Portable hi-back car seat/restraint system/seat pad assemblies and methods of making and using same

A hi-back vehicle seat and seat pad restraint system includes a vehicle seat assembly having a vehicle seat back and a vehicle seat operatively connected to the vehicle seat back, a hi-back vehicle seat assembly operatively connected to the vehicle seat assembly, a vehicle safety belt assembly operatively connected to the vehicle seat assembly, wherein the vehicle safety belt assembly interacts with the hi-back vehicle seat assembly, a seat pad assembly located on the vehicle and attached to the vehicle seat assembly. Furthermore, the hi-back vehicle seat assembly can be equipped with a five (5) point harness. Also, the seat pad assembly can be equipped with a seat pad assembly restraining shoulder strap and a restraining shoulder strap connector to keep the shoulder portion of vehicle seat belts correctly positioned over the torso of the end user.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is generally related to portable hi-back car seat/restraint system/seat pad assemblies. More particularly, in one embodiment, the portable hi-back car seat assembly is constructed of two pieces such that the upper piece is secured to a vehicle upper anchor or headrest and lower anchors in order to allow the hi-back car seat to hang down over an existing car seat wherein the hi-back car seat assembly can be easily detached and rolled up, stored away or easily transported. Also, the novel portable hi-back car seat assembly includes an adjustable lap belt that is connected to the existing vehicle lower anchors located behind a conventional motorized vehicle car seat such that an adjustable extension strap is operatively connected to the adjustable lap belt. The adjustable extension strap then is connected to the existing seat belt assembly of the motorized vehicle to securely retain the end user and prohibit from possible slouching or dangers of moving lap belt up the user body. In another embodiment of the portable hi-back car seat assembly, the portable hi-back car seat assembly is constructed of three pieces such that the upper piece is located adjacent to a vehicle upper anchor or headrest and lower anchors and the portable hi-back car seat assembly is located over an existing car seat. Optionally, the upper piece can be securely retained on the vehicle upper anchor or headrest by an upper piece attachment assembly. Also, the novel portable hi-back car seat assembly includes an adjustable strap that is connected to the existing vehicle lower anchors and the upper anchor or headrest. Finally, the upper piece, the lower piece and swiveling seat belt retainers of the portable hi-back car seat assembly are removably retained on the straps that are attached to the vehicle upper anchor or headrest and the vehicle lower anchors. The portable hi-back car seat assembly can also be used in conjunction with an adjustable extension strap that is operatively connected to an adjustable lap belt. The adjustable extension strap then is connected to the existing seat belt assembly of the motorized vehicle to securely retain the end user. Furthermore, a seat pad assembly can optionally be used where the ability to attach the hi-back car seat assembly is restricted. The seat pad assembly includes an adjustable extension strap that is connected to the existing seat belt assembly of the motorized vehicle to securely retain the end user while the end user sits on the seat pad. Also, the seat pad assembly can include a seat pad shoulder strap that is removably attached to the existing car seat belt strap and can be adjusted to correct positioning of shoulder portion of car seat belt on end user. Still further, a five (5) point safety harness assembly can be attached to the hi-back car seat assembly so as to provide a further restraint for the user. Finally, a safety vest restraint assembly can be used in conjunction with a conventional seat belt assembly to properly retain the end user onto the vehicle car seat. The safety vest restraint assembly uses a unique swiveling seat belt restraint clip that allows the end user to move while being restrained by the seat belt assembly and allows seat belts to follow end user movements without the seat belt assembly contacting the neck or head area of the end user.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

While these various supplemental devices for use with existing vehicle safety belts may have been generally satisfactory, there is nevertheless a need for a new and improved portable hi-back car seat assembly, in one embodiment, that is constructed of two pieces such that the upper piece is secured to a vehicle headrest in order to allow the hi-back car seat to hang down over an existing car seat wherein the hi-back car seat assembly can be easily rolled up, stored away or transported. Secondly, the novel portable hi-back car seat assembly should include an adjustable lap belt that is connected to the existing vehicle anchors located behind a conventional motorized vehicle car seat such that an adjustable extension strap is operatively connected to the adjustable lap belt. Thirdly, the adjustable extension strap should then be connected to the existing seat belt assembly of the motorized vehicle to securely retain the end user and prevent end user from possibility of slouching and/or moving lap belt to high up on the user's body. Fourthly, the portable hi-back car seat assembly should be as “thin” as possible (not unnecessarily protruding forward from the back seat) so that the end user is further away from the back of the front seat or any other possible obstacle and provides protection against head injuries (the end user has to travel further in order to hit the back of the front seat). Fifthly, the portable hi-back car seat assembly allows the end user to be seated low on the seat which is further away from the back of the front seat. Sixthly, the portable hi-back car seat assembly keeps the end user low on the car seat which changes the end user's center of gravity center and therefore, reduces forward head movements by the end user. Seventhly, in another embodiment of the portable hi-back car seat assembly, the portable hi-back car seat assembly is constructed of three pieces such that the upper piece is located adjacent to a vehicle headrest and the portable hi-back car seat assembly is located over an existing car seat. Also, the upper piece can be securely retained on the vehicle headrest or upper anchor by an upper piece attachment assembly. Further, the novel portable hi-back car seat assembly includes an adjustable strap that is connected to the existing vehicle lower anchors and upper anchors or the headrest. Furthermore, the upper piece, the lower piece and swiveling seat belt retainers of the portable hi-back car seat assembly are removably retained on the straps that are attached to the the vehicle anchors. Eighthly, the portable hi-back car seat assembly can also be used in conjunction with an adjustable extension strap that is operatively connected to an adjustable lap belt. The adjustable extension strap then is connected to the existing seat belt assembly of the motorized vehicle to securely retain the end user and prevent from slouching or moving lap belt to high on the user body. Ninthly, a seat pad assembly can optionally be used where the ability to attach the hi-back car seat assembly is restricted. Tenthly, the seat pad assembly should include an adjustable extension strap that is connected to the existing seat belt assembly of the motorized vehicle to securely retain the end user while the end user sits on the seat pad thereby possibly correcting the lap belt positioning (for example, the seat pad assembly can be utilized by a pregnant woman to keep the lap belt portion away from and under her stomach in order to avoid any pressure in that area) and not allowing the end user to slouch and thereby change positioning of the seat belt assembly to a less safe orientation. Eleventhly, the seat pad assembly can include a seat pad shoulder strap that is removably attached to the existing car seat belt strap and can be adjusted to correct positioning of shoulder portion of car seat belt on end user. Twelfthly, a five (5) point safety harness assembly can be attached to the hi-back car seat assembly so as to provide a further restraint for the user. Thirteenthly, a safety vest restraint assembly can be used in conjunction with a conventional seat belt assembly to properly retain the end user onto the vehicle car seat. Finally, the safety vest restraint assembly uses a unique swiveling seat belt restraint clip that allows the end user to move and allows the shoulder seat belt portion to follow the end user without changing the proper position of the shoulder seat portion on the shoulder while being restrained by the seat belt assembly and an adjustable safety vest assembly without the seat belt assembly contacting the neck or head area of the end user. This following of the shoulder seat belt position with the end user is extremely important during an accident such as when the vehicle is braking and swiveling prior to the final crash and the end user's torso is changing its position.

It is a purpose of this invention to fulfill these and other needs in the supplemental devices for use with existing vehicle safety belts art in a manner more apparent to the skilled artisan once given the following disclosure.

The preferred portable hi-back car seat/restraint system/seat pad assemblies for use with existing vehicle seats and safety belts or without them in the case of using 5 point system, according to various embodiments of the present invention, offers the following advantages: ease of use; lightness in weight; durability; thinness; the ability of the high back seat portable hi-back car seat assembly to allow an end user to be seated low on the seat; the ability of the safety vest to follow the end user without changing the proper position of the shoulder seat portion on the shoulder; compactness; the ability to be rolled up; improved safety belt characteristics; portability; ease of attachment to existing vehicle anchors; the ability to attach a variety of seat belts; increased safety; physically making harder for end user to slouch and possibility of danger repositioning of lap belt high up on user's body (stomach). In fact, in many of the preferred embodiments, these advantages are optimized to an extent that is considerably higher than heretofore achieved in prior, known supplemental devices for use with existing vehicle safety belt restraint systems.

Hi-Back Car Seat Restraint Assembly

Referring now toFIGS. 1-3, there is illustrated a portable hi-back car seat assembly2for use with an existing vehicle seat assembly50. As will be explained hereinafter in greater detail, the portable hi-back car seat assembly2is constructed of two pieces such that the upper piece is secured to a vehicle upper anchor or headrest in order to allow the portable hi-back car seat assembly2to hang down over an existing car seat back wherein the portable hi-back car seat assembly can be easily rolled up. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the portable hi-back car seat assembly2should be as “thin” as possible (not unnecessarily protruding forward from the back seat) so that the end user is further away from the back of the front seat or any other possible obstacle and provides protection against head injuries (the end user has to travel further in order to hit the back of the front seat). Also, the portable hi-back car seat assembly2should allow the end user to be seated low on the seat which is further away from the back of the front seat. Finally, the portable hi-back car seat assembly2should keep the end user low on the car seat which changes the end user's center of gravity center and therefore, reduces forward head movements by the end user.

As shown inFIGS. 1-3, portable hi-back car seat assembly2for use with an existing vehicle car seat assembly50includes, in part, upper panel assembly3, upper panel4, headrest attachment strips6, headrests8, conventional headrest attachment device10, conventional upper panel fastening device12, lower panel assembly20, lower panel22, side rest pad attachment strips24, side rests26, conventional lower panel fastening device28, vehicle seat assembly50, conventional vehicle seat headrests52, conventional vehicle seat back54, conventional vehicle seat56, adjustable lap belt assembly100and seat pad assembly150. Preferably, upper panel4, headrests8, lower panel22, and side rests26are constructed of any suitable, durable, stain resistant, flexible, lightweight material. Also, preferably, headrest attachment strips6and side rest attachment strips24are firmly secured to upper panel4and lower panel22, respectively and are constructed of Velcro® such that headrests8and side rests26will be able to be removably secured to headrest attachment strips6and side rest attachment strips24, respectively. Furthermore, conventional upper panel fastening device12and lower panel fastening device28, preferably, are constructed to allow upper panel assembly3to be connected to lower panel assembly20, as will be described in greater detail later. For example, conventional upper panel fastening device12and lower panel fastening device28can be, but are not limited to, a zipper, hooks, fasteners or the like. Finally, it is to be understood that conventional headrest attachment device10is any suitable, durable device that allows portable hi-back car seat assembly2to be property retained on headrest52. In particular, conventional headrest attachment device10can be any suitable device that goes around, hangs over and/or attaches to conventional vehicle seat headrests52to allow portable hi-back car seat assembly2to drape over conventional vehicle seat back54.

A unique aspect of the present invention is the use of upper panel assembly3and lower panel assembly20. The construction of upper panel assembly3and lower panel assembly20allows the portable hi-back car seat assembly2to be easily rolled up or folded so that portable hi-back car seat assembly2can be easily stored and transported in a backpack or other similar type of bag or container.

Another unique aspect of the present invention is the use of headrest attachment strips6, headrests8, side rest pad attachment strips24, and side rests26. It is to be understood that headrests8allow the end user208(FIG. 7) to rest his/her head on the headrests8while the end user208is traveling in the motorized vehicle. As discussed above, the use of the headrest attachment strips6allows the headrests8to be positioned up or down along the length of the headrest attachment strips6so that the headrests8are properly positioned with respect to the head of the end user208. As discussed above, it is to be understood that the headrests8are equipped with an attachment device (not shown) that interacts with the headrest attachment strips6in order to properly retain the headrests8on the headrest attachment strips6. For example, the backside of headrests8may be equipped with Velcro® strips that interact with the Velcro® strip on headrest attachment strips6.

Furthermore, it is to be understood that side rests26allow the end user208to rest his/her torso on the side rests26while the end user is traveling in the motorized vehicle. As discussed above, the use of the side rest pad attachment strips24allows the side rests26to be positioned up or down along the length of the side rest pad attachment strips24so that the side rests26are properly positioned with respect to the torso of the end user208. As discussed above, it is to be understood that the side rests26are equipped with an attachment device (not shown) that interacts with the side rest pad attachment strips24in order to properly retain the side rests26on the side rest pad attachment strips24. For example, the backside of side rests26may be equipped with Velcro® strips that interact with the Velcro® strip on side rest pad attachment strips24.

Regarding strap extension adjustment assembly100, as shown inFIGS. 4 and 5, adjustable lap belt assembly100includes, in part, strap102, conventional vehicle anchors104, conventional strap fasteners106, conventional strap adjustment devices108, extension strap110, extension strap end110a, clamp112, conventional extension strap adjustment device114, and clamp end116. Preferably, strap102, conventional vehicle strap anchors104, conventional strap fasteners106, conventional strap adjustment devices108, extension strap110, extension strap end110a, clamp112, and conventional extension strap adjustment device114are constructed of durable, stain resistant, high strength, lightweight material. It is to be understood that extension strap110is conventionally attached to strap102by well-known fastening techniques such as sewing, adhesives, fasteners or the like. Furthermore, the strap102and extension strap110should be constructed of a stretchable material to provide give in case the end user experiences a sudden forward movement such as in the case of a head-on vehicle impact.

During the operation of portable hi-back car seat assembly2, as shown inFIGS. 1-5, 7 and 8, the upper panel assembly3and lower panel assembly20are fastened together through the use of conventional upper panel fastening device12and conventional lower panel fastening device28, as discussed above. The portable hi-back car seat assembly2is then conventionally attached to vehicle headrest52, as discussed above. It is to be understood that only upper panel assembly3(without the attachment of lower panel assembly20) could be attached to headrest52and the present invention would operate in substantially the same manner except that side rests26will not be available to provide a support and protection for the torso of the end user208.

Once the upper panel assembly3and lower panel assembly20have been attached to vehicle headrest52, the headrests8and side rests26can be adjusted to accommodate the desired end user208(FIG. 7). In particular, the headrests8should be located on headrest attachment strips6so that headrests8provide the proper support and protection for the end user's head. Also, side rests26should be located on side rest pad attachment strips24so that side rests26provide the proper support and protection for the end user's torso, as shown inFIG. 7.

After the headrest8and side rests26have been positioned, the adjustable lap belt assembly100is then attached to vehicle anchors104. In particular, strap fasteners106are conventionally attached to vehicle strap anchors104. It is to be understood that strap fasteners106can be, but are not limited to clamps, hooks or other similar fastening devices. After strap fasteners106are attached to vehicle anchors104, the ends of strap102are conventionally pulled through strap adjustment devices108in order to properly secure strap102to vehicle anchors104.

Once the strap102has been secured to vehicle anchors104, the end user208(FIG. 7) then locates himself/herself onto portable hi-back car seat assembly2, as shown inFIGS. 7 and 8. The end user then pulls the conventional vehicle safety belt assembly200so that upper seat belt portion202of vehicle safety belt assembly200is located over the shoulder and torso of the end user208. Also, the lap belt portion204of vehicle safety belt assembly200is located over the lap of the end user208.

After the conventional vehicle safety belt assembly200has been located over the end user, the clamp end116of clamp112is conventionally slipped over the lap belt portion204of vehicle safety belt assembly200so that the extension strap110is now operatively connected to the lap belt portion204of the vehicle safety belt assembly200, as shown inFIGS. 7 and 8. The end user208then attaches the vehicle safety belt assembly200to the conventional seat belt latch206. Finally, the end user208conventionally pulls on extension strap end110aso that extension strap110is now securely retained on lap belt portion204of vehicle safety belt assembly200through the use of extension strap adjustment device114and clamp112.

A unique inventive aspect of the present invention is the use of portable hi-back car seat assembly2and adjustable lap belt assembly100in conjunction with vehicle safety belt assembly200. In particular, once the end user208has been properly restrained onto the vehicle car seat assembly50through the use of portable hi-back car seat assembly2and vehicle safety belt assembly200, the headrests8will provide impact protection for the end user's head. Also, the side rests26will provide impact protection for the end user's torso. Furthermore, due to the fact that the extension strap110is now connected to the lap belt portion204of vehicle safety belt assembly200, the extension strap110should somewhat keep the end user208from slouching forward on the vehicle car seat assembly50.

Another unique aspect of the present invention is that the headrests8and the side rests26are adjustable, as discussed earlier. In this manner, the hi-back car seat assembly2can be used for end users of various ages and sizes.

A still another unique aspect of the present invention is that due to the fact that the hi-back car seat assembly2is constructed of flexible materials. In this manner, the hi-back car seat assembly2can be easily rolled-up, folded-up or otherwise compacted so that the hi-back car seat assembly2can be easily stored and transported.

Seat Pad Assembly

Referring now toFIGS. 2, 3, 6, 6A, 7 and 8A, there is illustrated a seat pad assembly150for use with an existing vehicle seat assembly50. As will be explained hereinafter in greater detail, the seat pad assembly150can optionally be used where the ability to attach the hi-back car seat assembly2is restricted. The seat pad assembly150can be connected to the existing seat belt assembly200of the motorized vehicle to securely retain the end user208while the end user208sits on the seat pad assembly150.

As shown inFIGS. 2, 3, 6, 6A, 7 and 8A, seat pad assembly150for use with an existing vehicle car seat assembly50includes, in part, seat pad152, adjustable strap158, conventional vehicle anchors104, conventional strap fasteners154, conventional strap adjustment devices156, extension strap160, extension strap end160a, clamp162, conventional extension strap adjustment device164, and clamp end166. Preferably, strap158, conventional vehicle anchors104, conventional strap fasteners154, conventional strap adjustment devices156, strap ends158, extension strap160, extension strap end160a, clamp162, conventional extension strap adjustment device164, and clamp end166are constructed of durable, stain resistant, high strength, lightweight materials. It is to be understood that extension strap160is conventionally attached to pad152by well-known fastening techniques such as sewing, adhesives, fasteners or the like. Furthermore, the adjustable strap158and extension strap160should be constructed of a stretchable material to provide give in case the end user experiences a sudden forward movement such as in the case of a head-on vehicle impact.

Another unique aspect of the present invention is seat pad152. It is to be understood that seat pad152should be constructed of any suitable, durable, flexible, stain resistant, high strength, non-slip material. However, seat pad152should be constructed so that it is thick enough so that it is durable and provides the proper safety characteristics. Also, seat pad152should be constructed so that seat pad assembly150(or500inFIG. 16) can be left on car seat56. In particular, seat pad152should be of a thickness that if seat pad assembly150(or500) is left on car seat56and someone sits down on seat pad152, this individual will not experience any discomfort due to sitting upon seat pad152.

It is to be understood that the seat pad assembly150may include an adjustable extension strap160that is connected to the existing seat belt assembly200of the motorized vehicle to securely retain the end user208while the end user208sits on the seat pad assembly150thereby possibly correcting the positioning of lap belt portion204. For example, the seat pad assembly150can be utilized by a pregnant woman to keep the lap belt portion204away from and under her stomach in order to avoid any pressure in that area. Also, the adjustable extension strap160should not allow the end user208to slouch and thereby change positioning of the seat belt assembly200to a less safe orientation.

A unique aspect of the present invention is the use of seat pad assembly150. The construction of seat pad assembly150allows the seat pad assembly150to be easily rolled up or folded so that seat pad assembly150can be easily stored and transported in a backpack or other similar type of bag or container.

During the operation of seat pad assembly150, as shown inFIGS. 2, 3, 6, 6A, 7 and 8A, the seat pad152is located on seat56. The adjustable strap158is then conventionally attached to vehicle anchors104. In particular, strap fasteners154are conventionally attached to vehicle strap anchors104. It is to be understood that strap fasteners154can be, but are not limited to clamps, hooks or other similar fastening devices. After strap fasteners154are attached to vehicle anchors104, the ends158of adjustable strap158are conventionally pulled through strap adjustment devices156in order to properly secure adjustable strap158to vehicle anchors104.

Once the adjustable strap158has been secured to vehicle anchors104, the end user208then locates himself/herself onto seat pad assembly150, as shown inFIGS. 7 and 8A. The end user208then pulls the conventional vehicle safety belt assembly200so that upper seat belt portion202of vehicle safety belt assembly200is located over the shoulder and torso of the end user208. Also, the lap belt portion204of vehicle safety belt assembly200is located over the lap of the end user208.

After the conventional vehicle safety belt assembly200has been located over the end user208, the clamp end166of clamp162is conventionally slipped over the lap belt portion204of vehicle safety belt assembly200so that the extension strap160is now operatively connected to the lap belt portion204of the vehicle safety belt assembly200, as shown inFIGS. 7 and 8A. The end user208then conventionally attaches the vehicle safety belt assembly200to the conventional seat belt latch206. Finally, the end user208conventionally pulls on extension strap end160aso that extension strap160is now securely retained on lap belt portion204through the use of extension strap adjustment device164and clamp162.

A unique inventive aspect of the present invention is that seat pad assembly150may not have to be used in conjunction with adjustable strap158, conventional vehicle anchors104, conventional strap fasteners154, and conventional strap adjustment devices156. In particular, if for example, the end user208is going for a ride in a taxi cab or other similar mass transit type of vehicle, it may not be convenient for the seat pad assembly150to be attached to the vehicle anchors104. In this instance, the seat pad assembly150is located onto the seat56and the end user208merely places himself/herself onto seat pad assembly150. The end user208then pulls the conventional vehicle safety belt assembly200so that upper seat belt portion202of vehicle safety belt assembly200is located over the shoulder and torso of the end user208. Also, the lap belt portion204of vehicle safety belt assembly200is then located over the lap of the end user208.

In this instance, after the conventional vehicle safety belt assembly200has been located over the end user208, the clamp end166of clamp162is conventionally slipped over the lap belt portion204so that the extension strap160is now operatively connected to the lap belt portion204of the vehicle safety belt assembly200, as discussed earlier. The end user208then conventionally attaches the vehicle safety belt assembly200to the conventional seat belt latch206. Finally, the end user208conventionally pulls on extension strap end160aso that extension strap160is now securely retained on lap belt portion204through the use of extension strap adjustment device164and clamp162.

Another unique aspect of the present invention is that due to the fact that the extension strap160is now connected to the lap belt portion204, the extension strap160should somewhat keep the end user from slouching forward on the vehicle car seat assembly50.

A further unique aspect of the present invention is that since the extension strap160is adjustable, the seat pad assembly150can be used for end users of various ages and sizes.

A still another unique aspect of the present invention is that due to the fact that the seat pad assembly150is constructed of flexible materials, the seat pad assembly150can be easily rolled-up, folded-up or otherwise compacted so that the seat pad assembly150can be easily stored and transported.

Referring now toFIG. 16, there is illustrated another seat pad assembly500for use with an existing vehicle seat assembly50. As will be explained hereinafter in greater detail, the seat pad assembly500can optionally be used where the ability to attach the hi-back car seat assembly2is restricted. The seat pad assembly500can be connected to the existing seat belt assembly200of the motorized vehicle to securely retain the end user while the end user sits on the seat pad assembly150.

As shown inFIG. 16, seat pad assembly500for use with an existing vehicle car seat assembly50is to be constructed in the same manner as seat pad assembly150, as shown inFIGS. 2, 3, 6, 6A, 7 and 8A. It is to be understood that extension strap160is conventionally attached to pad152by well-known fastening techniques such as sewing, adhesives, fasteners or the like. Furthermore, the adjustable straps158and extension strap160should be constructed of a stretchable (elastic) material to provide give in case the end user experiences a sudden forward movement such as in the case of a head-on vehicle impact. In this manner, the end user should experience substantially reduced discomfort if the end user experiences a sudden forward movement because the extension strap160should stretch and provide some “give” when the end user suddenly contacts the extension strap160.

As discussed earlier with respect toFIG. 6, it is to be understood that the seat pad assembly500may include an adjustable extension strap160that is connected to the existing seat belt assembly200of the motorized vehicle to securely retain the end user while the end user sits on the seat pad assembly150thereby possibly correcting the positioning of lap belt portion204. For example, the seat pad assembly500can be utilized by a pregnant woman to keep the lap belt portion of the seat belt assembly away from and under her stomach in order to avoid any pressure in that area. Also, the adjustable extension strap160should not allow the end user to slouch and thereby change positioning of the seat belt assembly200to a less safe orientation.

A unique aspect of the present invention is the use of seat pad assembly500. The construction of seat pad assembly500allows the seat pad assembly500to be easily rolled up or folded so that seat pad assembly500can be easily stored and transported in a backpack or other similar type of bag or container.

Another unique aspect of the present invention is the use of seat pad assembly restraining shoulder strap502and restraining shoulder strap/seat belt connector504. Preferably, seat pad assembly restraining shoulder strap502and restraining strap/seat belt connector504are constructed of any suitable, durable, stain resistant, high strength, lightweight materials. Also, seat pad assembly restraining shoulder strap502is conventionally attached at one end to the seat pad152by conventional fastening techniques such as sewing, stitching, fasteners, adhesives or the like. It can be as well removably attached by other means. Further, restraining shoulder strap/seat belt connector504is connected to the other end of seat pad assembly restraining shoulder strap502in a manner that it allows for fixed repositioning it on shoulder strap502and adjusting shoulder strap502to a needed length that will allow existing car seat belt to be correctly positioned on end user's shoulder. Finally, it is to be understood that restraining strap/seat belt connector504should be constructed to that it easily connects to the existing end of upper seat belt portion202and is able to slide along a length of upper seat belt portion202. In this manner, seat pad assembly restraining shoulder strap502and restraining shoulder strap/seat belt connector504can be used to keep the existing car seat belts positioned correctly on a end user shoulder.

During the operation of seat pad assembly500, as shown inFIGS. 2, 3, 6, 6A, 7, 8A, and 16, the seat pad152is located on seat56. As best shown inFIGS. 2, 3, 6, 6A, 7, and 8A, the adjustable strap158is then conventionally attached to vehicle anchors104. In particular, strap fasteners154are conventionally attached to vehicle strap anchors104. It is to be understood that strap fasteners154can be, but are not limited to clamps, hooks or other similar fastening devices. After strap fasteners154are attached to vehicle anchors104, the ends158of adjustable strap158are conventionally pulled through strap adjustment devices156in order to properly secure adjustable strap158to vehicle anchors104.

Once the adjustable strap158has been secured to vehicle anchors104, the end user208then locates himself/herself onto seat pad assembly500, in a similar manner as discussed earlier with respect toFIGS. 7 and 8A. The end user208then pulls the conventional vehicle safety belt assembly200so that upper seat belt portion202of vehicle safety belt assembly200is located over the shoulder and torso of the end user208. Also, the lap belt portion204of vehicle safety belt assembly200is located over the lap of the end user208.

After the conventional vehicle safety belt assembly200has been located over the end user208, the clamp end166of clamp162is conventionally slipped over the lap belt portion204of vehicle safety belt assembly200so that the extension strap160is now operatively connected to the lap belt portion204of the vehicle safety belt assembly200, in a similar manner as better shown inFIGS. 7 and 8A. The end user208then conventionally attaches the vehicle safety belt assembly200to the conventional seat belt latch206. Next, the end user208conventionally pulls on extension strap end160aso that extension strap160is now securely retained on lap belt portion204through the use of extension strap adjustment device164and clamp162. Finally, the end user attaches the seat pad assembly restraining shoulder strap502and restraining shoulder strap/seat belt connector504to the upper seat belt portion202so that the seat belt can be correctly positioned on end user shoulder.

A unique inventive aspect of the present invention is that seat pad assembly500may not have to be used in conjunction with adjustable strap158, conventional vehicle anchors104, conventional strap fasteners154, and conventional strap adjustment devices156. In particular, if for example, the end user is going for a ride in a taxi cab or other similar mass transit type of vehicle, it may not be convenient for the seat pad assembly500to be attached to the vehicle anchors104. In this instance, the seat pad assembly500is located onto the seat56and the end user merely places himself/herself onto seat pad assembly500. The end user then pulls the conventional vehicle safety belt assembly200so that upper seat belt portion202of vehicle safety belt assembly200is located over the shoulder and torso of the end user. Also, the lap belt portion of vehicle safety belt assembly200is then located over the lap of the end user.

In this instance, after the conventional vehicle safety belt assembly200has been located over the end user, the clamp end of clamp162is conventionally slipped over the lap belt portion so that the extension strap160is now operatively connected to the lap belt portion of the vehicle safety belt assembly200, as discussed earlier. The end user then conventionally attaches the vehicle safety belt assembly200to the conventional seat belt latch. Finally, the end user conventionally pulls on extension strap end so that extension strap is now securely retained on lap belt portion through the use of extension strap adjustment device and clamp162, as discussed earlier.

Another unique aspect of the present invention is that due to the fact that the extension strap160is now connected to the lap belt portion, the extension strap160should somewhat keep the end user from slouching forward on the vehicle car seat assembly50, as discussed earlier.

A further unique aspect of the present invention is that since the extension strap160is adjustable, the seat pad assembly150can be used for end users of various ages and sizes.

A still another unique aspect of the present invention is that due to the fact that the seat pad assembly500is constructed of flexible, thin, lightweight, durable, stain resistant, non-slip materials, the seat pad assembly500can be easily rolled-up, folded-up or otherwise compacted so that the seat pad assembly500can be easily stored and transported.

Safety Vest Restraint Assembly

Referring now toFIGS. 9 and 10, there is illustrated a safety vest restraint assembly250for use with an existing vehicle seat assembly50. As will be explained hereinafter in greater detail, the safety vest restraint assembly250can be used in conjunction with a conventional seat belt assembly200and, optionally, a strap extension adjustment assembly100to property retain the end user208onto the vehicle car seat assembly50. The safety vest restraint assembly250uses a unique swiveling seat belt restraint retainer that allows the end user208to move while being restrained by the seat belt assembly200and an adjustable safety vest without the seat belt assembly200contacting the neck or head area of the end user but rather keeping it at the correct spot all the time.

As shown inFIGS. 9 and 10, safety vest restraint assembly250for use with an existing vehicle car seat assembly50includes, in part, adjustable safety vest252, swiveling seat belt retainers254, and vest fastener256. Preferably, adjustable safety vest252, swiveling seat belt retainers254, and vest fastener256are constructed of any suitable durable, stain resistant, high strength, and lightweight material. It is to be further understood that safety vest252is adjustable in that different sizes of safety vest252can be supplied in order to fit an adult, a teenager or a child. It is to be further understood that vest fastener256is any suitable fastener that is capable of allowing adjustable vest252to be property retained on the end user208such as a zipper, buckles, buttons, hooks or the like.

It is to be even further understood that swiveling seat belt retainers254are conventionally attached onto around the shoulder areas of adjustable safety vest252by conventional fasteners (not shown) such as grommets, rivets, or the like. The key feature of fasteners on swiveling seat belt retainers254being that the fasteners must allow the swiveling seat belt retainers254to easily rotate around while being attached to safety vest252but still property retain the swiveling seat belt retainers254onto the adjustable safety vest252.

A unique aspect of the present invention is the use of swiveling seat belt retainers254. Preferably, swiveling seat belt retainers254are used to retain upper seat belt portion202of seat belt assembly200against the shoulder area of safety vest252. Due to the fact that swiveling seat belt retainers254are able to rotate, swiveling seat belt retainers254allow the end user208to move around the seat assembly50while being restrained by the seat belt assembly200and the adjustable safety vest252without the seat belt assembly200(particularly upper seat belt portion202) contacting the neck or head area of the end user208but rather keeping it at the correct spot all the time.

It is to be understood that the safety vest restraint assembly250uses the unique swiveling seat belt retainers254in order to allow the end user208to move and allow the upper seat belt portion202to follow the end user208without changing the proper position of the upper seat belt portion202on the shoulder of the end user208while being restrained by the seat belt assembly200and an adjustable safety vest assembly250without the seat belt assembly200contacting the neck or head area of the end user. This following of the upper seat belt portion202with the end user208is extremely important during an accident such as when the vehicle is braking and swiveling prior to the final crash and the end user's torso is changing its position.

Another unique aspect of the present invention is the construction of safety vest restraint assembly250. The construction of safety vest restraint assembly250allows the safety vest restraint assembly250to be easily rolled up or folded so that safety vest restraint assembly250can be easily stored and transported in a backpack or other similar type of bag or container.

During the operation of safety vest restraint assembly250, as shown inFIGS. 9 and 20, the adjustable safety vest252is placed on the end user208and the adjustable safety vest252is secured to the end user by activating vest fastener256such as using a zipper to zip together adjustable safety vest252.

As shown inFIG. 9, safety vest restraint assembly250may optionally be equipped with strap extension adjustment assembly100. It is to be understood that the strap extension adjustment assembly100used in conjunction with safety vest restraint assembly250is constructed in substantially the same manner as strap extension adjustment assembly100, as previously discussed.

Once the adjustable lap belt assembly100has been secured, as discussed above, the end user208then locates himself/herself onto the vehicle seat assembly50at the location of seat belt assembly200, as shown inFIG. 9. The end user208then pulls the conventional vehicle safety belt assembly200so that upper seat belt portion202of seat belt assembly200is located over the shoulder and torso of the end user208. Also, the lap belt portion204of seat belt assembly200is located over the lap of the end user208. The end user then secures a portion of the upper seat belt portion202into one of the swiveling seat belt retainers254, preferably the swiveling seat belt retainer254that is now located adjacent to the upper seat belt portion202.

After the conventional vehicle safety belt assembly200has been located over the end user208, the clamp112is conventionally attached to lap belt portion204of seat belt assembly200so that the extension strap110is now operatively connected to the lap belt portion204of the vehicle safety belt assembly200, as previously discussed and as now shown inFIG. 9. The end user208then conventionally attaches the vehicle safety belt assembly200to the conventional seat belt latch206. Finally, the end user208conventionally pulls on extension strap end of the extension strap110so that extension strap110is now securely retained on lap belt portion204of seat belt assembly200through the use of extension strap adjustment device and clamp112, as previously discussed.

With respect toFIG. 10, a unique inventive aspect of the present invention is that safety vest restraint assembly250may not have to be used in conjunction with adjustable lap belt assembly100. In particular, if for example, the end user208is going for a ride in a taxi cab or other similar mass transit type of vehicle, it may not be convenient for the adjustable lap belt assembly100to be attached to the vehicle anchors. In this instance, the end user208merely locates himself/herself onto the vehicle seat assembly50at the location of seat belt assembly200, as shown inFIG. 10. The end user208then pulls the conventional vehicle safety belt assembly200so that upper seat belt portion202of seat belt assembly200is located over the shoulder and torso of the end user208. Also, the lap belt portion204of seat belt assembly200is located over the lap of the end user208. The end user then secures the upper seat belt portion202of seat belt assembly200into one of the swiveling seat belt retainers254, preferably the swiveling seat belt retainer254that is now located adjacent to the upper seat belt portion202. The end user208then conventionally attaches the vehicle safety belt assembly200to the conventional seat belt latch206, as discussed earlier.

Another unique aspect of the present invention is that safety vest restraint assembly250can be used in conjunction with seat belt assembly200and seat pad assembly150or500(not shown). In this manner, the seat pad assembly150or500is placed on the seat assembly50, as discussed earlier. The end user208then dons safety vest restraint assembly250, as discussed earlier. The seat belt assembly200is attached to the end user208, as discussed earlier. The end user seat pad assembly150or500is then attached to the seat belt assembly200, as discussed earlier.

Hi-Back Car Seat Restraint Assembly

Referring now toFIGS. 11-13, there is illustrated a portable hi-back car seat assembly300for use with an existing vehicle seat assembly50. As will be explained hereinafter in greater detail, the portable hi-back car seat assembly300is constructed of three pieces such that the upper piece303is located adjacent to a vehicle headrest52or vehicle upper anchor and the portable hi-back car seat assembly300is located over an existing car seat back54. Also, the novel portable hi-back car seat assembly300includes an adjustable strap312that is connected to the existing vehicle anchors104and the headrest52or vehicle upper anchor. Finally, the upper piece303, the lower piece320and swiveling seat belt retainer350of the portable hi-back car seat assembly300are removably retained on the straps312that are attached to the headrest52or vehicle upper anchor and the vehicle lower anchors104. The portable hi-back car seat assembly300can also be used in conjunction with an adjustable extension strap assembly100that is operatively connected to an adjustable lap belt110. The adjustable extension strap110then is connected to the existing seat belt assembly200of the motorized vehicle to securely retain the end user. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the portable hi-back car seat assembly300should be as “thin” as possible (not unnecessarily protruding forward from the back seat) so that the end user is further away from the back of the front seat or any other possible obstacle and provides protection against head injuries (the end user has to travel further in order to hit the back of the front seat). Also, the portable hi-back car seat assembly300should allow the end user to be seated low on the seat50which is further away from the back of the front seat. Finally, the portable hi-back car seat assembly300should keep the end user low on the car seat50which changes the end user's center of gravity center and therefore, reduces forward head movements by the end user.

As shown inFIGS. 11 and 12, portable hi-back car seat assembly300for use with an existing vehicle car seat assembly50includes, in part, upper panel assembly303, upper panel304, headrest306, straps312, lower panel assembly320, lower panel322, side rest324, swiveling seat belt retainer350, vehicle seat assembly50, conventional vehicle seat headrests52, conventional vehicle seat back54, conventional vehicle seat56, adjustable lap belt assembly100and seat pad assembly150. Preferably, upper panel304, headrest306, straps312, lower panel322, side rest324, and swiveling seat belt retainer350are constructed of any suitable, durable, stain resistant, flexible, lightweight material. It is to be further understood that headrest306and side rest324can be constructed of any suitable durable, inflatable material. It is to be even further understood that swiveling seat belt retainer350should be constructed such that swiveling seat belt retainer350is able to be removably secured to straps312, retain the upper seat belt portion202of vehicle safety belt assembly200within the swiveling seat belt retainer350.

A unique aspect of the present invention is the use of upper panel assembly303and lower panel assembly320. The construction of upper panel assembly303and lower panel assembly320allows the portable hi-back car seat assembly300to be easily rolled up or folded so that portable hi-back car seat assembly300can be easily stored and transported in a backpack or other similar type of bag or container. Furthermore, once portable hi-back car seat assembly300has been installed onto vehicle seat assembly50, headrest306and side rest324can be inflated.

Another unique aspect of the present invention is the use of straps312, headrest306, side rest324, and swiveling seat belt retainer350. It is to be understood that headrest306allows the end user to rest his/her head on the headrest306while the end user is traveling in the motorized vehicle. As discussed above, the use of the straps312allows the headrest306to be positioned up or down along the length of the straps312so that the headrest306is properly positioned with respect to the head of the end user. As discussed above, it is to be understood that the headrest306is equipped with an attachment device (not shown) that interacts with straps312in order to properly retain the headrest306on the straps312.

Furthermore, it is to be understood that side rest324allows the end user to rest his/her torso on the side rest324while the end user is traveling in the motorized vehicle. As discussed above, the use of the strap312allows the side rest324to be positioned up or down along the length of the straps312so that the side rest324is properly positioned with respect to the torso of the end user. As discussed above, it is to be understood that the side rest324is equipped with an attachment device (not shown) that interacts with the strap312in order to properly retain the side rest324on the strap312.

Finally, it is to be understood that swiveling seat belt retainer350allows the end user to retain the upper seat belt portion202of vehicle safety belt assembly200within the swiveling seat belt retainer350. Furthermore, as discussed above, the use of the strap312allows the swiveling seat belt retainer350to be positioned up or down along the length of the straps312so that the swiveling seat belt retainer350is properly positioned with respect to the shoulder area of the end user. As discussed above, it is to be understood that the swiveling seat belt retainer350is equipped with an attachment device (not shown) that interacts with the strap312in order to property retain the swiveling seat belt retainer350on the strap312.

As shown inFIGS. 11 and 12, portable hi-back car seat assembly300can be used in conjunction with strap extension adjustment assembly100. It is to be understood that the strap extension adjustment assembly100used in conjunction with portable hi-back car seat assembly300is constructed in substantially the same manner as strap extension adjustment assembly100, as previously discussed.

As shown inFIG. 13, upper piece303of portable hi-back car seat assembly300can be attached to an existing vehicle headrest (not shown) through the use of upper piece attachment assembly360. Upper piece attachment assembly360provides an alternative method of attaching portable hi-back car seat assembly300to the existing vehicle headrest or to vehicle upper anchor so that portable hi-back car seat assembly300is able to hang over the existing seat back, as discussed earlier. As shown inFIG. 13, upper piece attachment assembly360includes, in part, upper piece attachments362, straps312, extension strap366, conventional strap adjustment device368, extension strap end369, and conventional anchor strap fastener370. Preferably, upper piece attachments362, extension strap366, conventional strap adjustment device368, extension strap end369, and conventional anchor strap fastener370are constructed of durable, stain resistant, high strength, lightweight materials. It is to be understood that extension strap366is conventionally attached to straps312by well-known fastening techniques such as sewing, adhesives, fasteners or the like. It is to be further understood that upper piece attachments362are constructed of Velcro® and straps312include conventional fastening devices such as Velcro® that are conventionally attached to straps312such that straps312will be able to be removably secured to upper piece attachments362.

In order to connect upper piece attachment assembly360to the existing vehicle headrest or vehicle upper anchor, conventional strap fastener370is attached to vehicle upper anchor or located around the existing vehicle headrest. The extension strap end369is then adjusted in conjunction with the conventional strap adjustment device368so that the upper piece attachment assembly360is firmly secured to the vehicle upper anchor or headrest.

Once the piece attachment assembly360has been secured to the vehicle headrest, the upper piece303can then be located on straps312through the use of upper piece attachments362, as discussed above. In this manner, portable hi-back car seat assembly300is able to hang over the existing seat back, as discussed earlier.

During the operation of portable hi-back car seat assembly300, once the adjustable lap belt assembly100has been secured, as discussed above, the end user conventionally attaches one of the ends of a straps312to existing vehicle anchors104and the other of the ends of straps312to headrests52or vehicle upper anchor. It is to be understood that straps312can be equipped with conventional devices that allow the lengths of straps312to be adjusted so that straps312are firmly retained against seat back54. The end user then determines the proper location of headrest306, side rest324and swiveling seat belt retainer350along the length of straps312. Finally, the end user can then inflate headrest306and side rest324, if needed.

The end user then locates himself/herself onto the vehicle seat assembly50at the location of seat belt assembly200and portable hi-back car seat assembly300. The end user then pulls the conventional vehicle safety belt assembly200so that upper seat belt portion202of seat belt assembly200is located over the shoulder and torso of the end user. Also, the lap belt portion204of seat belt assembly200is located over the lap of the end user. The end user then secures a portion of the upper seat belt portion202into the swiveling seat belt retainer350, preferably the swiveling seat belt retainer350that is now located adjacent to the upper seat belt portion202.

After the conventional vehicle safety belt assembly200has been located over the end user, the clamp112is conventionally attached to lap belt portion204of seat belt assembly200so that the extension strap110is now operatively connected to the lap belt portion204of the vehicle safety belt assembly200, as previously discussed. The end user then conventionally attaches the vehicle safety belt assembly200to the conventional seat belt latch206. Finally, the end user208conventionally pulls on extension strap end of the extension strap110so that extension strap110is now securely retained on lap belt portion204of seat belt assembly200through the use of extension strap adjustment device and clamp112, as previously discussed.

A unique inventive aspect of the present invention is the use of portable hi-back car seat assembly300and adjustable lap belt assembly100in conjunction with vehicle safety belt assembly200. In particular, once the end user has been properly restrained onto the vehicle car seat assembly50through the use of portable hi-back car seat assembly300and vehicle safety belt assembly200, the headrest306will provide impact protection for the end user's head. Also, the side rest324will provide impact protection for the end user's torso. Furthermore, due to the fact that the extension strap110is now connected to the lap belt portion204of vehicle safety belt assembly200, the extension strap110should somewhat keep the end user208from slouching forward on the vehicle car seat assembly50.

Another unique aspect of the present invention is that the headrest306and the side rest324are adjustable, as discussed earlier. In this manner, the hi-back car seat assembly300can be used for end users of various ages and sizes.

A still another unique aspect of the present invention is related to the fact that the hi-back car seat assembly300is constructed of flexible materials. In this manner, the hi-back car seat assembly300can be easily rolled-up, folded-up or otherwise compacted so that the hi-back car seat assembly300can be easily stored and transported.

A further unique aspect of the present invention is the use of swiveling seat belt retainer350. Preferably, swiveling seat belt retainer350is used to retain upper seat belt portion202of seat belt assembly200against the shoulder area of the end user.

Referring now toFIGS. 14 and 15, there is illustrated a portable hi-back car seat assembly300for use with an existing vehicle seat assembly50(FIG. 15) or for use with vehicle anchor system and utilizing 5-point restraint system (FIG. 15). As will be explained hereinafter in greater detail, the portable hi-back car seat assembly300is constructed of three pieces such that the upper piece303is located adjacent to a vehicle headrest52or vehicle anchor system and the portable hi-back car seat assembly300is located over an existing car seat back54. Also, the novel portable hi-back car seat assembly300includes an adjustable strap312that is connected to the existing vehicle anchors104and the back of car seat54or vehicle upper anchor. Finally, the upper piece303, the lower piece320and swiveling seat belt retainer350of the portable hi-back car seat assembly300are removably retained on the straps312that are attached to the back of car seat54or vehicle upper anchor and the vehicle anchors104. The portable hi-back car seat assembly300can also be used in conjunction with seat pad assembly150or500. As discussed earlier, seat pad assembly150or500is connected to the existing vehicle anchors104. Furthermore, seat pad assembly150or500can be connected to the upper seat belt portion202, as discussed earlier. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the portable hi-back car seat assembly300should be as “thin” as possible (not unnecessarily protruding forward from the back seat) so that the end user is further away from the back of the front seat or any other possible obstacle and provides protection against head injuries (the end user has to travel further in order to hit the back of the front seat). Also, the portable hi-back car seat assembly300should allow the end user to be seated low on the seat50which is further away from the back of the front seat. Finally, the portable hi-back car seat assembly300should keep the end user low on the car seat50which changes the end user's center of gravity center and therefore, reduces forward head movements by the end user.

As shown inFIGS. 14 and 15, portable hi-back car seat assembly300for use with an existing vehicle car seat assembly50includes, in part, upper panel assembly303, upper panel304, headrest306, straps312, lower panel assembly320, lower panel322, side rest324, swiveling seat belt retainer350, vehicle seat assembly50, conventional vehicle seat headrests52, conventional vehicle seat back54, conventional vehicle seat56, and seat pad assembly150. Preferably, upper panel304, headrest306, straps312, lower panel322, side rest324, and swiveling seat belt retainer350are constructed of any suitable, durable, stain resistant, flexible, lightweight material. It is to be further understood that headrest306and side rest324can be constructed of any suitable durable, inflatable material. It is to be even further understood that swiveling seat belt retainer350should be constructed such that swiveling seat belt retainer350is able to be removably secured to straps312, retain the upper seat belt portion202of vehicle safety belt assembly200within the swiveling seat belt retainer350and also rotate so that upper seat belt portion202can be correctly adjusted to height of end user. Also, headrest306, side rest324and swiveling seat belt retainer350may be equipped with a locking system that allows them to be securely repositioned on straps312.

A unique aspect of the present invention is the use of upper panel assembly303and lower panel assembly320. The construction of upper panel assembly303and lower panel assembly320allows the portable hi-back car seat assembly300to be easily rolled up or folded so that portable hi-back car seat assembly300can be easily stored and transported in a backpack or other similar type of bag or container. Furthermore, once portable hi-back car seat assembly300has been installed onto vehicle seat assembly50, headrest306and side rest324can be inflated.

Another unique aspect of the present invention is the use of straps312, headrest306, side rest324, and swiveling seat belt retainer350. It is to be understood that headrest306allows the end user to rest his/her head on the headrest306while the end user is traveling in the motorized vehicle. As discussed above, the use of the straps312allows the headrest306to be positioned up or down along the length of the straps312so that the headrest306is properly positioned with respect to the head of the end user. As discussed above, it is to be understood that the headrest306is equipped with an attachment device (not shown) that interacts with straps312in order to properly retain the headrest306on the straps312. For example, the backside of headrest306may be equipped with any locking system that allows it to move it on strap312and lock in place.

Furthermore, it is to be understood that side rest324allows the end user to rest his/her torso on the side rest324while the end user is traveling in the motorized vehicle. As discussed above, the use of the strap312allows the side rest324to be positioned up or down along the length of the straps312so that the side rest324is properly positioned with respect to the torso of the end user. As discussed above, it is to be understood that the side rest324is equipped with an attachment device (not shown) that interacts with the strap312in order to properly retain the side rest324on the strap312. For example, the backside of side rest324may be equipped with any locking system that allows it to move it on strap312and lock in place.

Finally, it is to be understood that swiveling seat belt retainer350allows the end user to retain the upper seat belt portion202of vehicle safety belt assembly200within the swiveling seat belt retainer350. Furthermore, as discussed above, the use of the strap312allows the swiveling seat belt retainer350to be positioned up or down along the length of the straps312so that the swiveling seat belt retainer350is property positioned with respect to the shoulder area of the end user. As discussed above, it is to be understood that the swiveling seat belt retainer350is equipped with an attachment device (not shown) that interacts with the strap312in order to properly retain the swiveling seat belt retainer350on the strap312. For example, the backside of swiveling seat belt retainer350may be equipped with any locking system that allows it to move it on strap312and lock in place.

As shown inFIG. 14, portable hi-back car seat assembly300can also be equipped with a five (5) point harness assembly400. In this embodiment, five (5) point harness assembly400includes, in part, lower harness straps402, harness strap anchors404, harness straps fasteners406and upper harness straps408. Preferably, lower harness straps402, harness strap anchors404, harness straps fasteners406and upper harness straps408are constructed of any suitable, durable, high strength, lightweight materials. It is to be understood that that lower harness straps402are conventionally connected to the existing vehicle anchors104. Also, the ends of upper harness straps408are conventionally attached to the back of lower panel322by conventional fasteners (not shown) that allow for length adjusting of harness strap408.

During the operation of portable hi-back car seat assembly300, as shown inFIGS. 14 and 15, once the seat pad assembly150(or500) has been secured, as discussed above, the end user conventionally attaches one of the ends of a straps312to existing vehicle anchors104and the other of the ends of straps312to vehicle upper anchor (not shown here). It is to be understood that straps312can be equipped with conventional devices that allow the lengths of straps312to be adjusted so that straps312are firmly retained against seat back54. The end user then determines the proper location of headrest306, side rest324and swiveling seat belt retainer350along the length of straps312. Finally, the end user can then inflate headrest306and side rest324, if needed.

The end user then locates himself/herself onto the vehicle seat assembly50at the location of seat belt assembly200and portable hi-back car seat assembly300. The end user then pulls the conventional vehicle safety belt assembly200so that upper seat belt portion202of seat belt assembly200is located over the shoulder and torso of the end user. Also, the lap belt portion204of seat belt assembly200is located over the lap of the end user. The end user then secures a portion of the upper seat belt portion202into the swiveling seat belt retainer350, preferably the swiveling seat belt retainer350that is now located adjacent to the upper seat belt portion202.

After the conventional vehicle safety belt assembly200has been located over the end user, the clamp162is conventionally attached to lap belt portion204of seat belt assembly200so that the extension strap160of seat pad assembly150(or500) is now operatively connected to the lap belt portion204of the vehicle safety belt assembly200, as previously discussed. The end user then conventionally attaches the vehicle safety belt assembly200to the conventional seat belt latch206. Finally, the end user208conventionally pulls extension strap end160aso that extension strap160is now securely retained on lap belt portion204of seat belt assembly200, as previously discussed.

A unique inventive aspect of the present invention is the use of portable hi-back car seat assembly300and seat pad assembly150(or500) in conjunction with vehicle safety belt assembly200. In particular, once the end user has been properly restrained onto the vehicle car seat assembly50through the use of portable hi-back car seat assembly300and vehicle safety belt assembly200, the headrest306will provide impact protection for the end user's head. Also, the side rest324will provide impact protection for the end user's torso. Furthermore, due to the fact that the extension strap160is now connected to the lap belt portion204of vehicle safety belt assembly200, the extension strap160should somewhat keep the end user208from slouching forward on the vehicle car seat assembly50.

Another unique aspect of the present invention is that the headrest306and the side rest324are adjustable, as discussed earlier. In this manner, the hi-back car seat assembly300can be used for end users of various ages and sizes.

A still another unique aspect of the present invention is related to the fact that the hi-back car seat assembly300is constructed of flexible materials. In this manner, the hi-back car seat assembly300can be easily rolled-up, folded-up or otherwise compacted so that the hi-back car seat assembly300can be easily stored and transported.

It is to be understood that end user, instead of securing upper seat belt portion202in swiveling seat belt retainer350, he or she can use a safety vest250instead (FIG. 10) and secure upper seat belt portion202in a swiveling seat belt retainer254. It can be done in order to allow the end user to move and allow the upper seat belt portion202to follow the end user without changing the proper position of the upper seat belt portion202on the shoulder of the end user while being restrained by the seat belt assembly200and hi-back car seat assembly300without the seat belt assembly200contacting the neck or head area of the end user. This following of the upper seat belt portion202with the end user is extremely important during an accident such as when the vehicle is braking and swiveling prior to the final crash and the end user's torso is changing its position.

With respect toFIG. 14, during the operation of portable hi-back car seat assembly300, once the end user has located himself/herself onto the vehicle seat assembly50at the location of seat belt assembly200and portable hi-back car seat assembly300, the end user can then extend his/her arms through upper harness straps408. The end user then pulls on harness straps fasteners406inwardly so that harness straps fasteners406can be conventionally attached together to form a five (5) point harness. In this manner, the five (5) point harness assembly500provides yet another degree of restraint to keep the end user securely retained within the portable hi-back car seat assembly300in case the end user experiences a sudden stop.

All patents, publications, scientific articles, web sites, and other documents and materials referenced or mentioned herein are indicative of the levels of skill of those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains, and each such referenced document and material is hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if it had been incorporated by reference in its entirety individually or set forth herein in its entirety.

All of the features disclosed in this specification may be combined in any combination. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is only an example of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

It is to be understood that while the invention has been described in conjunction with the detailed description thereof, the foregoing description is intended to illustrate and not limit the scope of the invention. Thus, from the foregoing, it will be appreciated that, although specific embodiments of the invention have been described herein for the purpose of illustration, various modifications may be made without deviating from the spirit and scope of the invention. Other aspects, advantages, and modifications are within the scope of the present invention and the present invention is not so limited.

The specific methods and compositions described herein are representative of preferred embodiments and are exemplary and not intended as limitations on the scope of the invention. Other objects, aspects, and embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of this specification, and are encompassed within the spirit of the invention. It will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art that varying substitutions and modifications may be made to the invention disclosed herein without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. The invention illustratively described herein suitably may be practiced in the absence of any element or elements, or limitation or limitations, which is not specifically disclosed herein as essential. Thus, for example, in each instance herein, in embodiments or examples of the present invention, the terms “comprising”, “including”, “containing”, etc. are to be read expansively and without limitation. The methods and processes illustratively described herein suitably may be practiced in differing orders of steps, and that they are not necessarily restricted to the orders of steps indicated herein.

It is also to be understood that as used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the term “X and/or Y” means “X” or “Y” or both “X” and “Y”, and the letter “s” following a noun designates both the plural and singular forms of that noun. In addition, where features or aspects of the invention are described in terms of Markush groups, it is intended and those skilled in the art will recognize, that the invention embraces and is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

Other modifications and implementations will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description hereinabove is not intended to limit the invention.

Therefore, provided herein are new and improved portable hi-back car seat/restraint system/seat pad assemblies for use with existing vehicle seats and safety belts. The preferred portable hi-back car seat/restraint system/seat pad assemblies for use with existing vehicle seats and safety belts, according to various embodiments of the present invention, offers the following advantages: ease of use; lightness in weight; durability; thinness; the ability of the high back seat portable hi-back car seat assembly to allow an end user to be seated low on the seat; the ability of the safety vest to follow the end user without changing the proper position of the shoulder seat portion on the shoulder; compactness; the ability to be rolled up; improved safety belt characteristics; portability; ease of attachment to existing vehicle anchors; the ability to attach a variety of seat belts; increased safety; and the use of a unique strap extension retainer that securely retains the strap extension to the existing seat belt. In fact, in many of the preferred embodiments, these advantages of ease of use, lightness in weight, durability, thinness, the ability of the high back seat portable hi-back car seat assembly to allow an end user to be seated low on the seat, the ability of the safety vest to follow the end user without changing the proper position of the shoulder seat portion on the shoulder, compactness, the ability to be rolled up, improved safety belt characteristics, portability, ease of attachment to existing vehicle anchors, the ability to attach a variety of seat belts, increase safety, and the use of a unique strap extension retainer that securely retains the strap extension to the existing seat belt are optimized to an extent that is considerably higher than heretofore achieved in prior, known supplemental devices for use with existing vehicle safety belts.