Patent Publication Number: US-11641952-B2

Title: Modular cradle

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 16/906,316 filed Jun. 19, 2020, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/865,000 filed Jun. 21, 2019; and this application also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/078,382 filed Sep. 15, 2020, the entireties of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates generally to the field of infant and children&#39;s gear, and more particularly to a modular and interchangeable cradle system for adaptation with multiple gear products. 
     BACKGROUND 
     From birth, a newborn baby requires a substantial amount of attention and care. And according to most parents experienced with raising one or more children, the first 1 to 2 years can be extremely demanding and exhaustive. Infant and children&#39;s gear products are known, for example, whether it be a rocker, bassinet, highchair, swing, and other children&#39;s gear to provide entertainment to the child and/or relief to the parent. However, known gear products are proprietary in that a specific child-receiving receptacle or seat is only compatible with a specific product base. Accordingly, it is a known problem that the den, playroom, bedroom(s), or other areas of the child&#39;s home become occupied with gear products serving various purposes and functionalities. This can become frustrating (to the parents and/or other caretakers of the child) and lead to the unused gear products being thrown away or otherwise disposed of. 
     In some situations, especially at a young age (e.g., 0-2 years), the parent and/or caretaker may be environments where the known configurations of gear products are inconvenient or impractical. In such situations, the parent and/or caretaker may risk placing the gear product in an unsafe location to satisfy their needs. Or, for example, the parent and/or caretaker may use the gear product less given that its known configurations are not suitable, or the unusable gear product may be discarded, either of which is wasteful and expensive. 
     Needs exist for improvements in the art of infant and children&#39;s gear products. It is to the provision of a modular cradle meeting these and other needs that the present disclosure is primarily directed. 
     SUMMARY 
     In example embodiments, the present disclosure provides a modular cradle system including a modular cradle assembly and two or more children&#39;s gear products for interchangeable use therewith. 
     In one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a modular system of children&#39;s gear including a first gear product, a second gear product, and a cradle configured for interchangeable use in a first configuration detachably coupled to the first gear product, and in a second configuration detachably coupled to the second gear product. In example embodiments, the cradle includes a frame and a support panel mounted to the frame, wherein the frame is foldable in the first configuration when coupled to the first gear product, and wherein the frame is not foldable in the second configuration when coupled to the second gear product. 
     In example embodiments, the first gear product is a swing and the second gear product is a highchair. In example embodiments, the cradle comprises first and second frame portions pivotally coupled to a pair of spaced-apart hub members, the hub members comprising coupling components for detachable coupling engagement with female receiving sockets of the first and second gear products. 
     In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a cradle for a modular system of children&#39;s gear. The cradle includes a frame having a plurality of frame elements and at least one hinged coupling between a first frame element and a second frame element, a support panel mounted to the frame, coupling means for interchangeably mounting the frame to a first gear product and a second gear product, and means for allowing the hinged coupling of the frame to fold when the cradle is coupled to the first gear product, and for preventing the hinged coupling of the frame from folding when the cradle is coupled to the second gear product. 
     In still another aspect, the disclosure relates to a modular cradle system including a modular cradle assembly and a reversible product base. The modular cradle assembly includes a hinge frame and a support panel mounted to the hinge frame. The reversible product base is reconfigurable between at least two modes of functionality. In example embodiments, the modular cradle assembly detachably couples with the reversible product base in a first configuration to provide a first function, and wherein the modular cradle assembly detachably coupled with the reversible product base in a second configuration to provide a second function. 
     In example embodiments, the reversible product base includes a pair of spaced-apart frame members, a first side of the spaced-apart frame members being generally curved for rocking on a floor surface, and a second side of the spaced-apart frame members being generally planar for remaining stable on the floor surface. 
     These and other aspects, features and advantages of the inventions of the present disclosure will be understood with reference to the drawing figures and detailed description herein, and will be realized by means of the various elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following brief description of the drawings and detailed description of example embodiments are explanatory of example embodiments of the disclosed inventions, and are not restrictive of the scope of invention, as claimed. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1    is a perspective view of a modular furniture system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  2    is a partially disassembled view of the modular furniture system of  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  3    is a perspective view of a modular toy bar system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  4    is a perspective view of a modular swing system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  5    is a perspective view of a modular chair system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  6    is a partially disassembled view of the chair of  FIG.  5   . 
         FIG.  7    is a partially disassembled side view of the chair of  FIG.  5   . 
         FIG.  8    is a perspective view of a modular chair system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  9    is a perspective view of the modular chair system of  FIG.  8   . 
         FIG.  10    is an exploded or assembly view of the modular chair system of  FIG.  8   . 
         FIG.  11    is a perspective view of the modular chair system of  FIG.  8   , with an alternative seat. 
         FIG.  12    is a perspective view of a modular bassinet system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  13    is a perspective view of a modular chair system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  14    is a perspective view of a modular entertainer system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  15 A  is a perspective view of a modular cradle system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  15 B  is an exploded view of the modular cradle system of  FIG.  15 A . 
         FIG.  16    shows a perspective view of a portion of the frame of the modular cradle system of  FIG.  15 A , showing a U-shaped frame portion pivotally mounted to a portion of a hub and extending at a position so as to expose an extension thereof for interfering with a portion of a highchair product base to prevent pivotal movement of the U-shaped frame portion when detachably coupled thereto. 
         FIG.  17 A  shows a highchair product base according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  17 B  shows a swing product base according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS.  18 A- 18 B  shows the frame of the modular cradle system of  FIG.  15 A , showing compatibility of the frame for coupling on product bases of  FIGS.  17 A and  17 B  according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  19 A  shows a perspective view of a seat of the highchair product base and coupling sockets provided thereon according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  19 B  shows a cross-sectional view of one coupling socket according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, showing a drain or chute so as to allow foodstuff to pass therethrough and not accumulate. 
         FIGS.  20 A and  20 B  show a detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of a locking mechanism of a frame of the modular cradle system of  FIG.  15    according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the locking mechanism engaged with the highchair product base of  FIG.  17 A . 
         FIGS.  21 A and  21 B  show a detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of a locking mechanism of a frame of the modular cradle system of  FIG.  15    according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the locking mechanism engaged with the swing product base of  FIG.  17 B . 
         FIG.  22    shows a motor and swing arm assembly of the swing product base according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS.  23 A- 23 C  show the cradle system of  FIG.  15    mounted to the swing product base in various configurations according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS.  24  and  25    show a modular cradle system mounted to a standalone cradle product base. 
         FIG.  26    shows a modular cradle system showing a modular cradle assembly mountable to a reversible product base in one example configuration according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  27    shows the modular cradle system of  FIG.  26    showing a modular cradle assembly mountable to a reversible product base in another example configuration according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  28    shows the modular cradle system of  FIG.  26    showing a modular cradle assembly mountable to a reversible product base in yet another example configuration according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS.  29  and  30    show a modular cradle assembly detachably coupled with a rocker product base which is configured to receive a modular toy bar according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS.  31  and  32    show a highchair outfitted with a booster seat which is configured to receive a modular toy bar according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS 
     The present disclosure may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of example embodiments taken in connection with the accompanying drawing figures, which form a part of this disclosure. It is to be understood that the inventions of the present disclosure are not limited to the specific devices, methods, conditions or parameters described and/or shown herein, and that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments by way of example only and is not intended to be limiting of the claimed scope of invention. Any and all patents and other publications identified in this specification are incorporated by reference as though fully set forth herein. 
     Also, as used in the specification including the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural, and reference to a particular numerical value includes at least that particular value, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” or “approximately” one particular value and/or to “about” or “approximately” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. 
     With reference now to the drawing figures, wherein like reference numbers represent corresponding parts throughout the several views,  FIGS.  1 - 12    show examples of modular furniture systems according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. The modular furniture systems generally comprise a plurality of support surfaces and/or a plurality of support structures. Each support structure is configured to support the support surface above the ground, floor or other support structure. In the depicted embodiments, the support surfaces are configured to hold and support a child or infant. In other embodiments, other support surfaces can be used such as tabletops. Generally, the support structures are releasably coupled to the support surface such that they can be assembled and disassembled by the user. The modular furniture system is configured such that each support surface is compatible with a variety of support structures. Similarly, each support structure can be compatible with a variety of support surfaces. Therefore, a single set of components can be configured in a variety of configurations which extends the lifespan of the products and reduces cost and waste. 
     In example embodiments, the seating surface and support structures are coupled together using a universal attachment method and universal attachment coupling formats. In other words, all seating surfaces and support structures in the modular furniture system can attach to one another using the same attachment mechanism. In example embodiments, the universal attachment method can comprise one or more releasable attachment mechanisms or couplings including snaps, hooks, magnets, or gravity fed attachment mechanisms. In other embodiments, the universal attachment method can comprise a semi-permanent or releasable attachment mechanism needing tools to fasten and unfasten, such as screws or nails, or allowing fastening and unfastening without by hand operation without tools. The seating surfaces are configured to comprise the universal attachment method while preserving the correct center of gravity. 
       FIGS.  1  and  2    show a modular furniture system  10  according to an example embodiment of the disclosure. In the depicted embodiment, the support surfaces include a chair  20 , comprising a seating surface and a backrest, a tabletop  30 , and an entertainer  40 . In this system, each support surface is compatible with the same support structure. In the depicted embodiment, the support structure is a plurality of straight legs  50 . Each leg is releasably attached to an attachment point on the respective support surface. In this embodiment, a caregiver can purchase the chair  20  and entertainer  40  with the respective support surface and support frames. When the child outgrows the entertainer support surface, the caregiver can exchange the entertainer support surface for the table top support surface  30  while using the same support structure legs  50 . 
       FIGS.  3  and  4    show another modular furniture system  110  according to an example embodiment of the disclosure. In the depicted embodiment, the support structure comprises two leg structures  120  with a cross bar  130  therebetween. In the depicted embodiment, the legs  120  and cross bar  130  are coupled together using hubs. In example embodiments, the crossbar  130  of the support structure can be positioned above a child support surface  140  resting on the ground or floor in a first configuration, as shown in  FIG.  3   . The cross bar  130  can include hanging toys  150  such that it is used as a toy bar. In example embodiments, the legs and/or cross bar can be removably attached to the hubs  160 . In this embodiment, the hubs  160  can be used with legs  120  of different sizes to vary the height of the support structure. The hubs  160  can also be used with cross bars  130  of different lengths to vary the width of the support structure. The same support structure can also include pivotal attachments for swing arms  170  to create a second, swing configuration, including a swing seat  180  as shown in  FIG.  4   . The support legs  120  can also be exchanged for shorter or longer support legs to vary the height of the support structure in the swing configuration. 
       FIGS.  5 - 7    show a modular furniture system  210  according to another example embodiment of the disclosure. In the depicted embodiment, the support surface can comprise a backless seating surface for use as a stool  220 . The seating surface can also act as a base for a chair  230  comprising a back rest and arms. In example embodiments, the chair is releasably attached to the stool base for easy conversion between the stool configuration and chair configurations. The system can also include a chair with a crotch restraint  240  configured to prevent a child from sliding off the seating surface. In example embodiments, the system includes a detachable chair with a crotch restraint formed in the seating surface of the chair. In other embodiments, the crotch restraint is detachably coupled to the seating surface of the chair. The chair with crotch restraint can coupled to longer support legs to form a high-chair configuration  250 . The high-chair  250  can optionally include a seating base  254  for use as a toddler seat, and an infant seat  256  configured for mounting to the seating base or for independent use such as for example on a standard chair. The system can also include a tray  260  that can be detachably or movably coupled to the chair. Each of the seating surface configurations are detachably coupled to one or more support structures. In the depicted embodiment, the support structures include a plurality of support legs  270 ,  270 ′. The support legs  270 ,  270 ′ can vary in height. The support legs can also include accessories, such as a footrest  280  for when the modular furniture system is configured as a highchair  250 . In other embodiments, the support structures can include hooks for hanging the chair from a table or other horizontal surface. The support structures can also be used with other support surfaces, such as the inclined sleeper discussed further below 
       FIGS.  8 - 11    show a modular furniture system  310  according to an example embodiment of the disclosure. In the depicted embodiment, the support surface can comprise an inclined chair or sleeper  320 . The support structure can comprise a plurality of support legs  330  releasably or permanently attached to the inclined seat  320 . In a first configuration, the support legs  330  can rest directly on the floor or ground. In a second configuration, the support legs  330  can be releasably coupled to a rocking base  340 . In the depicted embodiment, the rocking base  340  is formed from a pair of curved rockers. In other embodiments, other bases can be used to impart motion to the inclined seat, such as wheels or castors. This modular furniture design allows the inclined chair  320  to be easily converted between a stationary seat and a rocking seat, as show in  FIGS.  9  and  10   . The convertible support structure can be used with a variety of support surfaces. For example, the support surface can be formed in the configuration of an animal toy format, such as a rocking horse or sheep  360 , which a child can sit upon. 
       FIG.  12    shows a bassinet support surface  410  that is usable with the above described convertible stationary/rocking support structure  340 . As illustrated the bassinet  410  can also be coupled to the swing support structure  110  of  FIG.  4   , can be supported by the legs  50  of  FIG.  1    or can rest directly on the floor or ground G. Therefore, the single bassinet support surface  410  is useable with at least four different support structure configurations. Additionally, the legs ( 50 ,  120 ,  270 ,  270 ′, 330 ), seating or support structures ( 20 ,  40 ,  140 ,  180 ,  254 ,  256 ,  320 ,  360 ,  410 ), and/or other components of the various embodiments disclosed can be the same or universally interchangeable with one another for modular compatibility. 
       FIG.  13    shows a chair support surface that is convertible between a high-chair  510  and a toddler seat  520 . In example embodiments, the legs  530  of the high-chair  510  are formed from multiple components, for example lower leg portions or assemblies  540 A,  540 B and upper leg portions or assemblies  550 A,  550 B. The lower legs  540 A,  540 B can be uncoupled to convert the high-chair  510  to the lower toddler chair  520 . A lower leg crossbar portion  560  may be interchangeably used in both the high-chair  510  mode and the toddler chair  520  mode. Optionally, the chair may be foldable or collapsible for compact storage as shown. 
       FIG.  14    shows a frame  610  that is convertible between an entertainer configuration  620  and a play gym configuration  630 . In one mode of use, an entertainer support surface  640  having a seat sling  650  is attached to the support structure  610  to form an infant entertainer  620 . In another mode of use, a portion of the support structure  610  is positioned over a play mat  660  to form a play gym  630 . Optionally, the structure  610  may be foldable or collapsible for compact storage as shown. 
     In an example method or mode of use, a single support surface is releasably coupled to a support frame in a first configuration. The support surface is decoupled from all or a portion of the support structure and coupled to a different support structure or support structure element, in a second configuration. In example embodiments, three or more support structure configurations are compatible with a single support surface. In another method of use, a single support structure is releasably coupled to a support surface in a first configuration. The support structure is decoupled from all or a portion of the support surface and coupled to a different support surface or support surface element, in a second configuration. In example embodiments, three or more support surfaces are compatible with a single support structure. 
       FIGS.  15 - 32    show a plurality of examples of a modular cradle and children&#39;s accessory system comprising a modular cradle assembly (e.g., support surface and support panel) for interchangeable connection with multiple product bases or support structures (e.g., swing, rocker, highchair, and other children&#39;s support structures) according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. In example embodiments, the modular cradle assembly  700  generally comprises a hinge frame  710  and a support panel or child-receiving receptacle  720  as shown in  FIGS.  15 A and  15 B . In example embodiments, the child receiving receptacle  720  can comprise a harness or crotch restraint  722  to secure a child to the seating surface  724 . In example embodiments, the modular cradle assembly  700  is configured for interchangeable connection or detachable engagement with one or more product bases, such as for example a highchair  800  or a swing  900  shown in  FIGS.  17 A and  17 B , respectively. 
       FIG.  17 A  shows an example embodiment of the highchair  800  which is configured for cooperative engagement with the modular cradle  700 . Generally, the highchair  800  comprises a seat  810  configured for receiving and securely restraining a child in a seated position and a base support portion  830  comprising one or more legs configured to support the seat and the child. In example embodiments, the seat  810  includes a bottom support or base portion  812 , a back support portion  814  and left and right armrest portions  816 ,  818 . The seat  810  can further comprise one or more safety harnesses or restraints  820  safely restrain the child in the seat  810 . In the depicted embodiment, the seat  810  is supported by a pair of trapezoid-shaped legs  832  connected to an underside of the seat base  812 . The support legs  832  can further comprise one or more wheels or rollers  834  which improves and/or eases the mobility of the highchair. 
       FIG.  17 B  shows a swing- or rocker-type product base  900  according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. Generally, the swing product base  900  comprises a motor housing  910  supported by one or more support legs  920 . As shown in  FIG.  22   , the motor housing  910  houses therein a motor  912  with a motor axle  914 . In example embodiments, a first end of a L-shaped swing arm  930  is connected to the motor axle  914  such that movement of the swing arm is driven by the motor  912 . According to example embodiments, the motor  912  is configured to swing or pivot the swing arm  930  about an axial axis of the motor axle  914 . At its second end, opposite the first end, the swing arm  930  comprises an upwardly-extending U-shaped frame member  946  comprising female coupling sockets  948  at each end thereof for detachably coupling with the coupling components  734  of the hubs  712  of the hinge frame  710 . In example embodiments, the U-shaped frame member  946  is generally pivotally mounted to a swing arm  930  of the swing-type product base  900 , for example, such that the pivotal movement or swinging of the swing arm carries the U-shaped frame member (and modular cradle assembly  700  connected thereto). For example, the swing arm  930  may comprise a pivoting base or coupling support  942  at its second end. In example embodiments, the coupling support  942  connects the U-shaped frame member  946  to the swing arm  930  and is at least partially pivotable or reconfigurable such that the orientation of the modular cradle assembly  700  can be reconfigured between a side-to-side swinging orientation (see  FIG.  23 A ) and front-to-back swinging orientations (see  FIGS.  23 B- 23 C ). 
     In example embodiments, the swing-type product base  900  includes two L-shaped support legs  920  extending from the motor housing  910 , each of the L-shaped support legs  920  comprising, for example, a vertical portion  922  and a horizontal portion  924 . In the depicted embodiments, the vertical portions  922  of the support legs extend from the motor housing  910  and apart from one another. The horizontal portions of the support legs  920  are arranged parallel to one another and can comprise one or more weights secured to the support legs  920 , for example, within weight housings  926  as shown in  FIG.  17 B . According to example embodiments, the weights can help prevent the swing product base  900  from becoming unbalanced and falling over during use. In example embodiments, the support legs  920  can also include one or more anti-slip or protective feets  928  to prevent the swing product base  900  from inadvertently sliding across a support surface, such as for example the floor or ground. 
     According to example embodiments, the modular cradle assembly  700  generally comprises a hinge frame  710  and a support panel or child-receiving receptacle  720  the hinge frame  710  comprises a pair of spaced-apart frame hubs  712 , a first U-shaped frame portion  714  and a second U-shaped frame portion  716 . In example embodiments, the ends of the first or lower frame portion  714  and the second or upper frame portion  716  are pivotally coupled with the hubs  712  such that the hinge frame  710  defines a closed-loop frame assembly capable of selective reconfigurability (e.g., folding the first and second U-shaped frame portions to desired positions). In example embodiments, as will be described below, the hinge frame  710  is preferably substantially versatile, compatible and interchangeable. Preferably, the hinge frame  710  is capable of being reconfigured between a fully collapsed or folded configuration (e.g., for storage or transport), a fully expanded configuration, and any configuration therebetween (e.g., one or more portions thereof being at least partially pivoted or reconfigured for alternate seating/receiving positions, as shown in  FIG.  15 C ). In example embodiments, in the fully collapsed configuration, the first and second U-shaped portions  714 ,  716  generally extend in a direction perpendicular relative to the extension of the portions of the hubs  712  pivotally mounted thereto. In the fully expanded configuration, the ends of the first and second U-shaped portions  714 ,  716  extend generally coaxial and are generally aligned relatively parallel relative to the extension of the portions of the hubs  712  pivotally mounted thereto. According to example embodiments, the first and second frame portions  714 ,  716  are pivotally coupled to the frame hubs  712  and are configured to allow incremental adjustment of the frame portions between the fully extended configuration and the fully collapsed configuration. In example embodiments, a central button  732  is provided with each portion of the frame hubs  712  that pivotally receives the ends of the first and second frame portions, for example, which preferably allows for incremental adjustment to the positions of the first and second U-shaped portions between the fully extended configuration and the fully collapsed configuration. 
     According to example embodiments, each hub comprises a stem or coupling component  734  so as to permit the modular cradle assembly  700  to detachably mount with multiple support structures. As shown in  FIGS.  18 A and  18 B , the coupling components of the hinge frame are configured to be detachably connected with one or more sockets formed in or provided on the support structures (e.g., highchair/swing). For example, the highchair  800  comprises a pair of female coupling sockets  812  formed with or in the seat  810  thereof. In example embodiments, a first female coupling socket  812  is formed in the right armrest portion of the highchair seat  810  and a second female coupling socket  812  is formed in the left armrest portion of the seat  810 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  19 A and  19 B , the female coupling sockets  812  are preferably formed in armrest or sidewall portions of the seat  810  of the highchair  800 , for example, wherein passthrough openings  814  formed therewith define an opening or channel extending entirely through the female coupling sockets. In example embodiments, the female coupling sockets  812  comprise first ends or openings  814  configured for receiving coupling components  734  of the hubs  712  of hinge frame  710 . The female coupling sockets further comprise second ends or exits  816  provided generally opposite of the first ends  814  and is in communication with the first ends. In example embodiments, the entirely open channel or passthrough of the female coupling sockets  812  of the highchair preferably provide a chute for food or other objects, components, and toys, to pass though, and facilitate cleaning, for example, which may be unintentionally inserted therein when a child is being supported by the highchair and with the female coupling sockets being unoccupied and accessible. 
     In example embodiments, the coupling components of the hubs are configured to inter-engage female coupling sockets of various product bases, and to selectively permit other functionalities of the hinge frame, for example, such as folding the same. For example,  FIGS.  20 A and  20 B  show a detailed view of the inter-engagement between the coupling component  734  of hub  710  and the female coupling socket  812  of highchair product base  800  according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. According to example embodiments, the hub comprises an internal catch member  736  that is biased, for example by a spring or other biasing mechanism  815 , to cause a finger catch thereof to interfere with or catch onto an overhang  818  formed along a portion of the female coupling socket  812 . Thus, in this configuration, the hinge frame  700  is prevented from disengagement from the female coupling sockets  812  of the highchair product base  800  (see  FIGS.  20 A- 20 B ). In example embodiments, a release button  732  is provided within the hub  712  and is operably or integrally connected to the internal catch member  726  wherein actuation of the release button  732  actuates the finger catch of the internal catch member. As depicted, pressing inwardly on the release button  732  causes removal of the finger catch  736  from the overhang  818 , thereby permitting disengagement of the hinge frame  700  from the highchair product base  800 . In some example embodiments, an actuatable button or other operable mechanisms may be provided on at least one of the hubs of the hinge frame to permit selective folding of the hinge frame. 
     According to example embodiments, the first and second U-shaped portions  714 ,  716  comprise fingers or interference members or extensions  718  extending at each of their respective ends thereof (see  FIG.  16   ), for example, so as to cause interference with a portion of the product base while engaged with the female sockets thereof. Accordingly, when the coupling components  734  of the hub assemblies  712  are coupled with the female coupling sockets  812  of the highchair product base  800 , the first and second U-shaped portions are prevented from pivoting (e.g., due to interference of the extensions with portions of the product base) such that the hinge frame must remain in a fully collapsed or extended configuration. In other words, when the hinge frame  700  is secured to the highchair base  800 , the hinge frame  700  is prevented from being folded, for example, such that the first and second U-shaped portions are prevented from pivoting or folding relative to the hub of the hinge frame. 
       FIGS.  21 A and  21 B  show a detailed view of the inter-engagement between the coupling component  734  of hub  710  and the female coupling socket  812  of the swing-type product base  900  according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. In the depicted embodiment, the hub of the hinge frame is detachably coupled with the female coupling socket of a swing-type product base (also see  FIG.  18 B ). According to example embodiments, a support structure of a swing-type product base  900  comprises an upwardly-extending U-shaped frame member  946  comprising female coupling sockets  948  at each end of the U-shaped frame member for detachably coupling with the coupling components  734  of the hubs  712  of the hinge frame  710 . In example embodiments, the coupling component of at least one of the hubs comprises a catch member  738  that is biased by, for example, a spring  742  and configured for complementary engagement with a coupling receiver  947  of the female coupling socket  948  (e.g., of the swing-type product base  900 ). According to example embodiments, a portion of the female coupling socket  948  comprises a keyed access channel  949  that is in communication with the coupling receiver  947 . Accordingly, when the hubs  712  of the hinge frame are detachably coupled with the female coupling sockets  948  of the swing-type product base, the biased catch members  738  are fitted within the coupling receivers  947  thereof such that the hinge frame is prevented from detachment. 
     According to example embodiments, a tool, key or other detachment member can be provided for actuating the biased catch members  738  to release the same from the coupling receivers  947 , and thus, permit disengagement of the hubs from the female coupling sockets  948 . For example, the detachment member is generally sized to permit the same to pass through an access channel  949  of the female coupling socket and engage the catch member  738  to displace the same and remove itself from interfering with the coupling receiver. And, should the frame be desired to be folded while the modular cradle assembly is detachably coupled with the swing-type product base  900 , the central buttons of the hubs (as described above) can be actuated simultaneously to incrementally adjust the position of either of the first and second U-shaped members  714 ,  716 . Indeed, the female coupling sockets  948  of the swing-type product base  900  are configured so as to not cause interference of the extensions  718  with a portion thereof (as noted for the highchair product base  800 ), and thus, simultaneous actuation of the central buttons permits the adjustability thereof. Furthermore, it should be noted that while simultaneous actuation of the central buttons  732  when the hinge frame is detachably coupled with the highchair product base  800  permits the detachment thereof, simultaneous actuation of the central buttons  732  while the hinge frame is detachably coupled with the swing-type product base  900  rather permits pivoting of either of the first and second U-shaped portions  714 , 716 , and for example, the biased catch members  738  are to be disengaged from the coupling receivers  947  to permit detachment thereof. 
     According to example embodiments, the female coupling sockets  812  of the highchair product base  800  preferably provides for coupling engagement with multiple components. For example, as described above, the highchair seat comprises a pair of female coupling sockets  812  configured for detachable coupling engagement with the hubs  712  of the hinge frame  710 . Furthermore, the female coupling sockets  812  of the highchair seat are preferably also configured for detachable coupling engagement with a booster seat  1000  (see for example  FIG.  32   ). For example, according to some example embodiments, the highchair product base  800  comprises a booster seat component  1000 , which is similarly configured to provide for detachable coupling engagement with the female coupling sockets of the highchair seat. 
       FIGS.  15 A and  15 B  also show the engagement of a toy bar  750  with a portion of the hinge frame  710  of the modular cradle assembly  700 . In example embodiments, the toy bar  750  comprises a male end  752  for fitting within a female receiver  740  that is formed within a portion of the hinge frame  710 . According to example embodiments, neither the male end  752  of the toy bar  750  nor the female receiver  740  of the hinge frame  710  comprise any stops or other engagement features that would selectively lock the two together and require manipulation or actuation prior to disengagement. For example, according to example embodiments, to reduce the likelihood that a user or caregiver would use the toy bar  750  as a carry handle, the male end  752  and female receiver  740  merely comprise an interference fit with each other so that the toy bar  750  remains engaged and upright. However, if a large enough amount of force is applied to the toy bar  750  (e.g., grasping the toy bar to carry the entirety of the modular cradle assembly and optionally a product base connected with the modular cradle assembly), the friction of the interference fit (between the male end  752  and female receiver  740 ) is overcome and the male end  752  of the toy bar  750  becomes disengaged with the female receiver  740 , optionally releasing before enough lifting force is applied to lift the cradle. According to one example embodiment, the toy bar  750  disengages from the female receiver  740  when a lifting force of about 5 lbs or more is applied thereto. According to example embodiments, the modular cradle assembly  700  weighs at least about 5 lbs, and thus, attempting to use the toy bar  750  as a handle (e.g., applying a lifting force thereto) merely causes disengagement thereof and does not lift the modular cradle assembly  700  about the support surface. Preferably, the toy bar  750  is pivotable relative to the hinge frame such that the toy bar is temporarily movable (i.e., pivoted) to have unobstructed access to the child-receiving receptacle. 
     Optionally, the toy bar  750  includes an elongate arcuate stalk having a proximal coupling end for interchangeable attachment to the cradle and/or other accessories, and a correspondingly arcuate and wider flanged distal or free end having one or more attachment features for attachment of toys or other entertainment features to be suspended above and in view of a child positioned in the cradle. According to example embodiments, one or more straps and/or tabs can be provided so as to permit the attachment of one or more toys to the toy bar. According to some example embodiments, the arcuate and wider flanged distal or free end is configured to generally resemble a leaf or other plant-like structure. 
       FIGS.  24 - 25    shows a modular cradle assembly  1110  coupled with a standalone product base  1120  according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. According to example embodiments, a harness  1150  is provided within the child-receiving receptacle  1112  and configured to prevent a child from sliding off or unintentionally removing themselves therefrom. According to example embodiments, the harness  1150  generally comprises two assemblies of components that are releasably engageable. According to example embodiments, the harness comprises a first assembly  1160  and a second assembly  1170 . The first assembly  1160  comprises a female buckle portion  1162  having a release button  1164  and comprising a shoulder strap  1166 , a waist strap  1167  and a bottom strap  1168  connected therewith and to the child-receiving receptacle  1112  (or to other portions of the modular cradle assembly  1110 ). The second assembly  1170  comprises a male buckle portion  1172  comprising a shoulder strap  1176  and a waist strap  1177  connected therewith and to the child-receiving receptacle  1112  (or to other portions of the modular cradle assembly  1110 ). According to example embodiments, the male and female buckle portions  1162 ,  1172  are preferably configured to detachably coupled with each other. To disconnect the male and female buckle portions, the release button  1164  of the female buckle portion  1162  can either be pushed or pulled, which ultimately allows for the male buckle portion  1172  to be withdrawn from the female buckle portion  1162 . 
       FIG.  26    show a modular cradle system  1200  comprising a modular cradle assembly  1210  coupled with a reversible product base  1230  according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. In example embodiments, the modular cradle assembly is generally similarly configured as described above, for example, comprising a hinge frame, a child-receiving receptable detachably coupled to the hinge frame, and at least one hub for complementary engagement with at least one female receiving socket of the reversible product base. According to example embodiments, the reversible product base  1230  preferably comprises a pair of spaced-apart frame members  1232 , for example, wherein when a first side of the spaced-apart frame members  1232  comprise curved or arcuate frame portions  1234  and wherein a second side of the spaced-apart frame member  1232  comprise generally flat and planar frame portions  1236 . As such, the modular cradle assembly  1200  is capable of rocking when the curved frame portions are in contact with the floor. Alternatively, as shown in  FIG.  27   , the modular cradle assembly  1200 ′ is capable of remaining stable when the planar frame portions  1236  are in contact with the floor. Preferably, according to example embodiments, the reversible product base can comprise two pairs of female receiving sockets so that the modular cradle assembly can be detachably coupled with either side of the reversible product base. 
     According to another example embodiment of the present disclosure, a rocking arm or movement device can be provided on or near the first side of the spaced-apart frame members comprising the curved frame portions, for example, so as to impart a rocking motion to the reversible product base. According to example embodiments, a button, switch or actuatable member can be provided to selectively power the rocking arm.  FIGS.  26 - 28    show the modular cradle assembly  1210  detachably coupled to both the first (rocker mode) and second sides (standalone mode) of the spaced-apart frame portions. According to example embodiments, the modular cradle assembly  1210  and/or reversible product base  1230  can be of a desired color or can comprise one or more accented members or components, for example, a color or wood accented component according to some example embodiments. According to some example embodiments, a customer who is ordering a modular cradle assembly (or desired product base) can choose the coloring, accenting, and/or other optional features and accessories as desired. Thus, according to example embodiments, the modular cradle assembly (and any product bases) can be customized per the customer&#39;s liking. 
     As further depicted in  FIGS.  26 - 28   , a carrying handle  1240  can be provided with the reversible product base  1230 . Preferably the carrying handle is pivotable between a front, collapsed position; an upright, erect position (see  FIG.  27   ); and a rear, collapsed position (see  FIG.  26   ). According to some example embodiments, the reversible base product  1200 ″ can comprise wheels  1250  mounted on the second side thereof, for example, such that the reversible product base  1230  can act as a stroller or a rocker.  FIG.  28    shows the modular cradle assembly  1210  coupled with the reversible product base  1230  and configured as a stroller wherein the pivotable carrying handle  1240  is configured for pushing or pulling the reversible product base and modular cradle assembly coupled therewith. In example embodiments, the carrying handle  1240  is expandable or extendable such that the same can be lengthened when it is desired to function as a stroller or, for example, can be compacted such that the same can function as a carrying handle. 
       FIGS.  29 - 30    show a modular cradle system  1300  comprising a modular cradle assembly  1310  detachably coupled with a rocker product base  1330  and  FIGS.  31 - 32    shows a highchair outfitted with a booster seat, both of which are configured to receive a modular toy bar according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
     According to yet other example embodiments of the present disclosure, the modular cradle assembly as described herein can preferably be configured for detachably coupling with various product bases of the children&#39;s products. For example, the modular cradle assembly can be configured for detachable coupling engagement with product bases such as a rocker, bouncer, jumper, bassinet, highchair, swing, play yard and/or various other product bases as desired. According to one example embodiment, the modular cradle assembly can be configured for removable attachment to a changing table, activity center, crib, stroller frame and/or other desired product base. 
     While the disclosed inventions have been described with reference to example embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that a variety of modifications, additions and deletions are within the scope of invention, as defined by the following claims.