Modular Bird-Nest Nursing Pillow with Zipper-Connected U-Shaped Sections

Patent & Production

At a glance

What the claims cover, in plain language

Claim 1 defines a nursing pillow comprising a first U-shaped pillow (1), two side pillows (2), and a second U-shaped pillow (3). The side pillows have first connecting pieces (4) at one end, and the U-shaped pillows have second connecting pieces (5) at their ends. These pieces are detachably connected. The other ends of the side pillows also have connecting pieces to join the second U-shaped pillow.

Claim 2 adds a shielding curtain (6) with a hanging strip (7) for the neck. Claim 3 specifies third (8) and fourth (9) connecting pieces to attach the curtain to the main pillow bodies. Claim 4 lists the types of fasteners: zippers, buttons, buckles, or plugs/sockets. Claim 5 identifies hook-and-loop (Velcro) for the curtain connections. Claims 6-7 describe multiple connecting pieces distributed equidistantly along the length of the pillows to allow for size adjustment. Claim 8-9 introduce airbags (10) on the inner edges, with thickness gradually reduced from inside to outside.

This is a simplified reading for orientation only. The legal scope is defined by the exact claim wording in the official Chinese document.

What this means for US production

This patent was filed in China and is currently lapsed due to non-payment of annual fees. The public record shows no US or other foreign counterpart. Therefore, the specific structural combination described in CN212382396U is not protected by active patent rights in China or the US based on this document alone.

Two points to settle early:

• Other patents may exist. Nursing pillows and modular baby accessories are competitive categories. While this specific patent is lapsed, other US patents covering similar modular assembly methods, airbag integration, or privacy curtains may still be in force. A freedom-to-operate (FTO) review is strongly recommended before launching a product based on this design.
• Safety standards. As a baby product, any US market entry must comply with CPSC regulations regarding flammability and small parts, independent of patent status.

Customization and manufacturing

What can be customized

Things to plan for (US market)

• 16 CFR 1610 - Standard for the Flammability of Clothing Textiles. All fabric components must pass burn tests.
• 16 CFR 1220 - Safety requirements for cribs apply if marketed as sleep-related, but generally nursing pillows fall under general product safety. Ensure no loose threads or small parts that pose choking hazards (ASTM F963 principles often applied voluntarily).
• Proposition 65 - California warning requirements for certain chemicals in dyes or plastics.
• Labeling - Care labels and country of origin marking are mandatory.

How a project runs

1. Inquiry - Define target market, price point, and key features (e.g., airbag vs. foam).
2. Design - Create technical patterns for the U-shapes and side panels; select fastener vendors.
3. Prototype - Sew sample units; test zipper durability and airbag inflation/deflation.
4. Pilot Run - Small batch production to verify assembly consistency and packaging.
5. Production - Full-scale cutting, sewing, filling, and final QC.

Quantities & timeline

Tooling is minimal as this is primarily a textile product. Costs are driven by labor-intensive sewing and quality of fasteners. Lead times depend on fabric sourcing and factory capacity. Send us your fabric preferences, fastener type, target retail price, and estimated quantity and we will reply with options.

Production notes

Tooling and process

Fabric sewing is the primary manufacturing step. Patterns must be precise to ensure the U-shapes and side pillows align correctly at the connection points. If airbags are used, they likely need a specialist bonding step, handled by a component supplier rather than the final assembler.

Cost drivers

Material certification for baby-safe fabrics adds cost. Heavy-duty zippers or buckles typically raise the price but improve durability. Labor costs usually dominate, especially if complex multi-point connection systems are implemented. Packaging must protect the modular nature without excessive bulk.

Prototyping path

Start with a 3D-printed fit sample to check ergonomics. Then proceed to fabric prototypes to test sewing tolerances. Perform small-parts and pinch tests on all fasteners; these typically catch the failures that matter most for infant products.

What we would change before tooling

We would likely simplify the connection mechanism. Using standard heavy-duty zippers instead of custom buckles could reduce assembly time and failure points. We would also verify if the tapered airbag design is necessary or if standard foam wedges provide sufficient support at lower cost.

Common failure points

Zipper jams or broken teeth are common failures in high-use items. Pinch points can occur if fingers get caught in buckles. Fabric tearing at stress points where connectors are sewn is a typical risk. Tipping is unlikely given the low center of gravity, but stability on slippery surfaces should be tested.

Patent drawings

Drawings reproduced from the public patent document for reference.

Frequently asked questions

How does the pillow adjust to my size?

The design uses multiple connection points spaced evenly along the side pillows and U-shaped sections. You can choose which set of fasteners to engage—such as a specific zipper position or button pair—to tighten or loosen the overall circumference of the ring.

Can I remove the parts for washing?

Yes. Because the components are connected via detachable fasteners like zippers or buckles, you can separate the U-shaped pillows and side pillows. This makes cleaning individual sections easier than washing a single bulky monolithic pillow.

What is the shielding curtain for?

The curtain attaches to the upper part of the pillow assembly near the neck area. It provides visual privacy when breastfeeding in public spaces or shared hospital rooms, helping the mother feel more comfortable and discreet.

Does it come with airbags?

The patent describes an option for airbags on the inner edges that taper in thickness. In production, these can be included for customizable firmness, or omitted in favor of traditional foam fill depending on the specific model you order.

Is this safe for newborns?

According to the patent, the structure is designed to support the baby during feeding. However, all baby products sold in the US must meet specific safety standards regarding flammability and small parts. We recommend consulting pediatric guidelines for appropriate use with newborns.

What materials are used?

The patent does not specify exact fabric types, leaving them to be confirmed in design. Typically, breathable cotton, bamboo, or hypoallergenic synthetic blends are used for nursing pillows. Fillings can be memory foam, fiber, or air chambers.

Can this design be made and sold in the US?

The patent CN212382396U is a Chinese utility model that has lapsed due to non-payment of annual fees. The public record shows no US counterpart. Therefore, this specific patent does not restrict manufacturing or selling in the US. However, other active patents in the baby product field may exist, so a freedom-to-operate review is advised.

Are you affiliated with the patent owner?

No. IP2M is an independent design and manufacturing service working from the public patent document.

Request a quote

Click Request a Quote below to see our email address - copy it, or open your email app with a ready-made message. Please mention patent CN212382396U in the subject.

Helpful details to include:

• Your company and channel (maternity brand, hospital supplier, e-commerce seller)
• Preferred fastener type (zipper, buckle, Velcro)
• Fabric material and color preferences
• Features (privacy curtain, airbag inserts, removable covers)
• Estimated quantity and target price
• Timeline - when you would like samples and the first shipment

You can also reach us at (332) 203-9997.