Specially Adapted For Infant Support Patents (Class 5/655)
  • Patent number: 8214950
    Abstract: The present invention provides a carrying sling for a person including a flexible sheet, and an elongate flexible member secured in first, second, third and fourth locations to the sheet, the first and second locations defining a first leg loop there between, the first and third locations defining a second leg loop there between, the fourth location defining a torso support, the second and fourth locations defining a first handle there between for lifting the sheet, and the third and fourth locations defining a second handle there between for lifting the sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventors: Peter A. Topaz, Carol J. Topaz, Stephen R. Topaz
  • Patent number: 8205284
    Abstract: A prenatal/postnatal pillow is disclosed. The pillow includes a body with a first end, a medial portion, and a second end. The pillow may possess a generally C-shaped structure defining an interior well operable to curve around a body part of a user. The interior of the pillow body defines a cavity, which may include a series of cells containing a predetermined amount of fill material. The ends of the pillow body may include fasteners that connect to draw the ends of the pillow together, forming a compact support surface. The pillow also includes an internal compartment for storing articles such as blankets, bottles, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventor: Mary G. Mastrosimone-Gese
  • Patent number: 8205285
    Abstract: A foam wedge has a cutout formed therein. A plastic casing is dimensioned for securement over the foam wedge. A fabric cover is dimensioned for removable coupling over the plastic casing and the foam wedge. The fabric cover includes a pad for positioning within the cutout of the foam wedge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Inventors: Michael E. Klingemann, Alisa A. Klingemann
  • Patent number: 8196238
    Abstract: A surgical table for infants and small animals has a bed assembly that is rotatable. The bed assembly includes a stationary plate and a rotating plate with a brake that controls rotation. The bed assembly may be connected by a clamp to the frame of a conventional operating table and supported alongside or above. The bed assembly may also be permanently mounted on its own vertical support. The bed assembly may also be permanently mounted to the operating table by an articulated clamp that allows the bed assembly to be stored alongside. A central opening is present in both plates so that hoses and wires connected to the patient will pass through this opening to permit rotation of the patient with the table with no stress on the hoses or wires where they connect to the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Inventors: Thomas Hejkal, Kimberly Ryland, Carl Nelson
  • Patent number: 8191188
    Abstract: A swaddle blanket and mattress attachment device. The swaddle blanket includes a top end and a bottom end with a pocket disposed at the bottom end and configured to enclose an infants legs. A first side of the blanket is configured to wrap over the infant in one direction and a second side of the blanket is configured to wrap over the infant and the first side in the other direction. A fastener is disposed on the second side of the blanket and is configured to secure the second side in place over the first side. At least one attachment strap is secured to the swaddle blanket. When the blanket is in an attachment position the attachment strap extends away from the swaddle blanket. The attachment strap including a first mating pair fastener. The mattress attachment device is configured to be secured to a sleeping surface. The mattress attachment device includes at least one second mating pair fastener that is securable to the first mating pair fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Triboro Quilt Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Joel Kaplan, Alvin Kaplan, Richard White, Deborah Ashworth, Jonathan Daugherty
  • Patent number: 8191189
    Abstract: In general, various embodiments of the present invention disclose swaddling implements and/or blankets that immobilize an infant's arms while placing gentle, even pressure on the torso, restricting leg movement without excessive pressure, and leaving the infant's head unencumbered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Inventor: Leigh Anne Schaefer Spell
  • Patent number: 8186354
    Abstract: The present invention is a simple, adaptable orthotic device that can correct and/or prevent deformational posterior plagiocephaly, especially if used before the infant is 4 months of age. The manufactured article provides an anatomically correcting, adjustable, concave-shaped resting surface for an infant's head in a manner that effectively eliminates uneven pressure on the infant's occiput. The orthotic device has a modular design which permits easy adjustments of the devices' head cavity to accommodate differences in individual infant head size and shape, thereby providing the infant's head with a custom fit. Also, as the infant continues to grow in size, the adjustable head cavity and torso recess features of the orthotic device allow the contoured spatial volume and dimensions of the molded supporting surfaces to expand as the infant's calvaria grow; and thereby facilitate a progressive, normalization and rounding of the infant's occiput.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignees: Boston Brace, Children's Hospital Boston
    Inventors: Gary F. Rogers, James R. Miller
  • Patent number: 8166587
    Abstract: A portable breastfeeding and nursing pillow for a baby includes a base portion in a generally rectangular shape with a contoured side. The base portion further includes a boarder about at least three sides of the base portion and extending a distance above a first feeding surface of the base portion for mitigating problems of the baby rolling off the first feeding surface. The top portion stacked underneath the base portion adds height if needed during the baby nursing time. The top portion also includes a second feeding surface for feeding the baby when additional height of the pillow without the boarder is desired. A strap is joined to the bottom portion for adjustably securing about a person's waist when the pillow is being used for breastfeeding or nursing a baby. The strap is adjustable for resting on a person's shoulder when transporting the pillow. A decorative binding strap holds the top portion to the bottom portion when transporting the pillow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Inventor: Valerie N Collins
  • Publication number: 20120096647
    Abstract: The disclosed changing station may support a small person, such as a baby. The station may comprise a platform, a support structure, and a mounting structure. The platform may be rotatable from a vertical storage position to a horizontal use position along a rotational axis. The support structure may have a rotatable support member that rotates along the rotational axis. The mounting structure may be used for mounting the support structure to a vertical wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2011
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Applicant: RUBBERMAID COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/US
    Inventors: Donald C. Presnell, Kevin Fitzpatrick
  • Publication number: 20120096646
    Abstract: Seat inserts and methods of manufacturing seat inserts are disclosed. An example seat insert includes a frame. A first base panel is coupled to the frame, and a second base panel is coupled to the frame. The second base panel is joined to the first base panel. The first base panel is positioned at a first incline and the second base panel is positioned at a second incline to provide an inclined support for a child. A relative length of at least one of the first base panel or the second base panel is adjustable to adjust angles of inclination of the first base panel and the second base panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2011
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Inventors: Traci J. Barron, Scott A. Walterman
  • Publication number: 20120090094
    Abstract: A diaper changing pad includes a first fabric layer with a first side and a second fabric layer, the first fabric layer being fastened to the second fabric layer at least about an outside perimeter, the first side of the first fabric layer being opposite the second fabric layer. The first side of the first fabric layer has a plurality of markings disposed thereon, the plurality of markings including a first marking indicating diapers, a second marking indicating wipes, and a third marking indicating clothing. The first side of the first fabric layer is substantially flat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventor: Leisel Theresa Whitlock Petersen
  • Patent number: 8151389
    Abstract: A baby changing mat adapted for fitting onto a stroller seat or car seat. The mat comprises an upper pad and a lower pad. The upper pad has a head end 112 and a foot end. The lower pad has a head end and a foot end. In some embodiments, the foot end of the upper pad pivotably connects with the head end of the lower pad. The upper pad has a generally a uniform thickness stretching from the head end to the foot end of the upper pad. In some embodiments, the head end of the lower pad has a thickness the same that of the foot end of the upper pad, and the thickness gradually increases towards the foot end of the lower pad to form a wedge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventor: Madelyn Lando
  • Patent number: 8127384
    Abstract: A device for lulling infants to sleep comprising a pillow with a receptacle and closure, wherein the middle portion of the sides of the pillow are curved inwards to form four corner sections, and wherein the corner sections of the pillow are puffed up compared to the rest of the pillow, so that the pillow can be easily used in conjunction with cradles, bassinets, strollers, and similar baby gear;. The device further comprises a battery-operated sound/vibration generating instrument received within the receptacle. The instrument can be operated to produce either sound or vibrations, or both. The sound comprises a simulated mother's heartbeat or a lullaby.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventor: Christine Frances Carlton
  • Patent number: 8127385
    Abstract: A method for securing an infant at a gently angled upright position employs an infant bedding system having a generally wedge shaped angular pillow; an angled pillow cover adapted to extend the angular pillow at an angle similar to that of the angular pillow, an incline from 20 to 40 degrees; a headring pillow; hook and loop fasteners for removably attaching the headring pillow to the angled pillow cover; a cloth wrap adapted to wrap around an infant; hook and loop fasteners for removably attaching the cloth wrap to the angled pillow cover; and hook and loop fasteners for securing said cloth wrap around the waist of an infant. The infant is placed on the infant bedding system with the infant's head resting on the headring pillow and the infant's body overlying the cloth wrap, the cloth wrap is folded up between the infant's legs to the infant's waist, and the cloth wrap is secured around the waist of the infant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventor: Elizabeth Goutevenier
  • Publication number: 20120048899
    Abstract: A rescue device is disclosed for rescuing a child from a life threatening situation. The device includes a container for the reception therein of the child. A cover cooperates with the container such that when the child has been placed within the container, the container and the cover cooperate together to define a safe enclosure for the evacuation of the child from the life threatening situation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: Daniel Templeton, Robert J. Gold
  • Patent number: 8122544
    Abstract: A base has upper and lower surfaces. The base has front and back edges. First and second side walls extend from the base. A center wall extends from the base spaced equally between the side walls. The side walls and the center wall have concave upper edges. The upper edges are adjacent to the back edge being at an elevation greater than at the front edge. The center wall divides the system into first and second reclining surfaces. The upper edges of the side and center walls are at an elevation above the upper edges of the reclining surfaces. Similarly configured first and second leg dividers extend vertically from the base adjacent to the front wall. The first and second leg dividers are in the first and second reclining surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Inventor: Lindsey T. Sandefur
  • Patent number: 8118268
    Abstract: A hands free baby bottle holder and feeder which includes a wedge shaped pillow and a U-shaped shaped pillow. A mechanism is for attaching the U-shaped pillow in an inverted position onto the wedge shaped pillow. A C-clamp mechanism on the U-shaped pillow is for holding a baby bottle in position, so that an infant placed onto the wedge shaped pillow between the U-shaped pillow can safely drink from the baby bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Inventor: Michael Mabry
  • Patent number: 8118364
    Abstract: A travel blanket is placed upon an infant in a car seat. The travel blanket has contoured sleeves and an open back construction, as well as stabilization means for securing the base section of the blanket onto an outer, exterior bottom portion of the seat. With these features, the travel blanket can be readily donned upon an infant that is buckled within a car safety seat without the need to adjust safety straps. The travel blanket includes a base section constructed with a base periphery integrated with the base stabilization means. Lateral sections of the travel blanket further include lateral perimeters appointed for aiding in securing the lateral sections over the infant, without wrapping the torso of the infant. Contoured arm sleeves provide enhanced safety to infants. The sleeves snuggly fit over the infant's wrists and do not have loose flowing material about the arms and wrists, which could present a suffocation risk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Inventor: Margaret A. Davis
  • Patent number: 8117698
    Abstract: A system of placing a vest with a rear hook and loop fastener on an infant, laying the child on a changing pad having a surface hook and loop fastener, and attaching the vest to the changing pad by fastening the hook and loop fasteners together, securely holding the infant onto a changing pad while changing a diaper. The changing pad has a flap that when closed, covers the surface hook and loop fastener when the system is not in use, to prevent snagging other clothing. The vest that can be placed on the child prior to and in preparation for changing a diaper when the child is standing, seated upright, or lying down. The vest has a front hook and loop closure for easy opening and closing by the user. The vest optionally includes tethered toys to amuse the child during diaper changing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Inventor: Zaida Khaze Harry
  • Publication number: 20120037869
    Abstract: A child holding accessory can be desirably installed on the play yard for use, and has two opposite regions adapted to receive a child in different configurations of use. Examples of construction for these holding regions can include, without limitation, a changing table and a child sleep bed. The child holding accessory can be attached with the play yard via one or more fixtures that is adjustable to turn upward either of the first and second regions for use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2011
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Applicant: WONDERLAND NURSERYGOODS COMPANY LIMITED
    Inventors: Joseph F. FIORE, III, Andrew J. TAYLOR, Sharon A. GILLETT, Andrew J. HORST, Curtis M. HARTENSTINE, Nathanael SAINT, Guang-Hui ZHAO, Haibo ZENG, Wuxing XU, Jonathan M. PACELLA
  • Publication number: 20120037870
    Abstract: A child holding accessory can be desirably installed on the play yard for use, and has two regions on opposite sides adapted to receive a child in different configurations of use. Examples of construction for these holding regions can include, without limitation, a changing table and a child sleeping bed. The child holding accessory can include a support board, and a cushion element mounted with the support board. The support board is configured to deform differently depending on whether the child is placed on the first or second region, so that the bearing surfaces associated with the holding regions can have different firmness to provide adequate resting of the child.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Applicant: WONDERLAND NURSERYGOODS COMPANY LIMITED
    Inventors: Joseph F. FIORE, JR., Curtis M. HARTENSTINE, Andrew J. HORST, Zeng-Wen GUO, Nangui BU
  • Publication number: 20120030877
    Abstract: A baby change mat has a rectangular base mat, and pockets attached to a side of the base mat. The base mat has a non-slip fastening belt for fastening the base mat to a change table. The base mat provides a first work surface for changing a baby. The pocket provides storage space for storing items needed for changing the baby. A cover is detachably attached to the base mat for providing a second work surface. A flap is detachably attached to a side of the rectangular base mat. The flap can be folded on top of the base mat or the cover for providing a third work surface. The baby change mat can be rolled up and held in the rolled up configuration with an elastic closure loop. A carrying handle facilitates attaching the rolled up baby change mat to a support such as a baby stroller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2011
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventor: JENNIFER KARA BECK
  • Patent number: 8099810
    Abstract: The disclosed changing station may support a small person, such as a baby. The station may comprise a platform, a support structure, and a mounting structure. The platform may be rotatable from a vertical storage position to a horizontal use position along a rotational axis. The support structure may have a rotatable support member that rotates along the rotational axis. The mounting structure may be used for mounting the support structure to a vertical wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Rubbermaid Commercial Products LLC
    Inventors: Donald C. Presnell, Kevin Fitzpatrick
  • Patent number: 8096304
    Abstract: A head-positioning aid for treating or preventing plagiocephaly and torticollis is formed of a soft, compliant beanie-style cap. A soft and pliable deflector is attached to the beanie cap and extends downward from near the apex to near the lower edge of the cap. The cap is applied on an infant's head in an orientation to place the deflector at any required position about the circumference of the head. The cap and deflector are united by themed indicia designed to bring family acceptance of the cap to promote acceptance and thereby support long term usage, as may be required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Inventors: Jane Scott, David Scott, Julianne Heath
  • Publication number: 20120005834
    Abstract: A compact, pre-formed, reversible wedge-shaped pillow for supporting the head of a baby or, interchangeably, for supporting a bottle for a baby, is provided. The pillow includes a contoured, wedge-shaped body comprising a first longitudinal side, a second longitudinal side, a third longitudinal side, and two opposing angular ends. The first longitudinal side is configured with a head-receiving contour for isolating and supporting the baby's head during sleeping, feeding, or traveling in a car seat—thus reducing flat head syndrome. The third longitudinal side is configured with a bottle-receiving contour. If used in combination with a second pillow of the present invention, the head of the baby can rest within the head-receiving contour of the first pillow, while the bottle to feed the baby can rest within the bottle-receiving contour of the second pillow; thus assisting with proper digestion during feeding by elevating the head above the stomach level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventor: Charles Samuel Kent
  • Publication number: 20110314608
    Abstract: A diaper bag having an integral changing pad is disclosed which comprises a bag having an interior compartment with the bag having a top portion and a bottom portion, a cover for covering the interior compartment with the cover attached to the top portion for folding the cover over the top portion of the bag, and a changing pad having a first section connected to a second section and the second section connected to the bottom portion with the first section and the second section for being folded up in the interior compartment or unfolded-out of the interior compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2011
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Inventor: Scott A. Rovin
  • Patent number: 8082615
    Abstract: The present invention provides an infant bed having a support frame, an elastically inflatable mattress removably disposed on the support frame, an inflating and heating apparatus operably connected to the elastically inflatable mattress, wherein the inflating and heating apparatus continuously circulates heated air through the elastically inflatable mattress vibrating, expanding, and contracting an upper sleeping surface of the elastically inflatable mattress.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Inventor: Solaiman B. S. A. Alkhattaf
  • Patent number: 8082614
    Abstract: An infant sleep aid device for alleviating acid reflux symptoms, preventing suffocation and collecting spit up or vomit is disclosed. The device includes a wedge-shaped body with a substantially flat incline to receive and support the infant in a prone or supine position. In addition the infant sleep aid includes section to support the torso of the infant and a section to support the head of the infant. The head support section is uniquely devised to include a wire mesh cloth sufficiently tensioned to support the head of the infant and through which spit up and vomit can drain through down to a funnel shaped body attached thereto or placed underneath; and means for delivering fresh breathing air through holes on the sides of the support head section. The infant sleep aid also includes primary and secondary harnesses to support and secure the infant in either prone or supine position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Inventor: Said Ibrahim Nour
  • Patent number: 8079104
    Abstract: The disclosed changing station may support a small person, such as a baby. The station may comprise a platform, a support structure, and a mounting structure. The platform may be rotatable from a vertical storage position to a horizontal use position along a rotational axis. The support structure may have a rotatable support member that rotates along the rotational axis. The mounting structure may be used for mounting the support structure to a vertical wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Rubbermaid Commercial Products/US
    Inventors: Donald C. Presnell, Kevin Fitzpatrick
  • Patent number: 8079639
    Abstract: A bouncer includes a seat, a first connecting member, a support member, and an engaging member. The first connecting member has a first end and a second end. The first end of the first connecting member is connected to the seat. The support member is rotatably connected to the second end of the first connecting member. The engaging member is movably disposed in the support member and capable of moving between a locked position and an unlocked position, so as to selectively restrain the support member from rotating. Accordingly, the bouncer of the invention can be operated in different using states.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Wonderland Nurserygoods Company Limited
    Inventors: Hai-Bo Zeng, Sharon A. Gillett
  • Patent number: 8074312
    Abstract: A device for correcting the shape of an infant's abnormally-shaped cranium by applying external forces over time with the growth of an infant to achieve normal shaping of the infant's head. The device applies inwardly-directed external forces only to areas of bony prominence and minimizes (or altogether eliminates) these forces on the areas of the skull that are less prominent (or flattened). Because the present invention is non-conforming to the shape of an abnormal skull, the exerted forces cause accelerated expansion of the skull in less prominent (flattened) areas coincident with brain and skull growth. This causes the cranium to return to a normal symmetric cranial shape. The material that contacts the infant's cranium is semi-rigid, relatively non-flexible, and maintains its overall shape under stress. For an infant with an already normally-shaped cranium, the device causes the infant's cranium to grow evenly and maintain its normal shape, and thus prevents abnormal cranial shaping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Inventor: Micam W. Tullous
  • Publication number: 20110296619
    Abstract: The portable diaper changing station of the present invention comprises a composite, nonporous shaped body member which is contoured to provide a secure changing surface. A carry handle may be integrated into the body member along with at least one storage compartment for the storage of changing supplies such as diapers, wipes and powders. In one embodiment, the changing station is generally rectangular in shape, rigid and includes a nonporous contoured changing surface with a shaped contoured pad running a substantial length of the contoured changing surface. A shaped nonporous head rest is contoured and formed therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicant: EGO Brands, LLC
    Inventors: Jennifer York, Misti Neas, James L. Dillion, Robert H. Palmer
  • Publication number: 20110296618
    Abstract: A baby support device is described. The baby support device comprises an elongate first surface adapted to support all or part of a baby and a shorter second surface adapted to support at least part of a baby, the first and second surfaces being arranged at an angle with respect to one another such that the first surface alone or the first and second surfaces together can, in use, fully support a baby in both the prone or supine orientations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2009
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Inventor: Geraldine Abrahams
  • Patent number: 8069517
    Abstract: A combination diaper changer and dispenser is provided, particularly for “on-the-go” diapering. A generally trifold structure of sheet material has an inside surface side and an outside surface side, and includes an intermediate panel serving as a rear cover when the structure is folded, a first end panel serving as a front cover when the structure is folded, and a second end panel serving as a diaper changing surface when unfolded. A bag dispenser compartment is secured to the intermediate panel on the inside surface side. The dispenser compartment includes a dispensing aperture for withdrawing bags.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: BRICA, Inc.
    Inventors: Mary Jean Bush, Melissa De La Vega, Lawrence O. Freese
  • Patent number: 8069856
    Abstract: A dynamic infant head support for preventing, or correcting, the abnormal shape of a head of an infant, and a method of using the support for treating deformational plagiocephaly. The support is an oval-shaped pillow, with a central opening to receive the head of the infant to be treated. Spaced barriers divide the interior of the pillow into a plurality of compartments. A ring-like manifold passes through the interior of the pillow and communicates with each compartment. A plurality of valves is operatively associated with the manifold; one valve is located in each compartment. The valves allow fluid, such as pressurized air, in the manifold, to inflate individual compartments. The manifold is pressurized by a pump, at a remote location; a heater warms the pressurized air. A remote controller is connected to the valves by electrical leads. The controller governs the sequence of operation of the valves, and regulates the duration of time that each valve is open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Jessica Joy Kell
    Inventor: Jessica Joy Kell
  • Patent number: 8065767
    Abstract: The present invention provides a safety apparatus as an aid for the prevention of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome: A mattress, fitting the dimensions of a standard-sized crib, is composed of three different layers, allowing a free flow of air through it to the infant lying in any position. The lowest layer has transverse channels allowing cross-wise air movement. The middle and top layers have vertical perforations through them allowing a vertical flow of air. Being composed of 3 layers, differing in density and firmness, the mattress is both firm and pleasant to the touch. Therefore, in addition to its primary function, the mattress provides a method to counter a potential delay in the motor development of the infant, which can result from prolonged lying in the supine position. A mesh sheet is stretched taut over the mattress and fastened securely to the vertical bars of the crib.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventors: Moshe Gabbai, Anatte Gabbai
  • Publication number: 20110283455
    Abstract: A baby change table which is to be mounted on a wall so that it can be folded up against the wall when not in use or lowered about a hinge axis when required, has a platform for a baby which can be installed either extending parallel to the wall, or at right angles to the wall. The orientation of the platform may be fixed at the time of installing the table, as the platform can be installed either orientation while maintaining a generally constant distance from the wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2010
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Inventor: John Edward Grainger
  • Publication number: 20110277210
    Abstract: Embodiments provide apparatus for care of an infant, the apparatus including a comfort support for returning legs of an infant to fully folded positions relative to the torso.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2011
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventor: CLIFFORD ALLEN HARDESTY
  • Patent number: 8056161
    Abstract: There is provided a sheet system for securing a child in a preferred position on a sleep surface and covering the child, the sheet system including: a base sheet; a band for securing a child in a preferred position; a first attachment means for attaching the band to the base sheet; a top sheet for covering the secured child, and a second attachment means for attaching the top sheet to the base sheet and a stabilizing means for stabilizing the base sheet on a sleep surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Inventor: Kirsty Barry
  • Publication number: 20110271455
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a nursing cushion having a head support portion, a buttock support portion, and a leg support portion, for supporting the head, the buttocks, and the leg of an infant during nursing. The head support portion is formed into a curved concave shape for supporting the rear part of the head of the infant. A neck-supporting curved portion protrudes from beneath the head support portion to support the rear part of the neck of the infant. The buttock support portion is formed into a curved concave shape beneath the neck-supporting curved portion to support the buttocks of the infant. A knee supporting curved portion protrudes from beneath the buttock support portion to support the rear part of the knee of the infant. The leg support portion is formed beneath the knee-supporting curved portion to support the leg of the infant. The buttock support portion has, at both upper edges thereof, gently formed recesses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2010
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventor: Moon-Hwan Park
  • Patent number: 8051510
    Abstract: A foldable diaper bag, changing surface and play pad assembly is disclosed. The foldable diaper bag, changing surface, and play pad assembly comprises a circular portion and a rectangular portion attached to and extending outwardly from said circular portion, wherein said circular portion in combination with said rectangular portion define a keyhole shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Inventor: Sharon R. Soloway
  • Publication number: 20110265265
    Abstract: A changing mat having securing features allows a caretaker to easily and conveniently change the infant's diaper when traveling, at home, or elsewhere. The changing mat may include one or more mounts or groups of mounts which allow the infant to be strapped and secured to the mat. The mounts may be positioned such that the straps do not obstruct the diaper changing process. A stiffening element within the changing mat helps ensure that the infant's movements are restricted during changing. One or more gripping elements prevent the changing mat from sliding or moving when in use. A support surface may be provided to support and/or cushion to the infant. The changing mat may have a variety of shapes used to appeal to caretakers and to properly support the infant during a diaper change.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventor: Maria Oltmann Roach
  • Patent number: 8037561
    Abstract: An objective of the present invention is to provide a diaper change mat which has excellent workability and facilitates changing diapers. A diaper change mat according to the present invention includes surface fasteners (101 to 105 and 101? to 105?) configured to be fastened detachably to a diaper and a mat (11) on which the surface fasteners (101 to 105 and 101? to 105?) are fixed. The surface fasteners (101 to 105 and 101? to 105?) are preferably convex members of surface fasteners and the convex members are fastened to nonwoven fabric used for a disposable diaper. The convex members of the surface fasteners are sheets provided with many engaging members of convex shape such as hooked or mushroom shaped, or the like. The surface fasteners (101 to 105 and 101? to 105?) can fix a diaper (2) in a spread state to the mat (11), and thus help facilitate changing diapers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Inventors: Stephen Austwick, Akiko Austwick
  • Patent number: 8032961
    Abstract: A sheet harness apparatus for retaining and supporting a person on top of a bed on their back, where the bed includes a head of the bed and a foot of the bed, a mattress, means for elevating the head of the bed relative to the foot of the bed and thereby positioning the mattress at an incline, and bed parts including a bed spring and a bed frame, the sheet harness apparatus including a sheet having a sheet head end and a sheet foot end and a sheet upper surface and a sheet lower surface, for fitting onto a mattress; a harness fastened to the sheet; and at least one sheet anchor strap with a strap connected end fastened to the sheet and a strap anchoring end having a strap anchoring fastener, for wrapping around a part of a bed at the head of the bed and fastening to itself, so that the strap anchoring end forms a loop around a part of the bed and thereby prevents the sheet from sliding toward the foot of the bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Inventor: Lorraine McEachin Downs
  • Patent number: 8032958
    Abstract: A swaddling blanket for infants, particularly newborn infants, and more particularly for premature infants, comprises an inner blanket and an outer blanket. Each of the inner and outer blankets comprises three flap members such that when all three flap members of the inner blanket, and all three flap members of the outer blanket, are folded over the infant, the infant is comfortably enclosed within six blanket layers in order to provide the infant with the requisite amount of warmth. The baby is also placed upon a support cushion effectively built into the swaddling blanket such that the baby's head, neck, and spinal regions are adequately supported.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Inventors: Anna Pieta, Teresa Ciesielski
  • Publication number: 20110239372
    Abstract: Embodiments of the technology provide a personal support device for provision of therapeutic support to a portion of a body resting thereon and methods associated with the device. Device embodiments include a substrate having an array of pressure-distributing element host sites, and a population of volumetrically-incompressible pressure-distributing elements at the host sites to form an array of pressure-distributing elements. A therapeutic surface overlays the pressure-distributing elements, and provides an interface between the array of pressure-distributing elements and an aspect of the body portion in contact with the therapeutic surface. The device is configured to form a supportive site within the therapeutic surface that is conformative to the aspect of the body portion in contact with the therapeutic surface when the body part is lying thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventors: Nikhil Bhat, George Yoseung Choi
  • Patent number: 8028361
    Abstract: An infant support device for supporting an infant in a prone position, comprising a base with a front, a back, a top, a bottom and two side members, said base having a support surface extending between the side members on the top of the base; the support surface being defined by two portions: (I) a body support surface disposed proximate the front of the support device and terminating adjacent the front of the device, and (II) a leg support surface extending rearwardly from terminus of the body support surface toward the back of the device; and having a grip for retaining the posterior side of the legs of the infant and extending upwardly from the support surface between the side members; wherein an infant is supported in a prone position on the support surface between the side members, and the legs are supported on the leg support surface and are retained by said grip to minimize infant rollover toward a supine position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Inventors: Kevin Ramer, Gabriela Ramer
  • Publication number: 20110232000
    Abstract: An attachable diaper-changing table for use with a stroller and/or other suitable sturdy surface(s) such as a bathroom counter or bench. The attachable diaper-changing table enables a caregiver to easily and safely change a diaper of an infant along with providing a clean, elevated and sanitary surface on which to change a soiled diaper while on the go. The attachable diaper-changing table comprises a removably-attachable changing table platform assembly and adjustable support brackets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventors: Vitmary Rodriguez, Lance Edwards
  • Patent number: 8024829
    Abstract: Weight restraining pillow has a filled outer perimeter area encompassing a central sling area. The sling is defined in part by two generally parallel outer seams adjacent the outer perimeter, and an inner seam located between the outer seams which help hold the fill of the perimeter in place. When a weighted object is placed on the sling, the perimeter is drawn inward toward the object placed therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Inventors: Mia Carr, Loretta E. Carr
  • Publication number: 20110225738
    Abstract: Implementations for an infant sleep positioner are generally disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2010
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Inventor: Evangelia Vensel