Method and apparatus for carrying a car seat

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

0001[0001] This application relates to and claims priority on prior U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 60/336,631, filed on Dec. 7, 2001 and entitled “Method and Apparatus for Carrying an Infant's or Child's Car Seat on an Individuals Back with or without a Child in the Car Seat.”

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

0002[0002] The present invention relates to carrying a car seat such as an infant car seat, child car seat, or a child booster seat. In particular, the invention relates to a system of harnesses for carrying a car seat on a person's back, chest, or side, leaving the person's hands free. The present invention also permits a person to carry a car seat together with a child secured in the car seat.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

0003[0003] The use of car seats for the safe restraint of infants and children in vehicles is well known. For the safety and comfort of an infant or child, and also to comply with applicable laws requiring the use of car seats for children of specified ages, car seats now are commonly removed from the family vehicle and taken along on travels. For example, a child's car seat may be used for the child in a rental car on the family vacation. In addition, car seats commonly may be used in other modes of transportation, such as airplanes, busses, boats, or trains, to provide a safer and more comfortable seat for young children.

0004[0004] Such use of car seats away from the family vehicle thus requires the transport of the car seats through airport terminals, bus stations, train stations, boat terminals, and the like. The typical infant or child car seat is quite bulky, of an awkward shape, and may weigh between ten and twenty pounds. Thus the physical size, structure, and weight of the car seat make it difficult to carry and for most persons, require the use of both hands. This is particularly necessary if the car seat is carried for a substantial distance.

0005[0005] Various devices have been developed to assist with the transport of car seats, including a wide variety of bags, totes, and cases. Typically these travel bags comprise a zippered sack, with a handle and/or shoulder strap. The car seat may be placed in the sack and then carried from the family vehicle to baggage check, or onto the airplane, bus, etc.

0006[0006] Alternatively, some models of car seats are provided with wheels and a handle, essentially converting the car seat into a stroller so that it can be wheeled through an airport or other area. In addition, stroller-type attachments are made for car seats, again converting the car seat to a stroller-like apparatus that can be wheeled to its destination.

0007[0007] Typically, a child young enough to require the use of a car seat is also too young to walk any considerable distance through an airport terminal, train station, etc. This generally requires that the child also be carried, typically in a stroller, a backpack or front carrier, or simply in the guardian's arms. In addition, travel with young children generally entails transporting various other equipment, such as diaper bags. As a result, persons transporting young children while traveling must potentially negotiate a number of large, awkward items, in addition to the child.

0008[0008] The devices described above, although designed to transport car seats, nonetheless have a number of disadvantages and limitations. For example, even when encased in the travel bag type of carrier, a car seat may be quite cumbersome to carry, often banging against the leg of the person carrying it. Furthermore, it is not possible to carry a child strapped in the car seat when the car seat is encased in this type of travel bag, so the child typically must be carried in addition to the car seat, or placed in a stroller or other carrying device. This is particularly challenging for a single adult traveling with a child.

0009[0009] Car seats that are capable of being converted to stroller-like apparatuses do permit the carrying of the child in the car seat, but require the transporting person to use his or her hands to wheel the car seat/stroller. In the case of stroller-type attachments, these must be detached and stored once the car seat is placed in the airplane, rental car or other seat.

0010[0010] The present invention comprises several systems of harnesses and straps that may be attached to a car seat, so that the car seat may then be carried on a person's back, chest, or side. The harness systems of the present invention need not be removed when the car seat is placed in its destination seat in a vehicle, airplane, train, etc. Instead, the present invention permits the car seat to be securely fastened into a vehicle or other seat, using a conventional safety or seat belt restraint, while the harness systems remain attached to the car seat.

0011[0011] In addition to features designed for convenience, the present invention optimizes load-carrying efficiency and comfort for the user. The harness systems of the present invention are attached to a fabric carrier body that is provided with an internal semi-rigid back pad. The back pad, or stiffening member, may also be provided with shaped, semi-rigid aluminum stays. This semi-rigid body frame provides a contoured platform that supports the load of the car seat, or car seat plus child, and effectively distributes the load over a large area of the user's back. The carrier body may also be provided with a mesh aerospacer fabric for comfort. The design of the present invention thus avoids single points of excessive pressure on the user's back.

0012[0012] The semi-rigid body frame also provides a means of attachment for the harnesses such that the harnesses and points of attachment remain stationary as the user carries the car seat, or car seat plus child. In addition, the carrier body provides attachment points for a chest strap, multiple adjustment straps for optimizing the fit of the carrier to the user, and an adjustable hip belt. Attachment of the harness systems and adjustable straps to the semi-rigid carrier body permits the user to shift the load and position of the load in order to optimize stability and comfort.

0013[0013] The present invention thus overcomes limitations of the known devices in that it permits the user to carry the car seat without the use of his or her hands. The person's hands are thus free to carry other baggage or equipment, or the child, if desired. In addition, the transporting person may also carry the infant or child securely strapped into the car seat. Thus a further benefit of the present invention is that its use obviates the need for an additional stroller, backpack or front carrier to carry the child, reducing the amount of paraphernalia otherwise required to travel with a young child. Because the harness systems of the present invention need not be removed for the car seat to be secured in a vehicle or other seat, there is no additional equipment to detach, fold, or stow away.

0014[0014] Further, Applicant has designed the present invention to be useable with any commercially available car seat, by virtue of having certain of the harness systems available in a multiplicity of sizes and configurations. For example, the load lifter adjustment straps may be provided with attachment mechanism of varying thickness, in order to fit in car seat slots of different sizes. The user may “mix and match” components of the apparatus, to choose the combination of harness systems that best fits a particular model of car seat.

0015[0015] Additional objects and advantages of the invention are set forth, in part, in the description which follows and, in part, will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from the description and/or from the practice of the invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

0016[0016] In response to the foregoing challenge, Applicant has developed an innovative and efficient system of harnesses for carrying a car seat. As illustrated in the accompanying drawings and disclosed in the accompanying claims, the invention is an apparatus for carrying a car seat by a person, comprising a carrier body having an upper end and a lower end, and at least one harness system attached to the carrier body, for attaching the carrier body to the car seat and to the person. The at least one harness system may further comprise a shoulder harness system attached to the carrier body at the upper end and at the lower end, for securing the apparatus to the person. The at least one harness system may further comprise a middle harness system attached to the carrier body between the upper end and the lower end, for attaching the carrier body to the car seat. The at least one harness system may further comprise a hip harness system attached to the carrier body at the lower end, for further securing the apparatus to the person. And, the at least one harness system may further comprise an upper harness system attached to the carrier body at the upper end, for further attaching the carrier body to the car seat.

0017[0017] The upper harness system of the present invention may further comprise at least one load lifter adjustment strap, having a first end and a second end, attached to the carrier body at the upper end. The first end of the load lifter adjustment strap may further comprise a first releasable attachment mechanism for attaching to and detaching from the carrier body, and the second end may further comprise an attachment mechanism for attaching to the car seat. Additionally, the first end of the at least one load lifter adjustment strap may further comprise a first fixed attachment strap having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is attached to the carrier body and to a first adjustment mechanism, and the second end is adjustable by means of the first adjustment mechanism; and a second adjustment mechanism attached to the first end, for adjusting the length of the at least one load lifter adjustment strap.

0018[0018] The middle harness system of the present invention may further comprise a middle attachment strap having a first end and a second end, for attaching the carrier body to the car seat, wherein the first end is attached to the carrier body and the second end is attached to a second releasable attachment mechanism, and a second fixed attachment strap having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is attached to the carrier body and the second end is attached to a third adjustment mechanism for adjusting the length of the middle harness system and thereby securing the carrier body to the car seat.

0019[0019] The shoulder harness system of the present invention may further comprise at least one shoulder strap having an upper end and a lower end, for securing the apparatus to the person, wherein the upper end is attached to the upper end of the carrier body and the lower end is attached to the lower end of the carrier body; and at least one shoulder pad attached to the at least one shoulder strap. The at least one shoulder strap may further comprise a first shoulder strap having an upper end and a lower end; and a second shoulder strap having an upper end and a lower end.

0020[0020] The shoulder harness system may further comprise a chest strap having a first end and a second end, the first end attached to the first shoulder strap between the upper end and the lower end of the first shoulder strap by one of a fourth adjustment mechanism, and the second end attached to the second shoulder strap between the upper end and the lower end of the second shoulder strap by another of the fourth adjustment mechanism, wherein the first and second ends are attached to a third releasable attachment mechanism. This permits the chest strap to be adjustable along the first and second shoulder straps by means of the fourth adjustment mechanisms, and to open and close by means of the third releasable attachment mechanism;

0021[0021] The upper end of the at least one shoulder strap may further comprise an upper shoulder harness attachment strap attached to the upper end of the carrier body and to a fifth adjustment mechanism, and an upper shoulder harness adjustment strap attached to the fifth adjustment mechanism. The lower end of the at least one shoulder strap may further comprise a lower shoulder harness attachment strap attached to the lower end of the carrier body and to a sixth adjustment mechanism, and a lower shoulder harness adjustment strap attached to the sixth adjustment mechanism. This permits the length of the at least one shoulder strap to be adjustable by means of the upper and lower shoulder harness adjustment straps.

0022[0022] The hip harness system of the present invention may further comprise a hip belt having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is attached to the carrier body and the second end is attached to a fourth releasable attachment mechanism, thereby securing the apparatus to the person. The hip belt may open and close by means of the fourth releasable attachment mechanism. The hip harness system may further comprise a hip belt adjustment strap attached to the second end of the hip belt and to the fourth releasable attachment mechanism, for adjusting the length of the hip belt.

0023[0023] The carrier body of the present invention may further comprise a front panel facing toward the person and a back panel facing toward the car seat, wherein the front panel and the back panel are attached to one another to form a pocket. The carrier body may further comprise a stiffening member shaped to fit inside the pocket, for providing support for the carrier body; and at least one semi-rigid stay attached to the stiffening member, for providing additional support for the carrier body. The carrier body may further comprise at least one pouch attached to the stiffening member, having an opening, wherein the at least one semi-rigid stay is inserted into the opening of the pouch.

0024[0024] The apparatus of the present invention may be integrated into a factory design of the car seat, or may be an after-market product separately available for attachment to the car seat.

0025[0025] The at least one harness system may further comprise a lower harness system attached to the carrier body at the lower end, wherein the lower harness system further comprises at least one attachment strap for securing the car seat to the carrier body.

0026[0026] Applicant further discloses an apparatus for carrying a car seat by a person, the apparatus comprising means for attaching the car seat to the person, and means for supporting the attachment means.

0027[0027] The attachment means of the present invention may further comprise means for attaching the supporting means to the car seat at an upper area of the car seat; means for attaching the supporting means to the car seat at a middle area of the car seat; means for securing the supporting means to the person at a shoulder region of the person; and means for securing the supporting means to the person at a hip region of the person. The attachment means may further comprise means for attaching the supporting means to the car seat at a lower area of the car seat.

0028[0028] The apparatus of the present invention may be designed such that the upper attachment means is integrated into a factory design of the car seat, or that the middle attachment means is integrated into a factory design of the car seat, or that the shoulder securing means is integrated into a factory design of the car seat, or that the hip securing means is integrated into a factory design of the car seat.

0029[0029] Applicant further discloses a method for carrying a car seat by a person, comprising the steps of providing at least one harness system for attaching the car seat to the person; and providing a carrier body, having an upper end and a lower end, for supporting the at least one harness system.

0030[0030] The method of the present invention may further comprise the steps of providing an upper harness system attached to the carrier body at the upper end; providing a middle harness system attached to the carrier body between the upper end and the lower end; providing a shoulder harness system attached to the carrier body at the upper end and the lower end; and providing a hip harness system attached to the carrier body at the lower end.

0031[0031] The method of the present invention may further comprise the step of providing a lower harness system attached to the carrier body at the lower end.

0032[0032] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not restrictive of the invention as claimed. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein by reference, and which constitute a part of this specification, illustrate certain embodiments of the invention and, together with the detailed description, serve to explain the principles of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

0033[0033]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an apparatus for carrying a car seat according to an embodiment of the present invention.

0034[0034]FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an apparatus for carrying a car seat, having additional adjustment capability for an upper harness system, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

0035[0035]FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a middle harness system of an apparatus for carrying a car seat according to an embodiment of the present invention.

0036[0036]FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an apparatus for carrying a car seat, having additional adjustment capability for an upper shoulder harness adjustment strap and a lower shoulder harness adjustment strap, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

0037[0037]FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an apparatus for carrying a car seat, having an internal stiffening member, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

0038[0038]FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an apparatus for carrying a car seat, having internal stays, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

0039[0039]FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an apparatus for carrying a car seat according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention.

0040[0040]FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an apparatus with a bottom platform for carrying a car seat according to a second alternate embodiment of the present invention.

0041[0041]FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a person using the apparatus of the present invention to carry a car seat along with an infant or child buckled in the car seat.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

0042[0042] Referring now to FIG. 1, a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown as carrier apparatus <b>1</b>. Carrier apparatus <b>1</b> preferably comprises carrier body <b>10</b>, upper harness system <b>100</b>, middle harness system <b>200</b>, shoulder harness system <b>400</b> and hip harness system <b>500</b>. Carrier body <b>10</b> may be fabricated from any of a variety of materials that provide adequate strength and flexibility to support the load of a car seat, or car seat together with an infant or child. Examples include various types of nylon cordura cloth, polyester duck, nylon pack cloth, or other suitable materials. Upper harness system <b>100</b>, middle harness system <b>200</b>, shoulder harness system <b>400</b> and hip harness system <b>500</b> may be fabricated from any of a variety of straps and padding materials that provide adequate strength and flexibility to support the load of a car seat, or car seat together with an infant or child. Examples include nylon webbing, polypropylene webbing, nylike webbing or other suitable materials. Such materials are well known and are readily available in a variety of sizes and configurations.

0043[0043] Upper harness system <b>100</b> together with middle harness system <b>200</b> serve to attach carrier body <b>10</b> to a child's or infant's car seat. Shoulder harness system <b>400</b> together with hip harness system <b>500</b> preferably attach carrier body <b>10</b> to a user.

0044[0044] Upper harness system <b>100</b> preferably further comprises load lifter adjustment strap <b>110</b>, having a first end <b>111</b> and a second end <b>112</b>. Load lifter adjustment strap <b>110</b> preferably is attached to first releasable attachment mechanism <b>120</b> at load lifter adjustment strap first end <b>111</b>. First releasable attachment mechanism <b>120</b> may be any suitable mechanism that permits load lifter adjustment straps <b>110</b> to be attached and released without slipping or accidental release. Examples of suitable mechanisms include side release type buckles and hook-and-loop closures, however, the present invention is not limited to these mechanisms. As embodied herein, carrier apparatus <b>1</b> preferably comprises two load lifter adjustment straps <b>110</b>, attached symmetrically at upper end <b>11</b> of carrier body <b>10</b> by two first releasable attachment mechanisms <b>120</b>.

0045[0045] First releasable attachment mechanism <b>120</b> may be attached to carrier body <b>10</b> by first fixed attachment strap <b>130</b>, as shown in FIG. 1. In this embodiment, first attachment strap <b>130</b> is a fixed length, sewn or otherwise attached to carrier body <b>10</b>.

0046[0046] Alternatively, first releasable attachment mechanism <b>120</b> may be attached to carrier body <b>10</b> by first fixed attachment strap <b>130</b> in conjunction with first adjustment mechanism <b>140</b>, as shown in FIG. 2. In this embodiment, first fixed attachment strap <b>130</b> further comprises first end <b>131</b> and second end <b>132</b>. First end <b>131</b> of first fixed attachment strap <b>130</b> preferably is sewn or otherwise attached to carrier body <b>10</b>. Second end <b>132</b> of first fixed attachment strap <b>130</b> preferably is fed through first adjustment mechanism <b>140</b>, such that first fixed attachment strap <b>130</b> can be lengthened or shortened. First adjustment mechanism <b>140</b> may be any suitable mechanism that permits first fixed attachment strap <b>130</b> to be shortened and lengthened without slipping or accidental release. Examples of suitable mechanisms include tri glide type buckles and hook-and-loop closures, however, the present invention is not limited to these mechanisms.

0047[0047] Load lifter adjustment strap <b>110</b>, at first end <b>111</b>, may alternatively be provided with second adjustment mechanism <b>150</b>, as shown in FIG. 2. Second adjustment mechanism <b>150</b> is attached to first releasable attachment mechanism <b>120</b>. Second adjustment mechanism <b>150</b> may be any suitable mechanism that permits load lifter adjustment straps <b>110</b> to be shortened and lengthened without slipping or accidental release. Examples of suitable mechanisms include tri glide type buckles and hook-and-loop closures, however, the present invention is not limited to these mechanisms.

0048[0048] Load lifter adjustment straps <b>110</b> may be lengthened or shortened by adjusting first adjustment mechanism <b>140</b> alone, adjusting second adjustment mechanism <b>150</b> alone, or adjusting first adjustment mechanism <b>140</b> and second adjustment mechanism <b>150</b> in combination. Lengthening or shortening of load lifter adjustment straps <b>110</b> permits adjustment of the height of the attached car seat and adjustment of the angle between the attached car seat and the user's back. This allows the user to control where the load feels most comfortable. Adjustment of the load lifter adjustment straps <b>110</b> may also be used to control the apparent center of gravity of the attached car seat relative to the user's own center of gravity, thus providing maximum user comfort.

0049[0049] Each second end <b>112</b> of load lifter adjustment straps <b>110</b> preferably is provided with attachment mechanism <b>160</b>. Car seats typically are provided with two or more holes or slots in the molded plastic back, through which the car seat shoulder harness straps feed from the back of the car seat to the seat portion, securing the infant or child in the car seat. Attachment mechanism <b>160</b> may be any mechanism suitable for anchoring load lifter adjustment straps <b>110</b> to a car seat, such that attachment mechanism <b>160</b> does not slip out of the car seat slots; for example, a metal tri glide type buckle. Other attachment mechanisms that provide the same functionality are considered to be within the scope of the present invention.

0050[0050] Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 3, carrier apparatus <b>1</b> preferably further comprises middle harness system <b>200</b>. Middle harness system <b>200</b> preferably comprises middle attachment strap <b>210</b>, having first end <b>211</b> and second end <b>212</b>; second releasable attachment mechanism <b>220</b>; second fixed attachment strap <b>230</b>, having first end <b>231</b> and second end <b>232</b>; and third adjustment mechanism <b>240</b>. First end <b>211</b> of middle attachment strap <b>210</b> preferably is sewn or otherwise attached to carrier body <b>10</b>. Second end <b>212</b> of middle attachment strap <b>210</b> preferably is attached to second releasable attachment mechanism <b>220</b>. Second releasable attachment mechanism <b>220</b> preferably is attached to second fixed attachment strap <b>230</b>, which in turn is threaded through third adjustment mechanism <b>240</b>. Second releasable attachment mechanism <b>220</b> may be any suitable mechanism that permits middle attachment strap <b>210</b> to be attached and released without slipping or accidental release. Examples of suitable mechanisms include side release type buckles and hook-and-loop closures, however, the present invention is not limited to these mechanisms.

0051[0051] First end <b>231</b> of second fixed attachment strap <b>230</b> preferably is sewn or otherwise attached to carrier body <b>10</b> as shown in FIG. 3. Second end <b>232</b> of second fixed attachment strap <b>230</b> preferably is threaded through third adjustment mechanism <b>240</b>, such that second fixed attachment strap <b>230</b> can be lengthened or shortened. Third adjustment mechanism <b>240</b> may be any suitable mechanism that permits second fixed attachment strap <b>230</b> to be shortened and lengthened without slipping or accidental release. Examples of suitable mechanisms include tri glide type buckles and hook-and-loop closures, however, the present invention is not limited to these mechanisms.

0052[0052] In addition to the shoulder harness strap slots described above, car seats typically are provided with one or more large holes or slots in the molded plastic back, through which the vehicle seat belt may be threaded and attached to the seat belt buckle, thereby securing the car seat in the vehicle. Carrier body <b>10</b> preferably is attached to a car seat by threading middle harness system <b>200</b> through the seat belt holes or holes.

0053[0053] As embodied herein, carrier body <b>10</b> preferably is attached to a car seat by both upper harness system <b>100</b> and middle harness system <b>200</b>. To attach upper harness system <b>100</b>, load lifter adjustment straps <b>110</b> preferably are attached to a car seat by means of attachment mechanism <b>160</b>. Two attachment mechanisms <b>160</b> preferably are inserted through two of the factory-made car seat shoulder harness slots, such that the attachment mechanisms <b>160</b> are secure and do not slip out. To attach middle harness system <b>220</b>, second releasable attachment mechanism <b>220</b> is opened, so that middle attachment strap <b>210</b> can be threaded through the car seat seat belt hole or holes, and then second releasable attachment mechanism <b>220</b> is fastened. Middle harness system <b>200</b> may be tightened by the user by pulling either middle attachment strap <b>210</b> second end <b>212</b> through second releasable attachment mechanism <b>220</b>, second fixed attachment strap <b>230</b> second end <b>232</b> through third adjustment mechanism <b>240</b>, or by a combination of both. The present invention is designed to provide a secure connection between carrier apparatus <b>1</b> and a car seat, by means of the adjustability of upper harness system <b>100</b> and middle harness system <b>200</b>.

0054[0054] The attachment of carrier apparatus <b>1</b>, with a car seat attached by upper harness system <b>100</b> and middle harness system <b>200</b>, to the user will now be described. A user carrying a car seat by means of the present invention, with an infant or child secured therein, is shown in FIG. 9. In this illustration, the carrier apparatus is attached to the user's back. It is contemplated by the present invention, however, that the carrier apparatus may also be carried on the user's front or chest, with the car seat facing forward. Carrier apparatus <b>1</b> preferably is attached to a user via shoulder harness system <b>400</b> together with hip harness system <b>500</b>.

0055[0055] Referring again to FIG. 1, shoulder harness system <b>400</b> preferably further comprises shoulder strap <b>410</b>, to which shoulder pad <b>420</b> is attached. Shoulder pad <b>420</b> is intended to provide a cushion from the weight of an attached car seat, or the combined weight of an attached car seat and child. As embodied herein, carrier apparatus <b>1</b> preferably comprises two shoulder straps <b>410</b>, attached symmetrically at upper end <b>11</b> of carrier body <b>10</b>. As shown in FIG. 1, the two shoulder straps <b>410</b> are parallel to each other, however the present invention contemplates that shoulder straps <b>410</b> could be provided crossing each other. The present invention contemplates other embodiments (not shown) utilizing a single strap mounted on one side of or diagonally across carrier body <b>10</b>. Other configurations that provide comfort, ease of use, economical manufacture, or other advantages are considered to be within the scope of the present invention.

0056[0056] As embodied herein, each shoulder strap <b>410</b> preferably comprises upper end <b>411</b> and lower end <b>412</b>. Shoulder strap <b>410</b> may be a fixed length, sewn or otherwise attached to carrier body <b>10</b>.

0057[0057] Shoulder harness system <b>400</b> preferably further comprises chest strap <b>450</b>, having first end <b>451</b> and second end <b>452</b>. First end <b>451</b> preferably is attached to one shoulder strap <b>410</b> by means of fourth adjustment mechanism <b>460</b>, while second end <b>452</b> is attached to the other shoulder strap <b>410</b> by means of another fourth adjustment mechanism <b>460</b>. Fourth adjustment mechanism <b>460</b> may be any suitable mechanism that permits chest strap <b>450</b> to be moved up or down along shoulder strap <b>410</b> without slipping or accidental release. Movement of chest strap <b>450</b> relative to shoulder strap <b>410</b> permits the user to adjust chest strap <b>450</b> for maximum upper torso comfort and effectiveness. A preferred example of a suitable mechanism for fourth adjustment mechanism <b>460</b> is a sternum strap slider, however, the present invention is not limited to this mechanism.

0058[0058] Chest strap <b>450</b> first end <b>451</b> and second end <b>452</b> further are attached to third releasable attachment mechanism <b>470</b>, which may be opened by the user to facilitate putting on and taking off carrier apparatus <b>1</b>. Third releasable attachment mechanism <b>470</b> may be any suitable mechanism that permits chest strap <b>450</b> to be attached and released without slipping or accidental release. Chest strap <b>450</b> first end <b>451</b> and second end <b>452</b> may also be attached to third releasable attachment mechanism <b>470</b> in such a way as to permit adjustment in length of chest strap <b>450</b>, again to provide maximum upper torso comfort to the user and maximum support of the load carried when using carrier apparatus <b>1</b>. Examples of suitable mechanisms include side release type buckles and hook-and-loop closures, however, the present invention is not limited to these mechanisms.

0059[0059] Referring now to FIG. 4, shoulder harness system <b>400</b> may further comprise upper shoulder harness adjustment strap <b>430</b>. Upper shoulder harness adjustment strap <b>430</b> preferably is a modification of shoulder strap <b>410</b> upper end <b>411</b>, such that upper shoulder harness adjustment strap <b>430</b> is threaded through fifth adjustment mechanism <b>480</b>, and permits easy lengthening and shortening of shoulder strap <b>410</b>. Fifth adjustment mechanism <b>480</b> preferably is attached to upper shoulder harness attachment strap <b>431</b>. Upper shoulder harness attachment strap <b>431</b> may be a fixed length, sewn or otherwise attached to carrier body <b>10</b> at upper end <b>11</b>. Fifth adjustment mechanism <b>480</b> may be any suitable mechanism, such as a buckle or hoop-and-loop closure, that permits shoulder strap <b>410</b> to be shortened and lengthened without slipping or accidental release, to allow for adjustment to fit any size user. A preferred example of a suitable mechanism is a duck-billed ladder lock type buckle, however, the present invention is not limited to this mechanism.

0060[0060] With continuing reference to FIG. 4, shoulder harness system <b>400</b> may further comprise lower shoulder harness adjustment strap <b>440</b>. Lower shoulder harness adjustment strap <b>440</b> preferably is a modification of shoulder strap <b>410</b> lower end <b>412</b>, such that lower shoulder harness adjustment strap <b>440</b> is threaded through sixth adjustment mechanism <b>490</b>, and permits easy lengthening and shortening of shoulder strap <b>410</b>. Sixth adjustment mechanism <b>490</b> preferably is attached to lower shoulder harness attachment strap <b>441</b>. Lower shoulder harness attachment strap <b>441</b> may be a fixed length, sewn or otherwise attached to carrier body <b>10</b> at lower end <b>12</b>. Sixth adjustment mechanism <b>490</b> may be any suitable mechanism, such as a buckle or hoop-and-loop closure, that permits shoulder strap <b>410</b> to be shortened and lengthened without slipping or accidental release, to allow for adjustment to fit any size user. A preferred example of a suitable mechanism is a duck-billed ladder lock type buckle, however, the present invention is not limited to this mechanism.

0061[0061] Referring again to FIG. 1, carrier apparatus <b>1</b> preferably is further attached to user via hip harness system <b>500</b>. It is contemplated by the present invention, however, that hip harness system <b>500</b> may be detachable, and therefore used at the option of the user. Hip harness system <b>500</b> preferably further comprises hip belt <b>510</b>, having first end <b>511</b> and second end <b>512</b>; hip belt adjustment strap <b>520</b>; and fourth releasable attachment mechanism <b>530</b>. Hip belt <b>510</b> preferably is attached to carrier body <b>10</b> at first end <b>511</b>. First end <b>511</b> preferably is sewn or otherwise attached to carrier body <b>10</b>. Hip belt <b>510</b> second end <b>512</b> preferably is attached to hip belt adjustment strap <b>520</b>. Hip belt adjustment strap <b>520</b> preferably is threaded (not shown) through fourth releasable attachment mechanism <b>530</b> so as to permit adjustment of hip belt <b>510</b> to provide maximum comfort and effectiveness for the user. Proper adjustment of hip belt <b>510</b> may substantially assist with carrying a heavy load of a car seat plus infant or child. Fourth releasable attachment mechanism <b>530</b> may be any suitable mechanism that permits hip belt adjustment strap <b>520</b> to be released, fastened, shortened and lengthened without slipping or accidental release. Examples of suitable mechanisms include side release type buckles and hook-and-loop closures, however, the present invention is not limited to these mechanisms.

0062[0062] As embodied herein, carrier body <b>10</b> is further provided with internal structures that are designed to increase the stability of carrier body <b>10</b>, and thereby improve the load-carrying capacity of carrier apparatus <b>1</b>. Referring now to FIG. 5, carrier body <b>10</b> preferably further comprises front panel <b>14</b> and back panel <b>15</b>, which may be sewn, glued, or otherwise attached around the edges, creating a pocket (not shown). Front panel <b>14</b> preferably is covered with a mesh aerospacer or similar material, which provides ventilation to the user's back. Carrier body <b>10</b> preferably further is provided with an opening (not shown), closable by a zipper (not shown), through which internal structures preferably are inserted into the pocket.

0063[0063] Carrier body <b>10</b> preferably further comprises stiffening member <b>20</b>. Stiffening member <b>20</b> may be fabricated from fiberglass or high-density polyethylene plastic. Such materials are well-known and are readily available. Stiffening member <b>20</b> preferably is a thin sheet that is shaped to fit inside the pocket created by front panel <b>14</b> and back panel <b>15</b> of carrier body <b>10</b>. Stiffening member <b>20</b> may extend the length of carrier body <b>10</b> from upper end <b>11</b> to lower end <b>12</b>, or may be of any other shape, length or configuration that is desirable for support, comfort, or other purposes. As embodied herein, stiffening member <b>20</b> may be inserted through the zippered opening in carrier body <b>10</b>, and likewise removed.

0064[0064] Referring now to FIG. 6, carrier body <b>10</b> preferably further comprises at least one stay <b>30</b>. Stay <b>30</b> preferably is a flattened, elongated bar, and may be encased in a plastic covering for ease of handling and insertion. Stay <b>30</b> preferably is fabricated from aluminum, however, titanium, steel, or other suitable metal, or plastic or another suitable material may be used. As embodied herein, stay <b>30</b> may be inserted into a pouch (not shown) of the same shape as the stay. The pouch may be fabricated from any suitable fabric or material, and may be sewn, glued or otherwise attached to stiffening member <b>20</b>. Other means of attaching to stiffening member <b>20</b> or inserting stay <b>30</b> into carrier body <b>10</b> are contemplated by and considered to be within the scope of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 6, carrier body <b>10</b> is preferably provided with two stays <b>30</b>, arranged vertically on either side of stiffening member <b>20</b>, within carrier body <b>10</b>. Stay <b>30</b> may extend the length of carrier body <b>10</b> from upper end <b>11</b> to lower end <b>12</b>, or may be of any other shape, length or configuration that is desirable for support, comfort, or other purposes. In combination, stiffening member <b>20</b> and stays <b>30</b> provide a contoured, semi-rigid body frame. This contoured platform supports the load of the attached car seat, or attached car seat plus infant or child, and serves to distribute the load over a larger area of the user's back. As contemplated by the present invention, the semi-rigid design of carrier body <b>10</b> avoids single points of excessive pressure on the user's back.

0065[0065] Referring now to FIG. 8, an alternate embodiment is shown as carrier apparatus <b>2</b>. Carrier apparatus <b>2</b> preferably comprises carrier body <b>10</b>, shoulder harness system <b>400</b> and hip harness system <b>500</b>. As embodied herein, shoulder harness system <b>400</b> further comprises shoulder strap <b>410</b>, having upper end <b>411</b> and lower end <b>412</b>. Upper end <b>411</b> preferably attaches to a car seat through the shoulder harness strap slots typically provided in the back of the car seat. Lower end <b>412</b> preferably attaches to a car seat through the seat belt hole or holes typically provided in the back of the car seat. Hip harness system <b>500</b> further comprises hip harness attachment strap <b>501</b>, hip belt <b>510</b>, hip belt adjustment strap <b>520</b> and fourth releasable attachment mechanism <b>530</b>. Hip belt <b>510</b> is also adjustable by means of fourth releasable attachment mechanism <b>530</b>, to provide maximum comfort and effectiveness for the user. Proper adjustment of hip belt <b>510</b> may substantially assist with carrying a heavy load of a car seat plus infant or child. Fourth releasable attachment mechanism <b>530</b> may be any suitable mechanism that permits hip belt adjustment strap <b>520</b> to be released, fastened, shortened and lengthened without slipping or accidental release. Examples of suitable mechanisms include tri glide type buckles and hook-and-loop closures, however, the present invention is not limited to these mechanisms.

0066[0066] Carrier apparatus <b>2</b> is additionally attached to the car seat by means of hip harness attachment strap <b>501</b>, through the factory-made seat belt hole or holes.

0067[0067] Carrier body <b>10</b>, having upper end <b>11</b> and lower end <b>12</b>, is attached to a car seat and to shoulder harness system <b>400</b> and hip harness system <b>500</b> by shoulder strap upper end <b>411</b>, lower end <b>412</b>, and hip harness attachment strap <b>501</b>. As contemplated by the present invention, carrier body <b>10</b> may be rigid or semi-rigid to provide support for carrying the car seat, or car seat plus attached child.

0068[0068] One or more adjustment mechanisms and releasable attachment mechanisms (not shown), such as those described above, may also be provided in carrier apparatus <b>2</b> to permit adjustment of the various straps for maximum comfort and effectiveness.

0069[0069] Referring now to FIG. 8, an alternate embodiment is shown as carrier apparatus <b>3</b>. Carrier apparatus <b>3</b> preferably comprises carrier body <b>10</b>, shoulder harness system <b>400</b> and hip harness system <b>500</b>. Carrier apparatus <b>3</b> preferably is designed to facilitate attachment of certain models of child or infant car seats that are otherwise difficult to attach to a carrier apparatus of the present invention. Carrier body platform <b>13</b> is provided as an attachment area for such car seat models. Platform <b>13</b> may be rigid, semi-rigid, or other configurations that allow for attachment of such car seat models. Carrier apparatus <b>3</b> preferably further comprises lower harness system <b>300</b>. Lower harness system <b>300</b> preferably further comprises third attachment strap <b>310</b> and fourth attachment strap <b>320</b>. Third and fourth attachment straps <b>310</b> and <b>320</b> preferably attach a car seat to carrier body platform <b>13</b>.

0070[0070] As embodied herein, shoulder harness system <b>400</b> further comprises shoulder strap <b>410</b>, having upper end <b>411</b> and lower end <b>412</b>. Upper end <b>411</b> preferably attaches to carrier body upper end <b>11</b>. Shoulder strap lower end <b>412</b> preferably attaches to carrier body lower end <b>10</b>, and may also attach to a car seat through the seat belt hole or holes typically provided in the back of the car seat. Hip harness system <b>500</b> further comprises hip harness attachment strap <b>501</b>, hip belt <b>510</b>, hip belt adjustment strap <b>520</b>, and fourth releasable attachment mechanism <b>530</b>. Hip belt <b>510</b> is also adjustable by means of fourth releasable attachment mechanism <b>530</b>, to provide maximum comfort and effectiveness for the user. Proper adjustment of hip belt <b>510</b> may substantially assist with carrying a heavy load of a car seat plus infant or child. Fourth releasable attachment mechanism <b>530</b> may be any suitable mechanism that permits hip belt adjustment strap <b>520</b> to be released, fastened, shortened and lengthened without slipping or accidental release. Examples of suitable mechanisms include side release type buckles and hook-and-loop closures, however, the present invention is not limited to these mechanisms.

0071[0071] One or more adjustment mechanisms and releasable attachment mechanisms (not shown), such as those described above, may also be provided in carrier apparatus <b>3</b> to permit adjustment of the various straps for maximum comfort and effectiveness.

0072[0072] It will be apparent to those skilled in that art that various modifications and variations can be made in the fabrication and configuration of the present invention without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. For example, one or more of the harness systems described above may be altered as to the number and placement of straps, adjustment mechanisms and attachment mechanisms. Further, the shape and placement of the stiffening member and stays in the carrier body may be altered to achieve desired comfort or load carry capacity objectives. A variety of materials may be used to fabricate the components of the apparatus of the invention. Also, the hip harness system may be detachable.

0073[0073] In addition, one or more of the harness systems or components thereof may be integrated into the factory design of a car seat, rather than being separately purchased as an after-market product. In particular, it may be desirable to manufacture a car seat with the load lifter adjustment straps and attachment mechanism pre-attached to the car seat. In this configuration, the load lifter straps would attach to and detach from the carrier body of the present invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications and variations of the invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.