Abstract:
A system for locking together the base and passenger seat of a multi-part carseat. The system includes a base and a passenger seat. The base has an upper surface that receives a passenger seat, front and rear ends, opposed sides extending between the ends, and two spaced apart locking points positioned toward the rear end of the base and two spaced apart locking points positioned toward the front end of the base. The passenger seat is dimensioned to be received by the upper surface of the base and includes four locking elements that are respectively positioned and configured for releasable engagement with a respective one of the four locking points of the base. An actuator releases the locking engagement between the locking elements of the seat and the locking points of the base.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/573,484, filed Oct. 5, 2009, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/108,293, filed Apr. 18, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,597,396, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/567,307 filed on Apr. 30, 2004, which is incorporated by reference as if fully set forth. 
    
    
     FIELD OF INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to infant travel systems which include an infant travel seat that can be mounted to a stationary or mobile base. More particularly, the present invention relates to a restraint system for securing a base component of the infant travel system to a vehicle seat, a leveling system for the base, a multi-point locking system to secure an infant travel seat to a complimentary base, and a travel seat carrying handle assembly. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Infant travel systems comprising an infant travel seat and complimentary base assembly are well-known in the art. In many infant travel systems, the engaging mechanisms between the infant travel seat and the base is difficult to operate or does not form a secure fit. Also, the location of the engagement between the seat and base in prior art systems is not optimally positioned to account for the various effects of front and rear end collisions. Therefore, there is a need for a more user friendly system for engaging and releasing the infant travel seat to and from the base. There is also a need for a more secure and well-balanced engagement between the engaging mechanism on the infant travel seat and the base. 
     In many infant travel systems, it is often difficult for a user to operate a self-contained restraint system carried by the base assembly to form a secure connection between the restraint system and an anchor mounted within the vehicle. For example, a user may be required to access the restraint system from only one side of the base assembly, or may have to be put in an awkward position within the vehicle to operate the restraint system. In addition, securing straps of the restraint system clutter the base assembly and can interfere with the engagement between an infant travel seat and the base assembly causing a potential safety hazard. Therefore, there is a need for a more user friendly self-contained base assembly restraint system to form a tight connection between the base and anchor mounted in a vehicle. In addition, there is a need for a base assembly restraint system having the securing straps concealed or displaced from interfering with the attachment of an infant travel seat to the base assembly. 
     In many infant travel systems, a leveling system is typically located on either the base or seat. When the indicator is positioned on the seat, the seat is required to be mounted to the base for a user to read the level. If the base needs to be adjusted, the seat typically has to be disengaged from the base, which can be frustrating for a user. When the level is located on the base, it is often concealed by the seat or can only be read from one side of the base. Finally, prior art leveling systems, typically in the form of a pendulum with an indicator, can be confusing for a user to read and are not user friendly. Therefore, there is a need for an improved and more user friendly leveling system to be located on the base assembly. 
     Adjustable carrying handles for infant travel seats are well known. In many infant travel seats, the position of the carrying handle can break free when minimum force is applied. This is because there is typically only a singular locking engagement between the handle and seat or the adjustable locking engagement between the handle and seat is perpendicular to the radial rotation of the handle. Therefore, there is a need for an adjustable handle locking mechanism having an improved engagement between the handle and seat. 
     SUMMARY 
     One aspect of the present invention is directed to an infant travel seat base. The base includes a frame dimensioned to rest upon a vehicle seat, defines front and rear portions, and a center line. An adjustment assembly is coupled to the frame and includes a locking element. The adjustment assembly is positioned at a selected one of the front and rear portions of the frame. The base further includes a tether having a free end which is releasably secured in the locking element of the adjustment assembly, and at least one securing end adapted to be secured to an anchor mounted within the vehicle so that movement of the tether through the locking element adjusts the position of the securing end with respect to the frame. 
     Another aspect of the present invention is directed to a restraint system for an infant travel seat base. The restraint system includes an infant travel seat base dimensioned to rest upon a vehicle seat. The base defines front and rear portions, upper and lower planes, and a center line. At least one adjustment assembly is coupled to the base and includes a locking element. The adjustment assembly is positioned at a selected one of the front and rear portions of the base. The restraint system further includes at least one tether having a central portion releasably secured in the locking element, and two end portions adapted to be secured to an anchor mounted within the vehicle so that movement of the tether through the locking element adjusts the position of the end portions with respect to the base. 
     Another aspect of the present invention is directed toward a base for supporting an infant travel seat including a frame and at least one liquid bubble level positioned within the frame. The frame includes a front end, a rear end, two opposed sides, an upper surface that receives an infant travel seat, and a lower surface configured to rest upon a vehicle seat. 
     Another aspect of the present invention is directed toward an infant travel seat. The infant travel seat includes a shell having a seating portion and two opposing side hubs. Each hub has a central axis, and at least one of the hubs has a plurality of circumferential projections extending toward the center of the hub and positioned radial to the central axis. The infant travel seat further includes a handle rotatably connected to the frame. The handle includes two arms, each arm having a hub receiving portion. The hub receiving portion of each arm is adapted to be secured to one of the hubs of the shell. The infant travel seat further includes at least one locking member connected to the handle, wherein the locking member has at least one engaging portion releasably engageable with at least one of the plurality of circumferential projections. The locking member is biased by a handle actuator disposed on the handle to form a radial engagement with at least one of the circumferential projections. The handle actuator is adapted to disengage the radial engagement of the locking member with the at least one circumferential projection by displacing the locking member sufficiently from the plurality of circumferential projections to allow the locking member to rotate on a radial axis with respect to the central axis and adjust the position of the radial engagement of the locking member with at least one the plurality of circumferential projections. 
     Another aspect of the present invention is directed toward an infant travel system. The infant travel system includes a base assembly and an infant travel seat. The base assembly includes front and rear ends and two opposed sides that define a generally rectangular cuboid having upper and lower surfaces. The lower surface is configured to rest upon a vehicle seat, and the upper surface is configured to receive a complimentary infant travel seat. The base assembly further includes opposed securing latches positioned at one end of the base for securing an infant travel seat. The infant travel seat includes a shell having a head end, a foot end, and opposing sides defining a seat. The seat has an interior and exterior. The shell further defines opposed receptacles positioned at the foot end of the seat; the opposed receptacles are configured to receive the opposed securing latches of the base. An actuating assembly is located on the interior of the seat to control the engagement between the opposed receptacles of the seat and the opposed securing latches of the base. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. In the drawings: 
         FIG. 1  is an exploded view of an infant travel seat and base assembly according to the invention. 
         FIG. 2  is an exploded view of the infant travel seat of  FIG. 1  in the direction of arrow A in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a plan view of the base assembly in the direction of the arrow B in  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 4  is an elevational view of the base assembly in the direction of arrow C in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 5  is an elevational view of the base assembly in the direction of arrow D in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 6  is a cross-sectional view of a vehicle belt lockoff clip of the base assembly along the line  6 - 6  of  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 7  is an internal view of the base assembly of  FIG. 2  with the upper and rear base covers removed. 
         FIG. 8  is a cross-sectional view of the base, taken along the line  8 - 8  of  FIG. 2  that illustrates repositioning of the foot in phantom. 
         FIG. 9  is a partial view of one of the sides of the base assembly showing a bubble level exploded from the base assembly. 
         FIG. 10  is a cross-sectional view of the bubble level taken along the line  10 - 10  in  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 11  is a partial cross-sectional view of the tether assembly of  FIG. 8  with the rear base cover and tether adjustment tab exploded from the base assembly. 
         FIG. 12  illustrates the orientation of engagement between the infant travel seat and base assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 13  illustrates the orientation of engagement between the infant travel seat and base assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 14  illustrates the infant travel seat engaged to the base assembly. 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of the infant travel seat shell with an actuator assembly and carrying handle according to the invention. 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of the infant travel seat actuator assembly. 
         FIG. 17  is a partial view of the infant travel seat shell and actuator assembly showing the area of connection between one of the side flippers and a leg end of the actuator assembly when the actuator assembly is in a resting state. 
         FIG. 18  is a cross-sectional view of the infant travel seat shell and actuator assembly showing the area of connection between one of the side flippers and a leg end of the actuator assembly when the actuator assembly is in the resting state taken along line  18 - 18  of  FIG. 17 . 
         FIG. 19  is a partial view of the infant travel seat shell and actuator assembly showing the area of connection between one of the side flippers and a leg end of the actuator assembly when the actuator assembly is in an activated state. 
         FIG. 20  is a cross-sectional view of the infant travel seat shell and actuator assembly showing the area of connection between one of the side flippers and a leg end of the actuator assembly when the actuator assembly is in the activated state taken along line  20 - 20  of  FIG. 19 . 
         FIG. 21  is a partial cross-sectional view of an attachment mechanism at the upper rear end of the base assembly shown attached to a corresponding receiving mechanism on the infant travel seat. 
         FIG. 22  is an exploded view of a first embodiment of the handle attachment assembly and canopy ring for a canopy frame. 
         FIG. 23  is an interior view of one element of the carrying handle of  FIG. 22 . 
         FIG. 24  is an interior view of a first embodiment of the handle attachment of the infant travel seat carrying handle as assembled to illustrate activation of the handle actuator. 
         FIGS. 25 ,  27 , and  28  are cross-sectional views illustrating a first embodiment of the handle attachment assembly and locking member in various secured engagement positions. 
         FIG. 26  is a cross-sectional view illustrating a first embodiment of the handle attachment assembly and locking member in a disengaged position. 
         FIG. 29  is a perspective view of the handle actuator as shown in  FIG. 23  as at E. 
         FIG. 30  illustrates the orientation of the locking mechanism taken along line  30 - 30  of  FIG. 29 . 
         FIG. 31  is a fragmentary side view of a canopy attachment mechanism for the infant travel seat. 
         FIG. 32  is a front view of a harness chest clip usable with the infant travel seat shown in an engaged position. 
         FIG. 33  is a front view of the harness chest clip of  FIG. 32  shown in an opened condition. 
         FIG. 34  is a plan view in the direction of the line  34  in  FIG. 32 . 
         FIG. 35  is an exploded fragment of a child restraint harness adjustment assembly. 
         FIGS. 36 ,  37 ,  39 , and  40  illustrate a second embodiment of the handle attachment assembly and locking member of the infant travel seat carrying handle in various engagement positions. 
         FIG. 38  illustrates a second embodiment of the handle attachment assembly and locking member of the infant travel seat carrying handle in a disengaged position. 
         FIG. 41  is a perspective view of the infant travel seat and complimentary stroller engagement assemblies. 
         FIG. 42  is a partial cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of the base assembly restraint system with the rear base cover exploded from the base assembly. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     Certain terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and is not limiting. The words “right,” “left,” “top,” “bottom,” “side,” “front,” and “rear” designate positions in the drawings to which reference is made. The words “inwardly” and “outwardly” refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center of the infant travel system and designated parts thereof. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 1-42 , wherein like numerals indicate like elements throughout, preferred embodiments of the invention will be described below. 
       FIGS. 1-5  show a preferred embodiment of the infant travel seat  10  and base assembly  12  of the present invention. Referring to  FIG. 1 , the base assembly preferably includes a frame  14  comprised of an upper base cover  16 , a lower base cover  18 , and a rear base cover  20 . The base assembly has a front end  13  and a rear end  15 . The upper base cover  16  preferably has a curved platform  22  positioned between opposing side channels  24 ,  26  to receive a complimentary infant travel seat  10 . The front end  23  of the curved platform  22  forms a point of highest reference with respect of the curved platform  22 . A pair of angled guiding extensions  28 ,  30  project outwardly from the curved platform  22  into the opposed side channels  24 ,  26  at the front end  13  of the base assembly to assist mounting of a complimentary infant travel seat  10  having mating grooves on the base assembly  12 . The lower base cover  18  is generally horizontal to rest on a vehicle seat  32 . A base storage compartment  31  can be formed between the curved platform  22  and the lower base cover  18 , and can be enclosed by a base storage door  33 . 
     The base assembly  12  also includes a self-contained restraint system  34  positioned at the rear end  15  of the base assembly  12  to secure the base assembly  12  to a vehicle having an anchor  36  mounted within a vehicle in proximity to the vehicle seat  32 . Referring to  FIG. 3 , a first embodiment of the restraint system  34  includes an adjustment assembly  38  coupled to the rear base cover  20  of the frame  14 . An upper surface  37  of the rear base cover  20  preferably includes an aperture  39  at the upper surface to receive the adjustment assembly  38  within the frame  14  at the center of the frame  14 . As shown in  FIGS. 7 and 11 , the adjustment assembly  38  is preferably comprised of an adjustment tab  40  and locking assembly  42 . With reference to  FIG. 11 , the locking assembly can be an A-frame type lock such as the A38298 Adjuster by Indiana Mills and Manufacturing, Inc; however, any suitable locking assembly can be used. The locking assembly  42  preferably includes an A-frame  44  having first and second ends  46 ,  48 . The A-frame member  44  is pivotally secured to a housing  50  by a fastener  52  which can be a screw, pin, or any acceptable fastening means. The A-frame member  44  is secured to the housing  50  such as to limit the rotation of the A-frame member  44  about the fastener  52 . The housing  46  is preferably is secured to the frame  14 . 
     The adjustment tab  40  overlays the locking assembly  42  and is pivotally secured to the rear base cover  20  by fastener  53 , which can be a screw, pin, or any acceptable fastening means. The adjustment tab  40  is substantially L-shaped and has first and second ends  54 ,  56 . The first end  54  of the adjustment tab  40  is preferably exposed through the aperture  39  of the rear base cover  20  and has a lip  58  to allow a user to grasp and pull the adjustment tab  40  in a direction toward the front end  13  of base assembly  12 . The second end  56  of the adjustment tab  40  is received vertically within the frame  14  and forms a substantially parallel plane of symmetry to the plane of the second end  48  of the A-frame member  48 . 
     The second end  56  of the adjustment tab also includes a hook  60  to which a spring  62  is attached to connect the second end  56  of the biasing member  50  to the frame  14 . The spring limits the rotation of the adjustment tab  40  about the fastener  53  and biases the adjustment tab  40  in a manner such as to keep the first end  54  of the adjustment tab  40  in a generally planar orientation with respect to the upper surface  37  of the rear base cover  14 . In a resting state, the first end  46  of the A-frame member  44  pivotally abuts the housing  50 . 
     Still with reference to  FIG. 11 , when a force is exerted on lip  58  of the first end  54  to pull the lip  58  upward and toward the front end  13  of the base assembly  12  (see  FIG. 1 ), the second end  56  of the adjustment tab  40  pivots in a direction toward the rear end  15  of the base assembly  12  thereby exerting a force on the second end  48  of the A-frame member  44  causing the second end  48  of the A-frame member  44  to pivot toward the rear end  15  of the base assembly  12 . When the second end  48  of the A-frame member  44  pivots toward the rear end  15  of the base assembly  12 , the first end  46  of the A-frame member  44  pivots away from the housing  50  creating a gap between the first end  46  of the A-frame member  44  and the housing  50 . 
     The restraint system  34  of the first embodiment further includes a tether  64 , preferably in the form of a Y-shaped strap  66  having divergent ends  68 ,  70  and a central leg end  72 . Alternatively, the tether  64  may be a simple two ended strap. The tether  64  is preferably made of a webbing material and preferably has a width between 1-1½ inches. The central leg end  72  of the Y-shaped strap  66  has an exposed portion  74  and an interior portion  76  that is received into the interior of the frame  14 . The interior portion  76  of the central leg end  72  is connected to the divergent ends  68 ,  70  of the Y-shaped strap member within the interior of the frame  14 . Working from the interior of the frame to the exterior, the interior portion  76  of the central leg end  72  passes between the first end  46  of the A-frame member  44  and the housing  50  of the locking assembly  42 , thereby being sandwiched between the first end  46  of the A-frame member  44  and the housing  50  of the locking assembly  42  when the adjustment assembly  38  is in the resting state. The interior portion  76  of the central leg end  72  continues upwardly passing through tab slot  78  on the first end  54  of the adjustment tab  40 . The exposed portion  74  of the central leg  72  then extends out of the frame  14 . The exposed portion of the central leg  72  can be tucked into a pocket  75  on the rear base cover  20  (see  FIG. 3 ). Similarly, working from the interior of the frame  14  to the exterior, each divergent end  68 ,  70  of the Y-shaped strap respectively exits the interior of the frame  14  preferably through side slots  80 ,  82  ( FIG. 3 ) formed between the upper base cover  16  and the rear base cover  20 . 
     Each of the divergent ends preferably have a latch securing assembly, which can be a left hand or right hand Mini-Connector, (models A38214AB, and A38213AB) made by Indiana Mills and Manufacturing, Inc. However, any similar securing assembly can be used. Each of the latch securing assemblies  84 ,  86  are secured to one or more anchors  36  mounted within a vehicle, preferably to the chassis, in proximity to a vehicle seat  32  ( FIG. 1 ). 
     When the restraint system  34  of the first embodiment is in use, each latch securing assembly  84  and  86  is secured to a vehicle anchor  36 . The latch securing assemblies can be stored in two opposed cavities  88 ,  90  formed at the rear end  15  of the frame from connection of the rear base cover  20  to the upper base cover  16  (see  FIG. 1 ,  4 ,  5 ) and removed when desired to attach to the vehicle. In order to extend the divergent ends  68 ,  70  of the Y-shaped strap member  66 , a user pulls on the respective divergent end  68 ,  70  while pulling upward on the lip  58  of the first end  54  of the adjustment tab  40 . As described in detail above, pulling upwardly on the lip  58  of the first end  54  of the adjustment tab  40  creates a gap between the first end  46  of the A-frame member  44  and the interior portion  76  of the central leg end  72  of the Y-shaped strap  66  to allow the interior portion  76  of the central leg end  72  of the Y-shaped strap  66  to move downwardly through the adjustment assembly  38 , thereby allowing a greater length of the divergent ends  68 ,  70  to pass through the side slots  80 ,  82  and be exposed from the interior of the frame  14 . 
     Once the latch securing assembly  84  and  86  are secured to a vehicle anchor(s)  36 , the exposed portion  74  of the central leg  72  of the Y-shaped strap  66  is used to adjust the position of the frame  14  with respect to a vehicle seat back  87 . Pulling the exposed portion  74  of the central leg  72  of the Y-shaped strap  66  upwardly causes the interior portion  76  of the central leg end  72  of the Y-shaped strap to move upwardly through the adjustment assembly  38 , thereby creating a greater length of the exposed portion  74  of he central leg end  72  and decreasing the exposed length of both of the divergent ends  68 ,  70  of the Y-shaped strap  66 . It should be noted that the first end  46  of the A-frame member  44  of the locking assembly  42  is adapted to allow the interior portion  76  of the central leg end  72  of the Y-shaped strap  66  to move upwardly without requiring a user to pull up on the lip  58  of the first end  54  of the adjustment tab  40 . 
       FIG. 42  depicts a second embodiment of a self-contained restraint system  91  of the base assembly  12  of the present invention preferably comprising at least one ratcheting retractor assembly  92  secured within the interior of the frame  14 . The ratcheting retractor assembly  92  preferably comprises a frame  93  having parallel side walls  94 ,  95 . A bias member or paw  96  is preferably pivotally coupled to the frame  93  between side walls  94  and  95 . A spool  97  is rotatably mounted between side walls  94 ,  95 . A pair of ratchet wheels  98 ,  99 , each having a plurality of circumferential teeth  100 ,  101 , are coupled to and rotate with spool  97 . 
     A spring (not shown) is connected to the spool  97  and frame  93  urges the spool  97  to rotate in a slack-reducing or retracting direction to withdraw a tether  102 . The tether  102  may but need not be fixedly attached or coupled to the spool  97 . The spool  97  is typically urged to move in the retracting direction to retract or withdraw the tether  102  onto the spool  97  in order to reduce the slack in the tether  102 . However, the spool  97  is yieldable to allow the tether  102  to be pulled away from the frame  93  in a direction opposite the slack-reducing or retracting direction. 
     Bias member  96  is coupled to frame  93  such as to be urged against the ratchet wheels  98 ,  99  in order to engage a pair of opposed teeth  100 ,  101 . The bias member  96  and ratchet wheels  98 ,  99  operate to prevent rotation of the spool  97  in a direction opposite the slack-reducing or retracting direction. Bias member  96  can be connected to a manual actuator to allow a user to disengage the contact between the bias member  96  and the teeth  100 ,  101  of the ratchet wheels  98 ,  99  to allow a user to pull the tether  102  away from the frame  93  in a direction opposite the slack-reducing or retracting direction. 
     As shown in  FIG. 42 , the frame  93  is adapted to be mounted within the interior of the frame  14  of base assembly  12 . The tether  102  preferably has a first  103  and second end  104  and a central portion  105 . The central portion  105  of the tether  102  is received within the interior of the frame  14  and is wrapped around spool  97  when the tether  102  is retracted. The tether  102  from the interior to the exterior of the frame  14  through side slots  80 ,  82  formed between the upper base cover  16  and the rear base cover  20  and are preferably coupled to a latching mechanism in a similar manner as the divergent ends  68 ,  70  of the Y-shaped strap member  66  discussed above with respect to the first embodiment of the restraint system  34 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2 ,  5 , and  6 , the base  12  can also be secured to a vehicle having a shoulder harness  120  by one of two opposing belt lockoff members  122 ,  124 . As illustrated, the upper base  16  cover has a pair of opposed arm extensions  126 ,  128  connected to the rear base cover  20 . The opposed arm extensions  126 ,  128  and rear base cover  20  define opposed apertures  130 ,  132  in the frame  14  at the rear end  15  of the frame  14 . The belt lockoff members  122 ,  124  are each preferably positioned beneath one of the opposed arm extensions  126 ,  128  of the upper base cover  16  and are secured thereto.  FIGS. 5 and 6  illustrate the interaction between one of the belt lockoff member  124  and one of the opposed arm extensions  128  for exemplary purposes, however, it is preferred that both belt lockoff members and arm extensions are identical. Each of the opposed arm extensions  126 ,  128  includes an interior and an exterior side  134 ,  136  forming a cavity  135  therebetween. Between the interior and exterior sides  134 ,  136  and extending through the cavity  135  is a central projection  138  that extends a portion of the length of each of the opposed arm extensions  126 ,  128 . Referring to  FIG. 6 , each belt lockoff member has an upper rough surface  140 , and lower smooth surface  12 . The upper rough surface  140  preferably has projecting teeth  144 ,  146  that extend along a portion of the length of the belt lockoff members  122 ,  124  parallel to the central projection  122  of the opposed arm extensions  126 ,  128 . As shown in  FIG. 6 , the teeth  144 ,  146  of the belt lockoff members  122 ,  124  partially extend into the cavity  135  of the opposed arm extensions  126 ,  128  and the central projection of the opposed arm extensions extends between a groove  148  formed between the teeth  144 ,  146  of the belt lockoff members  122 ,  124 . 
     When the base  12  is secured to a vehicle using the vehicle&#39;s safety strap having a shoulder harness  120 , one of the opposing belt lockoff members  122 ,  124  can be used to secure the shoulder harness  120  to the base assembly  12  in order to prevent the shoulder harness  120  from loosening the fit between the base assembly  12  and the vehicle&#39;s safety strap. The shoulder harness  120  is abutted by the teeth  144 ,  146  of the belt lockoff member  122 ,  124  and the interior and exterior sides  134 ,  136  and central projection of the arm extension  126 ,  128  to form a snug fit to prevent the shoulder harness  120  from moving once engaged. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1-3 ,  9 , and  10 , at least one liquid bubble level  160 ,  162 , is located within the frame  14 . A portion of the liquid bubble level  160 ,  162  is preferably received within the frame  14  and positioned in one of two opposed side portions  164 ,  166  of the upper base cover  16  at the front end  13  of the frame  14 . However, the liquid bubble level could be positioned at any suitable location on the frame. Because the base assembly  12 , can be installed in either a left or right side of a vehicle or because a user may access one side of the vehicle when using the base assembly  12 , liquid bubble levels  160 ,  162  are preferably located on the opposed side portions  164 ,  166  of the upper base cover  16  for the convenience of the user. The liquid bubble levels  160 ,  162  are preferably curvilinearly shaped to match the curvilinear shape of the respective opposed side portions  164 ,  166 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-5 ,  7 , and  8 , a height adjusting assembly  170  of the base  12  is shown. The height adjustment assembly  70  preferably includes an adjustable foot  172  working in cooperation with an adjustment mechanism  174  to raise and lower the adjustable foot  172 . The adjustment mechanism  174  includes at least one side recline button, and preferably two opposed side recline buttons  176 ,  178  received within opposing side apertures  180 ,  182  on the opposing side portions  164 ,  166  of the upper base cover  16 . The opposed side recline buttons  176 ,  178  have an upper portion  184 ,  186  and a lower portion  188 ,  190 . The upper portion  184 ,  186  of each side recline button  176 ,  178  is exposed at the upper side of the opposed side portions  164 ,  166  of the upper base cover  16  for user interface. The lower portion  188 ,  190  of each side recline button  176 ,  178  extends into the interior of the frame  14 . As shown in  FIGS. 7 and 8 , the lower side  188 ,  190  of each opposing side recline button  176 ,  178  preferably abuts recline bar  192 . Recline brackets  194 ,  196  extend from the recline bar  192  to recline piston rod  198 , having first and second ends  197 ,  199 . Springs  200 ,  202  extend along a portion of each recline bracket  194 ,  196  to keep each end  197 ,  199  of the recline piston rod  198  biased against one of a plurality of opposed angled receiving slots  204 ,  205  extending from an angled portion  206  of the adjustable foot  172 . 
     Still with reference to  FIGS. 7 and 8 , the adjustable foot  172  includes an angled portion  206  having a plurality of opposed angled receiving slots  204 ,  205  and a horizontal portion  208  adapted to rest upon a vehicle seat  32  in the same plane as the lower base cover  18 . The adjustable foot  172  is pivotally secured to the upper base cover  16  of the frame  14  at a connection end  210  of the foot opposite the angled portion  206 . A U-shaped spring  212  is preferably attached to the connection end  210  of the adjustable foot  172  to urge against the upper base cover  16  to bias adjustable foot  172  downwardly. 
     When at least one of the opposed side recline buttons  176 ,  178  of the adjustment mechanism  174  are depressed by a user, the recline bar  192  is urged toward the front end  13  of the frame  14 , thereby pulling recline brackets  194 ,  196  and recline piston rod  198  toward the front end  13  of the frame  14 . When piston rod  198  is pulled toward the front end  13  of the frame  14 , each end  197 ,  199  of the recline piston rod  198  is sufficiently displaced from the opposed angled receiving slots  204 ,  205  so as to allow the adjustable foot to pivot in a manner to adjust an angle of the base  12  with respect to the vehicle seat  32 . When the foot is re-positioned at a desired angle, the user can release the at least one opposed side recline button  176 ,  178  causing the each end  197 ,  198  of the recline piston rod  198  to reengage with one of the plurality of opposed angled receiving slots  204 ,  205  extending from an angled portion  206  of the adjustable foot  172 . The spacing and number of plurality of opposed angled receiving slots  204 ,  205  is predetermined. At least one of the opposed liquid bubble levels  160 ,  162  can be used to assist a user in determining a recline position. 
     The angled portion  206  of the adjustable foot  172  has a substantially vertical orientation with the rear facing portion  17  of the upper base cover  16  and rear facing portion  21  of the rear base cover  20  due to the angled nature of the angled portion  206  and receiving slots  204 ,  205 . The vertical orientation of the base assembly  12  is substantially parallel to the vertical inclination of most vehicle seat backs  87 . The adjustable foot  172  can be used to adjust the height of the top of the rear base cover  20  to be approximately from 7 to 10 inches from the bottom of the adjustable foot  172 . The vertical nature of the rear end  15  of the base assembly  12  along with the range of height (approximately 7-10 inches) and width of the base assembly  12  (approximately 14 inches) all cooperate to resist the flipping effect associated with infant car seats in rear end collisions. These height and width measurements are used for exemplary purposes, and the height and width of the rear end  15  of the base assembly may vary. 
     Referring to FIGS.  2  and  12 - 21 , and infant travel seat  10  used in conjunction with the base assembly  12  is shown. FIGS.  2  and  12 - 14  show the positional arrangement of the base assembly  12  and infant travel seat  12  is shown. The frame  14  of the base assembly  14  includes a curved platform  22  positioned between opposing side channels  24 ,  26 . Two angled guide extensions  28 ,  30  extend from the curved platform  22  at the rear end  15  of the frame  12 . The angled guide extensions  28 ,  30  each preferably have a curved surface  220 ,  222  facing toward end  15  of the frame  14 , an angled surface  224 ,  226 , and a vertical surface  228 ,  230 . In addition, base cover  16  of the frame  14  further includes two opposed rear guide extensions  232 ,  234 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 15 , the infant travel seat  10  includes a shell  235  having an interior side  236  an exterior side  238 , a head end  240  and a foot end  242 . The exterior side  238  of the shell  235  preferably includes a pair of opposed rails  256 ,  258  and a pair of opposed grooves  244 ,  246  to mate with the angled guiding extensions  28 ,  30  of the base assembly  12 , and a pair of opposed grooves  248 ,  250  at the foot end  42  to mate with the rear guide extensions of the base assembly  12 . As illustrated in  FIGS. 12 and 13 , each of the opposed grooves  244 ,  246  (only one being shown) have an arcuate surface  252  and a generally straight, but angled, surface  254 . The seat  10  can be mounted on the base assembly  12  by contacting the curved surface  252  of the opposed grooves  244 ,  246  with the curved surface  220 ,  222  of the angled guiding extensions  28 ,  30  of the base assembly  12  and pushing the seat  10  toward end  15  of the base assembly  12  ( FIG. 12 ), or by contacting the angled surface  254  of the opposed side grooves  244 ,  246  of the seat  10  with the angled surface  224 ,  226  of the angled guiding extensions  28 ,  30  of the base  12  and pushing the seat  10  in a direction toward end  13  of the base assembly  12  ( FIG. 13 ). When the seat  10  is mounted to the base assembly  12 , the opposed rails  256 ,  258  of the seat  10  are received within the respective opposed side channel  24 ,  26  of the base assembly  12  ( FIG. 14 ) and the seat  10  rests upon platform  22  of the base assembly  12  ( FIG. 14 ). 
     Referring to  FIGS. 2 ,  3 ,  14 - 21 , the infant travel seat  10  is preferably secured to the base assembly  12  at four engaging points. The opposed side portions  164 ,  166  of the upper base cover  16  each have an opposed side recess  260 ,  262  facing a respective one of the opposed side channels  24 ,  26 . In addition, the base assembly  12  includes a pair of pivotable securing latches  264 ,  266 , which can be hooks or any other suitable securing device, positioned at the rear end  15  of the base  12 , and preferably extending through a pair of apertures  272 ,  274  extending through the rear base cover  16 . Hooks  264 ,  266  are preferably positioned so a head  268 ,  270  of the hook  264 ,  266  faces the rear end  15  of the base  12  ( FIG. 7 ). 
     The shell  235  of the seat  10  defines opposed side apertures  276 ,  278  extending through a side portion  280 ,  282  of the shell  235 . The shell further defines opposed receptacles  284 ,  286  ( FIG. 2 ) extending through the foot end  242  of the shell  235 . The head end  240  of the shell  235  further defines an aperture  288  for receiving a spring-biased handle  290  of an actuator assembly  292  ( FIGS. 2 ,  15 ). The actuator assembly  292  ( FIG. 16 ) is positioned on the interior side  236  of the shell  235  and the handle  290  of the actuator assembly  292  is accessible through aperture  288 . The actuator assembly  292  preferably has two arms  294 ,  296  extending from the handle  292  down the sides of the interior  236  of the shell  235 . The arms preferably have angled slots  298 ,  300  to receive pins  302 ,  304  from spring-biased side mounting assemblies  306 ,  308 , respectively. Side mounting assemblies  306 ,  308  include retractable securing projections  310 ,  312 , such as in the form of a flipper. The retractable securing projections  301 ,  312  extend from the interior of the shell  235  into side apertures  276 ,  278 . As shown in  FIGS. 17 and 18 , in a resting state, the spring biased side mounting assemblies  306 ,  308  bias the retractable securing projections  310 ,  312  to extend through side apertures  276 ,  278 . The retractable securing projections  310 ,  312  are adapted to form a complimentary secured engagement with the opposed side recess  260 ,  262  of the frame  14  of the base assembly  12  when the seat  10  is mounted on the base assembly  12 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 19 and 20 , when the spring-biased handle  290  of the actuator assembly  292  is pulled upwardly, pins  302 ,  304  of the spring-biased side mounting assemblies  306 ,  308  slide toward the center of the shell  235  along angled slots  298 ,  300  causing retractable securing projections  310 ,  312  to retract toward the interior of the shell  235 , thus releasing the secured engagement between the retractable securing projections  310 ,  312  and the opposed side recess  260 ,  262  of the frame  14  of the base assembly  12 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 15 ,  16 , and  21 , and  FIG. 16  in particular, the arms  294 ,  296  of the actuator assembly  292  are each preferably connected to a cable  314 ,  316 , having first  318 ,  320  and second  322 ,  324  ends. The first end  318 ,  320  of each cable  314 ,  316  being connected to arms  294 ,  296 , and the second end  322 ,  324  of each cable  314 ,  316  being connected to biasing members  326 ,  328 , respectively. The biasing members  326 ,  328  are positioned at and received within the opposed receptacles  284 ,  286  of the shell  235 , respectively. Each biasing members  326 ,  328  includes a first end  330 ,  332  and second end  334 ,  336  end. The first ends  330 ,  332  of the biasing members  326 ,  328  are pivotally connected to the shell  335 , and the second ends  334 ,  336  of the biasing members  326 ,  328  are coupled to cables  314 ,  316  of actuator assembly  292 . The biasing members  326 ,  328  are biased toward the foot end  242  of the shell  235  in a resting state. The opposed receptacles  284 ,  286  of the shell  235  are configured to receive the opposed securing latches or hooks  264 ,  266  of the base assembly  12  when the seat  10  is mounted on the base assembly  12 . The engagement of the securing latches or hooks  264 ,  266  of the base assembly  12  to the receptacles  284 ,  286  of the seat  10  prevents the seat  10  from rotating or moving upwardly. 
     Referring to  FIG. 21 , when the spring-biased handle  290  of the actuator assembly  292  is pulled upwardly, biasing members  326 ,  328  are pivoted toward the head end  240  of the shell  235  forcing the securing latches or hooks  264 ,  266  of the base assembly  12  out of receptacles  284 ,  286 , thus releasing the engagement between the securing latches or hooks  264 ,  266  of the base assembly  12  and the receptacles  284 ,  286  of the seat  10 . 
     The retractable securing projections  310 ,  312  of the infant travel seat  10  are adapted to be mounted to a stroller  338  having opposed complimentary receiving slots  339  (only one being shown). A lip  340  on the exterior of the shell  235  proximate to the head end  240  of the shell  235  is adapted to rest on tray  342  of the stroller  338  (see  FIG. 41 ). 
     Referring to  FIG. 32-35 , the seat preferably has an infant restraint harness  350 , in phantom, made of a webbing material. The vehicle restraint harness is preferably a Y-shaped strap having divergent ends  352 ,  354  and a central leg end  356 . As shown in  FIGS. 32-34 , a locking mechanism  358  is secured to each of the divergent ends  352 ,  354  of the Y-shaped strap. The locking mechanism  358  has male and female connectors  360 ,  362 . The female connector  362  has front and back sides  364 ,  366  defining a groove  368 . The front side  364  of the female connector  362  further defines an aperture  370 . The male connector  360  has front and back sides  272 ,  274  and a receiving end  276 , the receiving end  276  adapted to be received within the groove  368  of the female connector  362 . The front side  272  of the male connector  360  preferable includes a flexible button  378  receivable within the aperture  370  of the female connector  362 . When end  376  of the male connector  360  is inserted within the groove  368  of the female connector  362 , the flexible button  378  of the male connector  360  is received by the aperture  370  of the female connector  362 . To disengage, a user depresses the flexible button  378 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 35 , the seat  10  further includes a harness adjusting assembly  380 . The harness adjusting assembly  380  comprises a locking assembly  382  and an adjusting tab  384 . The adjustment assembly  380  operates in a similar fashion to the base adjustment assembly  38 , described above and incorporated by reference, and is not repeatedly described at length herein. 
       FIGS. 22-31  illustrate a first embodiment of opposed handle attachment assemblies  400 ,  402  for securing each arm  406 ,  408  of a carrying handle  404  to an infant travel seat  10 . The handle attachment assemblies  400 ,  402  preferably include a hub receiving portion  410 ,  412  of each arm  406 ,  408  adapted to be secured to opposing side hubs  414 ,  416  of the shell  235  of the seat  10  (see  FIG. 1 ). Only one of the opposed handle attachment assemblies  400 ,  402  will be described in detail below, however, both of the attachment assemblies  400 ,  402  are preferably identical. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 22-24  and  29 - 30 , the hub receiving portion  412  includes an actuating assembly  418  comprising a pivotable member  420 , a stationary member  422 , and a spring-biased locking member  424 . The arm  408  of the handle  404  defines an aperture  426  proximate to the hub receiving portion  412  for receiving the pivotable member  420  and stationary member  422 . The stationary member has a cover end  428  and an interior end  430  received within arm  408 . The pivotable member  420  includes a lever end  432  and a biasing end  434  end. The pivoting member  420  is adapted to be pivotally secured to stationary member  422  at pivot point  436  ( FIG. 23 ). Pivotable member  420  and stationary member  422  are received within aperture  426  such that the cover end  428  of the stationary member  422  is substantially flushed with the exterior surface of the arm  408  and lever end  432  of pivotable member extends outwardly through aperture  426 . Stationary member  422  is secured to arm  408  at securing points  438 ,  440  when received in arm  408 . Pivotable member  420  is pivotally secured to stationary member  422  and arm  408  at pivot point  436  when received in arm  408 . As shown in  FIGS. 23 and 24 , edge  442  of the stationary member  422  limits the downward rotation of pivotable member  420  by abutting complimentary edge  444 , of pivotable member  420 . Similarly, the interior surface  446  of the cover end  428  of stationary member  222  limits the upward rotation of pivotable member  420  by abutting projection  448 . 
     Pivotable member  420  preferably extends through aperture  426  such that biasing end  434  is positioned within the hub receiving portion  412 . Spring-biased locking member  424  has a first end  450  for engaging a complimentary locking mechanism, and a second end  452  positioned within the hub receiving portion  412  to abut biasing end  434  of the pivotable member  420 . The second end  452  of the locking member  424  has an angled cam surface  454  that abuts a complimentary angled cam follower surface on the biasing end  434  of the pivotable member  420 . The second end  452  of the locking member  424  also preferably includes a pair of springs  458   460  to bias the locking member  424  away from the hub receiving portion  412  and toward opposed side hub  416  of the shell  235 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 24 ,  29  and  30 , when a user pushes lever end  432  of the pivotable member  420  downwardly, the biasing end  434  of pivotable member  420  rotates upwardly moving the angled cam follower surface  456  along angled cam surface  454  and forcing the locking member  424  to be pulled toward the hub receiving portion  412  and away from opposed side hub  416  of the shell  235 . 
     Referring to FIGS.  22  and  25 - 28 , opposed side hub  414  has a central projection  462  positioned on a central axis CA ( FIG. 22 ) and a plurality of circumferential projections  464  extending toward the center of the hub  416  and positioned radially to the central projection  462 . As shown in  FIG. 22 , the central projection  462  is used to secure the hub receiving portion  412  to the side hub  416  of the shell  235  along the central axis CA so that the carrying handle  404  can rotate on a radial axis with respect to the central axis CA. As shown in  FIGS. 25-28 , the circumferential projections consist of six diametrically opposed minor projections  466  and alternated between six diametrically opposed major projections  468 . However, the number of major and minor projections  466 ,  468  can vary. 
     The locking member  424  preferably has a central aperture  470  to receive the central projection  462  of the hub  416 . The locking member  424  also preferably includes two opposed grooves  472 ,  474  positioned in an axis perpendicular to the axis of the first and second ends  450 ,  452  of the locking member  424 . Each of the opposed grooves  472 ,  474  are configured to receive and be complimentary to the minor projections  466  of the hub  416 . When the hub receiving portion  412  is secured to the side hub  416 , the opposed grooves  472 ,  474  of the locking member  424  are secured to a pair of diametrically opposed minor projections  466  in an axis perpendicular to the central axis CA of connection between the hub receiving portion  412  of the carrying handle  404  and the side hub  416  of the shell  235 . 
     To adjust the position of the carrying handle  404 , the locking member  424  can be displaced from the minor projections  466  by pressing lever end  432  to pull the locking member  424  toward the hub receiving portion  412  and away from opposed side hub  416  of the shell  235 . The plurality of circumferential projections  464  are of such a height so as to permit the locking member  424  to rotate radially about the central projection  462  when displaced from the minor projections  466  (see  FIG. 26 ). As shown in  FIGS. 25-28 , the locking member  424  can be secured to the minor projections  466  to allow the carrying handle  404  to be adjusted between three positions. The side hub  316  preferably includes two diametrically opposed abutting projections positioned on the circumference of the hub  416  having a sufficient length extending parallel to the central axis CA to abut the locking member  424  when displaced from projections  466  and prevent the locking member  424  from rotating greater than 180 degrees. 
       FIGS. 36-40  illustrate a second embodiment of opposed handle assemblies  500 ,  502  for securing each arm  406 ,  408  of a carrying handle  404  to an infant travel seat  10 . The handle attachment assemblies  500 ,  502  (only one being shown) preferably include a hub receiving portion  510 ,  512  (only one being shown) of each arm  406 ,  408  adapted to be secured to opposing side hubs  514 ,  516  (only one being shown) of the shell  235  of the seat  10  (see  FIG. 1 ). The hub receiving portions  510 ,  512  are secured to the opposing side hubs along a central axis CA similar to the first embodiment. Only one of the opposed handle attachment assemblies  500 ,  502  will be described in detail below, however, both of the attachment assemblies  500 ,  502  are preferably identical. 
     The hub receiving portion  512  includes actuating assembly  516  comprising a button  518  and a spring biased locking member  520 . The button has first and second ends  520 ,  524 . The second end  524  of the button has opposed sides  526 ,  528  and is adapted to be received within a slot  530  in arm  408  proximate to the hub receiving portion  512 . The sides  526 ,  528  of the button  518  define a channel  532 . The first end  522  of the button  518  extends outwardly through slot  530  of arm  408 . 
     The spring biased locking member  520  preferably comprises a locking end  534  and a biasing end  536 . The locking end has a locking head  538  that extends parallel to the central axis CA. The locking end  534  also includes a centrally located ovate aperture  540  extending along the central axis CA. When the hub receiving portion  512  is connected to side hub  516  of the shell  235 , a central projection  542  of the hub  516  extending along the central axis CA is received into the ovate aperture  540  of the locking end  538 . 
     The biasing end  536  of the spring biased locking member  520  is preferably defines a groove  544  surrounded by two opposed abutting members  546 ,  548 . The groove is adapted to be received within the channel  532  of sides  526 ,  528  of the button  518 . A spring  529  is connected to the biasing end  536  to bias the spring biased locking member away from button  518 . 
     In addition, side  526  of button  518  has an angled surface  550  that abuts a complimentary angled surface  552  of the abutting member  548 , and urges the button out of slot  530  in a resting state. When the first end  522  of the button  518  is pressed downwardly by a user, angled surface  550  of button  518  slides against a complimentary angled surface  552  of abutting member  548  and pulls the locking member  520  in a direction perpendicular to the central axis CA toward button  518 . 
     The side hub  516  has a central projection  542  positioned on the central axis CA and a plurality of circumferential projections  554  extending toward the center of the hub  516  and positioned radially to the central projection. As shown in  FIGS. 37-40 , the plurality of circumferential projections  554  can consist of four diametrically opposed minor projections  556  and two diametrically opposed major projections  558 . However, the number of projections  554  may vary. 
     The locking head  538  of the locking member  520  is configured to have two opposed engaging heads  560 ,  562 . Each of the engaging heads  560 ,  562  is configured to fit between two of the plurality of circumferential projections  554  in an axis perpendicular to the central axis CA to secure the handle  404  in a stationary position. 
     The carrying handle  404  is adapted to be radially adjusted about the central axis CA. To adjust the position of the carrying handle  404 , the engaging heads  560 ,  562  of the locking member  520  are displaced from projections  554  by pressing the first end  522  of button  518  downward to pull the locking member  520  toward button  518  and allowing central projection  542  to slide along the ovate aperture  540 . The minor projections  556  have a width extending perpendicular to the central axis CA so as to permit the locking head  538  to rotate radially about the minor projections  556  when displaced from the securement between the projections  554 . As shown in  FIGS. 37-40 , the locking head  538  can be secured between projections  554  to allow the carrying handle  404  to be adjusted between three positions. The side hub  516  preferably includes two diametrically opposed major projections  558  having a sufficient width extending perpendicular to the central axis CA to abut the locking head  538  when displaced from projections  554  and prevent the locking head  538  from rotating greater than 180 degrees. 
       FIGS. 1 ,  22 , and  31  illustrate a ratcheting canopy  580  that can be attached to the infant travel seat  10 . The ratcheting canopy preferably comprises a pair of rings  582 ,  584  that can be secured to the exterior surface of side of hubs  414 ,  416  of the shell  235 . For purposes of simplicity, only one ratcheting canopy connection will be described below. The exterior surface of side hub  416  includes a plurality of circumferential projections  586  extending radially around the hub  416 . The interior surface of ring  584  includes a plurality of circumferential projections  588  extending radially around the ring  584  to mate with the circumferential projections  586  of the hub  416  to form a secure connection between the ring  584  and the hub  416 . 
     While various methods, configurations, and features of the present invention have been described above and shown in the drawings for the various embodiments of the present invention, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that any combination of the above features can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, it is recognized by those skilled in the art that changes may be made to the above described methods and embodiments of the invention without departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. It is understood, therefore, that this invention is not limited to the particular methods and embodiments disclosed, but is intended to cover all modifications which are within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims and/or shown in the attached drawings.