CHILD CARRIER

Abstract

A child carrier, in various embodiments, comprises: (1) a torso support portion configured to support an upper portion of the body of a child; (2) a seat support portion configured to support the bottom of the child; (3) a waist belt configured to engage a user's waist; (4) a head support configured to selectively support the head of the child; and (5) a first shoulder strap and a second shoulder strap (e.g., which are configured to strap over the shoulders of the individual wearing the child carrier). In particular embodiments, the child carrier comprises leg supports configured to enable an individual to selectively alter the configuration of the child carrier between a first configuration (in which the legs of the child are supported in a wide position) and a second configuration (in which the legs of the child are supported in a narrow position).

Claims

1. A child carrier for supporting a child while worn by an individual, the child carrier comprising: a torso support portion configured for supporting the torso of a child between the child carrier and the individual wearing the child carrier while the individual is wearing the child carrier, the torso support portion comprising a first shoulder strap and a second shoulder strap extending from an upper portion of opposing sides of the torso support portion; a seat support portion coupled to a base of the torso support portion configured for supporting the bottom of the child while the individual is wearing the child carrier and the child carrier is supporting the child, the seat support comprising: a first leg support comprising a first leg support fastener of a first fastener type; and a second leg support comprising a second leg support fastener of a second fastener type; and a waist belt coupled to the seat support portion configured to secure about a waist of the individual wearing the child carrier, the waist belt comprising: a first wide position fastener of the second fastener type configured to at least temporarily engage with the first leg support fastener in a first configuration; and a second wide position fastener of the first fastener type configured to at least temporarily engage with the second leg support fastener in the first configuration, wherein: the first leg support and the second leg support are secured in the first configuration such that the seat support portion has a first width and is configured to support the child with a first leg and a second leg substantially perpendicular to a body of the child; and the first leg support fastener is configured to at least temporarily engage the second leg support fastener in a second configuration in which the seat support portion has a second width that is narrower than the first width.

2. The child carrier of claim 1, wherein: the first leg support is substantially triangular and comprises a first seat support leg position adjusting strap; the first leg support fastener is disposed on an end of the first seat support leg position adjusting strap; the second leg support is substantially triangular and comprises a second seat support leg position adjusting strap; and the second leg support fastener is disposed on an end of the second seat support leg position adjusting strap.

3. The child carrier of claim 2, wherein: the first seat support leg positing adjusting strap defines a first vertex of the substantially triangular first leg support; and the second seat support leg positing adjusting strap defines a first vertex of the substantially triangular second leg support.

4. The child carrier of claim 1, wherein: the waist belt defines a second configuration fastener pocket disposed adjacent a central portion of the waist belt; and the first leg support fastener is configured to at least temporarily engage the second leg support fastener at least partially within the second configuration fastener pocket in the second configuration.

5. The child carrier of claim 1, wherein: the waist belt defines a first wide position fastener pocket adjacent a first side of the waist belt; the waist belt defines a second wide position fastener pocket adjacent a second side of the waist belt; the first wide position fastener is at least partially disposed in the first wide position fastener pocket; and the second wide position fastener is at least partially disposed in the second wide position fastener pocket.

6. The child carrier of claim 1, wherein the first wide position fastener and the second wide position fastener are substantially co-facing and spaced apart along a length of the waist belt.

7. The child carrier of claim 1, wherein the child carrier is configured to enable the first leg and the second to hang substantially parallel to the body of the child in the second configuration.

8. A child carrier comprising: a torso support portion configured for supporting the torso of a child between the child carrier and an individual wearing the child carrier while the individual is wearing the child carrier; a seat support portion coupled to the torso support portion configured for supporting the bottom of the child while the individual is wearing the child carrier and the child carrier is supporting the child, the seat support comprising a first leg support and a second leg support; and a waist belt coupled to the seat support portion configured to secure about a waist of the individual wearing the child carrier, wherein: the child carrier is configured to support the child in both: a first configuration in which the first leg support and the second leg support are at least temporarily coupled to the waist belt in a wide position; and a second configuration in which the first leg support is at least temporarily coupled to the second leg support in a narrow position; the first leg support and the second leg support are configured to at least partially support an upper portion of a first leg and a second leg of the child in the first configuration; and the first leg support and the second leg support are configured to enable the upper portion of the first and second leg of the child to hang substantially freely in the second configuration.

9. The child carrier of claim 8, wherein: the waist belt comprises a first wide position fastener adjacent a first side of the waist belt and a second wide position fastener adjacent a second side of the waist belt; the first wide position fastener is configured to at least temporarily engage with a first corresponding fastener disposed on the first leg support when the child carrier is in the first configuration; and the second wide position fastener is configured to at least temporarily engage with a second corresponding fastener disposed on the second leg support when the child carrier is in the first configuration.

10. The child carrier of claim 9, wherein the first wide position fastener and the second wide position fastener are substantially co-facing and spaced apart along a length of the waist belt.

11. The child carrier of claim 10, wherein the first wide position fastener and the second wide position fastener are substantially equally spaced apart from the pocket.

12. The child carrier of claim 11, wherein: the waist belt defines a first wide position fastener pocket adjacent the first side of the waist belt; the waist belt defines a second wide position fastener pocket adjacent the second side of the waist belt; the first wide position fastener is at least partially disposed in the first wide position fastener pocket; and the second wide position fastener is at least partially disposed in the second wide position fastener pocket.

13. The child carrier of claim 12, wherein, in the second configuration in which the first leg support is at least temporarily coupled to the second leg support in the narrow position, the first corresponding fastener is at least temporarily coupled to the second corresponding fastener.

14. The child carrier of claim 13, wherein: the fist wise position fastener and the second corresponding fastener have a first fastener type; and the second wide position fastener and the first corresponding fastener has a second fastener type.

15. The child carrier of claim 14, wherein the first fastener type is configured to engage and at least temporarily mate with the second fastener type.

16. The child carrier of claim 15, wherein the first fastener type and the second fastener type comprise at least one of a male buckle portion, a female buckle portion, a hook fastener, a loop fastener, a clip, a snap, or a magnet.

17. The child carrier of claim 15, wherein: the first leg support is substantially triangular and comprises a first seat support leg position adjusting strap; the first corresponding fastener is disposed on an end of the first seat support leg position adjusting strap; the second leg support is substantially triangular and comprises a second seat support leg position adjusting strap; the second corresponding fastener is disposed on an end of the second seat support leg position adjusting strap; the first seat support leg positing adjusting strap defines: a first vertex of the substantially triangular first leg support; a first wide position leg support outer portion along an edge of the substantially triangular first leg support in the first configuration; and a first narrow position leg support outer portion defined by a central portion of the first leg support in the second configuration; and the second seat support leg positing adjusting strap defines: a first vertex of the substantially triangular second leg support; a second wide position leg support outer portion along an edge of the substantially triangular second leg support in the first configuration; and a second narrow position leg support outer portion defined by a central portion of the second leg support in the second configuration.

18. A child carrier for supporting a child while worn by an individual, the child carrier comprising: a torso support portion configured for supporting the torso of a child between the child carrier and the individual wearing the child carrier while the individual is wearing the child carrier, the torso support portion comprising a first shoulder strap and a second shoulder strap extending from an upper portion of opposing sides of the torso support portion; a seat support portion coupled to a base of the torso support portion configured for supporting the bottom of the child while the individual is wearing the child carrier and the child carrier is supporting the child, the seat support comprising: a first leg support comprising a first leg support fastener of a first fastener type; and a second leg support comprising a second leg support fastener of a second fastener type; and a waist belt coupled to the seat support portion configured to secure about a waist of the individual wearing the child carrier, the waist belt comprising: a first wide position fastener of the second fastener type configured to at least temporarily engage with the first leg support fastener in a first configuration; a second wide position fastener of the first fastener type configured to at least temporarily engage with the second leg support fastener in the first configuration; and a pocket disposed substantially centrally along a width of the waist belt, wherein: the first leg support and the second leg support, when secured in the first configuration, are secured such that the seat support portion has a first width and is configured to support the child with a first leg and a second leg substantially perpendicular to a body of the child; and the first leg support fastener is configured to at least temporarily engage the second leg support fastener within the pocket in a second configuration in which the seat support portion has a second width that is narrower than the first width.

19. The child carrier of claim 18, wherein: the first leg support is substantially triangular and comprises a first seat support leg position adjusting strap and a first seat support inner base portion coupled to the waist belt and disposed in the pocket; the first leg support fastener is disposed on an end of the first seat support leg position adjusting strap; the second leg support is substantially triangular and comprises a second seat support leg position adjusting strap and a second seat support inner base portion coupled to the waist belt and disposed in the pocket adjacent the first seat support inner base portion; and the second leg support fastener is disposed on an end of the second seat support leg position adjusting strap.

20. The child carrier of claim 19, wherein the first seat support leg position adjusting strap and the second seat support leg position adjusting strap are at least partially disposed in the pocket in the second configuration; and the first leg support and the second leg support are respectively folded substantially in half in the second configuration.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] In the course of this description, reference will be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

[0013] FIG. 1 depicts an individual wearing a child carrier supporting a child, with the child worn on the front of the individual and facing the individual;

[0014] FIG. 2 depicts an individual wearing a child carrier supporting a child, with the child worn on the front of the individual and facing away from individual;

[0015] FIG. 3 depicts an individual wearing a child carrier supporting a child, with the child worn on the back of the individual and facing the individual;

[0016] FIG. 4 depicts a child carrier according to a particular embodiment, with upper leg supports disposed in a wide position;

[0017] FIG. 5 depicts a side view of the child carrier of FIG. 4;

[0018] FIG. 6 depicts a child carrier according to a particular embodiment, with upper leg supports disposed in a narrow position;

[0019] FIG. 7A depicts a front, outer view of the child carrier of FIG. 4;

[0020] FIG. 7B depicts a rear, inner view of the child carrier of FIG. 4;

[0021] FIG. 8A depicts an outer view of the child carrier of FIG. 4 in a wearing position, with a head support in a stowed position;

[0022] FIG. 8B depicts a rear, outer view of the child carrier of FIG. 4 in the wearing position, with the head support in a raised position;

[0023] FIG. 8C depicts a cutaway detail view of a portion of the head support of FIG. 8A;

[0024] FIG. 8D depicts an exploded view of a head support according to various embodiments;

[0025] FIG. 9A depicts a torso support portion of a child support according to various embodiments;

[0026] FIG. 9B depicts a detail exploded view of a shoulder strap attachment portion of the torso support portion of FIG. 9A;

[0027] FIG. 10A depicts a leg support portion of the child carrier of FIG. 4 with the leg supports in a wide position (e.g., first configuration);

[0028] FIG. 10B depicts a leg support portion of the child carrier of FIG. 4 with the leg supports in a narrow position (e.g., second configuration);

[0029] FIGS. 11A-11C depict an illustrative, step by step process of strapping the child carrier onto an individual.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Various embodiments now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

Overview

[0031] A child carrier 100, according to various embodiments, is configured to enable an individual 5 to carry a child 10 (e.g., by wearing the child carrier 100 and placing the individual 5 within the child carrier 100 such that the child carrier 100 supports the child 10 adjacent the individual 5). For example, in various embodiments, the child carrier 100 is configured to enable the individual 5 to wear the child 10: (1) in front of the individual 5 (e.g., in one or more different positions); (2) on the back of the individual 5; or (3) in any other orientation relative to the body of the individual 5 in which the child carrier 100 supports the child 10 against the body of the individual 5. By wearing a child 10 in such a manner, the child carrier 100 may enable the individual 5 to carry the child 10 without the use of his/her hands. In this way, the child carrier 100 is configured to enable an individual 5 to exert little effort in order to carry the 10, while freeing up the hands and arms of the individual 5 to perform other tasks.

[0032] In various embodiments, a child carrier 100 is configured to enable the individual 5 to transport a baby, child, infant, etc. while worn by the individual 5. In various embodiments of a child carrier 100, the child carrier 100 is configured to enable an individual 5 to carry a child 10 in a particular position and/or orientation (e.g., in one or more different positions and/or orientations by modifying a configuration of the child carrier 100). As may be understood by one skilled in the art, users of a child carrier 100 may desire to carry a child 10 in different positions (e.g., facing inward, facing outward, on their front, on their back, with legs in a wide position, with legs in a narrow position etc.). The different positions or orientations in which an individual 5 may desire to carry the child 10 may vary based on, for example: (1) the age of the child 10; (2) the size of the child 10; (3) the weight of the child 10; (4) the activity that the individual 5 is undertaking (e.g., housework, walking, hiking, etc.); (5) safety considerations; and/or (6) any other suitable factor or combination of factors.

[0033] FIG. 1 depicts an individual 5 wearing child carrier 100 supporting a child 10, with the child 10 worn on the front of the individual 5 and facing the individual 5. As may be understood from FIG. 1, when wearing the child 10 with the child carrier 100, the child carrier 100 supports the child 10 against the person of the individual 5 (e.g., such that the individual 5 is substantially secure between the child carrier 100 and the individual 5). In this way, the child 10 is essentially coupled to the individual 5 by the child carrier 100 (e.g., because the child carrier 100 is sufficiently tightly strapped to the individual 5 such that the child 10 is held securely and safely against the individual 5). As may be understood from FIG. 1 and in light of this disclosure, the child 10 in FIG. 1 is being supported by the child carrier 100 with the legs of the child 10 supported in a wide position. In such configurations, the legs of the child 10 are substantially perpendicular to the body of the child 10 (e.g., and to the body of the carrying individual 5). Such configurations may, for example, be useful for infants or younger children.

[0034] FIG. 2 depicts an individual 5 wearing a child carrier 100 supporting a child 10, with the child 10 worn on the front of the individual 5 and facing away from the individual 5. As shown in this figure, in this position, the child carrier 100 is supporting the child 10 against the individual 5 such that the back of the child 10 is against the front of the individual 5. The pressure of the child carrier 100 against the child 10 (e.g., when the child carrier 100 is worn sufficiently tightly by the individual 5) may, for example, support the child 10 against the individual 5 sufficiently snugly to maintain the child 10 safely adjacent the individual 5 while the individual 5 is wearing the child 10 in the child carrier 100. As may be understood from FIG. 2 and in light of this disclosure, the child 10 in FIG. 2 is being supported by the child carrier 100 with the legs of the child 10 supported in a narrow position. In such configurations, the legs of the child 10 are substantially parallel to the body of the child 10 (e.g., and to the body of the carrying individual 5). In various embodiments, the legs of the child 10 may hang substantially freely. Such configurations may, for example, be useful for toddlers or somewhat older children that are capable of supporting their own head and neck and have greater control of their own legs.

[0035] FIG. 3 depicts an individual 5 wearing a child carrier 100 supporting a 10, with the child 10 worn on the back of the individual 5 and facing the individual 5. As shown in this figure, in this position, the child carrier 100 is supporting the child 10 against the individual 5 such that the front of the child 10 is against the back of the individual 5. The pressure of the child carrier 100 against the child 10 (e.g., when the child carrier 100 is worn sufficiently tightly by the 5) may, for example, support the child 10 against the individual 5 sufficiently snugly to maintain the child 10 safely adjacent the individual 5 while the individual 5 is wearing the child 10 in the child carrier 100.

[0036] Various embodiments of a child carrier 100 described herein are configured to provide flexibility with respect to the manner in which the child carrier 100 supports a child 10 when worn by an individual 5. This may, for example, be beneficial when the individual 5 desires to use the same child carrier 100 as the child 10 grows. Different sized and aged children may require different configurations to improve the safety with which they are carried using the child carrier 100. By enabling an individual 5 to modify the configuration of the child carrier 100, the child carrier 100 may be configured to accommodate a child 10 from a young age (e.g., from the infant stage) through an older age (e.g., a toddler stage or older), simply by adjusting the configuration of the child carrier 100 and/or the manner in which the child 10 is placed in the child carrier 100 when worn by the individual 5.

Child Carrier

[0037] FIG. 4 depicts a child carrier 100 according to a particular embodiment. As shown in this embodiment, the child carrier 100 comprises: (1) a torso support portion 140 configured to support an upper portion of the body of a child 10 while the child 10 is worn in the child carrier 100 (e.g., configured to support the upper portion of the body of the child 10 against the body of an individual 5 while the individual 5 is wearing the child carrier 100); (2) a seat support portion 150 configured to support the bottom of the child 10 such that the child 10 is substantially sitting in the seat support portion 150; (3) a waist belt 200 configured to enable an individual 5 to wear the waist belt 200 around his/her waist while wearing the child carrier 100; (4) a head support 120 configured to selectively support the head of the child 10; and (5) a first shoulder strap 102 and a second shoulder strap 112 (e.g., which are configured to strap over the shoulders of the individual 5 wearing the child carrier 100). As may be understood from this disclosure, the child carrier 100 comprises leg supports (e.g., a second leg support 153 and a first leg support 151, not pictured) configured to enable the individual 5 wearing the child carrier 100 to selectively alter the configuration of the child carrier 100 between a first configuration (in which the legs of the child 10 are supported by the child carrier 100 are in a wide position) and a second configuration (in which the legs of the child 10 are supported by the child carrier 100 in a narrow position, or otherwise hanging substantially freely).

[0038] As shown in FIG. 4, the child carrier 100 comprises at least one shoulder strap receiving fastener (e.g., a second shoulder strap receiving fastener 147) configured to receive a corresponding shoulder strap fastener to enable the individual to secure the first shoulder strap 102 and the second shoulder strap 112 over their shoulders while wearing the child carrier 100. As may be further understood in light of this disclosure, the child carrier 100 comprises at least one leg position adjusting strap (e.g., a second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163 and a first seat support leg position adjusting strap 161, not pictured) configured to selectively engage fasteners such that the second leg support 153 or the first leg support 151 are disposed in either of the first or second configuration. In the first configuration, for example, a fastener disposed on the second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163 may be at least temporarily coupled to a corresponding fastener at least partially disposed within a second wide position fastener pocket 232 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4). In other aspects, in the second configuration (e.g., shown in FIG. 6 and described more fully below), the fastener disposed on the second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163 may be at least temporarily coupled to a corresponding fastener at least partially disposed adjacent (e.g., and within) the scat support portion 150).

[0039] FIG. 5 depicts a side view of the child carrier 100 of FIG. 4. As shown in this figure, the waist belt 200 comprises straps for securing the waist belt 200 around the waist of an individual 5. For example, the waist belt 200 may comprise a first waist belt strap 206, not pictured and a second waist belt strap 216. As shown in this figure, the second waist belt strap 216 is coupled to a second waist fastener 218 configured to engage a corresponding fastener on the first waist belt strap 206, not pictured. In various embodiments, the second waist belt strap 216 (e.g., and/or the first waist belt strap 206) may be adjustable (e.g., such that a size of the waist belt 200 may be adjusted to securely fit waist sizes of different individuals). For example, the second waist fastener 218 may be configured to slideably adjust along a length of the second waist belt strap 216 such that a length of the waist belt 200 may be varied.

[0040] The waist belt 200 further comprises a second wide position fastener pocket 232 configured to receive and at least temporarily secure (e.g., using a suitable fastener disposed within the second wide position fastener pocket 232) the second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163 while the child carrier 100 is in the first configuration. In various embodiments, the waist belt 200 further comprises a corresponding first wide position fastener pocket 222, not pictured, on the opposing side of the waist belt 200. As may be understood from FIGS. 4-6, when the child carrier 100 is in the first configuration, the second leg support 153 may define a second wide position leg support outer portion 157 that is wider than a second narrow position leg support outer portion 159 when the child carrier 100 is in the second configuration. By increasing the width of the second leg support 153, the second leg support 153 may provide a wider seat and support for the legs for the seat support portion 150 when the child carrier 100 is in the first configuration.

[0041] FIG. 6 depicts a perspective view of the child carrier 100 in the second configuration. As may be understood from this figure, the second leg support 153 (e.g., and the second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163) is coupled to a corresponding fastener within the scat support portion 150 such that the second leg support 153 is disposed in the narrow-leg support position (e.g., second configuration). In various aspects, when a child 10 is supported in the child carrier 100 in this configuration, the legs of the child 10 may hang freely (e.g., as shown in FIG. 2) in a position that is substantially parallel to the body of the 10.

[0042] FIG. 7A depicts a front, outer view the child carrier of FIG. 4, with the waist belt 200 in a neutral position (e.g., hanging freely if the child carrier 100 were held up by the first shoulder strap 102 and the second shoulder strap 112). As may be understood from this figure, when in this free-hanging position, the torso support portion outer portion 142 of the torso support portion 140 is visible (e.g., the outer portion when an individual 5 is wearing the child carrier 100), while the waist belt inner face 201 (e.g., from the perspective of a wearing 5) of the waist belt 200 is visible. This may, for example, result from the flipping over of the torso support portion 140, first shoulder strap 102, and second shoulder strap 112 in order to strap the first shoulder strap 102 and second shoulder strap 112 into place after an individual 5 straps the waist belt 200 around their waist (e.g., as will be discussed more fully below with respect to FIGS. 11A-11C). As may be understood from FIG. 7, the first shoulder strap 102 comprises a first shoulder strap fastener 148 disposed adjacent an end of the first shoulder strap 102. In various aspects, the first shoulder strap fastener 148 is configured to at least temporarily couple to (e.g., mate with, engage, and/or otherwise fasten with) a corresponding fastener in order to secure the first shoulder strap 102 over one shoulder of the individual 5 in order to enable the individual 5 to wear the child carrier 100 while supporting a 10. In the embodiment shown in this figure, the first shoulder strap fastener 148 is slidably coupled adjacent an end of the first shoulder strap 102, such that the individual 5 may adjust a length of the first shoulder strap 102 (e.g., to enable a more secure attachment of the first shoulder strap 102 over their shoulder).

[0043] Similarly, the second shoulder strap 112 comprises a second shoulder strap fastener 149 disposed adjacent an end of the second shoulder strap 112. In various aspects, the second shoulder strap fastener 149 is configured to at least temporarily couple to (e.g., mate with, engage, and/or otherwise fasten with) a corresponding fastener in order to secure the second shoulder strap 112 over a second shoulder of the individual 5 in order to enable the individual 5 to wear the child carrier 100 while supporting a 10. In the embodiment shown in this figure, the second shoulder strap fastener 149 is slidably coupled adjacent an end of the second shoulder strap 112, such that the individual 5 may adjust a length of the second shoulder strap 112 (e.g., to enable a more secure attachment of the second shoulder strap 112 over their shoulder). In other aspects, the second shoulder strap 112 and/or the first shoulder strap 102 may comprise any other suitable mechanism for adjusting their length.

[0044] As may be further understood from FIG. 7A, the child carrier 100 comprises the head support 120, which may, for example, be configured to support the head of a child 10 in one or more different configurations. The child carrier 100 further defines the torso support portion outer portion 142 (e.g., as part of the torso support portion 140). The child carrier 100 further comprises a first leg support 151 and a second leg support 153, which may, for example, be coupled to the torso support portion outer portion 142. In some embodiments, the first leg support 151 and second leg support 153 are substantially contiguous with the torso support portion outer portion 142/torso support portion 140, forming a substantially continuous piece of material (e.g., whether from a single piece of material or from a plurality of pieces of material that are affixed to one another such as through sewing, fabric welding, or other suitable affixation technique). In various embodiment, any piece of material described herein (e.g., or portion of the child carrier 100) may comprise any suitable number of layers of fabric or other material (e.g., an inner layer, an outer layer, and one or more filler layers such as foams or other cushioning materials).

[0045] As discussed above, the first leg support 151 defines a first wide position leg support outer portion 156 (e.g., in the first configuration) or a first narrow position leg support outer portion 158 (e.g., in the second configuration). As such, a width of the first leg support 151 may vary depending on the configuration of the child carrier 100. The different widths may for example, define a narrower or wider seat support portion 150 (e.g., bottom support) for the child 10 such that the legs of the child 10 are supported in different orientations in the different configurations (e.g., as described throughout).

[0046] Similarly, the second leg support 153 defines a second wide position leg support outer portion 157 (e.g., in the first configuration) or a second narrow position leg support outer portion 159 (e.g., in the second configuration). As such, a width of the second leg support 153 may vary depending on the configuration of the child carrier 100. The different widths may for example, define a narrower or wider seat support portion 150 (e.g., bottom support) for the child 10 such that the legs of the child 10 are supported in different orientations in the different configurations (e.g., as described throughout).

[0047] FIG. 7B depicts a rear, inner view of the child carrier of FIG. 4, with the waist belt 200 in a neutral position (e.g., hanging freely if the child carrier 100 were held up by the first shoulder strap 102 and the second shoulder strap 112). As may be understood from this figure, when in this free-hanging position, the torso support portion inner portion 144 of the torso support portion 140 is visible (e.g., the inner portion when an individual 5 is wearing the child carrier 100), while the outer portion/face (e.g., from the perspective of a wearing 5) of the waist belt 200 is visible. This may, for example, result from the flipping over of the torso support portion 140, first shoulder strap 102, and second shoulder strap 112 in order to strap the first shoulder strap 102 and second shoulder strap 112 into place after an individual 5 straps the waist belt 200 around their waist (e.g., as will be discussed more fully below with respect to FIGS. 11A-11C).

[0048] As shown in this figure, the waist belt 200 comprises a narrow position fastener pocket 250 disposed substantially centrally along the waist belt 200 on the outer portion of the waist belt 200. In some aspects, the narrow position fastener pocket 250 is defined by an inner and outer piece of material (e.g., fabric). As shown in this figure, the first seat support inner base portion 162 of the first leg support 151 and the second seat support inner base portion 164 of the second leg support 153 extend into the narrow position fastener pocket 250 and are affixed to the waist belt 200 within the narrow position fastener pocket 250.

[0049] The waist belt 200 further comprises a first wide position fastener pocket 222 and a second wide position fastener pocket 232. In the embodiment shown in this figure, the first wide position fastener pocket 222 is defined by a first wide position pocket outer edge 221 and a first wide position pocket inner edge 223. The first wide position fastener pocket 222 is configured to receive the first seat support leg position adjusting strap 161 of the first leg support 151 when the child carrier 100 is in the first configuration (e.g., a when a fastener disposed on the end of the first seat support leg position adjusting strap 161 is engaged and/or mating with a corresponding fastener disposed within the first wide position fastener pocket 222). In some aspects, the first wide position fastener pocket 222 may comprise a piece of material (e.g., fabric) attached to an upper and lower portion of the waist belt 200. In the embodiment shown in this figure, the second wide position fastener pocket 232 is defined by a second wide position pocket outer edge 231 and a second wide position pocket inner edge 233. The second wide position fastener pocket 232 is configured to receive the second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163 of the second leg support 153 when the child carrier 100 is in the first configuration (e.g., a when a fastener disposed on the end of the second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163 is engaged and/or mating with a corresponding fastener disposed within the second wide position fastener pocket 232). In some aspects, the second wide position fastener pocket 232 may comprise a piece of material (e.g., fabric) attached to an upper and lower portion of the waist belt 200. As shown in this figure the waist belt 200 further comprises a first waist fastener 208 adjacent a first end of the waist belt 200. The first waist fastener 208 may be configured to at least temporarily fasten to a second waist fastener 218 disposed adjacent a second end of the waist belt 200 (e.g., in order to enable the individual 5 to strap the waist belt 200 around their waist).

[0050] As may be understood from FIG. 7B, the first leg support 151 comprises a first seat support leg position adjusting strap 161 configured to extend into the first wide position fastener pocket 222 in the first configuration and at least temporarily couple within (e.g., through operation of corresponding fasteners on the first seat support leg position adjusting strap 161 and within the first wide position fastener pocket 222) the first wide position fastener pocket 222. Alternatively, in the second configuration, the first seat support leg position adjusting strap 161 is configured to extend into and at least temporarily couple within the narrow position fastener pocket 250 (e.g., through operation of corresponding fasteners on the first scat support leg position adjusting strap 161 and within the narrow position fastener pocket 250). As shown in this figure, the first leg support 151 is substantially triangular, having a first vertex (e.g., the first seat support inner base portion 162) disposed within the narrow position fastener pocket 250, a second vertex (e.g., the first seat support leg position adjusting strap 161) at least temporarily disposed within the first wide position fastener pocket 222, and a third vertex adjacent the torso support portion 140. Similarly, the second leg support 153 comprises a second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163 configured to extend into the second wide position fastener pocket 232 in the first configuration and at least temporarily couple within (e.g., through operation of corresponding fasteners on the second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163 and within the second wide position fastener pocket 232) the second wide position fastener pocket 232. Alternatively, in the second configuration, the second scat support leg position adjusting strap 163 is configured to extend into and at least temporarily couple within the narrow position fastener pocket 250 (e.g., through operation of corresponding fasteners on the second scat support leg position adjusting strap 163 and within the narrow position fastener pocket 250). As shown in this figure, the second leg support 153 is substantially triangular, having a first vertex (e.g., the second seat support inner base portion 164) disposed within the narrow position fastener pocket 250, a second vertex (e.g., the second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163) at least temporarily disposed within the second wide position fastener pocket 232, and a third vertex adjacent the torso support portion 140. In various embodiment, the fasteners adjacent the respective vertices of the first seat support leg position adjusting strap 161 and the second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163 are configured to couple with one another within the narrow position fastener pocket 250 (e.g., as will be described more fully below).

Head Support

[0051] FIG. 8A depicts a child carrier 100 according to various embodiments. As may be understood from this figure, the head support 120 of the child carrier 100 is disposed adjacent an upper portion of the child carrier 100 (e.g., when worn by an individual 5). In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8A, the head support 120 is in a stowed position (e.g., such that at least a portion of the head support 120 is disposed within each of a first head support storage pocket 103 and a second head support storage pocket 113. As shown in this figure, the first head support storage pocket 103 is disposed adjacent an end of the first shoulder strap 102 and the second head support storage pocket 113 is disposed adjacent an end of the second shoulder strap 112. In various embodiments, the first head support storage pocket 103 defines a pocket configured to receive at least a portion of the head support 120 (e.g., the head support first side 121 shown in FIG. 8B). In this embodiment, the second head support storage pocket 113 also defines a pocket configured to receive at least a portion of the 12 (e.g., the head support second side 123 shown in FIG. 8B). In the stowed position, the head support 120 may, for example, rest against the torso support portion outer portion 142. In particular embodiments, as may be understood from FIG. 8C, the head support 120 comprise second head support fastener 126 (e.g., disposed on the head support second side 123). In various embodiments, the second head support fastener 126 is configured to engage with and/or otherwise at least temporarily couple with a second head support corresponding fastener 124 disposed on the second shoulder strap 112. In this way, the head support 120, when in the head support position shown in FIG. 8B may be maintained in the support position at least via the interaction between the second head support fastener 126 and the second head support corresponding fastener 124. The first shoulder strap 102 similarly comprises a first head support corresponding fastener 122 configured to engage with a fastener disposed on the head support first side 121 (not pictured).

[0052] FIG. 8D depicts an exploded view of a head support 120 according to various embodiments. As may be understood from this figure, the head support 120 may comprise a plurality of layers (e.g., of fabric, material, etc.). The layers may include, for example, a suitable inner and out layer as well as one or more inner layers (e.g., such as padding, foam, etc.).

Torso Support Portion

[0053] FIGS. 9A and 9B depict detail views of the torso support portion 140 of the child carrier 100. In particular, the torso support portion 140 comprises a torso support portion outer portion 142 and a torso support portion inner portion 144. The torso support portion 140 further comprises a shoulder strap receiving fastener support portion 145 comprising a first shoulder strap receiving fastener 146 and an opposing second shoulder strap receiving fastener 147. As may be understood from this disclosure, the second shoulder strap receiving fastener 147 is configured to receive the first shoulder strap fastener 148 of the first shoulder strap 102. Similarly, the first shoulder strap receiving fastener 146 is configured to receive the second shoulder strap fastener 149 of the second shoulder strap 112. In other embodiments, the second shoulder strap receiving fastener 147 may receive (e.g., engage with) the second shoulder strap fastener 149 and the first shoulder strap receiving fastener 146 may receive (e.g., fasten to) the first shoulder strap fastener 148. In various embodiments, the user may cross the shoulder straps when wearing the child carrier 100. In other embodiments, the shoulder strap receiving fasteners may be disposed in any other manner on the child carrier to enable a user to strap the shoulder straps over their person to wear the child carrier 100. In particular embodiments, the second shoulder strap receiving fastener 147 and first shoulder strap receiving fastener 146 may at least temporarily engage with (e.g., couple to) corresponding shoulder strap fasteners to maintain the torso support portion 140 (e.g., torso support portion inner portion 144) against the body of the individual 5 such that the torso support portion 140 supports the torso of the child 10 while the child carrier 100 is holding the 10.

Seat Support Portion and Waist Belt

[0054] FIGS. 10A and 10B depict the seat support portion 150 and waist belt 200 of the child carrier 100. FIG. 10A depicts the child carrier 100 with the seat support portion 150 in the first configuration, and FIG. 10B depicts the child carrier 100 with the seat support portion 150 in the second configuration.

[0055] FIG. 10A depicts a rear, inner view of a child carrier 100, with the waist belt 200 in a neutral position (e.g., hanging freely if the child carrier 100 were held up by the first shoulder strap 102 and the second shoulder strap 112). As may be understood from this figure, when in this free-hanging position, the torso support portion inner portion 144 of the torso support portion 140 is visible (e.g., the inner portion when an individual 5 is wearing the child carrier 100), while the outer portion/face (e.g., from the perspective of a wearing 5) of the waist belt 200 is visible. This may, for example, result from the flipping over of the torso support portion 140, first shoulder strap 102, and second shoulder strap 112 in order to strap the first shoulder strap 102 and second shoulder strap 112 into place after an individual 5 straps the waist belt 200 around their waist (e.g., as will be discussed more fully below with respect to FIGS. 11A-11C).

[0056] As shown in this figure, the waist belt 200 comprises a narrow position fastener pocket 250 disposed substantially centrally along the waist belt 200 on the outer portion of the waist belt 200. In some aspects, the narrow position fastener pocket 250 is defined by an inner and outer piece of material (e.g., fabric). As shown in this figure, the first seat support inner base portion 162 of the first leg support 151 and the second seat support inner base portion 164 of the second leg support 153 extend into the narrow position fastener pocket 250 and are affixed to the waist belt 200 within the narrow position fastener pocket 250.

[0057] The waist belt 200 further comprises a first wide position fastener pocket 222 and a second wide position fastener pocket 232. In the embodiment shown in this figure, the first wide position fastener pocket 222 is defined by a first wide position pocket outer edge 221 and a first wide position pocket inner edge 223. The first wide position fastener pocket 222 is configured to receive the first seat support leg position adjusting strap 161 of the first leg support 151 when the child carrier 100 is in the first configuration (e.g., a when a first leg support fastener 152 disposed on the end of the first seat support leg position adjusting strap 161 is engaged and/or mating with a corresponding first wide position fastener 202 disposed within the first wide position fastener pocket 222). In some aspects, the first wide position fastener pocket 222 may comprise a piece of material (e.g., fabric) attached to an upper and lower portion of the waist belt 200. In the embodiment shown in this figure, the second wide position fastener pocket 232 is defined by a second wide position pocket outer edge 231 and a second wide position pocket inner edge 233. The second wide position fastener pocket 232 is configured to receive the second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163 of the second leg support 153 when the child carrier 100 is in the first configuration (e.g., a when a second leg support fastener 154 disposed on the end of the second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163 is engaged and/or mating with a corresponding second wide position fastener 212 disposed within the second wide position fastener pocket 232). In some aspects, the second wide position fastener pocket 232 may comprise a piece of material (e.g., fabric) attached to an upper and lower portion of the waist belt 200. As shown in this figure the waist belt 200 further comprises a first waist fastener 208 adjacent a first end of the waist belt 200 (e.g., on the second waist belt strap 216). The first waist fastener 208 may be configured to at least temporarily fasten to a second waist fastener 218 disposed adjacent a second end of the waist belt 200 (e.g., in order to enable the individual 5 to strap the waist belt 200 around their waist).

[0058] As may be understood from FIGS. 10A and 10B, the first leg support 151 comprises a first seat support leg position adjusting strap 161 configured to extend into the first wide position fastener pocket 222 in the first configuration and at least temporarily couple within (e.g., through operation of corresponding fasteners on the first seat support leg position adjusting strap 161 and within the first wide position fastener pocket 222) the first wide position fastener pocket 222. Alternatively, in the second configuration (as shown in FIG. 10B), the first seat support leg position adjusting strap 161 is configured to extend into and at least temporarily couple within the narrow position fastener pocket 250 (e.g., through operation of corresponding fasteners on the first seat support leg position adjusting strap 161 and within the narrow position fastener pocket 250). As shown in FIG. 10A, the first leg support 151 is substantially triangular (e.g., in the first, spread configuration), having a first vertex (e.g., the first seat support inner base portion 162) disposed within the narrow position fastener pocket 250, a second vertex (e.g., the first scat support leg position adjusting strap 161) at least temporarily disposed within the first wide position fastener pocket 222, and a third vertex adjacent the torso support portion 140. Similarly, the second leg support 153 comprises a second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163 configured to extend into the second wide position fastener pocket 232 in the first configuration and at least temporarily couple within (e.g., through operation of corresponding fasteners on the second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163 and within the second wide position fastener pocket 232) the second wide position fastener pocket 232. Alternatively, in the second configuration, the second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163 is configured to extend into and at least temporarily couple within the narrow position fastener pocket 250 (e.g., through operation of corresponding fasteners on the second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163 and within the narrow position fastener pocket 250). As shown in this figure, the second leg support 153 is substantially triangular, having a first vertex (e.g., the second seat support inner base portion 164) disposed within the narrow position fastener pocket 250, a second vertex (e.g., the second scat support leg position adjusting strap 163) at least temporarily disposed within the second wide position fastener pocket 232, and a third vertex adjacent the torso support portion 140. In various embodiment, the fasteners adjacent the respective vertices of the first seat support leg position adjusting strap 161 and the second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163 (i.e., the second leg support fastener 154 and the first leg support fastener 152) are configured to couple with one another within the narrow position fastener pocket 250 (e.g., as will be described more fully below).

[0059] As shown in FIG. 10A, the first leg support fastener 152 disposed on the end of the first seat support leg position adjusting strap 161 is a fastener of a first type. The first leg support fastener 152 may be a fastener configured to couple to (e.g., at least temporarily couple to) the first wide position fastener 202 disposed within the first wide position fastener pocket 222. In other aspects, the first wide position fastener 202 may be disposed on the waist belt 200 (i.e., without being disposed in any pocket such as the first wide position fastener pocket 222). The first wide position fastener 202 may be a fastener of a second type. In various embodiments, the first type of fastener may be a male-type fastener and the second type of fastener may be a female-type fastener configured to receive the first type of fastener. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the first leg support fastener 152 and the second wide position fastener 212 are fasteners of a first type; and the first wide position fastener 202 and the second leg support fastener 154 are fasteners of a second type. In this way, the first leg support fastener 152 is configured to: (1) engage and couple with the first wide position fastener 202 within the first wide position fastener pocket 222 in the first configuration; and (2) engage and couple with the second leg support fastener 154 within the narrow position fastener pocket 250 in the second configuration. Similarly, the second leg support fastener 154 is configured to: (1) engage and couple with the second wide position fastener 212 within the second wide position fastener pocket 232 in the first configuration; and (2) engage and couple with the first leg support fastener 152 within the narrow position fastener pocket 250 in the second configuration. In this way, the child carrier 100 is configured such that an individual 5 can alternate the configuration of the child carrier 100 from the first configuration to the second configuration by: (1) disengaging the first leg support fastener 152 from the first wide position fastener 202; (2) disengaging the first leg support fastener 152 from the second wide position fastener 212; and (3) engaging the first leg support fastener 152 to the second leg support fastener 154 in the narrow position fastener pocket 250 (and vice versa for alternating from the second configuration to the first configuration).

[0060] In various embodiments, the first wide position fastener 202 and the second wide position fastener 212 are substantially co-facing (e.g., co-facing) and spaced apart on the waist belt 200.

[0061] In various embodiments, when the first leg support fastener 152 and the second leg support fastener 154 are engaged within the narrow position fastener pocket 250, the coupled first leg support fastener 152 and second leg support fastener 154 are disposed between the outer portion of the narrow position fastener pocket 250 and the first seat support inner base portion 162 and second seat support inner base portion 164. In this way, the first seat support leg position adjusting strap 161 and the second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163 are at least partially folded toward the central portion of the waist belt 200 (e.g., toward the narrow position fastener pocket 250 such that at least a portion of the first seat support leg position adjusting strap 161 and second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163 are disposed within the narrow position fastener pocket 250). In this way, in the second configuration, the first leg support 151 and the second leg support 153 define a first narrow position leg support outer portion 158 and a second narrow position leg support outer portion 159 such that the seat support portion 150 is narrower than when the child carrier 100 is in the first configuration. When the first leg support fastener 152 is engaged with the first wide position fastener 202 and the second leg support fastener 154 is engaged with the second wide position fastener 212 (i.e., in the first configuration), the first seat support leg position adjusting strap 161 is at least partially disposed within the first wide position fastener pocket 222 (e.g., and spread outwards) and the second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163 is at least partially disposed within the second wide position fastener pocket 232 (e.g., and spread outwards). As such, in the first configuration, the first leg support 151 and the second leg support 153 define first wide position leg support outer portion 156 and a second wide position leg support outer portion 157 such that the seat support portion 150 is wider than when the child carrier 100 is in the second configuration.

[0062] In still other embodiments, the waist belt 200 may have one or more fasteners disposed on the waist belt 200 (e.g., within the narrow position fastener pocket 250) configured to receive and engage with the first leg support fastener 152 and the second leg support fastener 154 respectively. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B however, the need for additional fasteners is precluded by the corresponding nature of the first leg support fastener 152, the second leg support fastener 154, the first wide position fastener 202, and the second wide position fastener 212 (i.e., their corresponding nature with respect to fastener type.

[0063] Although various embodiments are described as having various fasteners disposed within pockets, it should be understood that, in other embodiments, the fasteners may be disposed out of pockets (e.g., when coupled to any suitable other corresponding fastener described herein.

[0064] In any embodiment described herein, any fastener may include any suitable fastener such as, for example: (1) a buckle; (2) a snap; (3) a hook and/or loop fastener; (4) at least a portion of a zipper; (5) a clip; (6) a tying mechanism; (7) one or more magnets; and/or (8) any other suitable type of fastener such that a corresponding pair of fasteners can fasten with sufficient strength (e.g., tensile strength) to maintain the fasteners in a fastened position while the child 10 is supported in the child carrier 100 in the first configuration. In various embodiments, the fasteners may include any suitable pair of fasteners (e.g., corresponding fasteners) that enable a user to engage and disengage the pair of fasteners with relative ease (i.e., without applying an undue amount of force to disengage the fasteners). In particular embodiments, the corresponding fasteners may include any pair of fasteners configured to at least temporarily engage (i.e., mate with) one another, while still enabling a decoupling of the pair of corresponding fasteners (e.g., such that the corresponding fasteners are not substantially permanently mated once engaged). In various embodiments, a substantially permanent mating of the corresponding fasteners may, for example, prevent an ability of the individual 5 to alternate the child carrier 100 between the first and second configurations described herein.

Exemplary Carrier Use

[0065] FIGS. 11A-11C depict an exemplary process for enabling an individual 5 to wear the child carrier 100 in order to support a child 10 therein. As may be understood from FIG. 11A, an individual 5 may initially wrap the waist belt 200 around their waist, such that the waist belt inner face 201 of the waist belt 200 is against their waist with the remainder of the child carrier 100 (e.g., the first shoulder strap 102, the second shoulder strap 112, and the torso support portion 140) hanging downward (e.g., hanging freely) in front of the 5, with the torso support portion outer portion 142 facing temporarily toward the individual 5. The individual 5 may then engage the second waist fastener 218 with the first waist fastener 208 in order to secure the child carrier 100 (e.g., the waist belt 200) around their waist (e.g., adjusting a length of the second waist belt strap 216 in order to tighten the waist belt 200 around their waist). The individual 5 may then determine whether to carry the child 10 in the first configuration or the second configuration (i.e., by adjusting a respective position of the second leg support 153 and the first leg support 151 (i.e., the second seat support leg position adjusting strap 163 and the first seat support leg position adjusting strap 161). FIG. 11B depicts the child carrier 100 as would be seen while the individual 5 is wearing the child carrier 100 with the waist belt 200 secured around their waist (i.e., with the first shoulder strap 102, second shoulder strap 112, and torso support portion 140 hanging downward). The individual 5 may then lift the second shoulder strap 112 and the first shoulder strap 102 over their shoulders such that the torso support portion inner portion 144 is substantially in front of their chest (e.g., against their chest) securing the second shoulder strap 112 and the first shoulder strap 102 with the first shoulder strap fastener 148 and the second shoulder strap fastener 149. FIG. 11C depicts the child carrier 100 with the shoulder straps secured. The individual 5 may then place the child 10 in the child carrier 100 in the desired orientation (e.g., a wide leg position/the first configuration as shown in FIG. 1) and tighten the various straps of the child carrier 100 as necessary to safely secure the child 10.

[0066] In particular embodiments, a child carrier 100 may enable carrying a child 10 various positions including on the back, on the hip, or in front of an individual 5. In various configurations, the child carrier 100 may support the upper legs (e.g., thighs) of the child 10 substantially perpendicular (e.g., perpendicular) to the body of the 10. In still other configurations, the child carrier 100 may support the thighs (e.g., upper leg portion) of the child 10 105 substantially parallel (e.g., parallel) to the body of the child 10 (e.g., such that the legs of the child 10 hang substantially freely while the child carrier 100 supports the bottom of the 10. In some aspects, depending on the size and weight of the 10, the individual 5 may find it more comfortable to carry the chi 10 in the child carrier 100 in one of these configurations as opposed to the others. In other aspects, the child 10 may be more comfortable in one of these configurations than in the others (e.g., due to the age of the child, activity level of the child, condition of the child, etc.).

Conclusion

[0067] Many modifications and other embodiments of the disclosure will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. For example, as will be understood by one skilled in the relevant field in light of this disclosure, the embodiments may take form in a variety of different mechanical and operational configurations. Therefore, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, and that the modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended exemplary concepts. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for the purposes of limitation.