CRADLING BASSINET

Abstract

A cradling bassinet to impart a rocking, swaying or gliding motion to soothe a child occupant includes a frame and an infant receiving receptacle. In example forms, the frame is movable between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. The infant receiving receptacle is pivotally mounted to the frame such that the infant receiving receptacle is capable of gliding or swaying relative to the frame. In some example forms, the infant receiving receptacle is removed from engagement with the frame and capable of rocking on a support surface.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 14/722,691 filed May 27, 2015, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/004,266 filed May 29, 2014, the entireties of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to the field of children's accessories and sleeping apparatuses for children and infants, and more particularly to rocking, swaying and gliding bassinets for infants and children.

SUMMARY

In example embodiments, the present invention provides a cradling bassinet that can impart a rocking, swaying or gliding motion to relax and soothe a child occupant to encourage sleeping. In one aspect, the present invention relates to a cradling bassinet including a collapsible frame having first and second frame portions pivotally mounted together at first and second pivot couplings, and an infant receiving receptacle pivotally mounted to the first and second pivot couplings for moving in a side-to-side gliding motion relative to the collapsible frame. A pair of swing arms are pivotally mounted to the first and second pivot couplings at first ends thereof, and second ends of the swing arms are pivotally mounted at each end of the infant receiving receptacle, and whereby the swing arms at each end thereof remain substantially parallel to each other throughout the side-to-side motion.

In example forms, the infant receiving receptacle includes a mattress therein, and wherein the mattress remains substantially horizontal throughout the side-to-side gliding motion. The first and second frame portions are generally U-shaped and each comprise a base portion and upright leg members extending from the base portion. In one example form, a cross brace is provided for connecting together at least one of the upright leg members of each of the first and second frame portions. The cross brace includes a first arm, a second arm, and a pivot coupling for pivotally coupling the first and second arms together. In some example forms, the pivot coupling includes an actuatable lock for permitting or preventing pivotal motion of the first and second arms relative thereto.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a cradling bassinet including a frame and an infant receiving receptacle pivotally mounted to the frame for swaying in a side-to-side motion along a generally arcuate path. The frame includes first and second U-shaped frame members mounted to first and second hubs. The infant receiving receptacle is pivotally mounted to the hubs, and at least one of the hubs includes a motor for providing the side-to-side movement to the infant receiving receptacle. In some example forms, the frame includes first and second U-shaped frame members pivotally mounted together at first and second pivot couplings. Optionally, the infant receiving receptacle includes a canopy mounted thereto for at least partially covering the infant receiving receptacle and a skirt mounted to an outer periphery thereof.

In still another aspect, the invention relates to a bassinet including a collapsible frame and an infant receiving receptacle. In example forms, when the infant receiving receptacle is pivotally mounted to the frame, the infant receiving receptacle is movable relative the collapsible frame in a swaying motion along an arcuate path, and wherein when the infant receiving receptacle is removed from pivotal engagement with the collapsible frame and the infant receiving receptacle is resting atop a support surface, the infant receiving receptacle is movable in a rocking motion along an arcuate path relative to the support surface. In example forms, the collapsible frame includes first and second U-shaped frame portions pivotally mounted together at first and second pivot couplings. The first and second U-shaped frame portions include base portions and first and second leg members extending therefrom, respectively. Optionally, one or more of the pivot couplings can include an actuatable member for permitting the collapsing or expansion of the collapsible frame. The infant receiving receptacle includes an infant receiving receptacle frame having pivot coupling receivers configured for pivotally coupling to hub extensions of the first and second pivot couplings. Preferably, the infant receiving receptacle frame includes lower arcuate supports configured for rocking on the support surface.

These and other aspects, features and advantages of the invention will be understood with reference to the drawing figures and detailed description herein, and will be realized by means of the various elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following brief description of the drawings and detailed description of the invention are exemplary and explanatory of preferred embodiments of the invention, and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an end perspective view of a gliding bassinet according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the gliding bassinet of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is an end perspective view of the gliding bassinet of FIG. 1, showing the collapsible frame of the bassinet in a folded, compact configuration.

FIG. 4 is an end perspective view of the gliding bassinet of FIG. 3, with the soft goods portion removed therefrom for better visibility of the frame components.

FIG. 5 is an end perspective view of the gliding bassinet of FIG. 4, showing the collapsible frame and bassinet frame thereof in an unfolded, expanded configuration.

FIGS. 6 and 7 show end perspective views of the gliding bassinet of FIG. 1 with directional arrows indicating gliding in a side-to-side motion.

FIG. 8 is an end perspective view of a swaying bassinet according to another example embodiment of the present invention, showing the bassinet swaying in a first direction.

FIG. 9 is an end perspective view of the swaying bassinet of FIG. 8, showing the bassinet swaying in a second direction generally opposite the first direction.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a swaying bassinet according to another example embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the swaying bassinet of FIG. 10, showing an infant receiving receptacle and frame thereof disengaged from the support frame thereof.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the swaying bassinet of FIG. 11, showing the infant receiving receptacle detached from the support frame, and with the infant receiving receptacle frame rocking on a support surface, and showing the support frame in a folded configuration.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a swaying bassinet according to another example embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the swaying bassinet of FIG. 13, showing a skirt coupled to a bottom portion of the infant receiving receptacle according to another example embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

The present invention may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of the invention taken in connection with the accompanying drawing figures, which form a part of this disclosure. It is to be understood that this invention is not limited to the specific devices, methods, conditions or parameters described and/or shown herein, and that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments by way of example only and is not intended to be limiting of the claimed invention. Any and all patents and other publications identified in this specification are incorporated by reference as though fully set forth herein.

Also, as used in the specification including the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural, and reference to a particular numerical value includes at least that particular value, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” or “approximately” one particular value and/or to “about” or “approximately” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment.

Generally described, the present invention relates to a cradling bassinet, which may be in various forms to impart a rocking, swaying or gliding motion to soothe a child occupant. According to some example forms of the present invention, the cradling bassinet provides a first motion in a first configuration and a second motion in a second configuration.

With reference now to the drawing figures, wherein like reference numbers represent corresponding parts throughout the several views, FIGS. 1-7 show a cradling bassinet 10 according to an example embodiment of the present invention. In example forms, the cradling bassinet 10 generally comprises a collapsible frame 12 and an infant receiving receptacle 14 pivotally mounted to the collapsible frame 12. The infant receiving receptacle 14 is configured to glide in a side-to-side motion for soothing a child or infant therein. In example forms, the side-to-side movement of the infant receiving receptacle 14 is provided by input from a caregiver, for example, by pushing or pulling the infant receiving receptacle 14. In alternate example forms, the bassinet 10 is configured to be powered by a motor and/or magnetic drive system, for example, which may be connected to a 110V/220V wall outlet or other power source. Optionally, one or more batteries may be provided for powering the motor and/or magnetic drive system.

In an example embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, the collapsible frame 12 comprises first and second U-shaped frame portions 16, 24 pivotally coupled together at first and second pivot couplings 34, 36. The first U-shaped frame portion 16 generally comprises a base portion 20, which extends generally horizontally along or near the support surface or floor, and a pair of upright leg members 22. Similarly, the second U-shaped frame portion 24 generally comprises a base portion 26 and upright leg members 30. One or more feet 32 may be mounted to the first and second U-shaped portions 16, 24, for example, near the corners thereof (intersections between base portions 20, 26 and upright leg members 22, 30), to provide a stable footing for resting against a support surface or floor. Optionally, the feet 32 may be positioned as desired on the first and/or second U-shaped portions 16, 24. According to one example form, the base portions of the first and second frame portions 16, 24 are generally arcuate in shape, for example, to provide a rocking base. According to another example form, the collapsible frame 12 is convertible between rocking and stationary, for example, wherein the rocking base or first and second frame portions 16, 24 are movably mounted to flip down and engage the support surface, which would allow for rocking thereof. Preferably, the rocking back could be moved out of engagement with the support surface to provide a stationary footing with the support surface. According to yet another form, the rocking base could be a separate component configured to removably receive a stationary bassinet. Optionally, the base portions 20, 26 and the upright leg members 22, 30 extending therefrom may be shaped as desired.

In typical example embodiments, a cross brace 40 is provided between the first and second U-shaped portions 16, 24 to limit the extent of the pivotal motion between the first and second U-shaped portions, for example, between an unfolded, expanded configuration (see FIGS. 1-2, 5-7) and a folded, collapsed configuration (see FIGS. 3-4). Generally, the cross brace 40 comprises a first arm 42, a second arm 44, and a pivot coupling 46 therebetween. In example forms, the first arm 42 is mounted to the upright leg member 22 and the pivot coupling 46, and the second arm 44 is mounted to the upright leg member 30 and the pivot coupling 46. Generally, the arms 42, 44 are mounted near the midpoint of the upright leg members 22, 30; however, the arms 42, 44 may be mounted at any position along the upright leg members 22, 30. According to one example form, the pivot coupling comprises a push button 47 to permit pivoting of the arms 42, 44 relative to each other, thereby permitting the first and second frame portions 16, 24 to pivot relative to each other, for example, when it is desired to expand or collapse the collapsible frame 12. Optionally, a twist button or other actuation mechanism may be provided for permitting and preventing movement of the arms 42, 44 relative to each other. Depending on the preferred angle between the first and second frame portions 16, 24, the length of the first and second arms 42, 44 can be shaped and sized accordingly.

As depicted in FIG. 2, the infant receiving receptacle 14 generally comprises a soft goods liner that is removably coupled to an infant receiving receptacle frame or bassinet frame 56 (as will be described below, see FIGS. 4-5). In example forms, the soft goods liner is generally formed from a fabric or other textile-like material (with or without padding), which may comprise one or more portions formed from a mesh lining, for example, to provide for allowing an infant or child therein to see through one or more walls of the liner. Optionally, the liner may be flexible (but not soft) like plastic or rubber with a living hinge or comprised of multiple panels. Optionally, the infant receiving receptacle may be formed from a rigid, bucket-style receiving receptacle. The floor of the infant receiving receptacle 14 preferably comprises a mattress 72 formed from one or more panels 74 that are foldable relative to each other to allow the infant receiving receptacle 14 to become compacted for storage (see FIG. 3).

FIGS. 4-5 show the infant receiving receptacle frame 56 in greater detail. As depicted, a pair of swing arms 52, 54 positioned near each end of the infant receiving receptacle frame 56 movably mount the infant receiving receptacle frame 56 to the collapsible frame 12, for example, to permit the infant receiving receptacle frame 56 to glide in a side-to-side motion. According to one example form, the swing arms 52, 54 are generally L-shaped and pivotally mount to the pivot couplings 34, 36 of the collapsible frame 12 and to a lower or bottom portion of the ends of the infant receiving receptacle frame 56. As depicted in FIG. 4, the swing arms 52, 54 are generally spaced a distance apart from each other and are substantially parallel with each other. Preferably, first ends of the swing arms 52, 54 are pivotally mounted to an inside portion of the pivot couplings 34, 36 and second ends of the swing arms 52, 54 are pivotally mounted to a portion of end frame members 60 of the infant receiving receptacle frame 56. According to one example form, a recess or pocket is formed on the interior side of the pivot couplings 34, 36 for receiving the first ends of the swing arms 52, 54. As described above, it is preferred that the swing arms 52, 54 are generally spaced apart in a similar manner at both the pivotal connection at the pivot couplings 34, 36 and at the first and second end frame members 60, which imparts the infant receiving receptacle frame 56 to glide in a side-to-side motion along a substantially similar horizontal plane. Thus, the mattress 72 within the infant receiving receptacle 14 remains substantially horizontal when moving in a side-to-side motion.

In typical example embodiments, the infant receiving receptacle frame 56 comprises the first and second end frame members 60, a lower support frame member 62 (connecting the first and second end frame members 60 together), and first and second upper frame members 64. Preferably, the ends of the upper frame members 64 are provided with pivot fittings 66 for pivotally coupling the ends of the upper frame members 64 to an upper portion of the first and second end frame members 60. Thus, the upper frame members 64 are capable of pivoting relative to the first and second end frame members 60 between a compacted configuration (see FIG. 4) and an expanded configuration (see FIG. 5) so that the infant receiving receptacle frame 56 (and collapsible frame 14) can be expanded and compacted, for example, when it is desired to use or store the cradling bassinet 10 in a closet, for packing in a vehicle, etc. As depicted in FIGS. 3-4, the upper frame members 64 are pivoted upward so that the infant receiving receptacle 14 is compact. The first and second pivot couplings 34, 36 may comprise an opening or grasping handles such that the expanded or collapsed cradling bassinet 10 can be easily lifted and carried. In example forms, the first and second end frame members 60 are generally L-shaped support members whereby lower portions thereof provide for receiving the lower support frame member 62 and the upper portions thereof provide for receiving the pivot fittings 66. Furthermore, the lower portions generally comprise a recess or receptacle for receiving the second ends of the swing arms 52, 54 to provide a pivotal connection therewith.

FIGS. 6-7 show the infant receiving receptacle 14 gliding in a side-to-side motion along a substantially similar horizontal plane. As described above, since the upper and lower portions of the swing arms 52, 54 are mounted at a substantially similar distance relative to each other, and with the swing arms 52, 54 being parallel to each other, the infant receiving receptacle 14 and the mattress 72 therein move in a side-to-side motion along a substantially similar horizontal plane. Optionally, the mounting positions of the pivotal connections of the ends of the swing arms 42, 44 with the pivotal couplings 34, 36 or with the first and second end frame members 60 may be adjustable such that the swing arms are not parallel relative to each other, thereby imparting at least a partial arcuate sway or swing motion. According to one form, the mounting positions of the pivotal couplings of the swing arms 42, 44 with the pivotal couplings 34, 36 can be adjusted as desired. Thus, according to some example forms, the cradling bassinet 10 is adjustable between two different types of side-to-side movement, for example, between a gliding, horizontal movement and a swaying or swinging movement along an arcuate path.

As described above, the side-to-side motion may be provided by manually pushing or pulling the infant receiving receptacle 14, or may be moved by an electric motor and/or magnetic drive system. In example forms, an electric motor is housed within the pivot coupling 34 and is linked to one or more of the swing arms 52, 54 that are pivotally coupled thereto. Furthermore, a magnetic drive member receiver 70 can be mounted to one of the end frame members 60 for providing interaction with another magnetic drive member of the pivot coupling 46 of the cross brace 40 (see FIG. 3). Preferably, one or more controls or buttons 80 may be provided on one of the pivot couplings 34, 36 (or provided elsewhere) for controlling the electric motor, magnetic drive system, etc. Optionally, other features including but not limited to a vibration, audible sounds, lights, etc. may be incorporated into the cradling bassinet 10. Optionally, the location of the motive drive force (motor, drive system, or other drive means) can vary, for example, wherein it can be located either wholly or partially in the hubs, legs, below the bassinet, etc.

FIGS. 8-9 show a cradling bassinet 100 according to another example embodiment of the present invention. As depicted, the cradling bassinet 100 generally comprises a frame 112 and an infant receiving receptacle 114 pivotally mounted to the frame. In example forms, the infant receiving receptacle 114 is capable of swinging in a side-to-side motion along an arcuate or curved path, for example, to soothe a child occupant (see directional arrows). The frame 112 generally comprises both a first U-shaped frame portion 116 having a base portion 120, upright leg members 122, and connectors 124 coupling the base portion 120 and leg members 122 together, and a second U-shaped frame portion 126 having a base portion 130, upright leg members 132, and connectors 134 coupling the base portion 130 and leg members 132 together. First and second hubs 136 are provided for connecting the first and second U-shaped frame portions 116, 126 together. According to one example form, the ends of the leg members 122, 132 that are coupled to the first and second hubs 136 are generally fixedly mounted thereto, for example, wherein the leg members 122, 132 (and ultimately the first and second U-shaped portions) are incapable of pivoting relative to each other or the hubs 136. Preferably, the leg members 122, 132 are capable of being removed from the hubs 136, but generally remain fixed therein when attached thereto. Optionally, the upright leg members 122, 132 are pivotally mounted to the hubs 136 such that the first and second U-shaped frame portions 116, 126 can pivot relative to each other. As similarly described above, the infant receiving receptacle 114 comprises a soft goods portion removably mounted atop an infant receiving receptacle frame 140. The infant receiving receptacle frame 140 generally comprises an upper frame portion (unshown) for defining the opening of the receptacle, a bottom support portion 142, and upright portions 144 extending from the ends of the bottom support portion 142. Preferably, the ends of the upright portions 144 are pivotally connected to the hubs 136 and define pivots 146. Preferably, an electric motor or magnetic drive system is incorporated within one or both of the hubs 136 to impart the swinging, side-to-side motion of the infant receiving receptacle. Optionally, a caregiver may cause the infant receiving receptacle 114 to move by pushing or pulling the same. Optionally, as described above, the location of the motive drive force (motor, drive system, or other drive means) can vary, for example, wherein it can be located either wholly or partially in the hubs, legs, below the bassinet, etc.

FIGS. 10-12 show a cradling bassinet 200 according to another example embodiment of the present invention. As depicted in FIG. 10, the cradling bassinet 200 comprises a collapsible frame 212 and an infant receiving receptacle 214 pivotally mounted to the collapsible frame 212. Preferably, the infant receiving receptacle provides a first motion in a first configuration and a second motion in a second configuration. For example, when the infant receiving receptacle 214 is pivotally mounted to the collapsible frame 212, the infant receiving receptacle is movable in a side-to-side swinging or swaying motion along a generally arcuate path (see FIG. 10). However, when the infant receiving receptacle 214 is disengaged from the collapsible frame 212, the infant receiving receptacle 214 can be placed atop a support surface and is movable in a front-to-back, rocking motion along a generally arcuate path (see FIG. 12). Thus, according to some example forms, the cradling bassinet 200 is convertible between a swaying or swinging bassinet, moving along a generally arcuate or curved path when pivotally mounted to the collapsible frame 212, and a rocking bassinet pivoting along a generally arcuate or curved path in a front-to-back, rocking motion.

As depicted in FIGS. 10-11, the collapsible frame 212 generally comprises first and second U-shaped frame portions 216, 224 that are pivotally mounted together at first and second pivot couplings 234. The first and second U-shaped portions 216, 224 each comprise base portions 220, 226 and upright leg members 222, 230 extending therefrom, respectively. One or more feet 232 may be provided on each of the U-shaped portions as desired, for example, to provide a stable footing for the collapsible frame 212 atop a support surface. Optionally, a lock or actuatable member 236 may be provided on one or both of the pivot couplings 234 to permit the collapsing or expansion of the collapsible frame 212. The infant receiving receptacle 214 comprises an infant receiving receptacle frame 240 comprising pivot coupling receivers 242, lower arcuate supports 244, and upper frame supports 246. The pivot coupling receivers 242 are preferably provide for pivotal engagement with the first and second pivot couplings 234 (or hub extensions thereof), thereby permitting the infant receiving receptacle to swing or sway side-to-side along an arcuate path relative to the collapsible frame. Optionally, the lock member 236 also provides positive engagement between the pivot coupling receivers 242 and the hub extensions of the pivot couplings 234 to prevent inadvertent detachment in use, and for permitting selective disengagement by an adult caregiver. In example embodiments, the upper frame support 246 and the lower arcuate supports 244 are generally coupled together to form a substantially rigid frame structure and accommodates for receiving a soft goods liner thereon. Optionally, a motive drive force (motor, drive system, or other drive means) may be provided for swinging the infant receiving receptacle in a side-to-side motion. Preferably, the motive drive force can be located either wholly or partially in the hubs, legs, below the bassinet, etc.

As depicted in FIG. 12, the infant receiving receptacle 214 may be provided as a rocker, for example, wherein the lower arcuate supports 244 thereof rest against a support surface to provide a front-to-back, rocking motion. In example forms, the collapsible frame 212 may be collapsed and put away while using the infant receiving receptacle 214 as a rocker. Preferably, at least a portion of the infant receiving receptacle frame 240 comprises grasping handles 250 positioned at either end of the receptacle 214 so that a caregiver can lift the receptacle 214 from the support surface, or for lifting the receptacle from the collapsible frame 212. According to some example forms, one or more straps or a harness may be provided within the infant receiving receptacle 214 for safely securing the child occupant within the infant receiving receptacle 214.

FIGS. 13-14 show a cradling bassinet 300 according to another example embodiment of the present invention. As depicted, the cradling bassinet 300 generally comprises a collapsible frame 312 and an infant receiving receptacle 314 pivotally mounted to the collapsible frame 312. The infant receiving receptacle 314 can pivot with respect to the collapsible frame 312 to impart a cradling, swinging or swaying motion to a child occupant. In example forms, the motion can be manually driven or motor driven, for example, wherein a motor is provided within a portion of one or more pivot couplings 334 of the collapsible frame or otherwise located on or within the bassinet 300 ora portion thereof (including the collapsible frame, hubs, etc.). The collapsible frame 312 generally comprises both a first U-shaped frame portion 316 comprising a base portion 320 and upright leg members 322 extending therefrom, and a second U-shaped frame portion 324 comprising a base portion 326 and upright leg members 330 extending therefrom. One or more feet 332 may be provided on one or more of the U-shaped frame portions as desired, for example, to provide a supportive footing for the collapsible frame 312 when resting atop a support surface. In example forms, the infant receiving receptacle 314 comprises an infant receiving receptacle frame for receiving a soft goods liner, which may comprise a mattress therein, and which may have an adjustable angle of inclination. Furthermore, according to some example forms, the infant receiving receptacle comprises a canopy 340 for covering at least a portion of the receptacle and a skirt 324 for hanging around the outer periphery of the receptacle.

While the invention has been described with reference to preferred and example embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that a variety of modifications, additions and deletions are within the scope of the invention, as defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. A bassinet comprising:

a frame comprising a base portion for supporting the bassinet on a support surface, the frame having first and second ends with a first pivot coupling at the first end and a second pivot coupling at the second end;

an infant receiving receptacle mounted between the first and second ends of the frame, the infant receiving receptacle comprising first and second end frame members, at least one lower support frame member extending between the first and second end frame members, and at least one upper frame member extending between the first and second end frame members; and

a first pair of swing arms coupled between the first pivot coupling of the frame and the first end frame member of the infant receiving receptacle, and a second pair of swing arms coupled between the second pivot coupling of the frame and the second end frame member of the infant receiving receptacle, the swing arms being pivotally coupled at first ends to the pivot couplings and pivotally coupled at second ends to the end frame members.

2. The bassinet of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second pairs of swing arms comprise a first swing arm and a second swing arm, the first and second swing arms being spaced a distance apart from one another, whereby the infant receiving receptacle glides relative to the frame in a substantially horizontal side-to-side motion.

3. The bassinet of claim 2, wherein the first and second swing arms of each of the first and second pairs of swing arms are generally parallel to one another, and spaced a substantially similar distance from one another at their first and second ends.

4. The bassinet of claim 1, wherein the frame comprises first and second generally U-shaped frame members, each of the first and second generally U-shaped frame members comprising a base member and a pair of upright leg members.

5. The bassinet of claim 4, wherein the upright leg members of the first and second generally U-shaped frame members are attached to one another by the first and second pivot couplings.

6. The bassinet of claim 5, wherein the upright leg members of the first and second generally U-shaped frame members are pivotally coupled to one another by the first and second pivot couplings, whereby the frame is collapsible between an unfolded configuration for use and a folded configuration for transport or storage.

7. The bassinet of claim 6, further comprising at least one cross-brace between the first and second generally U-shaped frame members to limit the extent of pivotal motion between the first and second generally U-shaped frame members.

8. The bassinet of claim 1, wherein the at least one upper frame member comprises a first upper frame member having a first end coupled to the first end frame member and a second end coupled to the second end frame member, and further comprises a second upper frame member having a first end coupled to the first end frame member and a second end coupled to the second end frame member, the first and second upper frame members combining to frame an upper opening for access into infant receiving receptacle.

9. The bassinet of claim 8, wherein the first and second upper frame members are pivotally coupled to the first and second end frame members, and movable between an expanded configuration for use and a compacted configuration for transport or storage.

10. The bassinet of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second end frame members are generally L-shaped, having a lower generally horizontally extending portion for coupling with the second ends of the swing arms, and an upper generally vertically extending portion for coupling with the at least one upper frame member of the infant receiving receptacle.

11. The bassinet of claim 1, further comprising an electronic drive system for moving the infant receiving receptacle in a substantially horizontal side-to-side gliding motion relative to the frame.

12. A bassinet comprising:

a frame for supporting the bassinet on a support surface;

an infant receiving receptacle comprising an infant receiving receptacle frame and a soft-goods liner attached to the infant receiving receptacle frame; and

a first pair of swing arms pivotally coupled between the frame and the infant receiving receptacle at a first side of the bassinet, and a second pair of swing arms pivotally coupled between the frame and the infant receiving receptacle at a second side of the bassinet, each of the first and second pairs of swing arms being spaced a distance apart and generally parallel to one another, whereby swinging of the first and second pairs of swing arms relative to the frame imparts a generally horizontal gliding motion to the infant receiving receptacle.

13. The bassinet of claim 12, wherein the frame comprises first and second frame portions coupled to one another at the first and second sides of the bassinet.

14. The bassinet of claim 13, wherein the first and second frame portions are pivotally coupled to one another by first and second pivot couplings allowing the first and second frame portions to fold and unfold between a folded configuration for transport or storage and an unfolded configuration for use.

15. The bassinet of claim 14, further comprising at least one cross-brace between the first and second frame portions to limit the extent of pivotal motion therebetween.

16. The bassinet of claim 12, wherein the infant receiving receptacle frame comprises first and second end frame members, at least one lower support frame member extending between the first and second end frame members, and at least one upper frame member extending between the first and second end frame members.

17. The bassinet of claim 16, wherein the at least one upper frame member comprises a first upper frame member having a first end coupled to the first end frame member and a second end coupled to the second end frame member, and further comprises a second upper frame member having a first end coupled to the first end frame member and a second end coupled to the second end frame member, the first and second upper frame members combining to frame an upper opening for access into infant receiving receptacle.

18. The bassinet of claim 17, wherein the first and second upper frame members are pivotally coupled to the first and second end frame members, and movable between an expanded configuration for use and a compacted configuration for transport or storage.

19. The bassinet of claim 16, wherein each of the first and second end frame members are generally L-shaped, having a lower horizontal portion for coupling with the swing arms, and an upper vertical portion for coupling with the at least one upper frame member of the infant receiving receptacle.

20. The bassinet of claim 12, further comprising an electronic drive system for moving the infant receiving receptacle in a substantially side-to-side gliding motion relative to the frame.

21. A bassinet comprising:

a frame for supporting the bassinet on a support surface, the frame comprising first and second generally U-shaped frame members, each of the first and second generally U-shaped frame members comprising a base member and a pair of upright leg members, wherein the upright leg members of the first and second generally U-shaped frame members are pivotally coupled to one another by the first and second pivot couplings, whereby the frame is collapsible between an unfolded configuration for use and a folded configuration for transport or storage;

an infant receiving receptacle mounted between the first and second ends of the frame, the infant receiving receptacle comprising first and second end frame members, at least one lower support frame member extending between the first and second end frame members, a first upper frame member having a first end coupled to the first end frame member and a second end coupled to the second end frame member, and a second upper frame member having a first end coupled to the first end frame member and a second end coupled to the second end frame member, the first and second upper frame members combining to frame an upper opening for access into infant receiving receptacle, wherein the first and second upper frame members are pivotally coupled to the first and second end frame members, and movable between an expanded configuration for use and a compacted configuration for transport or storage; and

a first pair of swing arms coupled between the first pivot coupling of the frame and the first end frame member of the infant receiving receptacle, and a second pair of swing arms coupled between the second pivot coupling of the frame and the second end frame member of the infant receiving receptacle, the swing arms being pivotally coupled at first ends to the pivot couplings and pivotally coupled at second ends to the end frame members, wherein each of the first and second pairs of swing arms comprise a first swing arm and a second swing arm, the first and second swing arms being spaced a distance apart and generally parallel to one another, whereby swinging of the first and second pairs of swing arms relative to the frame imparts a generally horizontal gliding motion to the infant receiving receptacle.

22. The bassinet of claim 21, further comprising at least one cross-brace between the first and second generally U-shaped frame members to limit the extent of pivotal motion between the first and second generally U-shaped frame members.

23. The bassinet of claim 21, wherein each of the first and second end frame members are generally L-shaped, having a lower generally horizontally extending portion for coupling with the second ends of the swing arms, and an upper generally vertically extending portion for coupling with the first and second upper frame members of the infant receiving receptacle.

24. The bassinet of claim 21, further comprising an electronic drive system for moving the infant receiving receptacle in a substantially side-to-side gliding motion relative to the frame.