Infant travel system

DESCRIPTION

BABY TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to baby carrier systems, including a baby carrier that can be mounted on a stationary or mobile base. More particularly, the present invention relates to: a restraint system for attaching a basic component of the baby carrier system to a car seat; a leveling system for the base; a multi-point locking system for securing a baby carrier to a complementary base; and a set of carrying handles for the baby carrier.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Baby carrier systems comprising a baby carrier and complementary base assembly are already well known in this technology. In many baby carrier systems, the locking mechanism between the baby carrier and the base is difficult to maneuver, or does not constitute a secure attachment. In addition, the location of the seat between the chair and the base, in previous technology systems, is not in the ideal position in order to take into account the different

ΡΕ1591307 consequences of frontal and rear collisions. Therefore, a certain need is felt for the existence of a more user-friendly system to fit the child transport seat to the base, and to release it. There is also a need for a more secure and well-balanced fit between the locking mechanism located in the baby carrier and the base.

In many baby transport systems, it is often difficult for a user to maneuver a self-contained, built-in restraint system in order to form a secure connection between the restraint system and an anchor mounted inside the car. For example, a user may be required to access the restraint system only from one side of the base assembly, or may need to place himself in an uncomfortable position within the car to operate the restraint system. In addition, there are straps for securing the restraint system that create confusion in the mounting of the base and can interfere with the fit between a baby carrier and the base assembly, causing a potential safety risk. Therefore, a certain need is felt for the existence of a self-contained restraint system in the base assembly with more user-friendly use, in order to form a tight connection between the base and the anchorage mounted on a car. Additionally, a certain need is felt for the existence of a

911591307 base assembly retention system with hidden attachment straps, or away from the possibility of interference with the attachment of a baby carrier to the base assembly.

In many baby transport systems, a leveling system is usually located on either the base or the chair. When the indicator is placed on the chair, it is necessary that the chair is mounted on the base so that a user can read the level. If the base has to be adjusted, the chair will normally have to be detached from the base, which can be frustrating for a user. When the level is located on the base, it is often hidden by the chair, or it can only be read from one side of the base. Finally, the leveling systems of the previous technology, typically in the form of a pendulum with an indicator, can make the reading by a user confusing, not being user friendly. Therefore, a certain need is felt for the existence of a better leveling system and more user-friendly use, to be located in the base assembly.

Adjustable carrying handles for baby seats are already well known. In many baby carrier chairs, the positioning of the carrying handle can be loosened when minimal force is applied. This is because

ΡΕ1591307 there is usually only a single locking fit between the handle and the chair, or because the adjustable locking fit between the handle and the chair is perpendicular to the radial rotation of the handle. Therefore, a certain need is felt for the existence of an adjustable handle locking mechanism having an improved fit between the handle and the chair.

EP 0560184A, US 6247208B and

US2003 / 151286A describe chairs for carrying babies according to the preamble of claim 1.

SUMMARY

One aspect of the present invention is directed to a baby carrier seat base. The base includes a frame dimensioned to be placed on a car seat and that defines front and rear parts and a center line. An adjustment set is attached to the frame and includes a locking element. The adjustment set is positioned in one of the parts, selected between the front and rear parts of the frame. The base also includes a rod with a free end, which is secured with the possibility of release to the locking element of the adjustment set, and at least one fixation end adapted to be fixed to an anchor mounted inside the car, so that the movement of the rod through the locking element makes the position of the fastening end relative to the frame; the base is characterized by the tie taking on a

911591307 Y-shape, where each of the opposite ends of the Y consists of a tie end, and the central leg of the Y consists of the free one.

divergent end fixation

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The above summary, as well as the following detailed description of preferred embodiments for the invention will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

Figure 1 is an expanded view of a baby carrier and base assembly according to the invention.

Figure 2 is an expanded view of the baby carrier in Figure 1, seen in the direction of arrow A in Figure 1.

<td></td><td>THE</td><td>Figure 3 is</td><td>a view</td><td>in</td><td>plant</td><td>gives</td><td>Assembly</td><td>in</td>

<td>base,</td><td colspan="2">observed according</td><td>the sense</td><td>gives</td><td>arrow B</td><td>at</td><td>Figure 2.</td><td></td>

<td></td><td>THE</td><td>Figure 4 is</td><td>a view</td><td>in</td><td>elevation</td><td>gives</td><td>Assembly</td><td>in</td>

<td>base,</td><td colspan="2">observed according</td><td>the sense</td><td>gives</td><td>arrow C</td><td>at</td><td>Figure 1.</td><td></td>

<td></td><td>THE</td><td>Figure 5 is</td><td>a view</td><td>in</td><td>elevation</td><td>gives</td><td>Assembly</td><td>in</td>

<td>base,</td><td colspan="2">observed according</td><td>the sense</td><td>gives</td><td>arrow D</td><td>at</td><td>Figure 1.</td><td></td>

Figure 6 is a sectional view taken along the plane 6-6 of Figure 5, of an automobile seat belt locking latch of the base assembly.

Figure 7 is a view of the interior of the base assembly of Figure 2, having removed the upper base cover and the rear base cover.

ΡΕ1591307

Figure 8 is a sectional view of the base assembly, taken along the plane 8-8 of Figure 2, illustrating the interrupted trace of the repositioning of the foot.

Figure 9 is a partial view of one side of the base assembly, showing a bubble level detached from the base assembly.

Figure 10 is a sectional view of the spirit level, taken along the plane 10-10 of Figure

9.

Figure 11 is a partial sectional view of the tie-rod assembly of Figure 8, with the rear base cover and tie-adjusting tab highlighted in relation to the base assembly.

Figure 12 illustrates the orientation of the fit between the baby carrier and the base assembly in Figure 1.

Figure 13 illustrates the orientation of the fit between the baby carrier and the base assembly in Figure 1.

Figure 14 illustrates the baby carrier seat attached to the base assembly.

Figure 15 is a perspective view of the shell of the baby carrier with an actuator and carrying handle assembly.

Figure 16 is a perspective view of the baby seat actuator assembly.

Figure 17 is a partial view of the baby chair shell and actuator set,

911591307 showing the connection area between one of the side fins and a leg end of the actuator assembly, when the actuator assembly is in a resting state.

Figure 18 is a sectional view, taken along the plane 18-18 of Figure 17, of the baby chair shell and actuator set, showing the connection area between one of the side fins and a leg end of the actuator assembly when the actuator assembly is in the idle state.

Figure 19 is a partial view of the shell of the baby carrier and actuator assembly, showing the connection area between one of the side fins and a leg end of the actuator assembly, when the actuator assembly is in an active state.

Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view, taken along the 20-20 plane of Figure 19, of the baby chair scoop and actuator assembly, showing the connection area between one of the side fins and a leg end of the actuator assembly, when the actuator assembly is in the active state.

Figure 21 is a partial cross-sectional view of a fastening mechanism at the upper rear end of the base assembly, which is shown to be attached to a corresponding receiving mechanism on the baby carrier.

Figure 22 is an expanded view of the handle fixing assembly and the hub ring for a hub structure.

ΡΕ1591307

Figure 23 is an inside view of an element of the carrying handle of Figure 22.

Figure 24 is a view from the inside of the handle fixation, for the carrying handle for the baby carrier, which is mounted in order to illustrate the activation of the handle actuator.

Figures 25, 27, and 28 are seen in cross-section showing the handle and locking element assembly, in different positions of secure fit.

Figure 26 is a sectional view showing the handle and locking element assembly, in an undocked position.

Figure 29 is a perspective view of the loop actuator, which is identified in Figure 23 by the letter E.

Figure 30 illustrates the orientation of the locking mechanism, seen from line 30-30 in Figure 29.

Figure 31 is a partial side view of a canopy attachment mechanism for the baby carrier.

Figure 32 is a front view of a harness chest closure, usable with the baby carrier, shown in a locked position.

Figure 33 is a front view of the harness chest closure of Figure 32, shown in an open position.

Figure 34 is a plan view, seen in the direction of line 34 in Figure 32.

Figure 35 is an expanded partial view of a baby restraint adjustment set.

ΡΕ1591307

Figures 36, 37, 39 and 40 illustrate another set of fixation of the handle and locking element, of the carrying handle for the chair for carrying babies, in various locking positions.

Figure 38 illustrates the other handle fixing and locking element set of the carrying handle for the baby carrier, in an undocked position.

Figure 41 is a perspective view of the baby carrier and complementary push-fit sets.

Figure 42 is a partial cross-sectional view of another base assembly retention system, the rear base cover being detached from the base assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED IMPLEMENTATION MODELS

Some terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and is not limiting. The words right, left, top, bottom, side, front and rear designate positions in the drawings to which they refer. The expressions for the inside and for the outside refer respectively to the directions of approaching and moving away from the geometric center of the system for transporting babies, and of certain parts of it.

Preferred embodiments for the invention will be described below with reference to Figures 1

ΡΕ1591307 to 42, where the same reference numbers identify similar elements throughout them.

Figures 1 to 5 show a preferred embodiment of the baby carrier 10 and base assembly 12 of the present invention. Referring to Figure 1, the base assembly will preferably include a frame 14 composed of an upper base cover 16, a lower base cover 18, and a rear base cover 20. The base assembly has a front end 13 and a rear end 15. The upper base cover 16 preferably has a curved platform 22 positioned between opposite side channels 24, 26 to receive a complementary baby carrier 10. The front end 23 of the curved platform 22 defines a higher level point relative to the platform curved 22. A pair of angled guiding extensions 28, 30 project outwards, from the curved platform 22 and into the opposite side channels 24, 26 at the front end 13 of the base assembly, to help install on the base assembly 12 a complementary baby transport chair 10 which has mating notches. The lower base cover 18 is generally horizontal to be placed on a car seat 32. A bottom storage compartment 31 can be formed between the curved platform 22 and the bottom base cover 18, which can be closed by a bottom storage door 33.

ΡΕ1591307

The base assembly 12 also includes a self-contained restraint system 34 positioned at the rear end 15 of the base assembly 12, to secure the base assembly 12 to a car, with an anchor 36 mounted inside a car next to the car seat 32 Referring to Figure 3, a first embodiment for the retention system 34 includes an adjustment set 38 coupled to the rear base cover 20 of the frame 14. An upper surface 37 of the rear base cover 20 will preferably include an opening 39 in the upper surface for receiving the adjustment set 38 inside the frame 14, in the center of the frame 14. As shown in Figures 7 and 11, the assembly Adjustment tab 38 will preferably consist of an adjustment tab 40 and lock assembly 42. Referring to Figure 11, the lock assembly may consist of an A-frame lock, such as Adjuster A38298 by Indiana Mills and Manufacturing, Inc; however, any suitable locking assembly can be used. The locking assembly 42 will preferably include an A 44 structure having first and second ends 46, 48. 0 A 44 structural member is attached, capable of rotating with respect to a housing 50, by means of a clamping means 52 which can consist of a screw, pin, or any acceptable clamping means. The frame element in A 44 is attached to the housing 50 in order to limit the rotation of the frame element in A 44 around the middle

911591307 clamping 52. The housing 46 is preferably attached to the frame 14.

The adjustment tab 40 is superimposed on the locking assembly 42 and is fixed, with rotation capacity, on the rear base cover 20 by means of a clamping means 53 which can consist of a screw, pin, or any acceptable clamping means. The adjustment flap 40 essentially takes an L-shape with first and second ends 54, 56. The first end 54 of the adjustment flap 40 is preferably exposed through the opening 39 of the rear base cover 20 and has a lip 58 to allow a user to grasp and pull the adjustment flap 40 in a direction towards the front end 13 of the base assembly 12. The second end 56 of the adjustment flap 40 is vertically received within the frame 14 and defines a plane of symmetry essentially parallel to the plane of the second end 48 of the A 48 frame member.

The second end 56 of the adjustment flap also includes a hook 60 to which a spring 62 is attached to attach to the frame 14 the second end 56 of the tensioned element 50. The spring limits the rotation of the adjustment flap 40 with respect to the middle clamping 53, and tensioning the adjustment flap 40 so as to keep the first end 54 of the adjustment flap 40 in a generally flat orientation with respect to the surface

911591307 upper 37 of the rear base cover 20. In a resting state, the first end 46 of the A-frame member 44 abuts the housing 50 by rotation.

Continuing to refer to Figure 11, when a force is exerted on the edge 58 of the first end 54, in order to pull the edge 58 upwards and towards the front end 13 of the base assembly 12 (see Figure 1), the the second end 56 of the adjustment tab 40 rotates in a direction towards the rear end 15 of the base assembly 12, thereby exerting a certain force on the second end 48 of the A 44 structural element, causing the second end 48 of the A 44 frame element to rotate towards the rear end 15 of the base assembly 12. When the second end 48 of the A 44 frame element rotates towards the rear end 15 of the base assembly 12, the first end 46 of the A 44 frame member rotates away from the housing 50, creating a gap between the first end 46 of the A 44 frame member and the housing 50.

The retention system 34 of the first embodiment further includes a tie 64, preferably in the form of a Y-shaped belt 66, with diverging ends 68, 70 and a central leg end 72. The tie 64 will preferably be made from a material in strong fabric and preferably presents

ΡΕ1591307 between 2.5 cm and 3.8 cm wide. The central leg end 72 of the Y-shaped belt 66 has an exposed part 74 and an inner part 76 which is received within the frame 14. The inner part 76 of the central leg end 72 is connected to the diverging ends 68, 70 of the Y-shaped belt element inside frame 14. Walking from the inside of the frame to the outside, the inner part 76 of the central leg end 72 passes between the first end 46 of the A-frame member 44 and the housing 50 of the locking assembly 42, thus being sandwiched between the first end 46 of the A-frame member 44 and the housing 50 of the lock assembly 42, when the adjusting assembly 38 is in the rest state. The inner part 76 of the central leg end 72 moves upwards, passing through the flap groove 78 over the first end 54 of the adjustment flap 40. The exposed part 74 of the central leg 72 then extends to the side of outside the frame 14. The exposed part of the central leg 72 can be stored in a cavity 75 in the rear base cover 20 (see Figure 3). Likewise, when walking from the inside of the frame 14 to the outside, each of the diverging ends 68, 70 of the Y-shaped belt will respectively exit the inside of the frame 14, preferably through side grooves 80, 82 (Figure 3) formed between the upper base cover 16 and the rear base cover 20.

ΡΕ1591307

Each of the diverging ends will preferably have a latch mounting set, which can consist of a left or right Mini-Connector (models A38214AB and A38213AB) manufactured by Indiana Mills and Manufacturing, Inc. However, any set can be used. similar fixation. Each of the locking sets 84, 86 is attached to one or more anchors 36 mounted inside a car, preferably on the chassis, next to a car seat 32 (Figure 1).

When the retaining system 34 of the first embodiment is being used, each of the latching sets 84 and 86 is fixed to a car anchor 36. The latch fixing assemblies can be stored in two opposite cavities 88, 90 formed at the rear end 15 of the frame and arranged from the connection of the rear base cover 20 to the upper base cover 16 (see Figures 1, 4, 5) , and be removed when fixing to the car is desired. In order to extend the divergent ends 68, 70 of the Y-shaped belt element 66, a user will pull the respective divergent end 68, 70, while pulling upwardly the edge 58 of the first end 54 of the flap. adjustment 40. As previously described in detail, pulling up the edge 58 of the first end 54 of the adjustment tab 40 upwards will create a gap between the first end 46 of the frame member

ΡΕ1591307

44 and the inner part 76 of the central leg end 72 of the Y-shaped belt 66, to allow this inner part 76 of the central leg end 72 of the Y-shaped belt 66 to move downwards through the assembly of adjustment 38, thus allowing a greater length of the diverging ends 68, 70 to pass through the side grooves 80, 82 and be exposed, coming from inside the frame 14.

Once the locking sets 84, 86 are attached to one or more car anchors 36, the exposed part 74 of the central leg 72 of the Y-shaped belt 66 is used to adjust the position of the frame 14 relative to the back 87 of an automobile seat.

By pulling upward the exposed part 74 of the central leg 72 of the Y-shaped belt 66, the inner part 76 of the central leg end 72 of the Y-shaped belt is achieved to move upwards through the adjustment assembly 38 , thereby creating a greater length of the exposed portion 74 of the central leg end 72, and decreasing the exposed length of both divergent ends 68, 70 of the Y-shaped belt 66. It should be noted that the first end 46 A-frame element 44 of the locking assembly 42 is adapted to allow the inner part 76 of the central leg end 72 of the Y-shaped belt 66 to move upwards without being necessary a user to pull the edge 58 of the first end 54 of the adjustment tab 40.

ΡΕ1591307

Figure 42 illustrates a second self-contained restraint system 91 of the base assembly 12, preferably comprising at least one spacer ratchet assembly 92 attached to the inside of frame 14. The spacer ratchet assembly 92 will preferably comprise a structure 93 having parallel side walls 94, 95. A tensioning element or leg 96 will preferably be coupled to the structure 93, with rotation capacity, between the side walls 94 and 95. A reel 97 is mounted with rotation capacity between the side walls 94, 95. A pair of ratchet reels 98, 99 each having a multiplicity of peripheral teeth 100, 101 - is coupled to the reel 97 and rotates with it.

A spring (not shown) that is connected to the reel 97 and frame 93 impels the reel 97 to rotate in a direction of retraction or reduction of looseness in order to remove a rod 102. The rod 102 can be firmly fixed or coupled to the reel 97 , but not necessarily. The spool 97 is normally driven to move in the direction of retraction to remove or remove the rod 102 above the spool 97, in order to reduce the looseness in the rod 102. However, the spool 97 can be made to allow the rod 102 to be pulled out of the frame 93, in a direction opposite to the direction of retraction or reduction of looseness.

911591307 tensioner element 96 is coupled to frame 93 so as to be driven against ratchet sprockets 98, 99 in order to engage a pair of opposing teeth 100, 101. The tensioner element 96 and ratchet sprockets 98, 99 act with the objective of preventing the rotation of the reel 97 in a direction opposite to the direction of retraction or reduction of looseness. The tensioner element 96 can be connected to a manual actuator, to allow a user to disengage

<td>the contact</td><td>between the</td><td>element</td><td colspan="2">tensioner 96</td><td>and the teeth</td><td> 100,</td><td> 101</td>

<td colspan="2">of the</td><td>ratchet</td><td> 98,</td><td> 99,</td><td>allowed</td><td>what</td><td>one</td>

<td>user</td><td>pull the</td><td>tether</td><td> 102</td><td>for</td><td>the side of</td><td>out</td><td>gives</td>

structure 93, in the opposite direction to the direction of retraction or reduction of looseness.

As shown in Figure 42, the frame 93 is adapted to be mounted on the inside of the frame 14 of the base assembly 12. The rod 102 will preferably have a first end 103, a second end 104 and a central part 105. A central part 105 of the rod 102 is received on the inside of the frame 14 and is wound around the spool 97 when the rod 102 is retracted. 0 tie 102 passes from the inside to the outside of the frame 14 through side grooves 80, 82 formed between the upper base cover 16 and the rear base cover 20, and is preferably coupled to a latch mechanism, a manner similar to the diverging ends 68, 70 of the Y-shaped belt element 66 discussed

911591307 previously regarding the first realization model for the restraint system 34.

As shown in Figures 2, 5, and 6, the base 12 can also be attached to a car having a shoulder harness 120, via one of two opposite belt lock elements 122, 124. As illustrated, the cover upper base 16 has a pair of opposite arm extensions 126, 128 connected to the rear base cover 20. The opposing arm extensions 126, 128 and the rear base cover 20 define opposite openings 130, 132 in the frame 14, next to the rear end 15 of the frame 14. Each of the belt locking elements 122, 124 will preferably be positioned by under one of the opposite arm extensions 126, 128 of the upper base cover 16, being fixed there. Figures 5 and 6 illustrate the interaction between one of the belt lock elements 124 and one of the opposite arm extensions 128 for exemplary purposes, although both the belt lock elements and the arm extensions are preferably identical. Each of the opposite arm extensions 126, 128 has an inside and an outside side 134, 136, forming a cavity 135 between them. Between the inside and outside sides 134, 136 and extending through the cavity 135, there is a central projection 138 that extends along a part of the length of each of the opposite arm extensions 126, 128. Referring to Figure 6, each belt locking element has a rough top surface 140 and a surface

Lisa1591307 bottom smooth 12. The rough top surface 140 will preferably have protruding teeth 144, 146 that extend along a part of the length of the belt locking elements 122, 124, parallel to the central projection 122 of the opposite arm extensions 126 , 128. As shown in Figure 6, the teeth 144, 146 of the belt locking elements 122, 124 partially extend into the cavity 135 of the opposite arm extensions 126, 128, and the central protrusion of the opposite arm extensions extend. into a groove 148 formed between teeth 144, 146 of the belt locking elements 122,

124.

When the base 12 is attached to a car, using the car's seat belt featuring a shoulder harness 120, one of the opposing belt locking elements 122, 124 can be used to secure shoulder harness 120 to the base assembly 12, in order to prevent the shoulder harness 120 from loosening in the fit between the base assembly 12 and the car seat belt. 0 shoulder harness 120 receives the backrest of teeth 144, 146 of the belt locking element 122, 124, as well as the inside and outside sides 134, 136 and the central projection of the arm extensions 126, 128, in order to constitute a tight fit to prevent shoulder harness 120 from moving once it is engaged.

As shown in Figures 1 to 3, 9 and 10, at least one liquid bubble level 160, 162 is located

911591307 inside the frame 14. A part of the liquid bubble level 160, 162 will preferably be received inside the frame 14 and positioned on one of the two opposite side parts 164, 166 of the upper base cover 16, at the front end 13 of the frame 14. However, the liquid bubble level can be positioned at any suitable location on the frame. Since the base 12 assembly can be installed on either the left or right side of a car, or given the fact that a user can access one side of the car when using the base 12 assembly, the levels of liquid bubble 160, 162 will preferably be located on the opposite side parts 164, 166 of the upper base cover 16 for the user's convenience. The liquid bubble levels 160, 162 preferably assume a curvilinear shape to match the curvilinear shape of the respective opposing side parts 164, 166.

Referring to Figures 1 to 5, 7 and 8, a height adjustment set 170 of the base 12 is shown therein. The height adjustment set 170 will preferably include an adjustable foot 172 that works in cooperation with an adjustment mechanism 174 to raise and lower the adjustable foot 172. 0 Adjustment mechanism 174 includes at least one side recline button, and preferably two opposite side recline buttons 176, 178 which are received inside opposite side openings 180, 182 on opposite side parts 164, 166 of the base cover

ΡΕ1591307 top 16. The opposite side buttons for recline 176, 178 have an upper part 184, 186 and a bottom part 188, 190. The top part 184, 186 of each side button for recline 176, 178 is exposed on the top side of the opposite sides 164, 166 of the upper base cover 16, to function as a user interface. The lower part 188, 190 of each side recline button 176, 178 extends into the frame 14. As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the bottom part 188, 190 of each side button opposite to recline 176, 178 will preferably abut the recline bar 192. There are recline supports 194, 196 extending from the bar recline 192 to recline piston rod 198 having first and second ends 197, 199. Springs 200, 202 are provided which extend along a part of each reclining support 194, 196 to hold each end of the 197, 199 of the reclining piston rod 198 in tension against one of a plurality of opposing notches inclined to reception 204, 205 that if

<td>develop from a</td><td>part</td><td colspan="2">inclined foot 206</td>

<td>adjustable 172.</td><td></td><td></td><td></td>

<td>Continuing to do</td><td colspan="2">reference to</td><td>Figures 7 and 8,</td>

<td>adjustable foot 172 includes</td><td>an</td><td>part</td><td>inclined 206</td>

featuring a multiplicity of opposed inclined notches for reception 204, 205 and a horizontal part 208 adapted to be placed on a car seat 32, in the same plane as the lower base cover 18. The adjustable foot 172 is articulated fixed in the

911591307 upper base cover 16 of frame 14, at a connecting end 210 of the foot opposite the inclined part 206. A U-shaped spring 212 will preferably be attached to the connecting end 210 of the adjustable foot 172 to tension the adjustable foot 172 under tension downwards against the upper base cover 16.

When at least one of the opposing side recline buttons 176, 178 of the adjustment mechanism 174 is loaded by a user, the recline bar 192 is pushed towards the front end 13 of the frame 14, thus pulling the recline supports 194, 196 and the recline piston rod 198 towards the front end 13 of the frame 14. When the plunger rod 198 is pulled towards the front end 13 of the frame 14, each end 197, 199 of the reclining plunger rod 198 will move away from the opposing slots for reception 204, 205, in one sufficient distance to allow the adjustable foot to rotate to adjust a certain angle of the base 12 with respect to the car seat 32. When the foot has been repositioned at a desired angle, the user can release the - at least one - opposite side button to recline 176, 178, which causes each end 197, 198 of the recline piston rod 198 to re-fit into one of the multiple opposed angled slots for reception 204, 205 extending from an inclined portion 206 of the adjustable foot 172. The spacing and number of the multiple is predetermined

911591307 opposite inclined slots for reception 204, 205. At least one of the opposing liquid bubble levels 160, 162 can be used to assist a user in determining a reclined position.

The inclined part 206 of the adjustable foot 172 has an essentially vertical orientation with the rear facing part 17 of the upper base cover 16 and the rear facing part 21 of the rear base cover 20, due to the angled orientation of the inclined part 206 and of the receiving notches 204, 205. The vertical orientation of the base assembly 12 is essentially parallel to the vertical inclination of most of the backs 87 of the car seats. 0 adjustable foot 172 can be used to adjust the height of the top of the rear base cover 20 so that it is approximately 17, 8 cm and 25.4 cm from the bottom of the adjustable foot 172. The vertical orientation of the rear end 15 of the base assembly 12 works in cooperation with the height range (approximately between 17, 8 cm and 25, 4 cm) and the width of the base assembly 12 (approximately 35.6 cm), contributing together to resist the effect of turning around (flipping), associated with chairs for transporting babies in cars in the event of collisions from the back. These height and width dimensions are used in exemplary terms, the height and width of the rear end 15 of the base assembly may vary.

ΡΕ1591307

Referring to Figures 2 and 12 to 21, there is shown a baby transport chair 10 used in association with the base assembly 12. Figures 2 and 12 to 14 show the positional arrangement of the base assembly 12 and the child seat. carrying babies 10. The frame 14 of the base assembly 12 includes a curved platform 22 positioned between opposite side channels 24, 26. Two angled guiding extensions 28, 30 extend from the curved platform 22 at the rear end 15 of the frame 14. Each of the angled guiding extensions 28, 30 will preferably have a curved surface 220, 222 that remains facing the end 15 of the frame 14, an inclined surface 224, 226 and a vertical surface 228, 230. In addition, the base cover 16 of the frame 14 further includes two opposing rear guiding extensions 232, 234.

Referring to Figure 15, the baby carrier 10 includes a shell 235 having an inner side 236 and an outer side 238, an upper end 240 and a lower end 242. 0 outer side 238 of shell 235 will preferably include a pair of opposing guides 256, 258, a pair of opposing notches 244, 246 for mating with the angled guiding extensions 28, 30 of the base assembly 12, and a pair of notches 248, 250 at the bottom end 42 to mate with the rear guide extensions of the base assembly 12. As shown in Figures 12 and 13, each of the opposite notches 244, 246 (only one of them

911591307 is shown) has an arcuate surface 252 and a generally straight but oblique surface 254. Chair 10 can be installed on the base assembly 12 by establishing contact between the curved surface 252 of the opposing notches 244, 246 and the curved surface 220, 222 of the angled guiding extensions 28, 30 of the base assembly 12, and pushing chair 10 towards the end 15 of the base assembly 12 (Figure 12), or by establishing contact between the oblique surface 254 of the opposite side notches 244, 246 of the chair 10 and the inclined surface 224, 226 of the angled guiding extensions 28, 30 of the base assembly 12, and pushing the chair 10 in a direction that is directed towards the end 13 of the base assembly 12 (Figure 13). When the chair 10 is installed in the base assembly 12, the opposite guides 256, 258 of the chair 10 are received within the respective side channels 24, 26 of the base assembly 12 (Figure 14) and the chair 10 is seated above the platform 22 of the base assembly 12 (Figure 14).

Referring to Figures 2, 3 and 14 to 21, the baby carrier 10 will preferably be attached to the base assembly 12 at four engagement points. Each of the opposite side parts 164, 166 of the upper base cover 16 has an opposite side recess 260, 262 facing respectively one of the opposite side channels 24, 26. In addition, the base assembly 12 includes a pair of rotating safety latches 264, 266 - which can consist of hooks, or any

911591307 another suitable safety device - positioned at the rear end 15 of the base 12, and which will preferably develop through a pair of openings 272, 274 that extend along the rear base cover 16. The hooks 264, 266 will be preferably positioned so that a head 268, 270 of the hook 264, 266 faces the rear end 15 of the base 12 (Figure 7).

The shell 235 of chair 10 defines opposite side openings 276, 278 that extend along a side part 280, 282 of the shell 235. The shell further defines opposite receptacles 284, 286 (Figure 2) that extend along the edge of shell bottom 242

235. The upper end 240 of the shell 235 further defines an opening 288 for receiving a tensioning handle 290 from an actuator assembly 292 (Figures 2, 15). The actuator assembly 292 (Figure 16) is positioned on the inner side 236 of the shell 235, the handle 290 of the actuator assembly 292 being accessible through opening 288. The actuator assembly 292 will preferably have two arms 294, 296 extending from the handle 292, running down the inner sides 236 of shell 235. The arms will preferably have angled notches 298, 300 for receiving dowels 302, 304 respectively from side mounting assemblies under tension 306, 308. These side mounting assemblies 306, 308 include retractable fixing projections 310, 312, for example in the form of a fin. The retractable fixing projections 310, 312 extend to

ΡΕ1591307 from the inside of the shell 235, into the side openings 276, 278. As shown in Figures 17 and 18, in a resting state, the tensioned side mounting sets 306, 308 tension the retractable fixing projections 310 , 312, so that they extend through the side openings 276, 278. The retractable fixing projections 310, 312 are adapted to form a secure complementary fit with the opposite side recess 260, 262 of the frame 14 of the base assembly 12, when the chair 10 is installed in the base assembly 12.

Referring to Figures 19 and 20, when the tensioning handle 290 of the actuator assembly 292 is pulled upwards, the pins 302, 304 of the tensioned side mounting assemblies 306, 308 slide towards the center of the shell 235 along notches at an angle 298, 300, causing the retractable fixing projections 310, 312 to retract towards the interior of the shell 235, thus releasing the safety slot between the retractable fixing projections 310, 312 and the opposite side recesses 260, 262 of the frame 14 of the base 12.

Referring to Figures 15, 16 and 21, in particular to Figure 16, each of the arms 294, 296 of the actuator assembly 292 is preferably connected to a cable 314, 316 having first 318, 320 and second 322, 324 ends. The first ends 318, 320 of each of the cables 314, 316 are respectively connected

ΡΕ1591307 to the arms 294, 296, and the second ends 322, 324 of each of the cables 314, 316 are respectively connected to the tension elements 326, 328. The tension elements 326, 328 are positioned and are respectively received inside the opposite receptacles 284, 286 of shell 235. Each tension member 326, 328 includes a first end 330, 332 and a second end 334, 336. The first ends 330, 332 of the tension elements 326, 328 are connected - with rotation capacity - to the shell 335, and the second ends 334, 336 of the tension elements 326, 328 are coupled to cables 314, 316 of the actuator assembly 292 The tension elements 326, 328 are tensioned towards the lower end 242 of the shell 235, in a resting state. The opposing receptacles 284, 286 of the shell 235 are configured in such a way as to receive the opposite safety latches or hooks 264, 266 of the base assembly 12, when the chair 10 is installed in the base 12. The safety latches or hooks 264 .266 of the base assembly 12 in the receptacles 284, 286 of the chair 10 prevents the chair 10 from rotating or moving upwards.

Referring to Figure 21, when the tensioning handle 290 of the actuator assembly 292 is pulled upwards, the tension elements 326, 328 will rotate towards the upper end 240 of the shell 235, forcing the freckle of the latches or safety hooks 264 266 of the base assembly 12 out of receptacles 284, as well as

286, releasing the groove between the latches or hooks

ΡΕ1591307 security 264, 266 of the base assembly 12 and the receptacles 284, 286 of the chair 10.

The retractable securing lugs 310, 312 of the baby carrier 10 are adapted to be mounted on a baby carriage 338 with complementary opposite receiving notches 339 (only one is shown). A rim 340 on the outer side of the shell 235, near the top end 240 of the shell 235, is adapted to rest on the tray 342 of the baby carriage 338 (see Figure 41).

Referring to Figures 32 to 35, the chair will preferably have a baby retention harness 350, shown in broken line, made from a strong fabric material. The car's holding harness will preferably consist of a Y-shaped belt, having diverging ends 352, 354 and a central leg end 356. As shown in Figures 32 to 34, a locking mechanism 358 is attached to each of the diverging ends 352, 354 of the Y-shaped belt. The locking mechanism 358 has male and female connectors 360, 362. The female connector 362 features front and rear faces 364, 366 that delimit a groove 368. On the front face 364 of the female connector

362 an opening 370 is also defined. The male connector

360 has front and rear faces 372, 374 and an insertion end 376, the insertion end 376 being adapted to be received inside the

911591307 groove 368 of female connector 362. The front face 372 of male connector 360 will preferably include a flexible button 378 that can be received into opening 370 of female connector 362. When end 376 of male connector 360 is inserted into the groove 368 of female connector 362, flexible button 378 of male connector 360 is received by opening 370 of female connector 362. To disengage, a user presses flexible button 378.

Referring to Figure 35, chair 10 further includes a headgear adjustment set 380. Headgear adjustment set 380 comprises a locking assembly 382 and an adjustment tab 384. Adjustment set 380 works in a similar manner to adjustment set 38 of the base which has been discussed above, so it will not be repeatedly described in detail here.

Figures 22 to 31 illustrate opposing handle fixing sets 400, 402 for attaching each arm 406, 408 from a carrying handle 404 to a baby carrier 10. The handle fixing assemblies 400, 402 will preferably include a receiving hub part 410, 412 on each arm 406, 408, adapted to be fixed on opposite side hubs 414, 416 of the shell 235 of chair 10 (see Figure 1). Only one of the handle fixing sets 400, 402 will be described in detail below, although the two fixing sets 400, 402 are preferably identical.

ΡΕ1591307

Referring to Figures 22 to 24, 29 and 30, the receiving hub part 412 includes an actuator assembly 418 comprising an articulating component 420, a stationary component 422, and a tension spring locking component 424. The arm 408 of the handle 404 defines an opening 426 next to the receiving hub part 412, for receiving the pivotable component 420 and the stationary component 422. 0 stationary component has a cover end 428 and an inner end 430 which is received within arm 408. The pivotable component 420 includes a lever end 432 and a tensioning end

434. The pivotable component 420 is adapted to be attached to the stationary component 422, with rotation capacity, at a pivot point 436 (Figure 23). 0 pivotable component 420 and stationary component 422 are received within opening 426, such that the cover end 428 of stationary component 422 is nearly flush with the outer surface of arm 408, and the lever end 432 of the pivotable component protrudes to the outside through the opening 426. The stationary component 422 is fixed on the arm 408 at fixing points 438, 440, when received on the arm 408. 0 articulating component 420 will be fixed, with rotation capacity, to stationary component 422 and arm 408 at the point of articulation 436, when received in arm 408. As shown in Figures 23 and 24, the edge 442 of stationary component 422 limits rotation downwardly from the pivotable component 420 when the edge

911591307 complementary 444 of the articulating component 420. Similarly, the inner surface 446 of the cover end 428 of the stationary component 222 limits the upward rotation of the articulating component 420 by the shoulder of the projection 448.

articulating component 420 will preferably extend through opening 426, such that the tensioning end 434 is positioned within the receiving hub part 412. The tension spring locking component 424 has a first end 450 to fit a complementary locking mechanism, and a second end 452 positioned within the receiving hub part 412 to abut against the tensioning end 434 of the pivotable component 420. The second end 452 of the locking component 424 has an angled eccentric surface 454 that abuts a complementary surface for monitoring angled eccentric over the tensioning end 434 of the articulating component 420. The second end 452 of the locking member 424 will also preferably include a pair of springs 458, 460 to tension the locking member 424, away from the receiving hub part 412 and propelling it to the opposite side hub 416 of shell 235.

As shown in Figures 24, 29 and 30, when a user pushes the lever end 432 of the pivot component 420 downwards, the tension end 434 of the pivot component 420 rotates in the direction

ΡΕ1591307 ascending, moving the surface to accompany cam at angle 456 along the surface

<td>eccentric at an angle 454,</td><td>and compelling</td><td> 0</td><td>component</td><td>in</td>

<td>lock 424 to be pulled</td><td>in direction</td><td>The</td><td colspan="2">cube part</td>

<td>receiver 412 and away from</td><td colspan="2">side cube</td><td>opposite 416</td><td>gives</td>

<td>shell 235.</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td>

<td>Referencing</td><td>the figures</td><td> 22</td><td>and 25 to 28,</td><td>O</td>

opposite side hub 414 has a central projection 462 positioned on a central axis CA (Figure 22) and a multiplicity of peripheral projections 464 that extend towards the center of the hub 416 and are radially positioned in relation to the central projection 462. As shown in Figure 22, the central projection 462 is used to secure the receiving hub part 412 to the side hub 416 of the shell 235, along the central axis AC, so that the carrying handle 404 can rotate about a radial axis in relation to the central axis AC. As shown in Figures 25 to 28, the peripheral projections consist of six small projections 466 diametrically opposed and alternately placed between six large projections 468 also diametrically opposite. However, the number of small and large projections 466, 468 may vary.

locking member 424 will preferably have a central opening 470 to receive the central projection 462 of hub 416. locking member 424 will also preferably include two opposite notches

ΡΕ1591307

472, 474 positioned on an axis perpendicular to the axis of the first and second ends 450, 452 of the locking member 424. Each of the opposing notches 472, 474 is configured to receive and complement the small projections 466 of the hub 416. When the receiving hub part 412 is attached to the side hub 416, the opposing notches 472, 474 of the locking member 424 will be engaged on a pair of small protrusions 466 diametrically opposite, on an axis perpendicular to the central axis AC connecting the hub part carry handle receiver 412 404 and side shell 416 of the shell 235.

To adjust the position of the carrying handle 404, the locking member 424 can be moved away from the small projections 466, by acting on the lever end 432 to pull the locking member 424 towards the receiving hub part 412 and moving it away relative to the opposite side hub 416 of the shell 235. The multiple peripheral projections 464 have a height such that the locking member 424 rotates radially around the central projection 462 when away from the small projections 466 (see Figure 26). As shown in Figures 25 to 28, the locking member 424 can be attached to the small projections 466, to allow the carrying handle 404 to be adjusted in one of three positions. 0 side cube 416 will preferably include two diametrically opposed back projections, positioned on the periphery of cube 416 and having a length developed parallel to the central axis

ΡΕ1591307

Sufficient AC to abut the locking member 424 when away from protrusions 466, and to prevent locking member 424 from rotating more than 180 degrees.

Figures 36 to 40 illustrate opposite handle assemblies 500, 502 for securing each arm 406, 408 of a carrying handle 404 for a baby carrier 10. The handle fixing assemblies 500, 502 (only one of which is shown) will preferably include a hub receiving part 510, 512 (only one of which is shown) on each of the arms 406, 408, adapted to be fixed in cubes opposite sides 514, 516 (only one of which is shown) of the shell 235 of chair 10 (see Figure 1). The hub receiving parts 510, 512 are attached to the hubs of opposite sides along a central axis AC, in a similar manner to that of the preceding assemblies. Only one of the opposing clamping assemblies 500, 502 will be described in detail below, although the two clamping assemblies 500, 502 are preferably identical.

The hub receiving part 512 includes the actuator assembly 516 comprising a button 518 and a tension locking element 520. The button has first and second ends 520, 524. The second end 524 of the button has opposite sides 526, 528 and is adapted to be received inside a notch 530 in the arm 408, next to the hub receiving part 512. The sides 526, 528 of the button 518 define a channel 532. The first end 522 of the

ΡΕ1591307 button 518 protrudes outwards through the notch 530 of the arm 408.

tensioned locking element 520 will preferably comprise a locking end 534 and a tensioning end 536. The locking end has a locking head 538 extending parallel to the central axis AC. The locking end

534 also includes a centrally located oval opening

540 that extends along the central axis AC. When the hub receiving part 512 is connected to the side hub 516 of the shell 235, a central protrusion 542 of the hub 516 extending along the central axis AC is received within the oval opening 540 of the locking end 538.

The tensioning end 536 of the tensioned locking element 520 will preferably define a groove 544 surrounded by two opposing abutment elements 546, 548. The groove is adapted to be received into side channel 532 526, 528 of button 518. One spring 539 is connected to the tensioning end 536 to tension the locking element while tensioning the button

518.

In addition, side 526 of button 518 has an inclined surface 550 that abuts a complementary inclined surface 552 of the abutment element 548, and pushes the button out of the notch 530, in a resting state. When the first end 522 of the

ΡΕ1591307 button 518 is pressed downward by a user, the inclined surface 550 of button 518 slides against a complementary inclined surface 552 of the backing element 548, and pulls the locking element 520 in a direction perpendicular to the central axis AC leading it to button 518.

side hub 516 has a central projection 542 positioned on the central axis CA, and a plurality of peripheral projections 554 that extend towards the center of the hub 516 and are radially positioned in relation to the central projection. As shown in Figures 37 to 40, the multiplicity of peripheral projections 554 can consist of four small projections 556 diametrically opposite and two large projections 558 also diametrically opposite. However, the number of projections 554 can vary.

The locking head 538 of the locking element 520 is configured to have two opposite locking heads 560, 562. Each of the locking heads 560, 562 is configured to fit between two of the multiple peripheral projections 554, according to an axis perpendicular to the central axis AC, to fix the handle 404 in a stationary position.

The radially carrying handle 404 is adapted adjusted around the central axis to be

HERE. To adjust the position of the carrying handle 404, the

911591307 slot 560, 562 of the locking element 520 will be moved away from the projections 554, by pressing downwards the first end 522 of the button 518, in order to pull the locking element 520 towards the button 518 and allow the central projection 542 slide along the 540 oval opening. The small projections 556 have a width that extends perpendicularly to the central axis AC, in order to allow the locking head 538 to rotate in the radial direction around the small projections 556, when separated from the fixation between the projections 554. As shown in Figures 37 to 40, the locking head 538 can be fixed between the projections 554, to allow the carrying handle 404 to be adjusted between one of three positions. 0 side hub 516 will preferably include two large protrusions 558 diametrically opposed, having a width that extends perpendicular to the central axis AC and is sufficient for them to abut against the locking head 538, when away from the protrusions 554, preventing the locking head 538 rotate more than 180 degrees.

Figures 1, 22, and 31 illustrate a ratchet cap 580 that can be attached to the baby carrier 10. The ratchet cap will preferably comprise a pair of rims 582, 584 that can be attached to the outer surface of the hubs sides 414, 416 of shell 235. For the sake of simplicity, only one connection per ratchet cap will be described below. The outer surface of the side hub 416 includes a

911591307 multiplicity of peripheral projections 586 extending radially around hub 416. The inner surface of rim 584 includes a multiplicity of peripheral projections 588 extending radially around rim 584 to mate with peripheral projections 586 of hub 416, a in order to ensure a secure connection between the rim 584 and the hub 416.

Although various methods, configurations and features for the present invention have been previously described, and shown in the drawings for the various embodiments of the present invention, those skilled in the art will realize from this disclosure that it can be used any combination of the above characteristics, provided that it remains within the scope of the appended claims.

Lisbon, July 2, 2014

ΡΕ1591307