GB2560388A

GB2560388A - Apparatus for an infant

Info

Publication number: GB2560388A
Application number: GB1703943.9A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Kanji Malvi Ghanshyam; Malvi Sarika
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2017-03-10
Filing date: 2017-03-10
Publication date: 2018-09-12
Also published as: GB201703943D0

Abstract

A wheeled cot with a mechanism to raise, lower and tilt a mattress, a power source and a plurality of monitoring devices 2 including a thermometer, audio visual means and a light to provide illumination. These devices may include a camera, a microphone, a speaker, a projector, a baby monitor and a gaming device. The mattress may be moved by a linear actuator or a stepper motor. The cot may be remotely controlled using a tablet or smartphone and may have an electronic device holder. Heating and cooling means may be provided as well as a storage area 40. The cot may walls may be formed from parallel bars.

Description

(71) Applicant(s):

Ghanshyam Kanji Malvi

Trillium Close, Hamilton, Leicester, LE5 1UQ, United Kingdom

Sarika Malvi

Trillium Close, Hamilton, Leicester, LE5 1UQ, United Kingdom (56) Documents Cited:

GB 2524794 A CN 201274923 Y US 5446934 A (58) Field of Search:

INT CLA47D

Other: EPODOC and WPI

GB 2464333 A CN 103829661 A US 20150302721 A1 (72) Inventor(s):

Ghanshyam Kanji Malvi Sarika Malvi (74) Agent and/or Address for Service:

ipconsult

21A Commercial Road, SWANAGE, Dorset, BH19 1DF, United Kingdom (54) Title of the Invention: Apparatus for an infant

Abstract Title: An adjustable cot with monitoring means (57) A wheeled cot with a mechanism to raise, lower and tilt a mattress, a power source and a plurality of monitoring devices 2 including a thermometer, audio visual means and a light to provide illumination. These devices may include a camera, a microphone, a speaker, a projector, a baby monitor and a gaming device. The mattress may be moved by a linear actuator or a stepper motor. The cot may be remotely controlled using a tablet or smartphone and may have an electronic device holder. Heating and cooling means may be provided as well as a storage area 40. The cot may walls may be formed from parallel bars.

At least one drawing originally filed was informal and the print reproduced here is taken from a later filed formal copy.

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APPARATUS FOR AN INFANT

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to apparatus for an infant, in particular apparatus for educating and entertaining an infant.

Background

Increasing awareness of importance of early education, electronic aids, and parenting time pressures are factors that coalesce in many societies.

As a result many carers or parental users may wish to utilise electronic means to aid in looking after their infants, and may find it beneficial.

Prior Art

CN 104 783 564 (LAI et al) relates to the field of beds, in particular to a multimedia electronic early education bed. The multimedia electronic early education bed comprises a bed body, a controller, a pedal musical instrument, a projector and a music bed bell. The controller is installed on the outer board face of a bed head and in independent data interaction with all control units. The pedal musical instrument is fixed on an inner side board of a bed tail and comprises a key frame, pedal musical instrument keys and a pedal musical instrument circuit which are installed on a body; the projector is fixed on the top of the bed head and comprises a projector body, a lens module with a lens and a base; the music bed bell comprises a base and a supporting rod; a battery case is arranged in the base; a control box is arranged on the top of the supporting rod; the control box is provided with a flash lamp and a horn; a bell is hung on a support. Compared with the prior art, infants have the high healthy sleeping quality, and achieve interaction through good simulation caused by light rays, sound and actions, so that growth and development of infants are promoted.

US 5 774 861 (SPECTOR) discloses a mirror and light box assembly installable in a crib or other enclosure occupied by an infant. The assembly which is interactive with the infant includes a light box on whose front face is mounted a semi-reflective mirror behind which is a film transparency having a photographic image of the infant's mother. When an electric light bulb in the box is energized to illuminate the transparency, the image of the mother becomes visible to the infant through the then effectively transparent mirror. Associated with the light box is a sound-activated switching device connected between the bulb and a power source. The switching device, when activated by crying sounds emanating from the infant, remains activated for a predetermined period to energize the bulb and illuminate the transparency. Also associated with the light box is a record playback unit having stored therein a voice message recorded by the mother addressed to her infant, the unit being rendered operative only when the bulb is energized. Hence when the infant cries, it is then presented with an image of its mother as it hears her comforting message, as a consequence of which the infant is induced to stop crying.

US 5 446 934 (FRAZIER) discloses a baby holding pen or crib which includes automatic position adjusting, monitoring, and interactive communication means, including alarms, for communicating information to and from the crib or pen from a remote location. Such means include interactive audio and visual means, such as prerecorded messages and preprogrammed tactile simulation. The crib includes a combination of a bed surface that is adjustable in both longitudinal and lateral angles; a heating an cooling means to maintain the crib area at a comfortable temperature; speakers that play back prerecorded sounds to the baby such as a recording of a mother’s soothing voice or instructions to attendants to the location of the crib; visual sensing equipment, such as video monitors, including alarms to remind an attendant of feeding time, diaper changing time, bathing time, or medicine dosage time; and a plurality of sensors, including temperature sensors, vital function sensors, and the like.

The present invention arose in order to overcome problems suffered by existing devices.

Summary of the Invention

According to the present invention there is provided containing apparatus for an infant, comprising an enclosure and a plurality of electric and/or audiovisual devices, wherein the infant is enclosed within the enclosure in use. In some embodiments the infant may be enabled to interact with at least one of the devices from within the enclosure.

In some embodiments the audiovisual devices comprise a projector, which projector is arranged to project images from another generation device for provision of images and/or audio.

Such generation device may be independently provided or available, for example comprising electronic equipment such as a mobile telephone or smartphone.

Such generation device may be included within the apparatus permanently or at retail or manufacture.

In some embodiments the devices may include at least one light source. For example in some embodiments the enclosure may be lit internally or the light source may be directed towards the exterior of the enclosure.

In some embodiments the light source may be controlled by or from an electronic device.

In some embodiments the electronic devices may be operable remotely. For example in some embodiments the devices may comprise wireless connectivity.

In some embodiments the enclosure comprises a mattress, which mattress may be used by the infant for sleeping purposes when in the enclosure.

In some embodiments the apparatus comprises an electric moving device, which electric moving device comprises a mechanism to move the mattress. For example the mattress may be arranged to move upwards and/or downwards partially or wholly.

In some embodiment the apparatus may comprise a moving mechanism, arranged to move the apparatus. For example in some embodiments the mechanism is arranged to allow the user to move the apparatus, and may comprise a plurality of wheels.

In some embodiments devices may include an interactive gaming device and for example comprising a user interface, which user interface may comprise at least one button, keypad and/or controller.

In this way the infant may be entertained by using the gaming device.

In some embodiments the apparatus may include storage. For example storage may be accessible from within or outwith the enclosure, for usage by the user or the infant.

In some embodiments the apparatus includes devices to monitor the enclosure. For example in some embodiments the monitoring devices may comprise in combination or singly a camera, a microphone, or a thermometer.

In some embodiments the devices may include a heating or cooling device. Such device may comprise an air conditioning unit

In some embodiments the apparatus is arranged to be connected to an external electrical power source. For example the apparatus may include a mains electrical connection.

In some embodiments the apparatus may comprise at least one battery. Such battery may be replaceable and/or rechargeable.

A preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the Figures in which:

Brief Description of Figures

All Figures show informal figures, subject to later formalisation or removal as appropriate.

Figure 1 shows an isometric view of a first embodiment of the apparatus;

Figure 2 shows a side view of the embodiment shown in Figure 1;

Figure 3 shows an end view of the embodiment shown in Figure 1;

Figure 4 shows a sectional view of the embodiment shown in Figure 1;

Figure 5 shows a detail Isometric view of the embodiment shown In Figure 1;

Figure 6 shows a detail view of the embodiment shown in Figure 1, namely the internal face of an end panel;

Figure 7 shows an isometric view of a second embodiment of the apparatus according to the present invention;

Figure 8 shows a sectional view of the embodiment shown in Figure 7;

Figure 9 shows a detail view of the embodiment shown in Figure 7;

Figures 10 show an end view, a view of a controller for use with, and an isometric view of the embodiment shown in Figure 7;

Figure 11 shows an isometric view of a third embodiment of the apparatus according to the present invention;

Figures 12 show a side view, an end view and an isometric detail view of the embodiment shown in Figure 11; and

Figure 13 shows an isometric sectional view of the embodiment shown in Figure 11.

Detailed Description of Figures

As shown in the Figures there are three embodiments of apparatus 1000 for an infant, comprising an enclosure 1 and a plurality of electric and/or audiovisual devices 2, wherein the infant is enclosed within the enclosure 1 in use, and enabled to interact with at least some of the devices 2 from within the enclosure 1.

The first embodiment uses a linear actuator 50 to lift and lower the mattress 49 with a frame 48 and a stepper motor to alter the mattress angle. The mattress therefore has the ability to tilt to suit direction of projection amongst else.

The linear actuator 50 is located below the mattress and at an appropriate height, leaving space for drawers 40 below. The whole structure is provided on four castor wheels 39.

The drawer storage 40 is accessible from either side of the apparatus, with varnished wood and rotational moulded end panels 38.

One end panel contains devices to monitor and entertain the child, wherein the pictured devices comprise:

Projector 46

Digital thermometer 47

Tablet / smart phone holder 44

Speakers 51

Video monitor 52

In the pictured embodiment a phone or tablet can be plugged in or wireless networked to control the devices, wherein a Bluetooth (RTM) connection allows music or films to be controlled without being in the room.

LEDs (light emitting diodes) 43 are built into the legs of the end panels, located on all four corners to provide an ambient nightlight glow for the infant as required, which light source may be linked to devices.

The embodi9ment of the apparatus is 1600mm by 780mm in plan.

The castor wheels 39 comprise integrated brakes which may be arranged to lock under downwards pressure.

The apparatus monitors the infant when the user is not in the room and can be connected to a tablet or smart phone.

Infrared LEDs active internal the enclosure (not shown) allows night-time footage to be seen.

The embodiment uses a stepper motor (not shown) and linear actuator and a scissor lift mechanism 50 to alter the mattress height and angle and allow the mattress 49 to be lifted and lowered remotely. The mechanism is fitted within the internal frame 48 to provide rigidity to the structure.

In some embodiments the mattress orientation can only be altered when the smart device such as phone or tablet is plugged in.

The second embodiment is made out of formed wood and has bars with a satin gloss plastic finish.

The lifting and tilting mechanism comprises a linear actuator 62 wherein the mattress 65 is moved using a remote control 74 that only operates when in close proximities to the mechanism which utilises a linear actuator and stepper motor, to move within a frame 63 and is capable of moving 250mm.

The devices are comprised in a system 61 clamped onto the end of the embodiment and includes all digital devices such as video monitor, thermometer and projector.

Digital thermometer 67

Electronic device holster 73

Projector 69

Internal frame

Speakers 68

Video monitor 70

In this way the embodiment may be aftermarket addition and the apparatus constructed in use.

The hinge connects the two metal frames and the internal frame provides rigidity to the lifting mechanism.

The projector 69 can be swivelled to the best angle for viewing images.

The linear actuator 62 changes the height of the mattress by 250mm and the stepper motor allows for the mattress to tilt at increments to the most suitable angle wherein the maximum angle may be limited for the health and safety of the child.

LEDs are located at either end of the embodiment (not shown) and the embodiment comprises a drawer 66, and castor wheels 71, as well as internally padding 72.

The third embodiment uses a bell crank mechanism 30 to lift, lower and tilt the mattress 31 within a frame 32.

The frame 32 encases relevant devices to monitor and entertain the child with drawer storage 23 underneath the mattress 31. As before devices may be controlled with the usage of a tablet or phone.

The embodiment comprises the following:

Base panels 22 with vertical bars 21 and drawers 23 - Formed birch wood with a clear shellac finish and drawers that are accessible from either side.

Device holder 26 - Allows a controller device, for example a tablet or phone, to plug into the apparatus to alter settings. An auxiliary cable and lightning cable are supplied to allow a device to be plugged in.

Cushion 222 - Partially covers three panels and is fixed using Velcro (RTM) wrapping around the bars 21.

LED lights 24 - At each corner of the crib

Castor wheels 25 - At each corner of the cot, each and mounted into the frame having a built in brake.

Internal frame 32 - Provides rigidity to the lifting mechanism.

Digital thermometer 27 - Displays the temperature of the room on an LCD screen. Viideo chiild monitor 28 - Allows parents to watch the child when not in the bedroom. Projector 29 - Mounted on the top face of the frame to project images on to the ceiling. Infra red LEDs that surround the lens allows the child to be seen in darkness. Mattress mechanism 30 - Actuators push rods allowing the mattress to raise and lower when in unison. Tilting motion is applied by only one actuator operating.

Box frame 32 - Found at the base to mount the actuators and a top frame for the mattress.

No buttons are accessible for the infant, so as to maintain safety when the user is not present.

The embodiment has the footprint of 1540mm by 840mm and comprises polyethylene frames and panels using a rotational, moulding method with a birch base and drawers that have a natural shellac finish. All electronic devices are mounted into one frame.

The mattress would be able to tilt up to 10° and lift with a difference of 250mm. This device would use a mains power source.

The invention has been described by way of examples only and it will be appreciated that variation may be made to the above-mentioned embodiments without departing from the scope of invention as defined by the claims.

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Claims

1. A wheeled cot apparatus comprising: an enclosure with a base, four sides and an open top, within which a mattress is arranged in use; a moving mechanism to raise, lower or tilt the mattress; a power source, a plurality of monitoring devices to include at least a thermometer; at least one audiovisual means and at least one light for illuminating the cot.

2. A wheeled cot apparatus according to claim 1 wherein one of the monitoring devices is a camera.

3. A wheeled cot apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein one of the monitoring devices includes a microphone.

4. A wheeled cot apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the at least one audiovisual means is a speaker.

5. A wheeled cot apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the at least one audiovisual means is a projector.

6. A wheeled cot apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the at least one audiovisual means is a baby monitor.

7. A wheeled cot apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the moving mechanism includes a stepper motor.

8. A wheeled cot apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the moving mechanism includes a linear actuator.

9. A wheeled cot apparatus according to any preceding claim including a remote controller.

10. A wheeled cot apparatus according to claim 9 wherein the remote controller is a smartphone or tablet.

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11. A wheeled cot apparatus according to any preceding claim including an electronic device holder.

12. A wheeled cot apparatus according to any preceding claim including an

5 interactive gaming device.

13. A wheeled cot apparatus according to any preceding claim including a heating means.

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14. A wheeled cot apparatus according to any preceding claim including a cooling means.

15. A wheeled cot apparatus according to any preceding claim including a connector for forming a wired connection with an electronic device.

16. A wheeled cot apparatus according to any preceding claim including a connector for forming a wireless connection with an electronic device phone.

17. A wheeled cot apparatus according to any preceding claim including a storage

20 area separate from the enclosure.

18. A wheeled cot apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein at least one side includes a plurality of openings defined by parallel bars.

Intellectual

Property

Office

Application No: GB1703943.9