PLAYARD ASSEMBLY INCLUDING PLAYARD AND TOPPER ASSEMBLY WITH CORNER CONNECTOR INTERFACE

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed to a playard assembly and is also directed to a topper assembly. The topper assembly includes connectors in corner regions of the topper assembly that are configured to engage with connectors defined in corner regions of the playard. Actuators for controlling the engagement between the respective connectors are provided along lateral portions of frame members of the topper assembly. Mating magnetic elements can also be provided in the connectors of the topper assembly and playard assembly.

Claims

1. A playard assembly comprising: a playard having at least one playard connector at least partially defined at a playard corner region; a topper assembly having at least one topper connector at least partially defined at a topper corner region; and at least one actuator configured to selectively control engagement between the at least one topper connector and the at least one playard connector.

2. The playard assembly according to claim 1, wherein the topper assembly comprises: a first rim; a second rim; and at least one frame connector configured to connect the first rim and the second rim.

3. The playard assembly according to claim 2, wherein the first rim consists of two first frame halves, and the second rim consists of two second frame halves.

4. The playard assembly according to claim 2, wherein the first rim and the second rim each have a quadrilateral profile including two lateral rim portions and two longitudinal rim portions, and at least one actuator is arranged on at least one of the two lateral rim portions.

5. The playard assembly according to claim 1, wherein the at least one actuator includes at least one driven actuator member attached to at least one actuator arm, wherein the at least one actuator arm is configured to engage with the at least one playard connector of the playard.

6. The playard assembly according to claim 5, wherein the at least one actuator arm is configured to move into and out of engagement with a retention element on the at least one playard connector.

7. The playard assembly according to claim 6, wherein the retention element comprises a spring-loaded tab.

8. The playard assembly according to claim 5, wherein the at least one actuator arm is housed within a rim of the topper assembly.

9. The playard assembly according to claim 1, wherein the at least one actuator includes at least one driven actuator member attached to at least one actuator wire.

10. The playard assembly according to claim 9, wherein the at least one driven actuator member is attached to one end of the at least one actuator wire, and the at least one driven actuator member is configured to engage with a biasing element such that the at least one driven actuator member is driven into engagement with the at least one playard connector of the playard.

11. The playard assembly according to claim 10, wherein engagement of the at least one actuator is configured to pull the at least one actuator wire such that the at least one driven actuator member is driven inward against the biasing element and the at least one driven actuator member disengages from the at least one playard connector of the playard.

12. The playard assembly according to claim 1, wherein the at least one actuator is configured to selectively disengage two driven actuator members from two respective playard connectors of the playard.

13. The playard assembly according to claim 1, wherein the at least one playard connector includes at least one first magnetic element, and the at least one topper connector includes at least one second magnetic element, and the at least one first magnetic element and the at least one second magnetic element are configured to be attracted to each other.

14. The playard assembly according to claim 1, wherein the playard comprises at least one corner post, and the at least one playard connector is positioned at an end of the at least one corner post.

15. The playard assembly according to claim 14, further comprising at least one slider slidably connected to the at least one corner post.

16. The playard assembly according to claim 15, wherein the at least one slider includes a bushing, wherein the bushing comprises polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

17. The playard assembly according to claim 2, wherein the at least one actuator is supported at least partially by the frame connector.

18. The playard assembly according to claim 17, wherein the at least one actuator is supported at least partially in a recess of the frame connector.

19. The playard assembly according to claim 18, wherein the at least one actuator is movable in a vertical direction within the recess to disengage the at least one topper connector and the at least one playard connector.

20. The playard assembly according to claim 19, wherein the at least one actuator is movable downwardly to disengage the at least one topper connector and the at least one playard connector.

21. The playard assembly according to claim 1, wherein the at least one actuator is configured to selectively control engagement between at least two topper connectors and at least two playard connectors.

22. The playard assembly according to claim 21, wherein the at least one actuator includes two actuators.

23. The playard assembly according to claim 22, wherein the topper assembly includes a first frame and a second frame, and wherein the two actuators are defined along lateral sides of the first and second frames.

24. The playard assembly according to claim 21, wherein the at least two playard connectors each include a first magnetic element, and the at least two topper connectors each include a second magnetic element, wherein the first and second magnetic elements are configured to align the at least two playard connectors and the at least two topper connectors.

25. A topper assembly configured to be selectively attached to a playard, the topper assembly comprising: a first frame and a second frame; a first frame connector and a second frame connector each connecting the first frame and the second frame; a plurality of topper connectors each configured to be selectively engaged with the playard; and a first actuator and a second actuator each arranged on the second frame, wherein the first and second actuators are each configured to control engagement of the plurality of topper connectors with the playard.

26. The topper assembly according to claim 25, wherein the first actuator and the second actuator are each at a respective one of the first frame connector and the second frame connector.

27. The topper assembly according to claim 25, wherein the first frame and the second frame each include two lateral sides and two longitudinal sides that are longer than the two lateral sides, wherein the first and second actuators are each arranged on a respective one of the two lateral sides.

28. The topper assembly according to claim 25, wherein the plurality of topper connectors each include at least one magnetic element configured to engage with a corresponding magnetic element on the playard.

29. A topper assembly configured to be selectively attached to a playard, the topper assembly comprising: a first frame and a second frame; a first frame connector and a second frame connector each connecting the first frame and the second frame; a plurality of topper connectors each configured to be selectively engaged with the playard; and a first actuator and a second actuator each arranged on the second frame, wherein the first and second actuators are each configured to control engagement of the plurality of topper connectors with the playard; wherein the first actuator and the second actuator are configured to be pressed in a downward direction to disengage the plurality of topper connectors from the playard.

30. The topper assembly according to claim 29, wherein the first actuator and the second actuator are each at a respective one of the first frame connector and the second frame connector.

31. The topper assembly according to claim 29, wherein the first frame and the second frame each include two lateral sides and two longitudinal sides that are longer than the two lateral sides, wherein the first and second actuators are each arranged on a respective one of the two lateral sides.

32. A playard assembly configured to be selectively attached to a topper assembly, the playard assembly comprising: a plurality of corner posts; a plurality of playard connectors each arranged on a respective one of the plurality of corner posts; a plurality of sliding supports each arranged on a respective one of the plurality of corner posts and configured to slide up and down relative to the respective one of the plurality of corner posts; and a plurality of X-frame assemblies each extending between a respective pair of the plurality of corner posts and coupled to one of the plurality of playard connectors and one of the plurality of sliding supports on each corner post; whereby movement of the plurality of sliding supports towards the plurality of playard connectors along the corner posts expands the playard assembly, and movement of the plurality of sliding supports away from the plurality of playard connectors along the corner posts collapses the playard assembly.

33. The playard assembly according to claim 32, wherein at least one of the playard connectors and at least one of the sliding supports are releasably couplable to each other to maintain the playard assembly in an expanded state.

34. The playard assembly according to claim 33, wherein the at least one of the playard connectors and at least one of the sliding supports that are releasably couplable to each other include cooperating coupling components.

35. The playard assembly according to claim 34, wherein the cooperating coupling components include a latch associated with the playard connector and a catch associated with the sliding support, the latch and catch configured to engage each other to restrict the sliding support from moving away from the playard connector.

36. The playard assembly according to claim 35, wherein the latch includes an actuator for disengaging the latch from the catch.

37. The playard assembly according to claim 36, wherein the latch is biased to an engaged position.

38. A topper assembly configured to be selectively attached to a playard, the topper assembly comprising: a frame; a topper base supported by the frame, the topper base including a first surface and an opposing second surface; and at least one topper connector configured to be selectively engaged with the playard; wherein the frame is connectable to the playard via the at least one topper connector in a first configuration, in which the first surface faces in an upward direction, and a second configuration, in which the second surface faces in the upward direction.

39. The topper assembly of claim 38, further comprising: an actuator arranged on the frame, the actuator being configured to be pressed in a downward direction to disengage the at least one topper connector from the playard.

40. The topper assembly of claim 38, wherein the at least one topper connector comprises a plurality of topper connectors each at least partially defined at a respective topper corner region, each of the plurality of topper connectors being positioned to engage with a respective playard connector defined at a playard corner region.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The foregoing Summary and the following Detailed Description will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings, which illustrate a preferred embodiment of the disclosure. In the drawings:

[0013] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a playard assembly according to one example.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the playard assembly.

[0015] FIG. 3 is a magnified top view of a corner region of the playard assembly in a fully attached or connected state.

[0016] FIG. 4 is a magnified top view of a corner region of the playard assembly in a detached or disconnected state.

[0017] FIG. 5 is a side edge view of the corner region of a topper assembly for the playard assembly.

[0018] FIG. 6 is a side view of the playard assembly with a frame in a partially exposed state.

[0019] FIG. 7A is a side perspective view of the playard assembly with the topper assembly in a first state.

[0020] FIG. 7B is a side perspective view of the playard assembly with the topper assembly in a second state.

[0021] FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of the topper assembly.

[0022] FIG. 9 is a magnified view of an interior of a playard connector.

[0023] FIG. 10A is a perspective view of the playard frame in a folded state.

[0024] FIG. 10B is a perspective view of the playard frame in a folded state and arranged within the topper assembly.

[0025] FIGS. 11A-11C are magnified top perspective views of various states of use for another example of a connection interface between the topper assembly and the playard frame.

[0026] FIG. 12A is an exterior magnified perspective view of a playard frame according to one example.

[0027] FIG. 12B is an interior magnified perspective view of the playard frame of FIG. 12A.

[0028] FIG. 13A is an exterior magnified perspective view of the playard frame of FIGS. 12A and 12B engaged with a topper assembly.

[0029] FIG. 13B is an exterior magnified perspective view of the playard frame of FIGS. 12A and 12B disengaged from the topper assembly.

[0030] FIG. 14 is a top magnified perspective view of the playard frame of FIGS. 12A and 12B.

[0031] FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of the playard connector for the playard frame of FIGS. 12A and 12B.

[0032] FIG. 16A is a side perspective view of a topper assembly according to another example.

[0033] FIG. 16B is an end perspective view of the topper assembly of FIG. 16A.

[0034] FIG. 17A is a perspective view of a topper assembly according to another example.

[0035] FIG. 17B is a magnified view of a corner frame connector of the topper assembly of FIG. 17A in an assembled state.

[0036] FIG. 17C is a magnified view of the corner frame connector of the topper assembly of FIG. 17A in an unassembled state.

[0037] FIG. 18 illustrates a perspective view of a playard and topper assembly according to another example.

[0038] FIG. 19A illustrates a perspective view of the topper assembly of FIG. 18.

[0039] FIG. 19B illustrates a magnified perspective view of one corner of the topper assembly of FIG. 19A.

[0040] FIG. 20A is a cutaway perspective view of the corner of the topper assembly in a first state.

[0041] FIG. 20B is a cutaway perspective view of a corner of the playard assembly in a second state.

[0042] FIG. 20C is a top cutaway view of one side of the topper and playard assembly.

[0043] FIG. 21 is a cutaway perspective view of a corner of a frame assembly.

[0044] FIG. 22A is a top cutaway view of one side of a topper and playard assembly according to another aspect.

[0045] FIG. 22B is a cutaway perspective view of a corner of the topper and playard assembly of FIG. 22A.

[0046] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a playard assembly according to another example.

[0047] FIG. 24 is a magnified view of a portion of FIG. 23 showing a playard connector and sliding support of the playard assembly.

[0048] FIG. 25 is a similar view to FIG. 24 with a portion of a playard connector removed to expose otherwise concealed features.

[0049] FIG. 26 is a magnified view of a portion of FIG. 23 showing a frame connector and an actuator of the playard assembly.

[0050] FIG. 27 is a similar view to FIG. 26 with a portion of the frame connector removed to expose otherwise concealed features.

[0051] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a topper connector.

[0052] FIG. 29 is an exploded view of the topper connector of FIG. 28.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] Certain terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and is not limiting. The words front, rear, upper and lower designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made. The words inwardly and outwardly refer to directions toward and away from the parts referenced in the drawings. A reference to a list of items that are cited as at least one of a, b, or c (where a, b, and c represent the items being listed) means any single one of the items a, b, or c, or combinations thereof. This terminology includes the words specifically noted above, derivatives thereof and words of similar import.

[0054] As shown in FIGS. 1-8, a playard assembly 10 is disclosed herein that generally can include a playard 20 and a topper assembly 40. The present disclosure generally provides an improved connection interface between the playard 20 and the topper assembly 40. As used in this context, the term connection interface refers to an interface between the two relevant components that can reliable connect or attach the two components with one another, that also allows for selective disengagement or detachment.

[0055] Additionally, the present disclosure provides a topper assembly 40, which can be used with a variety of playards, and is configured to provide connectors to the playard 20 in corner regions of the topper assembly 40. This allows the topper assembly 40 to connect to playard frames with varying configurations in which a smooth, continuous, or uninterrupted upper connection area may not be available, such as in playards having X-frame assemblies as cross supports between the associated vertical supports or legs.

[0056] The playard 20, which is shown in detail in FIGS. 1 and 6, can include a frame 22, also referred to as a playard frame. The frame 22 can include various sub-components, such as tubes, supports, rods, poles, etc. The frame 22 can include a plurality of corner posts 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d, which are also referred to as legs or vertical supports. While four corner posts 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d are shown in the Figures, one of ordinary skill in the art would understand that in other configurations, additional or fewer corner posts can be provided. For example, the features disclosed herein can be adapted for a hexagon shaped playard, which would include six corner posts. Additionally, vertical supports or legs can be provided at intermediate areas between the corner posts for additional support.

[0057] The playard 20 can comprise a plurality of X-frame assemblies 27 which are each connected at a first end 27a to a first one of the corner posts 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d and at a second end 27b to a second one of the corner posts 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d. As shown in FIG. 6, the X-frame assembly 27 can include more than one X shaped support between adjacent corner posts 24a, 24b. Although only one X-frame assembly 27 is visible in FIG. 6, one of ordinary skill in the art would understand that each side of the frame includes an X-frame assembly. Various configurations of the X-frame assemblies 27 can be used, as one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate based on this disclosure. Cross supports having an X-frame configuration are desirable in playards due to the ability for the X-frame assemblies to fold. As shown in FIG. 6, a top surface area (A) of the X-frame assembly 27 lacks a smooth upper edge or portion, which necessitates that the topper assembly 40 attaches to the playard 20 in regions away from the X-frame assemblies.

[0058] The playard 20 further comprises at least one playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d that is configured to engage with at least one topper connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d defined on the topper assembly 40. The at least one playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d can be connected to at least one of the plurality of corner posts 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d. The at least one playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d can be defined as a cap or shell that attaches to the corner posts 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d. The at least one playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d can be integrally defined with a respective one of the plurality of corner posts 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d in another example.

[0059] The topper assembly 40 comprises at least one topper connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d configured to mate with the at least one playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d to secure the topper assembly 40 with the playard 20. As used in this context, the term mate means to engage with each other, such as via a snap fit or clearance fit, in one example. In one example, the topper connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d is a male type connector and the playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d is a female type connector. One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize based on this disclosure that this arrangement could be reversed such that the topper connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d is a female type connector and the playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d is a male type connector. This specific configuration is illustrated in FIGS. 12A-15, which are discussed in more detail herein. Based on the configuration disclosed herein, the topper assembly 40 is configured to be attached to the playard 20 on a flat plane defined by the upper ends of the corner posts 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d.

[0060] The playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d is at least partially defined at a playard corner region 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d, and the topper connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d is at least partially defined at a topper corner region 41a, 41b, 41c, 41d. As used in this context, the term corner region means a region that is at least partially defined at an intersection of two sides or edges which form an angle with each other. For example, with respect to the playard 20, the playard corner region 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d is defined at the intersection of two cross supports forming an angle, i.e. the intersection of two X-frame assemblies. With respect to the topper assembly 40, the topper corner region 41a, 41b, 41c, 41d can be defined at the intersection of two support frames 50a, 50b of a topper frame 50, as shown in FIG. 5. As also shown in FIG. 5, the topper frame 50 is coplanar with the topper connector 45a and the engagement element 46. No additional frame members, tubes, or other structures are required on the topper assembly 40 to define the connector interface with the playard 20.

[0061] The playard 20 can further comprise a soft goods assembly 28 that is configured to attach to the frame 22. The soft goods assembly 28 can comprise at least one opening 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d and the at least one playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c 25d can be configured to extend out of or above the at least one opening 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d. In one example, the soft goods assembly 28 can include four openings 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d. The openings 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d can be defined at a corner edge of the soft goods assembly 28. For example, the openings 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d can be defined in an upper region of corner seams of the soft goods assembly 28.

[0062] The soft goods assembly 28 can define a continuous perimeter, and a portion of the soft goods assembly 28 can be configured to extend uninterrupted around an upper portion of an outer perimeter of the playard 20 as well as an inner perimeter of the playard 20. For example, an upper portion 29a of the soft goods assembly 28 can wrap over an upper portion of the frame 22 (including the X-frame assemblies), and a lower portion 29b of the soft goods assembly 28 can hang inside of the interior space defined by the frame 22. The upper portion 29b can be formed from a reinforced, durable material, such as nylon, while the lower portion 29b can be formed from a mesh fabric or other material. As shown in the Figures, when the soft goods assembly 28 is attached to the playard 20, the X-frame assemblies are hidden and not visible, and only the playard connectors 25a, 25b, 25c 25d are visible along a top surface of the playard assembly 10. The soft goods assembly 28 can also wrap around an outer surface of an upper region of each of the corner posts 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d.

[0063] The playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d and the topper connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d can be embodied according to any number of shapes, configurations, profiles, etc. In one example, the playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d includes a receptacle 26, which is shown according to one exemplary configuration in FIG. 9. The receptacle 26 can be arranged such that it faces inward to an interior space or area defined by the playard 20. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the orientation of the receptacle 26 can vary. The receptacle 26 can be formed as a pocket or other structure configured to receive and selectively retain another component, i.e. a portion of the topper connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d. The receptacle 26 can have a generally complementary profile to a portion of the topper connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d. In one example, the receptacle 26 can include a pocket with an upper lip, shoulder, or edge 26a that is configured to temporarily engage with a portion of the topper connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d during an attachment or connection phase. A bottom portion of the receptacle 26 can also include a bottom support 26b on which the topper assembly 40 is configured to rest or abut when attached to the playard 20. Side portions, such as guide portions 26c, 26d can also be provided within the receptacle 26 which ensure that the topper connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d remains in the correct position within the playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d. While a specific geometry of the receptacle 26 is shown in FIG. 9, one of ordinary skill in the art would understand this geometry can be modified. Additionally, in one example, the receptacle 26 could instead be a protrusion, and a receptacle could instead be provided on the topper connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d.

[0064] The topper connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d can include an engagement element 46 that is configured to selectively engage with the at least one playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, such as inside of the receptacle 26. The engagement element 46 can snap into position to be retained within the receptacle 26, in one example. The engagement element 46 can be formed as protrusion, prong, or other structure extending outwardly from a remainder of the topper connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d. The engagement element 46 can be configured to be biased to a first position via a biasing element (such as a spring), which can be provided internally with respect to the structure of the topper connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d. In one example, the engagement element 46 can be a spring-loaded connector. The engagement element 46 can be configured to be pushed or driven away from the first position to a second position via engagement with a portion of the playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, such as a lip, shoulder, edge or other structure (i.e. edge 26a) defined within the receptacle 26. For example, a user can press or push the topper assembly 40 in a downward direction with respect to the playard 20 such that the engagement element 46 flexes or is temporarily displaced as the engagement element 46 temporarily contacts the playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d (i.e. the edge 26a). Once the engagement element 46 clears or is displaced beyond a portion of the playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, then the engagement element 46 returns to its initial position and is configured to retain the topper assembly 40 relative to the playard 20. In this attached or connected state, a portion of the topper assembly 40 is configured to be supported in the vertical direction by at least a portion of the playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, and more specifically by the bottom support 26b.

[0065] When a user wishes to disconnect the topper assembly 40 from the playard 20, the user presses a portion of the engagement element 46 to flex or temporarily displace the engagement element 46 to the second position such that the engagement element 46 is disengaged from the playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d. For example, the engagement element 46 can be flexed such that the engagement element 46 is shifted away from a lip, should or other retention element formed on the playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d. The receptacle 26 of the playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d can be dimensioned such that upward flexing of the engagement element 46 can occur when a user wishes to disconnect the topper assembly 40 from the playard 20. In one example, a user needs to only engage a single one of the engagement elements 46 in order to release or detach the topper assembly 40 from the playard 20. Once the single engagement element 46 is released from a corresponding receptacle 26, then the entire topper assembly 40 can be maneuvered (i.e., angled, slid, etc.) such that the remaining engagement elements 46 slide out of the other receptacles 26.

[0066] In order to connect the topper assembly 40 to the playard 20, in one example, the engagement element 46 can be configured to be temporarily flexed or driven to the second position by pressing the topper assembly 40 downward relative to the playard 20. Accordingly, a user does not have to manually press the engagement element 46 itself when attaching the topper assembly 40 to the playard 20, and instead the attachment process or step only requires a user to press the topper assembly 40 downward relative to the playard 20 with the topper connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d aligned with the playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d.

[0067] The engagement element 46 can include an actuation region 47 configured to be engaged by a user. The actuation region 47 can be defined as a button, ridge, lip, or ledge, for example. Engagement with the actuation region 47 can flex or pivot the engagement element 46, thereby allowing the topper assembly 40 to be released from the playard 20.

[0068] As shown in FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 8, the topper assembly 40 can comprise a topper base 52, which generally defines a support surface for a child. The topper base 52 can have a first side 53a defining a changing area, and a second side 53b defining a bassinet area. The topper assembly 40 can be configured to be completely detached relative to the playard 20. The topper assembly 40 can be configured to be connected to the playard 20 in both: (i) a changing mode in which the first side 53a is upwards facing (shown in FIG. 7A), and (ii) a bassinet mode in which the second side 53b is upward facing (shown in FIG. 7B). In the bassinet mode shown in FIG. 7B, the topper base 52 is in a relatively lower vertical position such that sidewalls of the topper assembly 40 are deeper to define a space for reliably and safely holding a child. In the changing mode shown in FIG. 7A, the topper base 52 is in a relatively higher vertical position that is more suitable for a user to change a child's diaper or garments. In this way, the topper assembly 40 can be considered to be a reversible topper assembly 40 which can be manually installed or connected to the playard 20 in various modes or states. The topper assembly 40 thereby eliminates the need for multiple topper assemblies each having different modes or configurations.

[0069] The topper connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d can be exposed in both the changing mode and the bassinet mode. This provides for easier access for a user to manually disengage the engagement elements 46 relative to the playard connectors 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d. Additionally, the interface between the playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d and the topper connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d remains accessible to a user regardless of the mode of use, and is not covered, for example, by the soft goods assembly 28.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 8, the topper assembly 40 can include a topper frame 50 including the topper connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d. The topper frame 50 can comprise at least one rod or frame member that defines an outer perimeter of the topper assembly 40. The topper frame 50 can include four rods each extending between the topper connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d, in one example.

[0071] The topper assembly 40 can include a topper support 54 attached to the topper frame 50. The topper support 54 can include a semi-rigid frame or plate structure. The topper support 54 can be configured to bend or flex under a predetermined amount of force or pressure, but is otherwise configured to be rigid and either extend upward (i.e. in the changing mode) or downward (i.e. in the bassinet mode) relative to the topper frame 50 depending on the orientation of the topper assembly 40. The topper support 54 can be formed from plastic, in one example. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that various materials could be used for the topper support 54.

[0072] The topper assembly 40 can further comprise a topper coupling 56, which can be a fabric connector, that is attached to the topper base 52 on one end and the topper support 54 on another end. The topper coupling 56 can be formed from a mesh material, in one example. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that various materials could be used for the topper coupling 56.

[0073] The topper connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d can be positioned on an outer perimeter of the topper assembly 40 and spaced away from the topper base 52 (i.e. where a child is supported) by at least the topper coupling 56 and the topper support 54. This provides a safety feature in that the child is physically separated from the topper connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d to prevent an inadvertent actuation of the engagement element 46. An additional safety aspect is provided based on the topper assembly 40 resting downward against the playard 20. Removal of the topper assembly 40 from the playard 20 requires an upward force, which is prevented both due to a child being supported within the topper assembly 40, as well as the engagement element 46 requiring manual actuation to release the topper assembly 40 from the playard 20.

[0074] The topper assembly 40 also provides a more intuitive and uniform arrangement for attaching the assembly 40 to the playard 20 as compared to other attachment means. All of the topper connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d are rigidly supported with each other via the topper frame 50, thereby ensuring that all of the topper connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d generally move in unison. This is desirable for users in order to provide a simplified attachment or connection interface, as compared to other arrangements that may require users to attach individual straps or hooks from the topper to the playard frame. This also provides a safety feature based on all of the topper connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d being rigidly linked and therefore each of the topper connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d will be automatically positioned adjacent to a respective one of the playard connectors 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d during installation, as opposed to having connectors on different straps or other non-rigid supports.

[0075] As disclosed herein, a connection interface between a topper assembly 40 and a playard 20 is provided in which the only connections between the topper assembly 40 and the playard 20 are provided at corner regions of each of the respective components. In one example, there is no additional support or interface, i.e. intermediate supports or connectors, provided at the regions between the corners of the topper assembly 40 and the playard 20.

[0076] As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the playard 20 is foldable and in a folded state, the playard 20 can fit within a perimeter defined by the topper assembly 40. While the topper assembly 40 is shown in an assembled state in FIG. 10B, one of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the topper assembly 40 can also be folded. This arrangement allows for a user to compactly fold and pack the entire playard assembly 10 for traveling or storage.

[0077] In another example, shown in FIGS. 11A-11C, the topper assembly 140 can include at least one topper connector 145a including an engagement element 146 with an actuator 147. The actuator 147 can be a push-button actuator and can include a button that is configured to be compressed or otherwise engaged such that the engagement element 146 is selectively displaced, retracted, moved, pivoted, or flexed. All other details of the topper assembly 140 are identical to the topper assembly 40, and the connection to the playard 20 is the same. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that various configurations for the engagement element can be implemented.

[0078] FIGS. 12A, 12B, 13A, 13B, 14, and 15 illustrate another example for a playard assembly 210 in which a receptacle (i.e. a female-type connector) is defined on corner regions of the topper assembly 240 and an engagement element (i.e. a male-type connector) is defined on corner regions of the playard 220. The general function and operation of the playard assembly 210 is otherwise be identical to the playard assembly 10, unless specific features are further defined herein.

[0079] As shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, a playard connector 225 can be provided that includes an engagement element 226 generally configured to engage with the topper assembly 240 to retain or connect the topper assembly 240 with the playard 220. The playard connector 225 is defined at a corner region 221 of the playard 220. An actuation region 226a can be provided on the playard connector 225 that is configured to be manually engaged to move, displace, pivot, flex, or otherwise drive the engagement element 226 from one position (i.e. in which the engagement element 226 is retained within a receptacle on the topper assembly) to another position (in which the engagement element 226 is driven out of the receptacle on the topper assembly). The actuation region 226a can be configured to be pushed, pulled, slid, shifted, or otherwise engaged to move the engagement element 226.

[0080] As shown in FIG. 12B, a bottom support 226b can also be defined by the playard connector 225 which can define a resting surface or abutment surface for the topper assembly 240. Although only one playard connector 225 is shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, one of ordinary skill in the art would understand that multiple playard connectors can be provided on the playard 220.

[0081] As shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, the topper assembly 240 can include a topper connector 245 which can be defined at a corner region 241 of the topper assembly 240. The topper connector 245 can define a receptacle 246 dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the engagement element 226 of the playard connector 225. The topper assembly 240 can include a plurality of topper connectors 245, each defined on a respective corner region of the topper assembly 240.

[0082] FIG. 14 illustrates further aspects of the interface between the topper assembly 240 and the playard 220. As shown in FIG. 14, the playard connector 225 can be defined as a housing or structure above a corner post 224 of the playard 220. The corner post 224 can define pivots (P) for the X-frame assemblies 227, which are shown in more detail in FIG. 14.

[0083] FIG. 15 illustrates additional aspects of the playard connector 225. As shown in FIG. 15, the playard connector 225 can be comprised of multiple housing or structural elements. The playard connector 225 can include a first housing 230 that is configured to attach to a remainder of the playard 220. For example, the first housing 230 can be configured to attach or connect to a corner post 224, leg, or other structure. The first housing 230 can define pivot connection regions for the X-frame assemblies 227. The first housing 230 can define a cavity 230a that is configured to receive a portion of a second housing 231. The first housing 230 can also define a support surface 230b for engagement with a biasing element 235, which can be spring in one example. The biasing element 235 can bias the engagement element 226 in an inward direction toward the receptacle 246 of the topper assembly 240 when the topper assembly 240 is connected to the playard 20. The soft goods assembly can be configured to wrap around or be positioned over the first housing 230, in one example. The configuration of the playard connector 225 shown in detail in FIG. 15 can also be the same configuration for the playard connector 25. The playard connector 25 can also include at least two housing components that mate with each other.

[0084] The second housing 231 can be configured to mate with or engage with the first housing 230. In one example, the second housing 231 defines a protrusion 231a that is configured to be received within the cavity 230a of the first housing 230. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the first housing 230 could instead define a protrusion and the second housing 231 could instead define a receptacle to receive the protrusion. The second housing 231 also defines a receiving area 231b configured to house or support at least a portion of the engagement element 226. The engagement element 226 can be supported within the receiving area 231b via a pivoting connection, in one example.

[0085] In one example, the soft goods assembly is configured to be positioned or wrapped around and over the first housing 230. The soft goods assembly can be secured between the first housing 230 and the second housing 231, in one example. This manner of attaching the soft goods assembly ensures that the soft goods assembly is captively secured between a mating interface of the first housing 230 and the second housing 231. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that various connections between the soft goods assembly and the playard connector 225 can be used.

[0086] In one configuration, the topper assembly 40 can include a tubular structure (i.e. topper frame 50 and support frames 50a, 50b), as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7A, 7B, 8, 9, 13A, 13B, and 14. In another configuration, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 10B, the topper assembly 140 can instead include side supports 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d that can be formed from polyurethane boards and which can be laminated relative to a topper soft goods 51. The topper assembly 140 of FIGS. 6 and 10B can also include the engagement element 146 and actuator 147 shown in more detail in FIGS. 11A-11C. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the construction of the topper assembly can vary.

[0087] As shown in the Figures, the topper assembly 40 can have a size or profile that is configured to entirely fill an interior perimeter defined by the playard 20. This is desirable such that each corner post 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d of the playard 20 can be utilized to serve as a connection region for the topper assembly 40. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the dimensions of the topper assembly 40 could vary.

[0088] As shown in FIGS. 16A, 16B, 17A, 17B, and 17C, the topper assembly can have varying configurations and structures. For example, in FIGS. 16A and 16B, the topper assembly 340 can include a frame structure 342. The frame structure 342 can be formed from plastic or any other material. The frame structure 342 can comprise rods, connectors, poles, or other structures generally extending between topper connectors 345 defined at the corners of the frame structure 342. The topper connectors 345 can have the same functions and features as the other topper connectors disclosed herein. In one example, the frame structure 342 can include a first frame 342a and a second frame 342b along each side of the frame structure 342. The first and second frames 342a, 342b can be stacked on top of each other and spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance or spacing. In one example, there are four sets of the first and second frames 342a, 342b. In one example, the first frames 342a are wider or thicker than the second frames 342b. A corner frame connector 344 can be provided that is connected to the topper connector 345 and defines an attachment region for at least each of the second frames 342b. The corner frame connector 344 can be defined as a plate-like structure that is curved and extends around the corner regions of the topper assembly 340. The first frames 342a can each be connected to a respective one of the topper connectors 345. The second frames 342b can each be connected to an end of the corner frame connectors 344. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the first and second frames 342a, 342b could each be attached to the corner frame connectors 344. Between the first frame 342a and the second frame 342b, an opening or window can be defined. This structure for the frame provides a lightweight configuration. Soft goods can be configured to wrap around the frame structure 342, similar to the configuration shown in FIG. 8. A topper base can be configured to generally extend between the space defined by the second frames 342b, in one example. As shown in FIG. 16B, the topper connectors 345 for the topper assembly 340 also include engagement elements 346 configured to selectively engage with a portion of the playard to retain the topper assembly 340 with the playard. The topper assembly 340 is removable from the playard and is also reversible, such that a bassinet mode and a changing area mode are provided.

[0089] As shown in FIGS. 17A-17C, another topper assembly 440 can be provided that also includes a frame structure 442. Similar to the configuration in FIGS. 16A and 16B, the topper assembly 440 can also include first frames 442a and second frames 442b arranged along each side of the topper assembly 440. Corner frame connectors 444 can be provided that are configured to attach, connect, or otherwise be linked to the first frames 442a and the second frames 442b. The corner frame connectors 444 can be formed as plate-like structures that are curved and are configured to be arranged in the corner regions of the topper assembly 440. In order to attach the frames to the corner frame connectors 444, the second frames 442b can include bent end portions that are configured to be slid into pockets or receptacles 444a defined on the corner frame connectors 444. This connection can be a press fit, clearance fit, or snap fit connection. In one example, the ends of the second frames 442b can include enlarged head portions 442b that are configured to be retained by the corner frame connectors 444. The first frames 442a likewise are configured to be retained with the corner frame connectors 444. The connection between the first frames 442a and the corner frame connectors 444 can be provided via engagement with a slot or other retaining structure 444b defined by the corner frame connectors 444. The topper connectors 445 can be configured to also be attached to the corner frame connectors 444. The topper connectors 445 can include a receptacle 446 configured to receive an engagement element or other portion of the playard to retain the topper assembly 440 with the playard.

[0090] The topper assemblies 340, 440 otherwise are similar to the topper assembly 40 and are configured to be connected or attached to a topper soft goods assembly, which can include a topper base 52 (which is reversible for a bassinet mode or changing area mode), topper coupling 56, etc. The topper assemblies 340, 440 are modular and configured to be disassembled, such that a user can remove the frames and compactly store the topper assemblies when not in use.

[0091] Referring to FIGS. 18-20C, in one example, a playard assembly 520 having a frame 522 including a plurality of corner posts 524a, 524b, 524c, 524d and a plurality of X-frame assemblies 527 can also be provided. As shown in the upper region of the frame 522, a topper assembly 540 is further provided that includes a first rim 542, which can include two frame halves 542a, 542b, and a second rim 543, which can include two frame halves 534a, 543b. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the first and second rims 542, 543 can be formed from a single unitary frame member, two frame halves, or more than two frame elements or components.

[0092] At least one frame connector 544a, 544b can be included that provides a structural connection between the first and second rims 542, 543. In one example, the frame connector 544a, 544b can include two frame connectors that are arranged on opposing sides of the first and second rims 542, 543. In one configuration, the frame connectors 544a, 544b can be arranged on the relatively shorter sides of the first and second rims 542, 543. However, one of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the frame connectors 544a, 544b could be arranged on the relatively longer sides of the first and second rims 542, 543. The topper assembly 540 can also include a topper base 552 that is configured to define a bottom support surface. Soft goods can be provided to attach the topper base 552 with the first or second rims 542, 543.

[0093] At least one topper connector 545a, 545b, 545c, 545d can be provided for connecting the topper assembly 540 to the frame 522. The at least one topper connector 545a, 545b, 545c, 545d can be configured to attach or connect to at least one playard connector 525a, 525b, 525c, 525d. Various connections can be provided between the playard connectors 525a, 525b, 525c, 525d and the topper connectors 545a, 545b, 545c, 545d.

[0094] The topper assembly 540 can include at least one actuator 547, which in one example can include a handle or paddle. The at least one actuator 547 can include two actuators 547 that are each arranged in a respective region of the frame connectors 544a, 544b. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the actuator 547 can be arranged in another position. The actuator 547 can be configured to drive or actuate a driven actuator member 548a. The driven actuator member 548a can be attached to an actuator arm 548b that extends between the actuator 547 and the driven actuator member 548a. The driven actuator member 548a can be configured to move into and out of engagement with a retention element 532 formed on the playard connectors 525a, 525b, 525c, 525d. The retention element 532 can include a protrusion, prong, or other structure that is configured to mate or engage with the driven actuator member 548a. The retention element 532 can be a spring-loaded tab or connector, in one example. The driven actuator member 548a can be configured to be selectively displaced, such as in a lateral inward direction, in one example. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that various configurations can be used such that a manual force imparted on the actuator 547 drives various elements to control engagement or disengagement with a corresponding element on the playard connectors 525a, 525b, 525c, 525d.

[0095] The actuator 547 can be arranged on the lateral rim portions of the first and second rims 542, 543 as opposed to the longitudinal rim portions of the first and second rims 542, 543. The lateral and longitudinal directions are annotated in FIG. 18.

[0096] As shown in FIG. 20C, the actuator 547 can be connected to a pair of actuator arms 548b, 548b each connected to a respective driven actuator member 548a, 548a. Pulling the actuator 547 in an upward direction can pull the driven actuator member 548a, 548a inward towards the actuator 547 such that the driven actuator member 548a, 548a disengage from a respective one of the playard connectors 525a, 525b, 525c, 525d.

[0097] As shown in FIGS. 20A and 20B, the playard connectors 525a, 525b, 525c, 525d and the topper connectors 545a, 545b, 545c, 545d can include a secondary mating feature. In one example, the playard connectors 525a, 525b, 525c, 525d can include at least one playard magnet 533, and the topper connectors 545a, 545b, 545c, 545d can include at least one topper magnet or magnetic element 549a, 549b. The topper connectors 545a, 545b, 545c, 545d can include two topper magnets or magnetic elements 549a, 549b, in one example. A first one of the two topper magnets or magnetic elements 549a, 549b can be provided on a top surface of the topper connectors 545a, 545b, 545c, 545d, and a second magnet of the two topper magnets or magnetic elements 549a, 549b can be provided on a bottom surface of the topper connectors 545a, 545b, 545c, 545d, such that the topper assembly can be used in two different configurations. The magnetic elements can aid with the alignment of the connectors, and can also provide an audible clicking noise during engagement with each other to help a user determine if a connection has been made.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 21, the frame assembly can include sliders 530a, 530b that are arranged at various interfaces between a plurality of sliding supports 531 and each of the corner posts 524a, 524b, 524c, 524d. These sliders 530a, 530b can comprise a friction reducing material. In one example, the sliders 530a, 530b can comprise polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or a Teflon material. In another example, the sliders 530a, 530b can include friction reducing coatings comprising, for example, PTFE or Teflon. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that other materials could be used. The sliders 530a, 530b, which in an example embodiment can be bushings, can be configured to improve the sliding of the sliding supports 531 up and down relative to the corner posts 524a, 524b, 524c, 524d during assembly and disassembly of the playard (i.e. the folded state shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B). Frame pivot connectors 535a and 535b can be provided that provide an interface or connection between the X-frame assemblies 527 and the playard connectors 525a, 525b, 525c, 525d and the sliding supports 531. Movement of the sliding supports 531 downwardly away from the playard connectors 525a, 525b, 525c, 525d collapses the playard assembly while movement of the sliding supports upwardly towards the playard connectors 525a, 525b, 525c, 525d expands the playard assembly.

[0099] FIGS. 22A and 22B illustrate additional aspects of an actuator assembly, which is generally similar to the actuator assembly of FIGS. 18-20C. The actuator 647 differs from the actuator 547 in that the actuator 647 is attached or connected to at least one actuator wire 648b, 648b. In an example and without limitation, the at least one actuator wire 648b, 648b can include two actuator wires. The at least one actuator wire 648b, 648b can be configured to be under tension, and when the actuator 647 is engaged (i.e. pulled, pressed, etc.), then a corresponding driven actuator member 648a, 648a can transition from a first position to a second position. As shown in FIG. 22B, a biasing element 651 can be configured to generally bias or drive the driven actuator member 648a, 648a into engagement with the playard connector 625 when the actuator 647 is not engaged. This configuration maintains the at least one actuator wire 648b, 648b under tension. The biasing element 651 can be a coil spring, in an example. Once the actuator 647 is engaged, the at least one actuator wire 648b, 648b can be configured to pull the driven actuator member 648a, 648a away from the playard connector 625 (i.e. inward relative to a middle area of the topper assembly 640) such that the topper assembly 640 can be removed or detached from the playard assembly. In an example, the driven actuator member 648a, 648a can comprise a body or housing with a receptacle for holding or retaining one end of the actuator wires 648b, 648b. The other ends of the at least one actuator wire 648b, 648b can be connected to the actuator 647. In an example, a single actuator wire is provided instead of two actuator wires 648b, 648b, and the single actuator wire extends through the actuator 647 with one end connected to a first driven actuator member 648a and a second end connected to a second driven actuator member 648a. The driven actuator member 648a, 648a can comprise a first side that is configured to engage with the biasing element 651 and a second side that is configured to engage with the playard connector 625. In an example, the playard connector 625 can comprise a pocket, receptacle, lip, or other structure for selectively retaining a portion of the driven actuator member 648a, 648a. The driven actuator member 648a, 648a can be displaceable or movable within the topper connector 645. The configuration shown in FIGS. 22A and 22B is otherwise similar to the configuration of FIGS. 18-21, and can also include magnetic elements for aiding in the alignment of the topper connector 645 with the playard connector 625, as well as sliders.

[0100] Referring to FIGS. 23-29, another example playard assembly is illustrated and identified generally by reference numeral 1520. The playard 1520 is similar in most aspects to the playard 520 and has a frame 1522 including a plurality of corner posts 1524a, 1524b, 1524c, 1524d supporting a plurality of playard connectors 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d fixed to an upper end of the corner posts 1524a, 1524b, 1524c, 1524d. A plurality of sliding supports 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d are supported for sliding movement on the corner posts 1524a, 1524b, 1524c, 1524d, and a plurality of X-frame assemblies 1527 are connected to respective playard connectors 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d and sliding supports 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d. Sliding supports 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d are supported for sliding movement on corner posts 1524a, 1524b, 1524c, 1524d between the position shown in FIG. 23 (an expanded state of the playard assembly 1520) and a position spaced apart from the playard connectors 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d (a collapsed state of the playard assembly 1520). The sliding supports 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d are connected to lower ends of respective X-frame assemblies 1527 and facilitate expanding and collapsing of the playard assembly 1520.

[0101] In this example, the sliding supports 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d are releasably securable to the playard connectors 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d to maintain the playard assembly 1520 in an expanded state. The playard connectors 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d each include a latch 1652 adapted to releasably engage a catch 1654 of a sliding support 1650 (e.g., cooperating coupling members). The catch 1654 can be a slot, recess, lip or other structure of the sliding support 1650, for example. In an example, each latch 1652 is pivotably mounted to a playard connector 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d for pivoting movement between an engaged position for releasably securing a sliding support 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d in the position shown in FIG. 24 and a disengaged position for allowing the sliding support 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d to be displaced downwardly from the position shown in FIG. 24. An actuator portion 1656 of the latch 1652 can be depressed by a user to move the latch 1652 to the disengaged position. A biasing element (not shown) generally urges the latch 1652 towards the engaged position.

[0102] As shown in the upper region of the frame 1522, a topper assembly 1540 is further provided that includes a first rim 1542, which can include two frame halves 1542a, 1542b, and a second rim 1543, which can include two frame halves 1534a, 1543b. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the first and second rims 1542, 1543 can be formed from a single unitary frame member, two frame halves, or more than two frame elements or components.

[0103] At least one frame connector 1544a, 1544b can be included that provides a structural connection between the first and second rims 1542, 1543. In one example, the frame connector 1544a, 1544b can include two frame connectors that are arranged on opposing sides of the first and second rims 1542, 1543. In one configuration, the frame connectors 1544a, 1544b can be arranged on the relatively shorter sides of the first and second rims 1542, 1543. However, one of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the frame connectors 1544a, 1544b could be arranged on the relatively longer sides of the first and second rims 1542, 1543. The topper assembly 1540 can also include a topper base 1552 that is configured to define a bottom support surface. Soft goods can be provided to attach the topper base 1552 with the first or second rims 1542, 1543.

[0104] At least one topper connector 1545a, 1545b, 1545c, 1545d can be provided for connecting the topper assembly 1540 to the frame 1522. The at least one topper connector 1545a, 1545b, 1545c, 1545d can be configured to attach or connect to at least one playard connector 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d. Various connections can be provided between the playard connectors 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d and the topper connectors 1545a, 1545b, 1545c, 1545d.

[0105] The topper assembly 1540 can include at least one actuator 1547 which differs from the actuator 647 (and related components) primarily with respect to the location and orientation of the actuator 1547. In this example, the at least one actuator 1547 is positioned on an upper side of the second rim 1543 within a recess 1548 of frame connector 1544a. The at least one actuator 1547 is oriented such that it can be depressed in a downward direction to release the topper assembly 1540 from the frame 1522. The at least one actuator 1547 generally operates to release a driven actuator member 1550 from a corresponding playard connector 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d in the manner described above in connection with actuator 647.

[0106] As shown in FIG. 29, a biasing element 1551 can be configured to generally bias or drive each driven actuator member 1550 into engagement with a playard connector 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d when the actuator 1547 is not engaged. This configuration maintains respective actuator wires 1648 that are operatively connected between the actuator 1547 and the driven actuator members 1550 under tension. The biasing element 1551 can be a coil spring, in one example. Once the actuator 1547 is engaged, each actuator wire 1648 can be configured to pull the driven actuator member 1550 away from a respective playard connector 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d (i.e. inward relative to a middle area of the topper assembly 1540) such that the topper assembly 1540 can be removed or detached from the playard assembly.

[0107] In one example, each driven actuator member 1550 can comprise a body or housing with a receptacle 1554 for holding or retaining one end of an actuator wire 1648. The other end of the actuator wire 1648 can be connected to the actuator 1547. The driven actuator member 1550 can comprise a first side that is configured to engage with the biasing element 1551 and a second side that is configured to engage with a playard connector 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d. The driven actuator member 1550 and biasing element 1551 are supported in a coupling member 1582 which is securable to the second rim 1543 via fasteners such as bolts, screws, rivets or the like. A retainer clip 1584 secures the driven actuator member 1550 and the biasing element 1551 within the coupling member 1582. A shroud 1586 encloses the coupling member 1582 and includes a slot through which the driven actuator member 1550 extends for engaging with structure of the a playard connector 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d, such as a pocket, receptacle, lip, or other structure for selectively retaining a portion of the driven actuator member 1550. It should be appreciated that the driven actuator 1550, coupling member 1582, retainer clip 1584 and shroud 1586 together generally comprise a topper connector 1545.

[0108] A method of attaching a topper assembly to a playard is also disclosed herein. The method can include providing a topper assembly including a plurality of topper connectors, which are each at least partially defined at a respective topper corner region. The method can include pressing the topper assembly downward relative to a playard such that the topper connectors engage with corresponding playard connectors that are each at least partially defined at a respective playard corner region, such that the topper assembly is attached to the playard. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that additional steps may be included for the method.

[0109] While a particular connection arrangement has been described for a topper assembly and a playard, one of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the connection interface and any of its features could be used to attach other components, such as a canopy, to a playard. Additionally, one of ordinary skill in the art would understand that other connections between the topper assembly and the playard are possible besides a clearance fit type connection. Various other connections, such as snap connectors, latches, hooks, fasteners, etc., could be used instead of the types of connectors illustrated in the Figures.

[0110] Having thus described the present embodiments in detail, it is to be appreciated and will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many physical changes, only a few of which are exemplified in the detailed description of the disclosure, could be made without altering the inventive concepts and principles embodied therein.

[0111] It is also to be appreciated that numerous embodiments incorporating only part of the preferred embodiment are possible which do not alter, with respect to those parts, the inventive concepts and principles embodied therein.

[0112] The present embodiment and optional configurations are therefore to be considered in all respects as exemplary and/or illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the disclosure being indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description, and all alternate embodiments and changes to this embodiment which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of said claims are therefore to be embraced therein.