Swing Patents (Class 472/118)
  • Patent number: 8616639
    Abstract: A multi-swing chair apparatus comprising a top frame member, one or more frame leg members, and one or more suspension assemblies is provided. The top frame member is, for example, a generally circular top frame member. The frame leg members are rigidly connected to and extend from the top frame member. Each of the frame leg members defines a space for suspending one or more swingable chairs from the top frame member. The suspension assemblies are pivotally attached to the top frame member. Each of the suspension assemblies connects to one of the swingable chairs for suspending each swingable chair from the top frame member. The suspension assemblies facilitate one or more of swinging movements and swivel movements of the swingable chairs. In an embodiment, the multi-swing chair apparatus further comprises support members extending upwardly from the top frame member for supporting a canopy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Inventor: Joseph J. Britz, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8591348
    Abstract: A stand-on swing for suspension from a playset structure includes a platform member presenting an upper surface on which the user may stand. The swing also includes a pair of elongated, rigid suspension bars each presenting upper and lower ends. The bars are pivotally connectable to the structure adjacent the upper ends so as to depend therefrom, with the lower ends being spaced from the ground. The swing further includes a pair of lower pivot joints pivotally connecting the suspension bars to the platform member adjacent the lower ends thereof, with the platform member and bars being swingable in a fore-and-aft direction. The bars are bowed so as to present intermediate sections that are spaced further apart than the upper and lower ends. Further, the bars terminate above or generally at the platform member so that the lower ends are prevented from being spaced substantially downward beyond the platform member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Backyard Leisure Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick W. Brown, John R. Nottingham, John W. Spirk, Robert F. Soreo, Randall Lee Day, Daniel Ray Whyman
  • Patent number: 8579772
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus for providing multi-directional training of the body of a user is disclosed. The exercise apparatus allows the a user to exercise the mid-section, hips, legs, ankles and connective tissues joining all the muscles in these areas. the apparatus comprises a support structure, two elongate foot platforms and hanging members for attaching the foot platforms to the support in such a manner that they can move in a substantially horizontal X-Y plane with two degrees of freedom. The foot platforms can be hung so that they are either arranged in parallel or have one of their ends closer together than their opposite ends. At least one substantially horizontal connecting member may be provided to interconnect the two foot platforms, either in front, in the middle or in the rear. The support structure is designed to be free standing or to be mounted onto other supporting structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: BVP Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert A. Piane
  • Patent number: 8574088
    Abstract: A swing includes an annular track that carries a pair of moveable trolleys. Suspended from the trolleys by flexible suspension members is a support member, such as a swing seat. The support member may be moved to any desired position by moving the trolleys about the track, whereupon the trolleys may be locked in position. Once locked in the desired position, a user seated upon the support member is able to swing back and forth via the flexible suspension members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventor: C. Scott Burriss
  • Publication number: 20130260905
    Abstract: A recreational amusement stand-up swing apparatus consisting of a singular bracing means anchored to a stationary overhead object. A coupling link element for said bracing means to attach thereto comprising a swivel mechanism for unrestricted spinning rotation. An extension spring providing vertical bouncing means, comprising upper and lower connecting portions attached between said coupling link and a connecting agent centrally located on a line separator element. A line element comprising right and left arm portions equidistantly extending through said line separator and further comprising stopping agents thereon. Said right and left arm portions respectively attaching to right and left supporting bands located atop a rigid platform element and further providing space for a user's feet to be insertably placed therebetween. Said right and left arm portions furthermore including line tightener elements thereon for the purpose of adjusting the height of the apparatus relative to the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventor: DAVID J. MATT
  • Publication number: 20130244802
    Abstract: A child swing has a frame with a base, a support extending up from the base, a hub carried by the support above the base, and a seat assembly having a swing arm with a seat carried at a lower end. The seat assembly moves in a swinging direction. The seat assembly is configured to be selectively removable from and connectable to the hub. The orientation of the seat assembly relative to the swinging direction is also selectively adjustable between a forward facing orientation and a side facing orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: Graco Children's Products Inc.
    Inventors: Chad Robbins, Brandon Seth Cross
  • Publication number: 20130225304
    Abstract: A play set with a mist device which includes a mist frame unit supported through a framework of the play set. The mist frame unit has a hollow body allowing water passage and comprises a flexible hose member mounted onto the framework, wherein a portion of the flexible hose member is constructed into a hose ring encircling a slide unit; a water inlet provided at a first end of the mist frame unit for connecting to a water source; and a plurality of mist producing units provided along the mist frame unit arranged for producing mist such that a preset mist surrounding area is defined within which the play set is located, therefore the mist can reach all play units of the play set, including the slide unit through the hose ring at an angle which is greater than 270°, thereby providing a cooling effect to the mist surrounding area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Inventor: Paul Hsieh
  • Patent number: 8491051
    Abstract: A canopy adjusting mechanism comprises a base including a coupling fixture and a holder plate, and a rotary part fixedly joined with the canopy and pivotally coupled with the holder plate for defining a rotation axis of the canopy. The coupling fixture is adapted to affix on a support frame, and the holder plate is adapted to detachably assemble with the coupling fixture. One of the holder plate and the rotary part comprises at least a first and second latching groove, and the other one of the holder plate and the rotary part has a detent operable to engage with either of the first and second latching groove for holding the canopy respectively at a first and second angular position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: BP Children's Products HK Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Da Liang Zhang
  • Patent number: 8491401
    Abstract: An infant support structure includes a frame, a seat portion rotatably coupled to the frame so that the seat portion is movably coupled to the frame, an engagement member coupled to the seat portion, and a lock bar pivotally coupled to the lower portion of the frame, the lock bar movable between a first position disengaged from the engagement member thereby permitting swinging motion of the seat portion, and a second position engaging the engagement member and inhibiting swinging motion of the seat portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew Alan Szymanski
  • Patent number: 8469832
    Abstract: A swing apparatus comprises a support frame, a plurality of swing arms pivotally connected with the support frame, a mount platform connected with the swing arms, wherein the swing arms are operable to swing the mount platform relative to the support frame, and a portable infant holding device adapted to removably fasten with the mount platform. Once it is installed on the mount platform, the infant holding device can be positioned above the support frame and swing arms, in particular above the pivot links that connect the swing arms with the support frame. As a result, the swing apparatus can be used in a more versatile manner, and access to the infant holding device can be facilitated for placement and removal of the infant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Wonderland Nurserygoods Company Limited
    Inventors: Sharon A Gillett, Schantal M. Kane, Ryan N. Miller, Peter R. Tuckey
  • Publication number: 20130157770
    Abstract: An infant swing apparatus includes a support structure, a swinging platform pivotally assembled with the support structure, a plurality of seat anchors affixed with the swinging platform, and a child seat removably held with the swinging platform. The swinging platform is pivotally assembled with the support structure and has a central axis extending from a rear to a front of the swinging platform, the swinging platform being operable to swing back and forth between the rear and the front. The seat anchors include a first and a second seat anchor disposed substantially aligned with the central axis of the swinging platform, and a third seat anchor located at a side of the central axis and in a region between the first and second seat anchors. The child seat can be removably held with the swinging platform by engaging with at least two ones of the first to third seat anchors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2012
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Applicant: Wonderland Nurserygoods Company Limited
    Inventor: Wonderland Nurserygoods Company Limited
  • Publication number: 20130143681
    Abstract: A convertible support apparatus and related methods are disclosed. An example convertible support apparatus for supporting a seat in a first mode and a second mode includes a substantially flexible section to support the seat in a first mode, and a substantially rigid bypass. The substantially rigid bypass is positioned to selectively deactivate the substantially flexible section when the convertible support is in the second mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2012
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Inventors: Peter J. Myers, Joseph P. Sejnowski, Jeff Yaschur, Bill Mussig, Dan Nelsen, Traci J. Barron, Carl G. Ross
  • Patent number: 8454450
    Abstract: A swing includes a body including a concave central portion defining a recessed seat and a peripheral edge surrounding the concave central portion. The peripheral edge includes a plurality of tether openings, and each of the tether openings is adapted to receive a tether. The peripheral edge of the body is circular such that the body defines a circular disk. The seat includes a drain opening defined therein. The body can be defined as a one-piece molded polymeric construction or from multiple body sections. In another embodiment, the concave central portion defining the recessed seat comprises a flexible material connected to the peripheral edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Quality Innovative Products, LLC
    Inventor: Gregory Cordray
  • Patent number: 8439765
    Abstract: Child entertainment apparatus and methods of operating the same are disclosed. An example method of operating a child entertainment apparatus includes suspending a seat from a frame and driving the seat for swinging movement by reciprocating an arm slidably coupled to the seat where the seat is free to slide along the arm when the seat swings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Kolcraft Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Traci Barron, Ross Carl, Paul J. Corsi, Douglas Melville, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8430711
    Abstract: An infant play gym including a mat, a first arched structure extending over the mat, a second arched structure extending over the mat, and a motion module. The motion module includes a housing couplable to both the first arched structure and the second arched structure, a power source, and a motor positioned within the housing and powered by the power source, the motor operable to cause the first and second arched structures to move with respect to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Learning Curve Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen Paul Chininis, Melvin Ray Kennedy, Jose Longoria
  • Patent number: 8419559
    Abstract: An infant swing includes a carrier, a first foot, at least one arm, a second foot, a pivotal positioning mechanism, a driving device, and a power supply device. The arm is connected to the first foot and the carrier. A second pivot base of the second foot is pivotally connected to a first pivot base of the first foot. The second foot is used for supporting the carrier above a supporting surface cooperatively with the first foot and the arm. The pivotal positioning mechanism is disposed between the first pivot base and the second pivot base. The pivotal positioning mechanism is used for constraining rotation of the second foot. The driving device is used for driving the arm. The power supply device is used for providing electric power to the driving device so as to make the carrier capable of swinging relative to the first foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Wonderland Nurserygoods Company Limited
    Inventor: Xiao-Jian Zhang
  • Patent number: 8414407
    Abstract: Swingbuddies are a device with a fastening mechanism for placement around swing chains. The preferred embodiments of the invention consist of a fabric panel with padding inside, a character head attached to the top of the fabric panel with two tie ribbons attached to the character head. The fabric panel's fastening mechanism is six male and six female snaps located on the back of the panel and spaced evenly down the length of the panel. The fabric panel also consists of two character arms on the front of the panel and two character feet on the bottom of the panel. To use the preferred embodiments of the invention, a person will simply tie the two tie ribbons to a link on a swing chain; fasten the male to the female snaps to enclose the swing chain. The device is now in place for a child to sit on the swing and hold. Since the device is made to be used in pairs, a child using this device will have one swing chain cover in each hand while swinging on a swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventor: Sherry Jean Roethig
  • Publication number: 20130085004
    Abstract: A mobile bike swing comprising a base and a first arm pivotally connected to the base. The mobile bike swing also comprises a second arm parallel to the first arm and having a predetermined distance therebetween. The second arm being pivotally connected to the base. The mobile bike swing also comprises a top bracket arranged between the first arm and second arm and a hook arranged generally a center point of the top bracket. The mobile bike swing also comprises a swing connected to the hook wherein the swing allows the bike rider to ride and swing both perpendicular and parallel to the base on which the mobile bike swing is connected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Applicant: Rise Above Products, LLC
    Inventor: Rise Above Products, LLC
  • Publication number: 20130079168
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a substantially vertical elongated mast and a substantially horizontal elongated boom which is supported by the mast proximate an upper end thereof. The boom can pivot independently about a substantially vertical first axis and a substantially horizontal second axis. The boom has a first end proximate the mast and a distal opposite second end. A gripping element, for gripping by a user of the apparatus while the user is supported thereby, depends from the boom proximate the second end thereof. An elastic biasing member operatively attached to the mast and the boom provides a biasing force to bias the boom toward a rest position and against downward movement of the second end of the mast. The biasing member allows a temporary downward movement of the second end of the boom due to sudden application of weight of a user's body when the user grasps the gripping element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Inventors: Jake M. Peters, Michael K. Peters
  • Publication number: 20130045813
    Abstract: A play swing system includes a safety harness attached to each seat, as well as other features for interactive and competitive throwing and tossing games. The safety harness may incorporates various games features, and thus encourage use in activities that require at least one free hand, or otherwise increase the risk of slippage and falling from the play swing seat. Various embodiments accommodate as well as challenge the spatial perception, dexterity and reflexes of players of different ages. For examples, younger players might compete by throwing objects at a fixed target mounted on the ground. In other embodiments, the target is moving in synchronization with the oscillatory motion of the adjacent players swing by a physical coupling or attachment. Interactive play is encouraged at the higher skill levels by configuring the targets associated with adjacent seats to face each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventors: MARK W. PUBLICOVER, JACOB M. PUBLICOVER, RACHEL C. PUBLICOVER
  • Patent number: 8376461
    Abstract: A child seat includes a main support frame, a swing frame connected pivotally to the main support frame, a seat frame connected to the swing frame and convertible between a high chair configuration and a swing configuration, a first locking mechanism including a latch disposed movably between the swing frame and the main support frame and engaged releasably with the main support frame, and a second locking mechanism including a protrusion provided on the swing frame and movable between a first position, where movement of the latch is prevented, and a second position, where movement of the latch is permitted so that the latch can move away from the main support frame, thereby converting the seat frame to the swing configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Wonderland Nurserygoods Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shun-Min Chen
  • Patent number: 8376294
    Abstract: A swivel assembly for a tire comprises a clamp assembly adapted to be secured to a header tube, a swivel first member suspended from the clamp to pivot either parallel to or perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the header tube, a swivel second member which is suspended from the swivel first member to pivot 90° relative to the pivotal motion of the swivel first member, and a swivel third member which can rotate about the swivel second member. The swivel first member is pivotally mounted to the clamp via an upper pivot pin and the second swivel member is pivotally mounted to the swivel first member by a second lower pivot pin. Lastly, the swivel assembly can include a tether which extends over the header tube to which the clamp assembly is secured which has opposite ends secured to opposite sides of the lower pivot pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Miracle Recreation Equipment Company
    Inventors: J. Stephen Steury, Steven B. Adkins
  • Patent number: 8357054
    Abstract: A child entertainment apparatus is convertible between a swing mode and a jumper mode. An example apparatus includes a frame, and a seat. The seat is coupled to the frame by a substantially rigid support when the apparatus is in the swing mode, and the seat is coupled to the frame through a substantially flexible support when the apparatus is in the jumper mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Kolcraft Enterprises
    Inventors: Peter J. Myers, Joseph P. Sejnowski, Jeff Yaschur, Bill Mussig, Dan Nelsen, Traci J. Barron, Ross G. Carl
  • Publication number: 20130012329
    Abstract: A collapsible, portable infant swing having a foldable base movable between an unfolded, extended position and a folded, collapsed position, a lock mechanism for selectively locking/unlocking the foldable base, and support arms supported by the foldable base. Swing arms are pivotally coupled to the support arms for pivotal, back and forth motion and an infant support seat coupled to the swing arms for supporting and swinging an infant. A multi-function handle is provided for housing the lock mechanism for locking/unlocking the foldable base, for grasping the foldable base to fold the foldable base, and for carrying the swing when the foldable base is folded. The multi-function handle is positioned substantially centrally below the seat to make it generally inaccessible by the infant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2012
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Inventors: Stephen BURNS, Alex SORIANO, John Mattew THOMSON
  • Publication number: 20130005493
    Abstract: Provided is a swing ride that enable a rider to sit on a swing chair and tilt it back and forth to thereby perform a swing operation or a reciprocating motion alone by a mechanical design. The swing ride that can tilt a swing chair back and forth, includes: a pivot shaft that is pivotably coupled across the top of a pair of frames spaced from each other; perpendicular rods that are extended downwards from both sides of the pivot shaft, respectively; a swing chair that are pivotably mounted below the perpendicular rods; mounting plates that are further extended downwards from central portions of both sides of the swing chair, respectively, and on the lower ends of which the perpendicular rods are hinge-coupled, respectively; and a rear stopper and a front stopper that are protrudingly formed spaced from each other at each side of the swing chair, to thus make the swing chair stop by the perpendicular rods and to thereby make the swing chair swing back and forth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2010
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventor: Nak Sung Kim
  • Patent number: 8313390
    Abstract: An infant swing includes a holding frame, a hanger, and a supporting frame. The holding frame is used for holding a baby. The hanger is pivotally connected to the holding frame. The supporting frame is connected to an upper end of the hanger and extends along the contour of the holding frame from a side of the holding frame to another side, so that the supporting frame can support the holding frame on a holding surface cooperatively with the hanger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: BP Children's Products HK Co., Limited
    Inventor: Mulin Lu
  • Publication number: 20120264530
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a repositioning mechanism adapted for use with a swing and configured to permit a child support to be secured a forward-facing position and one or more side-facing positions. In particular, the repositioning mechanism is configured to maintain the child support's center of gravity in the same lateral position in both the forward-facing and side-facing positions, as well as to effect longitudinal movement ensuring the child support remains longitudinally proximate to its point or points of support, such as a point of rotation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Inventor: David Gilbert
  • Patent number: 8282498
    Abstract: A play swing system includes a safety harness attached to each seat, as well as other features for interactive and competitive throwing and tossing games. The safety harness may incorporates various games features, and thus encourage use in activities that require at least one free hand, or otherwise increase the risk of slippage and falling from the play swing seat. Various embodiments accommodate as well as challenge the spatial perception, dexterity and reflexes of players of different ages. For examples, younger players might compete by throwing objects at a fixed target mounted on the ground. In other embodiments, the target is moving in synchronization with the oscillatory motion of the adjacent players swing by a physical coupling or attachment. Interactive play is encouraged at the higher skill levels by configuring the targets associated with adjacent seats to face each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Inventors: Mark W. Publicover, Jacob M. Publicover, Rachel C. Publicover
  • Publication number: 20120235450
    Abstract: An infant seat comprising an upper torso support, a lower torso support pivotally articulated to the upper torso support and a seat supporting structure; at least one of the upper torso support or the lower torso support is pivotally articulated to the seat supporting structure, the seat further comprising a converting mechanism for converting the seat between at least an angular position in which the upper torso support is inclined with respect to the lower torso support, and a planar position in which the upper torso support and the lower torso support are substantially co-planar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: TINY LOVE LTD.
    Inventors: Shoshana OREN, Hagai HARDUFF, Amit AVIGDOR, Giora SHACHAL
  • Patent number: 8235338
    Abstract: A swing set assembly having a swing set connector connected to a top rail is preferably provided which has a first cantilevered arm which connects to a top rail of at least two outer perimeters. Top rails are envisioned either fitting over the arm or in a bore the arm depending upon the outer perimeter of the top rail utilized. These and other embodiments are envisioned being of modular construction of a first half and a second half whether at an end of or between top rails. On the event that modification of the swing set is desired, an end half can be removed from a first half, and a top rail half connected thereto along with another top rail to extend the length of the total swing set. Alternatively, if a total top rail length is to be shortened, a top rail can be removed and a first half of the connector can be replaced with an end half.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: PlayCore
    Inventor: Brian Henry
  • Publication number: 20120178544
    Abstract: A baby swing includes a frame, a supporting device and a seat. The supporting device is pivotally connected to the frame. The supporting device has a pivot post and a plurality of first engaging members formed on a periphery of the pivot post. The seat has a mounting structure pivotally mounted on the pivot post and a second engaging member disposed in the mounting structure and capable of moving between an engaging position and a releasing position. When the second engaging member is located at the engaging position, the second engaging member engages one of the first engaging members so that the seat is retained relative to the supporting device. When the second engaging member is located at the releasing position, the second engaging member disengages from the first engaging member so that the seat is allowed to rotate relative to the supporting device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2012
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Inventors: Andrew J. Horst, Nathanael Saint
  • Publication number: 20120178543
    Abstract: A swing device capable of rotational and back and forth swinging motion. A single individual may enjoy the device, but the device is capable of accommodating multiple riders at one time. The swing device hangs from a support structure, such as a tree limb. An upper support system, comprised of sheathed connectors, fasten around the tree limb. At the base of the upper support system is a swivel joint that connects to the lower support system. The lower support system is comprised of support connectors, connector clamps and a disc swing seat. Each support connector has a clamp at its end for attaching the connector to the outer ring of the disc swing seat. The seat comprises an outer ring that is covered with highly durable, breathable material that can accommodate several individual users thereon. The breathable material keeps the swing seat cool, even after prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2012
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Inventor: Mary Monachello
  • Patent number: 8182356
    Abstract: A portable therapeutic vestibular swing device comprising a rigid component frame having a seat pivotally suspended therefrom, support members depending downwardly with each support member having a foot distal from a horizontal shaft adapted, each foot adapted for insertion in an individual one of a plurality of pocket means of a flexible load-bearing base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Inventors: Jason B. Hylton, Charles Hylton
  • Patent number: 8152647
    Abstract: An infant swing has a base member supported by hanger members for reciprocal movement. A seat that can be utilized in other applications is detachably mounted on and latched to the base member, which is formed with a swivel mechanism that allows the seat to be selectively positioned in a back-and-forth swing configuration or a sideways swing configuration. The swivel mechanism utilizes a triangular guide that engages an elliptical retainer to cause a lateral shift in the center of gravity of the seat when re-positioned. The base member also incorporates a recline mechanism that can be actuated with one hand. The recline actuation mechanism uses a self-centering push bar that is formed with protrusions engaged with slotted channels to lock the seat in a selected recline position. The push bar is operable to either transverse direction to release the protrusions from the slotted channels for selecting the new recline position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Wonderland Nurserygoods Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Peter R. Tuckey, Curtis M. Hartenstine, Sharon A. Gillett
  • Publication number: 20120083348
    Abstract: Playground device, for example a swing or a see saw, having a ground supported, movable part and at least one motion sensor configured for sensing the motion of the movable part. The motion sensor is functionally connected to a sound signal feedback generator that is configured for converting the signals from the motion sensor into a sound feedback in response to the motion of the movable part. The sensors are mechanically connected only to the movable part in order to provide system with a large number of variations of embodiments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Inventors: Peder Burgaard, Henrik Sommer Poulsen, Mette Keller Stubkjær, Jonas Gam Nielsen, Tina Rosholm Olesen
  • Patent number: 8147345
    Abstract: A baby seat sling suspends a baby seat from a structure. A lower strap harness extends around the rear surface of the baby seat. A lower strap suspension point extends above the seating surface of the baby seat. The lower strap suspension point comprises a junction of ends of the lower strap harness. An upper strap suspension strap is attached to the lower strap suspension point and to the structure located above the baby seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Inventor: Mark Furman
  • Patent number: 8118684
    Abstract: An infant support structure with a collapsible frame is disclosed. In one embodiment, the infant support structure includes a frame with a lock mechanism that is configured to maintain the collapsible frame in a deployed or use configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Kelly, Maarten Van Huystee
  • Publication number: 20120034985
    Abstract: An adjustable canopy mechanism is for use in an infant carrier device having a frame unit, and includes a top cover and a pair of pivot seat units. Each pivot seat unit includes first and second pivot seats. The first pivot seat is coupled to one of the top cover and the frame unit, and has a first central pivot portion and a plurality of engaging grooves. The second pivot seat is coupled to the other one of the top cover and the frame unit, and has a second central pivot portion connected pivotally to the first central pivot portion, and a plurality of resilient arms engaging removably and respectively a subset of the engaging grooves. The second pivot seat is rotatable relative to the first pivot seat so that the resilient arms engage respectively another subset of the engaging grooves, thereby adjusting the position of the top cover relative to the frame unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2011
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Applicant: BP CHILDREN'S PRODUCTS HK CO., LIMITED
    Inventor: Da-Liang Zhang
  • Patent number: 8083600
    Abstract: A swing seat assembly is provided for enhancing durability of the swing and increasing the safety of a person using the swing. The swing seat assembly includes an elongated seat element and a reinforcing member extending along the seat element. The reinforcing member is formed of a different material than the seat element and has a tensile strength that is greater than the tensile strength of the seat element. The assembly also includes a pair of rigid connecting elements configured to operably couple the seat element with suspending elements, where the connecting elements at least partially project from end margins of the seat element but do not extend inwardly beyond a top face of the seat element. A swing assembly is also provided that includes a reinforced swing seat with a reinforcing member extending therealong and being encased therein. The swing assembly includes a pair of suspending elements coupled to hooks projecting from end margins of the seat for suspending the seat from a playset frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Backyard Leisure Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Ernie D. Sheets, Julie A. Neusch
  • Publication number: 20110312430
    Abstract: An interactive apparatus includes a frame that defines an interior region. A swing is secured to the frame and moves into and out of the interior region. At least one fluid delivery system is secured to the frame for directing a plane of fluid into the interior region of the frame. The fluid delivery system includes a plurality of flow regulating elements for selectively controlling the cross-section of the fluid plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Inventors: Michael O'Toole, Andrew Ratcliff
  • Patent number: 8079915
    Abstract: A support member for playground equipment may include a first section with a flared end and a second section with a tapered end. An opening may be disposed in the flared end of the first section and an elongated slot may be disposed in the tapered end of the second section. When the tapered and flared ends are initially connected, the openings may be aligned and a fastener may be inserted into the aligned openings. When the tapered and flared ends are forced together and overlap a greater amount, which may create a more secure connection, the fastener may help keep in the first and second sections in alignment and may help prevent unintended rotational movement of the first and second sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Don Spencer, Jacob Kearl, Carl R. Stanford
  • Patent number: 8070617
    Abstract: Child entertainment apparatus and methods of operating the same are disclosed. An example child entertainment apparatus includes a frame and a support suspended for swinging movement relative to the frame. The support is elastically elongatable. A child seat is carried by the support and thus is able to swing and bounce relative to the frame. A drive arm extends between the frame and the seat and includes a first end journalled for rotation relative to one of the frame or the seat and a second end slidably coupled to the other of the frame or the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Kolcraft Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Traci Barron, Ross Carl, Paul J. Corsi, Douglas Melville, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8066577
    Abstract: Infant swing has a front leg frame and a rear leg frame pivoting to each other and connecting to a seat assembly via a driving module at the pivot between the front leg frame and the rear leg frame for swinging the seat back and forth. Two protection guards are mounted and connected between the front leg frame and the rear leg frame for preventing the toddler from being harmed when reaching his/her hands out between the frame and the seat as the toddler sits in the seat and swings relative to the frame. A battery assembly that provides power for the driving module is configured at the bottom of the frame for effectively lowering the center of gravity of the infant swing and providing higher stability. Skidproof foot assemblies mounting at the elbows of the front leg frame and the rear leg frame can further provide stability and integrity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Excellerate Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hong-Bo Chen, Chih-Wei Wang
  • Publication number: 20110275445
    Abstract: A swing apparatus is adapted to receive the installation of a variety of infant holding devices, such as portable infant seats and bassinets. The infant holding device can be desirably installed and removed from the swing apparatus. In certain embodiments, the support frame of the swing apparatus can be provided with a detector adapted to provide information about the installed infant holding device, in particular an identified type thereof. According to this information, the output of a motion drive unit that is operable to swing the infant holding device can be adjusted to set a suitable swing motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: Wonderland Nurserygoods Company Limited
    Inventors: Peter TUCKEY, William DRESCHEL
  • Patent number: 8047925
    Abstract: Playground device, for example a swing or a see saw, having a ground supported, movable part and at least one motion sensor configured for sensing the motion of the movable part. The motion sensor is functionally connected to a sound signal feedback generator that is configured for converting the signals from the motion sensor into a sound feedback in response to the motion of the movable part. The sensors are mechanically connected only to the movable part in order to provide system with a large number of variations of embodiments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: PLAY IT SOUND ApS
    Inventors: Peder Burgaard, Henrik Sommer Poulsen, Mette Keller Stubkjær, Jonas Gam Nielsen, Tina Rosholm Olesen
  • Publication number: 20110263344
    Abstract: A stand-on swing for suspension from a playset structure includes a platform member presenting an upper surface on which the user may stand. The swing also includes a pair of elongated, rigid suspension bars each presenting upper and lower ends. The bars are pivotally connectable to the structure adjacent the upper ends so as to depend therefrom, with the lower ends being spaced from the ground. The swing further includes a pair of lower pivot joints pivotally connecting the suspension bars to the platform member adjacent the lower ends thereof, with the platform member and bars being swingable in a fore-and-aft direction. The bars are bowed so as to present intermediate sections that are spaced further apart than the upper and lower ends. Further, the bars terminate above or generally at the platform member so that the lower ends are prevented from being spaced substantially downward beyond the platform member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2011
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Applicant: BACKYARD LEISURE HOLDINGS, INC.
    Inventors: Patrick W. Brown, John R. Nottingham, John W. Spirk, Robert F. Soreo, Randall Lee Day, Daniel Ray Whyman
  • Patent number: 8033922
    Abstract: The manually pushed swing involves a vertical pole that is anchored into the ground via a concrete base, wherein a swing top mounts atop said pole and enables a plurality of swings seats and push handles to be connected thereon. The push handles enable a non-occupant to propel the plurality of swing seats around the pole via a bearing. The manually pushed swing is ideally suited for outdoor use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Inventor: Linda Marquez
  • Publication number: 20110244973
    Abstract: An accessory for a play system comprises a support configured to be suspended from or supported on the play system; and a sound module coupled with the support. The sound module comprises a motion detector for detecting motion of the support and a sound-emitting device for emitting sounds in response to motion of the support as detected by the motion detector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Applicant: BACKYARD LEISURE HOLDINGS, INC.
    Inventors: Patrick W. Brown, John R. Nottingham, John W. Spirk, Robert F. Soreo, Randall Lee Day, Daniel Ray Whyman
  • Publication number: 20110230271
    Abstract: An infant support structure includes a frame, a seat portion rotatably coupled to the frame so that the seat portion is movably coupled to the frame, an engagement member coupled to the seat portion, and a lock bar pivotally coupled to the lower portion of the frame, the lock bar movable between a first position disengaged from the engagement member thereby permitting swinging motion of the seat portion, and a second position engaging the engagement member and inhibiting swinging motion of the seat portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Applicant: MATTEL, INC.
    Inventor: Matthew Alan Szymanski
  • Publication number: 20110165952
    Abstract: A portable therapeutic vestibular swing device comprising a rigid component frame having a seat pivotally suspended therefrom, support members depending downwardly with each support member having a foot distal from a horizontal shaft adapted, each foot adapted for insertion in an individual one of a plurality of pocket means of a flexible load-bearing base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2010
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Inventors: Jason B. Hylton, Charles Hylton