TW202412676A - Playard assembly including playard and topper assembly with corner connector interface - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed to a playard assembly and is also directed to a topper assembly. The topper assembly includes connectors in corner regions of the topper assembly that are configured to engage with connectors defined in corner regions of the playard. Actuators for controlling the engagement between the respective connectors are provided along lateral portions of frame members of the topper assembly. Mating magnetic elements can also be provided in the connectors of the topper assembly and playard assembly.

Description

A play yard assembly comprising a play yard and a top assembly having a corner connector interface

The present disclosure relates generally to a playard assembly, and more particularly to a playard and top assembly combination.

A playard is a frame enclosure that provides a safe and comfortable space for sleeping and playing for an infant or young child (hereinafter referred to as a "child"). A playard generally includes a support structure (e.g., a frame or playard frame) that defines an interior space of the playard. A playard generally also includes a cushion placed in the interior space to provide a partially enclosed cushioned or padded space to support the child.

The playard may be stackable and/or foldable to improve portability. For example, a caregiver may stack the playard for storage and/or transportation, and unfold the playard for use. It is also desirable to have a stackable playard configuration for transportation purposes. In order to be fully stackable and compact, known playard frames have X-frame assemblies as vertical supports or cross supports between legs. Other types of stackable frame assemblies that may include tubes or frame elements with pivoting connections are also known. These X-frame assemblies or other stacking frame assemblies may be folded to become more compact in the stacked state. However, these frame assemblies typically do not have a smooth upper surface along the cross supports. Not having a continuous and uninterrupted support surface along the cross supports can make it difficult to attach additional components, such as a top assembly, to the playard frame.

It is desirable to provide an improved playard assembly that provides a convenient and reliable connection interface between the playard frame and additional components, such as a top assembly.

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/353,073 filed on June 17, 2022, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/418,172 filed on October 21, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/444,611 filed on February 10, 2023, all of which are incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth herein.

The present disclosure relates to a playard assembly, including a combination of a playard and a top assembly in one example, and a separate top assembly in another example. The playard assembly can include both a playard and a top assembly, the playard can include a frame, and the top assembly is configured to be connected or attached to the playard.

In one example, a playard assembly includes: a playard having at least one playard connector at least partially defined at a corner region of the playard; a top assembly having at least one top connector at least partially defined at a top corner region; and at least one actuator configured to selectively control engagement between the at least one top connector and the at least one playard connector.

The top assembly may include a first side frame, a second side frame, and at least one frame connector, wherein the at least one frame connector is configured to connect the first side frame and the second side frame. The first side frame may be composed of two first frame halves, and the second side frame may be composed of two second frame halves. The first side frame and the second side frame may each have a quadrilateral profile including two transverse side frame portions and two longitudinal side frame portions, and at least one actuator may be arranged on at least one of the two transverse side frame portions. The at least one actuator may include at least one drive actuator member, wherein the at least one drive actuator member is attached to at least one actuator arm, and the at least one actuator arm may be configured to engage with at least one play yard connector of the play yard. At least one drive actuator member may be configured to move to engage and disengage a retaining element formed on at least one play yard connector. In one example, the retaining element may be a spring-loaded tab. The at least one actuator arm may be housed within a frame of the top assembly. At least one actuator may be configured to selectively disengage two drive actuator members from two corresponding play yard connectors of the play yard. In one example, at least one actuator may be at least partially supported by the frame connector. At least one actuator may be at least partially supported in a recess in the frame connector. At least one actuator may be movable in a vertical direction within the recess to disengage at least one top connector from at least one play yard connector. At least one actuator can be moved downwardly to disengage at least one top connector from at least one play yard connector.

At least one play yard connector may include at least one first magnetic element, and at least one top connector may include at least one second magnetic element, and the at least one first magnetic element and the at least one second magnetic element may be configured to attract each other.

In another example, a play yard assembly configured to be selectively attached to a top assembly includes: a plurality of corner posts; a plurality of play yard connectors, each connector disposed on a corresponding one of the plurality of corner posts; a plurality of sliding supports, each sliding support disposed on a corresponding one of the plurality of corner posts and configured to slide up and down relative to the corresponding one of the plurality of corner posts; and a plurality of X-frame assemblies, each X-frame assembly extending between a corresponding pair of the plurality of corner posts and connected to one of the plurality of play yard connectors and one of the plurality of sliding supports on each corner post. Movement of the plurality of sliding supports along the corner posts toward the plurality of play yard connectors causes the play yard assembly to unfold, and movement of the plurality of sliding supports along the corner posts away from the plurality of play yard connectors causes the play yard assembly to collapse.

Additional embodiments are described below and in the claims.

Certain terms are used in the following description for convenience only and are not limiting. The words "front," "rear," "upper," and "lower" refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. The words "inwardly" and "outwardly" refer to directions toward and away from the parts mentioned in the drawings. A reference to a list of items described as "at least one of a, b, or c" (where a, b, and c represent listed items) refers to any one or combination of items a, b, or c. This terminology includes the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.

As shown in Figures 1 to 8, the play yard assembly 10 disclosed herein may generally include a play yard 20 and a top assembly 40. The present disclosure generally provides an improved connection interface between the play yard 20 and the top assembly 40. As used herein, the term "connection interface" refers to an interface between two related components that enables the two components to be securely connected or attached to each other, while also allowing for selective disengagement or separation.

Additionally, the present invention provides a top assembly 40 that can be used with a variety of play yards and is configured to provide connectors to the play yard 20 in the corner regions of the top assembly 40. This allows the top assembly 40 to be connected to play yard frames having different configurations where there may not be a smooth, continuous or uninterrupted upper connection area, such as in a play yard having an X-frame assembly as an associated vertical support or cross support between legs.

The play yard 20, shown in detail in Figures 1 and 6, may include a frame 22, also referred to as a play yard frame. The frame 22 may include various sub-components, such as tubes, supports, rods, columns, etc. The frame 22 may include a plurality of corner posts 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d, which are also referred to as legs or vertical supports. Although four corner posts 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d are shown in the figures, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that in other configurations, additional or fewer corner posts may be provided. For example, the features disclosed herein may be applicable to a hexagonal play yard, which would include six corner posts. In addition, vertical supports or legs may be provided in the middle areas between the corner posts to provide additional support.

The playard 20 may include a plurality of X-frame assemblies 27, each of which is connected to a first corner post 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d at a first end 27a and to a second corner post 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d at a second end 27b. As shown in FIG. 6 , the X-frame assembly 27 may include more than one “X” shaped support between adjacent corner posts 24a, 24b. Although only one X-frame assembly 27 is seen in FIG. 6 , it should be understood by those skilled in the art that each side of the frame includes an X-frame assembly. As will be understood by those skilled in the art based on this disclosure, various configurations of the X-frame assembly 27 may be used. Since the X-frame assemblies can be stacked, cross supports having an X-frame configuration are ideal in a playard. As shown in FIG. 6 , the top surface area (A) of the X-frame assembly 27 does not have a smooth upper edge or portion, which requires the top assembly 40 to be attached to the playard 20 in an area away from the X-frame assembly.

The play yard 20 also includes at least one play yard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d configured to engage with at least one top connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d defined on the top assembly 40. The at least one play yard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d may be connected to at least one of the plurality of corner posts 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d. The at least one play yard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d may be defined as a cap or shell that is attached to the corner post 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d. In another example, the at least one play yard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d may be defined integrally with a corresponding one of the plurality of corner posts 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d.

The top assembly 40 includes at least one top connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d configured to mate with at least one play yard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d to secure the top assembly 40 to the play yard 20. As used in this context, in one example, the term "mate" means engaging with each other, such as by snap fit or clearance fit. In one example, the top connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d are male type connectors, and the play yard connectors 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d are female type connectors. Those skilled in the art will recognize based on this disclosure that this arrangement can be reversed so that the top connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d are female connectors and the playard connectors 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d are male connectors. This specific configuration is shown in Figures 12A to 15 and will be discussed in more detail herein. Based on the configuration disclosed herein, the top assembly 40 is configured to be attached to the playard 20 on a flat plane defined by the upper ends of the corner posts 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d.

The playard connectors 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d are at least partially defined at the playard corner regions 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d, and the top connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d are at least partially defined at the top corner regions 41a, 41b, 41c, 41d. As used herein, the term "corner region" refers to an area that is at least partially defined at the intersection of two sides or edges that form an angle with each other. For example, with respect to the playard 20, the playard corner regions 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d are defined at the intersection of two cross supports that form an angle, i.e., the intersection of two X-frame assemblies. With respect to the top assembly 40, the top corner regions 41a, 41b, 41c, 41d can be defined at the intersection of the two support frames 50a, 50b of the top frame 50, as shown in Figure 5. Also as shown in Figure 5, the top frame 50 is coplanar with the top connector 45a and the engagement element 46. No additional frame members, tubes or other structures are required on the top assembly 40 to define the connector interface with the play yard 20.

The play yard 20 may also include a soft component 28 configured to be attached to the frame 22. The soft component 28 may include at least one opening 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d, and at least one play yard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d may be configured to extend out of or over at least one opening 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d. In one example, the soft component 28 may include four openings 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d. The openings 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d may be defined at the corner edges of the soft component 28. For example, the openings 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d may be defined in the upper region of the corner seam of the soft component 28.

The soft component 28 may define a continuous perimeter, and a portion of the soft component 28 may be configured to extend uninterruptedly around an upper portion of an outer perimeter of the play yard 20 and an inner perimeter of the play yard 20. For example, an upper portion 29a of the soft component 28 may wrap around an upper portion of the frame 22 (including the X-frame assembly), and a lower portion 29b of the soft component 28 may be suspended inside an interior space defined by the frame 22. The upper portion 29a may be formed of a reinforced durable material such as nylon, and the lower portion 29b may be formed of a mesh fabric or other material. As shown in the figure, when the soft assembly 28 is attached to the play yard 20, the X frame assembly is hidden and not visible, and only the play yard connectors 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d are visible along the top surface of the play yard assembly 10. The soft assembly 28 can also wrap around the outer surface of the upper area of each corner post 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d.

The playard connectors 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d and the top connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d may be implemented according to any number of shapes, configurations, profiles, etc. In one example, the playard connectors 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d include a receptacle 26, which is shown according to one exemplary configuration in FIG. 9. The receptacle 26 may be arranged so that it faces inwardly toward an interior space or area defined by the playard 20. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the orientation of the receptacle 26 may vary. The receptacle 26 may be formed as a pocket or other structure configured to receive and selectively retain another component (i.e., a portion of the top connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d). The receiving portion 26 can have a profile that is generally complementary to a portion of the top connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d. In one example, the receiving portion 26 can include a recess having an upper lip, shoulder, or edge 26a configured to temporarily engage a portion of the top connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d during the attachment or connection stage. The bottom of the receiving portion 26 can also include a bottom support 26b on which the top assembly 40 is configured to rest or rest when attached to the playard 20. Side portions (such as guide portions 26c, 26d) may also be provided within the receiving portion 26 to ensure that the top connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d remain in the correct position within the play yard connectors 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d. Although a specific geometry of the receiving portion 26 is shown in FIG. 9, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that such geometry may be modified. Furthermore, in one example, the receiving portion 26 may alternatively be a protrusion, and the receiving portion may alternatively be provided on the top connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d.

The top connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d may include an engagement element 46 configured to selectively engage at least one of the playard connectors 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, such as within the interior of the receptacle 26. In one example, the engagement element 46 may snap into place to remain within the receptacle 26. The engagement element 46 may be formed as a protrusion, prong, or other structure extending outwardly from the remainder of the top connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d. The engagement element 46 may be configured to be biased to a first position via a biasing element (e.g., a spring), which may be disposed internally relative to the structure of the top connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d. In one example, the engagement element 46 can be a spring-loaded connector. The engagement element 46 can be configured to be pushed or driven away from the first position to the second position via engagement with a portion of the playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, such as a lip, shoulder, edge, or other structure defined within the receptacle 26 (i.e., edge 26a). For example, when the engagement element 46 temporarily contacts the playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d (i.e., edge 26a), a user can press or push the top assembly 40 in a downward direction relative to the playard 20, causing the engagement element 46 to flex or temporarily shift. Once the engagement element 46 clears or displaces beyond a portion of the playyard connectors 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, the engagement element 46 returns to its initial position and is configured to retain the top assembly 40 relative to the playyard 20. In this attached or connected state, a portion of the top assembly 40 is configured to be vertically supported by at least a portion of the playyard connectors 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, and more specifically, by the bottom support 26b.

When a user wishes to disconnect the top assembly 40 from the playard 20, the user depresses a portion of the engagement element 46 to bend or temporarily displace the engagement element 46 to a second position such that the engagement element 46 disengages from the playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d. For example, the engagement element 46 may be bent such that the engagement element 46 moves away from a lip, shoulder, or other retaining element formed on the playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d. The receptacle 26 of the playard connector 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d may be sized such that upward bending of the engagement element 46 may occur when a user wishes to disconnect the top assembly 40 from the playard 20. In one example, to release or separate the top assembly 40 from the play yard 20, the user only needs to engage a single engagement element of the plurality of engagement elements 46. Once the single engagement element 46 is released from the corresponding receiving portion 26, the entire top assembly 40 can be manipulated (i.e., tilted, slid, etc.) so that the remaining engagement elements 46 slide out of the other receiving portions 26.

To connect the top assembly 40 to the play yard 20, in one example, the engagement element 46 can be configured to be temporarily bent or driven to the second position by pressing the top assembly 40 downward relative to the play yard 20. Therefore, when attaching the top assembly 40 to the play yard 20, the user does not have to manually press the engagement element 46 itself, instead, the attachment process or step only requires the user to press the top assembly 40 downward relative to the play yard 20 with the top connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d aligned with the play yard connectors 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d.

The engagement element 46 may include an actuation area 47 configured to be engaged by a user. For example, the actuation area 47 may be defined as a button, a ridge, a lip, or a flange. Engagement with the actuation area 47 may bend or pivot the engagement element 46, thereby allowing the top assembly 40 to be released from the playard 20.

As shown in Figures 7A, 7B, and 8, the top assembly 40 can include a top base 52 that generally defines a support surface for a child. The top base 52 can have a first side 53a that defines a change area and a second side 53b that defines a cradle area. The top assembly 40 can be configured to be completely separated from the playard 20. The top assembly 40 can be configured to be connected to the playard 20 in the following two situations: (i) a change mode, in which the first side 53a faces upward (shown in Figure 7A), and (ii) a cradle mode, in which the second side 53b faces upward (shown in Figure 7B). In the cradle mode shown in FIG. 7B , the top base 52 is in a relatively low vertical position, allowing the side walls of the top assembly 40 to be deeper to define a space for securely and safely securing a child. In the changing mode shown in FIG. 7A , the top base 52 is in a relatively high vertical position, which is more suitable for a user to change a child's diaper or clothing. In this way, the top assembly 40 can be considered a reversible top assembly 40 that can be manually installed or connected to the playard 20 in various modes or states. Therefore, the top assembly 40 eliminates the need for multiple top assemblies, each having a different mode or configuration.

The top connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d can be exposed in both the change mode and the cradle mode to provide easier access for the user to manually disengage the engagement element 46 relative to the playard connectors 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d. Additionally, regardless of the mode of use, the interface between the playard connectors 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d and the top connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d remains accessible to the user and is not covered by, for example, the software assembly 28.

8 , the top assembly 40 may include a top frame 50 including top connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d. The top frame 50 may include at least one rod or frame member defining the outer perimeter of the top assembly 40. In one example, the top frame 50 may include four rods, each extending between the top connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d.

The top assembly 40 can include a top support 54 that is attached to the top frame 50. The top support 54 can include a semi-rigid frame or plate structure. The top support 54 can be configured to bend or flex under a predetermined amount of force or pressure, but is otherwise configured to be rigid and extend upward (i.e., in the replacement mode) or downward (i.e., in the cradle mode) relative to the top frame 50 depending on the orientation of the top assembly 40. In one example, the top support 54 can be made of plastic. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that a variety of materials can be used for the top support 54.

The top assembly 40 may also include a top connector 56, which may be a fabric connector having one end attached to the top base 52 and the other end attached to the top support 54. In one example, the top connector 56 may be formed of a mesh material. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that a variety of materials may be used for the top connector 56.

The top connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d may be located on the periphery of the top assembly 40 and separated from the top base 52 (i.e., where the child is supported) by at least the top couplers 56 and the top supports 54. This provides a safety feature because the child is physically separated from the top connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d, thereby preventing accidental actuation of the engagement elements 46. An additional safety aspect is provided based on the top assembly 40 resting downward on the playard 20. Removing the top assembly 40 from the playard 20 requires an upward force, which is prevented because the child is supported within the top assembly 40 and the engagement elements 46 require manual actuation to release the top assembly 40 from the playard 20.

The top assembly 40 also provides a more intuitive and uniform arrangement for attaching the assembly 40 to the playard 20 than other attachment arrangements. All of the top connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d are rigidly supported to one another via the top frame 50, thereby ensuring that all of the top connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d move generally in unison. This is desirable to the user in order to provide a simplified attachment or connection interface compared to other arrangements that may require the user to attach individual straps or hooks from the top to the playard frame. This also provides a safety feature based on all of the top connectors 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d being rigidly linked so that during installation each top connector 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d will automatically be positioned adjacent to a corresponding one of the playard connectors 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d rather than having the connectors on different straps or other non-rigid supports.

As disclosed herein, a connection interface between the top assembly 40 and the play yard 20 is provided, wherein the connection between the top assembly 40 and the play yard 20 is only provided at the corner regions of each respective component. In one example, no additional supports or interfaces, i.e., intermediate supports or connectors, are provided at the regions between the top assembly 40 and the corners of the play yard 20.

As shown in Figures 10A and 10B, the play yard 20 is stackable, and in the stacked state, the play yard 20 can be installed within the perimeter defined by the top assembly 40. Although the top assembly 40 is shown in an assembled state in Figure 10B, those skilled in the art will understand that the top assembly 40 can also be stacked. This arrangement allows the user to compactly stack and package the entire play yard assembly 10 for travel or storage.

In another example, as shown in Figures 11A to 11C, the top assembly 140 can include at least one top connector 145a, which includes an engagement element 146 with an actuator 147. The actuator 147 can be a button actuator and can include a button that is configured to be compressed or otherwise engaged so that the engagement element 146 selectively shifts, retracts, moves, pivots, or bends. All other details of the top assembly 140 are the same as the top assembly 40, and the connection to the play yard 20 is also the same. Those skilled in the art will understand that various configurations of the engagement element can be implemented.

12A, 12B, 13A, 13B, 14, and 15 illustrate another example of a play yard assembly 210 in which the receiving portion (i.e., the female connector) is defined on a corner region of a top assembly 240, and the engaging element (i.e., the male connector) is defined on a corner region of the play yard 220. Unless specific features are further defined herein, the general function and operation of the play yard assembly 210 are otherwise the same as the play yard assembly 10.

As shown in Figures 12A and 12B, a playard connector 225 may be provided that includes an engagement element 226 that is generally configured to engage with the top assembly 240 to hold or connect the top assembly 240 and the playard 220 together. The playard connector 225 is defined at a corner region 221 of the playard 220. An actuation region 226a may be provided on the playard connector 225 that is configured to be manually engaged to move, displace, pivot, bend, or otherwise actuate the engagement element 226 from one position (i.e., in which the engagement element 226 is retained within a receptacle on the top assembly) to another position (in which the engagement element 226 is actuated away from the receptacle on the top assembly). The actuation region 226a can be configured to be pushed, pulled, slid, moved, or otherwise engaged to move the engagement element 226 .

As shown in FIG12B , the bottom support 226 b may also be defined by a playard connector 225, which may define a resting surface or abutment surface for the top assembly 240. Although only one playard connector 225 is shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B , a person skilled in the art will appreciate that multiple playard connectors may be provided on the playard 220.

13A and 13B , the top assembly 240 can include a top connector 245 that can be defined at a corner region 241 of the top assembly 240. The top connector 245 can define a receptacle 246 that is sized to receive at least a portion of the engagement element 226 of the playard connector 225. The top assembly 240 can include a plurality of top connectors 245, each defined at a respective corner region of the top assembly 240.

FIG14 illustrates other aspects of the interface between the top assembly 240 and the playard 220. As shown in FIG14, the playard connector 225 can be defined as a housing or structure above the corner posts 224 of the playard 220. The corner posts 224 can define the pivot (P) of the X-frame assembly 227, which is shown in more detail in FIG14.

Figure 15 illustrates additional aspects of the playard connector 225. As shown in Figure 15, the playard connector 225 may be comprised of multiple shells or structural elements. The playard connector 225 may include a first shell 230 configured to be attached to the remainder of the playard 220. For example, the first shell 230 may be configured to be attached or connected to a corner post 224, a leg, or other structure. The first shell 230 may define a pivot connection area for an X-frame assembly 227. The first shell 230 may define a cavity 230a configured to receive a portion of a second shell 231. The first shell 230 may also define a support surface 230b for engaging a biasing element 235, which, in one example, may be a spring. When the top assembly 240 is connected to the playard 20, the biasing element 235 can bias the engagement element 226 in an inward direction toward the receptacle 246 of the top assembly 240. In one example, the soft assembly can be configured to wrap around or be positioned on the first shell 230. The construction of the playard connector 225 shown in detail in FIG. 15 can also be the same as the construction of the playard connector 25. The playard connector 25 can also include at least two shell components that mate with each other.

The second housing 231 can be configured to mate or engage with the first housing 230. In one example, the second housing 231 defines a protrusion 231a that is configured to be received within the cavity 230a of the first housing 230. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the first housing 230 may alternatively define a protrusion and the second housing 231 may alternatively define a receptacle for receiving the protrusion. The second housing 231 also defines a receiving area 231b that is configured to accommodate or support at least a portion of the engagement element 226. In one example, the engagement element 226 may be supported within the receiving area 231b via a pivot connection.

In one example, the software assembly is configured to be positioned above or wrapped around the first shell 230. In one example, the software assembly can be secured between the first shell 230 and the second shell 231. This manner of attaching the software assembly ensures that the software assembly is securely secured between the mating interfaces of the second shell 231 and the first shell 230. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that a variety of connections between the software assembly and the play yard connector 225 may be used.

In one configuration, the top assembly 40 may include a tubular structure (i.e., a top frame 50 and support frames 50a, 50b), as shown in Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7A, 7B, 8, 9, 13A, 13B, and 14. In another configuration, as shown in Figures 6 and 10B, the top assembly 140 may alternatively include side supports 50a', 50b', 50c', 50d', which may be formed of a polyurethane sheet and may be stacked relative to the top soft material 51. The top assembly 140 of Figures 6 and 10B may also include a coupling element 146 and an actuator 147, which are shown in more detail in Figures 11A to 11C. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the structure of the top assembly may vary.

As shown, the top assembly 40 can have a size or profile configured to completely fill the interior perimeter defined by the playard 20. This is desirable so that each corner post 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d of the playard 20 can serve as an attachment area for the top assembly 40. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the size of the top assembly 40 can vary.

As shown in Figures 16A, 16B, 17A, 17B and 17C, the top assembly can have different configurations and structures. For example, in Figures 16A and 16B, the top assembly 340 can include a frame structure 342. The frame structure 342 can be formed by plastic or any other material. The frame structure 342 can include a rod, a connector, a column or other structure extending between top connectors 345 generally defined at the corners of the frame structure 342. The top connector 345 can have the same functions and features as other top connectors disclosed herein. In one example, the frame structure 342 can include a first frame 342a and a second frame 342b along each side of the frame structure 342. The first frame 342a and the second frame 342b can be stacked up and down and spaced apart from each other at a predetermined distance or spacing. In one example, there are four groups of first frames 342a and second frames 342b. In one example, the first frame 342a is wider or thicker than the second frame 342b. The corner frame connector 344 can be configured to be connected to the top connector 345 and define an attachment area for at least each second frame 342b. The corner frame connector 344 can be defined as a plate-like structure that is curved and extends around the corner area of the top assembly 340. Each first frame 342a can be connected to a corresponding one of the plurality of top connectors 345. Each second frame 342b can be connected to one end of the corner frame connector 344. Those skilled in the art will understand that the first frame 342a and the second frame 342b can both be attached to the corner frame connector 344. Between the first frame 342a and the second frame 342b, an opening or window can be defined. This structure of the frame provides a lightweight construction. The software can be configured to wrap around the frame structure 342, similar to the construction shown in Figure 8. In one example, the top base can be configured to extend generally between the space defined by the second frame 342b. As shown in Figure 16B, the top connector 345 for the top assembly 340 also includes an engagement element 346, which is configured to selectively engage with a portion of the playard to hold the top assembly 340 with the playard. The top assembly 340 is removable from the playard and is also reversible, so that a cradle mode and a change zone mode are provided.

As shown in Figures 17A to 17C, another top assembly 440 can be provided, which also includes a frame structure 442. Similar to the structure in Figures 16A and 16B, the top assembly 440 can also include a first frame 442a and a second frame 442b arranged along each side of the top assembly 440. A corner frame connector 444 can be provided, which is configured to be attached, connected or otherwise linked to the first frame 442a and the second frame 442b. The corner frame connector 444 can be formed as a curved plate-like structure and is configured to be arranged in the corner area of the top assembly 440. In order to attach the frame to the corner frame connector 444, the second frame 442b can include a curved end portion that is configured to slide into a recess or receiving portion 444a defined on the corner frame connector 444. This connection can be a press fit, a clearance fit, or a snap fit connection. In one example, the end of the second frame 442b can include an enlarged head portion 442b' that is configured to be retained by the corner frame connector 444. The first frame 442a is similarly configured to be retained by the corner frame connector 444. The connection between the first frame 442a and the corner frame connector 444 can be provided via engagement with a slot or other retaining structure 444b defined by the corner frame connector 444. The top connector 445 can be configured to also be attached to the corner frame connector 444. The top connector 445 can include a receptacle 446 that is configured to receive an engagement element or other portion of the playard to hold the top assembly 440 together with the playard.

Top assembly 340, 440 is otherwise similar to top assembly 40 and is configured to connect or attach to a top soft assembly, which may include a top base 52 (which is reversible for use in a cradle mode or a change zone mode), a top coupler 56, etc. Top assembly 340, 440 is modular and configured to be removable so that a user can remove the frame and compactly store the top assembly when not in use.

18 to 20C , in one example, a play yard assembly 520 having a frame 522 may also be provided, the frame including a plurality of corner posts 524a, 524b, 524c, 524d and a plurality of X frame assemblies 527. As shown in the upper region of the frame 522, a top assembly 540 including a first side frame 542 and a second side frame 543 is also provided, the first side frame may include two frame halves 542a, 542b, and the second side frame may include two frame halves 543a, 543b. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the first side frame 542 and the second side frame 543 may be formed from a single integral frame member, two frame halves, or more than two frame elements or components.

At least one frame connector 544a, 544b may be included that provides a structural connection between the first side frame 542 and the second side frame 543. In one example, the frame connectors 544a, 544b may include two frame connectors that are disposed on opposing sides of the first side frame 542 and the second side frame 543. In one configuration, the frame connectors 544a, 544b may be disposed on relatively shorter sides of the first side frame 542 and the second side frame 543. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the frame connectors 544a, 544b may be disposed on relatively longer sides of the first side frame 542 and the second side frame 543. The top assembly 540 may also include a top base 552 configured to define a bottom support surface. Soft material may be provided to attach the top base 552 to the first side frame 542 and the second side frame 543.

At least one top connector 545a, 545b, 545c, 545d may be provided for connecting the top assembly 540 to the frame 522. The at least one top connector 545a, 545b, 545c, 545d may be configured to attach to or connect to at least one play yard connector 525a, 525b, 525c, 525d. Various connections may be provided between the play yard connectors 525a, 525b, 525c, 525d and the top connectors 545a, 545b, 545c, 545d.

The top assembly 540 may include at least one actuator 547, which in one example may include a handle or paddle. The at least one actuator 547 may include two actuators 547, each disposed in a corresponding region of the frame connector 544a, 544b. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the actuator 547 may be disposed in another location. The actuator 547 may be configured to drive or actuate a drive actuator member 548a. The drive actuator member 548a may be attached to an actuator arm 548b, which extends between the actuator 547 and the drive actuator member 548a. The drive actuator member 548a can be configured to move to engage and disengage with a retaining element 532 formed on the playard connector 525a, 525b, 525c, 525d. The retaining element 532 can include a protrusion, a fork or other structure configured to cooperate or engage with the drive actuator member 548a. In one example, the retaining element 532 can be a spring-loaded protrusion or connector. In one example, the drive actuator member 548a can be configured to selectively shift in a direction such as in a lateral inward direction. Those skilled in the art will understand that various configurations can be used so that a manual force applied to the actuator 547 drives various elements to control the engagement or disengagement of corresponding elements on the playard connector 525a, 525b, 525c, 525d.

The actuator 547 may be disposed on the transverse frame portion of the first frame 542 and the second frame 543, rather than on the longitudinal frame portion of the first frame 542 and the second frame 543. The transverse direction and the longitudinal direction are marked in FIG. 18 .

20C , the actuator 547 can be connected to a pair of actuator arms 548b, 548b', each of which is connected to a respective drive actuator member 548a, 548a'. Pulling the actuator 547 in an upward direction can pull the drive actuator members 548a, 548a' inwardly toward the actuator 547, causing the drive actuator members 548a, 548a' to disengage from a corresponding one of the playard connectors 525a, 525b, 525c, 525d.

As shown in Figures 20A and 20B, the playard connectors 525a, 525b, 525c, 525d and the top connectors 545a, 545b, 545c, 545d may include mating-assist features. In one example, the playard connectors 525a, 525b, 525c, 525d may include at least one playard magnet 533, and the top connectors 545a, 545b, 545c, 545d may include at least one top magnet or magnetic element 549a, 549b. In one example, the top connectors 545a, 545b, 545c, 545d may include two top magnets or magnetic elements 549a, 549b. The first of the two top magnets or magnetic elements 549a, 549b can be disposed on the top surface of the top connector 545a, 545b, 545c, 545d, and the second of the two top magnets or magnetic elements 549a, 549b can be disposed on the bottom surface of the top connector 545a, 545b, 545c, 545d, so that the top assembly can be used in two different configurations. The magnetic elements can help align the connectors and can also provide an audible click during engagement with each other to help the user determine whether a connection has been established.

As shown in FIG. 21 , the frame assembly may include slides 530a, 530b disposed at respective interfaces between a plurality of slide supports 531 and each of the corner posts 524a, 524b, 524c, 524d. These slides 530a, 530b may include a friction reducing material. In one example, the slides 530a, 530b may include a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or Teflon material. In another example, the slides 530a, 530b may include a friction reducing coating including, for example, PTFE or Teflon. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other materials may be used. The slides 530a, 530b (which may be bushings in an exemplary embodiment) may be configured to improve the up and down sliding of the slide supports 531 relative to the corner posts 524a, 524b, 524c, 524d during assembly and disassembly of the playard (i.e., the stacked state shown in Figures 10A and 10B). Frame pivot connectors 535a and 535b may be provided that provide an interface or connection between the X-frame assembly 527 and the playard connectors 525a, 525b, 525c, 525d and the slide supports 531. Downward movement of the sliding support 531 away from the playard connectors 525a, 525b, 525c, 525d causes the playard assembly to collapse, while upward movement of the sliding support toward the playard connectors 525a, 525b, 525c, 525d causes the playard assembly to expand.

Figures 22A and 22B illustrate other aspects of the actuator assembly, which is generally similar to the actuator assembly of Figures 18 to 20C. The actuator 647 differs from the actuator 547 in that the actuator 647 is attached or connected to at least one actuator wire 648b, 648b'. In an example and without limitation, the at least one actuator wire 648b, 648b' may include two actuator wires. The at least one actuator wire 648b, 648b' may be configured to be under tension, and when the actuator 647 is engaged (i.e., pulled, pressed, etc.), the corresponding drive actuator member 648a, 648a' may be transferred from a first position to a second position. As shown in FIG. 22B , the biasing element 651 can be configured to normally bias or drive the drive actuator member 648a, 648a' into engagement with the playard connector 625 when the actuator 647 is not engaged. This configuration holds at least one actuator wire 648b, 648b' under tension. In one example, the biasing element 651 can be a coil spring. Once the actuator 647 is engaged, the at least one actuator wire 648b, 648b' can be configured to pull the drive actuator member 648a, 648a' away from the playard connector 625 (i.e., inward relative to the middle area of the top assembly 640) so that the top assembly 640 can be removed or separated from the playard assembly. In one example, the drive actuator member 648a, 648a' may include a body or housing having a receptacle for fixing or retaining one end of the actuator wire 648b, 648b'. The other end of the at least one actuator wire 648b, 648b' may be connected to the actuator 647. In one example, a single actuator wire is provided instead of two actuator wires 648b, 648b', and the single actuator wire extends through the actuator 647, with one end connected to the first drive actuator member 648a and a second end connected to the second drive actuator member 648a'. The drive actuator member 648a, 648a' may include a first side configured to engage with the biasing element 651 and a second side configured to engage with the play yard connector 625. In one example, the playard connector 625 can include a recess, receptacle, lip, or other structure for selectively retaining a portion of the drive actuator member 648a, 648a'. The drive actuator member 648a, 648a' can be displaced or moved within the top connector 645. The configuration shown in Figures 22A and 22B is otherwise similar to the configuration of Figures 18 to 21 and can also include a magnetic element and a slider, the magnetic element being used to help align the top connector 645 with the playard connector 625.

23-29, another exemplary playard assembly is shown and generally designated by the reference numeral 1520. Playard 1520 is similar to playard 520 in most respects and has a frame 1522 including a plurality of corner posts 1524a, 1524b, 1524c, 1524d supporting a plurality of playard connectors 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d secured to the upper ends of the corner posts 1524a, 1524b, 1524c, 1524d. A plurality of sliding supports 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d are supported for sliding movement on the corner posts 1524a, 1524b, 1524c, 1524d, and a plurality of X frame assemblies 1527 are connected to corresponding play yard connectors 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d and the sliding supports 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d. The slide supports 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d are supported to slide on the corner posts 1524a, 1524b, 1524c, 1524d between the position shown in FIG. 23 (the unfolded state of the play yard assembly 1520) and the position spaced apart from the play yard connectors 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d (the folded state of the play yard assembly 1520). The slide supports 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d are connected to the lower ends of the corresponding X-frame assemblies 1527 and facilitate the unfolding and folding of the play yard assembly 1520.

In this example, the sliding supports 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d are releasably secured to the playard connectors 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d to hold the playard assembly 1520 in the deployed state. The playard connectors 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d each include a latch 1652 adapted to releasably engage a catch 1654 (e.g., a cooperating coupling member) of the sliding support 1650. For example, the catch 1654 can be a slot, recess, lip, or other structure of the sliding support 1650. In one example, each latch 1652 is pivotally mounted to the playard connector 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d to pivotally move between an engaged position for releasably fixing the sliding supports 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d in the position shown in Figure 24 and a disengaged position for allowing the sliding supports 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d to move downward from the position shown in Figure 24. A user can press the actuator portion 1656 of the latch 1652 to move the latch 1652 to the disengaged position. A biasing element (not shown) normally urges latch 1652 toward the engaged position.

As shown in the upper region of the frame 1522, a top assembly 1540 is also provided that includes a first side frame 1542, which may include two frame halves 1542a, 1542b, and a second side frame 1543, which may include two frame halves 1543a, 1543b. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the first side frame 1542 and the second side frame 1543 may be formed from a single integral frame member, two frame halves, or more than two frame elements or components.

At least one frame connector 1544a, 1544b may be included that provides a structural connection between the first side frame 1542 and the second side frame 1543. In one example, the frame connectors 1544a, 1544b may include two frame connectors that are disposed on opposite sides of the first side frame 1542 and the second side frame 1543. In one configuration, the frame connectors 1544a, 1544b may be disposed on relatively shorter sides of the first side frame 1542 and the second side frame 1543. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the frame connectors 1544a, 1544b may be disposed on relatively longer sides of the first side frame 1542 and the second side frame 1543. The top assembly 1540 may also include a top base 1552 that is configured to define a bottom support surface. Software may be provided to attach the top base 1552 to the first side frame 1542 or the second side frame 1543.

At least one top connector 1545a, 1545b, 1545c, 1545d may be provided for connecting the top assembly 1540 to the frame 1522. The at least one top connector 1545a, 1545b, 1545c, 1545d may be configured to attach or connect to at least one playard connector 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d. Various connections may be provided between the playard connectors 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d and the top connectors 1545a, 1545b, 1545c, 1545d.

The top assembly 1540 can include at least one actuator 1547 that differs from the actuator 647 (and associated components) primarily in the location and orientation of the actuator 1547. In this example, the at least one actuator 1547 is located on the upper side of the second side frame 1543 within the recess 1548 of the frame connector 1544a. The at least one actuator 1547 is oriented so that it can be depressed in a downward direction to release the top assembly 1540 from the frame 1522. The at least one actuator 1547 generally operates in the manner described above in conjunction with the actuator 647 to release the drive actuator member 1550 from the corresponding play yard connector 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d.

As shown in FIG29, when the actuator 1547 is not engaged, the biasing element 1551 can be configured to generally bias or drive each drive actuator member 1550 into engagement with the playard connector 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d. This configuration maintains the corresponding actuator wire 1648 under tension, which is operably connected between the actuator 1547 and the drive actuator member 1550. In one example, the biasing element 1551 can be a coil spring. Once the actuator 1547 is engaged, each actuator wire 1648 can be configured to pull the drive actuator member 1550 away from the corresponding playard connector 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d (i.e., inward relative to the middle area of the top assembly 1540) so that the top assembly 1540 can be removed or separated from the playard assembly.

In one example, each drive actuator member 1550 may include a body or housing having a housing 1554 for securing or retaining one end of an actuator wire 1648. The other end of the actuator wire 1648 may be connected to the actuator 1547. The drive actuator member 1550 may include a first side configured to engage with the biasing element 1551 and a second side configured to engage with the playard connector 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d. The drive actuator member 1550 and the biasing element 1551 are supported in a coupling member 1582, which may be secured to the second side frame 1543 via fasteners (e.g., bolts, screws, rivets, etc.). The retaining clip 1584 secures the drive actuator member 1550 and the biasing element 1551 within the coupling member 1582. The shield 1586 surrounds the coupling member 1582 and includes a slot through which the drive actuator member 1550 extends to engage with a structure of the play yard connectors 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d (e.g., a recess, a receptacle, a lip, or other structure for selectively retaining a portion of the drive actuator member 1550). It should be understood that the drive actuator member 1550, the coupling member 1582, the retaining clip 1584, and the shield 1586 together generally comprise the top connector 1545.

Also disclosed herein is a method of attaching a top assembly to a playard. The method may include providing a top assembly including a plurality of top connectors, each of which is at least partially defined at a corresponding top corner region. The method may include pressing the top assembly downward relative to the playard such that the top connector engages with a corresponding playard connector, each of which is at least partially defined at a corresponding playard corner region, such that the top assembly is attached to the playard. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the method may include additional steps.

Although a specific connection arrangement has been described with respect to a top assembly and a playard, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the connection interface and any features thereof may be used to attach other components, such as a canopy, to the playard. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that other connections between the top assembly and the playard are possible in addition to a gap-fit type connection. Various other connections, such as snap connectors, latches, hooks, fasteners, etc., may be used in place of the connector types shown in the accompanying drawings.

Although the present embodiment has been described in detail, those skilled in the art will appreciate and understand that many physical changes may be made without changing the inventive concepts and principles embodied herein, only some of which are exemplified in the detailed description of this disclosure.

It should also be understood that many embodiments are possible that include only a portion of a preferred embodiment without altering the inventive concepts and principles embodied herein with respect to those portions.

Therefore, the present embodiments and alternative configurations are considered in all respects to be exemplary and/or illustrative rather than restrictive, and the scope of the present disclosure is specified by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description, and therefore, all alternative embodiments and changes to the embodiments that fall within the meaning and range of equivalents of the claims are included herein.

10: Playyard assembly 20: Playyard 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d: Playyard corner area 22: Frame 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d: Corner posts 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d: Playyard connector 26: Accommodation portion 26a: Edge 26b: Bottom support member 26c, 26d: Guide portion 27: X-frame assembly 27a: First end 27b: Second end 28: Software assembly 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d: Opening 29a: Upper portion 29b: Lower portion 40: Top assembly 41a, 41b, 41c, 41d: Top corner area 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d: top connector 46: engagement element 47: actuation area 50: top frame 50a, 50b: support frame 50a', 50b', 50c', 50d': side support 51: top software 52: top base 53a: first side 53b: second side 54: top support 56: top connector 140: top assembly 145a: top connector 146: engagement element 147: actuator 210: play yard assembly 220: play yard 221: corner area 224: corner post 225: playard connector 226: engagement element 227: X-frame assembly 226a: actuation area 226b: bottom support 230: first shell 230a: defined cavity 230b: support surface 231: second shell 235: biasing element 240: top assembly 245: top connector 246: receiving portion 340: top assembly 342: frame structure 342a: first frame 342b: second frame 344: corner frame connector 345: top connector 346: engagement element 440: top assembly 442: frame structure 442a: first frame 442b: Second frame 442b': Head section 444: Corner frame connector 444a: Receptacle 444b: Retaining structure 445: Top connector 446: Receptacle 520: Playard assembly 522: Frame 524a, 524b, 524c, 524d: Corner posts 525a, 525b, 525c, 525d: Playard connector 527: X-frame assembly 530a, 530b: Sliders 531: Sliding support 532: Retaining element 533: Playard magnet 540: Top assembly 542: First side frame 542a, 542b: Frame halves 543: Second side frame 543a, 543b: Frame halves 544a, 544b: Frame connectors 547: Actuator 545a, 545b, 545c, 545d: Top connectors 548a, 548a': Drive actuator member 548b, 548b': Actuator arms 549a, 549b: Magnetic element/top magnet 552: Top base 625: Playard connector 645: Top connector 640: Top assembly 647: Actuator 648a, 648a': Drive actuator member 648b, 648b': Actuator wires 651: Bias element 1520: Playard/Playard Assembly 1522: Frame 1524a, 1524b, 1524c, 1524d: Corner Posts 1525a, 1525b, 1525c, 1525d: Playard Connectors 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d: Sliding Supports 1527: X-Frame Assembly 1540: Top Assembly 1542: First Side Frame 1542a, 1542b: Frame Halves 1543: Second Side Frame 1543a, 1543b: Frame Halves 1544a, 1544b: Frame Connectors 1545, 1545a, 1545b, 1545c, 1545d: Top Connectors 1547: actuator 1548: recess 1550: drive actuator member 1551: biasing element 1552: top base 1554: receiving portion 1582: connecting member 1584: retaining clip 1586: shield 1648: actuator wire 1650: sliding support 1652: latch 1654: buckle 1656: actuator portion

The foregoing invention and the following embodiments will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate preferred embodiments of the present disclosure. In the accompanying drawings:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a play yard assembly according to one example.

FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the playard assembly.

3 is an enlarged top view of a corner area of the playard assembly in a fully attached or connected state.

4 is an enlarged top view of a corner area of the playard assembly in a separated or disconnected state.

FIG. 5 is a side view of a corner area of a top assembly for a playard assembly.

FIG. 6 is a side view of the playard assembly with the frame partially exposed.

FIG. 7A is a side perspective view of the playard assembly with the top assembly in a first state.

FIG. 7B is a side perspective view of the playard assembly with the top assembly in the second state.

FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of the top assembly.

FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of the interior of the playard connector.

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of the playard frame in a stacked state.

FIG. 10B is a perspective view of the playard frame in a stacked state and arranged within the top assembly.

11A-11C are enlarged top perspective views of various usage conditions of another example of a connection interface between a top assembly and a playard frame.

Figure 12A is an enlarged perspective view of the exterior of a playard frame according to one example.

FIG. 12B is an enlarged perspective view of the interior of the playard frame of FIG. 12A .

FIG. 13A is an enlarged perspective view of the exterior of the playard frame of FIGS. 12A and 12B engaged with the top assembly.

13B is an enlarged perspective view of the exterior of the playard frame of FIGS. 12A and 12B with the top assembly disengaged.

FIG. 14 is an enlarged perspective view of the top of the playbed frame of FIGS. 12A and 12B .

15 is an exploded perspective view of a playard connector for use with the playard frame of FIGS. 12A and 12B.

Figure 16A is a side perspective view of a top assembly according to another example.

Figure 16B is an end perspective view of the top assembly of Figure 16A.

Figure 17A is a perspective view of a top assembly according to another example.

Figure 17B is an enlarged view of the corner frame connector of the top assembly of Figure 17A in the assembled state.

Figure 17C is an enlarged view of the corner frame connector of the top assembly of Figure 17A in an unassembled state.

Figure 18 shows a perspective view of a playard and top assembly according to another example.

Figure 19A shows a perspective view of the top assembly of Figure 18.

Figure 19B shows an enlarged perspective view of a corner of the top assembly of Figure 19A.

Figure 20A is a cross-sectional perspective view of a corner of the top assembly in a first state.

Figure 20B is a cross-sectional perspective view of a corner of the play yard assembly in the second state.

Figure 20C is a top cutaway view of the top and one side of the playard assembly.

Figure 21 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a corner of the frame assembly.

Figure 22A is a top cross-sectional view of the top and one side of the play yard assembly according to another aspect.

Figure 22B is a cutaway perspective view of the top and corners of the play yard assembly of Figure 22A.

Figure 23 is a perspective view of a play yard assembly according to another example.

Figure 24 is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 23, showing the sliding support members and play yard connector of the play yard assembly.

FIG. 25 is a view similar to FIG. 24 with a portion of the playard connector removed to reveal otherwise hidden features.

Figure 26 is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 23, showing the actuator and frame connectors of the play yard assembly.

FIG. 27 is a view similar to FIG. 26 with a portion of the frame connector removed to reveal otherwise hidden features.

Figure 28 is a perspective view of the top connector.

FIG. 29 is an exploded view of the top connector of FIG. 28 .

10: Playground components

20: Playground

22: Framework

24a, 24b: Corner columns

28:Software components

29a: Upper part

29b: Lower part

40: Top assembly

41a, 41b, 41c: Top corner area

52: Top base

54: Top support

Claims (40)

A playard assembly, comprising: a playard having at least one playard connector at least partially defined at a playard corner region; a top assembly having at least one top connector at least partially defined at a top corner region; and at least one actuator configured to selectively control engagement between the at least one top connector and the at least one playard connector. A play yard assembly as described in claim 1, wherein the top assembly includes: a first side frame; a second side frame; and at least one frame connector configured to connect the first side frame and the second side frame. A play yard assembly as described in claim 2, wherein the first side frame is composed of two first frame halves and the second side frame is composed of two second frame halves. A play yard assembly as described in claim 2, wherein the first side frame and the second side frame each have a quadrilateral outline including two transverse side frame portions and two longitudinal side frame portions, and at least one actuator is arranged on at least one of the two transverse side frame portions. A play yard assembly as described in claim 1, wherein the at least one actuator includes at least one drive actuator member attached to at least one actuator arm, wherein the at least one actuator arm is configured to engage with the at least one play yard connector of the play yard. The play yard assembly of claim 5, wherein the at least one actuator arm is configured to move to engage and disengage a retaining element on the at least one play yard connector. A play yard assembly as described in claim 6, wherein the retaining element includes a spring-loaded protrusion. A play yard assembly as described in claim 5, wherein the at least one actuator arm is housed within a frame of the top assembly. A play yard assembly as described in claim 1, wherein the at least one actuator includes at least one drive actuator member attached to at least one actuator line. A play yard assembly as described in claim 9, wherein the at least one drive actuator component is attached to one end of the at least one actuator wire, and the at least one drive actuator component is configured to engage with a biasing element so that the at least one drive actuator component is driven to engage with the at least one play yard connector of the play yard. A play yard assembly as described in claim 10, wherein the engagement of the at least one actuator is configured to pull the at least one actuator wire so that the at least one drive actuator component overcomes the biasing element and is driven inward, and the at least one drive actuator component is disengaged from the at least one play yard connector of the play yard. A play yard assembly as described in claim 1, wherein the at least one actuator is configured to selectively disengage two drive actuator components from two corresponding play yard connectors of the play yard. A play yard assembly as described in claim 1, wherein the at least one play yard connector includes at least one first magnetic element, the at least one top connector includes at least one second magnetic element, and the at least one first magnetic element and the at least one second magnetic element are configured to attract each other. The play yard assembly of claim 1, wherein the play yard includes at least one corner post, and wherein the at least one play yard connector is positioned at one end of the at least one corner post. A play yard assembly as described in claim 14, wherein the play yard assembly further includes at least one slider slidably connected to the at least one corner post. The play yard assembly of claim 15, wherein the at least one slider comprises a sleeve, wherein the sleeve comprises polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). A play yard assembly as described in claim 2, wherein the at least one actuator is at least partially supported by the frame connector. A play yard assembly as described in claim 17, wherein the at least one actuator is at least partially supported in a recess in the frame connector. A play yard assembly as described in claim 18, wherein the at least one actuator is movable in a vertical direction within the recess to disengage the at least one top connector from the at least one play yard connector. A play yard assembly as described in claim 19, wherein the at least one actuator is movable downwardly to disengage the at least one top connector from the at least one play yard connector. A play yard assembly as described in claim 1, wherein the at least one actuator is configured to selectively control the engagement between at least two top connectors and at least two play yard connectors. A play yard assembly as described in claim 21, wherein the at least one actuator includes two actuators. The play yard assembly of claim 22, wherein the top assembly includes a first frame and a second frame, and wherein the two actuators are defined along lateral sides of the first frame and the second frame. A play yard assembly as described in claim 21, wherein the at least two play yard connectors each include a first magnetic element, and the at least two top connectors each include a second magnetic element, wherein the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element are configured to align the at least two play yard connectors and the at least two top connectors. A top assembly configured to be selectively attached to a playard, wherein the top assembly includes: a first frame and a second frame; a first frame connector and a second frame connector, each of the first frame connector and the second frame connector connects the first frame and the second frame; a plurality of top connectors, each of the top connectors configured to selectively engage with the playard; and a first actuator and a second actuator, each of the first actuator and the second actuator disposed on the second frame, wherein the first actuator and the second actuator are configured to control the engagement of the plurality of top connectors with the playard. A top assembly as described in claim 25, wherein the first actuator and the second actuator are both located at a corresponding one of the first frame connector and the second frame connector. A top assembly as described in claim 25, wherein the first frame and the second frame each include two lateral sides and two longitudinal sides longer than the two lateral sides, wherein the first actuator and the second actuator are each arranged on a corresponding one of the two lateral sides. A top assembly as described in claim 25, wherein each of the plurality of top connectors includes at least one magnetic element, and the at least one magnetic element is configured to engage with a corresponding magnetic element on the playbed. A top assembly configured to be selectively attached to a playard, wherein the top assembly includes: a first frame and a second frame; a first frame connector and a second frame connector, each of the first frame connector and the second frame connector connecting the first frame and the second frame; a plurality of top connectors, each of the top connectors being configured to selectively engage with the playard; and a first actuator and a second actuator, each of the first actuator and the second actuator being disposed on the second frame, wherein the first actuator and the second actuator are configured to control the engagement of the plurality of top connectors with the playard; wherein the first actuator and the second actuator are configured to be pressed in a downward direction to disengage the plurality of top connectors from the playard. A top assembly as described in claim 29, wherein the first actuator and the second actuator are both located at a corresponding one of the first frame connector and the second frame connector. A top assembly as described in claim 29, wherein the first frame and the second frame each include two lateral sides and two longitudinal sides longer than the two lateral sides, wherein the first actuator and the second actuator are each arranged on a corresponding one of the two lateral sides. A play yard assembly configured to be selectively attached to a top assembly, wherein the play yard assembly includes: a plurality of corner posts; a plurality of play yard connectors, each play yard connector disposed on a corresponding one of the plurality of corner posts; a plurality of sliding supports, each sliding support disposed on a corresponding one of the plurality of corner posts and configured to slide up and down relative to the corresponding one of the plurality of corner posts; and a plurality of X-frame assemblies, each X-frame assembly extending between a corresponding pair of the plurality of corner posts and coupled to one of the plurality of play yard connectors and one of the plurality of sliding supports on each corner post; Thus, movement of the plurality of sliding supports along the corner posts toward the plurality of play yard connectors causes the play yard assembly to unfold, and movement of the plurality of sliding supports along the corner posts away from the plurality of play yard connectors causes the play yard assembly to fold. The play yard assembly of claim 32, wherein at least one play yard connector and at least one sliding support are releasably connected to each other to maintain the play yard assembly in an expanded state. A play yard assembly as described in claim 33, wherein the at least one play yard connector and the at least one sliding support that are releasably connected to each other include cooperating connecting parts. A play yard assembly as described in claim 34, wherein the cooperating connection components include a latch associated with the play yard connector and a buckle associated with the sliding support, and the latch and buckle are configured to engage with each other to limit the sliding support from moving away from the play yard connector. A play yard assembly as described in claim 35, wherein the latch includes an actuator for disengaging the latch from the buckle. A play yard assembly as described in claim 36, wherein the latch is biased into an engaged position. A top assembly configured to be selectively attached to a playard, wherein the top assembly comprises: a frame; a top base supported by the frame, the top base comprising a first surface and an opposing second surface; and at least one top connector configured to selectively engage with the playard; wherein the frame is connectable to the playard via the at least one top connector in a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein the first surface faces upward in the first configuration and the second surface faces upward in the second configuration. The top assembly of claim 38, wherein the top assembly further comprises: an actuator disposed on the frame, the actuator being configured to be pressed in a downward direction to disengage the at least one top connector from the playard. A top assembly as described in claim 38, wherein the at least one top connector includes a plurality of top connectors, each top connector is at least partially defined at a corresponding top corner region, and each of the plurality of top connectors is positioned to engage with a corresponding playbed connector defined at a playbed corner region.