COPYRIGHT NOTICE

[0001] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0001] This disclosure relates generally to a child carrier and relates specifically to child carriers worn by adults. Additionally, the disclosure describes and enables improved child carriers addressing child weight distribution, child comfort and safety, modularity, ease of use and child entertainment.

BACKGROUND

[0002] A study by the Office on Child Abuse and Neglect, U.S. Children's Bureau by Jeffrey Rosenberg, Jeffrey Wilcox and W. Bradford, published in 2006 has shown that children with involved, caring parents have better educational outcomes. In addition, a number of studies suggest that parents who are involved, nurturing, and playful with their infants have children with higher IQs, as well as better linguistic and cognitive capacities. Toddlers with involved fathers go on to start school with higher levels of academic readiness. They are more patient and may handle the stresses and frustrations associated with schooling more readily than children with less involved fathers.

[0003] Even from birth, children who have an involved parent are more likely to be emotionally secure, be confident to explore their surroundings, and, as they grow older, have better social connections with peers. These children also are less likely to get in trouble at home, school, or in the neighborhood. Infants who receive high levels of affection from their fathers (e.g., babies whose fathers respond quickly to their cries and who play together) are more securely attached; that is, they may explore their environment comfortably when a parent is nearby and may readily accept comfort from their parent after a brief separation. A number of studies suggest they also are more sociable and popular with other children throughout early childhood. [0004] One study of school-aged children found that children with good relationships with a parent were less likely to experience depression, to exhibit disruptive behavior, or to lie and were more likely to exhibit pro-social behavior. This same study found that boys with an involved parent had fewer school behavior problems and that girls had stronger self- esteem. In addition, numerous studies have found that children who live with their fathers are more likely to have good physical and emotional health, to achieve academically, and to avoid drugs, violence, and delinquent behavior.

[0005] Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung argued that involved parents are very important to a child's development of identity. In particular, in his book Absent Fathers, Lost Sons, Canadian Jungian analyst Guy Corneau writes that the presence of the father's body during the son's developmental phases is integral in the son developing a positive sense of self as masculine. Corneau also argues that if the son does not develop positively towards the father's male body, then the son runs the risk of developing negatively towards all bodies. There is ample evidence that getting parents involved in the childrearing process provides significant and lasting benefits to the child and society as a whole.

[0006] Prior approaches to child carriers have utility but generally do not focus on the health, comfort and entertainment of the child. Many carriers provide insufficient support to a child's legs and hips. They also often lack structure or mechanism for comforting the child or creating a positive environment. Prior approaches also lacked certain other utility which facilitates a positive experience for the parent or caregiver.

[0007] Accordingly, there exists a need for a child carrier to include structure which both addresses the health and comfort of the child. There is also a need for a carrier which is appealing to both genders of caregivers thereby promoting use, and includes features which address a modern lifestyle. The present disclosure addresses these and other needs.

SUMMARY

[0008] Briefly and in general terms, the present disclosure is directed towards a modular carrier assembly that incorporates structure addressing the health, comfort and

entertainment of a baby or young child to be carried. In one approach, the modular carrier assembly for a child includes a vest portion, a baby carrier assembly attached to the front apron of the vest portion, and a backpack assembly attached to the back apron of the vest portion. The vest portion includes a pair of spaced shoulder straps, a front apron, and a back apron. The baby carrier assembly has a receiver portion with a width sufficient to support the child's hips. Additionally, the backpack assembly counterbalances the baby carrier assembly, thereby offsetting at least a portion of the baby carrier assembly weight with the backpack assembly weight and facilitating ease of operation by a wearer of the modular carrier assembly.

[0009] The modular carrier is adapted to maintain all of the necessary comfort and safety features of the more traditional child carriers. In addition, new features and capabilities have been added that enable a more modularized child carrier, increasing the safety and functionality of the child carrier and extending its usefulness as the child develops.

[0010] In one aspect of the modular carrier assembly, the weight of the backpack assembly offsets the weight of the baby carrier assembly, thereby facilitating improved weight distribution for a wearer of the modular carrier assembly. In some embodiments, the position of the backpack assembly on the back apron is adjustable to improve the counterbalancing of the weight of the baby carrier assembly and the weight of the backpack assembly.

[0011] Both the baby carrier and backpack assemblies may be permanently or removably attached to the vest portion. Additionally, in some embodiments, the baby carrier assembly is reversible on the vest portion to enable the baby carrier assembly to position a baby inwards or outwards. Continuing, in some embodiments the backpack assembly is removable from the vest portion and interchangeable with other backpack assemblies of differing sizes that are attachable to the back apron of the vest portion.

Furthermore, in some embodiments the backpack assembly is configured to function as a diaper bag when removed from the back apron of the vest portion. [0012] According to one aspect, a disclosed embodiment provides a lightweight modular carrier assembly that is both strong and comfortable for both the child and the wearer of the carrier and has specific features that are designed to appeal to parents. In another aspect, a disclosed embodiment uses the MOLLE modular system on the front and back of the child carrier, allowing the wearer to customize attachments and accessories to the front and back of the child carrier, such as backpacks, bottle holders, wipes, and diaper holders. In one embodiment, the MOLLE system includes a plurality of rows of looped structures spanning a width of the vest portion. In still another aspect, a disclosed embodiment utilizes a ventilated chest and back panel of the vest portion to increase the comfort of the child and the wearer. In yet another aspect, a disclosed embodiment utilizes a removable and washable child carrier lining attached with hook and loop fasteners. In another embodiment, the child carrier lining is attached using hook and loop fasteners as well as snaps. In some embodiments, the snaps are foam-covered snaps to protect the child from contact with the attachment mechanism.

[0013] Another disclosed embodiment of the modular carrier assembly utilizes a removable and washable child carrier lining containing a pouch for a removable child entertainment device, including but not limited to, a smart phone or electronic tablet device. In another aspect, this disclosed embodiment utilizes a removable and washable child carrier lining that contains removable, foam-covered speakers used to sooth or entertain the child. In still another aspect, a disclosed embodiment utilizes an electrical vibrating motor to help the child to fall asleep.

[0014] These and other aspects of the disclosed embodiments are attained by a modular carrier assembly that is worn by an adult to transport a child in a hands and arms free manner. The modular carrier assembly includes a vest portion with front and back aprons and a pair of spaced shoulder straps. Attached to the front apron is a baby carrier. The modular carrier assembly includes a receiver portion having a width to provide support underneath a child's legs. In this manner, the receiver portion of the carrier is adjustable in width to reduce hip dysplasia. Further, attached to the rear apron is a backpack assembly.

[0015] In further embodiments, the modular carrier assembly may include one or more of a white noise machine, a vibrator, and an entertainment panel. Additionally, various pockets and straps may also be included for receiving or attaching pacifiers, cell phones or structure is provided to attach such assemblies to a tether. In another aspect of the modular carrier assembly, liners are further provided to absorb sweat or other bodily fluids.

Structure is also provided to facilitate ventilation. Hook and loop fasteners as well as snaps may also be used between various structures of the modular carrier assembly, such as between an ultra-soft liner and the carrier.

[0016] In one particular embodiment, the assembly may include a modular lightweight load carrying system. Male and female buckles may be supported by this system to attach structure to the vest portion, such as removable carrier systems and backpack assemblies, or to secure the vest portion about the wearer.

[0017] Other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the disclosed embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] FIG. 1 is a front view, depicting one embodiment of a modular child carrier;

[0019] FIG. 2 is a back view, depicting the modular child carrier of FIG. 1 with a backpack assembly attached;

[0020] FIG. 3A is a perspective view, depicting a conventional child carrier;

[0021] FIG. 3B is a front view, depicting the modular child carrier of FIG. 1 with a child supported by the modular child carrier of FIG. 1 ;

[0022] FIG. 4A is a front view, depicting the modular child carrier of FIG. 1 with a baby hood;

[0023] FIG. 4B is a front view, depicting the assembly of FIG. 4A with the baby hood fully deployed;

[0024] FIG. 5 illustrates a backpack assembly which is removed from the modular child carrier;

[0025] FIG. 6 is a back view, depicting the modular child carrier with the backpack assembly removed;

[0026] FIG. 7 is a front view, depicting another embodiment of a module child carrier;

[0027] FIG. 8 is a side view, depicting the carrier of FIG. 7;

[0028] FIG. 9 is an exploded view, depicting a removable baby carrier;

[0029] FIG. 10 is a first view, depicting a first step in attaching the baby carrier of FIG. 9 to a vest of a carrier assembly;

[0030] FIG. 11 is a front view, depicting a second step of attaching the baby carrier to a carrier assembly; and

[0031] FIG. 12 is a front view, depicting the baby carrier attached to the carrier assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] A modular, customizable carrier assembly for a baby or young child is described. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known materials, structures, and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure the understanding of this description.

[0033] The terms, "for example," "e.g.," "in one/another aspect," "in one/another scenario," "in one/another version," "in some configurations," "in some implementations," "preferably," "usually," "typically," "may," and "optionally," as used herein, are intended to be used to introduce non-limiting embodiments. Unless expressly stated otherwise, while certain references are made to certain example system components or services, other components and services may be used as well and/or the example components may be combined into fewer components and/or divided into further components.

[0034] Turning now to the drawings, which are included by way of example and not limitation, the present disclosure is directed towards a modular, customizable carrier assembly 100 for a baby or young child. As shown in FIGS. 1-2, the modular carrier assembly 100 includes a vest 102 having a front apron 104 and a back apron 106. A baby carrier assembly 130 may be permanently or removably attached to the front apron 104 of the vest 102. A backpack assembly 140 may be permanently or removably attached to the back apron 106 of the vest 102. The modular carrier assembly 100 is made from durable, lightweight materials. Channeled air mesh material 105 is employed on both the front and back of the vest 102 for enhanced ventilation to increase comfort for both the child and wearer.

[0035] Further, the vest 102 is sized and shaped for the comfort of both the child and the wearer. A secure adjustable fit to a wearer's torso is provided by both nylon webbing with hook and loop fasteners 120 positioned at the shoulders and adjustable straps 128 with connector assemblies positioned about a waist. In other embodiments, the secure adjustable fit may be made with any combination of hook and loop fasteners, adjustable straps, snaps, pull ties, or other known fasteners. In one aspect of the modular carrier assembly 100, the weight of the backpack assembly 140 counterbalances the weight of the baby carrier assembly 130, thereby facilitating improved weight distribution for a wearer of the modular carrier assembly. In this manner, the counterbalancing of the weight of the baby carrier assembly 130 with the weight of the backpack assembly 140 offsets at least a portion of the baby carrier assembly weight with the backpack assembly weight. In some embodiments, the modular carrier assembly 100 is configured such that the weight of the backpack assembly 140 offsets only a portion of the weight of the baby carrier assembly 130 (and included baby). In other embodiments, the modular carrier assembly 100 is configured such that the weight of the backpack assembly 140 offsets all or substantially all of the weight of the baby carrier assembly 130 (and included baby).

[0036] In some embodiments, the position of the backpack assembly 140 on the back apron 106 is adjustable to improve the counterbalancing of the weight of the baby carrier assembly 130 and the weight of the backpack assembly 140 on the modular carrier assembly 100. Thus, the weight is more distributed evenly on a wearer's shoulders due to the positioning of the weight of the baby carrier assembly 130 and the positioning of the weight of the backpack assembly 140 (e.g., the positioning of the weight of the backpack assembly 140 assists in leveraging the weight of the baby carrier assembly 130 and included baby). By using this counterbalancing/offsetting technique with the modular carrier assembly 100, which results in the weight being more distributed evenly on a wearer's shoulders, this improved load distribution enables better posture to be maintained by the wearer, as well as reducing back strain and related injuries.

[0037] In this regard, buckles (female 124, male 122) provide adjustments to lengths of straps 128, and snap fit connectors provide a lockable connection between strap portions. A secure fit of the vest 102 about a torso of a wearer allows total freedom of arm movement as well as full range of motion, that is, an ability of the wearer to safely bend over as the child is held snug against the wearer's chest. In one embodiment, the front portion 104 of the vest 102 extends three quarters of the way down a wearer's torso to enable sufficient and desired mobility and ventilation. In some embodiments, the front portion 104 of the vest 102 does not extend to the wearer's waist line (i.e., the front portion 104 of the vest 102 ends above the wearer's belt line).

[0038] A baby carrier assembly 130 may be permanently or removably attached to a front portion 104 of the vest 102. A backpack assembly 140 may similarly be permanently or removably attached to a back portion 106 of the vest 102. Additionally, in some embodiments, the baby carrier assembly 130 is reversible on the vest 102 to enable the baby carrier assembly 130 to position a baby inwards or outwards. This reversibility enables the baby carrier assembly 130 to have a longer useful lifespan since young infants typically prefer to face inward towards the wearer for comfort, while older infants and toddlers typically prefer to face outward in front of the wearer so they may see in the direction that the wearer is walking.

[0039] Continuing, in some embodiments the backpack assembly is removable from the vest 102 and interchangeable with other backpack assemblies of differing sizes that are attachable to the back apron of the vest 102. By configuring multiple backpack assemblies of differing sizes that are all interchangeably attachable to the back apron of the vest 102, the carrier assembly enables the wearer to prepare for outings of different packing requirements, thereby increasing the functionality and usefulness of the modular carrier assembly 100.

[0040] Furthermore, in some embodiments the backpack assembly 140 is configured to function as a diaper bag when removed from the back apron 106 of the vest 102. In this regard, the backpack assembly 140 is configured to include diaper bag style handles and/or a singular shoulder strap, in addition to or instead of standard backpack style dual rear shoulder straps. This enables the wearer of the modular carrier assembly 100 to only have to pack the modular carrier assembly for an outing (and not an additional diaper bag). When the wearer reaches a destination (e.g., park, activity center, or the like), they may simply take the child out of the modular carrier assembly 100 and detach their diaper bag (i.e., backpack assembly) from the back apron 106 of the modular carrier assembly.

[0041] The modular carrier assembly 100 may be removed and attached over the back of a chair, for example, when the parents are out to dinner or simply at their kitchen table at home. This allows the parent not to disrupt a child that has fallen asleep in the modular carrier assembly 100 by enabling the wearer of the modular carrier assembly to remove it and secure the modular carrier assembly and sleeping child to a chair. This functionality of the modular carrier assembly 100 prevents the sleeping child from having to be awakened in order to place the sleeping child in a high chair. Additionally, this functionality of the modular carrier assembly 100 provides a safe place for the child when a high chair is not available. [0042] The modular carrier assembly 100 is further customizable with attachments and accessories to both the front apron 104 and back apron 106. In some embodiments, the modular carrier assembly 100 includes pockets 137 that are closeable using a zipper, snaps, hook and loop fasteners, or other known fastening techniques. Additional pockets may be included for receiving a bottle, wipes, or other products. Moreover, the modular carrier assembly 100 may include elastic cords 151 for connecting various important items such as a pacifier (or toy) 152. The elastic cords 151 may connect to the modular carrier assembly 100 by using the D-loop attachments 150.

[0043] The baby carrier assembly 130 is sized and shaped to comfortably and safely receive and securely hold a child against the wearer's torso. With reference to FIGS. 3A- 3B, there is shown a comparison between a conventional child carrier 200, and the modular carrier assembly 100 for a baby or young child of the present disclosure. In prior approaches (FIG. 3A), the child is loosely held by the conventional carrier 200, and little thought is given to adequate supporting the anatomy of the child. In modular carrier assembly 100 of the present disclosure (FIG. 3B), a wearer of the modular carrier assembly is able to bend and move with the child being held in a more secure manner. The modular carrier assembly 100 also allows for complete hands free movement.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 3B, the presently disclosed modular carrier assembly 100 includes openings designed to support not only the neck and shoulders of a child, but the hip and legs as well. In this regard, a bottom portion 132 of the baby carrier assembly 130 has a width sufficient to support a child's bottom, as well as support the hips of the child. Thus, any stresses which could lead to the risk of dysplasia are avoided. In certain approaches, it may be desirable to provide mechanisms or means to adjust a width of the bottom portion 132 so as to provide sufficient support for a growing child.

[0045] Additional comfort and customization is provided by adjustable straps attaching the baby carrier assembly 130 to the vest 102. For example, upper strap assembly 134 may be loosened to facilitate feeding of a child while it is held within the baby carrier assembly 130. Lower strap assemblies 136 may also be adjusted as needed, and to accommodate the child's size and comfort. Further, a removable quilted liner 138 may be provided and sized and shaped to form a comfortable interior of the baby carrier assembly 130. This liner may be formed from absorbable material and be removed for washing. [0046] With reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B, one of a number of features of the modular carrier assembly 100 is depicted. Here, in one particular embodiment, a pocket 137 is adapted to hold a deployable baby hood 220. The hood assembly 220 may be used to shield the child from sun, wind, rain, or other environmental factors, as well as provide additional comfort/shade during sleep. The hood 220 is conveniently connected to be used as desired and stored away when not used. A hook attachment 222 may be used to hold the hood assembly 220 in a deployed configuration. In other embodiments, straps, snaps, hook and loop fasteners, or other known attachment mechanisms may also be used in addition to or instead of the hook attachment 222.

[0047] Other useful structures and features are also included in the carrier assembly. In some embodiments, an entertainment panel with light-up features is incorporated within the vest 102 for viewing and interaction by a child. Built-in speakers and phone or MP3 attachments, Wi-Fi connections or activity sensory devices are also included in the modular carrier assembly 100, as is a vibrator and/or a white noise machine for facilitating sleep.

[0048] Moreover, straps are included for attaching the modular carrier assembly 100 to a chair, thereby enabling a wearer of the modular carrier assembly to remove the modular carrier assembly from their torso and secure the modular carrier assembly (and child) to a chair. In this manner, a child that has fallen asleep while being carried in the modular carrier assembly 100 may potentially be able to remain in the modular carrier assembly as it is removed and secured to a chair, thereby allowing the child to continue sleeping without requiring an additional piece of baby equipment.

[0049] In some embodiments, the modular carrier assembly 100 includes pockets for wallets, drinks, and cell phones. Pathway or safety lights are additional features which may be included in various approaches to the modular carrier assembly 100. Further, a magnet or other attachment mechanisms may be included to change or add color panels to the carrier, or attach sports or other logos or child covers or blankets. Workout weights and also pillow/wedges for child comfort may also be added to the modular carrier assembly 100.

[0050] Turning now to FIGS. 5 and 6, features of the back apron 106 of the modular carrier assembly 100 are presented. As stated above, the backpack assembly 140 may be permanently or removably attached to the vest 102. In FIGS. 5 and 6, the backpack assembly 140 is configured to be removably attached to the vest 102. The backpack assembly 140 may include various pockets 142, 144 which may be sealed by a zipper 146 or other closing means. Further the backpack assembly 140 may be attached to the vest 102 using various approaches such as by way of adjustable strap attachments 148 and rectangular loops 149.

[0051] In one particular non-limiting embodiment shown in FIGS. 7-12, a modular, customizable child carrier system 300 includes a vest 302 embodying a modular lightweight load-carrying equipment (MOLLE) system forming one or both of front portion 304 and back portion 306 of the vest 302. A channeled air-mesh construction or 1000D Cordura® may be employed on one or both sides of the vest 302. The MOLLE system further includes a plurality of rows of looped structures 308 spanning the vest width, and overlaying the channeled air-mesh construction. Moreover, various strap assemblies 320 and/or buckles 310 are also again provided as a way of conveniently and comfortably adjusting the vest 302 to a wearer. In particular, a combination of 1000D Cordura® and Nylon webbing creates a reinforced, air-mesh structure that defines the shoulder straps and other structures. In another embodiment, Hypalon may be employed instead of or in addition to the Cordura® and/or Nylon webbing. As discussed above, channeled air mesh material 305 is employed on both the front and back of the vest 302 for enhanced ventilation to increase comfort for both the child and wearer. Small pockets 312 may also be provided in waist straps.

[0052] With specific reference to FIGS. 9-1 1, in this approach, the child carrier system 300 includes a child carrier assembly 330 that attaches to the front portion 304 of the vest 302. Child carrier assembly 330 includes an outer foldable panel 332, including a perforated semi-rigid plate 334 that connects with the child carrier assembly 330. An inner foldable, ultra soft and absorbent liner 333 is also included in some embodiments of the child carrier assembly 330. This inner liner 333 provides extra comfort and may be removed for washing from the vest 302. In one embodiment, the liner 333 is a hex-quilted ultra-soft liner. Hook and loop fasteners, as well as snaps, may be used to hold the liner in place.

[0053] In one aspect of the child carrier system 300, the removable, washable liner contains a pouch for a removable child entertainment device, including but not limited to, a smart phone or electronic tablet device. In another aspect of the child carrier system 300, the removable, washable liner contains removable, foam-covered speakers that are used to sooth or entertain the child. In still another aspect of the child carrier system 300, the removable, washable liner contains a vibrating motor to help the child to fall asleep.

[0054] Additionally, the modular functionality of the child carrier system 300 provides the ability for entertainment devices to be changed as a baby grows into a toddler, and then into a young child. Entertainment devices that provide blinking lights and sounds may be attached to the child carrier system 300 to entertain a baby, but then as the child matures the ability of the child carrier system 300 to house an entertainment panel or phone allows the child to watch a program, listen to music, or the like.

[0055] Further, in some embodiments the straps 335 may be threaded through the looped structure 308 of the MOLLE system to attach the child carrier assembly 330 to the vest 302 of the child carrier system 300 (See FIGS. 10 and 1 1). Terminal ends of the straps 335 are equipped with buckle attachments 336 for connecting with mating buckle structure 337 provided on an underside of the outer panel 332. Tension straps 338 are further provided to secure a lower portion the carrier assembly 330 in place.

[0056] To attach the disclosed modular, customization child carrier system 300 to a wearer, one side of the vest 302 is clipped together, and the child carrier system is placed up and over the shoulders of the wearer. Next, ensure that both shoulder straps are secure. Thereafter, the hip belt is closed and tightened on both sides of the wearer's torso. One side of the child carrier system 330 (either left or right) is then secured to the vest 302 while the other side of the child carrier system 330 is left open for receiving a child. Once the child is securely buckled in, each of the straps are tightened to achieve a secure hold on the child.

[0057] Accordingly, a modular, customizable child carrier system 300 which addresses both the health and comfort of a child has been disclosed. In some embodiments, the disclosed child carrier system 300 is configured to appeal to both genders and includes many features desirable to the modern caregiver. In other embodiments, the disclosed child carrier system 300 is configured to appeal to the male gender wearer with a more rugged, tactile or outdoorsmen-type appearance.

[0058] Thus, it will be apparent from the foregoing that, while particular forms of the disclosure have been illustrated and described, various modifications may be made without parting from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. [0059] Furthermore, the various embodiments described above are provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed to limit the invention. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize various modifications and changes that may be made to the disclosed invention without following the example embodiments and applications illustrated and described herein, and without departing from the true spirit and scope of the claimed disclosed, which is set forth in the following claims.