Head and Limb Safety Crib Bumper System

Abstract

The present invention relates to a novel crib bumper device which creates a safe and soft environment for an infant sleeping in a crib. The device is configured to fit snugly between the vertical slats of a crib. Specifically, the device comprises a foam component of adjustable length, with a flat back surface and an inside portion comprising elongated, mushroom-shaped columns sized to fit between the vertical slats of a crib. The flat outside surface is then secured around the perimeter of a crib via a hook and loop fastener strap.

Claims

1. A crib bumper device for keeping an infant safe and comfortable while in a crib, the crib bumper device comprising: a foam component having a flat back surface and an inside portion, wherein the inside portion comprises a plurality of elongated, mushroom-shaped columns sized to fit between a plurality of vertical slats of the crib.

2. The crib bumper device of claim 1, wherein once the plurality of elongated, mushroom-shaped columns are positioned between the plurality of vertical slats of the crib, the flat back surface is then secured around a perimeter of the crib.

3. The crib bumper device of claim 2, wherein the flat back surface is secured around the perimeter of the crib via a fastener strap.

4. The crib bumper device of claim 3, wherein the fastener strap comprises a hook and loop securing means.

5. The crib bumper device of claim 4, wherein the foam component is approximately 52 inches in length and between 8 and 12 inches in height.

6. The crib bumper device of claim 4, wherein the foam component is between 30 and 32 inches in length.

7. The crib bumper device of claim 1 wherein the plurality of elongated, mushroom-shaped columns, when inserted between the plurality of vertical slats of the crib, do not wrap all the way around any of the plurality of the vertical slats of the crib, thereby creating a plurality of channels that allow air to enter an interior of the crib.

8. The crib bumper device of claim 1 further comprising an outer fabric sleeve for covering the foam component.

9. The crib bumper device of claim 8, wherein the outer fabric sleeve is secured via a zipper.

10. The crib bumper device of claim 1, wherein the foam component is of unitary construction.

11. The crib bumper device of claim 1, wherein the flat back surface and the inside portion are independent components secured together.

12. The crib bumper device of claim 1, wherein each of the inside portion and the flat back surface comprise a plurality of indicia.

13. The crib bumper device of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of elongated, mushroom-shaped columns are spaced approximately two inches apart.

14. A crib bumper device for keeping an infant safe and comfortable while in a crib, the crib bumper device comprising: a foam component having a flat back surface and an inside portion; wherein the inside portion comprises a plurality of elongated, mushroom-shaped columns sized to fit between a plurality of vertical slats of the crib; wherein once the plurality of elongated, mushroom-shaped columns are positioned between the plurality of vertical slats of the crib, the flat back surface is then secured around a perimeter of the crib via a fastener strap having a hook and loop securing means; and further wherein the plurality of elongated, mushroom-shaped columns, when inserted between the plurality of vertical slats of the crib, do not wrap all the way around the plurality of vertical slats of the crib, thereby creating a plurality of channels that allow air to enter an interior portion of the crib.

15. The crib bumper device of claim 14 further comprising an outer fabric sleeve for covering the foam component.

16. The crib bumper device of claim 14, wherein each of the inside portion and the flat back surface comprise a plurality of indicia.

17. A method of providing an improved barrier system for protecting an infant sleeping within a crib, the method comprising the steps of: inserting a foam component into a fabric covering; closing a fastening means on the fabric covering to keep the foam component in place; positioning the fabric covering and the foam component along a perimeter of a crib; and securing the fabric covering and foam component around the perimeter of the crib.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the foam component comprises a plurality of elongated, mushroom-shaped columns that are sized to fit between a plurality of vertical slats of the crib.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein pushing the plurality of elongated, mushroom-shaped columns between the plurality of vertical slats of the crib, secures the fabric covering and the foam component onto the crib.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the fabric covering and foam component are secured around the perimeter of the crib via a fastener strap having a hook and loop securing means.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

[0023] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the crib bumper device of the present invention in use in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0024] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the crib bumper device of the present invention unattached to a crib in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0025] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view showing the foam bumpers of the crib bumper device in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0026] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view showing the foam bumpers of the crib bumper device secured to the vertical slats of a crib in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0027] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the crib bumper device of the present invention secured around a perimeter of a crib in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

[0028] FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart showing the method of providing an improved barrier system for protecting infants sleeping within a crib in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0029] The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

[0030] As noted above, there is a long-felt need in the art for a crib bumper device that provides bumpers that are designed to fit between the vertical rails of a crib. There is also a long-felt need in the art for a crib bumper device that is configured around a crib perimeter and secured via a hook and loop fastener strap. Further, there is a long-felt need in the art for a crib bumper device that ensures the bumpers fit between the vertical rails on the crib, preventing an infant from getting their limbs stuck between the rails. Moreover, there is a long-felt need in the art for a device that cushions an infant from bumping in the hard edges of a crib while sleeping. Further, there is a long-felt need in the art for a crib bumper device that offers a way to improve the overall sleep quality for infants within a crib. Finally, there is a long-felt need in the art for a crib bumper device that provides infants with a comfortable means of sleeping within a crib, without risk of suffocation.

[0031] The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is a novel crib bumper device for keeping infants safe and comfortable while in a crib. The device is comprised of a foam bumper system that wraps around the crib perimeter. The device has a flat back surface which would face outward from the crib base, with the inside portion comprising a plurality of elongated, mushroom-shaped columns spaced approximately two inches apart. The present invention also includes a novel method of providing an improved barrier system for protecting infants sleeping within a crib. The method includes the steps of inserting a foam bumper into the fabric covering. After the fabric covering is in place, the method continues with positioning the device along an outside perimeter of a crib, with the plurality of mushroom-shaped columns facing the slats of the crib. Further, the method continues by pushing the plurality of mushroom-shaped columns between the crib slats, securing the device. Finally, once in the desired position, the method provides for securing the flat outside portion of the device via a fastener strap with a hook and loop securing means.

[0032] Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the crib bumper device 100 of the present invention. In the present embodiment, the crib bumper device 100 is an improved crib bumper device for keeping infants safe and comfortable while in a crib. More specifically, the crib bumper device 100 is dimensioned to fit snugly between the vertical slats of a crib. The device 100 comprises a foam component 102 of adjustable length, with a flat back surface 104 and an inside portion 103 comprising a plurality of elongated, mushroom-shaped columns 106 sized to fit between the vertical slats 108 of a crib 110. The flat outside surface 104 is then secured around a perimeter of a crib 110 via a fastener strap 112 with a hook and loop securing means 114. Accordingly, utilizing the herein embodiments of the crib bumper device 100 prevents an infant 118 from getting their limbs 116 stuck in the crib rails or slats 108 and cushions the infant 118 from bumping into the crib's edges 120.

[0033] FIG. 1 illustrates a first embodiment of the crib bumper device 100 that comprises a foam component 102. The foam component 102 is dimensioned to encompass a large variety of crib rails or slats 108. In a preferred embodiment, the foam component 102 is approximately 52 inches in length and between approximately 8-12 inches in height, depending on the material chosen. Alternatively, the foam component 102 could be approximately 30-32 inches in length to accommodate specific crib dimensions.

[0034] In another embodiment, the crib bumper device 100 comprises a long, cushioned, two-sided, rectangular shaped foam protective component 102 that fits securely between each individual crib slat 108. The foam component 102 is typically manufactured of a particular density of foam, or foam-like material, or any other suitable material as is known in the art, including but not limited to, open cell polyurethane foam with a thickness of .sup.˜⅜″, a closed cell polyethylene foam with a thickness of .sup.˜¾″, a 100% natural latex foam, a chemical free foam, or a fire-resistant foam. Thus, the device 100 provides a soft surface for the infant's head and body and prevents any part of the hard crib rail, edge, and/or slats 108 from coming into contact with the infant 118. Accordingly, the device 100 can be easily inserted between the crib slats 108 and secured and is simple to remove for cleaning. Specifically, once removed, the device 100 can be wiped down with a damp cloth and/or child-safe disinfectant.

[0035] Furthermore, the inside portion 103 of the device 100, comprising a plurality of elongated, mushroom-shaped columns 106 sized to fit between the vertical slats 108 of a crib 110, does not allow an infant 118 to climb on it and/or use it as leverage to push his or her body over the crib 110 due to its unique shape and the fact that once inserted, very little material protrudes through the slats 108 and into the crib 110 for the child 118 to stand on. Additionally, if a child 118 presses on the plurality of mushroom-shaped columns 106 or rolls into them, the plurality of mushroom-shaped columns 106 will not be pushed out by the child 118. The shape of the columns 106 provides additional surface area that must be forced through the recesses between the crib slats 108, and once through, it expands requiring additional force to remove the columns 106.

[0036] In another embodiment, the device 100 allows air to circulate between the crib slats 108 and through the material of the device 100. Specifically, the plurality of elongated mushroom-shaped columns 106 do not wrap all the way around the crib slats 108, creating channels 122 which allow air to enter and reduce the possibility of suffocation and any unnecessary risk of SIDs.

[0037] In another embodiment, the crib bumper device 100 comprises an outer fabric sleeve 124 or covering over the foam component 102. The outer fabric sleeve 124 or covering is manufactured from knitted, removable and washable soft fabrics that are comforting and aesthetically pleasing and can easily be removed for individual washing, such as but not limited to, a polypropylene non-woven material, which has inherent water repellant properties, which can protect and extend the useful life of the foam component 102 while retaining washability, as well as fabrics comprising natural fibers, synthetic fibers and blends thereof, and fire-resistant materials. The outer fabric covering 124 is typically secured via a zipper 126, but any suitable securing means as is known in the art can be used to secure the covering, such as buttons, snaps, Velcro, ties, etc. Thus, the device 100 can easily be applied and is simple to remove for washing when needed.

[0038] Further, due to its sleek design and independence of any ties to secure it, the crib bumper device 100 does not hinder the removal of the crib sheet 128 or the movement of the crib 110 when retrieving the baby 118. The lack of ties also makes it less dangerous and less cumbersome in its overall use and does not risk the child 118 becoming entangled with the ties. The preferred embodiment of the present invention also allows the baby 118 to see through the crib slats 108.

[0039] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the crib bumper device 100 of the present invention. In this embodiment, a crib bumper device 100 is disclosed that is rectangular in shape with two sides. A flat, outer surface 104 is located on the first side and a plurality of elongated, mushroom-shaped columns 106 is located on the second side or inside portion 103.

[0040] Typically, the two sides are integral and formed as one piece. Additionally, in another embodiment, the two sides can be independent of each other and secured together via any suitable securing means as is known in the art, such as gluing. If independent, the two sides can be manufactured of different materials, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user. For example, the outer surface could be made of a fabric that matches the crib sheets 128 and/or other room décor to make the device 100 aesthetically pleasing.

[0041] In another embodiment, the plurality of mushroom-shaped columns 106 and/or the flat, back surface 104 of the crib bumper device 100 comprises a plurality of indicia 200, designs, patterns, and/or other aesthetics. Specifically, the device 100 can include advertising, a trademark, or other letters, designs, or characters, printed, painted, stamped, or integrated into the device 100, or any other indicia 200 as is known in the art. Specifically, any suitable 202 indicia as is known in the art can be included, such as but not limited to, patterns, logos, emblems, images, symbols, designs, letters, words, characters, animals, advertisements, brands, etc., that may or may not be child/brand related.

[0042] The crib bumper device 100 can be manufactured in a variety of shapes and styles, as there are many different sizes, shapes, and styles of cribs 110 available. Full use and practicality of this invention depends on its flexible, yet precise, measurements and size. Unlike previous art, the invention fits all types of crib slats 108.

[0043] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the crib bumper device 100 of the present invention. The crib bumper device 100 shown in the drawings addresses the shortcomings of existing crib bumpers. The crib bumper device 100 comprises an outer covering 124 of fabric material. The outer covering 124 of fabric material can comprise a resiliently cushioning core of foam. The resultant device 100 can comprise one long continuous and uninterrupted strip for securing around the perimeter of a crib 110 or can comprise a string of four serially connected bumper devices 100, that when suitably positioned, extend along the four sides of a standard-sized crib mattress. Desirably, the device 100 should remain in a vertical orientation, and should remain fully extended to its full vertical height rather than collapsing or bunching and should remain closely adjacent to the walls of the crib 110 with the lower edge of the device 100 either resting atop the upper surface of the crib mattress or tucked between the outer edge of the mattress and the adjacent crib wall.

[0044] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the crib bumper device 100 of the present invention. In use, the foam component 102 is inserted into the fabric covering 124. After the foam component 102 is inserted into the fabric covering 124, the fastening means 126 is closed to keep the foam component 102 in place. Such a design allows the foam component 102 to be removed for cleaning or replacement and allows the outer fabric covering 124 to be more easily machine-washed. After the outer fabric covering 124 is in place, the device 100 is positioned along an outside perimeter of a crib 110, with the plurality of mushroom-shaped columns 106 facing the slats 108 of the crib 110. The plurality of mushroom-shaped columns 106 are then pushed between the crib slats 108, securing the device 100. Once in the desired position, the flat outside portion 104 of the device 100 is secured via a fastener strap 112 with a hook and loop securing means 114.

[0045] Furthermore, by using materials, such as foam padding, fabric and zippers, as well as a structure lacking rigid support elements, the disclosed embodiments allow the crib bumper device 100 to compress to fit between the crib slats 108. In such a manner, a single size crib bumper device 100 can be used with slats 108 of various lengths and widths to provide a “one size fits all” solution for a majority of crib owners. A plurality of uniform-sized crib bumper devices 100 comprising a plurality of elongated, mushroom-shaped columns 106 spaced approximately two inches apart, can then be sold as a set for use with a large variety of cribs 110.

[0046] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the crib bumper device 100 of the present invention. The crib bumper device 100 is disclosed for keeping infants 118 safe and comfortable while in a crib 110. The device 100 is comprised of a foam component 102 that wraps around the crib perimeter. The device 100 has a flat back surface 104 which would face outward from the crib base, with the inside portion 103 comprising a plurality of elongated, mushroom-shaped columns 106 spaced approximately two inches apart. The device 100 is then positioned in a removable, washable outer fabric covering 124. The device 100 is then installed by pushing the plurality of elongated, mushroom-shaped columns 106 between the vertical slats 108 of the crib 110. The flat back surface 104 is then secured via a strap 112 with a hook and loop securing means 114. The crib bumper device 100 thus provides a safe and soft environment for an infant 118 sleeping in a crib 110.

[0047] FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart of the method of providing an improved barrier system for protecting infants sleeping within a crib. The method includes the steps of at 600, inserting a foam component into the fabric covering. After the foam component is inserted into the fabric covering, the method continues with at 602, closing the fastening means to keep the foam component in place. Such a design allows the foam component to be removed for cleaning or replacement and allows the fabric covering to be more easily machine-washed. After the fabric covering is in place, the method continues with at 604, positioning the fabric covering and foam component along an outside perimeter of a crib, with the plurality of mushroom-shaped columns facing the slats of the crib. Further, the method continues at 606, by pushing the plurality of mushroom-shaped columns between the crib slats, securing the fabric covering and foam component. Finally, once in the desired position, the method provides for at 608, securing the flat outside portion of the foam component via a fastener strap with a hook and loop securing means.

[0048] Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different users may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “crib bumper device” and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the crib bumper device 100 of the present invention.

[0049] Notwithstanding the forgoing, the crib bumper device 100 of the present invention can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that it accomplishes the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the crib bumper device 100 as shown in FIGS. 1-6 is for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the crib bumper device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the crib bumper device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the crib bumper device 100 may be of any size that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.

[0050] Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

[0051] What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.