Patent ID: 12221014

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The subject matter of embodiments is described herein with specificity to meet statutory requirements, but this description is not necessarily intended to limit the scope of the claims. The claimed subject matter may be embodied in other ways, may include different elements or steps, and may be used in conjunction with other existing or future technologies. This description should not be interpreted as implying any particular order or arrangement among or between various steps or elements except when the order of individual steps or arrangement of elements is explicitly described. Directional references such as “up,” “down,” “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “front,” and “back,” among others, are intended to refer to the orientation as illustrated and described in the figure (or figures) to which the components and directions are referencing. Throughout this disclosure, a reference numeral with a letter refers to a specific instance of an element and the reference numeral without an accompanying letter refers to the element generically or collectively. Thus, as an example (not shown in the drawings), device “12A” refers to an instance of a device class, which may be referred to collectively as devices “12” and any one of which may be referred to generically as a device “12”. In the figures and the description, like numerals are intended to represent like elements.

A child seat may be configured for installation based on the height and weight of a child and according to various guidelines and standards, such as those of the United States National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. To ensure maximum protection for an occupant of the child seat, the child seat must be secured to a fixed location in a vehicle, such as using a seat belt of the car seat or LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) attachments. When seat belts are used to secure the child seats, the seat belts are often positioned around the child seat and then engaged with a buckle attached to the car seat. However, slack in the seat belt may often occur, even when the seat belt is tightly fastened, and such slack causes the child seat to be loosely secured to the vehicle, which presents an unsafe condition for the occupant.

In view of such limitations, described herein are tensioning mechanisms for child seats that provide easy securing of the child seat using a seat belt. In certain aspects, the tensioning mechanisms described herein may allow a user to easily apply tension to a buckled seat belt during installation of the child seat, and optionally may allow for a one-handed operation of the tensioning mechanism by the user. Such improved tensioning by the tensioning mechanism may secure the child seat to the car seat in a fully secured or tensioned configuration, which may provide increased safety for an occupant of the child seat. Various other advantages and benefits may be realized with the tensioning mechanisms described herein, and the aforementioned benefits and advantages should not be considered limiting.

FIGS.1-16illustrate an example of a child seat100according to various embodiments. As illustrated inFIGS.1and2, for example, the child seat100includes a base102and a tensioning mechanism104. In the embodiment illustrated, the child seat100is an infant car seat; however, in other embodiments, the tensioning mechanism104may be provided with other types of child seats as desired, including but not limited to convertible cart seats (i.e., can be forward-facing or rear-facing), a 3-in-1 car seat, a booster seat, and/or other types of child seats as desired. Likewise, while the tensioning mechanism104is illustrated with the base102of the child seat100inFIGS.1-16, in other embodiments and depending on the type of child seat, the tensioning mechanism104may be provided at other locations as desired.

A carrier106may be releasably attached to the base102. As illustrated inFIG.1, the carrier106may include a shell108and generally defines an occupant area110for receiving an occupant, such as an infant, child, etc. The carrier106may include various feature such as padding and a dress cover112and a handle114, among other features. However, the particular carrier106illustrated inFIG.1should not be considered limiting, and in various embodiments other types of carriers may be releasably attached to the base102, including carriers that have additional and/or different features compared to those illustrated inFIG.1.

Referring toFIGS.2-4, the base102of the child seat100includes a front end116, a rear end118opposite from the front end116, a base wall120, a first sidewall122extending from the base wall120, and a second sidewall124extending from the base wall120. In various embodiments, the base wall120, the first sidewall122, and the second sidewall124together define a receiving area126of the base102that at least partially receives the carrier106and at least partially receives a seat belt of a car seat, as discussed in detail below.

As illustrated inFIG.2, for example, the base102may include various carrier engagement features154within the receiving area126for selectively engaging the carrier106. In the embodiment illustrated, the carrier engagement features154are hooks that selectively engage pins on the carrier106, although other suitable types of carrier engagement features154may be utilized as desired.

As illustrated inFIGS.2-4, for example, in certain embodiments the base102includes one or more belt guides134on the sidewalls122,124for guiding and positioning a seat belt of the car seat relative to the base102. In the embodiment illustrated, the belt guides134are provided on top edges of the sidewalls122,124, respectively, and define a guide region136that is recessed relative to the top edges of the sidewalls122,124. In certain embodiments, the guide regions136optionally extend at an oblique angle relative to a horizontal axis and a vertical axis of the base102such that the seat belt positioned within the guide regions136extends at an oblique angle relative to the horizontal axis and the vertical axis of the base102. In other embodiments, the guide regions136need not extend at oblique angles relative to the horizontal axis and/or the vertical axis of the base102. Optionally, and as best illustrated inFIGS.2,14A-B, and15A-B, one or more belt guides134may include a guide cover138that extends at least partially over the guide regions136. In such examples, and as discussed in detail below, when the seat belt is positioned within the guide regions136, the guide covers138may at least partially overlap the seat belt to further facilitate positioning of the seat belt within the guide regions136.

In certain embodiments, the base102optionally includes a load leg128extending from the front end116. In some cases, the load leg128may be pivotably attached to the base102, although it need not be in other examples. In various embodiments, the load leg128may be extendable, although in other embodiments the load leg128may have a fixed length. When included, the load leg128may selectively engage a floor of a vehicle directly in front of the car seat. Optionally, a rebound bar130may extend upwards from the top edge of the base102proximate to the rear end118or at any other location as desired. As best illustrated inFIGS.1,2, and16, in some optional embodiments, the base102may include latches132for engaging anchors or latch bars on the car seat to secure the child seat100to a car seat, either in place of or in addition to the seat belt discussed below. Stated differently, in various embodiments, the child seat100may be secured to a car seat using only a seat belt, only the latches132, or both the seat belt and the latches132. In certain embodiments, the latches132optionally may be fixed to the base102, and a latch locking mechanism109(seeFIG.9) may allow for selective extension and retraction of the latches132relative to the rear end118of the base102. In the example illustrated, the latch locking mechanism109is a depressible button that, when depressed, allows for the latches132to slide to a desired extension or retraction relative to the base102. In other embodiments, other types of latches132may be utilized as desired, and the latches132need not be rigid relative to the base102. In further embodiments, the latches132may be omitted.

Referring toFIG.3, the base102includes a cavity140within the receiving area126of the base102. As discussed in detail below, the tensioning mechanism104may be at least partially positioned within the cavity140when the tensioning mechanism104is installed with the base102. The cavity140includes a bottom cavity surface142and an end cavity surface144. In various embodiments, the bottom cavity surface142defines a bottom channel146that at least partially receives a portion of the tensioning mechanism104as discussed in detail below. In certain embodiments, the tensioning mechanism104may be pivotably connected to the base102within the bottom channel146, although it need not be within the bottom channel146in other embodiments. In various embodiments, the end cavity surface144optionally includes a locking cavity148that selectively receives a locking pin164of the tensioning mechanism104. Optionally, a locking pin guide150may also be provided on the end cavity surface144that may facilitate positioning of the locking pin164between a locked position and an unlocked position as discussed in detail below. In various embodiments, the locking pin guide150may limit inadvertent movement of the tensioning mechanism104from a first configuration to a second configuration by providing resistance to such movement below certain force thresholds. In certain embodiments, the end cavity surface144includes one or more end channels152that may receive and guide guides178of the tensioning mechanism104. In certain embodiments, the end channels152are arcuate shaped, although they need not be in other embodiments.

Referring toFIGS.4-13, in certain embodiments, the tensioning mechanism104includes at least one arm assembly156having a top arm158and a bottom arm160. In the embodiment illustrated, the tensioning mechanism104includes two arm assemblies156A-B, each of which includes a top arm158and a bottom arm160. In various embodiments, the tensioning mechanism104includes a handle162and a locking mechanism196supported by the at least one arm assembly156.

As best illustrated inFIGS.5-10, each top arm158includes a first end166, a second end168opposite the first end166, a front end170, a back end172opposite the front end170, a top side174, and a bottom side176opposite the top side174. In certain embodiments, the first end166may include a recessed portion180that may at least partially receive the handle162such that the front end170and the back end172at least partially overlap the handle162. In various embodiments, a guide178may extend outwards from the back end172of the top arm158. When the child seat100is assembled, the guide178may be positioned within a corresponding end channel152and may be moveable within the end channel152. In some embodiments, the first end166may include various features or mechanisms enabling the top arms158to be pivotably or rotatably attached to each other and/or to the handle162. In the embodiment illustrated, the first end166includes apertures for receiving pins that connect the top arms158and the handle162and enable rotation of the top arms158relative to each other. In certain aspects, the guide178within the corresponding end channel152may facilitate positioning of the tensioning mechanism between a first configuration and a second configuration as discussed in detail below. In various embodiments, at least a portion of the bottom side176optionally may have a non-linear curvature and/or be arcuate-shaped, which may facilitate positioning of the seat belt. In other embodiments, the bottom side176may have other profiles or shapes as desired.

In the embodiment illustrated, the top arm158of the arm assembly156B is a mirrored configuration of the top arm158of the arm assembly156A other than their engagement with each other. In particular, in the embodiment illustrated, the top arm158of the arm assembly156A overlaps a portion of the top arm158of the arm assembly156B; however, in other embodiments, such engagement may be reversed and/or the top arms158may be connected to each other in other configurations as desired.

With reference toFIGS.6-7, each bottom arm160includes a first end182, a second end184opposite the first end182, a front end186, a back end188opposite the front end186, a top side190, and a bottom side192opposite the top side190. In some embodiments, and as illustrated inFIG.7, for example, the bottom side192may have a non-linear curvature and/or be arcuate shaped; however, in other embodiments, the bottom side192may have other profiles as desired. In various embodiments, a length of the bottom arm160, or a distance from the first end182to the second end184, optionally is less than a length of the top arm158, which is a distance from the first end166to the second end168. The first end182of the bottom arm160is connectable to the base102, and the second end184of the bottom arm160is connectable to the corresponding top arm158. In certain embodiments, the first end182and the second end184include various suitable features or mechanisms such that the bottom arm160is pivotably attached to both the base102and the top arm158. In the embodiment ofFIGS.1-16, and as best illustrated inFIGS.6and7, the first end182and the second end184each include apertures that receive pivot pins194that pivotably attach the bottom arm160with the base102and the top arm158, respectively. In certain embodiments, the pivot pin194at the first end182is a first pivot axis of the arm assembly156, and the pivot pin194at the second end184is a second pivot axis of the arm assembly156. The first pivot axis and the second pivot axis extend parallel to each other, and as discussed in detail below, a position of the second pivot axis relative to the first pivot axis may be adjusted based on the tensioning mechanism104being in the first configuration or the second configuration.

In the embodiment illustrated, the bottom arm160of the arm assembly156B is a mirrored configuration of the bottom arm160of the arm assembly156A. In the embodiment illustrated, the bottom arms160are illustrated as having separate pivot attachments/pivot pins194at the first ends182. In some cases, separate pivot attachments may provide improved stability and strength to the tensioning mechanism104. However, in other embodiments, a single pivot pin194may be used to pivotably attach both bottom arms160to the base102.

As mentioned, the handle162may be supported by the first ends166of the top arms158, and the handle162may be gripped or otherwise used by a user to adjust the tensioning mechanism104between the first configuration and the second configuration. In some embodiments, and as best illustrated inFIGS.8-10, the locking mechanism196may be supported by the top arms158for selectively securing the tensioning mechanism104in the first configuration or the second configuration. In the embodiment illustrated, and as illustrated inFIG.9, the locking mechanism196includes a locking pin164, a biasing member198, and a button101. The locking pin164is movable between a locked configuration, in which the locking pin164extends outwards from the back ends168of the top arms158, and an unlocked configuration, in which the locking pin164is retracted within the handle162relative to the locked configuration.FIGS.8-10illustrated the locking pin164in the locked configuration. The biasing member198biases the locking pin164towards the locked configuration and may be various suitable devices or mechanisms as desired. In the embodiment illustrated, the biasing member198is a spring. The button101of the locking mechanism196may selectively move the locking pin164from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration. In the embodiment illustrated, the button101is a depressible button that, when pressed by a user, engages a sliding pin103on the locking pin164, thereby causing the locking pin164to move from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration. Other mechanisms may be used as the locking mechanism196in other embodiments.

When the tensioning mechanism104is assembled, each bottom arm160is pivotably attached to the base102and a corresponding top arm158, and the top arms158are pivotably attached to each other. In certain embodiments, the bottom arms160are pivotably attached to the base102within the bottom channel146, although in other embodiments they may be pivotably attached to the base102at other locations within the receiving area126as desired. In various embodiments, each bottom arm160is pivotably attached to the corresponding top arm158on the bottom side176of the top arm158. In certain cases, each bottom arm160may be pivotably attached to the top arm158at a location that is between the first end166and the second end168of the top arm158. In some embodiments, each bottom arm160may be pivotably attached to the top arm158at a location that is offset from the front end170of the top arm158. Such attachment of the bottom arm160to the top arm158may allow for the tensioning mechanism104to define a belt pathway while minimizing potential interference with the pivoting of the tensioning mechanism104about the first pivot axes and the second pivot axes.

Referring toFIGS.13A-B, the assembled tensioning mechanism104is adjustable between a first (or unlocked) configuration (FIG.13B) and a second (or locked) configuration (FIG.13A).

In various embodiments, the top arm158of each arm assembly156is pivotably attached to the corresponding bottom arm160such that in the first configuration, the top arm158extends at a first angle relative to the bottom arm160, and in the second configuration, the top arm158extends at a second angle relative to the bottom arm160that is less than the first angle. In certain embodiments, in the first configuration, a plane of the top arm158of the arm assembly156A extends at a non-straight angle relative to a plane of the top arm158of the arm assembly156B. In some cases, the angle between the planes of the top arms158is an oblique angle in the first configuration, although it need not be in other embodiments. Similarly, in the first configuration, a plane of the bottom arm160of the arm assembly156A extends at a non-straight angle relative to a plane of the bottom arm160of the arm assembly156B. In various embodiments, the angle between the bottom arms160in the first configuration may be an oblique angle, although it need not be in other embodiments. In the second configuration, the top arms158may optionally extends substantially parallel to each other, or at least the angle between the top arms158is closer to a straight angle compared to the first configuration. Similarly, in the second configuration, the angle between the bottom arms160is closer to a straight angle compared to the first configuration.

In some embodiments, in the first configuration, the top sides190of the bottom arms160are spaced apart from the bottom sides176of the top arms158, and in the second configuration, the top sides190of the bottom arms160optionally contact the bottom sides176of the top arms158. In certain embodiments, and as illustrated inFIGS.12and13, the first ends166of the top arms158may be spaced apart from the base102in the first configuration compared to the second configuration. In various embodiments, in the first configuration, the second pivot axis of each arm assembly156is offset outwards from the base102and relative to the first pivot axis compared to the configuration of the second pivot axis in the second configuration As illustrated inFIGS.12and13, in the first configuration, a greatest distance between the tensioning mechanism104and the base102may be greater than a distance between the tensioning mechanism104and the base102in the second configuration.

The tensioning mechanism104is assembled with the base102by pivotably attaching the bottom arms160with the base102. In certain embodiments, the bottom arms160optionally are pivotably attached to the base102within the bottom channel146of the cavity140. The guides178extending from the top arms158may be positioned within the end channels152and the guides178within the end channels152may facilitate movement of the tensioning mechanism104between the first configuration and the second configuration. In various embodiments, the tensioning mechanism104is pivotably attached to the base102such that the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis extend at oblique angles relative to the horizontal axis and the vertical axis of the base102. In some embodiments, the tensioning mechanism104is pivotably attached to the base102such that the top arms158and the bottom arms160are rotatable relative to each other and such that a relative angle between adjacent arms158,160is adjustable. Stated differently, in some cases, the tensioning mechanism104is pivotably attached to the base102such that the tensioning mechanism is angled upwards in a front to back direction of the base102. In some embodiments, the angled tensioning mechanism104and the angled pivot axes may provide an improved connection between the tensioning mechanism and a seat belt, and/or the angled tensioning mechanism104may facilitate movement of the tensioning mechanism104by a user between the first configuration and the second configuration. In other embodiments, the tensioning mechanism104need not be angled relative to the horizontal axis and/or the vertical axis.

While attached to the base102, the tensioning mechanism104is adjustable between the first configuration and the second configuration. As illustrated inFIGS.14A-Band15A-B, in both the first configuration and the second configuration, the tensioning mechanism104and the base102together define a non-linear, tortuous belt pathway105for a seat belt107. In various embodiments, the belt pathway105is defined over the sidewall122(or the sidewall124), between the second end168of one of the top arms158and the cavity140, between the bottom sides176of the top arms158and the bottom cavity surface142, between the second end168of the other one of the top arms158and the cavity140, and over the sidewall124(or the sidewall122). In various embodiments, the belt pathway105defined between the bottom sides176of the top arms158and the bottom cavity surface142is defined adjacent to the bottom sides176between the front end170and the back end172of each top arm158. In certain embodiments, the belt pathway105defined between the bottom sides176of the top arms158and the bottom cavity surface142is defined adjacent to the bottom sides176between the bottom arms160pivotably attached to the bottom side176and the front end170of each top arm158.

In certain embodiments, in the first configuration (FIGS.14A-B), an increased gap is defined between the tensioning mechanism104and the base102compared to the second configuration (FIGS.15A-B) to facilitate placement and positioning of the seat belt107along the belt pathway105. In various embodiments, the tensioning mechanism104in the first configuration may receive the seat belt107, and the tensioning mechanism104in the second configuration applies tension to the seat belt107to secure the child seat100to a car seat associated with the seat belt107and provide increased safety for the occupant of the child seat100. In some embodiments, the tortuosity of the belt pathway105in the second configuration is increased, and the second ends168of the top arms158may push the seat belt107outwards and into the sidewalls122,124compared to the belt pathway105in the first configuration.

Referring toFIGS.14A-Band15A-B, a method of installing the child seat100with the tensioning mechanism is described below. A method of uninstalling the child seat100may be performed by reversing the order of steps described below.

In various embodiments, the method includes positioning the seat belt107along the belt pathway105while the tensioning mechanism104is in the first configuration. In some embodiments, positioning the seat belt107includes positioning a lap portion of the seat belt107, a shoulder portion of the seat belt107, or both the lap portion and the shoulder portion of the seat belt107along the belt pathway105. In some embodiments, positioning the seat belt107along the belt pathway105includes positioning a portion of the seat belt107within the guide regions136of the belt guides134on the sidewalls122,124of the base102. In various embodiments, positioning the seat belt107may include positioning the seat belt107with any amount of initial tension as desired by the user.

The method includes moving the tensioning mechanism104from the first configuration to the second configuration such that the tensioning mechanism104applies tension to the seat belt107along the belt pathway105. In some embodiments, moving the tensioning mechanism104from the first configuration to the second configuration includes pressing the button101on the handle162to at least partially retract the locking pin164towards the unlocked configuration of the locking pin164and applying a downwards force on the handle162(e.g., a force towards the base102). However, in other embodiments, the button101need not be pressed and/or the locking pin164need not be retracted when the user applies the downwards force on the handle162. In various embodiments, the downwards force applied on the handle162overcomes any resistance (or force threshold) that the locking pin guide150otherwise provides to the locking pin164against inadvertent movement towards the second configuration. The method includes applying the downward force such that the bottom arms160pivot relative to the base102and the top arms158pivot relative to each other and relative to the bottom arms160. In certain embodiments, the method may include releasing the button101such that the locking pin164is biased towards the locked configuration, and applying the downward force until the locking pin164engages the locking cavity148. The locking pin164engaged with the locking cavity148may lock the tensioning mechanism104in the second configuration.

Optionally, the method may include further securing the base102to the car seat by engaging the latches132on the base102with anchors or latch bars on the car seat. In certain embodiments, engaging the latches132with the anchors or latch bars includes adjusting a length of the latches132relative to the base102by engaging the latch locking mechanisms109on the base102.

As mentioned, the child seat100with the tensioning mechanism104may provide improved tensioning to the seat belt107when installed to provide improved safety to the occupant of the child seat100. In certain embodiments, the child seat100may allow for improved installation, optionally allowing for one-handed installation by the user to move the tensioning mechanism104from the first configuration to the second configuration.

FIGS.17-25illustrate another example of a child seat1700according to various embodiments. The child seat1700is substantially similar to the child seat100and includes a base1702and a tensioning mechanism1704. The base1702is similar to the base102except that the base1702has a different shape and includes a different combination of features. The tensioning mechanism1704is substantially similar to the tensioning mechanism104except that the top arms158and bottom arms160have different shapes and profiles compared to those of the tensioning mechanism104.

As illustrated inFIGS.17,19, and21, in certain embodiments, the base1702includes a first axis1711, a second axis1713, a third axis1715, and a fourth axis1717. In certain embodiments, the first axis1711and/or the fourth axis1717are horizontal axes, and the third axis1715is a vertical axis. In certain embodiments, an axis of the handle162is parallel to, and optionally aligned with, the second axis1713. The top arms of the arm assemblies156A-B are rotatable along the axis of the handle162when the handle162is pushed or pulled parallel to the third axis1715. In these embodiments, the angle formed by both the top members of the arm assemblies156A-B is adjustable within a range defined by a minimal angle when the tensioning mechanism1704is in the first configuration and a maximal angle when the tensioning mechanism1704is in the second configuration. In some embodiments, the angle range between the minimal angle and the maximal angle is between approximately 90° and 180°, although in other embodiments the angle range may be outside of 90° to 180°, less than 90°, and/or greater than 180° as desired.

Compared to the tensioning mechanism104, the tensioning mechanism1704does not include the adjustable locking pin164as the locking mechanism196. Instead, and as illustrated inFIGS.17,18,21, and22, the locking mechanism196of the tensioning mechanism1704includes a first post1721and a second post1723extending outwards from the handle162. In this embodiment, the cavity140includes a first channel1725and a second channel1727that receive and accommodate the posts1721,1723when the tensioning mechanism104is in the second configuration.

As illustrated inFIGS.18-20, the cavity140may include outer regions1719that may receive a portion of the seat belt107when the tensioning mechanism1704is in the second configuration. In certain aspects, the outer regions1719may allow for the tensioning mechanism1704to increase the tortuosity of the seat belt107in the second configuration. In certain embodiments, and as illustrated inFIGS.19and20, the top arms158of the arm assemblies156may have an engagement portion1729(e.g., on the second ends168) with a shape that is complimentary to a shape of the outer regions1719to facilitate positioning of the seat belt107within the outer regions1719and/or to increase tortuosity in the seat belt107.

Similar to the child seat100, to use the child seat1700, a user places the base1702on a car seat, optionally centered or otherwise positioned between a paired seat belt107and a buckle. The handle162may be pulled as necessary to position the tensioning mechanism1704in the second configuration, and the seat belt107is threaded through one of the belt guides134, under the engagement portion1729of one top arm158, under the engagement portion1729of another top arm158, and through a second one of the belt guides134. The seat belt107may be buckled and pulled taut by the user. The user may grasp the handle162and press it parallel to the third axis1715of the base1702. This action may drive each engagement portion1729into the corresponding outer region1719of the base1702, which may further tighten the seat belt107.

Optionally, one or more latches132may be used to further secure the child seat1700on the car seat, either in addition to the seat belt107or in place of the seat belt107. Each latch132may include a hook or other suitable engagement feature. Optionally, a coupling assembly1741having a first member1731and a second member1733couples the latch132to the base1702. In these embodiments, the first member1731may be on the latch132and the second member1733may be on the base1702. A releasing component (not shown, but optionally similar to the latch locking mechanism109) optionally may disengage the first member1731from the second member1733as desired. Optionally, a linkage system1735may transfer mechanical energy from the action of the handle162to the coupling assembly1741. In such embodiments, a user may operate the releasing component to disengage the latch132from a bight of the car seat. The user may push the child seat1700into the seat bight, engaging the ratcheting system that may prevent the latch132from extending from the base1702unless the releasing component is operated. The user may then operate the handle162, which in turn acts upon the coupling assembly1741to further retract the latch132within the base1702(seeFIG.22). In some embodiments, each stroke of the handle162from the first configuration to the second configuration causes the latch132to retract into the base1701by a single ratchet position or “click,” further tightening and securing the child seat1700on the car seat.

In certain embodiments, the latches132optionally are coupled to the tensioning mechanism1704such that movement of the tensioning mechanism1704between the first configuration and the second configuration in turn moves the latches between a first configuration and a second configuration. In some embodiments, and as illustrated inFIGS.21and22, in the first (unlocked) configuration (FIG.21), the latches132may be in a first configuration having a first extension length, and in the second (locked) configuration (FIG.22), the latches132may be in a second configuration having a second extension length that is less than the first length. In such examples, the movement of the tensioning mechanism1704to the second configuration in turn pulls the child seat1700closer to and in tighter engagement with the car seat (assuming that the latches132have been engaged with the anchors of the car seat), which may provide increased safety to the occupant of the seat. The latches132in the first configuration (i.e., the extended configuration) may position the latches132to facilitate engagement of the latches132with the anchors of the car seat. The configurations of the latches132inFIGS.21and22are for illustrative purposes only, and in other embodiments, the latches132may be at different lengths when the tensioning mechanism1704is in the first configuration or the second configuration. As a non-limiting example, in some embodiments, the length of the latches132is greatest when the tensioning mechanism1704is in the second configuration. It is again noted that the latches132are optional, and embodiments that include the latches132, the child seat1700may be secured to the car seat using just the seat belt107, just the latches132, or both the seat belt107and the latches132. Moreover, as previously mentioned, the tensioning mechanism1704may be used with any type of child seat as desired, and the tensioning mechanism1704is not limited to infant car seats and/or the seat1700illustrated inFIGS.17-25.

A collection of exemplary embodiments are provided below, including at least some explicitly enumerated as “Illustrations” providing additional description of a variety of example embodiments in accordance with the concepts described herein. These illustrations are not meant to be mutually exclusive, exhaustive, or restrictive; and the disclosure not limited to these example illustrations but rather encompasses all possible modifications and variations within the scope of the issued claims and their equivalents.

Illustration 1. A child seat configured to be secured to a car seat, the child seat comprising: a base comprising a receiving region, wherein the base is configured to receive a belt of the car seat at least within the receiving region and to secure the child seat to the car seat; and a tensioning mechanism pivotably attached to the base within the receiving region, wherein the tensioning mechanism comprises first arm and a second arm, wherein the first arm is pivotably attached to the second arm, wherein the tensioning mechanism is adjustable between a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein, in the first configuration, the first arm is at a first angle relative to the second arm and the tensioning mechanism is configured to receive a portion of the belt, and wherein, in the second configuration, the first arm is at a second angle relative to the second arm that is different from the first angle and the tensioning mechanism is configured to apply tension to the portion of the belt.

Illustration 2. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the first arm comprises a top arm and the second arm comprises a bottom arm, wherein the bottom arm is pivotably attached to the base and pivotably attached to the top arm, and wherein the second angle is less than the first angle.

Illustration 3. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the first arm comprises a first top arm and the second arm comprises a first bottom arm, and wherein the tensioning mechanism further comprises: a second bottom arm pivotably attached to the base; and a second top arm pivotably attached to the second bottom arm and pivotably attached to the first top arm, wherein, in the first configuration, the first top arm extends at a non-straight angle relative to the second top arm, and in the second configuration, the first top arm extends parallel to the second top arm.

Illustration 4. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the tensioning mechanism comprises a locking pin movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the base further comprises a cavity within the receiving region, wherein the cavity comprises a bottom cavity surface and an end cavity surface extending outwards from the bottom cavity surface, wherein the end cavity surface comprises a locking aperture configured to receive the locking pin of the tensioning mechanism in the second configuration such that the locking pin is in the locked position.

Illustration 5. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the end cavity surface further comprises a guide channel, and wherein the tensioning mechanism further comprises a guide that is slidable within the guide channel.

Illustration 6. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the tensioning mechanism further comprises a biasing member biasing the locking pin towards the locked position.

Illustration 7. A child seat configured to be secured to a car seat, the child seat comprising: a base comprising a receiving region, wherein the base is configured to receive a belt of the car seat at least within the receiving region and to secure the child seat to the car seat; and a tensioning mechanism comprising a bottom arm and a top arm, wherein the bottom arm is pivotably attached to the base within the receiving region, and wherein the top arm is pivotably attached to the bottom arm, wherein the tensioning mechanism is adjustable between a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein, in the first configuration, the top arm extends at a first angle relative to the bottom arm and the tensioning mechanism is configured to receive a portion of the belt, and wherein, in the second configuration, the top arm extends at a second angle relative to the bottom arm that is different from the first angle and the tensioning mechanism is configured to apply tension to the portion of the belt.

Illustration 8. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the bottom arm comprises a first end and a second end opposite from the first end, wherein the top arm comprises a first end and a second end opposite from the first end, wherein the first end of the bottom arm is pivotably attached to the base, and wherein the second end of the bottom arm is pivotably attached to the top arm between the first end and the second end of the top arm.

Illustration 9. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the top arm further comprises a top side and a bottom side, and wherein the second end of the bottom arm is pivotably attached to the bottom side of the top arm between the first end and the second end of the top arm.

Illustration 10. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the top arm further comprises a front end, a back end opposite the front end, a top side, and a bottom side opposite the top side, and wherein a belt pathway is defined between the bottom side of the top arm and the base and between the bottom arm and the front end of the top arm.

Illustration 11. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the top arm comprises a front end, a back end opposite the front end, and a guide extending outwards from the back end, and wherein the base the base further comprises a cavity within the receiving region, wherein the cavity comprises a bottom cavity surface and an end cavity surface extending outwards from the bottom cavity surface, wherein the end cavity surface comprises a guide channel, and wherein the guide is slidable within the guide channel.

Illustration 12. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the top arm further comprises a front end and a back end opposite the front end, wherein the tensioning mechanism further comprises a handle pivotably supported by the top arm, and wherein the handle comprises a locking pin movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein, in the locked position, the locking pin extends outwards from the front end of the top arm.

Illustration 13. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the handle further comprises: a biasing member biasing the locking pin towards the locked position; and a button configured to selectively move the locking pin from the locked position to the unlocked position.

Illustration 14. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the bottom arm is a first bottom arm and the top arm is a first top arm, and wherein the tensioning mechanism further comprises: a second bottom arm pivotably attached to the base within the receiving region; and a second top arm pivotably attached to the second bottom arm and pivotably attached to the first top arm.

Illustration 15. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein, in the first configuration, the first top arm extends at a first top arm angle relative to the second top arm, and wherein, in the second configuration, the first top arm extends at a second top arm angle relative to the second top arm, wherein the first top arm angle is less than the second top arm angle.

Illustration 16. A child seat configured to be secured to a car seat, the child seat comprising: a base comprising a receiving region, wherein the base is configured to receive a belt of the car seat at least within the receiving region and to secure the child seat to the car seat; and a tensioning mechanism attached to the base within the receiving region and pivotable about a first pivot axis, wherein the tensioning mechanism comprises a second pivot axis offset from and parallel to the first pivot axis, wherein the second pivot axis is movable relative to the base, wherein the tensioning mechanism is adjustable between a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein, in the first configuration, the tensioning mechanism is configured to receive a portion of the belt, and wherein, in the second configuration, the tensioning mechanism is configured to apply tension to the portion of the belt.

Illustration 17. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the tensioning mechanism comprises a bottom arm and a top arm, wherein the bottom arm is pivotably attached to the base and pivotable about the first pivot axis, and wherein the top arm is pivotably attached to the bottom arm and defines the second pivot axis.

Illustration 18. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the bottom arm is a first bottom arm and the top arm is a first top arm, and wherein the tensioning mechanism further comprises: a second bottom arm pivotably attached to the base within the receiving region; and a second top arm pivotably attached to the second bottom arm and pivotably attached to the first top arm.

Illustration 19. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein a greatest distance between the tensioning mechanism and the base in the first configuration is greater than a distance between the tensioning mechanism and the base in the second configuration.

Illustration 20. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the tensioning mechanism comprises: a bottom arm attached to the base within the receiving region, the bottom arm pivotable relative to the base about the first pivot axis; a top arm attached to the bottom arm, the attachment of the top arm and the bottom arm defining the second pivot axis, and wherein the top arm is pivotable relative to the bottom arm about the second pivot axis; and a handle supported by the top arm, wherein the handle comprises a locking pin configured to engage the base in the second configuration.

Illustration 21. A child seat configured to be secured to a car seat, the child seat comprising: a base comprising a first side, a second side opposite the first side, and a receiving region between the first side and the second side, wherein the base is configured to receive a belt of the car seat from the first side to the second side and within the receiving region; and a tensioning mechanism pivotably attached to the base within the receiving region, wherein the tensioning mechanism is adjustable between a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein, in the first configuration, the tensioning mechanism is configured to receive a portion of the belt, wherein, in the second configuration, the tensioning mechanism is configured to apply tension to the portion of the belt, and wherein, in both the first configuration and the second configuration, the tensioning mechanism and the base define a tortuous, nonlinear belt pathway from the first side of the base to the second side of the base.

Illustration 22. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the tensioning mechanism comprises a first arm and a second arm pivotably attached to the first arm, wherein, in the first configuration, first arm extends at a first angle relative to the second arm, and in the second configuration, the first arm extends at a second angle relative to the second arm that is different from the first angle.

Illustration 23. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the tensioning mechanism comprises a bottom arm and a top arm, wherein the bottom arm is pivotably connected to the base within the receiving region, and wherein the top arm is pivotably connected to the bottom arm.

Illustration 24. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the bottom arm comprises a first end and a second end opposite from the first end, wherein the top arm comprises a first end and a second end opposite from the first end, wherein the first end of the bottom arm is pivotably attached to the base, and wherein the second end of the bottom arm is pivotably attached to the top arm between the first end and the second end of the top arm.

Illustration 25. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the top arm further comprises a top side and a bottom side, and wherein the second end of the bottom arm is pivotably attached to the bottom side of the top arm between the first end and the second end of the top arm.

Illustration 26. The child seat of any preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the top arm further comprises a front end, a back end opposite the front end, a top side, and a bottom side opposite the top side, and wherein the belt pathway is defined between the bottom side of the top arm and the base and between the bottom arm and the front end of the top arm.

The above-described aspects are merely possible examples of implementations, merely set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the present disclosure. Many variations and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiment(s) without departing substantially from the spirit and principles of the present disclosure. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of the present disclosure, and all possible claims to individual aspects or combinations of elements or steps are intended to be supported by the present disclosure. Moreover, although specific terms are employed herein, as well as in the claims that follow, they are used only in a generic and descriptive sense, and not for the purposes of limiting the described embodiments, nor the claims that follow.