MULTIFUNCTIONAL BLANKET AND COVERING DEVICE

Abstract

The present invention relates to multifunctional blanket for covering a standard rear facing infant carrier, a baby, a stroller, a child seating device, a nursing woman, and other child carriers. The multifunctional blanket comprising (a) a reversible outer cover, in which the outer cover has opposite sides of equal length, a top portion, and a bottom portion, wherein the top and bottom portions have the same width; (b) a reversible inner cover, the inner cover having opposite sides of equal length, a top portion, and a bottom portion, wherein the top and bottom portions have the same width; and (c) a set of edge-fastening device attached to each opposite sides of the cover. The present disclosure provides numerous functionality of infant carrying gear all in one multifunctional blanket and covering device, eliminating the use of other gear, and provides coverage and protection for the baby from social and environmental elements.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/518,350, filed May 3, 2011, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention generally relates to the field of baby gear and/or infant care. More specifically, the preferred embodiment of the present invention pertains to a multifunctional blanket and covering device.

[0004] 2. Discussion of the Prior Art

[0005] The following websites were available as of the filing date of the present application, and describe products which were then currently available:

[0006] A three-in-one baby car seat cover, a shopping cart cover, and a nursing cover can be found at http//sproutshell.com/. However, the product offered by http://sproutshell.com/ does not provide the utility, security, and ventilation while the product is in use.

[0007] A baby car seat cover, a baby shopping cart cover, a nursing cover, and a baby car seat blanket can be found at http://www.hipncozy.com/. However, each product by http://www.hipncozy.com/ mentioned above is offered for sale as separate accessories and does not intend to be used as a multi-purpose item.

[0008] Kozy Kid Inc. offered an infant carrier cover at www.kozykid.com. However, Kozy Kid infant carrier cover requires a long zipper to permit access to an infant and the cover does not intend to be used as a multi-purpose item.

[0009] Teddy Toes offered an infant carrier cover was shown at http://gobaby.cc/index.php, has an opening for the face of the infant which is shielded by a standup collar, and a drop front comprises a large flap that is double snapped to the cover to allow access to the baby without removing the cover. However, there is no flap that covers the face of the infant and the cover does not intend to be used as a multi-purpose item.

[0010] A baby car seat cover and a baby shopping cart cover can be found at http://jjcolecollections.com/. However, each product by http://www.thepeanutshell.com/ mentioned above is offered for sale as separate accessories and does not intend to be used as a multi-purpose item.

[0011] A nursing cover and a baby shopping cart cover can be found at http://www.thepeanutshell.com/. However, each product by http://www.thepeanutshell.com/ mentioned above is offered for sale as separate accessories and does not intend to be used as a multi-purpose item.

[0012] None of the above mentioned patents and/or publications disclose the unique combination of features, advantages, and multi-function purposes of the present invention.

[0013] This "Discussion of the Background" section is provided for background information only. The statements in this "Discussion of the Background" are not an admission that the subject matter disclosed in this "Discussion of the Background" section constitutes prior art to the present disclosure, and no part of this "Discussion of the Background" section may be used as an admission that any part of this application, including this "Discussion of the Background" section, constitutes prior art to the present disclosure.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Embodiments of the present invention relate to multifunctional blanket for covering a standard rear facing infant carrier, a baby, a stroller, a child seating device, a nursing woman, and other child carriers. In the present aspect, the multifunctional blanket comprises (a) a reversible outer cover, in which the outer cover has opposite sides of equal length, a top portion, and a bottom portion, wherein the top and bottom portions have the same width; (b) a reversible inner cover, the inner cover having opposite sides of equal length, a top portion, and a bottom portion, wherein the top and bottom portions have the same width; and (c) a set of edge-fastening device attached to each opposite sides of said cover.

[0015] The present disclosure advantageously provides numerous functionality and versatility of infant caring gear in one multifunctional blanket and covering device. Especially, eliminating the use of other infant caring gear to provide adequate coverage and protection for the baby and/or person from social and environmental elements and/or disruptions (e.g., foreign particles disturbances, noises, direct sunlight, wind, and/or rain).

[0016] Additional advantages include, but are not limited to enabling the multifunctional blanket to be placed on the infant carrier seat while the car seat sunshade is fully extended and the car seat carrying bar is in its upright and locked position without disengaging the safety belts of the seat or disrupting the infant in the car seat. Furthermore, the multifunctional blanket can be secured to the car seat carrying bar to prevent the multifunctional blanket from moving or slipping off the car seat carrier. The multifunctional blanket also provides easy access to the carrying bar, access to interact with the seating infant, as well as providing safe ventilation while the multifunctional blanket is fastened to the car seat carrying bar. The multifunctional blanket can be used to provide warmth for the child seated in the car seat or in a stroller, or as a personal poncho. The multifunctional blanket can also provide personal privacy for a nursing mother out on the go. The multifunctional blanket can also be used to cover any standard shopping cart or high chair while the child is seated on the shopping cart or high chair for sanitary purposes.

[0017] These and other advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those familiar with the different types of blankets, cover for a nursing mother, and cover for infant in a car seat, a stroller, and other child carrying devices when reviewing the following detailed description, and more particularly defined by the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a side-view of a multifunctional blanket for protecting and keeping a baby warm while being transported in the infant car seat.

[0019] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a front-view of the multifunctional blanket of FIG. 1 being carried by a person.

[0020] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a side-view of the multifunctional blanket of the present disclosure covering a baby seated in a stroller and/or a stand-alone stroller.

[0021] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a top-down view of the multifunctional blanket of the present disclosure showing the center opening while being used as a general-purpose blanket.

[0022] FIG. 5 is a diagram sharing a front-view of the multifunctional blanket of the present disclosure covering a nursing woman.

[0023] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a side-view of the multifunctional blanket of the present disclosure covering a shopping cart.

[0024] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a side-view of the multifunctional blanket of the present disclosure covering a high chair.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] Reference will now be made in detail to preferred embodiment of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. While the invention will be described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiment provided below, the preferred embodiment is not intended to limit the invention. On the contrary, the invention is intended to cover alternatives, modifications and equivalents that may be included within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Furthermore, in the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding. However, the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the present disclosure.

[0026] For the sake of convenience and simplicity, the meaning of "/" refers to "and/or" or "or", depending on the context of use and the compatibility of the terms before and/or after "/". In addition, for the sake of convenience and simplicity, the terms "coupled to," "connected to," and "in communication with" mean direct or indirect coupling, connection or communication unless the context indicates otherwise. Furthermore, for the sake of convenience and simplicity, the terms "use" and "configured" may be used interchangeable. Also, for the sake of convenience and simplicity, the terms "multifunction" and "multipurpose" may be used interchangeable. These terms are generally used interchangeably herein, but are generally given their art-recognized meanings.

[0027] Also, for convenience and simplicity, the terms "multifunctional blanket", "multipurpose blanket", or "baby cover" may be used interchangeably with respect to intended uses and/or functions of an apparatus. In addition, the terms "item," "object," and "article" are used interchangeably, and wherever one such term is used, it also encompasses the other terms. In the present disclosure, a "major surface" of a structure or feature is a surface defined at least in part by the largest axis of the structure or feature (e.g., if the structure is round and has a radius greater than its thickness, the radial surface[s] is/are the major surface of the structure, and if the structure has three dimensions defined by a length, a width and a height or thickness, the major surface[s] of the structure may be the surface[s] defined by the two largest dimensions), and if the structure is substantially rectangular on all sides, the major surface is defined by the two largest axes.

[0028] The invention, in its various aspects, will be explained in greater detail below with regard to the exemplary embodiment.

[0029] In the present aspect, the present disclosure relates to a multifunctional and/or multipurpose blanket that covers a standard rear facing infant carrier, a baby and/or an individual, a stroller, a child seating device, a nursing woman, and other various child carriers. In the preferred embodiment, the multifunctional blanket comprises (a) a reversible outer cover, in which the outer cover has opposite sides of equal length, a top portion, and a bottom portion, wherein the top and bottom portions have the same width; (b) a reversible inner cover, the inner cover having opposite sides of equal length, a top portion, and a bottom portion, wherein the top and bottom portions have the same width; and (c) a set of edge-fastening device attached to each opposite sides of the cover.

[0030] FIG. 1 shows an exemplary side-view of the multifunctional blanket 100 for protecting and keeping a baby warm while being transported in an infant seat carrier. The multifunctional blanket 100 may be used with any standard rear-facing infant car seat 110 as an infant car seat blanket cover 100. The multipurpose baby blanket 100 measures approximately 30 inches×45 inches at its widest and longest points, respectively.

[0031] Referring to FIG. 1, the blanket cover 100 is placed over the top of any rear-facing infant car seat 110 with the car seat sunshade fully extended, and the car seat carrying bar 115 in its upright and locked position without disengaging the safety belts of the seat or disrupting the infant in the car seat 110.

[0032] Each side and/or end (e.g., both fabric sides) of the blanket cover is reversible. Referring to FIG. 1, the multifunctional blanket 100 comprises a reversible outer cover 101, in which the outer cover 101 has opposite sides 101A of equal length, a top portion 101B, and a bottom portion 101C, wherein the top and bottom portions 101B, 101C, respectively, having the same width. In addition, the multifunctional blanket 100 comprises a reversible inner cover 102 (as shown in FIG. 4), the inner cover 102 (as shown in FIG. 4) having opposite sides 102A (as shown in FIG. 4) of equal length, a top portion 102B (as shown in FIG. 4), and a bottom portion 102C (as shown in FIG. 4), wherein the top and bottom portions 102B, 102C, respectively (as shown in FIG. 4), having the same width. Furthermore, a set of edge-fastening device 103, as shown in FIG. 1, are attached to each opposite side of the cover. The reversible outer cover 101 can be turned over to be used as the reversible inner cover 102 (as shown in FIG. 4). Similarly, the reversible inner cover 102 (as shown in FIG. 4) can be turned over to be used as the reversible outer cover 101.

[0033] The multifunctional blanket 100 is measured to be approximately within a range of from 30 inches by 40 to 45 inches (e.g., more specifically 30 inches by 40 inches), enabling optimal ventilation and avoiding excessive fabric to be dragged while in use.

[0034] The present embodiment of this invention has a square center opening 104 with a flap cover 105. The center opening 104 is positioned in equal proportionality from the opposite sides 101A and the top and bottom portions 101B, 101C, respectively. The center opening is measured to have equal length and width. The center opening is placed over the infant car seat carrying handle whilst in its upright and locked position. The center opening measures approximately eight inches in length and eight inches in width. Alternatively, the square opening can also be of similar size with a different shape. After the infant car seat carrying handle placed or protruded through the opening, the blanket may be secured to the handle using a hook and loop fastener or similar flap-fastening device 106 (i.e. snaps, buttons, zipper, hook and eye, etc.) that may be positioned on the flap 105. The opening 104 enables the carrying handle 115 to protrude through the blanket 100 and be readily accessible to the caregiver (e.g., a device handler). The hook and loop fastener or similar flap-fastening device 106 secures the blanket 100 to the carrying handle 115.

[0035] Referring to FIG. 2, the present embodiment offers the caregiver and/or device handler the option of grasping the exposed handle 115 with a one-hand grip, or alternatively placing the body of the exposed handle 115 on the surface of the flexed inner elbow and/or the inner forearm for ease of transport. The flap 105 of the center opening 104 comprises a ventilating peek-a-boo window, enabling optimal ventilation and accessibility to interact with the seated infant in the infant car seat 115. The exterior fabric, outer cover 101, or outside facing fabric (e.g., side opposite of what the infant sees while in the infant car seat) can be the same or different as the interior, inner cover 102, or inside facing fabric (e.g., side that the infant will see while seated in the infant car seat).

[0036] The flap and/or flap cover 105 comprises three equal sides of approximately 8 inches for each side. The flap and/or flap cover 105 further comprises a flap-fastening device 106.

[0037] Optionally, there can be two separate drawstrings and/or elastic materials that pull at either end of the blanket cover 100. The optional drawstring or elastic material design allows for use in either direction, without a designated front or back orientation. The optional drawstring feature pulls can be individually or concurrently tightened to securely fasten the blanket cover 100 to the infant car seat 110.

[0038] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, there are two sets of ties or edge-fastening device 103 on either side of the blanket cover 100, enabling the option to secure each side to the carrying handle 115 in order to prevent the blanket from moving. Each tie or edge-fastening device 103 is approximately within a range of from 12 inches by 2 to 3 inches. Other fasteners in similar function can also be used (i.e. hook and loop fastener).

[0039] Referring to FIG. 3, the multipurpose blanket 100 of the present disclosure may be attached to a single-seat stroller, a double stroller (e.g., side-by-side or tandem), by tying each set of ties or edge-fastening device 103 onto either side bar of the stroller. In this manner, the blanket cover 100 serves as a secure blanket for the infant/toddler while seated in a single-seat stroller, double tandem stroller, or double side-by-side stroller.

[0040] Referring to FIG. 4, the multifunctional blanket 100 in its fully extended position having the flap cover 105 closed over the center opening 104 can be used as a general-purpose infant/child blanket (e.g., while a baby is sleeping, playing, sitting, and/or general activities on the blanket). The flap fastening device 106 can be used to secure the flap cover 105 to its fully extended position enabling the multifunctional blanket to be used as a general-purpose blanket.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 5, the multifunctional blanket 100 may be used as a nursing cover. The nursing mother can place her head through the center opening 104 and adjust the blanket as necessary to accommodate an infant nursing. For additional comfort or privacy, the set of ties or edge-fastening device 103 on either side of the blanket cover 100 may be utilized.

[0042] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the blanket may also be used as both a shopping cart and a high chair cover. The square flap 105 of the center opening 104 is placed on the bottom of the shopping cart or high chair with the hook and loop fastener or flap-fastening device 106 released towards the front of the shopping cart or high chair, where the infant or toddler legs are positioned. The blanket 100 is then adjusted to fit and cover, accordingly. The infant or toddler is then placed in the shopping cart or high chair. The flap and/or flap cover 105 is fully extended to enable any safety straps to be pulled through the center opening 104 to secure the child to the shopping cart or high chair seating. The ties or the edge-fastening device 103 being on opposite sides can be used to secure the blanket and encase the exposed areas of the seating area to either the shopping cart or high chair in this manner.

[0043] In addition, the blanket 100 may be used as a personal poncho (not shown) for warmth. First, the individual releases the hook and loop fastener or flap-fastening device 106. Next, the square or center opening 104 is positioned over the individual's head, and then the blanket 100 may be adjusted for comfort. The ties or the edge-fastening device 103 on opposite sides can be used to secure the blanket in this manner. Alternatively, the blanket 100 may be folded in half and attached to various infant carriers worn by an individual.

[0044] Furthermore, any decorative ornaments (i.e., cutouts of animals, letters, objects, in various colors and materials, etc.) may be placed anywhere on either side of the blanket cover 100 (e.g., outer or inner covers). Decorative ornaments may range in size, design, material, and location. In addition, decorative ornaments may be adhered to the blanket in a variety of methods to include, but not limited to stitching, adhesive, hook and loop fastener, hook and eye, snap, button, etc. Learning toys may include, but are not limited to colors, shapes, alphabet letters, numbers, animals, vehicles, etc. These learning toys may be placed on the inner cover 102 of FIG. 2 (e.g., inside facing the infant while sitting in an infant car seat). These learning toys may be adhered to the blanket cover in a variety of methods which may include, but are not limited to, stitching, adhesive, hook and loop fastener, hook and eye, etc.

[0045] The multifunctional blanket 100 may include a pocket measuring approximately three inches by five inches. The pocket may be affixed to either side of the blanket cover (e.g., outer or inner cover) and on any location of the blanket cover 100.

[0046] In addition, a carrying case, such as a blanket cover bag, may be used to house the blanket cover 100. The carrying case may be made in a variety of shapes and sizes. A "D-ring" may be included on the blanket cover bag or case to attach to a carrying device (e.g., diaper bag, purse, stroller, etc.).

[0047] Personalization can also be used to identify the blanket. A decorative border may be positioned around the blanket in a variety of widths, lengths, and materials.

[0048] Thus, the present disclosure advantageously provides numerous functionality and versatility of infant caring gear in one multifunctional blanket and covering device. Especially, eliminating the use of other infant caring gear to provide adequate coverage and protection for the baby and/or person from social and environmental elements and/or disruptions (e.g., foreign particles disturbances, noises, direct sunlight, wind, and/or rain).

[0049] Additional advantages include, but are not limited to enabling the multifunctional blanket to be placed on the infant carrier seat (e.g., a standard rear facing car seat) while the car seat sunshade is fully extended and the car seat carrying bar is in its upright and locked position without disengaging the safety belts of the seat or disrupting the infant in the car seat. Furthermore, the multifunctional blanket can be secured to the car seat carrying bar to prevent the multifunctional blanket from moving or slipping off the car seat carrier. The multifunctional blanket also provides easy access to the carrying bar, access to interact with the seating infant, as well as providing safe ventilation while the multifunctional blanket is fastened to the car seat carrying bar. The multifunctional blanket can be used to provide warmth for the child seated in the car seat or in a stroller, or as a personal poncho. The multifunctional blanket can also provide personal privacy for a nursing mother out on the go. The multifunctional blanket can also be used to cover any standard shopping cart or high chair while the child is seated on the shopping cart or high chair for sanitary purpose.

Conclusion

[0050] Thus, the preferred embodiment of the present disclosure provide a multifunctional blanket for covering a standard rear facing infant carrier, a baby, a stroller, a child seating device, a nursing woman, and other child carriers. The present disclosure advantageously provides numerous functionality and versatility of infant caring gear in one multifunctional blanket and covering device. Especially, eliminating the use of other infant caring gear to provide adequate coverage and protection for the baby and/or person from social and environmental elements and/or disruptions (e.g., foreign particles disturbances, noises, direct sunlight, wind, and/or rain).

[0051] Additional advantages include, but are not limited to enabling the multifunctional blanket to be placed on the infant carrier seat while the car seat sunshade is fully extended and the car seat carrying bar is in its upright and locked position without disengaging the safety belts of the seat or disrupting the infant in the car seat. Furthermore, the multifunctional blanket can be secured to the car seat carrying bar to prevent the multifunctional blanket from moving or slipping off the car seat carrier. The multifunctional blanket also provides easy access to the carrying bar, access to interact with the seating infant, as well as providing safe ventilation while the multifunctional blanket is fastened to the car seat carrying bar. The multifunctional blanket can be used to provide warmth for the child seated in the car seat or in a stroller, or as a personal poncho. The multifunctional blanket can also provide personal privacy for a nursing mother out on the go. The multifunctional blanket can also be used to cover any standard shopping cart or high chair while the child is seated on the shopping cart or high chair for sanitary purposes.

[0052] The foregoing descriptions of embodiments of the present disclosure have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the Claims appended hereto and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A multifunctional blanket for covering a standard rear facing infant carrier, a baby, a stroller, a child-seating device, a nursing woman, and other child carriers, said multifunctional blanket comprising: a reversible outer cover, said outer cover having opposite sides of equal length, a top portion, and a bottom portion, wherein said top and bottom portions have the same width; and a reversible inner cover, said inner cover having opposite sides of equal length, a top portion, and a bottom portion, wherein said top and bottom portions have the same width; and a set of edge-fastening device attached to each opposite side of said cover.

2. The multifunctional blanket as described in claim 1, further comprises a center opening on said outer and inner covers.

3. The multifunctional blanket as described in claim 2, wherein said center opening further comprises a flap and/or a flap cover.

4. The multifunctional blanket as described in claim 3, wherein said flap and/or flap cover further comprises a flap-fastening device.

5. The multifunctional blanket as described in claim 2, wherein said center opening enables a carrying handle of said standard infant carrier to protrude through said outer and inner covers and be readily accessible to be transported by a device handler.

6. The multifunctional blanket as described in claim 4, wherein said flap-fastening device secures said outer and inner covers to said protruding carrying handle, which enables said device handler to grasp said protruding carrying handle with a one-hand grip, or alternately placing said protruding carrying handle on a surface of a flexed inner elbow and/or an inner forearm for ease of transport.

7. The multifunctional blanket as described in claim 3, wherein said flap and/or flap cover further comprises a ventilating peek-a-boo window, which enables ventilation and interaction with a seated infant.

8. The multifunctional blanket as described in claim 1, wherein said edge-fastening device secures said opposite sides of said outer and inner covers to said stroller, which enables said outer and inner covers to serve as a warming and/or covering device for a seated child while seating in either moving or non-moving stroller and/or transporter device.

9. The multifunctional blanket as described in claim 4, wherein said flap-fastening device secures said flap and/or flap-cover in a fully extended position, which enables said outer and inner covers to be used a general-purpose blanket.

10. The multifunctional blanket as described in claim 2, wherein said center opening can be placed over a nursing mother, which enables said outer and inner covers for privacy use as a nursing cover.

11. The multifunctional blanket as described in claim 3, wherein said center opening is placed on a planar surface of a shopping cart or a high chair seating, and said flap and/or flap cover is fully extended to allow any safety straps to be pulled through said center opening to secure said child to said shopping cart or high chair seating.

12. The multifunctional blanket as described in claim 2, wherein said center opening can be placed over an individual to be used as a personal poncho for warmth.

13. The multifunctional blanket as described in claim 2, wherein said center opening is positioned in equal proportionality from said opposite sides and said top and bottom portions.

14. The multifunctional blanket as described in claim 1, wherein said reversible outer cover can be turned over to be used as said reversible inner cover.

15. The multifunctional blanket as described in claim 1, wherein said reversible inner cover can be turned over to be used as said reversible outer cover.

16. The multifunctional blanket as described in claim 1, wherein said multifunctional blanket is measured to be approximately within a range of from 30 inches by 40 to 45 inches, enabling optimal ventilation and avoiding excessive fabric to be dragged while in use.

17. The multifunctional blanket as described in claim 2, wherein said center opening is measured to have equal length and width.

18. The multifunctional blanket as described in claim 17, wherein said center opening is measure to be approximately 8 square inches.

19. The multifunctional blanket as described in claim 3, wherein said flap and/or flap cover comprises three equal sides of approximately 8 inches for each side.

20. The multifunctional blanket as described in claim 1, wherein said edge-fastening device is measured to be approximately within a range of from 12 inches by 2 to 3 inches.

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