Patent Description:
Parents and caregivers of young children often purchase and store multiple products for carrying, moving, or otherwise conveying their children from place to place and securing them during transit. For example, caregivers may have a stroller, a wagon, a bicycle seat, a hiking pack, an infant carrier, a car seat, an airline approved seat, or other assembly or system for moving children from one location to another or securing a child in a vehicle or an airplane. Caregivers may also have a high chair, a booster seat, and a child seat (e.g. for providing seating for the child outside at a park, backyard, playground, campsite, etc.). Purchasing so many products can be expensive and can require sufficient space to store the various products. An example of a child chair is disclosed in <CIT>. <CIT> discloses sit and stand strollers and <CIT> stroller seat with articulating calf support.

Generally described, aspects of the present invention relate generally to a child seat that may be coupled to various assemblies or devices for providing a range of functionalities with minimal equipment. In some aspects, the child seat may be mounted to a stroller frame. In some aspects, the child seat may be coupled to a bicycle or a bicycle adapter to provide a child carrier on a front or rear of an adult bicycle. In some aspects, the child seat may be coupled to a wagon or similar conveyance device. In some aspects, the child seat may be coupled to a chair frame for providing a chair, including, but not limited to, a chair assembly for outdoor seating, a booster chair assembly, or a high chair assembly. The seat may also couple to an assembly to convert to an airline seat, a car seat, or a car booster seat. In some aspects, the child seat may be convertible to an infant carrier or a hiking pack.

Accordingly, providing a child seat that may be coupled to other devices or assemblies can provide for convenience for parents of children while minimizing the amount of products a parent must purchase and store. The seat may include coupling components that may be coupled to the various devices or assemblies, though in some aspects, the seat may couple to the various devices or assemblies in different ways.

The specific techniques and structures employed to improve over the drawbacks of the prior devices and accomplish the advantages described herein will become apparent from the following detailed description of example embodiments and the appended drawings and claims.

Generally described, the present invention relates to a child seat that may be coupled to various assemblies or devices for providing a range of functionalities with minimal equipment. The seat may include a calf support that may be removable, foldable, or otherwise movable to provide for coupling the seat to one or more assemblies or converting the seat to one or more orientations. The seat may also include mounting or coupling components that may be sized and shaped to couple to complementary mounting or coupling components on other assemblies, for example but not limited to, a stroller, a bicycle adapter or bicycle, a wagon, a chair assembly, booster seat harness assemblies, a hiking pack assembly, an infant carrier assembly, or an airplane seat harness assembly. The seat either alone or when coupled to various assemblies may adhere to various safety standards associated with various uses of the seat, for example the safety standards as set forth in Table <NUM>. <NUM> herein.

Illustrative examples are given to introduce the reader to the general subject matter discussed herein and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosed concepts. The following sections describe various additional features and examples with reference to the drawings in which like numerals indicate like elements, and directional descriptions are used to describe the illustrative aspects, but, like the illustrative aspects, should not be used to limit the present disclosure.

<FIG> depicts a front perspective view of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a seat <NUM> according to the present invention. <FIG> provides a rear perspective view of the seat <NUM>. The seat <NUM> may comprise a polymer material, for example, but not limited to, polyethylene, polypropylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, thermoplastics, or other suitable materials. The seat <NUM> may comprise a rear exoskeleton (or rear frame member) <NUM>, a back support <NUM>, a calf support <NUM>, and a seat pan <NUM>. The rear frame member <NUM> is shown in <FIG> as being generally Y-shaped, though other shapes and orientations of the rear frame member <NUM> may be used. For example, <FIG> depicts the seat <NUM> having the rear frame member <NUM> in an alternative arrangement in which the rear frame member <NUM> is generally rectangular. As previously state, other orientations of the rear frame member <NUM> may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The back support <NUM>, the calf support <NUM>, and/or the seat pan <NUM> may comprise a polymer material which may provide for ease of cleaning the seat <NUM>, including but not limited to, the ability to clean the seat <NUM> with cleaning wipes and the ability to wash the seat <NUM> with water. In some aspects, the back support <NUM>, calf support <NUM>, and/or the seat pan <NUM> may be at least partially manufactured via molding. The back support <NUM>, the calf support <NUM>, and/or the seat pan <NUM>, are not limited to polymer materials and may comprise any suitable material that may provide improved cleaning of the seat <NUM>, for example using soap and water or disinfectant cleaning wipes. The back support <NUM> may comprise multiple cutouts <NUM> that together form a honeycomb design of the back support <NUM>. The multiple cutouts <NUM> may reduce the weight of the seat <NUM> and may also provide for improved airflow or venting through the back support <NUM> such that a child sitting in the seat <NUM> may have increased airflow and temperature comfort in the seat <NUM>. The multiple cutouts <NUM> forming the honeycomb design may also provide for greater flexibility or bendability of the back support <NUM> which may provide for additional suspension or shock absorption to improve the comfort of the child riding in the seat <NUM>. Increased flexibility in the back support <NUM> may also improve the comfort of the child sitting in the seat <NUM>. In addition, by reducing the weight of the seat <NUM>, the seat <NUM> may more easily be transported from place to place via either a stroller (e.g. <FIG>), a bicycle (e.g. <FIG>) or other means (i.e. being carried, shipped, etc.). In addition, when coupled to another assembly (e.g. a stroller as shown in <FIG> or a bicycle as shown in <FIG>), the reduced weight of the seat <NUM> may provide for easier use with less effort by the user pushing the stroller or riding the bike.

The back support <NUM> may also include openings 1012a, 1012b, 1012c, 1012d that may be sized and shaped to receive a harness apparatus <NUM> for securing children of different sizes within the seat <NUM>. The seat pan <NUM> may also receive an opening <NUM> for receiving the harness apparatus <NUM>. The seat <NUM> and/or the harness apparatus <NUM> may comply with various safety standards related to restraint systems in various products, including, but not limited, to the safety standards identified below in Table <NUM>. <NUM> as adopted at the time of the filing of this application. In some aspects, the seat <NUM> in combination with an additional assembly may comply with the safety standards identified below in Table <NUM>. <NUM> for the various products listed therein.

The harness apparatus <NUM> may be coupled to the rear frame member <NUM>, as shown in <FIG> (with back support <NUM> removed for ease of viewing). In some aspects, the harness apparatus <NUM> may be removably coupled to the seat <NUM>, for example to permit washing of the harness apparatus <NUM>. The harness apparatus <NUM> being separate from a seat cover or soft goods seat cover of the seat <NUM> may permit ease of washing the seat cover. As shown in <FIG> the harness apparatus <NUM> may be coupled to the rear frame member <NUM> via suspension elements, for example energy absorbing shocks <NUM>. The harness apparatus <NUM> may be uncoupled from the rear frame member <NUM> and the seat pan <NUM>, for example for cleaning, storage, shipping, or other purposes. The harness apparatus <NUM> may be removably coupled to the rear frame member <NUM> and/or the seat pan <NUM> via snap fit engagement or other suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force. As shown in <FIG> the harness apparatus <NUM> may be a five-point harness, though in other aspects of the present disclosure the harness apparatus <NUM> may not constitute a five-point harness.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the back support <NUM> may be coupled to the rear frame member <NUM> via energy absorbing shocks <NUM>. The energy absorbing shocks <NUM> may provide for a more comfortable ride in the seat <NUM> by a child during use when the seat <NUM> is coupled to another assembly, for example, but not limited to, a stroller (see <FIG>) or a bicycle or bicycle adapter (see <FIG>). In some aspects, the back support <NUM> may be removably coupled to the rear frame member <NUM> while in other aspects the back support <NUM> may not be uncoupled from the rear frame member <NUM>. The rear frame member <NUM> may have a different shape or orientation than that shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, for example as shown in <FIG>.

In addition, as shown in <FIG>, in some aspects, the back support <NUM> may rotate, pivot, or fold relative to the seat pan <NUM> from a use position into a storage position about a hub assembly such that the back support <NUM> may be positioned between the arm bar <NUM> and the seat pan <NUM>, for example by removing the arm bar <NUM>, folding the back support <NUM> toward the seat pan <NUM> and coupling the arm bar <NUM> into place to aid in retaining the back support <NUM> in the folded (or storage) position. The hub assembly may correspond to a location at which the back support <NUM> is coupled to an armrest <NUM> of the seat <NUM>. The back support <NUM> may be rotated between the use position and storage position by actuating an actuator <NUM> between a locked and an unlocked position. The actuator <NUM> is shown in <FIG> as a button, though, in some aspects, the actuator <NUM> may be a lever or other suitable actuator. The actuator <NUM> is shown as being on the hub assembly, though, in other aspects, it may be located elsewhere on the seat <NUM>.

In some aspects, as shown in <FIG>, the rear frame member <NUM> may be removably coupled to the seat pan <NUM>, for example via snap fit engagement or other suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force. As shown in <FIG> the back support <NUM> may be decoupled from the seat pan <NUM> by decoupling the rear frame member <NUM> from the seat pan <NUM> via a release button or actuator <NUM>. The release button <NUM> may be positioned on the rear frame <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. In some aspects, one or more release buttons <NUM> may be positioned on one or more of the hub assemblies <NUM> (see <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>). In some aspects, both hub assemblies <NUM> may each include a release button <NUM> (which may include a latch, a button, etc.). In some aspects, only one release button <NUM> need be actuated to decouple the rear frame member <NUM> from the seat pan <NUM>, while in other aspects both release buttons <NUM> may need to be actuated to decouple the rear frame member <NUM> from the seat pan <NUM>. In some aspects, the release button <NUM> may be positioned elsewhere on the seat <NUM>, for example, but not limited to, on the rear frame member <NUM>. In some aspects, the release button <NUM> may be a latch or other feature. The back support <NUM> may also angle or recline relative to the seat pan <NUM> via an actuator <NUM> that may be positioned on the hub assembly <NUM> or elsewhere on the seat <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> may be a lever, a button, or any other suitable feature for controlling the position of the back support <NUM>.

In some aspects, the back support <NUM> may be folded down against or positioned adjacent to the seat pan <NUM> for reducing the size of the seat <NUM> during shipping, storage, or travel. Thus, the seat <NUM> may be broken down into smaller parts for ease of storage, shipping, or travel. In some aspects, as shown in <FIG>, the rear frame member <NUM> and back support <NUM> may be sized and shaped to be received between the arm bar <NUM> on the seat <NUM> and the seat pan <NUM>, or may simply be positioned adjacent the seat pan <NUM> where the arm bar <NUM> has been removed. By reducing the size of the seat <NUM> shipping costs may be reduced, the seat <NUM> may be broken down for travel via car, airline, or other transportation means, and the seat <NUM> may be stored temporarily or long term with minimal storage space required. The arm bar <NUM> may be removably coupled to the seat <NUM> via snap fit engagement or other suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force. As shown in <FIG>, in some aspect the back support <NUM> may fold or pivot towards the seat pan <NUM> to position the seat <NUM> in a storage position.

As shown in <FIG>, the calf support <NUM> may be moved from a use position where the calf support <NUM> is positioned to support the legs of a child in the seat <NUM> to a storage position in which the calf support <NUM> does not support the legs of the child and which converts the seat <NUM> to a position for another use or to permit the seat <NUM> to be coupled to another assembly. Thus, as disclosed herein, in addition to moving the calf support <NUM> to an unsupported position relative to the child's legs, the calf support <NUM> may also be moved such that the seat <NUM> is converted to another use or is able to be coupled to another assembly without the calf support <NUM> interfering.

<FIG> depicts an example of the present invention in which the calf support <NUM> of the seat <NUM>, may be rotated between the use position (shown in <FIG>) and the storage position (shown in <FIG>). The calf support <NUM> may rotate via a hub assembly <NUM> about a pivot point. The hub assembly <NUM> may include an actuator that may move between a locked and an unlocked position for locking the calf support <NUM> in a use position or unlocking the calf support <NUM> for positioning in a storage position. As shown in <FIG>, the hub assembly <NUM> may provide for an angle Ω between a frame member <NUM> of the seat <NUM> and the calf support <NUM> when the calf support <NUM> is in the storage position to prevent a pinch point between the frame member <NUM> and the calf support <NUM> that could pinch a child's fingers. As shown in the bottom perspective view of <FIG>, the seat pan <NUM> and the calf support <NUM> may be scalloped or shaped to nest together when the calf support <NUM> is in the storage position (as shown in <FIG>). The term nest includes configurations in which the calf support <NUM> rests at least partially against a bottom surface <NUM> of the seat pan <NUM> as well configurations in which the calf support rests adjacent to the bottom surface <NUM> of the seat pan <NUM> in the storage position. In some aspects, for example as shown in <FIG>, the seat pan <NUM> may be flat or angled as opposed to scalloped, however the calf support <NUM> may still nest or otherwise rest against or adjacent to the bottom surface <NUM> of the seat pan <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the calf support <NUM> may rotate about the pivot point of the hub assembly <NUM> to a storage position in which the calf support <NUM> is positioned under the seat pan <NUM> such that the calf support <NUM> nests against the seat pan <NUM>.

While <FIG> depict an aspect of the present invention in which the calf support <NUM> folds or rotates between the use position and the storage position, other suitable means for moving or manipulating the calf support <NUM> to convert the seat <NUM> to another use or permit the seat <NUM> to couple to another assembly without interference of the calf support <NUM>, may be used. For example, <FIG> depicts an aspect in which the calf support <NUM> may be removably coupled to the seat <NUM>, including, but not limited to, the seat pan <NUM>. The calf support <NUM> may be unlocked and removed from the seat <NUM> by actuating an actuator <NUM> from a locked to an unlocked position. Though <FIG> depicts the actuator <NUM> positioned on the calf support <NUM>, in some aspects, the actuator <NUM> may be positioned on the seat pan <NUM> or elsewhere on the seat <NUM>, including, but not limited to, on the frame member <NUM>. In still yet other aspects of the present disclosure, the calf support <NUM> may be slid between the use position and the storage position, for example as shown in <FIG>. As shown in <FIG>, the calf support <NUM> may be rotated and then slid to the storage position adjacent the seat pan <NUM>.

In some aspects, the seat <NUM> may include a split calf support <NUM> as depicted in <FIG>. The split calf support <NUM> may provide for the seat <NUM> being convertible between use with a stroller (see <FIG>) and use with a bicycle or bicycle adapter (see <FIG>). In some aspects, the split calf support <NUM> may be removably coupled to the seat <NUM> such that the split calf support <NUM> may be replaced with the calf support <NUM>.

<FIG> show additional aspects of the present invention in which a calf support, for example including but not limited to calf support <NUM>, can be manipulated or removed to enable moving a seat (e.g. seat <NUM>) between various assemblies or configurations. In the storage position (including removal of the calf support <NUM> from the seat <NUM>), the calf support <NUM> can be positioned to minimize the size of the seat <NUM> and to permit the seat <NUM> to be coupled to other assemblies such as a stroller, a bike, a high chair, or other assemblies.

As described herein, the calf support <NUM> may be positioned in the storage position for using the seat <NUM> in a configuration such as a booster seat (see <FIG>), a hiking pack (see <FIG>), an infant carrier (see <FIG>), a car seat or booster seat (see <FIG>), or an airplane seat (see <FIG>), or other configurations. The calf support <NUM> may be positionable between the use and storage positions via any suitable means including, but not limit to, folding, rotating, removing, decoupling, sliding, or flipping, the calf support <NUM> relative to other elements of the seat <NUM>, or via any other suitable means.

The present invention contemplates additional means and configurations for providing a calf support that may be coupled to or integral with the seat <NUM>. For example, <FIG> depicts a calf support <NUM> having a foot rest <NUM> that couples to the seat pan <NUM> via an extension member <NUM>. The calf support <NUM> may optionally be rotatable upwards relative to the seat pan <NUM> to convert to a holding bar or arm bar for the child, as shown in <FIG>. In another embodiment, as shown in <FIG>, the seat <NUM> may include a calf support <NUM> comprising a frame member <NUM> and a removable fabric backing <NUM> that may be coupled to the frame member <NUM>, such that the calf support (with the fabric backing <NUM> removed) may be rotated upwards approximately <NUM>-<NUM> degrees such that the frame member of the calf support converts to an arm bar or grab bar for the seat <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. In still yet other aspects, as shown in <FIG> the seat <NUM> may include a calf support <NUM> that may comprise elements <NUM> (including bars, frame members, fabric panels, etc.) that may be linked or coupled together such that the calf support <NUM> may be folded into a storage position. In still yet other aspects, the seat <NUM> may not include a calf support <NUM>. In such aspects, for example as shown in <FIG>, a calf support <NUM> may be coupled to another assembly, for example a stroller <NUM>, where the calf support may be used in conjunction with the seat <NUM> when the seat <NUM> is coupled to the stroller <NUM>.

<FIG> depict a canopy <NUM> that may be removably coupled to the seat <NUM>. The canopy <NUM> may provide for shade or protection of the child in the seat <NUM>. The canopy <NUM> may include hub assemblies <NUM> that may couple to the seat <NUM> (for example at hub assemblies <NUM>) via any suitable means including, but not limited to snap fit engagement or other suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force. For example, in some aspects, the hub assemblies <NUM> and hub assemblies <NUM> may comprise one or more magnets <NUM>. In some aspects, the magnets <NUM> may be removably coupled to the hub assemblies <NUM> and <NUM>. The magnets <NUM> of the hub assemblies <NUM> and <NUM> may be oriented such that the hub assemblies <NUM> are attracted to the hub assemblies <NUM> such that when the hub assemblies <NUM> and <NUM> are positioned adjacent one another the magnetic force between the magnets <NUM> couples the canopy <NUM> to the seat <NUM>. The magnetic attachment between the canopy <NUM> and the seat <NUM> may allow for the easy removal and installation of the canopy <NUM> by making the canopy <NUM> relative to the seat <NUM>.

The canopy <NUM> may be moveable between multiple positions, for example between an extended position (shown in <FIG>) in which a greater surface area of material is expanded to shade the child and an upright position (shown in <FIG>) in which less surface are of material is expanded to shade the child. As shown in <FIG>, the canopy <NUM> may include a panel <NUM> that may provide for airflow or venting. In some aspects, the panel <NUM> may be a mesh panel or may comprise another material that provides for greater airflow through the panel <NUM> as compared to the remainder of the canopy <NUM>. In some aspects, the panel <NUM> may be a see through material, a clear material, a mesh material or another suitable material that provides for viewing through the panel <NUM> so that the child may be viewed through the panel <NUM> and so that the child may see through the panel <NUM>. In some aspects, the canopy <NUM> may be collapsed to a storage position while coupled to the seat <NUM> such that the canopy <NUM> is folded into itself and does not shade the child.

As shown in <FIG>, the seat <NUM> may also include one or more feet <NUM> that may extend from a bottom region <NUM> of the seat <NUM>. In some aspects, the feet <NUM> may be integrally formed with the seat <NUM>. In other aspects, the feet <NUM> may be removably coupled to the seat <NUM>. The feet <NUM> may be sized and shaped to balance and retain the seat <NUM> in a secure sitting position on a surface. For example, the feet <NUM> may stabilize the seat <NUM> on a surface <NUM> such as the flooring of a home, an outdoor ground surface, or on a surface such as a chair seat. In some aspects, the feet <NUM> may also include non-slip features (not visible in <FIG>) which may increase the frictional contact between the feet <NUM> and the surface <NUM> on which the seat <NUM> is positioned, thereby further securing the seat <NUM> in place. The non-slip features may comprise a rubberized material or other material that may increase the frictional contact between the feet <NUM> and the surface <NUM> on which the seat <NUM> is positioned. As shown in <FIG>, the feet <NUM> may extend from the frame member <NUM> of the seat <NUM>. Moreover, as shown in <FIG>, the feet <NUM> may be sized to extend beyond the calf support <NUM> when the calf support <NUM> is in the stored position, such that the feet <NUM> contact the surface <NUM> on which the seat <NUM> is positioned instead (or in addition to) the stored calf support <NUM>. In some aspects, the feet <NUM> may extend from the calf support <NUM>, for example as shown in <FIG>.

As shown in FIGS. 12A-C, optional soft goods, including for example a seat cover <NUM> may be installed on the seat <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>). The seat cover <NUM> (shown decoupled from the seat <NUM> in <FIG>) may comprise a fabric material that may be washable, stain resistant, stain proof, and/or fade proof. The seat cover <NUM> may also include padding or other material to provide a softer seating environment for the child in the seat <NUM> when the seat cover <NUM> is coupled to the seat <NUM>. The seat cover <NUM> may be machine washable in its entirety, for example it may not include materials that are not machine washable, for example, but not limited to, cardboard or other support structure features that may prevent the machine washing of the seat cover <NUM>. For example, the harness apparatus <NUM> may not be coupled to the seat cover <NUM> so as to permit washing of the seat cover <NUM> in a washing machine. The seat cover <NUM> may be removably coupled to the seat <NUM> via snap fit engagement or other suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force. For example, the seat cover <NUM> may be coupled to the seat <NUM> via hook and loop fasteners. In other aspects, the seat <NUM> may include one or more magnets that may be coupled to the seat <NUM>, including embedded within the seat <NUM> (e.g. embedded within the back support <NUM>, the seat pan <NUM>, the frame member <NUM>, and/or the calf support <NUM>). The magnets may be embedded within the seat <NUM> or within a housing assembly to reduce choking and health hazards associated with children swallowing magnets. As shown in FIG. 12C the seat cover <NUM> may comprise a seat back portion 1052A and a seat pan portion 1052B which may be coupled together via one or more fasteners <NUM>. 12C the fastener <NUM> is shown as a zipper extending across edges 1059a-c of the seat back portion 1052A and edge 1061a-c of the seat pan portion 1052B. In some aspects, the one or more fasteners <NUM> may couple the seat back portion 1052A and the seat pan portion 1052B via snap fit engagement or other suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force, for example but not included via hook and loop fasteners. The seat back portion 1052A may be coupled to the seat <NUM> independently of the seat pan portion 1052B and vice versa. For example, the seat pan portion 1052B may be used without the seat back portion 1052A when the seat <NUM> is coupled to a bicycle via an adapter, for example bicycle adapter <NUM>, or vice versa.

The seat cover <NUM> may be removed from the seat <NUM> for washing and/or replacement. In some aspects, the seat cover <NUM> may be replaced with an alternative seat cover if the seat cover <NUM> becomes damaged or stained. In some aspects, the seat cover <NUM> may be replaced with an alternative seat cover of a different color or pattern. The seat <NUM> need not be used with the seat cover <NUM>. For example, it may be desirable to use the seat <NUM> without the seat cover <NUM> when the seat <NUM> is intended to be used in an environment where dirt, water, food, and/or drinks will be present. For example, when the seat <NUM> may be used as a child seat on the ground outside. In such an example, it may be desirable to use the seat <NUM> without the seat cover <NUM> so that dirt, water, food, drink, etc. is more easily cleaned from the seat <NUM> where the seat <NUM> comprises a polymer material. Similarly, as shown in <FIG>, when the seat <NUM> is configured as a camping chair or a high chair, or as shown in <FIG> as a booster seat, it may be desirable to use the seat <NUM> without the seat cover <NUM> for ease of cleaning the seat <NUM> itself and to prevent food or drink from dirtying the seat cover <NUM> such that it must be cleaned or washed. The seat <NUM> comprising a non-fabric material, for example but not limited to a polymer material, may also provide for ease of cleaning in extreme environments, such as when the seat <NUM> is coupled to a bicycle and used in muddy conditions that may cover the seat <NUM> in mud and dirt.

The seat <NUM> may be removably coupled to or converted into multiple assemblies, for example, but not limited to, a stroller, a bicycle or bicycle adapter, a wagon, a dining chair, a high chair, a camping or outdoor chair, an airplane child seat, a hiking pack, and others. As shown in <FIG>, the seat <NUM> may include mounting components 1054a, 1054b (see also <FIG>) on opposite sides of the seat <NUM> (only outer surface of mounting component 1054b is visible in <FIG>). In some aspects, the mounting components 1054a, 1054b may be part of, or adjacent to, the respective hub assemblies <NUM> of the seat <NUM>. In <FIG> the mounting component 1054b is positioned within the hub assembly <NUM> and may be accessible via an opening in the bottom of the hub assembly <NUM>. In some aspects, the mounting components 1054a, 1054b are positioned elsewhere on the seat <NUM>, including, but not limited to, on the frame member <NUM>, on the seat pan <NUM>, on the back support <NUM>, or elsewhere on the seat <NUM>. The mounting components 1054a, 1054b may mate with corresponding mounting components on other assemblies that are sized and shaped to couple to the mounting components 1054a, 1054b, including but not limited to a stroller, a bicycle or bicycle adapter, a wagon, a high chair, a camping or outdoor chair, a hiking pack, or other assemblies. The mounting components 1054a, 1054b may couple to the corresponding mounting components on the assemblies via snap fit engagement or other suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force. The mounting components 1054a, 1054b may be actuated between a locked and an unlocked position relative to the mounting components on the assemblies via one or more actuators 1055a, 1055b as shown in <FIG> (see also <FIG>). The one or more actuators 1055a, 1055b may be positioned on the seat <NUM>, for example but not limited to on the hub assemblies <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, or on the other assembly, or in some aspects on a combination of the seat <NUM> and the other assembly. Additional examples of options for the location and functionality of the mounting components 1054a, 1054b of the seat <NUM> are described further below though additional structures, locations, and functionality may be used.

In some aspects, as shown in <FIG>, the seat <NUM> may include a calf support <NUM> that may include one or more projections (or features) <NUM>. While <FIG> depicts four projections <NUM>, more or fewer projections may be included. The projections <NUM> may extend out a sufficient distance relative to the calf support <NUM> to contact a surface <NUM> on which the seat <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>) is positioned when the calf support <NUM> is in a stored position and may act in the same manner as the feet <NUM> described with reference to <FIG>. Thus, the one or more projections <NUM> on the calf support <NUM> may provide for the stable and secure positioning of the seat <NUM> on the surface <NUM> (e.g. a floor, an outdoor ground surface, a chair surface, etc.).

The seat <NUM> may include additional accessories. For example, as shown in <FIG>, a tray <NUM> may be removably coupled to the seat <NUM>. The tray <NUM> may include an eating or playing surface <NUM>, a cup holder <NUM>, and a horn <NUM>. The horn <NUM> may provide for aiding in retaining a child within the seat <NUM> and may define respective leg openings 1092a, 1092b between the tray <NUM> and the seat pan <NUM>. <FIG> depicts the tray <NUM> coupled to the seat <NUM>, for example via snap fit engagement with openings 1094a, 1094b in the frame member <NUM>. In some aspects, the tray <NUM> may be removably coupled to the seat <NUM> via other suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force. In some aspects, the tray <NUM> may be coupled to the seat <NUM> at different locations on the seat <NUM>, or in some aspects may be coupled to another assembly (e.g. a stroller, a chair, etc.). In another aspect, the tray <NUM> may not include the horn <NUM>, for example as shown in <FIG>.

<FIG> depicts an optional arm bar <NUM> coupled to the seat <NUM>. The arm bar <NUM> may include one or more cup holders <NUM>. The arm bar <NUM> may be coupled to the seat <NUM> at openings 1100a, 1100b in the frame member <NUM> of the seat <NUM> though other suitable fastening or securing means may be used, for example fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force. In some aspects, the arm bar <NUM> may be coupled to the seat <NUM> at different locations on the seat <NUM>, or in some aspects may be coupled to another assembly (e.g. a stroller, a chair, etc.). As shown in <FIG>, the arm bar <NUM> may be uncoupled from the seat <NUM>, in addition, the one or more cup holders <NUM> may be uncoupled from the arm bar <NUM>. In some aspects, the one or more cup holders <NUM> may be directly coupled to the seat <NUM> without the use of the arm bar <NUM>.

Aspects of the present invention include a stroller <NUM>, depicted in <FIG>, to which a seat, for example seat <NUM>, may be removably coupled. In some aspects, the seat may be different from the seat <NUM> described above. As described above, the seat <NUM> may include mounting components 1054a, 1054b (only 1054a is viewable in <FIG>) that couple to one or more corresponding mounting components <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) on the stroller <NUM> such that the seat <NUM> may be selectively coupled to and uncoupled from the stroller <NUM>.

Features of the stroller <NUM> are described further with reference to <FIG> which depicts the stroller <NUM> with the seat <NUM> removed for ease of viewing the features of the stroller <NUM>. The stroller <NUM> may include a frame <NUM> comprising upper frame members <NUM>, lower frame members <NUM>, and wheel frame members <NUM> that extend between wheels <NUM> and junctions <NUM> between the upper frame members <NUM> and the lower frame members <NUM>. The stroller <NUM> also includes a handle <NUM> that may telescopically extend and retract within an inner region of the upper frame members <NUM> to adjust to the height of the person pushing the stroller <NUM>. The stroller <NUM> may optionally include a basket or container <NUM> that may be removable coupled to the stroller <NUM> for carrying things. The seat <NUM> may be positionable in various reclined and/or upright positions while coupled to the stroller <NUM>. In some aspects, an actuator, for example actuator <NUM>, may control the position of the seat <NUM> relative to the stroller <NUM> and may be actuated to recline the seat <NUM> while the seat <NUM> is coupled to the stroller <NUM>. In some aspects, an actuator on the stroller <NUM> may control the recline angle of the seat <NUM> when the seat <NUM> is coupled to the stroller <NUM>. In some aspects, the actuator may be positioned on the frame <NUM> of the stroller <NUM>.

The stroller may include suspension components 1220a, 1220b, 1220c, and 1220d. While four suspension components 1220a-d are depicted in <FIG>, in some embodiments fewer or more suspension components may be used in the stroller <NUM>. The suspension components 1220a-d may be spring suspension components that absorb energy for improving the smoothness of the ride for the child riding in the stroller <NUM>. For example, the suspension components 1220a, 1220b may each include one or more spring elements designed to selectively engage in response to the weight of the child in the stroller <NUM>. For example, an infant in the seat <NUM> coupled to the stroller <NUM> may be relatively light (e.g. less than approximately <NUM> Ibs) which may engage only a single spring of the suspension components 1220a, 1220b. In infant use, the single spring may retain the suspension components 1220a, 1220b in an engaged (i.e. the spring may not be fully compressed or bottomed out) such that the suspension components 1220a, 1220b absorb energy and provide for a smoother ride for the child.

A heavier child (e.g. greater than approximately <NUM> Ibs for example), for example a toddler or older child may weigh significantly more than the infant and may cause a second spring of the suspension components 1220a, 1220b to engage in addition to the engagement of the first spring. The additional engagement of the second spring may prevent the two springs from being fully compressed or bottomed out, thereby maintaining the shock or energy absorbing characteristics of the suspension components 1220a, 1220b when a heavier child is in the stroller. The enlarged view of suspension component 1220b in <FIG> depicts the ability of the suspension component 1220b to adjust the number of springs engaged based on the weight of the child to aid in providing shock absorption during use with larger children where the the suspension component 1220b would otherwise bottom in the "firm" position if only a single spring were used. In other words, the suspension components 1220a, 1220b may include multiple suspension settings. Each suspension setting may be designed to be optimal for a weight range of a child to maximize comfort. For example, a first spring may always be active as a shock absorber in each of the suspension components 1220a, 1220b. An optional second spring in each of the suspension components 1220a, 1220b may be activated when the first spring is in the "firm" position. The "firm" position may correspond to a position in which the first spring is fully compressed or substantially compresses. The springs may be metallic or polymer coil springs (e.g. stainless steel, carbon fiber, etc.), though in some aspects the spring may comprise an elastomeric member as the spring member. In addition, the suspension components 1220a-d may automatically adjust for the road surface the stroller <NUM> is being pushed on as well as the activity the stroller <NUM> is engaging in. In such a manner, the suspension components 1220a-d absorb energy that would otherwise be transmitted to the child in the seat <NUM> which may result in a bumpy or otherwise uncomfortable ride for the child. Suspension components 1220c, 1220d may also include one or more springs as discussed above with respect to suspension components 1220a, 1220b. In addition, as discussed with reference to <FIG>, the seat <NUM> may also include additional energy absorbing shocks that may include one or more springs, or may comprise different shock absorption features.

As shown in <FIG>, the upper frame members <NUM> of stroller <NUM> may be angled relative to the lower frame members <NUM> such that the upper frame members <NUM> and lower frame members <NUM> are not parallel with one another. Instead, the upper frame members <NUM> and be positioned at an angle α relative to the lower frame members <NUM> at junctions <NUM>. In some aspects, the upper frame members <NUM> may not be angled relative to the lower frame member <NUM>. The angle α may be between about <NUM> degrees and about <NUM> degrees, between about <NUM> degrees and about <NUM> degrees, or about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees. As a result, a user pushing the stroller <NUM> may have better leverage for controlling the stroller <NUM> in a variety of environments, including unpaved or uneven terrain. In other words, the angle α between the upper frame members <NUM> and the lower frame members <NUM> at junctions <NUM> (and the location of junctions <NUM>) can provide for better control and easier pushing of the stroller <NUM> by a user, including on uneven terrain or when overcoming obstacles (i.e., rocks, hills, dips, curbs, cracks, potholes, etc.). The location of the of the junctions <NUM> and the angle α may be at least partially dependent on other features of the stroller <NUM> including but not limited to the positions of the wheel frame members <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM>, the length of the upper frame members <NUM>, the length of the lower frame members <NUM>, the position of the seat <NUM>, and/or other features of the stroller <NUM>. The angle α also provides for a greater kick space behind the stroller <NUM> than if the upper frame member <NUM> were parallel to the lower frame members <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a side view of the stroller <NUM> with the basket <NUM> removed and the seat <NUM> removed. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the wheel frame members <NUM> are coupled to the frame <NUM> at a pivot point <NUM> positioned proximate to the junction <NUM> between the upper frame members <NUM> and the lower frame members <NUM> by a connector <NUM>. The connector <NUM> may be generally L-shaped or dog-legged so as to position the wheel frame members <NUM> below the pivot point <NUM> (i.e. closer to the ground when the stroller <NUM> is in the use position). In other words, the connector <NUM> may have an angle or a curved portion <NUM> such that the wheel frame members <NUM> extend from the connector <NUM> at a point lower than or below the pivot point <NUM>. The shape of the connector <NUM> can thereby permit the pivot point <NUM> to be at a select location along the frame <NUM> while providing the wheel frame members <NUM> to extend relative to the frame <NUM> from a position below the pivot point <NUM> (i.e. at a location closer to the lower frame members <NUM> than the pivot points <NUM>). In the storage (or folded) position (see <FIG>), the wheel frame members <NUM> may fold towards the lower frame members <NUM> about the pivot point <NUM> for minimizing the size of the stroller <NUM> for storage or transport.

<FIG> depicts a perspective view of the stroller <NUM>. The stroller <NUM> may have a use position (as shown in <FIG> without the basket <NUM>) and a storage (or folded) position (as shown in <FIG>). In the use position the stroller <NUM> may have a maximum width, for example <NUM> inches, <NUM> inches, <NUM> inches, <NUM> inches, <NUM> inches, or <NUM> inches, to provide for easier passage within a door frame. As shown in FIG. 24A, the basket <NUM> has been uncoupled from the stroller <NUM>. The stroller <NUM> may fold into the storage position by activating an actuator <NUM> and applying a force to the handle <NUM> of the stroller <NUM> to force the stroller <NUM> to fold at a pair of hinges <NUM> in the frame <NUM>. 24B depicts the stroller <NUM> in the storage position in which the frame <NUM> of the stroller <NUM> has been folded, with the handle <NUM> folding town towards the wheels <NUM> to minimize the size of the stroller <NUM>. As shown in FIG. 24B, the hinges <NUM> include a first hinge element <NUM> comprising a groove <NUM> sized and shaped to receive a second hinge element <NUM>. The first hinge element <NUM> and the second hinge element <NUM> rotated relative to one another about a pivot point <NUM>. The second hinge element <NUM> may be moved from a locked and unlocked position within the groove <NUM> of the first hinge element <NUM> via the actuator <NUM>. The wheel frame members <NUM> fold toward the lower frame members <NUM> about the pivot point <NUM>. As shown in FIG. 24C, in the folded position, the handle <NUM> may act in part as a kickstand or other balance feature to retain the stroller <NUM> in a standing position when in the storage position. The position of the hinges <NUM> may be at least partially dependent on the position of the mounting components <NUM>, the junctions <NUM> between the upper frame members <NUM> and the lower frame members <NUM>, the position of the wheel frame members <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM>, the position of the seat (e.g. seat <NUM>) when coupled to the stroller <NUM>, and/or other features of the stroller <NUM>. Similarly, the location of the hinges <NUM> may influence or define the positions of the wheel frame members <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM>, the junctions <NUM> between the upper frame members <NUM> and the lower frame members <NUM>, the position of the seat <NUM>, and/or other features of the stroller.

As shown in <FIG>. , in some aspects, the stroller <NUM> may be what is commonly referred to as a jogging stroller. In such an aspect, the stroller <NUM> may have only three wheels <NUM>. A seat, including for example seat <NUM>, may be coupled to the jogging stroller in the same or different manner as described above. In some aspects, the stroller <NUM> may be a more lightweight stroller, for example an umbrella stroller or other similar stroller.

In some aspects, when the seat <NUM> is coupled to the stroller <NUM> an additional seat <NUM> may also be coupled to the stroller <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG>. As shown in <FIG>, the additional seat <NUM> may couple to the stroller <NUM> via a seat adapter <NUM>, in some aspects the seat adapter <NUM> may be integral with the additional seat <NUM>.

The stroller <NUM> may also be used in conjunction with additional accessories, for example a standing board <NUM>, shown coupled to the stroller <NUM> in <FIG>. The standing board <NUM> provides for a standing surface <NUM> for a child and wheels <NUM> such that the standing board <NUM> when coupled to the stroller <NUM> moves with the stroller <NUM> as a child stands on top of the standing board <NUM>. <FIG> depicts the standing board <NUM> uncoupled from the stroller <NUM>. Further, <FIG> depicts the wheels <NUM> of the stroller <NUM> removed so that an exemplary coupling attachment between the standing board <NUM> and the stroller <NUM> is more easily visible. As shown in <FIG>, the standing board <NUM> may include mounting arms <NUM> and that further include projections <NUM>. The projections <NUM> can be sized and shaped to fit within openings <NUM> on the stroller <NUM> for securing the standing boards <NUM> to the stroller <NUM>. The openings <NUM> may be positioned on the frame <NUM> of the stroller <NUM> or in any other suitable location.

Aspects of the present invention include a seat, for example seat <NUM>, that may be removably coupled (indirectly or directly) to various assemblies, including for example a bicycle. <FIG> depicts a bicycle adapter <NUM> that may be coupled to a bicycle <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). The bicycle adapter <NUM> may also include a frame <NUM> coupled to the base <NUM>, seat mounting components 1408a, 1408b, and foot guards 1410a, 1410b. The seat mounting components 1408a, 1408b may include snap fit features, though in some aspects other suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force may be used. The seat mounting components 1408a, 1408b may mate with the mounting components 1054a, 1054b of the seat <NUM> such that the seat <NUM> may be easily and quickly be coupled to the bicycle adapter <NUM> and thereby to the bicycle <NUM>. The seat <NUM> may also be easily and quickly uncoupled from the bicycle adapter <NUM> by actuating one or more actuators on the seat <NUM>, for example actuators 1055a, 1055b. In some aspects, the seat <NUM> may be decoupled by one or more actuators on the bicycle adapter <NUM>. Thus, the seat <NUM> may be coupled to and decoupled from the bicycle adapter <NUM> without the use of tools (e.g. screw driver, drill, wrench) and instead may essentially clip into and clip out of the bicycle adapter <NUM> for providing a safe seating area for a child on the bicycle <NUM>. In some aspects, the seat <NUM> may couple to the bicycle adapter <NUM> via other suitable means without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Thus, the seat <NUM> may be coupled to the bicycle adapter <NUM> to mount the seat <NUM> to the bicycle <NUM> and may also be coupled to other assemblies, for example the stroller <NUM> (see e.g. <FIG>). In some aspects, the seat <NUM> may couple to the bicycle adapter <NUM> and the stroller <NUM> via the same mounting components (e.g. mounting components 1054a, 1054b). In some aspects, the seat <NUM> may couple to the stroller <NUM> and the bicycle adapter <NUM> via different mounting components, for example as shown in <FIG>.

The foot guards 1410a, 1410b provide resting places for the child's legs and feet on either side of the bicycle <NUM> when the child is positioned in the seat <NUM>. The foot guards 1410a, 1410b also prevent a child's foot from getting trapped in a spoke of a wheel of the bicycle <NUM> which could cause significant injury to the child. In some aspects, the foot guards 1410a, 1410b may also include securing elements 1412a, 1412b for retaining the child's feet within the foot guards 1410a, 1410b. While in <FIG> the securing elements 1412a, 1412b are depicted as straps, in some aspects the securing elements 1412a, 1412b may be foot covers or housings that receive the feet of the child. The foot guards 1410a, 1410b also include wall elements 1414a, 1414b and foot resting surfaces 1416a, 1416b for protecting the child's feet and legs and for providing a comfortable resting spot for the child's feet and legs. The seat <NUM> and/or the bicycle adapter <NUM> may also include reflector features for reflecting light and increasing the safety of the use of the bicycle <NUM>.

The bicycle adapter <NUM> and the seat <NUM> may be designed such that when the seat <NUM> is coupled to the bicycle adapter <NUM> on the bicycle <NUM>, the assembly together complies with various safety standards including for example the safety standards identified in Table <NUM>. In addition, the frame <NUM> and the base <NUM> of the bicycle adapter <NUM> may define a container space or basket <NUM> that may receive and retain accessories or items when a seat is not coupled to the bicycle adapter. For example, as shown in <FIG>, a bag, box, or other item <NUM> may be positioned within the container space <NUM> for transporting. The honeycomb pattern in the back support <NUM> of the seat <NUM> can reduce air resistance when biking with the seat <NUM> coupled to the bicycle <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the bicycle adapter <NUM> may be coupled to a rear region <NUM> behind the seat of the bicycle <NUM> via one or more bicycle mounting components. In some aspects, the bicycle mounting components may be positioned on an underside of the base <NUM> of the bicycle adapter <NUM>, while in other aspects the bicycle mounting components may be positioned elsewhere on the bicycle adapter <NUM> for coupling to the bicycle <NUM>. The bicycle mounting components <NUM> may include latches, screws, ties, or other suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force. The bicycle adapter <NUM> may require tools (e.g. screw driver, drill, wrench) to secure to the bicycle <NUM> via the bicycle mounting components <NUM>. As such, the bicycle adapter <NUM> may not be quickly removed or uncoupled from the bicycle <NUM>. In some aspects, the bicycle adapter <NUM> may be removably mounted to the bicycle <NUM> without the use of tools.

In some aspects of the present invention, the bicycle adapter <NUM> may couple to the bicycle <NUM> via a mounting rack <NUM> that may be an off the shelf bike rack as shown in <FIG>, <FIG> (depicting the bicycle adapter <NUM> coupled to the mounting rack <NUM>), and <FIG> (depicting the seat <NUM> coupled to the bicycle adapter <NUM>). In such an aspect, the bicycle mounting components may include mechanical fasteners, including for example bolts, washers, nuts, etc..

In some aspects, the bicycle adapter <NUM> may couple to the bicycle <NUM> via a rear mounting rack <NUM>, as shown in <FIG> (depicting the bicycle adapter <NUM> coupled to the rear mounting rack <NUM>), and <FIG> (depicting the seat <NUM> coupled to the bicycle adapter <NUM>). The rear mounting rack <NUM> may include a connector bar <NUM> and a base frame <NUM>. The connector bar <NUM> may be secured to the bicycle <NUM>, for example but not limited to at a crossbar, a seat tube, or at a seat post <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>). The rear mounting rack <NUM>, for example but not limited to the base frame <NUM>, may be sized and shaped to slide into, clip into, or otherwise secure to the bicycle adapter <NUM>. In such an aspect, the bicycle mounting components may include may include mechanical fasteners, including for example bolts, washers, nuts, etc..

As shown in <FIG>, the bicycle adapter <NUM> may also couple to a seat that may be an infant seat <NUM>, for example an infant car seat or bucket seat. The infant seat <NUM> may include mounting components 1407a, 1047b (only 1047b mounting component is visible in <FIG>) that may releasably couple to the seat mounting components 1408a, 1408b of the bicycle adapter <NUM> for coupling the infant seat <NUM> to the bicycle adapter <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. In some aspects, the infant seat <NUM> could also be mounted to the bicycle adapter <NUM> in any number of other configurations.

<FIG> depicts a bicycle adapter <NUM> according to aspects of the present disclosure coupled to a bicycle <NUM>. The bicycle adapter <NUM> may be coupled to a rear region <NUM> of the bicycle <NUM> behind the bike seat via one or more bicycle mounting components <NUM> (not visible in <FIG>) may include screws, ties, or other suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force, as described above with respect to the bicycle adapter <NUM>. One or more of the bicycle mounting components <NUM> may be positioned on, an underside of a base <NUM> of the bicycle adapter <NUM>.

The bicycle adapter <NUM> may also include arms 1454a, 1454b, hub assemblies 1456a, 1456b, seat mounting components 1458a, 1458b, and foot guards 1460a, 1460b. The arms 1454a, 1454b may extend upwards from the base <NUM>. The respective hub assemblies 1456a, 1456b may be positioned on the respective arms 1454a, 1454b. The seat mounting components 1458a, 1458b may in some aspects extend from or be coupled directly or indirectly to the respective hub assemblies 1456a, 1456b. The seat mounting components 1458a, 1458b may include snap fit features, though in some aspects other suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force may be used. The seat mounting components 1458a, 1458b may mate with the mounting components 1054a, 1054b of the seat <NUM> such that the seat <NUM> may be easily and quickly be coupled to the bicycle adapter <NUM> and thereby to the bicycle <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. The seat <NUM> may also be easily and quickly uncoupled from the bicycle adapter <NUM> by actuating one or more actuators on the seat <NUM>, for example actuators 1055a, 1055b. Thus, the seat <NUM> may be coupled to and decoupled from the bicycle adapter <NUM> without the use of tools (e.g. screw driver, drill, wrench) and instead may essentially clip into and clip out of the bicycle adapter <NUM> for providing a safe seating area for a child on the bicycle <NUM>. In some aspects, one or more actuators that may actuate to uncouple the seat <NUM> from the bicycle adapter <NUM> may be positioned on the bicycle adapter <NUM>, for example but not limited on the hub assemblies 1456a, 1456b. The seat <NUM> may couple to the bicycle adapter <NUM> via other suitable means without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Thus, the seat <NUM> may be coupled to the bicycle adapter <NUM> to mount the seat <NUM> to the bicycle <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>) and may also be coupled to other assemblies, for example the stroller <NUM> (see e.g. <FIG>). In some aspects, the seat <NUM> may couple to the bicycle adapter <NUM> and the stroller <NUM> via the same mounting components (e.g. mounting components 1054a, 1054b), while in other aspects the seat <NUM> may couple to the bicycle adapter <NUM> via different mounting components.

The foot guards 1460a, 1460b may comprise the same features as the foot guards 1410a, 1410b of the bicycle adapter <NUM>. The bicycle adapter <NUM> and the seat <NUM> may be designed such that when the seat <NUM> is coupled to the bicycle adapter <NUM> on the bicycle <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>), the assembly together complies with various safety standards including for example the safety standards identified in Table <NUM>. In addition, as shown in <FIG>, the bicycle adapter <NUM> may also be coupleable to a container <NUM> that may receive and retain accessories or items when a seat is not coupled to the bicycle adapter <NUM>. For example, a bag, box, or other item may be positioned within the container <NUM> for transporting the items. The container <NUM> may include mounting components (not visible in <FIG>) that couple to the seat mounting components 1458a, 1458b of the bicycle adapter <NUM>. The container <NUM> may couple to the bicycle adapter <NUM> via snap fit engagement or any suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force In other aspects, for example as shown in <FIG>, a container <NUM> may be secured to the bicycle adapter <NUM> via straps <NUM> or other features. In some aspects, as shown in <FIG>, the straps <NUM> may couple to the bicycle adapter <NUM>, for example via the seat mounting components 1458a, 1458b of the bicycle adapter <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a bicycle adapter <NUM> according to aspects of the present invention. The bicycle adapter <NUM> comprises a frame <NUM>, a base <NUM>, foot guards <NUM>, and foot housings <NUM>. The bicycle adapter <NUM> may be secured to the bicycle <NUM> via bicycle mounting components on the bicycle adapter <NUM>. In some aspects the bicycle mounting components may be positioned on an underside of the base <NUM> of the bicycle adapter <NUM>. The frame <NUM> may comprise multiple frame members or rods <NUM> which provide surfaces that may engage with corresponding surface on a seat, for example seat <NUM>, to securely couple the seat <NUM> to the bicycle adapter <NUM>. In some aspects, the seat <NUM> may sit within a space defined by the frame <NUM> of the bicycle adapter <NUM> and may be held in frictional engagement with the frame <NUM>. In some aspects, one or more surfaces of the seat <NUM> may be sized and shaped to receive one or more frame members <NUM> of the frame <NUM> so as to secure the seat <NUM> to the bicycle adapter <NUM>. For example, the seat <NUM> may include a recess or other similar feature that receives a frame member <NUM> of the bicycle adapter <NUM>. In some aspects a latch or other additional security feature may secure the frame member <NUM> within the recess. The latch may actuate between a locked and an unlocked position for securely coupling the seat <NUM> to the bicycle adapter <NUM> and uncoupling the seat <NUM> from the bicycle adapter <NUM> for removal. In addition, as shown in <FIG>, the frame <NUM> may also define a space for receiving an accessory such as a bag or container <NUM> for transporting goods or items with the bicycle <NUM>.

<FIG> depict aspects of the present invention in which a bicycle adapter <NUM> comprises foot guards 1602a, 1602b. The bicycle adapter <NUM> may be coupled to the bicycle <NUM> via bicycle mounting components on the bicycle adapter <NUM>. In some aspects the bicycle mounting components may be positioned on an underside of a base <NUM> of the bicycle adapter <NUM>, though in some aspects the bicycle mounting components may be positioned elsewhere. A seat, for example a seat <NUM>, may include mounting components 1612a, 1612b, that may releasably coupled to a bike seat <NUM>. The mounting components 1612a, 1612b may comprise clamps designed to connect to a mounting rack on the bicycle <NUM>. In some aspects, the mounting components 1612a, 1612b may be clamps that couple to the bike seat <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. The mounting components 1612a, 1612b, may removably couple to the bike seat <NUM> via snap fit engagement or any suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force. The seat <NUM> may include one or more of the features described with respect to the seat <NUM>.

<FIG> depict aspects of the present invention in which a bicycle adapter <NUM> comprises foot guards 1702a, 1702b and a base <NUM>. The bicycle adapter <NUM> may be coupled to the bicycle <NUM> via bicycle mounting components on the bicycle adapter <NUM> that secure to a bike seat <NUM>. In some aspects the bicycle mounting components may be positioned on an underside of the base <NUM> of the bicycle adapter <NUM>, though in some aspects the bicycle mounting components may be positioned elsewhere. A seat, for example a seat <NUM>, may include one or more mounting components 1712A, 1712b, that may releasably coupled to the bike seat <NUM>. The base <NUM> of the bicycle adapter <NUM> may be sized and shaped to fit within rails <NUM> of the seat <NUM> for releasably coupling the seat <NUM> to the bicycle adapter <NUM>. In some aspects, the seat <NUM> may also include one or more mounting components that may releasably couple to the base <NUM> of the bicycle adapter <NUM> for aiding in securing the seat <NUM> to the bicycle adapter <NUM>. The one or more mounting components may couple to the base <NUM> via snap fit engagement or any suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force. <FIG> depicts the seat <NUM> coupled to the bicycle <NUM> via the bicycle adapter <NUM>. The seat <NUM> may include one or more of the features of the seat <NUM> in addition to the features described herein.

<FIG> depict aspects of the present invention in which a bicycle adapter <NUM> comprises foot guards 1802a, 1802b a base <NUM>, and a frame <NUM>. The bicycle adapter <NUM> may be coupled to the bicycle <NUM> via bicycle mounting components on the bicycle adapter <NUM> that secure to a bike seat <NUM>. In some aspects the bicycle mounting components may be positioned on an underside of the base <NUM> of the bicycle adapter <NUM>, though in some aspects the bicycle mounting components may be positioned elsewhere. A seat, for example a seat <NUM>, may include mounting components 1810a, 1810b, that may releasably coupled to the frame <NUM> of the bicycle adapter <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the mounting components 1810a, 1810b may comprise projections that are sized and shaped to couple to a rod <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. For example, the mounting components 1810a, 1810b may be curved such that they snap fit onto the rod <NUM> of the frame <NUM> to releasably secure the seat <NUM> to the bicycle adapter <NUM>. In other aspects of the present disclosure the seat <NUM> may include different or additional mounting components that may couple to the bicycle adapter <NUM> via snap fit engagement or any suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force. The seat <NUM> may include one or more of the features of the seat <NUM> in addition to the features described herein.

In still yet another aspect of the present invention, as shown in <FIG>, a bicycle adapter <NUM> comprises foot guards 1902a, 1902b a base <NUM>, a frame <NUM>, and straps <NUM>. The bicycle adapter <NUM> may be coupled to the bicycle <NUM> via bicycle mounting components on the bicycle adapter <NUM> that secure to a bike seat <NUM>. In some aspects the bicycle mounting components may be positioned on an underside of the base <NUM> of the bicycle adapter <NUM>, though in some aspects the bicycle mounting components may be positioned elsewhere. The straps <NUM> may be used to couple a, for example, seat <NUM> to the bicycle adapter <NUM>, for example by passing the straps <NUM> through openings in a frame <NUM>, a calf support <NUM>, and/or a seat pan <NUM> of the seat <NUM>. In some aspects, the straps <NUM> may pass through alternate areas or features of the seat <NUM>. The frame <NUM> of the bicycle adapter <NUM> may also support and secure the seat <NUM> in place, as shown in <FIG>. In other aspects of the present disclosure the seat <NUM> may include different or additional mounting components that may couple to the bicycle adapter <NUM> via snap fit engagement or any suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force. The seat <NUM> may include one or more of the features of the seat <NUM> in addition to the features described herein.

<FIG> depict an embodiment in which the bicycle adapter <NUM> comprises a locking ring or plate <NUM> that engages with a mating surface <NUM> on a bottom region of a seat <NUM>. The seat <NUM> may include additional features as described with respect to seat <NUM>. The locking ring <NUM> may engage with the mating surface <NUM> of the seat <NUM> to removably couple the seat <NUM> to the bicycle adapter <NUM>. The bicycle adapter <NUM> may be coupled to the bicycle <NUM> in the same manner as described above with respect to <FIG>. The seat <NUM> may include one or more of the features of the seat <NUM> in addition to the features described herein.

<FIG> depicts a bicycle adapter <NUM> according to an aspect of the present invention. The bicycle adapter <NUM> may couple to a mounting rack <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the mounting rack <NUM> may be coupled to a front region <NUM> of the bicycle <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG> the mounting rack <NUM> may include a frame <NUM> that extends around a head tube or frame member <NUM> of the bicycle <NUM>. The mounting rack <NUM> may also couple to a crossbar <NUM> of the bicycle <NUM>. In some aspects, the bicycle adapter <NUM> may couple to the bicycle <NUM> with different clamping or affixing assemblies or systems. The bicycle adapter <NUM> may be coupled to the bicycle <NUM> via bicycle mounting components on the bicycle adapter <NUM> that secure to the mounting rack <NUM>. The bicycle adapter <NUM> comprises foot guards 2108a, 2108b, a base <NUM>, a frame <NUM>, and mounting components 2114a, 2114b. In some aspects the bicycle mounting components may be positioned on an underside of the base <NUM> of the bicycle adapter <NUM>, though in some aspects the bicycle mounting components may be positioned elsewhere. As shown in <FIG>, a seat, for example the mounting components 1054a, 1054b of the seat <NUM> may couple to the mounting components 2114a, 2114b of the bicycle adapter <NUM>. The mounting components 2114a, 2114b and 1054a, 1054b may couple together via snap fit engagement or any suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force, such that the seat <NUM> may easily be coupled to and removed from the bicycle adapter <NUM>. As described above with respect to <FIG> the seat <NUM> may include actuators 1055a, 1055b that may independently or when activated together decouple or unlock the seat <NUM> from the bicycle adapter <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a bicycle adapter <NUM> according to an aspect of the present invention. As shown in <FIG>, the bicycle adapter <NUM> may be coupled to a front region <NUM> of the bicycle <NUM>. The bicycle adapter <NUM> may couple to the bicycle <NUM>, for example by coupling to the crossbar <NUM> of the bicycle <NUM>. The bicycle adapter <NUM> may be coupled to the bicycle <NUM> via bicycle mounting components on the bicycle adapter <NUM> that secure to the bicycle. The bicycle adapter <NUM> comprises foot guards 2208a,, 2208b, a base <NUM>, a frame <NUM>, and mounting components 2214a, 2214b. In some aspects the bicycle mounting components may be positioned on an underside of the base <NUM> of the bicycle adapter <NUM>, though in some aspects the bicycle mounting components may be positioned elsewhere. As shown in <FIG>, a seat, for example seat <NUM> may couple to the mounting components 2214a, 2214b of the bicycle adapter <NUM>. The mounting components 2214a, 2214b may couple together with mounting components on the seat <NUM> via snap fit engagement or any suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force, such that the seat <NUM> may easily be coupled to and removed from the bicycle adapter <NUM>. The bicycle adapter <NUM> may couple to the bicycle <NUM> in the same manner as described above. The seat <NUM> may include the same features of the seat <NUM>, for example, the seat <NUM> may include actuators 1055a, 1055b that may independently or when activated together decouple or unlock the seat <NUM> from the bicycle adapter <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, in some aspects a seat, for example seat <NUM>, may be rotate relative to a bicycle adapter, for example bicycle adapter <NUM>, such that the seat <NUM> may recline relative to the bicycle adapter <NUM> (i.e. be positioned in at least one reclined position). In some aspects, the seat <NUM> may be positionable in multiple varying reclined positions. <FIG> depict the seat <NUM> pivoting about a pivot point <NUM> positioned in a front region <NUM> of the seat <NUM>. The seat <NUM> may rotate between an upright or initial position to a reclined position about the pivot point <NUM>. The seat <NUM> may include the same features as the various seats described herein, including seats <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> described above. Similarly, the bicycle adapter <NUM> may include the same features and be coupled to the bicycle <NUM> the same way as the various bicycle adapters described herein, including bicycle adapters <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, described above. The seat <NUM> may couple to the bicycle adapter <NUM> in the same ways as the various seats and adapters described above.

As shown in <FIG> a seat <NUM> may be rotate relative to a bicycle adapter <NUM> such that the seat <NUM> may recline relative to the bicycle adapter <NUM> (i.e. be positioned in at least one reclined position). In some aspects, the seat <NUM> may be positionable in multiple varying reclined positions. <FIG> depict the seat <NUM> pivoting about a pivot point <NUM> positioned in a mid-region <NUM> of the seat <NUM>. For example the seat <NUM> may pivot about a hub assemblies <NUM> of the seat <NUM>. The seat <NUM> may rotate between an upright or initial position to a reclined position about the pivot point <NUM>. The seat <NUM> may include the same features as the various seats described herein, including seats <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, described above. Similarly, the bicycle adapter <NUM> may include the same features and be coupled to the bicycle <NUM> the same way as the various bicycle adapters described herein, including bicycle adapters <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> described above. The seat <NUM> may couple to the bicycle adapter <NUM> in the same ways as the various seats and adapters described above.

As shown in <FIG> a seat <NUM> may be rotate relative to a bicycle adapter <NUM> such that the seat <NUM> may recline relative to the bicycle adapter <NUM> (i.e. be positioned in at least one reclined position). In some aspects, the seat <NUM> may be positionable in multiple varying reclined positions. <FIG> depict the seat <NUM> pivoting about a pivot point <NUM> positioned in a rear-region <NUM> of the seat <NUM>. The seat <NUM> may rotate between an upright or initial position to a reclined position about the pivot point <NUM>. The seat <NUM> may include the same features as the various seats described herein, including seats <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, described above. Similarly, the bicycle adapter <NUM> may include the same features and be coupled to the bicycle <NUM> the same way as the various bicycle adapters described herein, including bicycle adapters <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, described above. The seat <NUM> may couple to the bicycle adapter <NUM> in the same ways as the various seats and adapters described above.

As shown in <FIG> a seat <NUM> may recline by rotating a back support <NUM> of the seat <NUM> in a backwards direction from an upright position to a reclined position. In such an example, the back support <NUM> may rotate relative to a seat pan <NUM> so provide for the reclined position. Thus, the seat <NUM> may have an upright position and one or more reclined positions while coupled to a bicycle adapter <NUM> The seat <NUM> may include the same features as the various seats described herein, including seats <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> described above. Similarly, the bicycle adapter <NUM> may include the same features and be coupled to the bicycle <NUM> the same way as the various bicycle adapters described herein, including bicycle adapters <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> described above. The seat <NUM> may couple to the bicycle adapter <NUM> in the same ways as the various seats and adapters described above.

<FIG> depicts a seat, for example seat <NUM>, coupled to a wagon <NUM>. The wagon <NUM> may include one or more walls <NUM> that define a container <NUM> that may receive children or items. The seat <NUM> may couple to the wagon <NUM> via the mounting components 1054a, 1054b. The mounting components 1054a, 1054c may couple to receiving components (not visible in <FIG>) via snap fit engagement or any suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force. In some aspects of the present disclosure the receiving components may be positioned on an adapter that may be coupled to the wagon <NUM>. For example, the seat <NUM> may couple to an adapter that couples to the wagon <NUM> as described in<CIT>, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. For example, the adapter may be coupled to the wagon <NUM> via clamping, clipping, or any other suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force.

<FIG> depict the seat <NUM> coupled to the wagon <NUM> in various positions. For example, <FIG> depicts the seat <NUM> in an upright position in which the seat <NUM> is positioned generally upright. <FIG> depicts the seat <NUM> in a first reclined position in which the seat <NUM> reclines in a rearward direction. <FIG> depicts the seat <NUM> in a second position in which the seat <NUM> is reclined further in the rearward direction. The seat <NUM> may recline via the mounting components 1054a, 1054b, via the hub assemblies <NUM>, or via other suitable assemblies or features of the seat <NUM> and/or the wagon <NUM>. In some aspects, the seat <NUM> may recline by the back support <NUM> reclining relative to the seat pan <NUM>. The seat <NUM> may be moved between the upright and the one or more reclined positions by actuating the actuator <NUM> of the hub assembly <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> may thereby actuate between a locked and an unlocked position for controlling the recline of the back support <NUM> relative to the seat pan <NUM>. In some aspects, the actuator <NUM> may also lock or unlock the seat <NUM> from the wagon <NUM> for removal of the seat <NUM> from the wagon <NUM>. In some aspects, a different actuator may control the locking or securing of the seat <NUM> to the wagon <NUM> and the position of the seat <NUM> (i.e. move the seat <NUM> between the upright and the one or more reclined positions). For example, the actuators 1055a, 1055b may be actuated to unlock the mounting components 1054a, 1054b from the receiving components 2706a, 2706b of the wagon <NUM> to unlock the seat <NUM> from the wagon <NUM>. In still yet other aspects, one or more additional actuators on either the wagon <NUM> or the seat <NUM> may actuate between a locked and an unlocked position to control coupling between the mounting components 1054a, 1054b and the receiving components 2706a, 2706b.

A seat according to aspects of the present invention, for example seat <NUM>, may be convertible to a booster seat for use on a dining chair for feeding an infant or child. <FIG> depict an aspect of the present disclosure in which the seat <NUM> includes one or more compartments <NUM> which may house harness elements <NUM> for securing the seat <NUM> to a dining chair <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. The compartments <NUM> may include covers <NUM> that may retain the harness elements <NUM> within the compartments <NUM> when the seat <NUM> is not in use as a booster seat, as shown in <FIG>. Though <FIG> depict two compartments <NUM>, in some aspects a single compartment may be used, for example as shown in <FIG>. When the seat <NUM> is to be converted for use as a booster seat, the harness elements <NUM> may be extended out of the compartments <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. The harness elements <NUM> may be permanently coupled to the seat <NUM> within the compartments <NUM> or may be removably coupled to the seat <NUM>, for example via snap fit engagement or any suitable fastening or securing means. In some aspects, the harness elements <NUM> may be made of a washable material (i.e. nylon, cotton, polyester, etc.) or a wipeable material (i.e. a plastic, rubber, or otherwise wipeable material).

As shown in <FIG>, the seat <NUM> may secure to the dining chair <NUM> in any suitable means using the harness elements <NUM>, including but not limited to by securing a pair of harness elements <NUM> together around the seat base <NUM> of the dining chair <NUM> and securing another pair of harness elements <NUM> together around a seat back <NUM> of the dining chair <NUM>. The harness elements <NUM> may include mating components that may mate via snap fit engagement or any other suitable fastening or securing means. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the harness elements <NUM> may include a side release buckle having a frame member <NUM> or a prong member <NUM> that snap fit or couple together to secure pairs of the harness elements <NUM> together about the dining chair <NUM>.

<FIG> depict an aspect of the present invention in which the seat <NUM> includes harness elements <NUM> which may removably couple to the seat <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the harness elements <NUM> may include coupling elements <NUM> that may removably couple to receiving components <NUM> on the seat <NUM>. <FIG> depict the coupling elements <NUM> as hook or clip elements and the receiving components <NUM> as openings or recesses that the hook or clip elements may couple to. When not in use as a booster seat, the harness elements <NUM> may be stored separate from the seat <NUM>. The harness elements <NUM> may also be washed or cleaned when decoupled from the seat <NUM>. <FIG> depicts the harness elements <NUM> coupled to the seat <NUM>. The seat <NUM> may be secured to a dining chair via the harness elements <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. In some aspects, the harness elements <NUM> may be separate elements or may be a single unitary assembly. In some aspects, the harness elements <NUM> may removably or permanently connect to the seat <NUM> in one or more locations.

Aspects of the present invention include a seat, for example seat <NUM>, that may be removably coupled (indirectly or directly) to various assemblies or convertible to various uses. As shown in <FIG>, according to aspects of the present disclosure, the seat <NUM> may be coupled to a chair assembly <NUM> for converting the seat <NUM> to a camping seat or outdoor chair. The chair assembly <NUM> may include legs <NUM>, a base <NUM>, and coupling components 2906a, 2906b. The base <NUM> may provide lateral stability when the seat <NUM> is coupled to the chair assembly <NUM>. The coupling components 2906a, 2906b may be sized and shaped to couple with mounting components 1054a, 1054b of the seat <NUM>. The mounting components 1054a, 1054b may couple to coupling components 2906a, 2906b via snap fit engagement or any suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force. The seat <NUM> coupled to the chair assembly <NUM> for converting to an outdoor chair is shown in <FIG> (shown with the canopy <NUM> coupled to the seat <NUM>). The seat <NUM> may be decoupled from the chair assembly <NUM> by actuating an actuator from a locked to an unlocked position, for example the actuators 1055a, 1055b. In some aspects, a different actuator, for example but not limited to the actuator <NUM> or the release button <NUM>. In some aspects one or additional actuators positioned on either the seat <NUM> or the chair assembly <NUM> may be actuated to unlock the mounting components 1054a, 1054b from the coupling components 2906a, 2906b of the chair assembly <NUM> to unlock the seat <NUM> from the chair assembly <NUM>.

The seat <NUM> may rotate or recline when coupled to the chair assembly <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. For example, <FIG> depicts the seat <NUM> in an upright position in which the seat <NUM> is positioned generally upright. <FIG> depicts the seat <NUM> in a first reclined position in which the seat <NUM> reclines in a rearward direction. <FIG> depicts the seat <NUM> in a second reclined position in which the seat <NUM> is reclined further in the rearward direction. The seat <NUM> may recline via the mounting components 1054a, 1054b, via the hub assemblies <NUM>, or via other suitable assemblies or features of the seat <NUM> and/or chair assembly <NUM>. The seat <NUM> may be moved between the upright and the one or more reclined positions by actuating the actuator <NUM> of the hub assembly <NUM> and applying a force to the seat <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> may thereby lock or unlock the seat <NUM> for reclining purpose. In some aspects, the actuator <NUM> may also lock or unlock the seat <NUM> from the chair assembly <NUM> for removal of the seat <NUM> from the chair assembly <NUM>. In some aspects, a different actuator may control the locking or securing of the seat <NUM> to the chair assembly <NUM> and the position of the seat <NUM> (i.e. move the seat <NUM> between the upright and the one or more reclined positions). For example, the actuators 1055a, 1055b may be actuated to unlock the mounting components 1054a, 1054b from the coupling components 2906a, 2906b of the chair assembly <NUM> to unlock the seat <NUM> from the chair assembly <NUM>. In still yet other aspects, one or more additional actuators on either the chair assembly <NUM> or the seat <NUM> may decouple or unlock the mounting components 1054a, 1054b from the coupling components 2906a, 2906b. As shown in <FIG>, the chair assembly <NUM> may be folded into a storage position and may be stored in a storage bag <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, according to aspects of the present invention, a seat, for example the seat <NUM>, may be coupled to a chair assembly <NUM> for converting the seat <NUM> to a camping seat or outdoor chair. The chair assembly <NUM> may include legs <NUM> and coupling components (not visible in <FIG>). In some aspects, the coupling components or other features of the chair assembly <NUM> may be sized and shaped to couple with mounting components 1054a, 1054b of the seat <NUM>. In some aspects, as shown in <FIG>, the coupling components of the chair assembly <NUM> may be tubes that may couple to slots or other openings on the seat <NUM> sized to receive the coupling components The seat <NUM> may couple to coupling components of the chair assembly <NUM> via snap fit engagement or any suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force.

In some aspects, the seat <NUM> may rotate or recline when coupled to the chair assembly <NUM>. For example, the seat <NUM> may rotate between an upright position in which the seat <NUM> is positioned generally upright and one or more reclined positions in which the seat <NUM> reclines in a rearward direction. The seat <NUM> may recline via the mounting components 1054a, 1054b, via the hub assemblies <NUM>, or via other suitable assemblies or features of the seat <NUM> and/or chair assembly <NUM>. The seat <NUM> may be moved between the upright and the one or more reclined positions by actuating the actuator <NUM> of the hub assembly <NUM> and applying a force to the seat <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> may thereby lock or unlock the seat <NUM> for reclining purpose. In some aspects, the actuator <NUM> may also lock or unlock the seat <NUM> from the chair assembly <NUM> for removal of the seat <NUM> from the chair assembly <NUM>. In some aspects, a different actuator may control the locking or securing of the seat <NUM> to the chair assembly <NUM> and the position of the seat <NUM> (i.e. move the seat <NUM> between the upright and the one or more reclined positions). For example, the actuators 1055a, 1055b may be actuated to unlock the mounting components 1054a, 1054b from the coupling components 3004a, 3004b of the chair assembly <NUM> to unlock the seat <NUM> from the chair assembly <NUM>. In still yet other aspects, one or more additional actuators on either the chair assembly <NUM> or the seat <NUM> may decouple or unlock the mounting components 1054a, 1054b from the coupling components 3000a, 3000b.

As shown in <FIG>, the legs <NUM> may be extendable between one or more lengths for altering a height at which the seat <NUM> sits when coupled to the chair assembly <NUM>. In some aspects, the legs <NUM> may telescopically extend and retract to change the length of the legs <NUM>. In other aspects the legs <NUM> may be removable from the chair assembly <NUM> and different legs having a different length may be coupled to the chair assembly <NUM>. In still yet other aspects another chair assembly may have legs of a different length. In aspects in which the legs <NUM> of the chair assembly <NUM> are a sufficient length the seat <NUM> when coupled to the chair assembly <NUM> may act as a high chair for feeding an infant or child.

As shown in <FIG>, according to aspects of the present invention, the seat <NUM> may be coupled to a chair assembly <NUM> for converting the seat <NUM> to a camping seat or outdoor chair. The chair assembly <NUM> may include legs <NUM>, a frame member <NUM>, and a coupling component <NUM>, shown in <FIG> as a locking ring or plate that mechanically connects or couples to a corresponding locking ring or plate <NUM> on the seat <NUM>. The coupling component <NUM> in some aspects may be another generally centered mechanical attachment. In some aspects, the seat <NUM> may couple to the chair assembly <NUM> may couple to together via snap fit engagement or any suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force. The seat <NUM> may recline when coupled to the chair assembly <NUM>, for example by the back support <NUM> reclining relative to the seat pan <NUM>. The seat <NUM> may couple to the chair assembly <NUM> in the same way as described with respect to chair assemblies <NUM> and <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, according to aspects of the present invention, the seat <NUM> may be coupled to a chair assembly <NUM> for converting the seat <NUM> to a camping seat or outdoor chair. The chair assembly <NUM> may include legs <NUM>, a frame member <NUM>, and coupling components <NUM>. As shown in <FIG> the coupling components <NUM> may be projections or rods that may be sized and shaped to fit within housings <NUM> on the seat <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>). In some aspects, a chair assembly may include a rocking chair assembly or glider chair assembly that may couple to a seat (e.g. seat <NUM>) for rocking or gliding of the seat. In some aspects, the coupling components <NUM> may couple to the housings <NUM> via snap fit engagement or any suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force.

Aspects of the present invention include a seat, for example seat <NUM>, that may be removably coupled (indirectly or directly) to various assemblies or convertible to various uses. As shown in <FIG>, according to aspects of the present disclosure, the seat <NUM> may include coupling elements <NUM> which may be sized and shaped to receive an edge <NUM> of a seat <NUM> of a picnic table <NUM> (see <FIG>). As shown in <FIG> the coupling elements may include a vertical projection <NUM> and a horizontal projection <NUM> that are sized and shaped to receive the edge <NUM> of the seat <NUM>. The coupling elements <NUM> may be coupled to the bottom surface <NUM> of the seat pan <NUM> or may be a portion of the calf support <NUM> that may extend from the calf support <NUM>. In some aspects, a seat, including but not limited to seat <NUM> may also include an attachment feature in a rear region of the seat for coupling to a picnic table or stadium seat for preventing the seat from falling forward and decoupling from the picnic table or stadium seat. The attachment feature may be a coupling element similar to coupling elements <NUM>, it may be a strap, or other suitable feature for retaining the seat in place if a child leans forward in the seat while coupled to the picnic table or stadium seat.

Aspects of the present invention include a seat, for example seat <NUM>, that may be removably coupled (indirectly or directly) to various assemblies or convertible to various uses. As shown in <FIG>, according to aspects of the present disclosure, the seat <NUM> may couple to a pack assembly <NUM> to convert the seat <NUM> to a hiking pack for carrying an infant or child. The pack assembly <NUM> may include straps <NUM> and lumbar support <NUM>. The seat <NUM> may be coupled to the pack assembly <NUM> via straps <NUM>. The straps <NUM> may couple at one end to the pack assembly <NUM> via fasteners 3408a and at an opposite end to the seat <NUM> via fasteners 3408b. The fasteners 3408a may couple to loops 3410a on the straps <NUM>. The fasteners 3408b may couple to loops 3410b on the seat <NUM>. Additional straps <NUM> may further couple to adjustment straps <NUM> of the seat <NUM>. The additional straps <NUM> may be coupled to a bottom surface <NUM> of the seat <NUM> or to the calf support <NUM> of the seat <NUM>, though in still yet other aspects, the additional straps <NUM> may couple elsewhere to the seat <NUM>. While <FIG> depict the straps <NUM> coupling between the pack assembly <NUM> and the seat <NUM> via a fastener and loop engagement, in other aspects the straps <NUM> may couple between the seat and the pack assembly <NUM> via snap fit engagement or any suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force. <FIG> depict the hiking pack comprising the seat <NUM> and the pack assembly <NUM> on a user from a front perspective view (<FIG>) and from a rear perspective view (<FIG>).

Aspects of the present invention include a seat, for example seat <NUM>, that may be removably coupled (indirectly or directly) to various assemblies or convertible to various uses. As shown in <FIG> (exploded view) and <FIG> (assembly view), according to aspects of the present disclosure, the seat <NUM> may couple to a carrier assembly <NUM> to convert the seat <NUM> to an infant carrier or front carrier for an infant. The carrier assembly <NUM> may include a cover <NUM> and harness assembly <NUM>. The cover <NUM> may comprise a fabric material or other soft material for the comfort of the infant and/or the person wearing the front carrier. In some aspects, the cover <NUM> may also be the seat cover <NUM>. The cover <NUM> may slide over or otherwise cover at least a portion of the seat <NUM>, for example as described with respect to the seat cover <NUM>. The cover <NUM> may also couple to the seat <NUM> via at least one snap fit coupling system or any suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force. The harness assembly <NUM> may provide for straps <NUM> through which a user may position their arms to wear the infant carrier. The harness assembly <NUM> may also include a strap <NUM> that may extend around a user's back when they wear the infant carrier. While <FIG> illustrates a single strap <NUM>, the seat <NUM> may include more than one strap <NUM>. The harness assembly <NUM> may couple to the cover <NUM> via clips <NUM> that couple to loops <NUM> on the cover <NUM>, though other suitable means for coupling the harness assembly <NUM> to the cover <NUM> may be used. For example, in some aspects, the harness assembly <NUM> may be coupled to the cover <NUM> by suitable fastening or securing means that apply mechanical, electromechanical, piezoelectric, vacuum, magnetic, and/or friction force.

Aspects of the present invention include a seat, for example seat <NUM>, that may be removably coupled (indirectly or directly) to various assemblies or convertible to various uses. As shown in <FIG>, according to aspects of the present disclosure, the seat <NUM> may be used as a car seat. The seat <NUM> may include a pass through regions <NUM> that a seat belt <NUM> may pass through for securing the seat <NUM> in place in the car via the seat belt <NUM>. In some aspects, as shown in <FIG>, the pass through regions <NUM> may extend between the back support <NUM> and the seat pan <NUM>. For example, the seat belt <NUM> may pass around the rear frame member <NUM> (not visible in <FIG> due to obstruction of the seat belt <NUM>) for securing the seat <NUM> in place via the seat belt <NUM>. The seat <NUM> may comply with safety standards required of car seats, for example the safety standards set forth in Table <NUM>. As shown in <FIG> the seat belt <NUM> may secure the seat <NUM> in place while the harness apparatus <NUM> may secure the child within the seat <NUM> as a five point harness. The seat <NUM> may comply with safety standards of harness booster or toddler car seats, for example the safety standards set forth in Table <NUM>.

Similarly, aspects of the present invention include a seat, for example seat <NUM> that may be used a belt positioning booster car seat. As shown in <FIG>, the seat <NUM> may include one or more shoulder belt guides <NUM> for guiding the positioning of a vehicle shoulder belt <NUM> of a seat belt <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) in the proper position for a child sitting in the seat <NUM>. The seat <NUM> may also include pass through regions <NUM> through which a lap belt portion <NUM> of the seat belt <NUM> may pass for securing the seat <NUM> in place via the seat belt <NUM>. In use, the seat <NUM> may not require the harness apparatus <NUM> to secure the child safely to the seat <NUM> when the child is a sufficient height. <FIG> depicts the vehicle seat belt <NUM> securing the seat <NUM> in place as a booster seat. The seat may comply with safety standards of booster car seats, for example the safety standards set forth in Table <NUM>.

Aspects of the present invention include a seat, for example seat <NUM>, that may be converted to an airplane seat <NUM> for use on an airplane using an airplane harness <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. When the seat <NUM> is installed using the airplane harness <NUM>, the system together may comply with FAA regulations for a child seat for use on an airplane. The airplane harness <NUM> may include a seat back harness <NUM> and a harness assembly <NUM> that includes straps 3808a, 3808b and a clip <NUM>. While <FIG> illustrate two straps 3808a, 2808b, in some aspects, the seat <NUM> may include more or fewer straps. Similarly, the seat <NUM> may include multiple clips <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the seat back harness <NUM> may be positioned around the seat back <NUM> of the airplane seat <NUM>. The harness assembly <NUM> may be coupled to the seat back harness <NUM> via loops, straps, or other features. The straps 3808a, 3808b of the harness assembly <NUM> may extend downwards in front of the back support <NUM> and may lay across the chest of a child sitting within the seat <NUM>. A bottom region <NUM> of each of the straps 3808a, 3808b may include a coupling feature, for example loops 3816a, 3816b that may be sized and shaped to receive a seat belt <NUM> of the airplane. The seat <NUM> when coupled to the airplane harness <NUM> may comply with airline safety standards, for example the safety standards set forth in Table <NUM>. In some aspects, the seat belt <NUM> of the airplane may be used to secure the seat <NUM> to the airplane seat <NUM>, for example the seat belt <NUM> may extend through openings in the seat <NUM> to secure the seat <NUM> in place (including but not limited by extending around a rear frame member of the seat, for example rear frame member <NUM>).

Claim 1:
A system comprising:
a stroller assembly (<NUM>) comprising a coupling component;
an additional assembly comprising at least one of a chair assembly (<NUM>), a wagon assembly (<NUM>), a wagon adapter assembly, a bicycle (<NUM>), or a bicycle adapter assembly (<NUM>), wherein the additional assembly comprises a coupling component (2906a, 2906b)); and
a seat (<NUM>) further comprising:
a seat pan (<NUM>) including a frame member (<NUM>);
a back rest (<NUM>);
a calf support (<NUM>) that is positionable between a use position and a storage position, wherein the calf support rotates between the use and the storage position, and wherein in the storage position a rear surface of the calf support is positioned adjacent to a bottom surface (<NUM>) of the seat pan;
a mounting component (<NUM>) configured to removably couple to the coupling component (<NUM>) of the stroller assembly (<NUM>), the mounting component (<NUM>) also configured to removably couple to coupling component (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) of the additional assembly; and
an actuator (<NUM>) that actuates the mounting component (<NUM>) between a locked and an unlocked position for decoupling the mounting component of the seat from the coupling component (<NUM>) of the stroller assembly (<NUM>), wherein the actuator (<NUM>) actuates the mounting component (<NUM>) between the locked and the unlocked position for decoupling the mounting component of the seat (<NUM>) from the coupling component (<NUM>) of the additional assembly.