, the major components or subassemblies of the device 100 can be reassembled to assemble the device 100 in a new location or after a period of time without requiring the user to locate specific tools. For example, the base assembly 102 and the seat assembly 140 can be toollessly assembled together and toollessly disassembled. Similarly, the mobile assembly 180 and the seat assembly 140 can be toollessly assembled together and toollessly disassembled. Toolless assembly and toolless disassembly can provide a desirable convenience factor. As used herein, assemblies, subassemblies, and components that are releasably coupled can be coupled together and subsequently released without requiring any tools. In other words, releasably coupled assemblies, subassemblies, or components can be toollessly coupled and toollessly decoupled.
In the illustrated embodiment, the mobile assembly 180 is configured to be releasably coupled to the seat assembly 140. For example, the mobile assembly 180 can be attached to the seat assembly 140 and removed from the seat assembly 140 without any tools. A toolless engagement portion 181 (
In other instances, the mobile assembly 180 can be integrally formed with the seat assembly 140 or secured to the seat assembly 140 with adhesives and/or mechanical fasteners, such as threaded screws, for example. The mobile assembly 180 can provide a visually-appealing focus to an infant positioned in the infant-supporting sling 144 (
Referring primarily still to
Referring primarily to
The sleeve 150 includes the spring-biased button 138 and a spring 158 (
In certain instances, the actuation of the spring-biased button 138 can directly disengage the arm 104 and the sleeve 150. In other instances, the actuation of the spring-biased button 138 can actuate another spring-biased button. For example, actuation of the spring-biased button 138 can actuate a spring-biased button 108 (
Referring again to
The button 138 can interact with the button 108 to disengage the arm 104 from the sleeve 150. For example, when the button 138 on the sleeve 150 is actuated, the button 138 can actuate the button 108 within the receptacle 152 of the sleeve 150. Consequently, the button 108 on the arm 104 can be moved out of locking engagement with the sleeve 150 such that the arm 104 and button 108 thereon can be removed from the sleeve 150. To releasably couple the arm 104 to the sleeve 150, the arm 104 and the button 108 thereon can be moved into engagement with the sleeve 150. As the arm 104 moves into the receptacle 152 of the sleeve 150, the button 108 can be actuated by the sleeve 150 and can at least partially rebound toward the unactuated position to engage the sleeve 150. Until the button 138 on the sleeve 150 re-actuates the button 108 on the arm 104, the arm 104 can remain coupled to the sleeve 150.
In various instances, owing to the geometry of the arms 104 and the seat assembly 140, removing the arms 104 from the receptacles 152 may require simultaneous disengagement and release of both arms 104. Moreover, engagement of the arms 104 with the sleeves 150 may require simultaneous engagement of both sleeves 150. Engagement of the arms 104 with the sleeves 150 may also require the arms 104 to be in the extended orientation relative to the base assembly 102, as further described herein. Such arrangements can help to ensure that the seat assembly 140 is attached to both arms 104 when both arms 104 are in the extended configuration relative to the support base 120. This may improve the stability of the device 100 and ensure that the device 100 is properly and safely assembled. Additional or alternative attachment features are further described herein.
Referring primarily to
The geometry of the spring members 160 can be selected to optimize the spring constant when the arms 104 are extended while facilitating rotation of the arms 104 to the collapsed orientation relative to the support base 120. For example, the free end portion 164 (
Referring primarily to
The first end portion 162 is held relative to the support base 120 by a fastener 176 (
The second end portion 164 of the spring member 160 is held relative to the end 114 of the arm 104. For example, the end 114 of the arm 104 can be clamped around the second end portion 164. Protrusions, lobes, beads, and/or detents 165 on the second end portion 164 are configured to prevent relative movement of the end 114 of the arm 104 and the second end portion 164 of the spring member 160. In certain instances, portions of the end 114 of the arm 104, such as a housing 116, can be formed or molded around the second end portion 164 and/or the second end portion 164 can be press-fit or friction-fit within the housing 116. Referring primarily to
The spring member 160 includes a first length 172 adjacent to the first end portion 162, and a second length 174 adjacent to the second end portion 164. The first length 172 extends between the first end portion 162 and the joint 112, and the second length 174 extends from the joint 112 to the second end portion 164. The first length 172 is enclosed within the support base 120 and can bow or otherwise deform within the cavity defined by the support base 120. The second length 174 is enclosed within the casing 105 of the arm 104 (
The spring member 160 further includes a cradled portion 166 supported within the joint body 130. The cradled portion 166 can be supported between lower ridges 122 (
As can be seen in
In various instances, the mounting and support structures for the spring member 160 in the base assembly 120, further described above, can be selected to optimize the bouncing or oscillatory motions generated by the spring member 160. For example, dampening of the spring member's 160 oscillations can be caused by friction or by deflection of other less-elastic parts of the device 100 during a bouncing motion. The mounting and support structures for the spring member 160 are selected to minimize the dampening effect caused by friction and deflection of other less-elastic parts of the device 100. For example, friction generated from the rotational displacement of the ball joint 130 within the base support 120, from the rotational and/or translational displacement of the second spring end 162 in the fastener 176, and/or from the deflections of the spring member 160 within the support base 120 and the casings 105 of the arms 104 is minimized in the depicted embodiment by providing sufficient clearance. Additionally or alternatively, various close-fitting joints and/or regions of potential interference in the base assembly 102 could be lubricated.
To reduce the dampening effect associated with the deflection of parts that are less elastic than the spring member 160, the device 100 is designed to efficiently transfer the weight of the seat assembly 140, including the weight of a child positioned in the sling 144 (
The reader will appreciate that various alternative geometries can be selected for the spring members 160. For example, at least one of the spring members 160 can be replaced with a leaf spring, a torsion spring, or an alternative spring that provides for flexibility of the base assembly 102. In various instances, each arm 104 can include a plurality of spring members. In still other instances, the arms 104 may not include the spring member 160 or an equivalent, alternative spring member. In such instances, the infant-supporting device 100 can comprise a non-bouncing or non-oscillating seat assembly 140. For example, the seat assembly 140 can be held stationary by the base assembly 102.
In certain instances, a spring member can be comprised of two or more segments. The multiple segments of such a spring member can be assembled together to form the spring member and can be disassembled to facilitate packing, storage, and/or transportation of the infant-supporting device 100. The segments of the spring member can be connected at a joint or coupling. For example, the spring member segments can be connected with a coupling tube. In various instances, the base assembly 102 can include corresponding junction, which can be detached when the segments of the spring member are disassembled and can be attached when the segments of the spring member are assembled. At least one joint in a segmented spring member can be between the portion of the spring member positioned in the support base 120 and the free end portion of the spring member. In at least one instance, the arm 104 can include a corresponding junction such that the arm 104 and the spring member therein can be decoupled and recoupled, for example. In the foregoing embodiment, the base assembly can be collapsed by decoupling the segments of the spring member and the portions of the arm without rotating the arms 104. Various types of spring members in the base assembly may be segmented, such as the spring member 160, a leaf spring, and/or a torsion spring, for example.
Referring primarily to
The joint body 130 is structured to avoid pinch points between the rotating body 130 and the support base 120. For example, the seam between the body 130 and the support base 120 can define a smooth and substantially seamless transition. Additionally or alternatively, the joint between the arm 104 and the support base 120 can include a flexible joint, such as a flexible accordion shield around the joint, which is configured to prevent pinch points. In still other instances, the joint between the arm 104 and the support base 120 can include a plurality of substantially rigid collapsible segments or overlapping baffles, which can provide a shield around the joint to prevent pinch points.
Referring primarily to
When the arms 104 are moved to the collapsed orientation (e.g.
Referring to
Referring primarily to
The detent assembly 125 includes a plunger or detent 127 and a spring 128. The detent 127 and the spring 128 are held within an aperture 129 (
A disengaged configuration of the detent 127 and the recess 133 is shown in
Referring primarily to
In various instances, the detent assembly 125 can be configured to bias the arm 104 toward the extended orientation when the arm 104 is in a range of positions approaching and/or adjacent to the orientation position. For example, the detent assembly 125 can bias the arm 104 toward the extended orientation when the arm 104 is within approximately five to fifteen degrees of the extended orientation. In certain instances, the detent assembly 125 can bias the arm 104 toward the extended orientation when the arm 104 is within approximately ten degrees of the extended orientation. In other instances, the detent assembly 125 can bias the arm 104 toward the extended orientation when the arm 104 is farther than approximately ten degrees and/or less than approximately five degrees from the extended orientation. For example, the detent assembly 125 can bias the arm 104 toward the extended orientation when the arm 104 is within approximately thirty degrees of the extended orientation.
Additionally or alternatively, at least one additional locking mechanism, such as a detent and/or ratchet, for example, can be employed to bias and/or releasably hold the joint body 130 in a predefined position relative to the support base 120. The reader will further appreciate that alternative embodiments of the infant-supporting device 100 may not include a locking mechanism. In still other instances, it can be desirable to purchase or initially obtain the device 100 in the collapsed orientation and then permanently assemble the device 100 in the extended orientation. For example, the collapsed orientation can be utilized when shipping the device 100 and/or otherwise moving the device to a consumer's home. Thereafter, the consumer may want to permanently assemble the device. In such instances, the device 100 can include a permanent or semi-permanent locking mechanism that permanently holds the base 102 in the extended orientation.
Movement of the joint body 130 can also be restrained by the wedges 135 (
Referring primarily to
Abutting engagement of the guide walls 118 and the stop surfaces 136 of the wedges 135 is shown in
After the detent assembly 125 has been overcome, as described herein, the hub 134 can rotate counterclockwise to move the arms 104 toward the collapsed orientation (
Over-rotation and/or under-rotation of the arms 104 relative to the support base 120 can also be limited by the geometry of the arms 104, the joint body 130 and/or the support base 120. For example, in addition to the detent assembly 125, which seeks to hold or bias the arms 104 in the extended orientation relative to the support base 120 (
In other embodiments, portions of the joint body 130, such as portions of the wedge 135 can be configured to restrain the clockwise rotation of the hub 134. For example, surfaces 137 (
In certain instances, the joint body 130 can include additional rotational restraints. For example, the hub 134 can include an additional stop surface or hard stop. Such a hard stop can prevent rotational displacement beyond the collapsed orientation. In certain instances, a soft stop can restrain the counterclockwise rotation of the hub 134 as the arm 104 moves toward the extended orientation. Such a soft stop can act as a brake when unfolding the base assembly 102, for example. Additionally or alternatively, the joint body 130 can engage additional and/or different biasing elements that are configured to bias the joint body 130 toward at least one predefined orientation. For example, at least one torsion spring supported in the support base 120 can bias the joint body 130 toward the orientation corresponding to the extended orientation of the arm 104 or toward the orientation corresponding to the collapsed orientation of the arm 104.
As described herein, the device 100 includes the spring members 160, which provide flexibility to the base assembly 102. The spring members 160 permit the base assembly to generate a bouncing or oscillating motion when the arms 104 are held in a fixed rotational position relative to the support base 120. In particular, when the seat assembly 140 is mounted to the arms 104, the springs 160 can be deflected or otherwise deformed such that the ends 114 of the arms 104 pivot toward the support base 120. The spring members 160 are configured to spring back generating an oscillatory movement of the seat assembly 140. The oscillations can taper in amplitude as the spring member 160 reaches equilibrium. The oscillations of the seat assembly 140 may also be prematurely terminated by an external force. In other instances, the device 100 may not be configured for oscillatory or bouncing motion. For example, the seat assembly 140 can be held fixed, or substantially fixed, by the collapsible base assembly 102. In such instances, the arms 140 may not include the spring members 160.
In certain instances, it is desirable to transfer vibrations to the seat assembly 140. Vibration of the seat assembly 140 can be implemented concurrently with the oscillatory or bouncing motion described herein. Vibrations may also be employed when the seat assembly 140 is held stationary relative to the base assembly 102. For example, in embodiments excluding the spring members 160 in the base assembly 102, the seat assembly 140 can be configured to vibrate.
A vibration-generating assembly 146 is depicted in
The foregoing features promote convenient maintenance of the device 100 when installing or removing batteries in the battery cavity 183. The reader will appreciate that batteries positioned in the battery cavity 183 and/or batteries positioned elsewhere in the device 100, such as in the base assembly 102, for example, can provide power to the device 100. In the embodiment depicted in
The vibration-generating assembly 146 also includes a control panel or user interface 186. The control panel 186 includes a power button 188 and adjustment buttons 189 and 190. The adjustment button 189 is configured to adjust the vibrational mode, and the adjustment button 190 is configured to adjust the vibrational intensity. The vibrational modes can include a steady or constant vibrational mode and at least one rhythmic vibrational mode. For example, the vibrational modes can include a wave mode and a heartbeat mode. The vibrational intensities can include a plurality of intensities, such as high, medium, and low, for example. Each of the vibrational intensities can be used with each of the vibrational modes. For example, in instances where the system is configured to operate in three vibrational modes (e.g. steady, wave, and heartbeat) and three vibrational intensities (e.g. high, medium, and low), nine different combinations are possible.
At least one button 188, 189, 190 on the control panel 186 can comprise a mechanical actuator. For example, at least one button 188, 189, 190 can comprise a mechanical button. In certain embodiments, at least one button 188, 189, 190 on the control panel 186 can comprise an electrical input button, such as a touch pad, for example. In various instances, at least one button 188, 189, 190 on the control panel 186 can be replaced with a knob, dial, or switch, for example. Additionally or alternatively, the operation of the power button 188 can be incorporated into the operation of at least one of the adjustment buttons 189, 190. In certain instances, the control panel 186 can include additional adjustment buttons 189, 190 and/or at least one of the adjustment buttons 189, 190 can be removed or disabled.
The vibrational mode and the vibrational intensity can be communicated to a user via the control panel 186. For example, the control panel 186 includes a plurality of displays or indicators 191a, 191b, 191c, 191d, 191e, 191f. Referring to
Referring primarily now to
Actuation of the motor 196 and the corresponding rotation of the asymmetrical mass 198 is configured to generate vibrations, which are then transmitted to the seat ring 142 via the enclosure 182 (see
Referring again to
An electrical diagram of a control system 200 for the vibration-generating assembly 146 is shown in
Various control sequences for implementation by a controller, such as the controller 293 (
Referring primarily to
Referring now to
At step 220, pulse width modulation or pulse frequency modulation is utilized to control the indicator light(s) 192 (
Thereafter, at step 222, the controller 293 determines the voltage of a battery or batteries, such as batteries 283 (
The main loop may also include step 228, in which the controller 293 determines if the system 200 as been operating for longer than a threshold period of time, such as longer than 20 minutes, for example. If so, the controller 293 is configured to power down the system 200 at step 228a, as further described herein (see
Actuation of an adjustment button, such as the vibrational mode adjustment button 189 (
Referring primarily now to
Referring now to
As further described herein, the controller 293 can be reset. In certain instances, a system test or an endurance test may also be executed. Referring now to
The controller 293 is configured to implement at least one test mode for the device 100 and control system 200 thereof. Referring now to
An exemplary system test is depicted in
For example, at step 288, the vibrational intensity mode button 190 can be actuated, which can cause the controller 293 to adjust the indicator lights and the motor intensity. In certain instances, the indicators 191a, 191b, 191c, 191d, 191e, and 191f are configured to display a second pattern and the controller 293 switches the motor 196 to a lower intensity at step 288. Step 288 continues until the controller 293 receives another input via the control panel 186. For example, at step 292, the power button 188 can be actuated, which can cause the controller 293 to adjust the indicator light feature and the motor intensity. In certain instances, the indicators 191a, 191b, 191c, 191d, 191e, and 191f can display a third pattern and the motor 196 can be switched to a higher intensity at step 294. Step 294 can continue until the controller 293 receives another input via the control panel 186. For example, at step 296, the vibrational mode adjustment button 189 can be actuated, which can cause the controller 293 to turn off the motor 196 at step 298 and then display a fourth pattern with the indicators 191a, 191b, 191c, 191d, 191e, and 191f indicating that the system test is complete.
In various instances, the device 100 (
The accelerometer can detect the bouncing or oscillating motion of the device 100. The data collected by the accelerometer can be processed by the controller 293. In certain instances, the data can be recorded and stored to identify patterns of use. Signals from the accelerometer can allow the controller 293 to learn the behavior of a child that is placed in the device 100. For example, based on the signal from the accelerometer, the controller 293 can determine whether the child has fallen asleep, woken up, become agitated, and/or calmed down, for example, by monitoring changes to the motion over time. If the controller 293 determines that the child has fallen asleep, the controller 293 can automatically turn off or reduce a vibrational effect, for example, and if the controller 293 determines that a child has woken up, the controller 293 can automatically turn on or increase a vibrational effect, for example.
Additionally, the controller 293 can be configured to provide feedback to the parent and/or child based on the motions detected by the accelerometer. This feedback may be audible, visual, or tactile, and can include vibrations, lights, and/or audio. For example, an LED may be modulated to provide a pulsing effect that corresponds to the detected oscillatory motion of the device 100. Additionally or alternatively, an acoustic signal can be manipulated to correspond to the detected oscillatory motion. For example, the pitch and/or volume could be modulated or otherwise manipulated. In certain instances, the controller 293 can intensify at least one form of feedback when the accelerometer detects additional bounce or movement and/or can reduce at least one of feedback when the accelerometer detects reduced bounce or movement. Such features can encourage bouncing and play under certain circumstances, calm or sooth an infant under other circumstances, and conserve the battery life, for example.
The device 100 can also include a wireless communication transceiver, such as a BLUETOOTH® transceiver, a Wi-Fi transceiver, or any other suitable wireless communication transceiver, for example. Such a transceiver can be positioned within the enclosure 182, for example. In other instances, the transceiver can be mounted to the base assembly 102. Such a transceiver can be in operative communication with the controller 293 or another controller of the device 100. The following commonly-owned United States patent documents are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their respective entireties:
-
- U.S. Patent Application No. 61/954,332, entitled WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR JUVENILE PRODUCTS, filed Mar. 17, 2014;
- U.S. Patent Application No. 62/045,859, entitled WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR JUVENILE PRODUCTS, filed Sep. 4, 2014;
- U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/660,503, entitled WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR JUVENILE PRODUCTS, filed Mar. 17, 2015; and
- U.S. Patent Application No. 62/148,563, entitled METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS AND CONTROL OF JUVENILE PRODUCTS, filed Apr. 16, 2015.
The reader will appreciate that a wireless communication transceiver can allow a parent to remotely monitor or control a child's motion in the device 100 from another device, such as a smartphone, tablet computer, personal computer, or any other suitable device. It can also allow for remote control of the vibrational effects from the other device and remote control of various forms of feedback from another device. Audio output may be built into the device 100 (e.g. in the enclosure 182) or could be streamed from a remote device. Additionally, a wireless communication transceiver can allow user data to be collected and transmitted to the manufacturer of the bouncer seat for evaluation and future improvements. In certain instances, the device 100 can include a camera, which can monitor a child positioned in the seat assembly 140 to learn about child behavior. Such a camera can be remotely controlled with a wireless communication transceiver, as further described herein.
EXAMPLES Example 1An infant-supporting device, comprising a seat assembly and a support assembly. The support assembly comprises a base, at least one arm movable between an extended orientation and a collapsed orientation relative to the base, and a spring. The at least one arm comprises a first arm end rotatably coupled to the base at a joint. The at least one arm further comprises a second arm end, wherein the seat assembly is releasably mountable to the second arm end, and wherein the second arm end is configured to rotate inward and downward toward the base when the at least one arm moves toward the collapsed orientation. The spring comprises a first spring end mounted to the base and a second spring end mounted to the at least one arm, wherein the spring is configured to facilitate oscillation of the seat assembly relative to the base when the seat assembly is mounted to the second arm end.
Example 2The infant-supporting device of Example 1, wherein the spring extends through the joint.
Example 3The infant-supporting device of Examples 1 or 2, wherein the seat assembly comprises a seat frame and an infant-supporting sling releasably attached to the seat frame.
Example 4The infant-supporting device of Example 3, wherein the seat assembly further comprises a vibration-generating system secured to the seat frame.
Example 5The infant-supporting device of Examples 1, 2, 3, or 4, wherein the base further comprises a rotational stop, and wherein the at least one arm further comprises a stop surface configured to abut the rotational stop when the at least one arm is in the extended orientation.
Example 6The infant-supporting device of Examples 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, wherein the at least one arm further comprises a camming surface configured to bias the at least one arm toward the extended orientation.
Example 7The infant-supporting device of Examples 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, wherein the base further comprises a spring-loaded detent, and wherein the at least one arm further comprises a groove configured to engage the spring-loaded detent when the at least one arm is in the extended orientation.
Example 8An infant-supporting device, comprising a seat assembly and a support assembly. The support assembly comprises a base, wherein a centerline is defined through the base. The support assembly also comprises an arm comprising a first end portion rotatably coupled to the base at a joint. The arm also comprises a second end portion, wherein the seat assembly is mountable to the second end portion, wherein the arm is configured to rotate between a first orientation and a second orientation relative to the base, and wherein the second end portion is configured to rotate toward the centerline as the arm rotates between the first orientation and the second orientation.
Example 9The infant-supporting device of Example 8, further comprising a spring mounted to the base and the arm, wherein the second end portion of the arm is deflectable relative to the base.
Example 10The infant-supporting device of Example 9, wherein the spring is enclosed in the support assembly.
Example 11The infant-supporting device of Examples 9 or 10, wherein the second end portion comprises a joint body supported for rotation relative to the base, and wherein the spring extends through the joint body.
Example 12The infant-supporting device of Examples 8, 9, 10, or 11, further comprising a second arm. The second arm comprising a first end portion rotatably coupled to the base at a second joint and a second end portion, wherein the seat assembly is mountable to the second end portion, wherein the second arm is configured to rotate between a first orientation and a second orientation relative to the base, and wherein the second end portion is configured to rotate toward the centerline as the second arm rotates between the first orientation and the second orientation.
Example 13The infant-supporting device of Examples 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12, wherein the seat assembly further comprises a quick-release button configured to release the seat assembly from the second end portion.
Example 14The infant-supporting device of Examples 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, or 13, wherein the seat assembly further comprises a vibration-generating system.
Example 15An infant-supporting device, comprising a seat assembly and a collapsible support assembly. The collapsible support assembly comprising a base, a pivot joint coupled to the base, and a spring member extending through the pivot joint, wherein the spring member comprises a first end portion secured to the base and a second end portion configured to deflect relative to the first end portion.
Example 16The infant-supporting device of Example 15, wherein the spring member is enclosed in the collapsible support assembly.
Example 17The infant-supporting device of Examples 15 or 16, wherein the collapsible support assembly further comprises an arm, and wherein the second end portion is secured to the arm.
Example 18The infant-supporting device of Example 17, further comprising a locking mechanism configured to hold the arm in an extended position relative to the base when the locking mechanism is engaged.
Example 19The infant-supporting device of Example 18, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a spring-loaded detent, and wherein the arm further comprises a groove configured to engage the spring-loaded detent when the arm is in the extended position.
Example 20The infant-supporting device of Example 19, wherein the spring-loaded detent further comprises a camming surface configured to bias the arm toward the extended position.
Example 21An infant-supporting device, comprising a seat frame and a support assembly. The support assembly comprising a base, an arm movably coupled to the base, and a spring member enclosed within the support assembly, wherein the spring member comprises a first end portion secured to the base and a second end portion secured to the arm.
Example 22The infant-supporting device of Example 21, wherein the seat frame is releasably mountable to the arm.
Example 23The infant-supporting device of Example 22, wherein the seat frame further comprises a quick-release button configured to release the seat frame from the arm.
Example 24The infant-supporting device of Examples 21, 22, or 23, wherein the arm comprises a first arm, and wherein the support assembly further comprises a second arm movably coupled to the base and a second spring member enclosed within the support assembly. The second spring member comprises a first end portion secured to the base and a second end portion secured to the second arm.
Example 25The infant-supporting device of Example 24, wherein the seat frame is releasably mountable to the second arm.
Example 26The infant-supporting device of Example 25, wherein the first arm and the second arm are rotatably coupled to the base, and wherein rotation of the first arm and the second arm relative to the base is restrained when the seat frame is mounted to the first arm and the second arm.
Example 27The infant-supporting device of Examples 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, or 26, further comprising a vibration-generating system fastened to the seat frame.
Example 28The infant-supporting device of Examples 21, 22, or 23, wherein the arm further comprises a joint body rotatably supported by the base, and wherein the spring member extends through the joint body.
Example 29The infant-supporting device of Example 28, wherein the arm is configured to rotate between a first orientation and a second orientation relative to the base, wherein the base further comprises a rotational stop, and wherein the joint body further comprises a stop surface configured to abut the rotational stop when the arm is in the first orientation.
Example 30The infant-supporting device of Example 29, wherein the joint body further comprises a camming surface configured to bias the arm toward the first orientation.
Example 31The infant-supporting device of Examples 29 or 30, wherein the base further comprises a spring-loaded detent, and wherein the joint body further comprises a groove configured to engage the spring-loaded detent when the arm is in the first orientation.
Example 32An infant-supporting device, comprising an infant seat assembly and a collapsible support assembly. The infant seat assembly comprises a mount. The collapsible support assembly comprises a base and an arm comprising a first end portion movably coupled to the base and a second end portion, wherein the mount is dimensioned to receive the second end portion. The collapsible support assembly further comprises a latching mechanism configured to releasably couple the second end portion to the mount.
Example 33The infant-supporting device of Example 32, wherein the latching mechanism comprises a first spring-biased button on the mount and a second spring-biased button on the second end portion.
Example 34The infant-supporting device of Example 33, wherein the first spring-biased button is movable between an unactuated position and an actuated position, and wherein the first spring-biased button is configured to engage the second spring-biased button when moved to the actuated position.
Example 35The infant-supporting device of Examples 32, 33, or 34, wherein the collapsible support assembly further comprises a spring member enclosed within the base and the arm.
Example 36The infant-supporting device of Examples 32, 33, 34, or 35, wherein the infant seat assembly further comprises a second mount, and wherein the collapsible support assembly further comprises a second arm. The second arm comprises a first end portion movably coupled to the base and a second end portion, wherein the second mount is dimensioned to receive the second end portion.
Although the various embodiments of the devices have been described herein in connection with certain disclosed embodiments, many modifications and variations to those embodiments may be implemented. Also, where materials are disclosed for certain components, other materials may be used. Furthermore, according to various embodiments, a single component may be replaced by multiple components, and multiple components may be replaced by a single component, to perform a given function or functions. The foregoing description and following claims are intended to cover all such modification and variations.
While this invention has been described as having exemplary designs, the present invention may be further modified within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its general principles.
Any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in whole or in part, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein is incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated materials does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.
Claims
1. An infant-supporting device, comprising:
- a seat assembly; and
- a support assembly, comprising: a base; at least one arm movable between an extended orientation and a collapsed orientation relative to said base, wherein said at least one arm comprises: a first arm end rotatably coupled to said base at a joint; and a second arm end, wherein said seat assembly is releasably mountable to said second arm end, and wherein said second arm end is configured to rotate inward and downward toward said base when said at least one arm moves toward the collapsed orientation; and a spring, comprising: a first spring end mounted to said base; and a second spring end mounted to said at least one arm, wherein said spring is configured to facilitate oscillation of said seat assembly relative to said base when said seat assembly is mounted to said second arm end.
2. The infant-supporting device of claim 1, wherein said spring extends through the joint.
3. The infant-supporting device of claim 1, wherein said seat assembly comprises a seat frame and an infant-supporting sling releasably attached to said seat frame.
4. The infant-supporting device of claim 3, wherein said seat assembly further comprises a vibration-generating system secured to said seat frame.
5. The infant-supporting device of claim 1, wherein said base further comprises a rotational stop, and wherein said at least one arm further comprises a stop surface configured to abut said rotational stop when said at least one arm is in the extended orientation.
6. The infant-supporting device of claim 1, wherein said at least one arm further comprises a camming surface configured to bias said at least one arm toward the extended orientation.
7. The infant-supporting device of claim 1, wherein said base further comprises a spring-loaded detent, and wherein said at least one arm further comprises a groove configured to engage said spring-loaded detent when said at least one arm is in the extended orientation.
8. An infant-supporting device, comprising:
- a seat assembly; and
- a support assembly, comprising: a base, wherein a centerline is defined through said base; an arm, comprising: a first end portion rotatably coupled to said base at a joint; and a second end portion, wherein said seat assembly is mountable to said second end portion, wherein said arm is configured to rotate between a first orientation and a second orientation relative to said base, and wherein said second end portion is configured to rotate toward the centerline as said arm rotates between the first orientation and the second orientation.
9. The infant-supporting device of claim 8, further comprising a spring mounted to said base and said arm, wherein said second end portion of said arm is deflectable relative to said base.
10. The infant-supporting device of claim 9, wherein said spring is enclosed in said support assembly.
11. The infant-supporting device of claim 9, wherein said second end portion comprises a joint body supported for rotation relative to said base, and wherein said spring extends through said joint body.
12. The infant-supporting device of claim 8, further comprising a second arm, comprising:
- a first end portion rotatably coupled to said base at a second joint; and
- a second end portion, wherein said seat assembly is mountable to said second end portion, wherein said second arm is configured to rotate between a first orientation and a second orientation relative to said base, and wherein said second end portion is configured to rotate toward the centerline as said second arm rotates between the first orientation and the second orientation.
13. The infant-supporting device of claim 8, wherein said seat assembly further comprises a quick-release button configured to release said seat assembly from said second end portion.
14. The infant-supporting device of claim 8, wherein said seat assembly further comprises a vibration-generating system.
15. An infant-supporting device, comprising:
- a seat assembly; and
- a collapsible support assembly, comprising: a base; a pivot joint coupled to said base; and a spring member extending through said pivot joint, wherein said spring member comprises: a first end portion secured to said base; and a second end portion configured to deflect relative to said first end portion.
16. The infant-supporting device of claim 15, wherein said spring member is enclosed in said collapsible support assembly.
17. The infant-supporting device of claim 16, wherein said collapsible support assembly further comprises an arm, and wherein said second end portion is secured to said arm.
18. The infant-supporting device of claim 17, further comprising a locking mechanism configured to hold said arm in an extended position relative to said base when said locking mechanism is engaged.
19. The infant-supporting device of claim 18, wherein said locking mechanism comprises a spring-loaded detent, and wherein said arm further comprises a groove configured to engage said spring-loaded detent when said arm is in the extended position.
20. The infant-supporting device of claim 19, wherein said spring-loaded detent further comprises a camming surface configured to bias said arm toward the extended position.
Type: Application
Filed: Jun 4, 2015
Publication Date: Mar 3, 2016
Inventors: Aaron S. Pavkov (Pittsburgh, PA), Robert D. Daley (Pittsburgh, PA), Daniel Kanitz (Pittsburgh, PA), Gabriel Goldman (Pittsburgh, PA), Justin Adleff (Gibsonia, PA)
Application Number: 14/731,125