Patent Description:
The present invention relates to child support apparatuses.

Child strollers can be used to conveniently transport babies and children for outdoor activities. Typical design needs for a child stroller may include a frame structure that can be conveniently and safely operated for folding and unfolding, have a compact size in a folded state, and can be adaptable to different configurations of use. <CIT> shows a baby seat frame comprising two legs, a connector tube, a seat bar, and a foot bar.

Child strollers available on the market may also have a seat that can be detachably installed and/or converted to different configurations for receiving a child in a sitting position or a sleeping position. During use, the seat needs to provide a comfortable environment for a child. However, the conventional seat construction using a fabric stretched and attached to the frame structure may not be sufficient to satisfy this need.

Therefore, there is a need for an improved design that can provide a comfortable environment for receiving a child during use, and can address at least the foregoing issues.

The present application describes a child support apparatus and a juvenile support assembly that can provide a more comfortable support for a child. According to an embodiment, a child support apparatus includes a standing frame, and a juvenile support assembly supported on the standing frame, the juvenile support assembly having a left side and a right side and a front end and a rear end, wherein the juvenile support assembly includes a resilient wire forming a bearing support for a child that is elastically deformable along an upward-downward direction of the juvenile support assembly, the resilient wire extending between the left side and the right side and having two opposite ends respectively anchored at the left side and the right side of the juvenile support assembly, the resilient wire being bent to form a wave shape that stretches back and forth between the front end and the rear end of the juvenile support assembly.

Advantages of the child support apparatus and juvenile support assembly described herein include the ability of the resilient wire to deform elastically for dissipating a part of undesirable vibrations and/or shock energy that may be transmitted from the standing frame to the juvenile support assembly during use, thereby providing a more comfortable support for a child.

The present application describes a child support apparatus that includes a standing frame, and a juvenile support assembly supported on the standing frame. The juvenile support assembly has a left and a right side, and includes a resilient wire extending between the left and right sides, the resilient wire forming a bearing support for a child that is elastically deformable along an upward-downward direction of the child support apparatus. The resilient wire can act as a cushion to provide comfortable support for a child. Embodiments of the child support apparatus described herein include child stroller apparatuses. However, it will be appreciated that the juvenile support assembly described herein may be implemented in any types of child support apparatuses, which include, without limitation, child stroller apparatuses, child motion apparatuses such as infant swings or rockers, and the like. Moreover, the juvenile support assembly may be adapted to provide support for a child in different positions, such as a sitting position and/or a recline position.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a child support apparatus <NUM> implemented as a child stroller apparatus embodiment. The child support apparatus <NUM> can include a standing frame <NUM>, a handle frame <NUM> connected with the standing frame <NUM>, and a juvenile support assembly <NUM> supported on the standing frame <NUM>.

The standing frame <NUM> can include two leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> connected with each other. The leg frame <NUM> can be exemplary a front leg frame, and the leg frame <NUM> can be exemplary a rear leg frame. Each of the leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can respectively include two side segments disposed symmetrically at a left and a right side of the standing frame <NUM>, e.g., two side segments 108A for the leg frame <NUM> and two side segments 110A for the leg frame <NUM>. The two side segments 108A of the leg frame <NUM> can be respectively coupled pivotally to the two side segments 110A of the leg frame <NUM>, so that the leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can rotate relative to each other during folding and unfolding of the child support apparatus <NUM>. For example, two pivot connections <NUM> (e.g., including pivot shafts) may respectively couple the upper ends of the side segments 108A to the upper ends of the side segments 110A. Moreover, the two leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can respectively have a plurality of wheel assemblies <NUM> for facilitating displacement of the child support apparatus <NUM> on a floor surface.

Referring to <FIG>, the standing frame <NUM> can further include two sliding sleeves <NUM> and two linking bars <NUM> that are disposed symmetrically at the left and right sides of the standing frame <NUM>. The two sliding sleeves <NUM> can be respectively connected slidably with the two side segments 110A of the leg frame <NUM>, and can slide along the side segments 110A toward or away from the pivot connections <NUM>. Each linking bar <NUM> can have two opposite end portions respectively coupled pivotally to one sliding sleeve <NUM> and one side segment 108A of the leg frame <NUM> via two pivot connections <NUM> and <NUM>.

Referring again to <FIG>, the handle frame <NUM> can be pivotally coupled to the standing frame <NUM> via two pivot connections <NUM>. According to an example of construction, the handle frame <NUM> can include two side portions 104A disposed symmetrically at the left and right sides, and a grip portion 104B connected with the two side portions 104A. The two side portions 104A may be respectively coupled pivotally to the two sliding sleeves <NUM> via the two pivot connections <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the handle frame <NUM> may further have a foldable structure for facilitating storage or transport of the child support apparatus <NUM>. For example, each side portion 104A of the handle frame <NUM> can include a segment <NUM> that is pivotally coupled to the grip portion 104B via a pivot connection <NUM>. Moreover, each segment <NUM> can be pivotally coupled to one corresponding sliding sleeve <NUM> via one pivot connection <NUM>. The grip portion 104B can rotate relative to the segments <NUM> to fold or unfold the handle frame <NUM>, whereby the length of the handle frame <NUM> may be advantageously reduced for a more compact storage when the child support apparatus <NUM> is collapsed.

Referring again to <FIG>, the child support apparatus <NUM> can further include two side bar portions <NUM> respectively disposed at the left and right sides of the juvenile support assembly <NUM>. Each side bar portion <NUM> can be coupled pivotally to the standing frame <NUM> via the pivot connection <NUM>, and can be coupled to one side portion 104A of the handle frame <NUM> via a linking bar <NUM>. Because the pivot connection <NUM> also pivotally couples the side segment 108A of the leg frame <NUM> to the side segment 110A of the leg frame <NUM>, each side bar portion <NUM> can be thereby coupled pivotally to the two leg frames <NUM> and <NUM>. Each linking bar <NUM> can have two ends respectively coupled pivotally to the grip portion 104B of the handle frame <NUM> via a pivot connection <NUM> and to the side bar portion <NUM> via a pivot connection <NUM>. Moreover, each side bar portion <NUM> can be further coupled pivotally to one segment <NUM> of the handle frame <NUM> via a pivot connection <NUM>, which is located between the pivot connections <NUM> and <NUM> along the side bar portion <NUM>.

According to an example of construction, the two side bar portions <NUM> may be further fixedly connected with a transversal portion <NUM>, which can be disposed adjacent to a front of the juvenile support assembly <NUM>. The two side bar portions <NUM> and the transversal portion <NUM> can form a U-shaped frame that is movably linked to the standing frame <NUM> and the handle frame <NUM>.

With the aforementioned construction, the handle frame <NUM>, the two leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> and the two side bar portions <NUM> can be movably linked to one another for facilitating folding and unfolding of the child support apparatus <NUM>. For example, a caregiver can grasp and pull upward the transversal portion <NUM> for folding the child support apparatus <NUM>. As the transversal portion <NUM> is pulled upward, the child support apparatus <NUM> can be lifted above a floor surface, and gravity action can assist in folding the child support apparatus <NUM>. More specifically, the grip portion 104B of the handle frame <NUM> can rotate about the pivot connections <NUM> to fold over the segments <NUM>, the two leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can rotate about the pivot connections <NUM> toward each other, and the two side bar portions <NUM> can respectively rotate relative to the grip portion 104B and the segments <NUM> of the handle frame <NUM> and the two leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> so as to orient the transversal portion <NUM> upward. <FIG> and <FIG> are perspective views illustrating exemplary operation of folding the child support apparatus <NUM>.

In conjunction with <FIG>, reference is made hereinafter to <FIG> to further describe a locking mechanism <NUM> provided in the child support apparatus <NUM>. Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, each of the left and right sides of the child support apparatus <NUM> can include a locking mechanism <NUM> operable to lock the child support apparatus <NUM> in an unfolded state for use. The locking mechanism <NUM> can include a latch <NUM> and a spring <NUM>. The latch <NUM> can be slidably assembled inside the segment <NUM> of the handle frame <NUM>, and can slide relative to the segment <NUM> to engage and disengage a coupling plate <NUM> fixedly attached to the grip portion 104B of the handle frame <NUM>. More specifically, the latch <NUM> can engage with a notch <NUM> provided on the coupling plate <NUM> to prevent folding of the grip portion 104B over the segments <NUM> and thereby lock the child support apparatus <NUM> in an unfolded state for use. When the latch <NUM> disengages from the notch <NUM>, the grip portion 104B can rotate and fold over the segments <NUM> for collapsing the child support apparatus <NUM>. The spring <NUM> can be respectively connected with the latch <NUM> and an anchor feature provided inside the segment <NUM>. The spring <NUM> can bias the latch <NUM> for engagement with the notch <NUM> and thereby locking the child support apparatus <NUM> in the unfolded state for use.

The same locking mechanism <NUM> comprised of the latch <NUM> and the spring <NUM> described above can be provided at each of the left and right side of the child support apparatus <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the child support apparatus <NUM> can further include a release actuator <NUM> respectively connected with each latch <NUM> via a cable <NUM>. According to an example of construction, the release actuator <NUM> can be a button, and can be slidably assembled with the transversal portion <NUM>. Each cable <NUM> can have a first end connected with the latch <NUM> associated therewith, and a second end slidably assembled with a guide slot 152A provided in the release actuator <NUM>. When the release actuator <NUM> is depressed, the second end of each cable <NUM> may be urged to slide along the corresponding guide slot 152A, which causes the cable <NUM> to pull the latch <NUM> coupled thereto to slide and disengage from the notch <NUM> for unlocking the child support apparatus <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the child support apparatus <NUM> may further include a safety lock <NUM> that is movably assembled with the transversal portion <NUM> at a location adjacent to the release actuator <NUM>. For example, the safety lock <NUM> may be assembled with the transversal portion <NUM> for sliding movement to the left side and the right side. The safety lock <NUM> is movable between two positions: a first position where the safety lock <NUM> can engage with the release actuator <NUM> to prevent its movement in an unlocking direction, and a second position where the safety lock <NUM> is disengaged from the release actuator <NUM> so that the release actuator <NUM> can be depressed to unlock the child support apparatus <NUM>. The safety lock <NUM> may be further connected with a spring (not shown) operable to bias the safety lock <NUM> to the aforementioned first position.

Referring again to <FIG>, the juvenile support assembly <NUM> can include a resilient wire <NUM> and a fabric <NUM> (shown with phantom lines in <FIG> and <FIG>). The resilient wire <NUM> can be made of a material capable of elastic deformation. Examples of materials for the resilient wire <NUM> can include, without limitation, steel, metallic alloys, plastic, or any other suitable materials capable of elastic deformation. The resilient wire <NUM> can extend between the left and right sides of the juvenile support assembly <NUM> with two opposite ends <NUM> of the resilient wire <NUM> being respectively anchored at the left and right sides of the juvenile support assembly <NUM>. For example, the two ends <NUM> of the resilient wire <NUM> can be respectively attached fixedly to the two side bar portions <NUM>, and the resilient wire <NUM> can extend above the two side bar portions <NUM>. The resilient wire <NUM> can be configured to form a bearing support for a child that is elastically deformable along an upward-downward direction <NUM> of the juvenile support assembly <NUM>. More specifically, the resilient wire <NUM> can include a plurality of bent portions between the two opposite ends <NUM> that respectively form a plurality of hinges allowing elastic deflection of the resilient wire <NUM> along the upward-downward direction <NUM>.

According to an example of construction, the resilient wire <NUM> shown in the embodiment of <FIG> can have two bent portions <NUM> turning generally vertically, and two bent portions <NUM> turning generally horizontally. Each of the two bent portions <NUM> can have a U-shape, and each of the two bent portions <NUM> can have a L-shape. From one end <NUM> to the other end <NUM>, the resilient wire <NUM> can sequentially form one bent portion <NUM>, form one bent portion <NUM>, extend generally linearly along a transversal direction, form the other bent portion <NUM> and eventually form the other bent portion <NUM>. When the child support apparatus <NUM> is in an unfolded state for use, the resilient wire <NUM> can extend higher than the pivot connections <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>.

The fabric <NUM> is schematically shown with phantom lines in <FIG> and <FIG>, and omitted in the other figures to better show features of the frame structure. The fabric <NUM> can be stretched across the resilient wire <NUM>, and at least partially cover the resilient wire <NUM> to at least partially form an outer envelop of the juvenile support assembly <NUM>. When a child is received on the juvenile support assembly <NUM>, the child can sit on the fabric <NUM>, which is supported at least partially by the resilient wire <NUM>. During use, the ability of the resilient wire <NUM> to deform elastically allows to dissipate a part of undesirable vibrations and/or shock energy that may be transmitted from the standing frame <NUM> to the juvenile support assembly <NUM>, thereby providing a more comfortable support for the child.

<FIG> are schematic views illustrating some other examples of suitable shapes for the resilient wire <NUM>. Like in the aforementioned embodiment, the resilient wire <NUM> shown in <FIG> can have one or more bent portions allowing elastic deflection of the resilient wire <NUM> along the upward-downward direction <NUM>.

In the example of <FIG>, the resilient wire <NUM> is bent to form a wave shape <NUM> between the two opposite ends <NUM>. The resilient wire <NUM> shown in <FIG> may be disposed with the two ends <NUM> respectively affixed at a left and a right side of the juvenile support assembly <NUM> and with the wave shape <NUM> stretching transversally and back and forth between a front and a rear end of the juvenile support assembly <NUM>.

In the example of <FIG>, the resilient wire <NUM> is bent to form a spiral shape <NUM> between the two opposite ends <NUM>. The resilient wire <NUM> shown in <FIG> may be disposed with the two ends <NUM> respectively affixed at a left and a right side of the juvenile support assembly <NUM> and with the spiral shape <NUM> located in a central region of the juvenile support assembly <NUM>.

In the example of <FIG>, the resilient wire <NUM> is bent into a shape including multiple sections <NUM> and <NUM> extending along different directions. The resilient wire <NUM> shown in <FIG> may be disposed with the two ends <NUM> respectively affixed at a left and a right side of the juvenile support assembly <NUM>, the sections <NUM> extending generally parallel to one another along a lengthwise axis extending from a front to a rear of the juvenile support assembly <NUM>, and the sections <NUM> extending generally parallel to one another along a transversal axis extending from the left to the right side of the juvenile support assembly <NUM>.

In the example of <FIG>, the resilient wire <NUM> is bent to form an arc shape <NUM> between the two opposite ends <NUM>. The resilient wire <NUM> shown in <FIG> may be disposed with the two ends <NUM> respectively affixed at a left and a right side of the juvenile support assembly <NUM>, the arc shape <NUM> extending across a width of the juvenile support assembly <NUM>.

Depending on the desired cushioning effect, two or more of the resilient wires <NUM> described herein may be provided in the juvenile support assembly <NUM>. Moreover, the resilient wire <NUM> may be bent to include more than one of the shapes described herein. Reference is made hereinafter to <FIG> to describe other examples of child support apparatuses that may include a juvenile support assembly using the resilient wire <NUM> described herein.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating another child support apparatus <NUM> incorporating the resilient wire <NUM> described herein. The child support apparatus <NUM> is a child stroller apparatus, and can include a standing frame <NUM>, a handle frame <NUM> connected with the standing frame <NUM>, and a juvenile support assembly <NUM> comprised of the resilient wire <NUM> that is supported on the standing frame <NUM>.

The standing frame <NUM> can include two leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> connected with each other. The leg frame <NUM> can be exemplary a front leg frame, and the leg frame <NUM> can be exemplary a rear leg frame. Each of the leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can respectively include two side segments disposed symmetrically at a left and a right side of the standing frame <NUM>, e.g., two side segments 208A for the leg frame <NUM> and two side segments 210A for the leg frame <NUM>. The two side segments 208A of the leg frame <NUM> can be respectively coupled pivotally to the two side segments 210A of the leg frame <NUM> via two pivot connections <NUM>, so that the leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can rotate relative to each other during folding and unfolding of the child support apparatus <NUM>. Moreover, the two leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can respectively have a plurality of wheel assemblies <NUM> for facilitating displacement of the child support apparatus <NUM> on a floor surface.

Referring again to <FIG>, the handle frame <NUM> can be pivotally coupled to the standing frame <NUM> via the two pivot connections <NUM>. According to an example of construction, the handle frame <NUM> can include two side portions 204A disposed symmetrically at the left and right sides, and a grip portion 204B connected with the two side portions 204A. The two side portions 204A may be respectively coupled pivotally to the two leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> via the two pivot connections <NUM>. The handle frame <NUM> and the two leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can be thereby connected pivotally with one another about a common pivot axis <NUM> defined by the pivot connections <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the handle frame <NUM> may further have a foldable structure for facilitating storage or transport of the child support apparatus <NUM>. For example, each side portion 204A can include a segment <NUM> that is pivotally coupled to the grip portion 204B via a pivot connection <NUM>. The two segments <NUM> can be respectively coupled pivotally to the standing frame <NUM> via the two pivot connections <NUM>. The grip portion 204B can rotate relative to the segments <NUM> about the pivot connections <NUM> to fold or unfold the handle frame <NUM>, whereby the length of the handle frame <NUM> may be advantageously reduced for a more compact storage when the child support apparatus <NUM> is collapsed.

Referring again to <FIG>, the child support apparatus <NUM> can further include two side bar portions <NUM> respectively disposed at the left and right sides of the juvenile support assembly <NUM>. Each side bar portion <NUM> can be coupled pivotally to the standing frame <NUM> via a pivot connection <NUM>, and to one side portion 204A of the handle frame <NUM> via a pivot connection <NUM>. For example, the pivot connection <NUM> can include pivotally connecting the side bar portion <NUM> with a coupling part <NUM> that is fixedly attached to one side segment 210A of the leg frame <NUM>, and the pivot connection <NUM> can include pivotally connecting the side bar portion <NUM> with a coupling part <NUM> that is fixedly attached to the segment <NUM> of the handle frame <NUM>. Moreover, the two side bar portions <NUM> can be further connected with a transversal portion <NUM> disposed at a front of the juvenile support assembly <NUM>.

The child support apparatus <NUM> can further include a guard member <NUM> having a generally U-shape and extending to the left and right sides of the juvenile support assembly <NUM>. According to an example of construction, the guard member <NUM> may have two opposite ends respectively connected with the two coupling parts <NUM> that are fixedly attached to the side portions 204A of the handle frame <NUM>. The guard member <NUM> can restrict lateral and forward movement of a child sitting on the juvenile support assembly <NUM>.

The juvenile support assembly <NUM> can include the resilient wire <NUM> configured to form a bearing support for a child that is elastically deformable along an upward-downward direction. Like previously described, the two ends <NUM> of the resilient wire <NUM> can be respectively attached fixedly to the two side bar portions <NUM>, and the resilient wire <NUM> can extend above the two side bar portions <NUM>. While the resilient <NUM> is shown as having a specific shape in <FIG>, it will be appreciated that any shapes described herein may be suitable. When the child support apparatus <NUM> is in an unfolded state for use, the resilient wire <NUM> may extend higher than the pivot connections <NUM>, the transversal portion <NUM> can be positionable to extend in front of the resilient wire <NUM>, and the guard member <NUM> can extend above the resilient wire <NUM>.

Moreover, the juvenile support assembly <NUM> may further include a fabric (not shown for clarity) that can cover at least partially the resilient wire <NUM> and form at least partially an outer envelop of the juvenile support assembly <NUM>, like previously described.

The standing frame <NUM> can include two leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> connected with each other via two armrests <NUM>, the leg frame <NUM> being a front leg frame and the leg frame <NUM> being a rear leg frame. Each of the leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can respectively include two side segments disposed symmetrically at a left and a right side of the standing frame <NUM>, e.g., two side segments 308A for the leg frame <NUM> and two side segments 310A for the leg frame <NUM>. At each of the left and right sides, the side segment 308A of the leg frame <NUM> and the side segment 310A of the leg frame <NUM> can be respectively coupled pivotally to one armrest <NUM>, so that the leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can rotate relative to each other during folding and unfolding of the child support apparatus <NUM>. Moreover, the two leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can respectively have a plurality of wheel assemblies <NUM> for facilitating displacement of the child support apparatus <NUM> on a floor surface.

Referring again to <FIG>, the handle frame <NUM> can be pivotally coupled to the standing frame <NUM> via two linking bars <NUM>. According to an example of construction, the handle frame <NUM> can include two side portions 304A disposed symmetrically at the left and right sides, and a grip portion 304B connected with the two side portions 304A. At each of the left and right sides, the side portion 304A of the handle frame <NUM> may be coupled to the side segment 310A of the leg frame <NUM> via the linking bar <NUM>, two opposite ends of the linking bar <NUM> being respectively coupled pivotally to the side portion 304A of the handle frame <NUM> via a pivot connection <NUM> and to the side segment 310A of the leg frame <NUM> via a pivot connection <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the handle frame <NUM> may further have a foldable structure for facilitating storage or transport of the child support apparatus <NUM>. For example, each side portion 304A can include a segment <NUM> that is pivotally coupled to the grip portion 304B via a pivot connection <NUM>. The two segments <NUM> can be respectively coupled to the standing frame <NUM> via the two linking bars <NUM>. The grip portion 304B can rotate relative to the segments <NUM> about the pivot connections <NUM> to fold or unfold the handle frame <NUM>.

Referring again to <FIG>, the child support apparatus <NUM> can further include two side bar portions <NUM> respectively disposed at the left and right sides of the juvenile support assembly <NUM>. Each side bar portion <NUM> can be respectively coupled to the standing frame <NUM> via a pivot connection <NUM> and a carrier bar <NUM>. The pivot connection <NUM> can include, e.g., a coupling part <NUM> that is fixedly attached to the side bar portion <NUM> and is pivotally connected with the corresponding side segment 308A of the leg frame <NUM>. Moreover, the side bar portion <NUM> can be pivotally coupled to the carrier bar <NUM> via the same pivot connection <NUM> that pivotally couples the side portion 304A of the handle frame <NUM> to the linking bar <NUM>. Accordingly, the side portion 304A of the handle frame <NUM>, the linking bar <NUM>, the carrier bar <NUM> and the side bar portion <NUM> can be pivotally connected with one another about a common pivot axis defined by the pivot connection <NUM> at each of the left and right sides of the child support apparatus <NUM>. The carrier bar <NUM> can be further coupled pivotally to the armrest <NUM> via a pivot connection <NUM> at a location distant from the pivot connection <NUM>. This frame construction allows adjustment of the handle frame <NUM> between two distinct positions for pushing the child support apparatus <NUM> in different directions with a child facing forward or rearward.

The juvenile support assembly <NUM> can include the resilient wire <NUM> configured to form a bearing support for a child that is elastically deformable along an upward-downward direction. The two ends <NUM> of the resilient wire <NUM> can be respectively attached fixedly to the two side bar portions <NUM>, and the resilient wire <NUM> can extend above the two side bar portions <NUM>. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the two ends <NUM> of the resilient wire <NUM> may be exemplary attached fixedly to the two coupling parts <NUM> that are fixedly connected to the two side bar portions <NUM> at the front of the juvenile support assembly <NUM>. While the resilient <NUM> is shown as having a specific shape in <FIG>, it will be appreciated that any shapes described herein may be suitable. Like described previously, the juvenile support assembly <NUM> may further include a fabric (not shown for clarity) that can cover at least partially the resilient wire <NUM>.

The standing frame <NUM> can include two leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> connected with each other via two armrests <NUM>, the leg frame <NUM> being a front leg frame and the leg frame <NUM> being a rear leg frame. Each of the leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can respectively include two side segments disposed symmetrically at a left and a right side of the standing frame <NUM>, e.g., two side segments 408A for the leg frame <NUM> and two side segments 410A for the leg frame <NUM>. At each of the left and right sides, the side segment 408A of the leg frame <NUM> and the side segment 410A of the leg frame <NUM> can be respectively coupled pivotally to one armrest <NUM>, so that the leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can rotate relative to each other during folding and unfolding of the child support apparatus <NUM>. Moreover, the two leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can respectively have a plurality of wheel assemblies <NUM> for facilitating displacement of the child support apparatus <NUM> on a floor surface.

Referring again to <FIG>, the handle frame <NUM> can be pivotally coupled to the standing frame <NUM> via two linking parts <NUM>. According to an example of construction, the handle frame <NUM> can include two side portions 404A disposed symmetrically at the left and right sides, and a grip portion 404B connected with the two side portions 404A. At each of the left and right sides, the side portion 404A of the handle frame <NUM> may be coupled to the side segment 410A of the leg frame <NUM> via one linking part <NUM>, the linking part <NUM> being respectively coupled pivotally to the side portion 404A of the handle frame <NUM> via a pivot connection <NUM> and to the side segment 410A of the leg frame <NUM> via a pivot connection <NUM>. Moreover, each side portion 404A of the handle frame <NUM> can be pivotally coupled to one armrest <NUM> via a pivot connection <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the child support apparatus <NUM> can further include two side bar portions <NUM> respectively disposed at the left and right sides of the juvenile support assembly <NUM>. Each side bar portion <NUM> can be respectively coupled to the standing frame <NUM> via a pivot connection <NUM> and one linking part <NUM>. The pivot connection <NUM> can include, e.g., a coupling part <NUM> that is fixedly attached to the side bar portion <NUM> and is pivotally connected with the corresponding side segment 408A of the leg frame <NUM>. Moreover, the side bar portion <NUM> can be pivotally coupled to the linking part <NUM> via a pivot connection <NUM> that is distinct from the pivot connections <NUM> and <NUM>.

The standing frame <NUM> can include two leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> connected with each other via two pivot joints <NUM> at the left and right sides, the leg frame <NUM> being a front leg frame and the leg frame <NUM> being a rear leg frame. Each of the leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can respectively include two side segments disposed symmetrically at a left and a right side of the standing frame <NUM>, e.g., two side segments 508A for the leg frame <NUM> and two side segments 510A for the leg frame <NUM>. At each of the left and right sides, the side segment 508A of the leg frame <NUM> and the side segment 510A of the leg frame <NUM> can be coupled pivotally to each other via the pivot joint <NUM>, so that the leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can rotate relative to each other during folding and unfolding of the child support apparatus <NUM>. Moreover, the two leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can respectively have a plurality of wheel assemblies <NUM> for facilitating displacement of the child support apparatus <NUM> on a floor surface.

Referring again to <FIG>, the handle frame <NUM> can be pivotally coupled to the standing frame <NUM> via the two pivot joints <NUM>. According to an example of construction, the handle frame <NUM> can include two side portions 504A disposed symmetrically at the left and right sides, and a grip portion 504B connected with the two side portions 504A. At each of the left and right sides, the side portion 504A of the handle frame <NUM> may be respectively coupled pivotally to the side segment 508A of the leg frame <NUM> and the side segment 510A of the leg frame <NUM> via one pivot joint <NUM>. In this manner, the handle frame <NUM> and the leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can rotate relative to one another during folding and unfolding of the child support apparatus <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the juvenile support assembly <NUM> can include the resilient wire <NUM> configured to form a bearing support for a child that is elastically deformable along an upward-downward direction. The two opposite ends <NUM> of the resilient wire <NUM> can be respectively attached fixedly to the two side segments 508A of the leg frame <NUM> at the left and right sides of the juvenile support assembly <NUM>. For example, each end <NUM> of the resilient wire <NUM> may be attached to a wire anchoring part <NUM> that is fixedly connected with each side segment 508A of the leg frame <NUM>. Moreover, the resilient wire <NUM> may be connected with a board <NUM> that can extend generally transversally behind the resilient wire <NUM> and can be connected with the two side segments 510A of the leg frame <NUM>. While the resilient <NUM> is shown as having a specific shape in <FIG>, it will be appreciated that any shapes described herein may be suitable. Like described previously, the juvenile support assembly <NUM> may further include a fabric (not shown for clarity) that can cover at least partially the resilient wire <NUM>.

When the child support apparatus <NUM> is in an unfolded state for use, the resilient wire <NUM> and the board <NUM> can be located below the pivot joints <NUM>, and can provide a cushioned support for a child.

The standing frame <NUM> can include two leg frames <NUM> and <NUM>, the leg frame <NUM> being a front leg frame and the leg frame <NUM> being a rear leg frame. Each of the leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can respectively include two side segments disposed symmetrically at a left and a right side of the standing frame <NUM>, e.g., two side segments 608A for the leg frame <NUM> and two side segments 610A for the leg frame <NUM>. The handle frame <NUM> can include two side portions 604A disposed symmetrically at the left and right sides, and a grip portion 604B connected with the two side portions 604A. At each of the left and right sides, the side segment 608A of the leg frame <NUM> and the side segment 610A of the leg frame <NUM> can be respectively coupled pivotally to the side portion 604A of the handle frame <NUM> via two distinct pivot connections <NUM> and <NUM>, so that the handle frame <NUM> and the leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can rotate relative to one another during folding and unfolding of the child support apparatus <NUM>. Moreover, the two leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can respectively have a plurality of wheel assemblies <NUM> for facilitating displacement of the child support apparatus <NUM> on a floor surface.

Referring to <FIG>, the juvenile support assembly <NUM> can include a seat board <NUM> and the resilient wire <NUM>. The seat board <NUM> can be coupled to the standing frame <NUM> via two pivot connections <NUM> and two linking bar portions <NUM>. For example, at each of the left and right sides, the seat board <NUM> can be respectively coupled pivotally to the two side segments 608A of the leg frame <NUM> via the two pivot connections <NUM>, and can be coupled to the two side segments 610A of the leg frame <NUM> via the two linking bar portions <NUM>. At each of the left and right sides, each linking bar portion <NUM> can be respectively connected pivotally with the seat board <NUM> and one side segment 610A of the leg frame <NUM>. With this assembly, the handle frame <NUM>, the leg frames <NUM> and <NUM>, the seat board <NUM> and the linking bar portions <NUM> can be movably linked to one another for folding and unfolding of the child support apparatus <NUM>.

The resilient wire <NUM> can be fixedly attached to the seat board <NUM>. For example, the seat board <NUM> can have two brackets <NUM>, and the resilient wire <NUM> may be disposed above the seat board <NUM> with the two ends <NUM> of the resilient wire <NUM> respectively fastened to the two brackets <NUM>. While the resilient <NUM> is shown as having a specific shape in <FIG>, it will be appreciated that any shapes described herein may be suitable.

Moreover, the juvenile support assembly <NUM> may include a transversal portion <NUM> pivotally connected with the two brackets <NUM> in front of the resilient wire <NUM>. The transversal portion <NUM> may serve as an adjustable leg resting member for a child. Like described previously, a fabric (not shown for clarity) may be provided to cover at least partially the resilient wire <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the child support apparatus <NUM> may further include a guard member <NUM> that is respectively connected with the two side segments 608A of the leg frame <NUM> and the two side segments 610A of the leg frame <NUM>. When the child support apparatus <NUM> is unfolded for use, the guard member <NUM> can extend above the juvenile support assembly <NUM> and restrict movement of a child sitting on the juvenile support assembly <NUM>.

The standing frame <NUM> can include two leg frames <NUM> and <NUM>, the leg frame <NUM> being a front leg frame and the leg frame <NUM> being a rear leg frame. Each of the leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can respectively include two side segments disposed symmetrically at a left and a right side of the standing frame <NUM>, e.g., two side segments 708A for the leg frame <NUM> and two side segments 710A for the leg frame <NUM>. The handle frame <NUM> can include two side portions 704A disposed symmetrically at the left and right sides, and a grip portion 704B connected with the two side portions 704A. At each of the left and right sides, the side segment 708A of the leg frame <NUM> and the side segment 710A of the leg frame <NUM> can be respectively coupled pivotally to the side portion 704A of the handle frame <NUM> via two distinct pivot connections <NUM> and <NUM>, so that the handle frame <NUM> and the leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can rotate relative to one another during folding and unfolding of the child support apparatus <NUM>. Moreover, the two leg frames <NUM> and <NUM> can respectively have a plurality of wheel assemblies <NUM> for facilitating displacement of the child support apparatus <NUM> on a floor surface.

The juvenile support assembly <NUM> is provided as a removable unit that may be installed on and removed from two connecting mounts <NUM> provided on the child support apparatus <NUM>, the two connecting mounts <NUM> being exemplary affixed with the two side portions 704A of the handle frame <NUM>. <FIG> is a perspective view illustrating the juvenile support assembly <NUM> alone. Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the juvenile support assembly <NUM> can include two side coupling parts <NUM> respectively disposed at the left and right sides of the juvenile support assembly <NUM>, two frame portions <NUM> and <NUM> and a guard member <NUM>. Each of the two frame portions <NUM> and <NUM> can have a U-shape, and can be respectively connected with the two side coupling parts <NUM>. The guard member <NUM> can also have a U-shape with two ends thereof respectively connected with the two side coupling parts <NUM>. Each side coupling part <NUM> can have a connector <NUM> operable to engage with one connecting mount <NUM> provided on the child support apparatus <NUM>. When the juvenile support assembly <NUM> is installed on the child support apparatus <NUM>, the connectors <NUM> on the two side coupling parts <NUM> can respectively engage and lock with the two connecting mounts <NUM> provided on the child support apparatus <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the resilient wire <NUM> can be disposed below the guard member <NUM> with the two ends <NUM> of the resilient wire <NUM> respectively attached fixedly to the two side coupling parts <NUM>. While the resilient <NUM> is shown as having a specific shape in <FIG> and <FIG>, it will be appreciated that any shapes described herein may be suitable. Moreover, a fabric (not shown for clarity) may be provided to cover at least partially the resilient wire <NUM>, like described previously.

Advantages of the child support apparatuses described herein include a juvenile support assembly that has a resilient wire capable of elastic deformation to dissipate vibration and/or shock energy. Accordingly, the child support apparatus can offer a more comfortable support for the child during use.

Claim 1:
A child support apparatus (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprising:
a standing frame (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>); and
a juvenile support assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) supported on the standing frame (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), the juvenile support assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) having a left side and a right side and a front end and a rear end;
wherein the juvenile support assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) includes a resilient wire (<NUM>) forming a bearing support for a child that is elastically deformable along an upward-downward direction of the juvenile support assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), the resilient wire (<NUM>) extending between the left side and the right side and having two opposite ends (<NUM>) respectively anchored at the left side and the right side of the juvenile
support assembly (<NUM>), characterized in that the resilient wire (<NUM>) is bent to form a wave shape (<NUM>) that stretches back and forth between the front end and the rear end of the juvenile support assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>).