EATING BIB DEVICE

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/556,550, which was filed on Feb. 22, 2024, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of eating bibs. More specifically, the present invention relates to an eating bib device with a neckline flap and a torso strap for additional securing not found in existing bibs. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.

BACKGROUND

Traditional bibs for infants and toddlers are widely used to protect clothing during meals but often fall short in preventing stains effectively. Children, especially during their early developmental stages, tend to spill food and drinks frequently while learning to eat independently. The design of conventional bibs typically leaves gaps near the neckline, allowing food particles and liquids to seep through, resulting in soiled clothing. Additionally, standard bibs often shift out of place during use, further reducing their effectiveness. This problem necessitates frequent clothing changes and increases the need for laundry, imposing additional burdens on parents and guardians. The repetitive washing not only consumes significant time and effort but also leads to higher water and energy usage. Furthermore, many traditional bibs are made from fabric materials that degrade over time, requiring frequent replacements. This cycle of washing, replacing, and managing ineffective bibs creates a recurring problem for caregivers, emphasizing the need for a more efficient solution.

Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an eating bib device that provides enhanced protection against stains, particularly at the neckline. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for an eating bib device that remains securely in place during use to prevent shifting and gaps. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an eating bib device that is durable, reusable, and appealing to both children and their caregivers.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises an eating bib device. The device is designed to enhance convenience, cleanliness, and functionality during mealtime. The bib comprises a body that can take various shapes and is made from durable, flexible, and heat-resistant food-grade silicone, treated with a stain-and odor-resistant coating to maintain hygiene and appearance, though any other suitable material can also be used. The interior features a textured surface to prevent slipping. A neckline flap can be tucked into a user's upper body garment neck opening and includes a sweatproof backing for additional protection. A structured pocket at the bottom captures food and liquids, with an optional fastener for easy drainage. A neck system includes options for a continuous elastic neck opening or a two-piece design with adjustable fasteners such as magnetic closures or hook-and-loop systems. Additionally, the bib may feature a torso strap, available in one-piece elastic or two-piece configurations secured with fasteners, for added stability.

In this manner, the eating bib device of the present invention accomplishes all the forgoing objectives and provides a durable rubber or silicone construction that is easy to clean and long-lasting. The inclusion of a flap at the top that tucks into the neckline addresses the issue of stains by providing a snug fit and preventing spills from reaching the underlying clothing. The bib's design also incorporates a variety of colors, patterns, and styles to captivate young children and encourage consistent use. By integrating these features, the eating bib device offers a comprehensive and practical solution that reduces the workload for caregivers, minimizes laundry needs, and ensures effective protection during meal times.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises an eating bib device. The eating bib device is comprised of a body that can take various shapes, including rounded, rectangular, triangular, or other configurations. The body is constructed from durable, flexible, and heat-resistant food-grade silicone or similar non-toxic, BPA-free, and phthalate-free materials, ensuring safety for direct contact with food. The exterior surface includes a stain-and odor-resistant coating that maintains cleanliness and appearance, even after exposure to strongly colored or odorous substances. The interior surface may feature textures such as patterns or raised designs to provide an anti-slip grip, helping the device remain securely in place during use.

The body is further comprised of at least one neckline flap, which includes textured areas designed to enhance grip and maintain the flap's position. The neckline flap also features a sweatproof backing layer to prevent moisture or perspiration from transferring to clothing, enhancing its protective functionality. A structured pocket at the bottom is designed to capture food, liquids, and crumbs effectively. The pocket maintains its shape during use and may include optional features such as a fastener that allows liquids to be drained without tipping the device.

The eating bib device may include a two-piece neck system, where two neck pieces join securely with adjustable fasteners, such as magnetic closures, hook-and-loop systems, or snap buttons. Alternatively, the neck may be a continuous elastic opening that stretches gently over the user's head for simplified usage. Additionally, the body may incorporate a strap to secure the device around the user's torso. The strap may be a single elastic piece or a two-piece design joined by fasteners to provide a secure and adjustable fit.

A method of using the eating bib device involves placing the body over the user's torso, tucking the neckline flap into the neck area of the user's clothing, and securing the neck using the two-piece system or elastic opening. In embodiments with a strap, the strap is wrapped around the torso and secured. After use, the device is removed by disengaging fasteners or stretching the elastic neck opening, followed by lifting the device away from the user. The structured pocket is then emptied of food and debris, and, if equipped with a drainage fastener, liquids can be conveniently released without tipping the device.

Accordingly, the eating bib device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides a durable rubber or silicone construction that is easy to clean and long-lasting. The inclusion of a flap at the top that tucks into the neckline addresses the issue of stains by providing a snug fit and preventing spills from reaching the underlying clothing. The bib's design also incorporates a variety of colors, patterns, and styles to captivate young children and encourage consistent use. By integrating these features, the eating bib device offers a comprehensive and practical solution that reduces the workload for caregivers, minimizes laundry needs, and ensures effective protection during meal times. In this manner, the eating bib device overcomes the limitations of existing eating bibs known in the art.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of one potential embodiment of an eating bib device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of one potential embodiment of an eating bib device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method of using one potential embodiment of an eating bib device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an eating bib device that provides enhanced protection against stains, particularly at the neckline. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for an eating bib device that remains securely in place during use to prevent shifting and gaps. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an eating bib device that is durable, reusable, and appealing to both children and their caregivers.

The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of an eating bib device. The eating bib device includes a body that can adopt various shapes, such as rounded, rectangular, triangular, or other configurations. The body is made from durable, flexible, and heat-resistant food-grade silicone or similar non-toxic, BPA-free, and phthalate-free materials, ensuring it is safe for direct contact with food. The exterior surface features a stain-and odor-resistant coating that preserves cleanliness and appearance, even after exposure to strongly colored or odorous substances. The interior surface may include textures, such as patterns or raised designs, that provide an anti-slip grip to keep the device securely in place during use.

The body also includes at least one neckline flap with textured areas that enhance grip and secure positioning. The flap incorporates a sweatproof backing layer to prevent moisture or perspiration from transferring to clothing, enhancing its protective function. A structured pocket at the bottom captures food, liquids, and crumbs effectively, maintaining its shape during use and optionally including a fastener for draining liquids without tipping the device.

The eating bib device may utilize a two-piece neck system, where two neck pieces connect with adjustable fasteners, such as magnetic closures, hook-and-loop systems, or snap buttons. Alternatively, the neck may feature a continuous elastic opening that stretches over the user's head for ease of use. The body may also include a strap, which can be a single elastic piece or a two-piece design connected by fasteners, to secure the device around the torso.

Using the eating bib device involves positioning the body over the user's torso, tucking the neckline flap into the user's clothing, and securing the neck with either the two-piece system or an elastic opening. If a strap is included, it is wrapped around the torso and secured. After use, the device is removed by disengaging fasteners or stretching the elastic neck opening and lifting it away from the user. The pocket is emptied of collected food and debris, and, if equipped with a drainage fastener, liquids are released without tipping the device.

Thus, the eating bib device provides a durable and easy-to-clean rubber or silicone construction, addressing the issue of stains with a snug-fitting neckline flap. Its appealing designs encourage use by children, while its practical features reduce caregiver effort, minimize laundry, and offer effective protection during meals. These advantages make it a superior solution compared to traditional bibs.

Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of one potential embodiment of an eating bib device 100 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The eating bib device 100 is comprised of a body 110. The body 110 may take any bib shape, including but not limited to rounded, rectangular, triangular, or asymmetrical configurations. The body 110 is preferably made from food-grade silicone or another material that is BPA-free, phthalate-free, non-toxic, and safe for direct contact with food. The silicone material provides durability, flexibility, and heat resistance, making the eating bib device 100 suitable for frequent use and cleaning. The heat-resistant properties of the material allow for sterilization by boiling or steaming. Additionally, the exterior surface 112 of the body 110 is treated with a stain-and odor-resistant coating 114 (as seen in FIG. 1), preserving cleanliness and appearance even when exposed to strongly colored or odorous substances.

In one embodiment, the interior surface 116 of the body 110 is textured. The textured interior surface 116 provides an anti-slip surface to help the eating bib device 100 remain securely in place during use. Textures may include, but are not limited to, geometric patterns, ridges, raised dots, or other suitable surface designs that enhance grip.

The body 110 is also comprised of at least one neckline flap 120. In one embodiment, the neckline flap 120 is comprised of a textured area 122 (as seen in FIG. 2) in the form of but not limited to geometric patterns, ridges, raised dots, or other suitable surface designs that enhance grip to ensure flap 120 remains in position during use. To further enhance protective features, the neckline flap 120 is equipped with a sweatproof backing layer 126, which prevents moisture or perspiration from transferring to the child's clothing.

At the bottom of the eating bib device 100, a structured pocket 130 is included to effectively capture falling food, liquids, and crumbs, as seen in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. The structured pocket 130 is designed to maintain shape during use and ensure reliable containment of messes. For added convenience, the pocket 130 may be equipped with an optional fastener 132, such as a sealed slit or a removable cap, allowing liquids to be drained without the need to tip the eating bib device 100.

In another embodiment, the eating bib device 100 incorporates a two-piece neck 140 system for added versatility. The first neck piece 142 and the second neck piece 144 are designed to join together securely using at least one fastener 146. The fastener 146, or multiple fasteners 146 if used on both pieces 142 and 144, may include types such as magnetic closures, hook-and-loop systems, snap buttons, or other secure yet adjustable mechanisms. The two-piece design facilitates a comfortable fit and simplifies the application and removal of the eating bib device 100. In one embodiment, the neck 140 is a continuous piece with an elastic neck opening 148.

In one embodiment, the body 110 is comprised of a strap 150, as best seen in FIG. 2. The strap 150 is secured around the torso of the wearer to further secure the device 100 to the user during use. The strap 150 may be comprised of an elastic one-piece construction in one embodiment. IN a second embodiment, the strap 150 is comprised of a first piece 152 and a second piece 154. The first strap piece 152 and the second strap piece 154 are designed to join together securely using at least one fastener 156. The fastener 156, or multiple fasteners 156 if used on both pieces 152 and 154, may include types such as magnetic closures, hook-and-loop systems, snap buttons, or other secure and adjustable mechanisms.

The present invention is also comprised of a method of using 200 the eating bib device 100, as seen in FIG. 3. First, an eating bib device 100 is provided, the device 100 comprised of a body 110, at least one neckline flap 120, and a structured pocket 130 at the bottom of the body 110 [Step 202]. Next, the neckline flap 120 is tucked into the neck area of the user's upper body garment [Step 204]. Then, the body 110 is positioned over the user's torso by placing the neck 140 around the user's neck [Step 206]. In an embodiment with a two-piece neck 140 system, the first neck piece 142 is joined with the second neck piece 144 using at least one fastener 146, such as magnetic closures, hook-and-loop systems, or snap buttons [Step 208]. For embodiments featuring an elastic neck opening 148, the elastic is stretched gently over the child's head and adjusted to rest comfortably around the neck [Step 206]. In an embodiment with a strap 150, the strap 150 is positioned around the user's torso by placing the strap 150 around the user's upper body [Step 208]. In an embodiment with a two-piece strap 150 system, the first strap piece 152 is joined with the second strap piece 154 around a user's torso using at least one fastener 156, such as magnetic closures, hook-and-loop systems, or snap buttons [Step 210]. After the user has finished eating, the eating bib device 100 is removed by disengaging the fastener 146 or pulling the elastic neck opening 148 and lifting the device 100 off the user [Step 212]. In an embodiment with a strap 150, the strap 150 is also removed and/or disengaged from around the user's torso [Step 214]. Any food, liquids, or crumbs collected in the pocket 130 can then be emptied [Step 216]. If the pocket 130 includes a fastener 132 for liquid drainage, the fastener 132 is opened to release liquids without tipping the device 100 [Step 218].

Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “eating bib device” and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the eating bib device 100 of the present invention.

Notwithstanding the forgoing, the eating bib device 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the eating bib device 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the eating bib device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the eating bib device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the eating bib device 100 may be of any size, shape, and/or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.

Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.