Infant-Support Couch Seat Device

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/668,799, which was filed on Jul. 9, 2024, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of child seating stabilization devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to a device that secures an infant on a couch, sofa, or similar furniture by using a cushioned foam cross member that conforms to the infant's torso, a central support member between the infant's legs to prevent sliding, and a vertical support member anchored between rear couch cushions for stability. 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

Infants have difficulty maintaining an upright seated position due to their developing motor skills and relatively high body weight distribution. When placed on a couch or similar furniture, they are at risk of tipping over, which can lead to falls, injuries, or suffocation within the couch cushions. Parents and caregivers often need to maintain constant physical contact to prevent accidents, which can be inconvenient and physically demanding. The absence of a secure seating solution for infants on couches limits their ability to sit independently while still requiring close supervision. Conventional seating options, such as high chairs and floor-based baby seats, do not adequately address the unique risks posed by couches, including gaps between cushions and varying seat depths. Furthermore, while some infant-support devices exist, they are primarily designed for use on the floor or in high chairs rather than on soft, cushioned furniture. As a result, there is a need for a specialized device that can securely support an infant in an upright position while seated on a couch, reducing the risk of falls and suffocation. Addressing this issue would improve infant safety, provide convenience for caregivers, and expand seating options within the home.

Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an infant-support couch seat device that provides a secure and stable seating solution for infants on couches, preventing tipping and potential falls. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for an infant-support couch seat device that enables infants to sit independently while maintaining an upright position without the risk of suffocation between couch cushions. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an infant-support couch seat device that incorporates attachment points for toys and accessories, providing engagement for the infant while ensuring safety and stability.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises an infant-support couch seat device. The device is designed to secure an infant on a couch, sofa, or similar furniture, preventing tipping or falling while seated. The device comprises a cushioned foam cross member that conforms to the infant's torso, a central support member positioned between the infant's legs to prevent forward sliding, and a vertical support member that anchors between rear couch cushions for stability. The cross member includes attachment points for securing toys or accessories and utilizes fasteners to connect with the vertical support member, ensuring enclosure and preventing displacement. The method of using the device involves positioning the vertical support member within couch cushions, placing the infant with the central support member between their legs, securing the cross member with fasteners to the vertical support member, and optionally attaching accessories. As a result, the device provides a safe and comfortable seating solution that ensures infants remain securely positioned on furniture such as couches.

In this manner, the infant-support couch seat device of the present invention accomplishes all the forgoing objectives and provides an infant stabilization and seating solution specifically designed for use on couches and similar furniture. More specifically, the cross member conforms to the infant's torso, applying gentle pressure to stabilize the child while preventing tipping. The central support member further extends between the infant's legs, preventing forward sliding and utilizing couch cushion gaps for additional anchoring. The vertical support member secures the device to the back cushions of the couch, ensuring overall stability and reducing movement. By implementing these features, the infant-support couch seat device enhances safety, promotes independent sitting, and allows caregivers greater flexibility in supervising their child.

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 infant-support couch seat device. The device is designed to secure an infant on a couch, sofa, or similar furniture, preventing tipping or falling. The device is comprised of multiple interconnected components that provide stability and adaptability to accommodate different furniture configurations and infant sizes.

The primary stabilizing element of the device is a cushioned foam cross member, preferably made from high-density foam, which flexes to conform to the infant's torso, providing consistent support. The cross member is enclosed in a fitted fabric cover, which may be made from breathable, moisture-wicking, or stain-resistant materials, and may include antimicrobial or hypoallergenic coatings. The cross member rests across the infant's torso, applying gentle pressure to maintain balance, and includes attachment points such as fabric loops or fastener straps for securing items like toys or pacifiers.

A central support member extends downward from the cross member, positioned between the infant's legs to prevent forward sliding. The support member is constructed from padded or reinforced fabric and may include an internal semi-rigid structure, such as a flexible polymer insert or layered foam reinforcement, ensuring stability while remaining comfortable. In some embodiments, the central support member is further inserted between couch cushions for additional anchoring, featuring a non-slip bottom surface made from materials like textured rubber or silicone-coated fabric to enhance grip.

A vertical support member is positioned between the back cushions of a couch, anchoring the device and preventing the infant from shifting forward or sideways. This member may be comprised of a semi-rigid polymer frame encased in foam padding or a multi-layered composite structure for support and cushioning.

The cross member includes fasteners on each end, such as hook fasteners, snap buttons, or magnetic closures, which engage with corresponding fasteners on the vertical support member. This attachment ensures the device remains securely in place, providing full enclosure and stability for the infant.

A method of using the device includes inserting the vertical support member between couch cushions, positioning the central support member between the infant's legs, seating the infant with legs on either side of the central support member, securing the cross member across the infant's torso, and fastening it to the vertical support member. Attachment points on the cross member may be used to secure additional items. The device remains in place during use, providing a stable and enclosed seating environment that prevents tipping or falling.

Accordingly, the infant-support couch seat device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides an infant stabilization and seating solution specifically designed for use on couches and similar furniture. More specifically, the cross member conforms to the infant's torso, applying gentle pressure to stabilize the child while preventing tipping. The central support member further extends between the infant's legs, preventing forward sliding and utilizing couch cushion gaps for additional anchoring. The vertical support member secures the device to the back cushions of the couch, ensuring overall stability and reducing movement. By implementing these features, the infant-support couch seat device enhances safety, promotes independent sitting, and allows caregivers greater flexibility in supervising their child. In this manner, the infant-support couch seat device overcomes the limitations of existing child seating stabilization devices 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 top perspective view of a cross member and a central support member of one potential embodiment of an infant-support couch seat device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 2 illustrates a top perspective view of a cross member, a vertical support member, and a central support member while unattached of one potential embodiment of an infant-support couch seat device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 3 illustrates a front perspective view of one potential embodiment of an infant-support couch seat device of the present invention while attached around an infant and secured to a couch in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart of a method of using one potential embodiment of an infant-support couch seat device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

FIG. 5 illustrates a side perspective view of one potential embodiment of an infant-support couch seat 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 infant-support couch seat device that provides a secure and stable seating solution for infants on couches, preventing tipping and potential falls. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for an infant-support couch seat device that enables infants to sit independently while maintaining an upright position without the risk of suffocation between couch cushions. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an infant-support couch seat device that incorporates attachment points for toys and accessories, providing engagement for the infant while ensuring safety and stability.

The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of an infant-support couch seat device. The device is designed to secure an infant on a couch, sofa, or similar furniture, preventing tipping or falling. It is comprised of multiple interconnected components that provide stability and adaptability to accommodate various furniture configurations and infant sizes.

A primary stabilizing element of the device is a cushioned foam cross member, preferably made from high-density foam, which flexes to conform to the infant's torso, ensuring consistent support. The cross member is enclosed in a fitted fabric cover, which may be made from breathable, moisture-wicking, or stain-resistant materials and may include antimicrobial or hypoallergenic coatings. Positioned across the infant's torso, the cross member applies gentle pressure to help maintain balance and features attachment points such as fabric loops or fastener straps for securing items like toys or pacifiers.

A central support member extends downward from the cross member and is positioned between the infant's legs to prevent forward sliding. Constructed from padded or reinforced fabric, it may include an internal semi-rigid structure, such as a flexible polymer insert or layered foam reinforcement, to enhance stability while maintaining comfort. In some embodiments, the central support member is further inserted between couch cushions for additional anchoring and features a non-slip bottom surface made from materials like textured rubber or silicone-coated fabric to improve grip.

A vertical support member is positioned between the back cushions of a couch, anchoring the device and preventing the infant from shifting forward or sideways. This component may be comprised of a semi-rigid polymer frame encased in foam padding or a multi-layered composite structure to provide both support and cushioning.

The cross member includes fasteners on each end, such as hook fasteners, snap buttons, or magnetic closures, which engage with corresponding fasteners on the vertical support member. This connection ensures the device remains securely in place, providing full enclosure and stability for the infant.

A method of using the device includes inserting the vertical support member between couch cushions, positioning the central support member between the infant's legs, seating the infant with legs on either side of the central support member, securing the cross member across the infant's torso, and fastening it to the vertical support member. Attachment points on the cross member may be used to secure additional items. The device remains in place during use, creating a stable and enclosed seating environment that prevents tipping or falling.

The infant-support couch seat device provides a specialized stabilization and seating solution for use on couches and similar furniture. The cross member conforms to the infant's torso, applying gentle pressure for stabilization while preventing tipping. The central support member extends between the infant's legs, preventing forward sliding and utilizing couch cushion gaps for added anchoring. The vertical support member secures the device to the back cushions, ensuring overall stability and minimizing movement. These features enhance safety, promote independent sitting, and offer caregivers greater flexibility in supervising their child, addressing the limitations of existing child seating stabilization devices.

Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a top perspective view of a cross member 102 and a central support member 108 of one potential embodiment of an infant-support couch seat device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The infant-support couch seat device 100 is a safety device designed to secure an infant on a couch, sofa, chair, or other furniture, preventing tipping or falling while seated. The device 100 is comprised of multiple interconnected components that work together to stabilize the infant in an upright position. The device 100 is designed to accommodate various furniture configurations and infant sizes, ensuring adaptability in different household settings.

The primary stabilizing element of the device 100 is a cushioned foam cross member 102. The cross member 102 is preferably constructed from a high-density foam. The cross member 102 is flexible and can curve during use to conform to the shape of the infant's torso. This flexibility ensures that the cross member 102 provides consistent, even support as it adjusts to the infant's body, preventing forward or sideways tipping. The cross member 102 is further enclosed in a fitted fabric cover 104 that may be made from breathable cotton, moisture-wicking synthetic blends, or machine-washable, stain-resistant materials to ensure hygiene and ease of maintenance. The cover 104 may also include antimicrobial coatings 105 or hypoallergenic fabric options to accommodate infants with sensitivities.

The cross member 102 is designed to rest across an infant's lap/torso during use, as seen in FIG. 3, applying gentle pressure to help maintain balance and prevent tipping. The cross member 102 can flex and adapt to the infant's movements, providing dynamic support while ensuring comfort. The cross member 102 further incorporates attachment points 106, such as but not limited to reinforced fabric loops, hook-and-loop fastener straps, snap fasteners, or integrated elastic bands. These attachment points 106 allow for the secure attachment of items 107 such as but not limited to toys, pacifiers, or other accessories, keeping the infant engaged while seated in the device 100.

A central support member 108 extends downward from the cross member 102 and is positioned between the infant's legs, as seen in FIG. 3, during use to provide additional security and prevent forward sliding. The central support member 108 is constructed from padded or reinforced fabric and may incorporate an internal semi-rigid structure 109, such as a flexible polymer insert, a corrugated plastic core, or layered foam reinforcement, to enhance stability. The internal semi-rigid structure 109 ensures that the central support member 108 maintains its shape while remaining flexible enough for comfort. The structure 109 is preferably curved.

In one embodiment, the central support member 108 is configured for insertion into the gap between couch cushions, utilizing the pressure between the cushions to help anchor the device 100 in place. To enhance grip and stability, the bottom surface of the central support member 108 may comprise a non-slip bottom surface 110. The non-slip bottom surface 110 may be made from materials such as textured rubber, silicone-coated fabric, or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) to provide additional friction and prevent shifting during use. In some embodiments, the non-slip bottom surface 110 is comprised of a texture 111 such as but not limited to raised ridges, patterned embossing, or micro-suction elements to improve adherence to various couch surfaces.

The device 100 is further comprised of a vertical support member 112, as seen in FIG. 2. The vertical support member 112 is a reinforced panel or foam-filled insert that is positioned between (e.g., inside the gap between) vertical back cushions of a couch during use, as seen in FIG. 3. The vertical support member 112 anchors the device 100 to a couch and prevents the infant from shifting forward or sideways. The vertical support member 112 may be comprised of a semi-rigid polymer frame encased in foam padding or a multi-layered composite structure that provides both support and cushioning. The member 112 may also be comprised of a cover 114 made from the same material and coatings 105 as the cross member 102 cover 104.

The cross member 102 is comprised of fasteners 120 on each end. The fasteners 120 may include but are not limited to hook fasteners, loop fasteners, snap button fasteners, magnetic fasteners, or adjustable buckle closures. The fasteners 120 engage with corresponding fasteners 113 on the vertical support member 112, which are preferably reciprocating fasteners such as but not limited to hook fasteners, loop fasteners, snap button fasteners, or magnetic fasteners. The engagement between the fasteners 120 and the fasteners 113 ensures that the cross member 102 securely attaches to the vertical support member 112, preventing separation during use. This configuration fully encloses the infant within the device 100, ensuring that if the infant tips forward or sideways, the device 100 provides support while remaining securely anchored to the couch.

As a result, the infant-support couch seat device 100 provides a secure, comfortable, and adaptable seating solution for parents and caregivers, allowing an infant to sit safely on a couch without the risk of tipping over or falling.

In one embodiment, the vertical support member 112 is also comprised of at least one shoulder strap 115, as seen in FIG. 5. The shoulder strap 115 is positioned over the shoulder of the infant and connects to the cross member 102 in a fixedly attached fashion or via a pair of reciprocating fasteners 116 such as but not limited to snap button, hook and loop, magnet, etc. In one embodiment, the strap 115 can articulate around a pivot point 117 such as but not limited to a pin to allow for adjustable positioning of the strap.

The present invention is also comprised of a method of using 200 the device 100, as seen in FIG. 4. First, the device 100 is provided, comprising a cushioned foam cross member 102, a central support member 108, and a vertical support member 112 [Step 202]. Then, the vertical support member 112 is positioned between the back cushions of a couch, sofa, or similar furniture, ensuring that the vertical support member 112 is securely inserted into the cushion gap to provide stability and prevent movement [Step 204]. Next, the central support member 108 is positioned between the infant's legs [Step 206]. Next, the infant is placed on the seating surface of the couch with the legs positioned on either side of the central support member 108 and the cross member 102 is placed across the infant's torso and/or lap [Step 208]. Next, the fasteners 120 located at each end of the cross member 102 are secured to the corresponding fasteners 113 on the vertical support member 112 [Step 210]. The engagement of the fasteners 120 and fasteners 113 ensures that the cross member 102 remains in place and cannot be easily displaced during use. Finally, attachment points 106 on the cross member 102 may be used to secure additional items 107 such as toys or pacifiers to engage the infant while seated in the device 100 [Step 212]. During use, the device 100 remains in place, providing a stable and enclosed seating environment to prevent tipping or falling while the infant is on the couch.

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 “infant-support couch seat device” and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the infant-support couch seat device 100 of the present invention.

Notwithstanding the forgoing, the infant-support couch seat 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 infant-support couch seat device 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the infant-support couch seat device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the infant-support couch seat device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the infant-support couch seat 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.