MULTI-POSITION CHILDREN'S SUPPORT SYSTEM

Abstract

A multi-position support system for supporting a child, the system including a base, a child support assembly supported by the base, and a positional adjustment mechanism allowing a user to selectively position the child support assembly in one of a plurality of activity positions.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/395,158 filed Sep. 15, 2016, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to the field of children's accessories, and more particularly to an ergonomic support system for children that is reconfigurable by an adult caregiver to allow adjustment and variation of the system's support structure and support position.

BACKGROUND

As children develop, they typically not only grow physically larger, but also undergo various anthropometric and developmental changes. These changes result in differing needs for physically supporting a child, for example during rest and play, at different stages of their development.

For example, when a baby is first born, their spine will typically have a convex curve in the shape of a C. Newborn infants (for example 0-3 months of age) typically do not yet have the muscle strength to hold up the head, and therefore need head and neck support. Over the next few months after birth (for example 3-6 months), a child begins developing muscle strength in the neck and back, and typically develops a secondary curve of the upper spine (the cervical curve). As the child continues to grow and develop (for example 6-12 months), the child begins to crawl, and the lumbar curve develops in the lower back. Because the child's size and physical support needs change over time, different types of support devices are commonly used for children of different ages.

Different seating and support positions may also be desirable, depending on the child's activity, even for children of the same age. For example, a more flat horizontal support structure may be desired for a child while sleeping on their back, whereas a more upright support structure may be desired during play time for interaction with toys and other persons. And a different support structure may be desirable for tummy time, when a child is positioned on their stomach and learning to push up and raise their head. Various different support devices are commonly used for these different activities.

As a result of these different support needs, parents commonly purchase multiple support devices for children at different stages of a child's development and for different activities. Accordingly, it has been found that needs exist for improved support systems for children that can be reconfigured to fit a growing child, to provide appropriate physical support across a range of developmental stages, and to allow for use in a variety of activities. Needs further exist for continuing improvements to comfort, fit and design in support systems for children. It is to the provision of improved support systems for children meeting these and other needs that the present invention is primarily directed.

SUMMARY

In example embodiments, the present invention provides improved support systems for children that can be reconfigured to fit a growing child, to provide appropriate physical support across a range of developmental stages, and to allow for use in a variety of activities. In example embodiments, the present invention also provides support systems for children having improved comfort, fit and design. In particular embodiments, a children's support system according to the invention may provide reconfigurable support for a child through one or more different development stages, such as for example 0-3 months, 3-6 months, and 6-12 months of age. In particular embodiments, a children's support system according to the invention may provide reconfigurable support for a child during one or more different activities, such as for example sleeping or resting on their back, a partially upright passive seated support position, a more upright active seated support position, and/or for tummy time.

In one aspect, the present invention relates to a multi-position support system for supporting a child. The system preferably includes a base, a child support assembly supported by the base, and a positional adjustment mechanism allowing a user to selectively position the child support assembly in one of a plurality of activity positions.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a multi-position support system for supporting a child. The system preferably includes a base, a child support assembly supported by the base and having a breathable mesh support panel configured to receive and support a child thereon, and a positional adjustment mechanism allowing a user to selectively position the child support assembly in one of a plurality of activity positions.

In still another aspect, the invention relates to a multi-position support system for supporting a child. The system preferably includes a base, a child support assembly supported by the base, and a positional adjustment mechanism allowing a user to selectively position the child support assembly in one of a plurality of activity positions. The plurality of activity positions preferably include a first inclined activity position wherein at least a portion of the child support assembly is oriented at an angle of inclination of between about 60°-90° relative to horizontal, a second inclined activity position wherein at least a portion of the child support assembly is oriented at an angle of inclination of between about 30°-60° relative to horizontal, a resting/sleep activity position wherein at least a portion of the child support assembly is oriented at an angle of inclination of between about 0°-30° relative to horizontal, and a tummy time activity position wherein at least a portion of the child support assembly is oriented at an angle of inclination of between about 0°-−25° relative to horizontal. In particular example embodiments, a tummy time activity position is inclined at about 0°-10° relative to horizontal. In further example embodiments the tummy time activity position is inclined at about 15°-25° relative to horizontal. In particular example embodiments, the tummy time activity position is inclined at about 20° relative to horizontal. In still further example embodiments, a tummy time activity position is provided within a range of incline or decline angle relative to horizontal of for example about +/−0°-−20° (i.e., between an upwardly inclined angle of 20° and a downwardly declined angle of 20°, relative to horizontal).

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 example embodiments are explanatory of example embodiments of the invention, and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a children's support system according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an assembly view of a children's support system according to another example embodiment of the present invention, showing components thereof partially separated from one another.

FIG. 3A is a schematic view of different activity positions of a child, to which children's support systems according to example embodiments of the invention may be applicable; and FIG. 3B shows a children's support system according to another example embodiment of the present invention, adjusted to positions corresponding to those activity positions.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a children's support system according to another example embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C and 5D show the children's support system of FIG. 4 adjusted through a range of support positions.

FIG. 6 is a perspective assembly view of a children's support system according to another example embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C and 7D show the children's support system of FIG. 6 adjusted through a range of support positions.

FIG. 8 shows a support harness portion of a children's support system according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a children's support system according to another example embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 9B and 9C show adjustment of the system to different support positions.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a children's support system according to another example embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a children's support system according to another example embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C and 12D show a children's support system 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 example embodiments 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.

With reference now to the drawing figures, wherein like reference numbers represent corresponding parts throughout the several views, FIG. 1 shows a children's support system 10 according to an example embodiment of the present invention. The system 10 generally comprises a base 20, a child support portion 50, and a toy bar 90. The base 20 comprises first and second side lower support legs 22, 24, a rear lower support cross-member 26, and first and second side upper support legs 28, 30. The first and second side upper support legs 28, 30 optionally comprise extensions of the first and second side lower support legs 22, 24, coupled thereto by intermediate leg portions 32, 34. In example embodiments, at least the intermediate leg portions 32, 34 are flexible and elastically resilient, for example having the form of leaf springs or torsion springs, allowing the support system 10 to function as a bouncer. In particular embodiments, the resilient portions of the base 20 are formed from a shape-memory polymeric elastomer such as for example DuPont Hytrel™. Alternatively, the support base 20 is substantially rigid, and/or includes other motion elements.

The child support portion 50 comprises a support yoke 52 for mounting the child support portion to the base 20, optionally including detachable coupling means allowing the support portion to be removed from and reattached to the base. A support frame 54 is repositionably coupled to the support yoke 52 by pivotal or rotational mounting hubs 56 at each side of the yoke. A positional adjustment mechanism including release actuator 57 allows the support portion 50 to be repositioned between two or more support positions by an adult caregiver. In example forms, the support frame 54 comprises a generally rectangular molding having first and second sides 58, 60, a lower or foot-end cross-piece 62, and an upper or head-end cross-piece 64, defining a central opening within the frame. The head-end cross-piece 64 is optionally split, with a medial segment removed or omitted for flexibility and comfort of the support portion 50 in use. A breathable mesh support panel 70 is affixed to the support frame 54 over its central opening, to support a child resting or playing thereon. In example embodiments, the support panel 70 comprises a multi-layer assembly having a base or lower layer 72 formed from a molded thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or shape-memory polymeric elastomer such as for example DuPont Hytrel™, providing structural shape and support; and a top or upper layer 74 formed from a synthetic mesh fabric such as Lycra™ or Nylon™. The support panel 70 comprises a network of openings for ventilation, temperature modulation, moisture release, and comfort, for example providing larger (about ¼″ to ½″) openings through the lower layer mesh 72 and smaller (⅛″ to ¼″, or smaller) openings through the upper layer mesh 74. The upper layer 74 may be at least partially transparent or translucent, allowing visibility or light passage through the upper layer and through the openings of the lower layer. The multi-layer arrangement of the support panel 70 is optionally configured to be semi-rigid, wherein it is sufficiently flexible and compactable to be collapsed and pressed flat for compact storage and transport, but to retain a three-dimensional architecture and provide shape support for when expanded and mounted to the frame 54. In this manner, the support panel 70 conforms to the size and shape of the child as the child grows, and its contour automatically changes to match postural support needs at different developmental stages and in different activity positions of the child. The child support portion 50 optionally further comprises a harness 80 for retaining a child in position supported on the child support portion. Optionally, repositionable attachment points are provided for attaching an adjustable harness at different locations to accommodate children of different sizes.

The toy bar 90 is attached to the base 20 and/or the child support portion 50, for example by arms of the toy bar coupling with mounting hubs 56 positioned along opposite sides of the support portion. The toy bar 90 is optionally repositionable and/or detachable, allowing for adjustment depending on the size of the child and/or the activity state, or to be removed for cleaning, access or interaction with the child. The toy bar 90 includes one or more toys 92 suspended from or otherwise attached to the upper crossbar. The toys 92 are optionally interchangeable to provide variety and to provide toys suited to the child's developmental stage. For example, large-pattern black and white toys may be more suited to a child in early developmental stages, while more detailed multi-colored toys may be more suited to later developmental stages. Optionally, the toy bar 90 has sufficient structural integrity to also function as a carrying handle, for example supporting about 50 lbs. or more for a sustained duration without detachment. Further optionally, the system 10 includes one or more storage compartments for storing toys not being used.

FIG. 2 shows another example embodiment of a child support system 110 according to another example embodiment of the present invention. The system 110 generally comprises a base 120 and a child support portion 150, in similar fashion to the above described embodiment, with differences as noted. The base 120 includes first and second legs 122, 124 having rockers 126, 128 mounted thereon, allowing the system 110 to rock on a floor or underlying support surface. Optionally, the rockers can be rotated or otherwise moved out of contact with the support surface, to transition the rocker to a stationary seat. The support frame 154 is repositionably coupled to the support yoke 152 by pivotal or rotational mounting hubs 156 at each side of the yoke. A positional adjustment mechanism including release actuator 157 allows the support portion 150 to be repositioned between two or more support positions by an adult caregiver. The head-end cross-piece of the support frame 154 comprises a medial cutout segment 165 to provide flexibility and comfort in use. The mesh support panel includes a base or lower layer 172 and a top or upper layer 174, and a harness 180, substantially as described above. In example embodiments, the harness 180 comprises a die-cut elastomeric body with micro-perforations for breathability, and integral straps/single piece construction. The top or upper layer 174 is optionally removable from the base or lower layer 172 for washing or replacement.

FIGS. 3A and 3B show different activity positions of a child C, and corresponding position adjustments of a children's support system 210A, 210B, 210C, 210D, according to example embodiments of the invention, respectively. For example, in an active play position, the child is supported in a position adjustment of the children's support system 210A with the child support portion oriented at a first angle A of between about 60°-90°; in an engaged or passive play position, the child is supported in a position adjustment of the children's support system 210B with the child support portion oriented at a second angle B of between about 30°-60°; in a resting/sleep position, the child is supported in a position adjustment of the children's support system 210C with the child support portion oriented at a third angle C of between about 0°-30°; and in a tummy time position, the child is supported in a position adjustment of the children's support system 210D with the child support portion oriented at a fourth angle D of between about 0°-25° relative to horizontal. In particular example embodiments, the tummy time activity position is inclined at about 0°-10° relative to horizontal. In further example embodiments the tummy time activity position is inclined at about 15°-25° relative to horizontal. In particular example embodiments, the tummy time activity position is inclined at about 20° relative to horizontal. In still further example embodiments, a tummy time activity position is provided within a range of incline or decline angle relative to horizontal of for example about +/−0°-20° (i.e., between an upwardly inclined angle of 20° and a downwardly declined angle of 20°, relative to horizontal.

FIGS. 4 and 5A-5D show a children's support system 310 according to another example embodiment of the invention. The support system 310 generally comprises a base 320, a positional adjustment mechanism 340, a child support assembly 370, and a toy bar or accessory arm 390. The base 320 comprises a platform having first and second support members 322, 324 and a medial cross-member 326 extending over and across a generally central portion of the base platform. In the depicted embodiment, the first and second support members 322, 324 comprise a closed peripheral loop assembly of flat bar segments defining an open center area, and the medial cross-member 326 comprises a strut extending between mounting flanges on opposite sides of the peripheral loop assembly. The positional adjustment mechanism 340 comprises an arcuately curved or angled support yoke or flange 342 having a central portion extending through or otherwise supported by the medial cross-member 326 of the support base 320. Upwardly extending first and second ends of the support yoke or flange 342 are repositionably coupled to first and second support panels 372, 374 of the child support assembly 370, for example by a pivotal or hinged bearing or coupling 350 and a sliding or translational bearing or coupling 352. In example form, the sliding or translational bearing or coupling 352 comprises a pin attached to the second end of the support yoke or flange 342, which slides in a slot or channel of a bracket attached to the second support panel 374 of the child support assembly 370. The first and second support panels 372, 374 of the child support assembly 370 are pivotally coupled to one another at a central hinge joint, with a lock-and-release mechanism having a release actuator 380 allowing an adult caregiver to selectively adjust the position of the child support assembly. In example embodiments, the first and second support panels 372, 374 define generally curved or concave upper support surfaces configured for comfortably supporting a child, and optionally comprise one or more cutout sections 376, 378 for ventilation and temperature regulation. The cutout sections 376, 378 may be open, or may have a mesh covering applied thereto. In the depicted embodiment, the toy bar or accessory arm 390 includes a vertical upright post 392, a horizontal extension arm 394, and a toy or other accessory 396 such as a light, projector, speaker or other entertainment feature. The toy bar or accessory arm 390 is optionally selectively repositionable, for example by a hinged coupling, and/or extensible and retractable, for example by one or more telescopingly engaged sections, to allow the toy or other accessory to be moved toward and away from the child support assembly 370 and repositioned to accommodate different support positions. Optionally, one or more additional entertainment features such as a vibration unit, audio player, communications monitor, smart-phone adaptor, or the like is/are additionally provided, for example attached to the base, support assembly or toy bar.

FIGS. 5A-5D show a range of positional adjustment of the child support assembly 370 according to example embodiments and modes of use. For example, FIG. 5A shows a generally flat configuration, with the first support panel or seatback 372 positioned generally horizontally (0°-10°) in a tummy time position; FIG. 5B shows a first inclined configuration, with the first support panel or seatback 372 positioned at a first lesser inclined angle (0°-30° relative to horizontal) in a resting/sleep activity position; FIG. 5C shows a second inclined configuration, with the first support panel or seatback 372 positioned at a second medium inclined angle (30°-60° relative to horizontal) in an engaged or passive activity position; and FIG. 5D shows a third inclined configuration, with the first support panel or seatback 372 positioned at a third higher inclined angle (60°-90° relative to horizontal) in an active activity position. In alternate embodiments, the seatback 372 or other support surface is positioned at angle of between 0°-25° relative to horizontal in the tummy time position. In particular example embodiments, the tummy time activity position is inclined at about 0°-10° relative to horizontal. In further example embodiments the tummy time activity position is inclined at about 15°-25° relative to horizontal. In particular example embodiments, the tummy time activity position is inclined at about 20° relative to horizontal. In still further example embodiments, a tummy time activity position is provided within a range of incline or decline angle relative to horizontal of for example about +/−0°-20° (i.e., between an upwardly inclined angle of 20° and a downwardly declined angle of 20°, relative to horizontal. In use, a parent or adult caregiver selectively positions the child support assembly 370 in a desired activity position by operation of the release actuator 380 and manipulation of the first and second support panels 372, 374, locks the support assembly in the desired activity position, and places the child on their stomach or back on the support assembly. If desired, the caregiver may secure the child in place with a harness as described above.

FIGS. 6 and 7A-7D show a children's support system 410 according to another example embodiment of the invention. The support system 410 generally comprises a base 420, a positional adjustment mechanism 440, a child support assembly 470, and a harness or child restraint 490. The base 420 comprises a pair of rockers 422, 424 and forward and rear support bars 426, 428. The a child support assembly 470 comprises a first support panel or seatback 472 pivotally coupled to a second support panel or seat base 474, configured for positional adjustment between a plurality of different activity positions. The positional adjustment mechanism 440 comprises a hinged coupling 450 between the rear support bar 428 and the first support panel 472, and a sliding or translational coupling 452 between the forward support bar 426 and the second support panel 474. In example embodiments, the translational coupling 452 comprises a T-shaped flange 454 on forward support bar 426 configured to slide within a slot or channel 456 on the lower surface of the second support panel 474. A release mechanism or latch 460 allows a caregiver to adjust the position of the child support assembly 470, and retains the support assembly in the selected position. A flexible seat liner or pad 480, for example an ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) thermoformed foam seat pad, is optionally provided to overlie the child support assembly 470 and generally confirm with its shape, and to prevent potential contact with interference or pinch points. The harness or child restraint 490 is secured to the child support assembly 470 over the seat liner or pad 480. A toy bar or accessory support 495 is optionally pivotally or otherwise repositionably attached to the child support assembly 470.

FIGS. 7A-7D show a range of positional adjustment of the child support assembly 470 according to example embodiments and modes of use. For example, FIG. 7A shows a first inclined configuration, with the first support panel 472 positioned at a first more inclined angle (60°-90° relative to horizontal) in an active activity position; FIG. 7B shows a second inclined configuration, with the first support panel 472 positioned at a second medium inclined angle (30°-−60° relative to horizontal) in an engaged or passive activity position; FIG. 7C shows a third inclined configuration, with the first support panel 472 positioned at a third lesser inclined angle (0°-30° relative to horizontal) in a resting/sleep activity position; and FIG. 7D shows a generally flat configuration, with the first support panel 472 positioned at a generally flat or reclined angle, for example within a range of incline or decline angle relative to horizontal of about +/−0°-−20° (i.e., between an upwardly inclined angle of 0°-−20° and a downwardly declined angle of 0°-20°), relative to horizontal), in a tummy time activity position. In example embodiments, one or both of the first and second support panels 472, 474 are repositionable between one or more relative angular orientations corresponding to different activity positions of the child; for example wherein the first and second support panels define a right angle (about 90°) relative to one another, wherein the first and second support panels define one or more obtuse angles (90°-180°) relative to one another, and/or wherein the first and second support panels define one or more reflex angles (180°-270°, more preferably 180°-210°) relative to one another.

FIG. 8 shows additional detail of a harness or child restraint 490 used to secure a child C in position within a children's support system according to an example embodiment of the invention. In example embodiments, the harness or child restraint 590 comprises a generally T-shaped trilobed body having first and second side lobes 592, 594 extending generally transversely from one another, and a lower lobe 596 extending orthogonally therefrom. The lobes and body portion of the harness or child restraint 590 may comprise one or more coupling or attachment members, such as interengaging components of a hook-and-loop fastener system (e.g., Velcro™), snaps, buttons, clips, buckles, hooks or other coupling or attachment means. First and second armholes 598 are provided adjacent the first and second side lobes 592, 594, through which the child's arms are positioned, and the first and second side lobes and the lower lobe 596 are attached by the coupling means over the child's chest or torso (or over the child's back in tummy time positioning), to hold the child in place on the child support assembly.

FIGS. 9A-9C show different activity positions of a child support system 610 according to another example embodiment of the invention. The child support system 610 comprises a ring shaped peripheral base flange 620, comprising first and second side lateral rocker portions and front and rear transverse rocker portions, providing the child support system with a front-to-back and/or side-to-side rocking motion. A plurality of support legs 640, 642, 644, 646 support an upper support ring 660 at an elevated position above the base flange 620. A child support assembly 670 is repositionably supported by the upper support ring 660. The child support assembly 670 comprises a seat bottom portion 672 pivotally coupled to a backrest portion 674. Optionally, a footrest portion 676 is pivotally coupled to the seat bottom portion 672, and a headrest portion 678 is extensibly and retractably coupled to the backrest portion 674. In use, the angular orientation of the seat bottom portion 672 relative to the backrest portion 674 is selectively reconfigurable by repositioning one or both components relative to the upper support ring 660. The footrest portion 676 is selectively reconfigurable by repositioning it relative to the seat bottom portion 672. And the headrest portion 678 is selectively reconfigurable by extension and retraction relative to the backrest portion 674.

FIG. 10 shows a children's support system 710 according to another example embodiment of the invention. The support system 710 comprises a support base 720, first and second generally upright support legs 730, 732 extending upwardly from the base, and a child support assembly 750 supported a distance above the base by the support legs. The child support assembly 750 comprises a seatback portion 752 that is angularly repositionable relative to a seat base portion 754, a footrest portion 756 that is angularly repositionable relative to the seat base portion, and a headrest portion 758 that is translationally repositionable relative to the seatback portion. The child support assembly 750 optionally further comprises armrests or side bolsters 770 along each side of the seat base portion 754. One or more selectively inflatable air bladders are optionally provided on one or more portions of the child support assembly 750, allowing selective fit adjustment of the support system 710 to adapt the system to the size and activity of a child seated therein, and to provide additional comfort, support, and stability.

FIG. 11 shows a children's support system 810 according to another example embodiment of the invention. The support system 810 comprises a C-shaped support base 820, with a plurality of upright support legs 830, 832 and additional support struts 834, 836 extending upwardly from the base, and a child support assembly 850 supported a distance above the base by the support legs. The support base 820 may optionally comprise rocker arms to provide a rocking motion, or alternatively a stable non-rocking support base. The child support assembly 850 comprises a seatback portion 852 that is angularly repositionable relative to a seat base portion 854, a footrest portion 856 that is angularly repositionable relative to the seat base portion, and a headrest portion 858 that is translationally repositionable relative to the seatback portion. Optionally, repositioning the headrest portion 858 exposes or covers strap connection points for attaching a child restraint or harness at different locations corresponding to the different sizes of a growing child. The child support assembly 850 optionally further comprises armrests or side bolsters 870 along each side of the seat base portion 854.

FIGS. 12A-12D show a children's support system 910 according to another example embodiment of the invention. The support system 910 comprises a support base 920, optionally comprising a rocker base, and support struts 922 extending upwardly from the support base and supporting a child support assembly 930. The child support assembly 930 is shown in further detail in FIG. 12B, and comprises a lower seat pan or shell 932, for example comprising a polypropylene or other substantially rigid plastic or other material, and a fabric or soft goods cover 934 configured for removable attachment over the lower seat pan. The seat cover 934 optionally comprises one or more inflatable or otherwise reconfigurable sections, for example in the form of a plurality of selectively inflatable air bladders 936, forming supports or seat bolsters that may be configured to fit a child's stage of development and/or activity. For example, in FIG. 12C, an inner head support bolster 940 and proximal lateral side support bolsters 944 are inflated or expanded, while an outer peripheral head support bolster 942 and distal lateral side bolsters 946 are deflated or retracted, providing a support configuration adapted to a younger infant (e.g., 0-2 months of age). FIG. 12A shows another configuration, wherein the inner head support bolster 940 and lateral side support bolsters 944 are deflated or retracted, and the outer peripheral head support bolster 942 and distal lateral side bolsters 946 are inflated or expanded, providing a support configuration adapted to a larger or older child (e.g., 2-6 months of age). For still older or larger children (e.g., 6-12 months) all of the bolsters may be deflated or retracted to provide more freedom of movement and a larger or more open seating area. One or more of the air bladders 936, or portions thereof, are optionally visible through one or more cutout or transparent sections of the seat cover 934 for external visibility. The support system 910 optionally includes an electric or manual air pump, compressor, oral inflation valves, or other inflation means, allowing an adult caregiver to selectively inflate or deflate one or more of the inflatable bolsters or seat sections, and buttons, switches or other control actuators 950 for controlling the inflation, deflation or other seat configuration features.

The support system 910 optionally further comprises a reconfigurable harness or strap system 960 for retaining a child in position on the support assembly 930. The reconfigurable harness or strap system 960 may be detachably or permanently attached to the support assembly 930, and optionally includes multiple strap sections adapted to different configurations for different size or age of a child and/or for different activities. In the depicted embodiment, a lower or base harness portion 962 defines a waist belt portion and a crotch strap portion, providing a three-point harness configuration. A selectively detachable accessory harness portion 964 includes shoulder straps and a coupling for detachable engagement with the base harness portion, and when installed provides a five-point harness configuration. The support assembly 930 optionally comprises two or more sets of harness attachment points, allowing the harness 960 to be mounted in different positions or configurations as a child grows or for different seating positions or activities. A positional adjustment mechanism 970 is optionally provided, allowing positional adjustment, for example between two or more incline/recline support or activity positions as described above, of the support assembly 930 relative to the base 920.

The support system 910 optionally further comprises a reconfigurable toy or accessory bar 990. In example embodiments, the accessory bar 990 is repositionable relative to and/or detachable from the support assembly 930 and/or the base 920. In example embodiments, the accessory bar 990 comprises one or more toys or accessories 992 that are configured for detachable mounting to the bar, for example by means of slots 994 through the bar that are configured to receive and engage flanges, buttons or other retention portions 996 of the accessories, as shown in FIG. 12D. The accessories may be in the form of suspended or swinging items 992 adapted to hang from a cord or other flexible member, lights and/or sound generators 998 adapted to clip directly onto the bar, or other interactive accessories for entertaining or engaging a child seated in the support system 910. The accessories may be positioned on the top crossbar portion of the accessory bar 990, and/or on the side arm portions of the accessory bar. In example embodiments, lights and/or sound generators 998 are positioned on the side arm portions of the accessory bar, along lateral sides of the support assembly, to encourage head movement, tracking and muscle development of the child.

While the invention has been described with reference to 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 multi-position support system for supporting a child, the system comprising a base, a child support assembly supported by the base, and a positional adjustment mechanism allowing a user to selectively position the child support assembly in one of a plurality of activity positions.

2. The multi-position support system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of activity positions comprise at least one inclined activity position and a generally horizontal activity position.

3. The multi-position support system of claim 2, wherein the plurality of activity positions comprise a first inclined activity position wherein at least a portion of the child support assembly is oriented at an angle of inclination of between about 60°-90° relative to horizontal, a second inclined activity position wherein at least a portion of the child support assembly is oriented at an angle of inclination of between about 30°-−60° relative to horizontal, a resting/sleep activity position wherein at least a portion of the child support assembly is oriented at an angle of inclination of between about 0°-30° relative to horizontal, and a tummy time activity position wherein at least a portion of the child support assembly is oriented at an angle of inclination of between about 0°-−25° relative to horizontal.

4. The multi-position support system of claim 1, wherein the child support assembly comprises a support frame having defining an open portion, and a mesh support panel affixed to the support frame and at least partially covering the open portion of the support frame.

5. The multi-position support system of claim 4, wherein the mesh support panel comprises a multi-layer assembly having lower layer defining a network of larger mesh openings and an upper layer defining a network of smaller mesh openings.

6. The multi-position support system of claim 5, wherein the lower layer of the multi-layer mesh support panel comprises a molded polymeric elastomer, and wherein the upper layer of the multi-layer mesh support panel comprises a synthetic mesh fabric.

7. The multi-position support system of claim 1, wherein the base comprises an arcuate curved rocker base.

8. The multi-position support system of claim 1, wherein the positional adjustment mechanism comprises at least one pivotal coupling between the base and the child support assembly.

9. The multi-position support system of claim 8, wherein the positional adjustment mechanism further comprises at least one translational coupling between the base and the child support assembly.

10. The multi-position support system of claim 1, wherein the child support assembly comprises a first support panel pivotally coupled to a second support panel.

11. The multi-position support system of claim 10, wherein the first and second support panels are pivotally repositionable between a plurality of relative angular orientations, at least one of the plurality of relative angular orientations defining an obtuse angle between the first and second support panels, and another of the plurality of relative angular orientations defining a reflex angle between the first and second support panels.

12. The multi-position support system of claim 1, further comprising a toy bar, the toy bar being reconfigurable between a first configuration corresponding to a first activity position of the child support assembly and a second configuration corresponding to a second activity position of the child support assembly.

13. The multi-position support system of claim 1, further comprising a headrest portion repositionably coupled relative to the child support assembly.

14. The multi-position support system of claim 1, further comprising a footrest portion repositionably coupled relative to the child support assembly.

15. The multi-position support system of claim 1, further comprising a child restraint harness comprising a trilobed body defining first and second armholes through the trilobed body, and attachment means for securing the child restraint harness around a child with the child's arms extending through the first and second armholes.

16. The multi-position support system of claim 1, wherein the positional adjustment mechanism comprises at least one selectively inflatable support bolster.

17. A multi-position support system for supporting a child, the system comprising a base, a child support assembly supported by the base and comprising a breathable mesh support panel configured to receive and support a child thereon, and a positional adjustment mechanism allowing a user to selectively position the child support assembly in one of a plurality of activity positions.

18. The multi-position support system of claim 17, wherein the breathable mesh support panel comprises a multi-layer assembly having lower layer defining a network of larger mesh openings having an opening dimension of at least ¼″, and an upper layer defining a network of smaller mesh openings having an opening dimension of less than ¼″.

19. The multi-position support system of claim 18, wherein the lower layer of the multi-layer breathable mesh support panel comprises a molded polymeric elastomer, and wherein the upper layer of the multi-layer mesh support panel comprises a synthetic mesh fabric.

20. The multi-position support system of claim 17, wherein the plurality of activity positions comprise at least one inclined activity position and a generally horizontal activity position.

21. The multi-position support system of claim 17, wherein the plurality of activity positions comprise a first inclined activity position wherein at least a portion of the child support assembly is oriented at an angle of inclination of between about 60°-90° relative to horizontal, a second inclined activity position wherein at least a portion of the child support assembly is oriented at an angle of inclination of between about 30°-−60° relative to horizontal, a resting/sleep activity position wherein at least a portion of the child support assembly is oriented at an angle of inclination of between about 0°-30° relative to horizontal, and a tummy time activity position wherein at least a portion of the child support assembly is oriented at an angle of inclination of between about 0°-−25° relative to horizontal.

22. The multi-position support system of claim 17, wherein the base comprises an arcuate curved rocker base.

23. The multi-position support system of claim 17, wherein the positional adjustment mechanism comprises at least one pivotal coupling between the base and the child support assembly.

24. The multi-position support system of claim 23, wherein the positional adjustment mechanism further comprises at least one translational coupling between the base and the child support assembly.

25. The multi-position support system of claim 17, further comprising a toy bar, the toy bar being reconfigurable between a first configuration corresponding to a first activity position of the child support assembly and a second configuration corresponding to a second activity position of the child support assembly.

26. The multi-position support system of claim 17, further comprising a headrest portion repositionably coupled relative to the child support assembly.

27. The multi-position support system of claim 17, further comprising a footrest portion repositionably coupled relative to the child support assembly.

28. The multi-position support system of claim 17, further comprising a child restraint harness comprising a trilobed body defining first and second armholes through the trilobed body, and attachment means for securing the child restraint harness around a child with the child's arms extending through the first and second armholes.

29. The multi-position support system of claim 17, wherein the positional adjustment mechanism comprises at least one selectively inflatable support bolster.

30. A multi-position support system for supporting a child, the system comprising a base, a child support assembly supported by the base, and a positional adjustment mechanism allowing a user to selectively position the child support assembly in one of a plurality of activity positions, wherein the plurality of activity positions comprise a first inclined activity position wherein at least a portion of the child support assembly is oriented at an angle of inclination of between about 60°-90° relative to horizontal, a second inclined activity position wherein at least a portion of the child support assembly is oriented at an angle of inclination of between about 30°-60° relative to horizontal, a resting/sleep activity position wherein at least a portion of the child support assembly is oriented at an angle of inclination of between about 0°-30° relative to horizontal, and a tummy time activity position wherein at least a portion of the child support assembly is oriented at an angle of inclination of between about 0°-25° relative to horizontal.

31. The multi-position support system of claim 30, wherein the child support assembly comprises a support frame having defining an open portion, and a mesh support panel affixed to the support frame and at least partially covering the open portion of the support frame.

32. The multi-position support system of claim 31, wherein the mesh support panel comprises a multi-layer assembly having lower layer defining a network of larger mesh openings and an upper layer defining a network of smaller mesh openings.

33. The multi-position support system of claim 32, wherein the lower layer of the multi-layer mesh support panel comprises a molded polymeric elastomer, and wherein the upper layer of the multi-layer mesh support panel comprises a synthetic mesh fabric.

34. The multi-position support system of claim 30, wherein the base comprises an arcuate curved rocker base.

35. The multi-position support system of claim 30, wherein the positional adjustment mechanism comprises at least one pivotal coupling between the base and the child support assembly.

36. The multi-position support system of claim 35, wherein the positional adjustment mechanism further comprises at least one translational coupling between the base and the child support assembly.

37. The multi-position support system of claim 30, wherein the child support assembly comprises a first support panel pivotally coupled to a second support panel.

38. The multi-position support system of claim 37, wherein the first and second support panels are pivotally repositionable between a plurality of relative angular orientations, at least one of the plurality of relative angular orientations defining an obtuse angle between the first and second support panels, and another of the plurality of relative angular orientations defining a reflex angle between the first and second support panels.

39. The multi-position support system of claim 30, further comprising a toy bar, the toy bar being reconfigurable between a first configuration corresponding to a first activity position of the child support assembly and a second configuration corresponding to a second activity position of the child support assembly.

40. The multi-position support system of claim 30, further comprising a headrest portion repositionably coupled relative to the child support assembly.

41. The multi-position support system of claim 30, further comprising a footrest portion repositionably coupled relative to the child support assembly.

42. The multi-position support system of claim 30, further comprising a child restraint harness comprising a trilobed body defining first and second armholes through the trilobed body, and attachment means for securing the child restraint harness around a child with the child's arms extending through the first and second armholes.

43. The multi-position support system of claim 30, wherein the positional adjustment mechanism comprises at least one selectively inflatable support bolster.