Folding Patents (Class 5/99.1)
  • Patent number: 8955175
    Abstract: A corner assembly for a foldable child enclosure includes: a corner cover attached to a side post of the foldable child enclosure; a first rail cover mating with a first opening in the corner cover and attached to a first upper arm of the foldable child enclosure; and a second rail cover mating with a second opening in the corner cover and attached to a second upper arm of the foldable child enclosure. The first rail cover and the second rail cover move relative to the corner cover as the foldable child enclosure is moved from a folded position to an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Thorley Industries LLC
    Inventors: Elijah M. Wiegmann, Robert D. Daley, Jared A. Rosenthal, Henry F. Thorne
  • Patent number: 8943622
    Abstract: An infant playpen apparatus includes a playpen frame having two opposite side frame portions, two rail structures respectively affixed with the two side frame portions, a support platform operable to detachably assemble with the rail structures, and two coupling structures connected with the support platform and operable to respectively assemble with the rail structures. At least one of the coupling structures includes a latch that can lock an assembly of the support platform with the rail structure, and unlock the assembly of the support platform with the rail structure for removing the support assembly from the rail structure. The playpen apparatus can further include a bassinet held with the playpen frame. The support platform can slide along the rail structures between a first position where the support platform substantially uncovers the bassinet, and a second position where the support platform lies above and substantially overlaps with the bassinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Wonderland Nurserygoods Company Limited
    Inventors: Nathaneal Saint, Jonathan K. Mountz, Andrew J. Winterhalter, Jonathan M. Pacella, William B. Bellows
  • Patent number: 8925128
    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: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Wonderland Nurserygoods Company Limited
    Inventors: Joseph F. Fiore, Jr., Curtis M. Hartenstine, Andrew J. Horst, Zeng-Wen Guo, Nangui Bu
  • Patent number: 8919871
    Abstract: A foldable infant seat includes a support frame including two generally U-shaped support members, each U-shaped support member pivotally connecting with the other at a central location of the U-shaped support member such that the support frame is foldable between a first configuration in which corresponding ends of the U-shaped support members are separated from each other and a second configuration in which the corresponding ends of the U-shaped support members are disposed in close proximity to each other. A flexible seat member is securable to the support frame. In one embodiment, a canopy is pivotally secured to the support frame. The canopy can include at least one pocket configured to store one or more items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Kurt J. Huntsberger, Maarten Van Huystee, Gregory S. Young
  • Publication number: 20140325756
    Abstract: A foldable structure includes: an upper assembly forming an upper portion of the structure; a base assembly forming a lower portion of the structure; a centrally-located hub assembly operatively connected to the base assembly; and a post extending from each corner of the upper assembly to a corner of the base assembly. The upper assembly includes a plurality of arm assemblies. At least one latching mechanism is provided at each corner of the upper assembly extending from an upper portion of at least one of the posts to a portion of at least one of the arm assemblies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2014
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Inventors: Henry F. Thorne, Robert D. Daley, Frederick Karl Hopke, Elijah M. Wiegmann, Jessica A. Bailey, Jared A. Rosenthal
  • Patent number: 8844549
    Abstract: A modular outdoor playpen apparatus including a room-sized enclosure, having an area in a range of 10 square feet to 20 square feet, the enclosure having a cushioned bottom wall, an open top, four side panels releasably hingedly attached to each other, a unitary cushioned padding removably disposed over all of the entire inner walls of the side panels, and a padded covering removably disposed over the bottom wall between the side panels. The apparatus also provides a canopy that attaches to the cushioned padding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Inventor: Hinda A. Mohamed
  • Patent number: 8813278
    Abstract: A handrail structure adapted to a crib comprises a handrail member, a locking mechanism and a first pivoting member. A first pivoting portion of the handrail member is pivotally connected to the locking mechanism by the first pivoting member. A second pivoting portion of the handrail member is pivotally connected to a support member by a second pivoting member. The locking mechanism is capable of selectively locking or releasing the first pivoting portion. The second pivoting portion has an opening formed thereon and the second pivoting member is movably disposed in the opening. The second pivoting member abuts against a first edge of the opening when the locking mechanism locks the first pivoting portion. The handrail member is capable of being rotated with respect to at least one of the locking mechanism and the support member when the second pivoting member abuts against a second edge of the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Wonderland Nurserygoods Company Limited
    Inventors: Zong-Wang Cui, Jonathan M. Pacella
  • Patent number: 8806674
    Abstract: A foldable structure includes: an upper assembly forming an upper portion of the structure; a base assembly forming a lower portion of the structure; a centrally-located hub assembly operatively connected to the base assembly; and a post extending from each corner of the upper assembly to a corner of the base assembly. The upper assembly includes a plurality of arm assemblies. At least one latching mechanism is provided at each corner of the upper assembly extending from an upper portion of at least one of the posts to a portion of at least one of the arm assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Thorley Industries LLC
    Inventors: Henry F. Thorne, Robert D. Daley, Frederick Karl Hopke, Elijah M. Wiegmann, Jessica A. Bailey, Jared A. Rosenthal
  • Patent number: 8806673
    Abstract: A child containment system has a child containment structure with a bottom and a perimeter wall surrounding the bottom. A connector part is on each of two opposed outward facing surfaces of the perimeter wall. The system has a bassinet with a bottom panel and surrounding wall around the bottom panel. The bassinet is removably mounted to the perimeter wall with the bottom panel elevated above the bottom. The system has an infant sleeping apparatus with a fabric panel, a top surface, a pair of opposed sides, and a pair of opposed ends. The infant sleeping apparatus has a connector part positioned near each of the pair of the opposed ends. The infant sleeping apparatus is removably mounted to the containment structure with the fabric panel overlying the bassinet bottom panel with each connector part of the sleeping apparatus coupled to one of the connector parts of the containment structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Graco Children's Products Inc.
    Inventors: Brandon Burkholder, Matt Rivera, Annette Stella
  • Publication number: 20140215714
    Abstract: A bassinet for infants and children includes a child receiving receptacle and a collapsible frame assembly attached to and supporting the child receiving receptacle. A lock is selectively operable for locking the collapsible frame assembly in its extended configuration and for unlocking the same to allow the collapsible frame assembly to be collapsed. The collapsible frame assembly comprising a first collapsible frame portion collapsible between an extended configuration and a collapsed configuration and vice-versa, the collapsible frame assembly further comprising a second collapsible frame portion collapsible between an extended configuration and a collapsed configuration and vice-versa. The first and second collapsible frame portions are pivotally coupled to one another for movement between the frame assembly's extended configuration and its collapsed configuration, with each collapsible frame portion including a pair of generally U-shaped frame members pivotally connected to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: KIDS II, INC.
    Inventors: Qing XU, Daniel CORSO, Alex SORIANO
  • Publication number: 20140208504
    Abstract: A collapsible crib is an infant bed that is particularly sized in order to facilitate transport and incorporates various features that permit it to be deployed and assembled with relative ease. The collapsible crib contains a canopy section and a crib section that are utilized to provide a partially enclosed sleeping area for an infant. The canopy section is detachably coupled to the crib section and provides shade to the interior portion where the infant would be positioned. The crib section is the padded enclosed sleeping area that is particularly constructed with features permitting it to be disassembled and reassembled with ease. The canopy section and the crib section contain features that permit them to transition between a collapsed state and an assembled state. Through the combination of these components the collapsible crib offers a safe and secure enclosed sleeping area for infants that can be easily transported.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Inventor: Liem Do
  • Publication number: 20140208505
    Abstract: A child containment device has a playard and a bassinet accessory supported on the playard. A mattress is positioned within the bassinet accessory. The device can have a mattress support structure attached to the bassinet accessory or the mattress and can have a bassinet support structure attached to the bassinet accessory. The mattress support structure can keep the mattress flat and level and be irremovably attached to the mattress or bassinet accessory. The bassinet support structure can be irremovably attached to the bassinet accessory or can be configured to orient the mattress to contact a playard floor panel or be oriented 30° or more from a level orientation if improperly installed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2014
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Inventors: Brandon Burkholder, Matthew Rivera, Annette Stella
  • Patent number: 8756727
    Abstract: A foldable enclosure apparatus for a child includes: an upper assembly forming an upper portion of the enclosure; a base assembly connected to the upper assembly forming a lower portion of the enclosure and including a plurality of base legs provided in an X-shaped configuration; and at least four lower corner assemblies such that each of the plurality of base legs is connected to at least one of the four lower corner assemblies; and a hub assembly connected to the base assembly and centrally located with respect to the four corner assemblies. At least one of the at least four lower corner assemblies includes a wheel and the wheel is set at an angle such that an axis of rotation of the wheel is generally perpendicular to a plane of at least one of the plurality of base legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Thorley Industries LLC
    Inventors: Henry F. Thorne, Robert D. Daley
  • Publication number: 20140165288
    Abstract: The present invention is to provide a supporting mechanism disposed on a hammock for supporting a mattress, and the supporting mechanism includes a folding component and a plurality of supporting components. The folding component is disposed on a central position of the hammock, and the folding component includes an upper surface, a lower surface and an avoiding section passing through the upper surface and the lower surface. The plurality of supporting components is disposed around the folding component and for supporting the mattress. An end of each of the plurality of supporting components is pivotally connected to the folding component, and the other end of each supporting component is fixed on an edge position of the hammock. The operation of the supporting mechanism is easy so that the hammock and the bedstead can be folded or unfolded together. Accordingly, the present invention is to provide a crib therewith.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2013
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Inventors: HONGGUANG WANG, Wen-Qu Hu, Chin-Ming Cheng
  • Publication number: 20140123385
    Abstract: A foldable structure includes: an upper assembly forming an upper portion of the structure; a base assembly forming a lower portion of the structure; a centrally-located hub assembly operatively connected to the base assembly; and a post extending from each corner of the upper assembly to a corner of the base assembly. The upper assembly includes a plurality of arm assemblies. At least one latching mechanism is provided at each corner of the upper assembly extending from an upper portion of at least one of the posts to a portion of at least one of the arm assemblies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2014
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Applicant: Thorley Industries LLC
    Inventors: Henry F. Thorne, Robert D. Daley, Frederick Karl Hopke, Elijah M. Wiegmann, Jessica A. Bailey, Jared A. Rosenthal
  • Publication number: 20140115779
    Abstract: A crib including first, second, third, and fourth walls configured to bound an interior space that is operative to support a mattress therein. Each of the third and fourth walls includes a pair of panels pivotally connected to each other to enable the crib to be configured between a folded position for storage and an extended position for use. The first wall includes a stationary portion and a drop gate that includes opposed side ends. The drop gate pivots relative to the stationary portion between an upper closed position and a lower open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: FOUNDATIONS WORLDWIDE, INC.
    Inventors: Joseph A. Lawlor, Robert L. Houry, Jason Biter, David E. Campbell, Alan L. Lytle
  • Patent number: 8677527
    Abstract: A portable playyard comprises: a playyard frame having two opposite upper side rails and an upper end rail; a crossing rod bridging the upper side rails; a flexible bottom wall mounted to a bottom side of the playyard frame; a flexible surrounding wall unit mounted to the playyard frame and including two opposite side walls and an end wall; a flexible partitioning wall connected to the playyard frame, trained on the crossing rod and having a vertical wall portion extending downwardly from the crossing rod, the vertical wall portion cooperating with the end wall to define a chamber therebetween; and at least one flexible shelf disposed in the chamber and connected to and cooperating with the partitioning wall to define a storage compartment therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Wonderland Nurserygoods Company Limited
    Inventors: Curtis M. Hartenstine, Sharon A. Gillett, Jonathan M. Pacella
  • Publication number: 20140075670
    Abstract: Disclosed is a collapsible device which can provide at least partial containment for one or more objects, including a child or animal, and which can collapse or fold into a compact configuration in order to allow for improved portability of the collapsible device. In some implementations, the collapsible device can include a collapsible frame and at least one flexible material component that can be reversibly secured to the collapsible frame. In addition, some implementations can include a foldable base or at least one adaptable feature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Inventor: Scott Crumrine
  • Publication number: 20140068857
    Abstract: A child containment device including a frame having at least one upper frame member, and a liner for removable attachment to the frame. The liner includes at least one wall portion for placement inside of the frame, a flap portion for extending over at least a portion of the upper frame member and outside of the frame, and a fastener securable on an exterior surface of the at least one wall portion of the liner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: KIDS II, INC.
    Inventors: Peter JACKSON, Chaitanya TADIPATRI, John M. THOMSON
  • Patent number: 8667626
    Abstract: A baby play station has a planar mat portion having a plurality of side edges, and a plurality of walls, each wall having incorporated therewith a panel, and each wall having a lower side that is hingedly coupled to one of the plurality of side edges of the mat portion. Each panel includes a foldable frame member having a folded and an unfolded orientation, the frame member defining a periphery for the panel with an interior space inside of the peiphery, and a fabric material covering the interior space defined by the frame member to form the panel when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Publication number: 20140059762
    Abstract: The invention provides an enclosed play space with outward support that keeps infants nestled safely while being entertained. The structure is an oval structure having a cushioned floor, wherein the wall and floor are attached with spaced apart hook and loop closures. The wall incorporates spaced apart flexible plastic rods encased between two thick material or fabric layers. The external surface comprises storage compartments which can be attached by hook and loop fasteners. The interior walls of the Baby Safe contain an assortment of entertaining items for an infant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventor: Edward Bonczek
  • Patent number: 8656530
    Abstract: The adjustable mechanism for changing floor height of a play yard according to the present invention comprises at least a foldable frame, a first bed floor, a flexible envelope and an adjustable mechanism. The foldable frame has an upper border portion and a base support assembly. The first bed floor is connected to the base support assembly. The flexible envelope has a second bed floor and a shading periphery connected with the second bed floor, the shading periphery is folded to form an indigitation length exposed outside the foldable frame thereby adjustably hanging on the upper border portion. The adjustable mechanism is operatively mounted on the foldable frame and connected with the lower end of the indigitation length for adjusting the second bed floor relative to the first bed floor in distance and height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Lerado (Zhong Shan) Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Youn-Fu You, Ho-Sheng Chen, Ching-Hsing Kuo
  • Publication number: 20140047639
    Abstract: A crib includes two side frames, two joints, a folding unit and two links. The two side frames each have two parallel transverse tubes and two connection tubes connected to two respective first ends of the two transverse tubes. Two parallel upright tubes support the transverse tubes and the connection tubes. The two respective second ends of the two transverse tubes of the two side frames are connected with the two respective joints. The folding unit is connected to one of the side frames and is connected to the two joints by the two links. When pressing the folding unit, the joints are unlocked by the links so as to move the two side frames toward each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2012
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Inventor: Pao-Hsien CHENG
  • Patent number: 8650678
    Abstract: A foldable structure includes: an upper assembly forming an upper portion of the structure; a base assembly forming a lower portion of the structure; a centrally-located hub assembly operatively connected to the base assembly; and a post extending from each corner of the upper assembly to a corner of the base assembly. The upper assembly includes a plurality of arm assemblies. At least one latching mechanism is provided at each corner of the upper assembly extending from an upper portion of at least one of the posts to a portion of at least one of the arm assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Thorley Industries LLC
    Inventors: Henry F. Thorne, Robert D. Daley, Frederick Karl Hopke, Elijah M. Wiegmann, Jessica A. Bailey, Jared A. Rosenthal
  • Publication number: 20140041116
    Abstract: A foldable play yard apparatus is provided. The play yard includes a frame having a plurality of upright posts. The posts have a top, a bottom, and a clamp connected to at least one longitudinal side of the post. The play yard further includes a flexible enclosure having a plurality of edges inserted in the clamps to form walls between the upright posts. The clamp includes: a housing having an opening for receiving the edge of the enclosure and defining an interior channel within the housing; a flag piece, which is positioned in the interior channel of the housing, connected to the edge of the enclosure; and a locking piece positioned across the interior channel from the flag piece. A frictional engagement between the locking piece and the flag piece maintains the flag piece and the edge connected thereto within the interior channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2013
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Applicant: Thorley Industries LLC
    Inventors: Jared A. Rosenthal, Elijah M. Wiegmann, Robert D. Daley, Frederick Karl Hopke, Henry F. Thorne
  • Patent number: 8640278
    Abstract: An adjustment mechanism for altering a height of a baby playpen from the ground to a bottom of the baby playpen is disclosed. The adjustment mechanism includes a foldable skeleton, a seat fabric slideably put on the foldable skeleton to construct a plurality of side surface and a bottom surface for forming an accommodation space, and a height adjustment positioning mechanism disposed between the foldable skeleton and the seat fabric thereby altering the height of the bottom surface from the ground by adjusting the seat fabric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Lerado(Zhong Shan)Industrial Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Youn-Fu You, Ho-Sheng Chen, Ching-Hsing Kuo
  • Patent number: 8635721
    Abstract: A playard includes standing posts. The standing posts are substantially arranged in parallel, and a gap is formed between two adjacent standing posts. The playard further includes a pillar disposed between the two adjacent standing posts, and a width of the pillar is larger than the gap formed between the two adjacent standing posts. The playard further includes an enclosure connected to the pillar. Two ends of the enclosure are pulled along directions away from the two adjacent standing posts respectively so that the pillar is abutted on the two adjacent standing posts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: BP Children's Products HK Co., Limited
    Inventor: Da Liang Zhang
  • Patent number: 8627520
    Abstract: An infant bed construction includes an outer fabric cover having longitudinally opposed rounded end portions joined by a generally rectangular medial portion. The cover includes an oval bottom assembly and a continuous sidewall extending upwardly from the perimeter of the bottom assembly. A pair of end frames are removably secured in the end portions of the bed. Each end frame includes an upstanding sidewall having a generally semi-cylindrical shape, with a base panel spanning the lower edges of the sidewall in contiguous fashion. A center frame panel is interposed between the two base panels in the bottom assembly. The fabric cover has end pockets to secure the end frame. The sidewalls of the medial portion of the bed include a layer of breathable structural material that is form-retaining yet bendable. The bed folds for transport by bringing together the two end portions, in clamshell fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Inventor: Farah D. Morton
  • Publication number: 20130333111
    Abstract: The top frame of a crib includes a locking unit pivotably connected between first and second ends of a first side of the top frame. A pivotal unit is pivotably connected between first and second ends of a second side of the top frame. The locking unit securely connects the first and second ends of the first side, while the pivotal unit is only pivotably connected between the first and second ends of the second side and cannot secure the first and second ends of the second side. The top frame is folded by releasing the locking unit only. This is convenient for the user who has one hand holding the baby and uses the other hand to fold the top frame of the crib.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2012
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Inventor: PAO-HSIEN CHENG
  • Patent number: 8607379
    Abstract: Knockdown furniture for an infant, having enhanced folding workability and safety for an infant. The knockdown furniture (1) for an infant has a frame (11) which forms a space for receiving an infant, and the frame (11) is provided with frame members (30, 40, 50) and a bottom plate (60) placed below the frame members (30, 40, 50). The frame members (30, 40, 50) can be folded into a flat shape lying along the bottom plate (60), and the frame members (30, 40, 50), which are folded into the flat shape lying along the bottom plate (60), and the bottom plate (60) can be integrally folded on each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: COMBI Corporation
    Inventors: Toshiro Yoshie, Rikimasa Gunji
  • Patent number: 8595870
    Abstract: A collapsible playpen system featuring a base panel and side panels that form an enclosure for a mattress. Bottom bars, side bars, and top bars separate the base panel and side panels. The bars each feature a center hinge joint allowing for the bars to move between an extended position and a collapsed position for storage purposes. The system also features a carrying case for housing the playpen when not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Inventor: Hector J. Lorenzo
  • Publication number: 20130298326
    Abstract: Play yards and methods of operating the same are disclosed. A disclosed example includes a collapsible upper frame, a collapsible lower frame, and posts to support the upper frame above the lower frame. The posts include respective tracks. The example also includes a foldable, frameless enclosure operatively coupled to the upper frame, the lower frame and the posts. The enclosure has a plurality of sides and a bottom to define an enclosure volume. The enclosure also has a plurality of corner beads dimensioned for receipt in a respective one of the tracks to secure the enclosure to the posts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventor: Damon Oliver Casati Troutman
  • Patent number: 8566988
    Abstract: A mattress pad assembly for use with a child containment area is disclosed. The mattress pad assembly includes a mattress pad having a plurality of panels each of which is coupled to at least one other panel along a flexible seam, wherein the mattress pad is reconfigurable between a non-planar configuration and a planar configuration defined by the cooperation of the plurality of panels to form a flexible top surface and a substantially rigid bottom surface. The mattress pad assembly further includes a support assembly coupled to the bottom surface of the mattress pad when the mattress pad is in the planar configuration, the support assembly having one or more support connectors coupled to at least two of the plurality of panels, and a brace configured to removably cooperate with the one or more support connectors, wherein the brace is configured to engage each of the plurality of panels to prevent bending along the flexible seam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Graco Children's Products Inc.
    Inventors: Ernest Son, Matthew Rivera, Melissa Wolf, Brandon Burkholder, James Dorsey
  • Patent number: 8555434
    Abstract: A child retaining structure includes a wall assembly defining a child receiving area, a platform disposed within the child receiving area, and a support member connected to the wall assembly and supporting the platform. The support member and the platform are reconfigurable between a raised position so that the child retaining structure functions as a bassinet, and a lowered position so that the child retaining structure functions as a playpen, or alternatively, as a playhouse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Linda J. Chapman, Timothy J. Trapp
  • Patent number: 8544125
    Abstract: A playard having an easily and selectively attachable changing table platform including a saddle structure for resting upon upper perimeter frame members of the playard and secured from unintentional removal by a latching mechanism. The latching mechanism includes a connector that is secured to the playard upper perimeter frame members in a manner fixing the vertical separation of the connector and the frame member. The changing table includes a latching member moveable between catch and release positions that engages the connector as the changing table is moved into an operable position and prevents the changing table from being uplifted from the playard. The moveable latching member is biased toward the catch position. Movement toward the release position allows the changing table to be removed from the playard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Artsana USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeff G. Greger, Michael L. Longenecker
  • Publication number: 20130239322
    Abstract: A foldable enclosure apparatus for a child includes: an upper assembly forming an upper portion of the enclosure; a base assembly connected to the upper assembly forming a lower portion of the enclosure and including a plurality of base legs provided in an X-shaped configuration; and at least four lower corner assemblies such that each of the plurality of base legs is connected to at least one of the four lower corner assemblies; and a hub assembly connected to the base assembly and centrally located with respect to the four corner assemblies. At least one of the at least four lower corner assemblies includes a wheel and the wheel is set at an angle such that an axis of rotation of the wheel is generally perpendicular to a plane of at least one of the plurality of base legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: Thorley Industries LLC
    Inventors: Henry F. Thorne, Robert D. Daley
  • Publication number: 20130232688
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a locking mechanism for a collapsible play yard frame. In various embodiments, the locking mechanism is configured to be adjusted between a locked position, in which the play yard frame is restricted from collapsing, and an unlocked position, in which the play yard frame is permitted to collapse. In particular embodiments, the locking mechanism is operatively connected to the play yard frame's lower frame members and includes a rotatable member configured for being rotated to adjust the locking mechanism between the locked position and the unlocked position. The locking mechanism's rotatable member enables the locking mechanism to be secured in the locked position when the play yard is in use and is easily adjusted by a user to the unlocked position when the play yard is to be collapsed for storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: KIDS II, INC.
    Inventors: Mark MENDES, Er-Jui CHEN
  • Patent number: 8522374
    Abstract: Infant-care furniture includes a playyard and a playyard accessory unit coupled to the playyard. The playyard accessory unit includes an accessory frame and a case coupled to the accessory frame, and further includes a changer shell coupled to an upper pedestal section that is coupled to the playyard. The accessory unit further includes a storage shell and a hamper shell coupled to the changer shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Cosco Management, Inc.
    Inventors: David Sousa, John Huntley, Michael Degrace, Gregg Espenshade
  • Publication number: 20130205496
    Abstract: A crib includes a top frame, four upright tubes, a bottom frame, four restriction members and two joints. The top frame includes two top end tubes and two sides connected between the two top end tubes. Each of the two sides has two side tubes between which the joint is connected. The bottom frame has two bottom tubes and each bottom tube has a straight connection section. The two respective connection sections are pivotably connected to each other and a support is connected to the bottom frame. The support has a locking unit located thereon. The four upright tubes are respectively and pivotably connected between the two top end tubes and the two bottom tubes. Four restriction members are respectively connected between the side tubes of and the upright tubes. The bottom tubes and the two sides can be folded when the locking units and joints are unlocked.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Inventor: PAO-HSIEN CHENG
  • Patent number: 8505136
    Abstract: A linking device is configured at the bottom of a playpen. Two of the bottom pipes at opposite side pivot to a base seat and further pivot to the linking device, which is engaged by a locking device so that the bottom pipes and the linking device are secured at an unfolding position. To fold the hub assembly, using a strap or by pushing the locking device directly pivots the locking device to disengage from the linking device and the bottom pipes may rotate to a folding position. To restore the hub assembly to the unfolding position, the linking device can be pressed to push an inclined surface of the locking device to impart a force to the locking device to pivot the locking device until the linking device snaps to engage the locking device, so the hub assembly is secured at the unfolding position again.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Excellerate Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Fu-Sian Yu, Xiao-Long Mo, Chih-Wei Wang
  • Publication number: 20130198952
    Abstract: A play yard for children, including a rigid support frame and a removable, flexible liner. The frame includes one or more fasteners configured to engage the liner in order to form a bounded play yard space. By securing the liner to the frame via the fasteners, a user is able to easily secure the liner to the frame for use and remove the liner from the frame for washing or replacement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2013
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: KIDS II, INC.
    Inventor: KIDS II, INC.
  • Patent number: 8490227
    Abstract: Play yards and methods of operating the same. An example includes a lower frame having a collapsed position and an erected position; an upper frame having a collapsed position and an erected position; and a plurality of posts joining the upper frame and the lower frame. The upper frame has a rounded rectangular shape when in the erected position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Kolcraft Enterprises
    Inventor: Damon Oliver Casati Troutman
  • Patent number: 8474071
    Abstract: A self-deployable device (1) for a child, comprising an arcuate structure (110, 120) capable of supporting in the deployed state at least one wall (20) made of flexible material defining a space for receiving a child, and at least one stiffener bar (200, 201) to withstand bearing against the arcuate structure. Just one (210, 211) of the two ends of the bar is secured to the arcuate structure by a fixed connection, such that said bar is able to remain connected to the arcuate structure when said structure passes from the folded-up state to the deployed state and/or vice versa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Serpolet
    Inventors: Jérôme Tricault, Emmanuel Sordoillet
  • Publication number: 20130160205
    Abstract: A playyard includes a collapsible frame having a rail support adapted to support a playyard floor and a playyard top rail. The playyard top rail includes a left rail segment and a right rail segment. The left rail segment and the right rail segment move relative to one another from an inline use position to a folded-storage position when the playyard is collapsed for storage or transportation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: Cosco Management, Inc.
    Inventor: Cosco Management, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8458829
    Abstract: A child enclosure apparatus that includes a hub assembly, a base assembly having four base legs in an X-shaped configuration, a side structure having four side posts, an upper assembly having four pairs of upper arms with each pair connected with medial latch connectors, lower corner assemblies, each having a pair of plates that are pivotally mounted to a side post and a pair of base legs, upper corner assemblies, each having two pair of plates that are configured at a right angle to each other, and cables extending from the base assemblies, through the side posts and being connected to the upper arms and to the latch connectors. The enclosure apparatus is operated by linear movement of the hub assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Thorley Industries LLC
    Inventors: Henry F. Thorne, Robert D. Daley
  • Patent number: 8458828
    Abstract: A foldable crib movable between a folded position and an open position is disclosed. The foldable crib comprises a first crib end; a second crib end; a first connecting member joining the first end to the second end, wherein the first connecting member is configured to be foldable; and a second connecting member joining the first end to the second end, wherein the second connecting member is configured to be foldable. When the crib is in an open position, the first connecting member and the second connecting member are generally unfolded. When the crib is in a folded position, the first connecting member and the second connecting member are folded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: iLinko Ltd.
    Inventor: Jon Christopher Lake
  • Patent number: 8424131
    Abstract: Bassinet assemblies and related methods are disclosed. An example bassinet assembly includes an upper frame, a first support arm and a second support arm coupled to the upper frame and a floorboard coupled or adjacent to the first support arm and the second support arm. The example bassinet assembly also includes a support liner coupled between the floorboard and the upper frame and a cover disposed over at least a portion of each of the upper frame, the support liner and the floorboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Kolcraft Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin S. Thomsen, Traci J. Barron, Marisa A. Williams
  • Patent number: 8407832
    Abstract: An infant support structure with a collapsible frame is disclosed. In one embodiment, the infant support structure includes a frame with a coupling or 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: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventor: Seth Galley
  • Publication number: 20130074257
    Abstract: A folding playpen or play yard frame and/or a locking hinge mechanism for a folding playpen or play yard frame of the type having tubular rails for supporting sides and a floor of the playpen or play yard. The locking hinge mechanism includes a housing and a lock assembly movably mounted to the housing. The lock assembly is pivotally attached to proximal portions of the tubular rails for locking and unlocking the rails relative to the housing. The lock assembly and housing are configured and adapted to require the locking hinge assembly to be lifted to effect limited relative motion between the housing and the proximal portions of the tubular rails prior to unlocking the lock assembly and permitting greater relative motion between the housing and proximal portions of the tubular rails. This provides greater safety against the hinge accidentally being folded or being folded by a child.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Applicant: KIDS II, INC.
    Inventors: Mark Mendes, Chen Er-Jui
  • Patent number: 8402982
    Abstract: A modular outdoor playpen apparatus including a room-sized enclosure, having an area in a range of 10 square feet to 20 square feet, the enclosure having a cushioned bottom wall, an open top, four side panels releasably hingedly attached to each other, a unitary cushioned padding removably disposed over all of the entire inner walls of the side panels, and a padded covering removably disposed over the bottom wall between the side panels. The apparatus also provides a canopy that attaches to the cushioned padding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Inventor: Hinda A. Mohamed