Patent Publication Number: US-2011057488-A1

Title: Bouncing baby chair

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The invention relates generally to seating and in particular to a bouncing baby chair that allows parents to soothe agitated babies. 
     2. Related Art 
     As is known, a colicky or agitated baby can be difficult to soothe, and may cry, scream, or both for long periods of time. It is believed that one possible cause of colic is abdominal pain or abdominal gas related to digestion. Various remedies such as changes in diet or administration of digestion aids have been used to reduce or “treat” colic. However, it is often difficult or impossible to determine what changes in diet will work. In addition, administration of medical treatment such as probiotics may be undesirable for parents and their baby. 
     One less invasive remedy that has been shown to soothe colicky babies is gentle rocking of the baby. Though not as drastic as changing the baby&#39;s diet or medical treatment, rocking is not effective all the time. In addition, the rocking motion may cause the baby to have acid reflux which causes further agitation to the baby. Further, rocking may be tiring for sleep-deprived parents, especially when a baby is agitated for an extended period. 
     From the discussion that follows, it will become apparent that the present invention addresses the deficiencies associated with the prior art while providing numerous additional advantages and benefits not contemplated or possible with prior art constructions. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     A bouncing baby chair for soothing agitated or colicky babies is provided herein. The bouncing baby chair provides a bouncing motion which soothes babies that cannot otherwise be calmed. Unlike rocking or other motions, the bouncing motion does not cause or exacerbate a baby&#39;s digestion problems. The baby chair also provides support for a parent&#39;s body in a seated position which reduces parental fatigue. 
     In one embodiment, the baby chair comprises a frame and a seat assembly supported within the frame. The frame may comprise two trapezoidal side supports having a closed top portion and an open bottom portion, one or more lower cross members extending between the trapezoidal side supports at a bottom end of the trapezoidal side supports, one or more upper cross members extending between the trapezoidal side supports at a top end of the trapezoidal side supports, the one or more upper cross members at a rear of the baby chair. 
     The seat assembly may comprise a seat configured to accept a user in a seated position, a backrest configured to support a user&#39;s back, and a seat frame comprising an upper frame and a lower frame. The lower frame may be configured to support the seat, and the upper frame may extend upward from a front end of the lower frame and towards a back end of the lower frame. A back portion of the upper frame may support the backrest. One or more resilient biasing devices may be between the seat assembly and the frame. The resilient biasing devices may be attached at a first end to the frame and attached at a second end to the seat assembly such that the seat assembly may bounce within the frame while attached to the one or more resilient biasing devices. 
     The resilient biasing devices may be attached at the first end to the upper cross member of the frame. In addition, the resilient biasing devices may be one or more resilient biasing devices of a first strength and one or more resilient biasing devices of a second strength. Also, the supports of the first strength may be at a front portion of the seat assembly while the supports of the second strength may be at a rear portion of the seat assembly. The resilient biasing devices may be springs. 
     One or more wheels at the bottom end of the trapezoidal side supports may be provided to allow the baby chair to be easily moved. In addition, the backrest and seat may be formed from a single rigid material. 
     In one embodiment, the baby chair comprises a seat frame comprising an upper frame and a lower frame with the lower frame extending upward and back from a front portion of the lower frame. A seat may be attached to the lower frame and a backrest attached to the upper frame. The upper frame of the seat frame may be curved to form one or more curved armrests. The baby chair may also include one or more side supports having a closed top portion and an open bottom portion, and one or more armrests formed by a portion of the upper frame between the backrest and the seat. The side supports may also be completely closed in some embodiments. Also, the side supports may be trapezoidal in shape. 
     One or more upper cross members may extend between the one or more side supports at a top end of the one or more side supports. The one or more upper cross members may be at a rear portion of the one or more side supports, and may be longer than the width of the seat to allow the seat to fit between the one or more side supports. One or more lower cross members may extend between the one or more side supports at a bottom end of the one or more side supports. 
     One or more rear resilient biasing devices attached at a first end to the one or more upper cross members and at a second end to the lower frame of the seat frame, and one or more front resilient biasing devices attached at a first end to the one or more side supports and at a second end to the lower frame of the seat frame at the front portion of the lower frame may be provided as well. It is noted that the baby chair may only have one rear resilient biasing device in some configurations. The resilient biasing devices configured to allow the user to bounce when seated on the baby chair. The front resilient biasing devices may be of a first strength and the rear resilient biasing devices of a second strength. In some embodiments, the front resilient biasing devices and the rear resilient biasing devices comprise covered springs. 
     A method of soothing a baby at a bouncing baby chair is also provided. In one embodiment, the method comprises accepting a user carrying a baby on a seat assembly of a baby chair. The seat assembly may comprise a seat frame supporting a seat and a backrest of the seat assembly with an upper frame of the seat frame forming one or more armrests. The method may also include supporting the user&#39;s weight with the seat, supporting the user&#39;s back with the backrest, and bouncing the seat assembly in an up and down motion within a frame of the baby chair to soothe the baby. The frame may comprise two side supports having a closed top portion and an open bottom portion, and the seat assembly may be attached to the frame by one or more resilient biasing devices. 
     The bouncing baby chair may be moved from one location to another on one or more wheels attached at a bottom end of the bouncing baby chair. The user&#39;s arms may be supported on an armrest formed by an upper frame of the seat frame. Physical contact with the one or more resilient biasing devices may be prevented with the closed top portion of the two side supports to increase safety. For example, physical contact with the resilient biasing devices may be prevented with one or more tubular covers surrounding the resilient biasing devices. 
     Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the invention will be or will become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description, be within the scope of the invention, and be protected by the accompanying claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. In the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views. 
         FIG. 1A  is a perspective view of an exemplary bouncing baby chair; 
         FIGS. 1B-1C  are perspective views of exemplary openings for securing a resilient biasing device; 
         FIG. 1C  is a perspective view of exemplary mounts for securing a resilient biasing device; 
         FIGS. 2A-2C  are side views of an exemplary bouncing baby chair in operation; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of an exemplary bouncing baby chair; 
         FIGS. 4A-4C  are side views of an exemplary bouncing baby chair in operation; 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of an exemplary bouncing baby chair; and 
         FIGS. 6A-6C  are side views of an exemplary bouncing baby chair in operation. 
         FIG. 7A  is a front perspective view of an exemplary bouncing baby chair. 
         FIG. 7B  is a front perspective view of an exemplary seat assembly. 
         FIG. 7C  is a front perspective view of an exemplary frame. 
         FIG. 7D  is a rear perspective view of an exemplary bouncing baby chair. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough description of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention. 
     The bouncing baby chair herein allows parents to soothe a colicky baby through a gentle bouncing motion. This is advantageous in that bouncing may be effective in soothing a colicky baby where rocking or other remedies have not been effective. Also, in contrast to a traditional rocking motion, the bouncing motion provided by the bouncing baby chair does not exacerbate the problem by causing acid reflux or other digestive problems. The bouncing baby chair allows this gentle bouncing motion to be easily generated with little strain on parents. 
     In one or more embodiments, the bouncing baby chair supports a parent and his or her baby. The parent may then soothe the baby with the baby in his or her arms and in a generally seated position. This is less burdensome on the parent who may ordinarily rock the baby with his or her arms while standing or sitting. Without an aid, a parent would typically have to gently bounce the baby with his or her own strength. This can be tiring especially when a parent is already sleep-deprived or when a baby is colicky in the middle of the night or early in the morning. 
     As will be described further below, the bouncing baby chair generally provides a resilient biasing device which allows a bouncing motion to be easily generated by a parent. In one or more embodiments, the baby chair allows a parent to gently bounce with a baby in his or her arms while in a generally seated position. The baby chair may support the parent&#39;s and the baby&#39;s weight, and in some embodiments, a back support may be provided to support the parent&#39;s back. It is noted that though described herein with regard to a baby&#39;s parents as users of the chair, any caretaker or other person may utilize the baby chair. 
     The bouncing baby chair will now be described with regard to the figures.  FIG. 1A  is a side view illustrating an embodiment of the bouncing baby chair. As shown, the baby chair comprises a frame  104  at its lower end and a seat assembly  108  at its upper end. In general, the seat assembly  108  rotates about a pivot  116  of the frame  104 . A bouncing motion may then be provided by a resilient biasing device  112  which provides a force that dampens or resists downward movement of the seat assembly  108 . The force provided by the resilient biasing device  112  also returns the seat assembly  108  upward. In this manner, the baby chair&#39;s seat assembly  108  provides a bouncing motion for soothing an agitated baby. 
     In general, the frame  104  of the bouncing baby chair supports the other components of the baby chair as well as any users of the baby chair. The frame  104  will typically be formed from one or more rigid materials and may include one or more braces  140  to provide a structure capable of supporting the components of the baby chair as well as any users of the chair. 
     In the embodiment shown, the frame  104  has a base  120  which stabilizes the bouncing baby chair relative to the floor. The base  120 , or a portion thereof, may contact the floor to perform this function. The base  120  may comprise one or more elongated members, such as shown, or other structures. For example, the base  120  may comprise one or more planar or other shaped portions in some embodiments. 
     A riser  124  of the frame  104  may extend upward from the base  120  to support the seat assembly  108  of the bouncing baby chair. This allows the seat assembly  108  to be supported at an elevated position which allows a user to be in a seated position when using the baby chair. The riser  124  may be reinforced by one or more braces  140  such as shown in  FIG. 1A  or may be configured to be sufficiently strong without any bracing. 
     As shown, the riser  124  comprises one or more elongated members or structures. It is noted that, like the frame  104 , other configurations may be used. In addition, it is contemplated that the frame  104  and riser  124  may be integrally formed. For example, in one embodiment, the frame  104  and riser  124  may be combined in a generally triangular structure where the riser is formed by the elevated portion of the triangular structure. The slope of the triangular structure may include one or more angles, curves, or both to accommodate a resilient biasing device  112 . 
     A pivot  116  may be provided in one or more embodiments to allow the seat assembly  108  to move in a bouncing motion. In general, a pivot  116  allows the seat assembly  108  to rotate about a substantially horizontal axis. This allows the seat assembly to provide a substantially vertical bouncing motion to a parent and baby, as shown by the arrows in  FIG. 1A . The pivot  116  may attach to an end or other portion of the seat assembly  108 . 
     The pivot  116  may be located at an upper end of the riser  124 . For example, as shown, a pivot  116  may be provided at the top of the riser  114 . It is contemplated that the pivot  116  may also be located on other locations of the riser  124 . This is beneficial because it allows the angle of the seat assembly  108  to be adjusted as desired. For example, a pivot  116  at generally the same height as the top of a resilient biasing device (as will be discussed below) may cause the seat assembly  108  to be positioned generally parallel to the ground. A pivot  116  lower or higher than the top of a resilient biasing device will typically cause the seat assembly  108  to be in an angled or tilted position. Alternatively or in addition, it is contemplated that a series of pivots  116  may be located along the riser  124  to allow the seat assembly  108  to be repositioned. This allows the baby chair&#39;s bouncing motion to be adjusted for different users and babies. 
     The pivot  116  itself may comprise any structure or device, now known or later developed, which rotatably secures a seat assembly. For example, a hinge may be used as a pivot  116  in one or more embodiments. In other embodiments, the pivot  116  may comprise an axle fitted through one or more openings or axle mounts in the seat support  144  and the arm  124 . It is noted that one or more pivots  116  may be provided in some embodiments. For example, as shown, one pivot  116  supports one side of the seat assembly while another pivot supports the other side of the seat assembly  108 . 
     The seat assembly  108  itself may comprise a seat  128  which allows a parent to sit on the seat assembly. The seat  128  typically forms the bottom of a seat assembly  108 . In addition, a portion of the seat  128  may be used to secure or attach the seat assembly  108  to the pivot  116 . This allows the seat assembly  108  to rotate about the pivot  116 . 
     The seat assembly  108  may also comprise a backrest  132  in one or more embodiments. As can be seen, the backrest  132  may extend upward from the seat  128  to support a user&#39;s back. This reduces strain on the user and provides additional comfort when using the bouncing baby chair. The backrest  132  may extend at various angles, and may have an adjustable angle in one or more embodiments. In addition, it is contemplated that a backrest  132  may be removable in some embodiments. It is noted that the angle of the backrest  132  may determine which direction a parent faces when seated in the bouncing baby chair. 
     In one or more embodiments, the seat assembly  108  may include one or more pads  136  to increase user comfort. For example, the bouncing baby chair may provide a padded seat bottom and/or backrest. To illustrate, in  FIG. 1A , the seat assembly  108  has a pad  136  on the seat  128  and a pad for the backrest  132 . It is noted that a seat assembly  108  may include other elements for better ergonomics or comfort. For example, as described below, a seat assembly  108  may include one or more armrests. 
     As stated above, one or more resilient biasing devices  112  provide a biasing force which allows and assists in moving the seat assembly  108  in a bouncing motion. Typically, the resilient biasing device  112  will be positioned beneath a portion of the seat assembly  108 . This allows the resilient biasing device  112  to support and apply its biasing force to the seat assembly  108 . For example, a resilient biasing device  112  may be beneath a portion or end of the seat assembly not supported by the pivot  116 , as shown. In one or more embodiments, the seat assembly  108  may be supported at a first end by the pivot  116 , and at a second end by the resilient biasing device  112 . It will be understood that the resilient biasing device may be positioned at various points beneath the seat assembly  108  to support the second end. 
     In general, the resilient biasing device  112  dampens or resists downward motion of the seat assembly  108  and provides an upward force which causes the seat assembly to return in an upward direction. The resilient biasing device  112  may also limit the range of motion of the seat assembly  108  in some embodiments. For example, the resilient biasing device  112  may prevent the seat assembly  108  from moving downward past a certain point. 
     In one embodiment, the resilient biasing device  112  comprises a resilient sphere such as shown in  FIG. 1A . Moving the seat assembly  108  downward compresses the sphere while moving the seat assembly upward allows the sphere to return to an uncompressed shape. The sphere&#39;s resistance to the downward motion dampens or resists the downward motion. The sphere&#39;s resiliency returns the sphere to a substantially uncompressed shape while applying an upward force to the seat assembly  108 . In this manner, a gentle bouncing motion can be provided when the bouncing baby chair is in use. 
     The resilient sphere is beneficial in that it provides this bouncing motion safely. In contrast to a spring for example, there are no areas where clothing, small fingers, hands, or other body parts can get caught or pinched. In addition, the resilient sphere provides a resistance that is distinct from that of a spring in that a combination of air (or other gas) pressure and the elasticity of the sphere material determines the resistance provided, rather than a metal coil as found in a spring. The resistance of the resilient sphere may also be adjusted by inflating or deflating the sphere. 
     A resilient sphere may comprise an outer resilient shell which gives the sphere its substantially spherical shape. The resilient shell may be formed from various materials including but not limited to natural or synthetic rubber, plastics, or a combination thereof. In one or more embodiments, the resilient shell may be airtight to allow the resilient biasing device  112  to be filled with air or other gases. A port may be included to allow the shell to be filled with air or deflated. In these embodiments, the air allows the biasing device  112  to compress and return to an uncompressed shape such as described above. In embodiments with a port for inflating or deflating the biasing device, the pressure within the biasing device  112  may be adjusted to increase or decrease the compressibility of the biasing device. This allows the bouncing motion provided by the resilient biasing device to be adjusted. For example, inflating the resilient biasing device  112  may increase downward resistance while deflating the resilient biasing device may decrease downward resistance. Also, inflating the resilient biasing device  112  may increase the upward force provided by the resilient biasing device, while deflating the resilient biasing device decreases the upward force. 
     It is contemplated that the resilient shell may be of various thickness to make the biasing device  112  more or less easily compressible. For instance, a thicker shell may make the biasing device  112  more difficult to deform and increase the upward force provided by the biasing device. It is noted that this may be accomplished by reinforcing the resilient shell with flexible reinforcement such as but not limited to metal wires or bars. Of course, other materials may be used to form such flexible reinforcement. A thicker or more durable shell may also be more reliable and less easily damaged or punctured. 
     A resilient biasing device  112  may be held or secured beneath the seat assembly  108  in one or more embodiments. For example, in one embodiment, a resilient biasing device  112  may be secured between a portion of the frame  104  and the seat assembly  108 . Securing the resilient biasing device  112  may be accomplished in various ways. For example, a resilient biasing device  112  may be secured to the frame  104 , the seat assembly  108 , or both by one or more fasteners, adhesives, welds, the like, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the resilient biasing device  112 , frame  104 , and seat assembly  108  or portions thereof may be shaped to secure the resilient biasing device. For example, the seat assembly  108  and frame  104  may have structures having a shape which corresponds to a portion of the resilient biasing device  112 . In this manner, the resilient biasing device  112  may be secured at one end by the frame  104  and at another end by the seat assembly  108 . To illustrate, in  FIG. 1A , the frame  104  and seat assembly  108  have open structures or openings  144  allow a portion of the resilient biasing device  112  to be inserted therein. 
       FIGS. 1B-1D  illustrate various openings, fasteners, mounts, or other structures which may be found on a frame, seat assembly, or both to secure a resilient biasing device. In the embodiment of  FIG. 1B , a round or circular opening  144  which corresponds to the shape of the resilient biasing device  112  of  FIG. 1A  is provided. In the embodiment of  FIG. 1C , an opening  144  is formed by elongated members (of the frame or seat assembly). In this manner, as shown, the resilient biasing device  112  is held between the frame  104  and seat assembly  108 . In use, the resilient biasing device  112  is retained between the frame  104  and seat assembly  108  as it deforms and returns to a substantially undeformed shape. It is noted that a the same or a combination of various openings  144  may be utilized in the frame  104 , seat assembly  108 , or both. 
     Alternatively, or in addition, a resilient biasing device  112  may be secured by various fasteners on the frame  104 , the seat assembly  108 , or both such as shown in  FIG. 1D . In one or more embodiments for example, the resilient biasing device  112  may be secured by hook and loop fasteners  152 , holes  156  for threaded or straight fasteners which utilize friction to secure objects together, hook or loop type fasteners  148 , or a combination thereof. Though shown in combination in  FIG. 1D , it is noted that various fasteners may be used individually or in combination in various embodiments of the bouncing baby chair. 
     It is contemplated that the resilient biasing device  112  may also be shaped to be secured within a bouncing baby chair. For example, the resilient biasing device  112  may have one or more substantially planar or other shaped sections. In one embodiment, a spherical resilient biasing device  112  may have a flat or substantially flat bottom and/or top for example. The flat portion (or any other portion) of a resilient biasing device  112  may also be secured by one or more fasteners. For example, a resilient biasing device  112  may include one or more mounts which allow the biasing device to be fastened to a frame  104 , seat assembly  108 , or both. The mounts may be various structures such as but not limited to hooks, loops, clips, threads, ties, hook and loop fasteners, screws, and the like. In one or more embodiments, the mounts of a resilient biasing device  112  may be chosen such that they are compatible with one or more fasteners on the frame  104 , seat assembly  108 , or both, such as described above. 
     Operation of an exemplary bouncing baby chair will now be described with regard to  FIGS. 2A-2C . As shown, a parent holding a baby are seated in the bouncing baby chair. A backrest is shown supporting the parent&#39;s back. However, as noted above, a backrest need not be provided in all embodiments. 
     In  FIG. 2A , the parent and baby are seated in the bouncing baby chair. The weight of the parent and baby may compress the resilient biasing device  112  downward. Also, some bouncing may be experienced simply by sitting on the baby chair based on the resiliency of the biasing device  112 . The parent may begin a bouncing motion by moving his or her body up and down. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2B , the seat assembly  108  may be pushed or moved downward. This deforms the resilient biasing device  112  downward and causes the seat assembly  108  to rotate downward about the pivot  116 . As can be seen, the downward motion is in a substantially vertical orientation for the baby. This is in contrast to a rocking which has a horizontal movement. 
     It is noted that the pivot  116  of the baby chair is advantageous in that it allows a downward motion to be generated in a variety of ways. For example, the parent may cause a downward motion of the seat assembly by shifting his or her weight forward or backward without having to lift his or her body weight. This reduces strain on the parent when taking care of the baby. The pivot  116  rotatably secures the seat assembly  108  allowing a shift in body weight to translate into downward motion. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2C , the seat assembly  108  may then return upward. The upward motion may be assisted by the resilient biasing device  112 . This is because the resiliency of the resilient biasing device  112  will typically tend to return the biasing device to an uncompressed or substantially uncompressed state. In doing so, the resilient biasing device  112  creates an upward force on the seat assembly  108  which assists the upward motion of the seat assembly. As can be seen, the upward motion of the seat assembly  108  causes its arm  128  to rotate about the pivot  116  similar to the downward motion. In addition, the upward motion is also substantially vertical in contrast to a rocking motion. In one or more embodiments, a parent may apply an upward or lifting force such as through his or her legs to achieve the upward return of the seat assembly  108 . 
     By repeating the upward and downward motions, a gentle bouncing may be achieved to soothe a colicky baby. The amount of upward or downward motion may be controlled by the parent or other user by applying more or less force upon the seat assembly  108 . This is beneficial in that some babies may like more bouncing rather than less bouncing, or vice versa. 
     The substantially vertical movement of the baby provided by the bouncing baby chair is highly advantageous. This vertical movement may soothe babies which would otherwise remain agitated by other remedies. For example, a vertical movement may be more enjoyable or soothing to a baby than a traditional rocking motion or other motion. Further, the vertical movement does not cause the baby to have acid reflux or other digestive problems which would only serve to further agitate the baby. [PROVIDE ADDITIONAL ADVANTAGES IF DESIRED] 
     Also, as described above, the bouncing baby chair provides elements which allow a parent to easily generate this vertical bouncing motion. This reduces fatigue on parents. In fact, the bouncing baby chair may be soothing or relaxing for both parents and babies. The parent&#39;s and baby&#39;s weight may be supported by the baby chair allowing the parent to exert less energy in soothing the baby. In addition, a backrest, if provided, greatly reduces strain on the parent&#39;s back and may be used to assist the parent&#39;s arms in holding the baby. 
     As will be described in the following, the bouncing baby chair may be differently configured in one or more embodiments. It will be understood that elements of a baby chair, though they may be described with respect to particular embodiments, may be used in various embodiments of the baby chair.  FIG. 3  illustrates an embodiment of the baby chair that includes a stop  304 . In general, the stop  304  prevents the seat assembly  108  from rotating past a certain point, as will be described further below. This embodiment also allows the parent to face the pivot  116  when seated. This is beneficial in that the parent&#39;s legs are supported when seated on the bouncing on the baby chair. 
     Like the above embodiments, the embodiment of  FIG. 3  comprises a frame  104  and a seat assembly  108  which rotates about a pivot  116 . A resilient biasing device  112  may be positioned beneath the seat assembly  108  to support the seat assembly and to assist in generating a bouncing motion. The frame  104  comprises a base  120  which may be placed in contact with the floor. A riser  124  extends upward from the base  120  and supports a pivot  116  at its top. The pivot  116  may be located at various locations on the riser  124  in one or more embodiments, as described above. 
     The seat  128  of the seat assembly  108  may be rotatably attached by the pivot  116  such as shown in  FIG. 3 . In this embodiment, the seat  128  is attached at its front end. As can be seen, this allows the parents legs to remain supported by the frame  104  and riser  124  as the bouncing baby chair is used. A backrest  132 , if provided, may extend upward from the seat  128  to support a parent&#39;s back. 
     It is noted that in this and other embodiments, the parents may face away from or towards the pivot  116 . For example, the backrest  132  may extend substantially perpendicular to the seat  128  at a central or other portion of the seat. This would allow a parent to sit facing toward or away from the pivot  116  without adjusting the backrest  132 . Also, it is contemplated that the backrest  132  may be flipped, angled, or otherwise adjustable such that a parent may be comfortably seated regardless of which direction he or she desires to face when seated. For instance, the backrest  132  may be angled away from the pivot  116  such that the seated parent may recline while seated facing the pivot. The angle of the backrest  132  may dictate which direction a parent faces in one or more embodiments. Of course, a parent is free to choose which direction to face where the baby chair has no backrest  132 . 
     The resilient biasing device  112  may be secured or held by openings  144  in the frame  104 , the seat assembly  108 , or both. For example, the embodiment of  FIG. 3  illustrates a resilient biasing device  112  being held in place or secured by openings  144  in the frame  104  and the seat assembly  108 . As discussed above however, the biasing device  112  may also or alternatively be secured by fasteners, mounts, and other devices/structures. 
     The stop  304  of the embodiment in  FIG. 3  will now be described. As stated, the stop  304  generally prevents the seat assembly  108  from moving downward past a certain point. The stop  304  may extend upward from the base  120  of the frame  104  in one or more embodiments. In general, the stop  304  will typically be configured to physically block the movement of the seat assembly  108  thus preventing the seat assembly from moving or rotating past a certain point. As shown in  FIG. 3 , the stop  304  extends upward such that will contact a downward moving seat assembly  108 . For example, a stop  304  may contact a portion of the seat  128  or other portion of a seat assembly  108  as the seat assembly moves downward. This contact prevents the seat assembly  108  from moving further. 
     The stop  304  may extend at various angles as long as it can contact a portion of the seat assembly  108 . For instance, in one or more embodiments, the stop  304  may extend such that its top end will contact the seat assembly  108  to prevent further movement of the seat assembly. The stop  304  may be a rigid structure in one or more embodiments. Also, the stop  304  may also include one or more bumpers, shock absorbers, or the like. For example, in one embodiment, a shock absorber, such as a rubber or other bumper, may be positioned at the top end of the stop  304 . A shock absorber is advantageous in that it prevents contact between the seat assembly  108  and the stop  304  from being abrupt or jarring which would typically disturb a baby. It is contemplated that a shock absorber may comprise one or more pistons, springs, the like, or a combination thereof in one or more embodiments. 
     The stop  304  is also advantageous in embodiments where the parent&#39;s legs are supported (e.g. where a parent faces the pivot when seated). This is because, in these embodiments, it may not be as easy for the parent to support the weight of the parent and the baby with the parent&#39;s legs. Thus, without the stop  304  the seat assembly  108  may rotate further downward than desired. It is contemplated that the stop  304  may be adjustable to allow the seat assembly  108  to be stopped at various locations. For example, the stop  304  may be lengthened or shortened. In addition, the angle of the stop  304  may be adjusted to stop the seat assembly  108  at different locations. 
     Operation of an exemplary bouncing baby chair according to this embodiment will now be described with regard to  FIGS. 4A-4C . In  FIG. 4A , a parent holding a baby is seated in the baby chair. As can be seen the baby chair supports the weight of the parent and baby through the seat assembly  108 . The resilient biasing device  112  may compress a slight amount due to this weight. The backrest of the seat assembly  108 , if provided, may support the parent&#39;s back. 
     In  FIG. 4B , the seat assembly  108  has been moved downward. In the embodiment shown, the seat assembly  108  has moved downward by rotating about the pivot  116 . This compresses the resilient biasing device  112  downward which resists or dampens the downward motion of the seat assembly  108 . The seat assembly  108  may be moved downward until it contacts a stop  304  of the frame  104 . When the seat assembly  108  contacts the stop  304  further downward motion of the seat assembly is prevented. This can be seen in  FIG. 4B . 
     A shock absorber, if provided, may absorb some of the force from the seat assembly  108  when it comes into contact with the stop  304 . For example, a shock absorber may be pressed inward by the seat assembly  108  to absorb this force. It is noted that the seat assembly  108  need not be moved all the way downward until contact with the stop  304  is made. For example, a bouncing motion may be achieved by moving the seat assembly  108  downward an amount which does not cause the seat assembly to contact the stop  304 . 
     In  FIG. 4C , the seat assembly  108  returns upward assisted, at least in part, by the upward force provided by the resilient biasing device  112  returning to a substantially uncompressed state. Like the downward motion, the seat assembly  108  may move upward by rotating upward about the pivot  116 . 
     As can be seen, the upward and downward motion may be substantially vertical in this embodiment of the bouncing baby chair as well. This is generally because the pivot  116  may be configured or oriented such that the seat assembly  108  rotates about a substantially horizontal axis. As stated, this motion may be repeated as desired and generates a bouncing motion which soothes an agitated baby. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates an additional embodiment of the bouncing baby chair utilizing resilient cords  504  to secure the seat assembly  108  to the frame  104 . In general, the resilient cords  504  allow the seat assembly  108  to be moved up and down in a bouncing motion while allowing the seat assembly to be moved in other directions as well. 
     Similar to the above embodiments, the frame  104  provides support to the components of the bouncing baby chair and may be placed in contact with the floor. The seat assembly  108  may comprise a seat  516  to which other parts of the seat assembly  108 , such as a backrest  132  and one or more armrests  508 , may be attached. The seat  516  may be similar to the seats described above, however, may include one or more structures to allow attachment of the resilient cords  504 . In other words, the seat  516  may also be configured to allow the seat assembly  108  to be attached to the frame  104  of the baby chair, such as through one or more resilient cords  504  as will be described further below. 
     A resilient biasing device  112  may be located between the seat assembly  108  and the frame  104 . The resilient biasing device  112  may be held in place or secured by one or more openings  144  in the seat assembly  108 , the frame  104  or both. In the embodiment shown, the resilient biasing device  112  is secured to the seat assembly  108  by a circular opening  144  configured to accept a portion of the biasing device, while the biasing device is secured to the frame by a rectangular opening  144  which may accept another portion of the biasing device. Of course, the resilient biasing device  112  may be secured in other ways, such as the mounts and fasteners described above. It is noted that in this and other embodiments, the resilient biasing device  112  may only be secured to the seat assembly  108  or the frame  104  but not both. To illustrate, in the embodiment of  FIG. 5 , the resilient biasing device  112  may be sufficiently secured by the seat assembly  108  so as to not require additional fastening or securing. 
     As stated, one or more resilient cords  504  may be used to attach the seat assembly  108  to the frame  104 . The resilient cords  504  may be formed from one or more flexible or stretchable materials. For example, a resilient cord  504  may be formed from a spring, elastic band, or the like. In one embodiment, the resilient cord  504  may be bungee cord. It is contemplated that resilient cords  504  of various size or materials may be used to attain the desired elasticity of the resilient cords. 
     For example, highly elastic or stretchable resilient cords  504  may be desired where a larger range of motion for the seat assembly  108  is desired. Resilient cords  504  of lesser elasticity may be used where a decreased range of motion for the seat assembly  108  is desired. The elasticity of the resilient cords  504  will typically increase or decrease the horizontal range of motion, vertical range of motion, or both of the seat assembly  108 . 
     It is contemplated that one or more resilient cords  504  of different elasticity may be used in a single bouncing baby chair. This is beneficial in that it allows the range of motion of the seat assembly  108  to be adjusted. For example resilient cords  504  of less elasticity may be used to make it more difficult to move the seat assembly in a particular direction. In this manner, the range of motion may be limited. 
     A resilient cord  504  may be attached to the seat assembly  108  by one or more mounts  512 . The mounts  512  may comprise various fasteners or structures. For example, a mount  512  may comprise an opening, hook, loop, clip, clamp, screw, pin, or the like. A mount  512  may also be formed by or utilize one or more adhesives, or welds. Similarly, one or more mounts  512  may be used to attach a resilient cord  504  to the frame  104 . Typically, one end of a resilient cord  504  is attached to the seat assembly  108  while the other end of the resilient cord is attached to the frame  104 . 
     A bouncing baby chair may include one or more resilient cords  504 . As shown in  FIG. 5  for example, the bouncing baby chair has four resilient cords  504 . The resilient cords  504  are generally positioned at the edges of the seat assembly  108  and frame  104 . This stabilizes the edges of the seat assembly  108  relative to the frame  104 . Of course, the one or more resilient cords  504  may be positioned in other locations. In addition, additional resilient cords  504  may be used to control the range of motion of the seat assembly. For instance, a plurality of resilient cords  504  may be positioned at an edge or portion of the seat assembly  108  to control its range of motion. The combined resilient cords  504  generally have reduced elasticity as compared to a single resilient cord. 
     Operation of the bouncing baby chair will now be described with regard to  FIGS. 6A-6C .  FIG. 6A  illustrates the bouncing baby chair having resilient cords  504  in use. In  FIG. 6A , a parent holding a baby is seated in and supported by the seat assembly  108  and resilient biasing device  112  of the bouncing baby chair. As can be seen, the resilient cords  504  help stabilize the seat assembly  108  by generally keeping the seat assembly substantially perpendicular to the ground. Of course, the seat assembly  108  may be stabilized in other orientations as well. 
     In  FIG. 6B , the seat assembly  108  is moved downward by the parent, compressing the resilient biasing device  112  downward. It is noted that the resilient cords  504  may be sufficiently elastic so as to not bow when the seat assembly  108  is moved downward. This allows the resilient cords  504  to continue to provide stability to the seat assembly  108  as it is moved downward. As shown in  FIG. 6C , the seat assembly  108  may then be moved upward assisted by the force provided by the resilient biasing device  112  returning to a substantially uncompressed state. Like the above, the upward and downward motions of the seat assembly  108  may be repeated a bouncing motion to soothe a colicky baby. 
       FIGS. 7A-7D  illustrate yet another embodiment of the bouncing baby chair. In this embodiment, the chair also comprises a frame  104  and a seat assembly  108 . In general, the seat assembly  108  is supported within the frame  104  by one or more resilient biasing devices, such as springs which will be described further below. This allows the seat assembly  108  to generate the bouncing motion which soothes agitated babies. Typically, both the frame  104  and the seat assembly  108  will be rigid. 
     The seat assembly  108  may comprise a seat frame  704  configured to rigidly support a seating surface  708 . As can be seen in  FIGS. 7B and 7D , the seat frame  704  has members or elements which support a seat  716  as well as a backrest  712  portion of the seat assembly  108 . The seat frame  704  may be formed from one or more rigid materials, such as but not limited to metal, wood, composites, and plastics. In this manner, the seat  716  and backrest  712  may be rigidly held in position when the bouncing baby chair is in use. 
     In one embodiment, the seat frame  704  comprises two “C” shaped frames. A lower “C” shaped frame  724  may be provided to support the seat  716  while an upper frame  720  may be provided to support the backrest  712 . The upper frame  720  may be bent or otherwise shaped to form one or more armrests  508 . For example, as can be seen from  FIG. 7B , the upper frame  720  is bent or curved as it extends from the front of the seat assembly  108  to the rear of the seat assembly. In this manner, two armrests  508  are provided by the upper frame  720 . In addition, this raises a portion of the upper frame  720  above the lower frame  724  at the rear of the seat assembly  108 . This allows the raised portion of the upper frame  720  to better support the backrest  712  of the seat assembly  108 . For instance, as shown in  FIG. 7B , the raised portion of the upper frame  720  is near the halfway point of the backrest  712  allowing the upper frame to support the backrest. 
     At the same time, the lower frame  724  supports the seat  716 . As can be seen, the seat frame  704  rigidly holds the seat  716  in position relative to the backrest  712  and vice versa. This provides a rigid seat assembly  108  which is capable of supporting a parent and baby. Also, the rigid seat assembly  108  prevents bouncing or other motions from being generated by the seat assembly itself. In this manner, the bouncing motion is generated by the resilient biasing devices or springs between the seat assembly  108  and frame  104 . This ensures that the desired vertical bouncing motion is generated by the bouncing baby chair. The rigidity of the seat assembly  108  also provides support for the user&#39;s back when in a seated position to reduce user fatigue while caring for a baby. 
     It is contemplated that one or more reinforcing members, such as bars, may be added between the upper and lower frame  720 , 724  to reinforce the seat frame  704 . For example, one or more reinforcing members may extend upward from the lower frame  724  to the upper frame  720  at the rear of the seat frame  704 . Alternatively or in addition, one or more reinforcing members may extend between various portions of the upper frame  720  and lower frame  724 . For example, a reinforcing member may extend under the seat  716  between the open “C” shape of the lower frame  724 . It is contemplated that these reinforcing members may provide additional locations where portions of the seating surface  708  may be attached to the seat frame  704 . 
     The seating surface  708  may comprise various materials. In one embodiment, the seating surface  708  may be comprised of planar materials, such as illustrated. In general, the materials will be rigid to support the user. It is contemplated that the seating surface  708  may be padded in one or more embodiments to increase user comfort. Portions of the seating surface  708  may also be shaped to conform to a user&#39;s body. For example, the backrest  712  may be curved or otherwise shaped to conform to the shape of a user&#39;s back. In this manner, proper back support can be provided to a user. It is noted that the seat frame  104  may also be contoured for the user&#39;s comfort. For example, as shown, the upper frame may be curved or shaped to provide a curved armrest  508  to support a user&#39;s arm. 
     The seating surface  708  may be attached to the seat frame  704  in various ways. For example, the seating surface  708  may be attached by adhesives, welds, fasteners, or the like. One or more additional attachments may be used as well, such as brackets or other structures. As shown in  FIG. 7A  for example, the seat  716  of the seating surface  708  is attached at least in part by a bracket  728 . Examples of fasteners that may be used include nuts, bolts, screws, and pins. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 7A and 7C , the frame  104  may comprise one or more side supports  732  which may be held apart by one or more cross members  736 . In general, the cross members  736  are sized to allow the seat assembly  108  to fit between the side supports  732 . In this manner, the seat assembly  108  can be supported within the frame  104 . As shown, the frame  104  comprises three cross members  736 , two of which are at a lower portion of the frame and one of which is at an upper portion of the frame. The lower cross members  736  form a portion of the base of the bouncing baby chair which keeps the chair stable on the ground or floor. The upper cross member  736  helps prevent the side supports  732  from tilting or racking, especially when the chair is in use. As will be described further below, the cross members  736  may also serve as a support for one or more resilient biasing devices  740  such as springs between the frame  104  and the seat assembly  108 . 
     The side supports  732  may comprise various shapes and sizes. In general, the side supports  732  extend upward from the base of the bouncing baby chair to support the seat assembly  108  at an elevated position above the floor or ground. This allows a user to sit in the seat assembly  108  with his or her legs in a comfortable bent position. The elevation also provides space for the seat assembly  108  to bounce up and down when in use. 
     As shown, the side supports  732  have a trapezoidal shape, though of course other shapes may be used. For example, the side supports  732  may be rectangular, round, square, or other shapes. The side supports  732  may be an open frame, however, typically the side supports  732  will have one or more closed portions  744 . For example, as shown, the side supports  732  have a closed upper portion  744  near the bottom of the seat assembly. This is beneficial in that it blocks contact with springs or other resilient biasing devices  740  connecting the seat assembly  108  to the frame  104 . This prevents a user&#39;s or other person&#39;s fingers or other body parts from becoming pinched by the resilient biasing devices  740  or other moving portions of the bouncing baby chair when the chair is in use. 
     A lower portion of the side supports  732  may be open to save materials and thus save on costs. In addition the open portion allows a user to see underneath the seat assembly when at the sides of the bouncing baby chair. In addition, the open portion allows a user to easily access the space under the seat assembly  108  for cleaning or other purposes. Of course, the side supports  732  may be completely closed in some embodiments. In these embodiments, the space under the seat assembly  108  may be accessed from the front or back of the chair. It is noted that embodiments having a closed portion  744  may have improved rigidity over embodiments without closed portions. 
     In one or more embodiments, the side supports  732  may comprise a frame of a first material and a closed portion formed from a second material. For example, a side support  732  may comprise a metal frame having a wooden closed portion. Of course, a variety of combinations of materials may be used. The materials chosen may provide additional benefits. For example, a metal closed portion may be magnetic to allow users to attach one or more magnets or magnetic accessories. Also, for example, the closed portion may be formed from a less expensive material, such as plastic to save on costs. In addition, the closed portion may be removable from the frame portion such as for cleaning or replacement. 
     The closed portion  744  need not be rigid in all embodiments. For example, the closed portion  744  may be formed from a fabric or other flexible material. In fact, any material may be used which prevents or helps prevent a user&#39;s or other person&#39;s body parts from becoming pinched or injured by resilient biasing devices or other moving parts of the bouncing baby chair. 
     It is contemplated that one or more casters or wheels may be provided at the base of the bouncing baby chair. This allows the chair to be easily moved from one location to another. The wheels may have locks to hold the chair in position once the chair is at a desired location. Mobility provides an advantage in that a user may move about the house or other space while caring for a baby. For example, the user may wheel or otherwise move the chair to answer a phone call or perform other activities while the user is caring for a baby. In one or more embodiments, wheels or casters may be attached at the bottom of the side supports  732 , lower cross members  736 , or both. 
     Typically, one or more resilient biasing devices  740 , such as springs or the like, will be used at a front and back portion of a seat assembly  108  to secure the seat assembly to the frame. For example, two springs may be used at the back of the seat assembly  108  and another two springs at the front of the seat assembly. The springs or other resilient biasing devices  740  may be attached at one end to the seat frame  704  (or other portion of the seat assembly  108 ) such as illustrated. The other end of the resilient biasing devices  740  may be attached to the frame  104 . As shown in  FIGS. 7A and 7D  for example, springs are attached to a cross member  736  at the back of the frame  104  and to the side supports  732  at the front of the frame. 
     Of course, fewer or more than four resilient biasing devices  740  may be used in various embodiments of the bouncing baby chair. For example, in one embodiment, two resilient biasing devices  740  may be used to support the front of the seat assembly  108  while one resilient biasing device is used at the rear of the seat assembly. Supporting both the front and back of the seat assembly  108  allows a soothing bouncing motion to be generated by a user seated on the seat assembly. It is contemplated that only the back or front, but not both portions, of the seat assembly  108  may be supported by resilient members  740  in some embodiments. This provides a different bouncing motion similar to that described above with regard to the hinged or pivoting embodiments of the bouncing baby chair described above. 
     The resilient biasing devices  740  allow the seat assembly  108  to move or bounce relative to the frame  104 . The resilient biasing devices  740  may be configured to stretch and then provide a force which returns the supports to their original configuration, similar to the operation of a spring or elastic member as described above. As stated, resilient biasing devices  740  may be one or more springs, elastic members, or the like. A single bouncing baby chair may utilize a variety of resilient biasing devices  740  if desired. This is advantageous in that the bouncing motion of the seat assembly  108  can be controlled in this manner. For example, stronger resilient biasing devices  740  at the back of the seat assembly  108  may reduce the amount of motion or bouncing at the rear of the seat assembly. Likewise, stronger resilient biasing devices  740  at the front of the seat assembly  108  may reduce bouncing at the front of the seat assembly. 
     The resilient biasing devices  740  may be attached in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the resilient biasing devices may be attached by welds, adhesives, or fasteners. In other embodiments, supporting structures, such as hooks, clips, clamps, mounts or the like may be used. For example, as shown in  FIG. 7D , resilient biasing devices  740  may be attached by one or more mounts  748 . The mounts  748  provide a structure to which the resilient biasing devices  740  may be attached, and may also be sized or shaped to hold the resilient biasing devices in a particular position relative to the bouncing baby chair. For instance, the mounts  748  of the seat assembly  108  in  FIG. 7D  are elongated to position the resilient biasing devices  740  away from the seat assembly  108 . This prevents unwanted contact between the resilient biasing devices  740  and portions of the baby chair when the chair is in use. It is noted that the resilient biasing devices  740  may be removably attached to allow for replacement in one or more embodiments. This also allows resilient biasing devices  740  to be swapped for other resilient biasing devices  740  of different strengths. 
     It is contemplated that resilient biasing devices  740  may be covered by a covering to prevent pinching. For example, a spring may be covered by a cylindrical, or tubular cover to prevent a user&#39;s or other person&#39;s fingers from being pinched in the spring. This is highly advantageous because the bouncing baby chair is intended for use near and with babies or small children. 
     In operation, a user holding an agitated baby may bounce the seat assembly  108  up and down relative to the frame  104 . Because the seat assembly  108  and resilient biasing devices  740  of the bouncing baby chair support a user&#39;s body, the user does not easily become fatigued even after periods of extended use. 
     In general, the resilient biasing devices  740  provide resistance to the downward motion of the seat assembly  108 . In addition, the resilient biasing devices  740  provide a return force which returns the seat assembly  108  upward. When the seat assembly  108  is moved downward, the resilient biasing devices  740  deform or elongate. The resilient biasing devices  740  then return to their undeformed configuration as the seat assembly  108  moves back upward. In this manner, the forces provided by the resilient biasing devices  740  help the user generate a soothing bouncing motion and reduce user fatigue. 
     While various embodiments of the invention have been described, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible that are within the scope of this invention. In addition, the various features, elements, and embodiments described herein may be claimed or combined in any combination or arrangement.