Motor Operated Patents (Class 472/119)
  • Patent number: 11408188
    Abstract: An external platform that translates such that planking and structural members of the platform remain level and maintain a constant working surface area at the beginning, during, and end of the translation movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2022
    Assignee: PERI Formwork Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: David Magnusen, Mark D. Henning
  • Patent number: 10513285
    Abstract: The swing, stroller with a detachable car seat includes a baby car seat that is able to connect with a car seat dock located on a seat in a vehicle. The baby car seat is also able to connect with a baby stroller that can mobilize the baby car seat or can immobilize itself in order to provide a swinging function that swings the baby car seat back and forth with respect to the baby stroller. The baby stroller includes a ā€œUā€-shaped swinging member that attaches to and extends downward from a swing arm member provided on opposing sides of the baby stroller. The baby stroller includes telescoping feet that extend down beneath wheels provided on the baby stroller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2019
    Inventor: Empress M. Menen
  • Patent number: 10366625
    Abstract: A kinesthetic device that simulates flight includes a base unit and a swing unit. The base unit includes a base seat; whereas, the swing unit includes a swing seat, two swing support structures pivoted between the base seat and the swing seat, and a swing actuator used to control the swing positions of the two swing support structures. The two swing support structures are equal in length and parallel to each other. A fixed baseline is formed between two junction points between the two swing support structures and the base seat, a swing baseline is formed between two junction points between the two swing support structures and the swing seat, and the fixed baseline and the swing baseline are equal in length. The two swing support structures, the fixed baseline and the swing baseline form a parallelogram, allowing the swing support structures to swing stably the base seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2019
    Assignee: Brogent Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Wei-Ching Tang, Ke-Cheng Chien, Tien-Ni Cheng
  • Patent number: 10238341
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for autonomously soothing babies. An example method may include receiving a first sound input from a microphone, processing the first sound input, determining a baby status based at least in part on the first sound input, determining an output action based at least in part on the baby status; and implementing the output action at the children's apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2019
    Assignee: Graco Children's Products Inc.
    Inventors: Zachary Rubin, Bradley Keith Hondros, Mubeen Ahmad, William Andrew Steer, Justin Pinkney, Bart A. Smudde, Brian S. Kelly
  • Patent number: 10045635
    Abstract: A child motion apparatus includes a base frame assembly for providing standing support on a floor, a column assembled with the base frame assembly, a support arm extending generally horizontally relative to the column and having a first and a second end portion, a child seat connected with the second end portion of the support arm, a vertical actuating mechanism supported by the base frame assembly and operable to drive the column to slide upward and downward, and a horizontal actuating mechanism operable to drive the support arm to oscillate generally horizontally relative to the column. The first end portion of the support arm is assembled with the column and has a channel, and the horizontal actuating mechanism includes a driving part movable along a circular path and guided for sliding movement along the channel at the first end portion of the support arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2018
    Assignee: Wonderland Switzerland AG
    Inventors: Jonathan K. Mountz, William B. Bellows
  • Patent number: 9955799
    Abstract: A child motion device including a support frame, a frame hub coupled to the support frame, a gliding swing mechanism pivotally mounted to the frame hub, and a cantilevered child support portion pivotally mounted to the gliding swing mechanism. In example embodiments, the child support portion can be in the form of a child seat or a bassinet. In example embodiments, the child support portion can be oriented between multiple seat-facing orientations for providing either of a side-to-side gliding movement or a front-to-back gliding movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: KIDS II, INC.
    Inventors: Chaitanya Tadipatri, Stephen R. Burns, Jacob Sclare
  • Patent number: 9936818
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a children's motion device configured to oscillate a child support about a substantially upright axis of rotation. In various embodiments, the portion of the child support configured for supporting the head of a child positioned therein is configured to remain substantially aligned with the axis of rotation as the child support oscillates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: KIDS II, INC.
    Inventors: Jacob Sclare, John Matthew Thomson
  • Patent number: 9868069
    Abstract: A rotating playground device is presented. The rotating playground device comprises a frame configured to rotate, wherein rotation is initiated by a force applied to the frame. The rotating playground device also comprises a braking system configured to limit a speed at which the frame rotates. The rotating playground device is permanently mounted within a playground environment, wherein permanently mounted comprises a frame mounting point coupled to a ground point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2018
    Assignee: Landscape Structures Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas L. Keller
  • Patent number: 9861210
    Abstract: A child motion device including a support frame, a frame hub coupled to the support frame, a gliding swing mechanism pivotally mounted to the frame hub, and a cantilevered child support portion pivotally mounted to the gliding swing mechanism. In example embodiments, the child support portion can be in the form of a child seat or a bassinet. In example embodiments, the child support portion can be oriented between multiple seat-facing orientations for providing either of a side-to-side gliding movement or a front-to-back gliding movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Assignee: KIDS II, INC.
    Inventors: Chaitanya Tadipatri, Stephen Burns, Jacob Sclare
  • Patent number: 9839293
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a rolling-and-swinging device and a massage chair. The rolling-and-swinging device comprises a gear motor, a motor mounting plate, a torque output board, a swing arm, a swing arm synchronizer ring, a damping ring, an optical shutter rotating ring, a swinging monitoring controller, a microcomputer controller, a shaft supporting plate, a frame and curved legs. The massage chair is for commercial sale, wherein the massage chair is equipped with aforementioned rolling-and-swinging device and two curved legs in contact with the ground, and the operation of the rolling and swinging motion of the massage chair is automatic. This invention is characterized by having a simple structure, and being able to operate reliably, low in energy consumption, quiet, and widely applicable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2017
    Inventor: Bingshun Qiu
  • Patent number: 9332847
    Abstract: A powered rocker system assemble is disclosed that includes a motorized rocking mechanism with a rotational motor drive and to an automatic transmission assemble configured to automatically force the balance the rotational motion cycle with the newly balanced position of the occupied chair before switching from manual to powered rocking and a device referred to as a powered pawl controller which is configured to allow the rocking chair to rock while in the recline position with the leg rest extended.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Inventor: Arthur Oscar McLellen
  • Patent number: 9033809
    Abstract: A child swing apparatus can include a support frame, a seat support for receiving the placement of a child, a swing arm assembled with the support frame about a pivot axis, the swing arm holding the seat support, a driven part arranged radially spaced apart from the pivot axis and movable with the seat support and the swing arm relative to the support frame, and a drive mechanism assembled with the support frame, wherein the drive mechanism has a driving end operable to apply a torque on the driven part to cause swing motion of the seat support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: Wonderland Nurserygoods Company Limited
    Inventors: Robert E. Haut, Nathaneal Saint, Peter R. Tuckey, Jonathan K. Mountz
  • Patent number: 9011260
    Abstract: A device and a method for automatic swing control are disclosed. The device and method are used for the automatic swing control of an overhang. The device for automatic swing control comprises an actuator and a movable block. The movable block comprises a hanger and an angle sensing device. The hanger is pivotably mounted on the lower end of the movable block and is used to suspend the overhang. The angle sensing device is electrically connected to the actuator, and used to sense the movement parameters of the hanger, and starts the selective rotation of the actuator when the swing angle is less than a preset value, so that when the hanger is at its predicted highest swing position, the movable block moves toward the direction where the hanger is about to move after the hanger passes its actual highest swing position to drag the overhang to swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Inventor: Cheng-Ming Chen
  • Patent number: 8979662
    Abstract: A powered swing device is provided that imparts a swinging motion onto the chains of a child's swing set. The device comprises an upper cross member and a pair of rotatable swing arm members extending downward therefrom along the ends of the cross member. The ends of the cross member secure to the swing chain by way of outward post members that fit through opposing open chain links of the swing chain. Each of the swing arm members include a lower outward post member to attach through a chain link below the cross member. An internal electric motor drives the swing arm members in a reciprocal motion, while the upper and lower post members impart the motion onto the swing chain. The speed of the swing arms is controllable, while a radio is provided for further entertainment purposes. Overall, the device allows for swinging a child without adult assistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Inventors: Griselda Rogers, Louis Rogers
  • Patent number: 8944927
    Abstract: A child's swing support structure includes a seat assembly having a first configuration and a second configuration. The seat of the swing support structure is able to be configured in a reclined configuration for infants or an upright configuration for toddlers. The seat can be locked into the upright configuration when a tray is connected to the seat of the swing support structure. The seat is rotatably coupled to a frame of the swing support structure, where the swing is free to swing back and forth with respect to the frame. Furthermore, a drive mechanism may be attached to the frame for mechanically swinging the seat back and forth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Kurt J. Huntsberger, Kevin Crane, Philip R. Pyrce
  • Patent number: 8932143
    Abstract: A control system for a child swing that comprises an amplitude control subsystem configured to use one or more electrical signals from a swing sensor to compare an actual amplitude of the child swing to a pre-set amplitude of the child swing to generate an adjustment signal representing a desired adjustment to the phase of the drive mechanism. The child swing also comprises a phase control subsystem configured to use an electrical signal representative of a phase of the drive mechanism and the adjustment signal to generate a motor drive signal configured to cause the desired adjustment to the phase of the drive mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Philip R. Pyrce, James P. Meade, Mark Alan Wollen, James Paul Baker, James A. Bishop, Jr., Ross Allan Niver
  • Patent number: 8900063
    Abstract: A baby swing includes a pair of frames, a pair of connecting members, a pair of rotating members, a pair of booms, and a seat. The frames are interconnected by the connecting members. The rotating members are connected respectively and pivotally to the connecting members. Each of the booms has two ends connected respectively to a corresponding one of the rotating members and the seat. One of the two ends of each of the booms is connected pivotally to a corresponding one of the corresponding one of the rotating members and the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Wonderland Nurseygoods Company Limited
    Inventor: Maohao Lin
  • Patent number: 8876617
    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: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Graco Children's Products Inc.
    Inventors: Chad Robbins, Brandon Seth Cross
  • Publication number: 20140323234
    Abstract: A novel and improved device to assuage distressed infants by means of adjustable vertical motion combined with adjustable orientation. The motion is adjustable in terms of amplitude, frequency and time. The device allows the infants to be held face-inward or face-outward in the case of vertical orientation and prone or supine in the case of horizontal orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2014
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventor: Richard Shane
  • Publication number: 20140315650
    Abstract: An infant swing includes a base, a support coupled to the base, an arm coupled to and movable relative to the support, and a seat portion coupled to the arm. A drive system is coupled to the arm and moves the arm relative to the base. An actuator is connected to the drive system, and is located so that a user can engage the actuator with the user's foot to control the drive system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicant: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Philip Pyrce, Maarten Van Huystee, Jeffrey W. Luchterhand
  • Patent number: 8845440
    Abstract: An infant care apparatus includes a base, a reciprocating vertical motion mechanism, a vertical motion driving module, a reciprocating pendulum motion mechanism, and a pendulum motion driving module. The vertical motion driving module is kinematically connected to the reciprocating vertical motion mechanism so as to vertically move the reciprocating vertical motion mechanism in reciprocating vertical motion with respect to the base. The pendulum motion driving module is kinematically connected to the reciprocating pendulum motion mechanism so as to pendulum move the reciprocating pendulum motion mechanism in reciprocating pendulum motion with respect to the reciprocating vertical motion mechanism. An interaction between a reciprocating vertical motion of the reciprocating vertical motion mechanism and a reciprocating pendulum motion of the reciprocating pendulum motion mechanism forms a specific motion path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Wonderland Nurserygoods Company Limited
    Inventor: Robert E. Haut
  • Patent number: 8834282
    Abstract: A motion device that provides a soothing motion for a child seated within the device to replicate a parent or caregiver cradling and/or swaying the child. Embodiments include a base frame configured to rest on a support surface, a support frame coupled to and extending upward from the base frame, and a seat assembly which is pivotably coupled to the support frame. The seat assembly moves in an oscillating motion about the pivot axis, which is selectively propelled by a drive mechanism or motor. The drive mechanism or motor is coupled to and/or is integral to the assembly and its speed and motion is controlled electronically. The pivot axis about which the seat assembly rotates is preferably configured to be at least slightly offset from the vertical axis, such that the seat assembly will ā€œself-centerā€ when at rest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Kids II, Inc.
    Inventors: Jacob Sclare, Alex Soriano, Joseph W. Staley
  • Patent number: 8821303
    Abstract: A double occupancy swing provides for two (2) infant seats arranged in a side-by-side configuration. The seats are attached to a swing mechanism and comprise features allowing each seat to be reclined or rotated side-to-side allowing the infants to face each other. The top portion of the infant swing is provided with means to hold an electronic device which provides visual and/or audio effects such as nursery rhymes, pictures, and music to help keep the child entertained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Inventor: Silomie A. Clarke
  • Publication number: 20140221112
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a powered children's swing. In various embodiments, the swing includes a seat, swing frame, one or more swing arms, a first magnetic component, second magnetic component, swing motion sensor, and swing control circuit. The magnetic components are configured to generate a magnetic force that drives the seat along a swing path. The swing control circuit is configured to control the magnetic components based at least on input from the swing motion sensor and generate control signals causing the seat to swing with substantially constant amplitude as specified by a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: Kids II, Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Gilbert, Stephen R. Burns, Peter D. Jackson, Charles Simons, Chen Jing Ru
  • Patent number: 8795097
    Abstract: An infant support structure includes a seat assembly having a handle extending upwardly from a receiving area. The handle includes an engagement member. A support frame includes a lower portion configured for engaging a supporting surface and an upper portion. A mounting portion is coupled to the upper portion of the frame. The engagement member is removably and pivotally coupleable to the mounting portion. A drive mechanism is coupled to the mounting portion, and includes a ram reciprocally movable relative to the mounting portion. The ram is engageable with the handle so that the seat assembly swings back and forth relative to the support frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Linda J. Chapman, Philip R. Pyrce
  • Patent number: 8784226
    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: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Wonderland Nuserygoods Company Limited
    Inventors: Tao Yang, Man Qun Cheng
  • Patent number: 8784227
    Abstract: Systems and related methods are delineated for moving a provided container suspended above ground from a support structure. One delineated system for moving a provided container suspended above ground from a support structure, the system comprises: a force generator coupled to the container; an elastic supporter having a first end and a second end; wherein: the first end of the elastic supporter is coupled to the support structure; the second end of the elastic supporter is coupled to force generator; and the force generator is configured to apply a periodic force to the container to cause oscillatory motion. The elastic supporter is configured in at least one of a ā€œUā€ shape, a semicircle shape, and a ā€œVā€ shape. Audio/Video monitoring and transmission may be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Alan Speedie
  • Patent number: 8777764
    Abstract: A motion apparatus for use in combination with a standard infant carrier, such as a car seat. The motion apparatus comprises a support structure and a frame for receiving the transportable base of an infant car seat, and a drive assembly, which, when activated causes motion of the infant carrier. Methods and devices of the invention are useful to soothe an infant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventor: Sarah B. Gregorian
  • Patent number: 8708832
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a powered children's swing. In various embodiments, the swing includes a seat, swing frame, one or more swing arms, a first magnetic component, second magnetic component, swing motion sensor, and swing control circuit. The magnetic components are configured to generate a magnetic force that drives the seat along a swing path. The swing control circuit is configured to control the magnetic components based at least on input from the swing motion sensor and generate control signals causing the seat to swing with a substantially constant amplitude as specified by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Kids II, Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Gilbert, Stephen R. Burns, Peter D. Jackson, Charles Simons, Chen Jing Ru
  • Patent number: 8702526
    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: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Kolcraft Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter J. Myers, Joseph P. Sejnowski, Jeff Yaschur, Bill Mussig, Dan Nelsen, Traci J. Barron, Ross G. Carl
  • Publication number: 20140106891
    Abstract: A control system for a child swing that comprises an amplitude control subsystem configured to use one or more electrical signals from a swing sensor to compare an actual amplitude of the child swing to a pre-set amplitude of the child swing to generate an adjustment signal representing a desired adjustment to the phase of the drive mechanism. The child swing also comprises a phase control subsystem configured to use an electrical signal representative of a phase of the drive mechanism and the adjustment signal to generate a motor drive signal configured to cause the desired adjustment to the phase of the drive mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: MATTEL, INC.
    Inventors: Philip R. PYRCE, James P. MEADE, Mark Alan WOLLEN, James Paul BAKER, James A. BISHOP, JR., Ross Allan NIVER
  • Patent number: 8684856
    Abstract: An infant swing includes a base, a support coupled to the base, an arm coupled to and movable relative to the support, and a seat portion coupled to the arm. A drive system is coupled to the arm and moves the arm relative to the base. An actuator is connected to the drive system, and is located so that a user can engage the actuator with the user's foot to control the drive system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Philip Pyrce, Maarten Van Huystee, Jeffrey W. Luchterhand
  • Patent number: 8678942
    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: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: BP Children's Products HK Co., Limited
    Inventor: Da-Liang Zhang
  • Publication number: 20140073443
    Abstract: A device and a method for automatic swing control are disclosed. The device and method are used for the automatic swing control of an overhang. The device for automatic swing control comprises an actuator and a movable block. The movable block comprises a hanger and an angle sensing device. The hanger is pivotably mounted on the lower end of the movable block and is used to suspend the overhang. The angle sensing device is electrically connected to the actuator, and used to sense the movement parameters of the hanger, and starts the selective rotation of the actuator when the swing angle is less than a preset value, so that when the hanger is at its predicted highest swing position, the movable block moves toward the direction where the hanger is about to move after the hanger passes its actual highest swing position to drag the overhang to swing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Inventor: Cheng-Ming Chen
  • Patent number: 8661582
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a children's motion device configured to oscillate a child support about a substantially upright axis of rotation. In various embodiments, the portion of the child support configured for supporting the head of a child positioned therein is configured to remain substantially aligned with the axis of rotation as the child support oscillates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Kids II, Inc.
    Inventors: Jacob Sclare, John Matthew Thomson
  • Patent number: 8636601
    Abstract: An infant carrier apparatus includes a support frame having a generally L-shape, a swing arm and a seat assembly. The swing arm includes an upper segment, a lower segment parallel to the upper segment, and an upright segment connected between the upper segment and the lower segment, wherein the upper segment is pivotally connected with an upper end of the support frame. The seat assembly is disposed in a region between the upper segment and the lower segment, and is connected with the lower segment of the swing arm. The infant carrier apparatus can also include an adjustment mechanism that allows to conveniently adjust the height of the seat assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Wonderland Nurserygoods Company Limited
    Inventors: Shaoyue Zhang, Man Qun Cheng
  • Publication number: 20140018179
    Abstract: A child motion apparatus includes an upright column defining a vertical axis, a carriage assembled with the upright column and including a swing shaft portion operable to rotate about a pivot axis, a swing arm affixed with the swing shaft portion, a first motor drive unit assembled with the carriage and having an output shaft, a drive transmission respectively connected with the output shaft and the swing shaft portion, a second motor drive unit assembled with the upright column, and an actuating mechanism respectively connected with the second motor drive unit and the carriage. The drive transmission can transfer an output drive provided by the first motor drive unit at the output shaft to the swing shaft portion to impart rotation to the driven swing arm. The actuating mechanism is drivable by the second motor drive unit to vertically move the carriage relative to the upright column.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2013
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: WONDERLAND NURSERYGOODS COMPANY LIMITED
    Inventors: Jonathan K. MOUNTZ, Robert E. HAUT, Nathanael SAINT, Peter R. TUCKEY
  • Patent number: 8608582
    Abstract: This Invention is provided with a pair of strut 120 vertically arranged by the base substrate, a pair of swing member 131, a motor 133, and an arm provided to a rotating shaft of the motor. A pair of swing member 131 is swingably connected to an upper part of the strut 120, a guidance shaft couples each one end neighborhood of the pair of struts. Also a motor 133 is attached to the upper part of the struts 120 similarly, the arm 134 provided to the motor 133 is connected to other end neighborhood of one of swing member 131 among the pair of swing members 131, And, if the rotating shaft of the motor rotates, the other end neighborhood connected with the arm 134 is eccentric rotated, causing swing of the pair of swing member 131.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: BLD Oriental Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasushi Ochi
  • Patent number: 8602904
    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: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Wonderland Nurserygoods Company Limited
    Inventors: Peter Tuckey, William Dreschel
  • Patent number: 8602903
    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: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Kids II, Inc.
    Inventor: David Gilbert
  • Publication number: 20130310187
    Abstract: A powered swing device is provided that imparts a swinging motion onto the chains of a child's swing set. The device comprises an upper cross member and a pair of rotatable swing arm members extending downward therefrom along the ends of the cross member. The ends of the cross member secure to the swing chain by way of outward post members that fit through opposing open chain links of the swing chain. Each of the swing arm members include a lower outward post member to attach through a chain link below the cross member. An internal electric motor drives the swing arm members in a reciprocal motion, while the upper and lower post members impart the motion onto the swing chain. The speed of the swing arms is controllable, while a radio is provided for further entertainment purposes. Overall, the device allows for swinging a child without adult assistance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Inventors: Griselda Rogers, Louis Rogers
  • Publication number: 20130288811
    Abstract: A child's swing support structure includes a seat assembly having a first configuration and a second configuration. The seat of the swing support structure is able to be configured in a reclined configuration for infants or an upright configuration for toddlers. The seat can be locked into the upright configuration when a tray is connected to the seat of the swing support structure. The seat is rotatably coupled to a frame of the swing support structure, where the swing is free to swing back and forth with respect to the frame. Furthermore, a drive mechanism may be attached to the frame for mechanically swinging the seat back and forth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2013
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventor: Mattel, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8550927
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for a rocker. In one embodiment, the rocker may be comprised of a fixed support structure; a resonant pendulum suspended from the fixed support structure, a seat or bed suspended on the pendulum; and a coil coupled to the pendulum and interacting with a magnetic field to supply force to the pendulum to maintain movement of the seat or bed. The rocker may also be comprised of a rechargeable battery that is used to power the coil and allow for the rocker to run continuously. The battery may be charged by the coil's interactions with the magnetic field or using at least one solar panel. The solar panel may also be used without a battery to provide energy to the rocker so that it may run continuously. The coil may be comprised of an electrically conducting wire (e.g., copper or aluminum wire).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Inventor: Bridget Hunter-Jones
  • Publication number: 20130244803
    Abstract: A child swing apparatus can include a support frame, a seat support for receiving the placement of a child, a swing arm assembled with the support frame about a pivot axis, the swing arm holding the seat support, a driven part arranged radially spaced apart from the pivot axis and movable with the seat support and the swing arm relative to the support frame, and a drive mechanism assembled with the support frame, wherein the drive mechanism has a driving end operable to apply a torque on the driven part to cause swing motion of the seat support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Inventors: Robert E. HAUT, Nathaneal SAINT, Peter R. TUCKEY, Jonathan K. MOUNTZ
  • Patent number: 8517849
    Abstract: An infant swing apparatus comprises a first pivot shaft coupled with a swing arm, a motorized drive unit configured to drive rotation of the first pivot shaft in alternate directions, and a swing motion sensing unit including an encoder wheel securely mounted with a second pivot shaft. The second pivot shaft is directly coupled with the first pivot shaft in angular displacement via frictional interaction. As a result, the rotation of the first pivot shaft and corresponding swing motion can monitored in a precise manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Wonderland Nurserygoods Company Limited
    Inventor: Peter R. Tuckey
  • Patent number: 8512159
    Abstract: Apparatus for driving a swing for an occupant of a certain mass and size where the drive mechanism includes a pneumatic power system and linkage for oscillating swing arm brackets. The power system is interconnected between the brackets and a stationary support and is self-compensating for variations in load related to natural frequency of the certain mass and wind resistance relative to occupant size. The power system includes a piston/cylinder arrangement where the piston is drivingly connected to at least one of the swing arm bracket supports and grounded to a stationary support. An automatically self-indexing valve control unit is attached relative to the piston/cylinder arrangement. The valve includes a reversing trigger arm carried by either the piston or cylinder configured to reset pneumatic flow direction with each oscillating piston stroke. The power system timed and is self-compensating for variations in natural frequency due to occupant mass and air resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Inventor: Leslie L. Miller
  • Patent number: 8500201
    Abstract: As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the permanent magnet 8 is fixed on the one of the suspension rods 9 and located between the two coils 6 of the two electromagnets 1. To make the chair seat 12 which is originally at rest rock, the electromagnetic rocking chair will be powered on first, and then a rocking button on the control panel (not shown) will be pressed down. After that, the wires a, b will alternately produce higher and lower electric levels (triodes Q1, Q2, Q3 and Q4, Q5, Q6 work alternately) to produce an alternately changing magnetic field within the coils 6 of the electromagnet 1, and the alternately changing magnetic field will push and pull the permanent magnet 8, making the chair seat 12 move back and forth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Hui Mei Baby Products Ltd.
    Inventor: Mei-Sheng Teng
  • Publication number: 20130196781
    Abstract: A motion apparatus for use in combination with a standard infant carrier, such as a car seat. The motion apparatus comprises a support structure and a frame for receiving the transportable base of an infant car seat, and a drive assembly, which, when activated causes motion of the infant carrier. Methods and devices of the invention are useful to soothe an infant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventor: Sarah B. Gregorian
  • 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: 8491402
    Abstract: A swing mechanism for an infant and child swing includes a swing arm, a swing angle adjustment assembly and a PWM motor driving unit. The swing arm is driven by a motor for swinging forth and back in a first direction and a second direction. The swing angle adjustment assembly includes a knob, a connecting arm and a sensor, wherein the knob is associated with the sensor by the connecting arm thereby moving the sensor to a reference point at a swing height of the infant and child swing by turning the knob. The PWM motor driving unit inputs an adjustable voltage to the motor for driving the swing arm, and interrupting the adjustable voltage thereafter when the swing arm arrived the reference point in the first direction. A method for controlling the infant and child swing uses the swing mechanism as described above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Lerado (Zhong Shan) Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chuan-Kun Yeh, Kuang-Neng Cheng