INFANT SLEEP STRUCTURE ROCKING DEVICE AND STRETCHER ASSEMBLY

A rocking device attachable to an infant sleep structure is disclosed. The rocking device includes a main body having a curved rocking edge. The rocking device also includes an actuator mounted on the main body. The rocking device further includes at least one stabilizing leg mounted on the main body. The actuator includes arms connecting to the at least one stabilizing leg. When in use, the actuator is configured to actuate the at least one stabilizing leg at a deployed position to prevent the rocking device from rocking, or to actuate the at least one stabilizing leg at a non-deployed position to permit rocking. Also a stretcher assembly for stretching a play yard mattress is disclosed. The stretcher assembly includes an adjustment sleeve. The adjustment sleeve is configured to deploy the stretcher sleeve to an expanded state or a stretched state.

FIELD

This disclosure relates generally to an infant sleep structure. More specifically, the disclosure relates to rocking devices attachable to an infant sleep structure, and a stretcher assembly for stretching a mattress of the infant sleep structure.

BACKGROUND

Parents have long sought ways to comfort and soothe their infants or children in an attempt to get them to sleep faster. Motions such as rocking and swaying have proven effective in helping an infant or a child nod off more quickly.

SUMMARY

The rocking devices described herein relate to a means of permitting a soothing rocking and/or swaying motion for an infant or a child sleeping in a bed or other sleep structure in which an infant may be sleeping. The rocking devices are attachable to each end of an infant sleep structure in which an infant may sleep, which infant sleep structure does not normally have rocking capability. By attaching the rocking devices to the infant sleep structure, the infant sleep structure is provided with rocking capability. The infant sleep structure can be an infant play yard or playpen, a bassinet, a Moses basket, a carry cot, a crib or any other infant structure without rocking capability and for which a caregiver may wish to provide rocking capability. In some embodiments, the infant sleep structure may be portable.

In one embodiment, each of the rocking devices includes a rocking means that is removably attachable to an infant sleep structure to permit soothing rocking and/or swaying motion of the infant sleep structure, a selectively deployable stabilizing means to prevent rocking of the infant sleep structure when desired, and a means to removably connect the rocking means to the infant sleep structure. In another embodiment, the rocking devices can be built into or be integrally formed with the infant sleep structure, rather than being removably attachable.

In one embodiment, each rocking means can include a main rocker body with a curved floor-engaging surface that in use rests on the floor to permit the rocking motion. In one embodiment, the selectively deployable stabilizing means can include an actuator and at least one stabilizing leg. In one embodiment, the means to removably connect the rocking means to the infant sleep structure can be at least one connector.

Two of the rocking devices described herein are connected to two opposing sides or ends of the infant sleep structure. The rocking devices can be substantially identical to one another.

In one embodiment, a rocking device attachable to an infant sleep structure is disclosed. The rocking device includes a main body having a curved rocking edge. The rocking device also includes at least one connector mounted on the main body and configured to removably mount the rocking device to the infant sleep structure. The rocking device further includes an actuator mounted on the main body. Also the rocking device includes at least one stabilizing leg mounted on the main body and connected to the actuator. The at least one stabilizing leg has a non-deployed position that permits rocking of the rocking device, and a deployed position that prevents rocking of the rocking device. The actuator is connected to the at least one stabilizing leg to actuate the at least one stabilizing leg between the non-deployed position and the deployed position.

In one embodiment, a stretcher assembly for stretching a play yard mattress is disclosed. The stretcher assembly includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion and the second portion are connected to one another by a hinge to allow folding of the stretcher assembly. The first portion includes a sleeve that is movable relative to the second portion between an unlocked position and a locked position. At the locked position the sleeve is positioned closer to the second portion than at the unlocked position. At the locked position, the sleeve covers the hinge. The stretcher assembly also includes a lock mechanism on the second portion that releasably locks the sleeve at the locked position.

Other features and aspects will become apparent by consideration of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.

Like reference numbers represent like parts throughout.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The rocking devices disclosed herein can turn an infant sleep structure into an infant rocker. The rocking devices can increase the functionality of the infant sleep structure and provide parents with new options for use of the infant sleep structure. When an infant sleep structure is used for napping, some children find it difficult to fall asleep without movement. The rocking devices described herein can allow the option for gently rocking the child to sleep when the child is on the infant sleep structure.

In one embodiment, the rocking devices described herein are add-on devices that are removably attachable to opposite ends or opposite sides of an infant sleep structure that does not normally have rocking capability. When attached, the rocking devices provide the infant sleep structure with rocking capability.

FIG. 1is a perspective view showing an infant sleep structure and one of the rocking devices described herein attached to an end of the infant sleep structure (an identical or similar rocking device (visible inFIG. 5) is attached to the opposite end of the infant sleep structure).

The rocking device10includes a main body12. The main body12has a curved rocking edge14that during use rests on the floor to permit a soothing rocking and/or swaying motion of the infant sleep structure16. It will be appreciated that the curve of the curved rocking edge14can be an arc of a circular sector or any other suitable curve that permits a soothing rocking and/or swaying motion.

In one embodiment, as illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 5, the main body12has a circular-sector-like shape with a central angle θ that is less than 180 degrees. It will be appreciated that the central angle can be any suitable degrees provided that the shape of the main body12can be designed so that the rocking device10not only permits a soothing rocking and/or swaying motion, but also minimizes the amount of material used for the main body12(thus reducing the weight of the rocking device10and reducing the overall cost). The material of the main body12of the rocking device10can be wood, metal, plastic, rubber or any suitable material that allows the main body12to support the weight of the infant sleep structure16to which the rocking device10connects.

In one embodiment, the curved rocking edge14of the main body12can be made of material that is the same as the main body12. In another embodiment, the curved rocking edge14of the main body12can be made of material that is different from the main body12. For example, the curved rocking edge14can be formed by a layer or bead of material that is fixed to the curved edge of the main body12. It will be appreciated that the material of the curved rocking edge14of the main body12is selected to prevent scratching of the floor, for example hardwood, tile, linoleum or the like, or other surface that the curved rocking edge14is engaged with. It will also be appreciated that the material of the curved rocking edge14of the main body12can be selected to prevent wear and tear over time when the rocking device10is placed on, for example, a tiled floor or a floor with a rough surface. It will further be appreciated that the material of the curved rocking edge14of the main body12can reduce friction and/or provide a smooth motion when the rocking device10is used on, for example, a carpeted floor.

The rocking device10further includes at least one stabilizing leg20that is selectively deployable between a retracted or non-deployed position (shown inFIGS. 1 and 5) and an extended or deployed position (shown inFIG. 2), and an actuator22connected to the at least one stabilizing leg20that controls actuation of the stabilizing leg20between the non-deployed and deployed positions.FIG. 2illustrates two of the stabilizing legs20, each of which is selectively deployable between the non-deployed and deployed positions. When the stabilizing legs20are actuated to the deployed position, the stabilizing legs20prevent the rocking device10, and the infant sleep structure16, from rocking. It will be appreciated that the actuator22and the stabilizing legs20can be integrated as a single piece or be separate components.

As shown inFIG. 1, the rocking device10is attached to one side or end of the infant sleep structure16and is shown with the stabilizing legs20retracted. In such embodiment, the actuator22for actuating the stabilizing legs20is at uppermost or retracted position. Only one of the rocking devices10at one end/side of the infant sleep structure16is visible inFIG. 1, it being understood that a similar or identical rocking device10is disposed at the opposite end/side of the infant sleep structure16as shown inFIG. 5.

Referring toFIGS. 1 and 5, the main body12has a groove24that extends in a vertical direction. The actuator22is mounted in the groove24and is slidable within the groove24between the retracted position shown inFIGS. 1 and 5and a deployed position shown inFIG. 2. The actuator22is located at an upper position in the groove24at the retracted position of the actuator22, and located at a lower position in the groove24at the deployed position of the actuator22. The actuator22can be a handle that extends in a direction perpendicular to the first side26of the main body12. The actuator22also has two arms28a,28bmovably connected thereto, and the stabilizing legs20are mounted at the ends of the arm28a,28b. The proximal ends of the two arms28a,28bconnect to the actuator22. Each of the two arms28a,28bis movable at the proximal end of each arm28a,28babout the axis of the actuator22. The distal end of each arm28a,28bconnects to the corresponding stabilizing leg20.

As shown inFIGS. 1 and 5, when the actuator22is an upper position in the groove24, the two arms28a,28bare disposed at an angle relative to one another and the two stabilizing legs20are retracted by the arms28a,28bto a retracted position such that the two stabilizing legs20are retracted so that they do not project beyond the curved rocking edge14. In this position, the curved rocking edge14of the main body12can provide a soothing rocking and/or swaying motion to the infant sleep structure16without being impacted by the two stabilizing legs20.

As illustrated inFIG. 2, when the actuator22is moved to a lower position in the groove24, the arms28a,28bmove with the actuator22and move to become generally parallel to each other. The two stabilizing legs20are rotated by the arms28a,28bso that the legs20are generally parallel to the groove24and extend beyond the curved rocking edge14either into engagement with the floor or to a position close to the floor. At this position, because the legs20are engaged with or very near the floor, the two stabilizing legs20prevent all or most rocking motion of the rocking device10.

The material of the actuator22and the stabilizing legs20of the rocking device10can be wood, metal, plastic, rubber or any suitable material that allows the stabilizing legs20to prevent all or most rocking motion of the rocking device10. In one embodiment, the stabilizing legs20can be made of material that is the same as the actuator22. In another embodiment, the stabilizing legs20can be made of material that is different from the actuator22.

It will be appreciated that the material of the stabilizing legs20is selected to prevent scratching of the floor, made of hardwood, tile, linoleum or the like, or other surface that the stabilizing legs20are engaged with when deployed to prevent rocking motion. It will also be appreciated that the material of the stabilizing legs20can be selected to prevent wear and tear over time when the rocking device10is placed on, for example, a tiled floor or a floor with a rough surface.

In one embodiment, the actuator22can be actuated between the positions shown inFIGS. 1 and 2manually using one's foot or hand. In another embodiment, a handle can be attached to the actuator22with the handle extending upwardly toward the top of the infant sleep structure16. Such a handle would permit easier actuation of the actuator22using ones hand without requiring the user to bend or stoop down to reach the actuator22.

In one embodiment, a releasable lock mechanism (not shown) can be provided to retain the actuator22at the upper position and/or at the lower position in the groove24. The lock mechanism can prevent unintentional movement of the actuator22when the actuator is at the upper position or at the lower position in the groove24. In another embodiment, a lock mechanism is not provided; instead, friction can be used to retain the actuator22at the desired positions.

In one embodiment, a biasing mechanism such as a spring (not shown) can be provided that acts on the actuator22. The biasing mechanism can serve to bias the actuator22either toward the upper position shown inFIGS. 1 and 5, or bias the actuator22toward the lower position shown inFIG. 2.

The rocking device10further includes at least one connector30that is configured to removably connect the rocking device10to the infant sleep structure16. The connector(s)30can have any construction suitable for removably connecting the rocking device10to the infant sleep structure16. In the example illustrated inFIG. 3, the rocking device10includes two of the connectors30. The two connectors30are installed on a second side32(the side that is facing the infant sleep structure16to which the rocking device10connects, i.e., a side that is opposite to the first side26) of the main body12. Each of the two connectors30has a substantially half-circular shape with an opening34that is sized to receive a leg36of the infant sleep structure16as seen inFIGS. 4 and 5.

As illustrated inFIG. 5, two of the rocking devices10are attached to opposite ends or opposite sides of the infant sleep structure16. One of the rocking devices10is attached to one side or end of the infant sleep structure16and is shown with stabilizing legs20retracted. In such embodiment, the actuator22for actuating the stabilizing legs20is at the upper position in the groove24or at a retracted position. The identical or similar rocking device10is attached to the opposite end of the infant sleep structure16. Each one of the two rocking devices10includes two of the connectors30. Each of the two connectors30has a substantially half-circular shape with the opening34that is sized to receive the leg36of the infant sleep structure16.

The material of the connectors30of the rocking device10can be metal, plastic, or any suitable material that allows the connectors30to support the weight of the infant sleep structure16to which the rocking device10connects.

In one embodiment, the positions of the connector(s)30may be adjustable in order to accommodate different shapes and sizes of the infant sleep structure16. For example, in one embodiment, the horizontal locations of the connector(s)30on the main body12may be adjustable to accommodate different widths of the infant sleep structure16(i.e., different leg spacing). In another embodiment, the vertical locations of the connector(s)30on the main body12may be adjustable to accommodate different heights (from the bottom of the legs36to the lowest supporting surface of the infant sleep structure16) of the legs36. In another embodiment, both the horizontal locations and the vertical locations of the connector(s)30on the main body12may be adjustable.

In one embodiment, there could be a means (for example, a fastener or adhesive material) for tightening the connectors30to the legs36. In another embodiment, the infant sleep structure16may have wheels or other structures instead of or at the ends of the legs36, in which case the connectors30can be configured to hold the wheels/legs to removably connect the rocking device10to the infant sleep structure16.

FIGS. 6 and 7are end views showing a rocking device100for an infant sleep structure190, according to another embodiment.FIG. 6shows the rocking device100as having a stabilizing structure (e.g., at least one stabilizing leg) that is actuated to an extended or deployed position to prevent rocking of the infant sleep structure190, whileFIG. 7shows the rocking device100with the stabilizing structure actuated to a retracted or non-deployed position that permits rocking of the infant sleep structure190.

As shown inFIGS. 6 and 7, the rocking device100includes a main body105. The main body105can be a curved member such as a pipe or tube. The main body105includes a curved rocking edge110. The curved rocking edge110of the main body105can be designed to permit a soothing rocking and/or swaying motion when engaged with a floor. The rocking device100also includes an actuator115mounted on the main body105. The rocking device100further includes at least one (for example, two) stabilizing leg120mounted on the main body105. The at least one stabilizing leg120has a non-deployed position that permits rocking of the rocking device100, and a deployed position that prevents rocking of the rocking device100. The actuator115includes arms125,130connecting to the at least one stabilizing leg120. When in use, the actuator115is configured to actuate the at least one stabilizing leg120to the deployed position (FIG. 6) to prevent the rocking device100from rocking, or to actuate the at least one stabilizing leg120to the non-deployed position (FIG. 7) to permit rocking.

Also the rocking device100includes at least one (e.g., two) connector135mounted on the main body105. The at least one connector135is configured to removably mount the rocking device100to the infant sleep structure190. It will be appreciated that the infant sleep structure190can be, e.g., the infant sleep structure16ofFIGS. 1-5. The infant sleep structure190includes legs195. It will also be appreciated that the at least one stabilizing leg and the actuator are mounted on a first side of the main body, and the at least one connector is mounted on a second side (opposite to the first side) of the main body.

The curved rocking edge110of the main body105is designed to rest on the floor and permit a soothing rocking and/or swaying motion. It will be appreciated that the curve of the curved rocking edge110can be an arc of a circular sector, an arc of a segment, or any other suitable curve that permits a soothing rocking and/or swaying motion.

The main body105connects to the at least one stabilizing leg120via the at least one connector135. The main body105is rotatable in a clockwise and/or counter-clockwise direction. The actuator115can be used to actuate the rocking device100between the deployed position (shown inFIG. 6) and the non-deployed position (shown inFIG. 7).

The actuator115includes a handle140, a hinge145, and the arms125,130. The handle140is located at and perpendicular to a side150of the actuator115. In one embodiment, the handle140extends perpendicular to a plane formed by the hinge145and the arms125,130. The handle140is configured to allow a user to use his/her foot to actuate the rocking device100between the rocking and the deployed positions thereby eliminating the need for the user to bend down or use his/her hand(s) to actuate the rocking device100. The handle140can have a substantially flat surface so that the handle140can be pressed down and/or pulled up by a user's foot or hand.

In one embodiment, the handle140and the hinge145of the actuator115are integrally formed as one component. The arms125,130are movably connected to the hinge145. The proximal ends of the arms125,130connect to the hinge145. In one embodiment, a middle portion of the hinge145connects to the proximal ends of the arms125,130. Each of the arms125,130is movable at the proximal end of each arm125,130. The distal ends of the arms125,130connect to the at least one stabilizing leg120. In one embodiment, each of the distal ends of the arms125,130connect to a middle portion of the corresponding stabilizing leg120. A first end of the at least one stabilizing leg120fixedly connects to the at least one connector135. The at least one stabilizing leg120is rotatable along an axis at the middle portion of the at least one stabilizing leg120.

In one embodiment, an end of the hinge145fixedly connects to one of the arms125,130. As shown inFIG. 6, at the deployed position, the arms125,130of the actuator115become generally parallel to each other, or are disposed relative to one another at or about a straight angle or the arms are collinear. The at least one stabilizing leg120is rotated by the arms125,130so that the at least one stabilizing leg120is generally perpendicular to the arms125,130, and a second end of the at least one stabilizing leg120extends beyond the curved rocking edge110either into engagement with the floor or to a position close to the floor. In one embodiment, an angle formed between the at least one stabilizing leg120(from the second end opposite to the first end of the at least one stabilizing leg120) and the arms can be greater than a right angle. At this position, because the at least one stabilizing leg120is engaged with or very near the floor, the at least one stabilizing leg120prevents all or most rocking motion of the rocking device100. It will be appreciated that the hinge145can retain the actuator115at the deployed position.

As shown inFIG. 7, at the non-deployed position, the arms125,130are disposed at an angle relative to one another at an angle less than a straight angle. The at least one stabilizing leg120is rotated by the arms125,130so that the at least one stabilizing leg120is retracted to a retracted position so that the at least one stabilizing leg120does not project beyond the curved rocking edge110into engagement with a floor. The at least one stabilizing leg120is disposed above the floor in a retracted position allowing the sleep structure190to rock on the curved rocking edge110of the main body105. At this position, the curved rocking edge110of the main body105can provide a soothing rocking and/or swaying motion to the infant sleep structure190without being impacted by the at least one stabilizing leg120. It will be appreciated that the hinge145can retain the actuator115at the non-deployed position. The movement of the rocking device100between the deployed position and the non-deployed position can be achieved by using one's foot acting on the handle140of the actuator115.

The rocking device100can be made of metal or any other suitable materials. The at least one stabilizing leg120has an end for engaging with the floor. The material of the second end of the at least one stabilizing leg120can be selected to prevent scratching of the floor, made of hardwood, tile, linoleum or the like or other surface that the end is engaged with when the rocking device100is in the deployed position. The material of the curved rocking edge110can be selected to prevent scratching of the floor, made of hardwood, tile, linoleum or the like, or other surface that the curved rocking edge110of the main body105is engaged with. The material of the main body105can be wood, metal, plastic, rubber or any suitable material that allows the main body105to support the weight of the infant sleep structure to which the rocking device100connects.

Referring toFIGS. 6 and 7, only one of the rocking devices100at one end/side of the infant sleep structure190is visible inFIGS. 6 and 7, it being understood that a similar or identical rocking device100is disposed at the opposite end/side of the infant sleep structure190inFIGS. 6 and 7, similar to that shown inFIG. 5.

FIGS. 8 and 9are perspective views showing the connector135of the rocking device ofFIGS. 6 and 7, according to one embodiment.FIG. 8shows the connector135connects to the main body105and the at least one stabilizing leg120.FIG. 9shows the connector135connects to the main body105, the at least one stabilizing leg120, and the infant sleep structure190.

As shown inFIGS. 8 and 9, the connector135includes a lock means for tightening the connector135to the infant sleep structure. The lock means includes a main body175, a holder170, and an extension180. The main body175has a first portion connecting to the main body105. In one embodiment, the first portion of the main body175is a hollow structure that allows the main body105to pass through (or partially pass through) and retains the main body105inside the first portion. The main body175has a second portion connecting to the at least one stabilizing leg120. In one embodiment, a distal end of the second portion of the main body175fixedly connects to the first end of the at least one stabilizing leg120. The second portion of the main body175extends (at a proximal end of the second portion) from a side of the first portion of the main body175and form a gap165between the second portion of the main body175and the holder170. The gap165generally becomes larger from the proximal end to the distal end of the second portion. The holder170extends from an end of the first portion of the main body175. The holder170includes grooves on a top surface of the holder170. The holder170also includes an extension180.

As shown inFIG. 9, the infant sleep structure190includes a leg195, a frame155, and a connect portion160. The infant sleep structure190can also include a pin185.

When in use, the grooves of the holder170match the shapes of the frame155and/or the connect portion160of the infant sleep structure190, and hold the frame155and/or the connect portion160of the infant sleep structure190. The leg195of the infant sleep structure190can partially pass through the gap165and be retained in the gap165. The connect portion160of the infant sleep structure190can have a hole. The extension180of the holder170can have a hole. The pin185can pass through the hole of the connect portion160and the hole of the extension180, and fixedly connects the connector135(and thus the rocking device100) to the infant sleep structure190.

It will be appreciated that the main body175, the holder170, and the extension180of the connector135can be integrated as a single piece or be separate components. The material of the connector135can be wood, metal, plastic, rubber or any suitable material that allows the connector135to support the weight of the infant sleep structure190to which the rocking device100connects.

Referring toFIGS. 8 and 9, only one connector135at one end of the main body105of the rocking device100is visible, it being understood that a similar or identical connector135is disposed at the opposite end of the main body105inFIGS. 8 and 9.

Referring toFIGS. 10-20, a stretcher assembly200disclosed herein is configured to stretch a mattress (hereafter referred to as “play yard mattress”) for an infant sleep structure (for example, the infant sleep structure16ofFIGS. 1-5or the infant sleep structure190ofFIGS. 6-8) in a way that the play yard mattress can be made tauter when the play yard mattress stretches over time. An example of a play yard mattress is described in U.S. 2016/0066705 the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

A comfortable yet air-permeable sleep surface is desirable for an infant to sleep on. If the sleep surface is comfortable, the child may potentially sleep better. A play yard mattress with a comfortable sleep surface can be used for the infant to sleep on. The play yard mattress also needs to be firm and breathable.

Comfort can typically be achieved by using soft materials. However, a soft sleep surface can sometimes be considered dangerous if, for example, the infant rolls to a prone position and buries his/her face into the soft material. Carbon dioxide, trapped by soft bedding materials, can build to lethal levels around the infant's nose and mouth causing suffocation or “positional asphyxia”. A highly air permeable sleep surface can help disperse accumulated carbon dioxide, eliminating or minimize the lethal rebreathing of the carbon dioxide. Using a loosely woven mesh material without any filler material can be preferred to accomplish the goal of dispersing accumulated carbon dioxide. The mesh material needs to be made taut enough to be used as a sleep surface, which requires that the mesh material be stretched across a rigid frame.

The play yard mattress can be made of mesh material/fabric. The play yard mattress can also be made of other breathable fabrics that increase the breathability of the mattress. Using mesh material or other breathable fabrics can create a breathable and light-weight mattress. Mesh material can lower the possibility of accidental suffocation. In addition, if a fluid is spilled on the play yard mattress, the fluid can leak through the mesh and onto the floor, thus aiding in drying of the play yard mattress. In one embodiment, the mesh material can include nylon or polyester screen material or other similar materials.

When in use, the play yard mattress needs to be stretched tight. In one embodiment, the play yard mattress can include a frame that can hold the shape of the play yard mattress. A stretcher assembly disclosed herein can stretch the play yard mattress over the frame in a way that the play yard mattress can be made tauter when the play yard mattress stretches over time. The stretcher assembly can also allow the frame to easily collapse for storage or transportation.

FIGS. 10-20are perspective views showing a stretcher assembly for a play yard mattress for an infant sleep structure.

FIG. 10shows the stretcher assembly200in a stretched (or tightened) state connecting to a play yard mattress300. The stretched state is a state in which either the stretcher assembly200is fully stretched or tightened, or the stretcher assembly200is not fully stretched but the play yard mattress300that connects to the stretcher assembly200is fully stretched or tightened and the force from the play yard mattress300(or a frame of the play yard mattress300) prevents the stretcher assembly200from being further stretched or tightened.FIG. 11is an enlarged partial view of the stretcher assembly200ofFIG. 10.

As shown inFIGS. 10 and 11, the stretcher assembly200includes a first portion280and a second portion285. The first portion280includes a frame connector205, a curved connector210, and a connection bar215. The second portion285includes a frame connector206, a curved connector211, and a connection bar220. The first portion280and the second portion285are connected to one another by a hinge250to allow folding of the stretcher assembly200. The first portion280also includes a sleeve230. The sleeve230is movable relative to the second portion285between an unlocked position and a locked position. The second portion285also includes an adjustment sleeve225that is configured to adjust a length of the second portion285. The two frame connectors205,206connect the stretcher assembly200to a frame of the play yard mattress300. The two frame connectors205,206, the two curved connectors210,211, and the two connection bars215,220are symmetrically located on opposite sides of the hinge250. Each of the two frame connectors205,206, the two curved connectors210,211, and the two connection bars215,220can be a hollow structure such as a pipe or tube.

The play yard mattress300has an upper surface (not shown) and a lower surface320. The play yard mattress300can include a frame305. The frame305can form, for example, a rectangular shape. The frame305has two sides310and two ends315. In one embodiment, at a location at or near the middle of each of the two sides310of the frame305, each of the two frame connectors205,206of the stretcher assembly200can respectively connect to the frame305at the lower surface of the play yard mattress300. Each of the two frame connectors205,206connects to each of the two curved connectors210,211, respectively. Each of the two curved connectors210,211connects to each of the two connection bars215,220, respectively. The two frame connectors205,206are generally perpendicular to the two connection bars215,220. The hinge250connects the two connection bars215,220. The hinge250is configured to allow folding or unfolding of the play yard mattress300.

Referring toFIG. 11, the stretcher assembly200includes a lock mechanism. The lock mechanism includes a lock button235on the second portion285and a lock hole245formed in the sleeve230. The lock button235is located near a proximal end of the connection bar215. The distal end of the connection bar215connects to the curved connector210. The proximal end of the connection bar215connects to a first guide rib255on the second portion285. The first guide rib255can have a substantially flat surface. Two sides of the first guide rib255extend beyond a peripheral surface of the connection bar215. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, only one side of the first guide rib255extends beyond a peripheral surface of the connection bar215. In one embodiment, the proximal end of the connection bar215fixedly connects to a middle portion of the first guide rib255. In one embodiment, the first guide rib255divides the connection bar215into two symmetrical halves in a cross sectional view (not shown). An end of the first guide rib255extends beyond the proximal end of the connection bar215. The end of the first guide rib255movably connects to a first end of the hinge250.

The distal end of the connection bar220connects to the curved connector211. The proximal end of the connection bar220connects to a second guide rib260on the first portion280. The second guide rib260can have a substantially flat surface. Two sides of the second guide rib260extend beyond a peripheral surface of the connection bar220. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, only one side of the second guide rib260extends beyond a peripheral surface of the connection bar220. In one embodiment, the proximal end of the connection bar220fixedly connects to a middle portion of the second guide rib260. In one embodiment, the second guide rib260divides the connection bar220into two symmetrical halves in a cross sectional view (not shown). An end of the second guide rib260extends beyond the proximal end of the connection bar220. The end of the second guide rib260movably connects to a second end of the hinge250.

The connection bar215(and the first guide rib255) is movable at the first end of the hinge250. At the first end of the hinge250, the connection bar215is rotatable along an axis perpendicular to the flat surface of the first guide rib255. The connection bar220(and the second guide rib260) is movable at the second end of the hinge250. At the second end of the hinge250, the connection bar220is rotatable along an axis perpendicular to the flat surface of the second guide rib260.

InFIG. 11, the play yard mattress (not shown) is at an expanded state or a stretched state (the states will be describe later in detail), and the first guide rib255is generally aligned with the second guide rib260in the longitudinal direction of the connection bars215,220. From the configuration ofFIG. 11, when the connection bar215or220is rotated along the axis perpendicular to the flat surface of the first/second guide rib255,260, the first guide rib255is not aligned with the second guide rib260in the longitudinal direction of the connection bars215,220, and the play yard mattress can be folded or loosened.

The sleeve230is a hollow structure that the connection bar220can pass through. The sleeve230includes at least one interior groove. The shape of the at least one interior groove generally matches the shape of the first and second guide ribs255,260, so that the sleeve230can slide along the first and second guide ribs255,260. The at least one interior groove is engageable with the guide rib260on the first portion280and with the guide rib255on the second portion285to guide movement of the sleeve230between the unlocked position and the locked position. In operation, the sleeve230can slide along the connection bar220in the longitudinal direction of the connection bar220. The sleeve230can also rotate along the axis of the connection bar220. When the sleeve230slides toward the second guide rib260, the sleeve230can be rotated so that the side(s) of the second guide rib260can be inserted in the at least one interior groove of the sleeve230(seeFIG. 12). After the side(s) of the second guide rib260are inserted in the at least one interior groove of the sleeve230, the sleeve230can slide toward the first guide rib255(but cannot rotate because of the side(s) of the second guide rib260being inserted in the at least one interior groove), so that the side(s) of the first guide rib255can be inserted in the at least one interior groove of the sleeve230.

A biasing mechanism (e.g., a spring, see270inFIG. 20) is located under the lock button235. The biasing mechanism acts on the lock button235and is configured to bias the lock button235beyond the peripheral surface of the connection bar215. The sleeve230has a lock hole245. The lock mechanism includes the lock button235and the lock hole245. The shape of the lock hole245generally matches the shape of the lock button235so that the lock button235can engage with the lock hole245of the sleeve230at the lock position to prevent the sleeve230from moving. At the locked position, the sleeve230is positioned closer to the second portion285than at the unlocked position. At the locked position, the sleeve230covers the hinge250. The design of the side(s) of the first guide rib255and the second guide rib260ensures an alignment of the lock hole245and the lock button235in the longitudinal direction of the connection bars215,220.

In operation, after the sleeve230passes the first guide rib255and slide towards the lock button235(seeFIG. 17), the lock button235blocks the sleeve230from sliding further (away from the connection bar220). The lock button235can be pressed downward towards an inner of the connection bar215, so that the sleeve230can slide further away from the connection bar220. When the lock hole245is aligned (in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction) with the lock button235, the biasing mechanism270acts on the lock button235and bias the lock button235so that the lock button235passes through the lock hole245. As such, the lock button235engages with the lock hole245of the sleeve230and prevents the sleeve230from moving, and the stretcher assembly200is at the locked position. When the lock button235engages with the sleeve230, the sleeve230covers the hinge250(and the first/second guide rib255,260) and prevents the hinge250from folding the play yard mattress.

It will be appreciated that when the lock button235engages with the lock hole245, even if the lock button235is pressed down again, a mechanism (not shown) inside the sleeve230prevents the sleeve230from sliding further away from the connection bar220. In such case, when the lock button235engages with the lock hole245, if the lock button235is pressed down again, the sleeve230can slide back toward the connection bar220, and the stretcher assembly200is at the unlocked position. The sleeve230is movable relative to the second portion285between the unlocked position and the locked position. The lock button235on the second portion285can releasably lock the sleeve230at the locked position.

It will be appreciated that the as shown inFIG. 11, the first guide rib255and the second guide rib260are fully visible to a user. The full visibility of the first guide rib255and the second guide rib260can indicate that the stretcher assembly200can be folded, e.g., by rotating the connection bar215or220along the axis perpendicular to the flat surface of the first/second guide rib255,260. As such, the play yard mattress that connects to the frame connectors205can be folded or loosened. The full coverage (by the sleeve230) can indicate that the stretcher assembly200cannot be folded, because the sleeve230prevents the connection bar215or220from rotating. As such, the operation can be easy to use and intuitive for the end user (i.e., it is obvious that the operation is correct).

FIG. 12shows the sleeve230sliding and/or rotating (see the arrows) toward the lock button235.FIGS. 13 and 14are cross sectional views of the stretcher assembly200in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the connection bars215,220.

FIG. 13is a cross sectional view of the stretcher assembly200along the lock hole245(see lines13-13inFIG. 12) of the sleeve230when the lock hole245is not yet aligned with the lock button235in the longitudinal direction of the connection bars215,220. In such case, the second guide rib260blocks the sleeve230from sliding further toward the lock button235to cover the second guide rib260, unless the sleeve230is rotated so that the side(s) of the second guide rib260can be inserted in the at least one interior groove of the sleeve230.

FIG. 14is a cross sectional view of the stretcher assembly200along the lock hole245(see line13-13inFIG. 12) of the sleeve230when the lock hole245is aligned with the lock button235in the longitudinal direction of the connection bars (215,220). In such case, the side(s) of the second guide rib260can be inserted in the at least one interior groove of the sleeve230, and the sleeve230can slide further toward the lock button235to cover the first and the second guide ribs255,260.

FIGS. 16 and 17are enlarged partial views of the stretcher assembly200ofFIG. 10. As shown inFIGS. 16 and 17, the stretcher assembly200includes a stop mechanism240that limits movement of the adjustment sleeve225toward the lock mechanism. The stop mechanism is configured to prevent the adjustment sleeve225from moving towards the lock button235. The adjustment sleeve225is a hollow structure that the connection bar215can pass through.

As shown inFIG. 16, the connection bar215includes a threaded portion265. The adjustment sleeve225has an inner threaded portion (not shown) that matches the threaded portion265. In one embodiment, the threaded portion265has male thread (external thread), and the inner threaded portion of the adjustment sleeve225has female thread (internal thread). In another embodiment, the threaded portion265has female thread (internal thread), and the inner threaded portion of the adjustment sleeve225has male thread (external thread). The adjustment sleeve225can be rotated and move toward the lock button235. The stop mechanism240is located at an end of the threaded portion265. There is a space between the stop mechanism240and the lock button235. The stop mechanism240can prevent the adjustment sleeve225from moving further towards the lock button235.

FIG. 18shows a portion of the stretcher assembly200in an expanded state. The expanded state is a state in which the stretcher assembly200expands or unfolds a play yard mattress300that connects to the stretcher assembly but the play yard mattress300is not fully stretched or tightened yet. InFIG. 18, the stretcher assembly200is in an expanded state such that the play yard mattress can be further stretched or tightened (but not fully stretched or tightened yet).

When the adjustment sleeve225is rotated and move toward the lock button235, the length of the second portion285decreases and the paly yard mattress is loosened, and the stretcher assembly200is changed from a stretched state to the expanded state. The stop mechanism240can prevent the adjustment sleeve225from moving further towards the lock button235to avoid under tighten.

FIG. 19shows a portion of the stretcher assembly200in a stretched state. The stretched state is a state in which either the stretcher assembly200is fully stretched (e.g., the length of the stretcher assembly200cannot be increased anymore) or the stretcher assembly200is not fully stretched (e.g., the length of the stretcher assembly200can still be increased) but the play yard mattress that connects to the stretcher assembly200via the frame connectors205is fully stretched and the force from the play yard mattress (or frame) prevents the stretcher assembly200from being further stretched.

When the adjustment sleeve225is rotated and move away from the lock button235, the length of the second portion285increases, and the play yard mattress is stretched (or tightened), and the stretcher assembly200is changed from an expanded state to the stretched state. A biasing mechanism (e.g., a spring, see275inFIG. 10) can bias and prevent the adjustment sleeve225from moving further away from the lock button235to avoid over tighten.

The connection bar215can include an indicator290. The indicator290can indicate when the stretcher assembly200in a stretched state, by, for example, showing a color. The indicator290can indicate when the stretcher assembly200in an expanded state (or non-stretched state), by, for example, showing a color different from the stretched state.

FIG. 20is a cross sectional view of the stretcher assembly200along a longitudinal direction of the stretcher assembly200.FIG. 20shows the biasing mechanism270under the lock button235.

In operation, the stretcher assembly200can be changed from a stretched state to the expanded state (but not fully stretched or tightened yet) as shown inFIG. 20, when the adjustment sleeve225is rotated and move towards the lock button235. In the expanded state, when the adjustment sleeve225is rotated and move away from the lock button235, the stretcher assembly200can be changed from the expanded state back to the stretched state. The material of the lock button235of the stretcher assembly200can be wood, metal, plastic, rubber or any suitable material. The material of other components of the stretcher assembly200can be aluminum, steel, stainless steel, or any suitable material.

The terminology used in this specification is intended to describe particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. The terms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural forms as well, unless clearly indicated otherwise. The terms “includes” and/or “including,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components.

With regard to the preceding description, it is to be understood that changes may be made in detail, especially in matters of the construction materials employed and the shape, size, and arrangement of parts, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The word “embodiment” as used within this specification may, but does not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment. This specification and the embodiments described are examples only. Other and further embodiments may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof.