U.S. patent application number 12/414254 was filed with the patent office on 2010-06-17 for bedding cover with integrated runner.
Invention is credited to Vijay A. Bhuta.
Application Number | 20100146701 12/414254 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42238840 |
Filed Date | 2010-06-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100146701 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bhuta; Vijay A. |
June 17, 2010 |
Bedding Cover with Integrated Runner
Abstract
A bedding cover (100) having a runner layer (101) that simulates
an overlaid bed scarf is provided. The runner layer (101) can be
coupled to the cover material of the bedding cover (100) as a link,
thereby preventing pillowing issues. The runner layer (101)
provides both an aesthetically pleasing, upscale ornamental
appearance as well as a subliminal target for bags and shoes. The
runner layer (101) can include flanges (404). The flanges (404) can
be pinned to the cover material with outer stitches (501,502), or
tacked to the cover material with tag stitches (601,602).
Inventors: |
Bhuta; Vijay A.; (Diamond
Bar, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PHILIP H. BURRUS, IV
460 Grant Street
Atlanta
GA
30312
US
|
Family ID: |
42238840 |
Appl. No.: |
12/414254 |
Filed: |
March 30, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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61121602 |
Dec 11, 2008 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
5/502 ;
5/482 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47G 9/0261 20130101;
A47G 9/0284 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
5/502 ;
5/482 |
International
Class: |
A47G 9/02 20060101
A47G009/02; A47G 9/00 20060101 A47G009/00 |
Claims
1. A bedding cover, comprising: a cover layer of material; and a
runner layer fixedly integrated with the cover layer of material
and spanning a width of the cover layer of material such that a
first section of the cover layer of material extends distally from
the runner layer in a first direction and a second section of the
cover layer of material extends distally from the runner layer in a
second direction, the runner layer configured to simulate a bed
scarf; wherein the cover layer and runner layer each comprise
separate layers of material.
2. The bedding cover of claim 1, wherein the cover layer of
material comprises a first piece of the cover layer of material
independent from a second piece of the cover layer of material,
wherein the runner layer is sewn to the first piece of the cover
layer of material along a first side of the runner layer, the first
side being parallel with the width of the cover layer of material,
and the runner layer is sewn to the second piece of the cover layer
of material along a second side of the runner layer, the second
side being parallel with the width of the cover layer of material,
such that the runner layer spans between and links the first piece
of the cover layer of material and the second piece of the cover
layer of material.
3. The bedding cover of claim 2, wherein the runner layer is
coupled to each of the first piece of the cover layer of material
and the second piece of the cover layer of material, along the
first side and the second side, by at least one stitch spanning the
width of the cover layer of material.
4. The bedding cover of claim 3, wherein the runner layer is
further coupled to each of the first piece of the cover layer of
material and the second piece of the cover layer of material by an
overlock stitch.
5. The bedding cover of claim 1, wherein the runner layer comprises
a subliminal target for a bed.
6. The bedding cover of claim 5, wherein the subliminal target
comprises a target for one of luggage, shoes, or feet.
7. The bedding cover of claim 1, wherein the runner layer is
between fifteen and thirty inches wide.
8. The bedding cover of claim 1, wherein the runner layer comprises
a first flange and a second flange, each flange traversing the
width of the cover layer of material.
9. The bedding cover of claim 8, wherein each of the first flange
and the second flange of the runner layer is pinned to the cover
layer of material by a continuous stitch.
10. The bedding cover of claim 8, wherein each of the first flange
and the second flange of the runner layer is tacked to the cover
layer of material by a plurality of tag stitches, wherein each of
the plurality of tag stitches is spaced from each other of the
plurality of tag stitches across the width of the cover layer of
material.
11. The bedding cover of claim 1, wherein the bedding cover
comprises a duvet cover.
12. The bedding cover of claim 1, wherein the runner layer
comprises a wear retardant.
13. A bedding cover, comprising: an upper layer, wherein the upper
layer comprises three sections, each distinct from the other, each
of the three sections being sewn together such that a second
section is disposed between a first section and a third section so
as to resemble a runner passing across the upper layer; wherein the
second section is configured to simulate a bed scarf; and a lower
layer; wherein the upper layer and the lower layer define an
aperture through which a comforter may be inserted.
14. The bedding cover of claim 13, wherein the first section and
the third section comprise a first material, wherein the second
section comprises a second material, wherein the first material and
the second material are different.
15. The bedding cover of claim 14, wherein the first material and
the second material are different in color.
16. The bedding cover of claim 14, wherein the first material
comprises one of a first pattern or a first texture disposed
thereon and the second material comprises one of a second pattern
or a second texture disposed thereon, wherein the first pattern and
the second pattern are different and the first texture and the
second texture are different.
17. The bedding cover of claim 14, wherein the lower layer
comprises a third material, wherein the third material is different
from the first material and the second material.
18. A method of transforming a bed from an unmade state to a made
state, the method of transforming comprising: providing a bed cover
comprising a runner layer integrated by stitching with one or more
cover layers of material that are discrete from the runner layer,
the runner layer being configured to simulate a bed scarf, the
runner layer spanning a width of the one or more cover layers of
material such that a first section of the one or more cover layers
of material extends distally from the runner layer in a first
direction and a second section of the one or more cover layers of
material extends distally from the runner layer in a second
direction; and placing the bed cover across the bed.
19. The method of transforming the bed from the unmade state to the
made state of claim 18, wherein the bed comprises a bed width, a
head end, and a foot end, wherein the placing the bed cover across
the bed comprises placing the bed cover on the bed such that the
runner layer spans the width and is disposed closer to the foot end
than the head end.
20. The method of claim 19, further comprising the step of
inserting a comforter within the bed cover.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO PRIOR APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority and benefit under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn. 119(e) from U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/121,602,
filed Dec. 11, 2008.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Technical Field
[0003] This invention relates generally a covering for a bed, such
as a duvet or bedspread, and more particularly to a covering having
an integrated runner spanning the width of the covering near the
foot of the covering.
[0004] 2. Background Art
[0005] Bedspreads and duvet covers in hotels receive extraordinary
amounts of wear. One source of wear comes from hotel guests. For
example, it is almost instinctive to some guests, at the moment of
entering the room, to throw a suitcase or travel bag atop the bed
covering. These bags and suitcases are often rough from being
carried and generally cause mechanical wear to the covering.
Additionally, bags and suitcases tend to be dirty and often stain
or discolor the covering. Further, guests frequently relax, such as
while watching the television, while lying atop the covering. In so
doing, shoes or feet can get rubbed across the covering, further
discoloring or staining the fabric.
[0006] Another source of wear comes from hotel staff. When one
guest vacates, the housekeeping staff must wash the bed covering.
In the case of a duvet cover, the staff must first remove the
comforter, then wash the cover, and then reinsert the comforter.
Frequently the covering must be ironed before it can be put back on
a bed. Extensive washing, folding, ironing, and handling stresses
the material of the covering.
[0007] At the same time, hotel guests are demanding amenities that
are less institutional and more like the comforts of home. For
instance, duvet covers with comforters are replacing bedspreads due
to their added comfort. High thread-count cotton sheets are
replacing cotton-polyester blends due to their added softness. Down
pillows are replacing fiberfill pillows. Accoutrements such as bed
scarves, accent pillows, and so forth are being added to hotel
rooms.
[0008] The problem with these "added comforts" is that they are
often not as durable. For example, silk is not as durable under
wear and cleaning as is polyesters. Additionally, each accoutrement
added requires more labor in that it must be cleaned and ironed
between each use.
[0009] There is thus a need for an improved bedding article that is
durable and withstands ordinary care, yet that is aesthetically
pleasing so as to work with modern styles.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals
refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the
separate views and which together with the detailed description
below are incorporated in and form part of the specification, serve
to further illustrate various embodiments and to explain various
principles and advantages all in accordance with the present
invention.
[0011] FIG. 1 illustrates a top, plan view of one bed covering in
accordance with embodiments of the invention.
[0012] FIG. 2 illustrates a bottom, plan view of one bed covering
in accordance with embodiments of the invention.
[0013] FIG. 3 illustrates a cut-away bottom, plan view of a bed
covering in accordance with embodiments of the invention that
reveals a runner integrated with the top layer.
[0014] FIG. 4 illustrates one exemplary attachment of an integrated
runner with a bed covering in accordance with embodiments of the
invention.
[0015] FIG. 5 illustrates one exemplary attachment of an integrated
runner with a bed covering in accordance with embodiments of the
invention.
[0016] FIG. 6 illustrates one exemplary attachment of an integrated
runner with a bed covering in accordance with embodiments of the
invention.
[0017] FIG. 7 illustrates a sectional elevation view of a bed
covering in accordance with embodiments of the invention.
[0018] FIG. 8 illustrates a plan view and side view of one
embodiment of a bed covering in accordance with the invention.
[0019] FIG. 9 illustrates a method of using a bed covering in
accordance with embodiments of the invention.
[0020] FIG. 10 illustrates a decorative bed covering in accordance
with embodiments of the invention.
[0021] FIG. 11 illustrates an alternate bed covering in accordance
with embodiments of the invention.
[0022] FIG. 12 illustrates tag stitches suitable for use with
embodiments of the invention.
[0023] Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the
figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not
necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of
some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to
other elements to help to improve understanding of embodiments of
the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0024] Embodiments of the invention are now described in detail.
Referring to the drawings, like numbers indicate like parts
throughout the views. As used in the description herein and
throughout the claims, the following terms take the meanings
explicitly associated herein, unless the context clearly dictates
otherwise: the meaning of "a," "an," and "the" includes plural
reference, the meaning of "in" includes "in" and "on." Relational
terms such as first and second, top and bottom, and the like may be
used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity
or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such
relationship or order between such entities or actions. Also,
reference designators shown herein in parenthesis indicate
components shown in a figure other than the one in discussion. For
example, talking about a device (10) while discussing figure A
would refer to an element, 10, shown in figure other than figure
A.
[0025] Embodiments of the present invention provide a bed covering,
such as a duvet cover, having an integrated runner. In one
embodiment, the integrated runner is made from a runner layer that
is integrated with a cover layer of material by stitching or
sewing. The runner layer spans the width of the cover layer so as
to simulate a bed scarf. However, rather than being a detachable
bed scarf, the runner layer is physically coupled to the cover
layer.
[0026] In many hotels, guests are treated to an aesthetic luxury
with respect to their bedding as hotels are providing a comforter
and duvet cover with a bed runner spanning there across. The bed
runner is a scarf of roughly twenty inches in width that spans the
foot of the bed atop the duvet cover to provide a splash of color.
While traditional runners are problematic in that they comprise an
additional object that must be laundered and ironed, embodiments of
the present invention provide an integrated runner that is sewn
into the duvet cover so it is automatically washed whenever the
duvet cover is laundered.
[0027] In one embodiment, the runner layer of the present invention
spans the width of the cover layer to which it is attached such
that a first section of the cover layer material extends distally
from the runner layer in a first direction. Likewise, a second
section of the cover layer material extends distally from the
runner layer in a second direction. In one embodiment, the first
section and second section will be different in size such that the
runner layer is disposed towards the bottom, or foot end, of the
bedding cover. In one embodiment, the runner layer is coupled to
the cover layer substantially parallel with the width of the cover
layer.
[0028] Turning now to FIG. 1, illustrated therein is one embodiment
of a bedding cover 100 in accordance with embodiments of the
invention. Note that while a bedding cover 100 configured as a
duvet cover is used herein as an exemplary embodiment, it will be
clear to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of
this disclosure that the invention is not so limited. The runner
layer 101 described herein could also be integrated with a quilt,
bedspread, top sheet, throw, or other bed covering.
[0029] In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 1, the bedding cover
comprises a runner layer 101 and a cover layer 102. The runner
layer 101 is integrated with the cover layer 102 and, in one
embodiment, spans substantially the width 105 of the cover layer
102. The runner layer 101 can be disposed substantially parallel
with the width 105 of the cover layer 102 such that the runner
layer 101 forms a horizontal swath across the cover layer 102 when
viewed in the orientation shown in FIG. 1.
[0030] In FIG. 1, the bedding cover 100 includes a top, or head end
106, and a bottom, or foot end 107. In the illustrative embodiment
of FIG. 1, the runner layer 101 is integrated with the cover layer
such that a first section 103 of the cover layer 102 extends
distally from the runner layer 101 in a first direction 109.
Further, a second section 104 of the cover layer 102 extends from
the runner layer 101 in a second direction 109. In so doing, the
runner layer 101 is disposed closer to the foot end 107 than the
head end 106, thereby effectively spanning the foot portion of the
bedding cover 100.
[0031] In one embodiment, the first section 103 of the cover layer
102 and the second section 104 of the cover layer 102 are separate
sections, and are physically separated from each other. In such an
embodiment, the runner layer 101 is sewn to the first section 103
of the cover layer 102 along a first side 110 of the runner layer
101 by at least one stitch. Similarly, the second section 104 of
the cover layer 102 is sewn to the runner layer 101 along a second
side 111 of the runner layer 101. In this configuration, the runner
layer 101 spans and links the first section 103 of the cover layer
102 and the second section 104 of the cover layer 102.
[0032] In another embodiment, the cover layer 102 comprises a
single piece of material, such that the first section 103 and the
second section 104 are interconnected and pass beneath the runner
layer 101. In such a configuration, the runner layer 101 is sewn to
the cover layer 102 by at least one stitch along a first side 110
of the runner layer 101. Similarly, the cover layer 102 is sewn to
the runner layer 101 by at least one stitch along a second side 111
of the runner layer 101. In this configuration, the runner layer
101 spans the cover layer 102 with the first section 103 of the
cover layer 102 and the second section 104 of the cover layer 102
extending distally in opposite directions from the runner layer
101.
[0033] In one embodiment, the first side 110 and the second side
111 of the runner layer 101 are oriented so as to be substantially
parallel with the width 105 of the cover layer 102. In one
embodiment, the runner layer 101 is between fifteen and thirty
inches in width. The runner layer 101 can be between ten and twenty
inches from the edge of the bed when the bedding cover 100 is
placed atop the bed. For example, the runner layer 101 may be
eighteen inches wide, and may be disposed fourteen inches away from
a foot end 107 of the bedding cover 100. The runner layer 101 can
include a flange, such as a one-half inch flange, so as to appear
more like a bed scarf that is independent from the cover layer 102.
In one embodiment the stitching coupling the runner layer 101 to
the cover layer 102 spans the width 105 of the cover layer 102. It
will be clear to those of ordinary skill in the art having the
benefit of this disclosure, however, that the invention is not so
limited. Other dimensions, equally simulating a bed scarf, could
also be used.
[0034] The bedding cover 100 and runner layer 101 can be
manufactured from a variety of materials, including polyester,
cotton, rayon, silk, wool, and blends thereof. In one embodiment,
the cover layer 102 and the runner layer 101 are manufactured from
the same material. In another embodiment, the cover layer 102 and
runner layer 101 are manufactured from different materials. For
instance, the runner layer 101 can be of a heavier and more durable
material while the cover layer 102 can be of a lighter
material.
[0035] By way of example, in one embodiment the cover layer 102 may
be manufactured from a blend, such as a 50% cotton and 50%
polyester blend. The runner layer 101 may be manufactured from the
same material. In another embodiment, as the runner layer 101 may
be subject to more wear than the cover layer 102, the cover layer
102 may be manufactured from a 50% cotton and 50% polyester blend,
while the runner layer 101 is manufactured from a 100% polyester
material.
[0036] Further, the runner layer 101 can include a "wear retardant"
112, such as a stain protective coating or micro-poly coating along
the fibers. The runner layer 101 can be made from a plurality of
layers, such as with a top, ornamental layer of material and a
lower, protective layer. For instance, the top layer of the runner
layer 101 can be a decorative material such as one manufactured
from cotton and polyester, while the lower layer can be a liquid
resistant layer such as a nylon layer.
[0037] The runner layer 101 can be the same color or a different
color than the cover layer 102. For instance, in one embodiment the
cover layer 102 and runner layer can both be beige. In another
embodiment, the cover layer 102 may be white, while the runner
layer is another color such as a cinnabar color. Similarly, the
cover layer 102 can be a light color, such as ivory or tan, while
the runner layer 101 is a contrasting color, such as gold, red, or
blue.
[0038] In one embodiment, one or both of the cover layer 102 and
runner layer 101 include textures (as shown in FIG. 10). The
texture of the cover layer 102 can be the same as the texture of
the runner layer 101, or they can be different. Similarly, one of
the cover layer 102 or the runner layer 101 can include a texture,
while the other does not. For instance, the cover layer 102 may be
generally smooth, while the runner layer includes a mayflower
jacquard. Further, either the cover layer 102 or the runner layer
101 can be manufactured from layered materials so as to have a
textured surface.
[0039] The runner layer 101 can provide multiple functions. First,
the runner layer 101 provides an aesthetically pleasing ornamental
appearance to the user. The runner layer 101 provides a splash of
color to the user that contrasts and/or compliments the color of
the bedding cover 100. Optionally, the runner layer 101 can provide
a different textural appearance as well.
[0040] Second, the runner layer 101 provides protection against
luggage, bags, and feet. In one embodiment, the runner layer 101 is
manufactured from a heavier material than is the bedding cover 100.
As such, it can withstand more wear. In another embodiment, the
runner layer 101 is manufactured from a darker material than is the
bedding cover 100. As such, it is configured to mask stains.
[0041] Third, the runner layer 101, in one embodiment, is
configured to be a subliminal target on a bed for hotel guests upon
entering the room. Recall from above that it can be nearly
instinctive to place bags atop a bed upon entering the hotel room.
When using embodiments of the present invention, the runner layer
101 can be colored and textured to provide a subliminal target for
these bags. Alternatively, the runner layer 101 can be a subliminal
target for shoes or feet. More times than not, people with toss
bags on the runner layer 101 over the bedding cover 100 when
placing bags on the bed.
[0042] Turning now to FIG. 2, illustrated therein is a rear view of
one embodiment of a bedding cover 100 in accordance with the
invention. As can be seen from this view, the bedding cover 100
includes a pocket member 201 into which a comforter can be
inserted. While the pocket member 201 of FIG. 2 is shown
illustratively as having its opening slightly offset from the head
end 106 of the bedding cover 100, it will be clear to those of
ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure
that the invention is not so limited. The opening can equally be
placed at the foot of the bedding cover 100, along the side of the
bedding cover 100, or somewhere in the middle of the bedding cover
100. Further, the opening can be placed on an end of the bedding
cover 100, as illustrated in FIG. 7.
[0043] The pocket member 201 can be manufactured by applying a
lower layer 202 of material to the bottom side of the cover layer
(102), and then tailoring an aperture in the lower layer 202. The
edges 203 of the aperture may include hems 204 thereabout to
prevent fraying or tearing when inserts, such as comforters and the
like, are inserted into, or removed from, the aperture. The lower
layer 202 can be constructed from the same or a different type of
material than that used for the cover layer (102) or the runner
layer (101). For instance where the cover layer (102) comprises
three sections, with the runner layer (101) serving as one section
and linking the first section (103) and the second section (104),
the lower layer 202 may be constructed from a material that is
different from those used in the cover layer (102) or runner layer
(101). The lower layer 202 may be a softer or more sheer material,
as it is likely to be placed next to a user's skin.
[0044] Turning now to FIG. 3, illustrated therein is a cut-away
view (dashed lines 350 and 351 represent the cut-away portion) of
the bottom side of a bedding cover 100 having a runner layer 101 in
accordance with embodiments of the invention. In FIG. 3, the bottom
layer of material has been cut away to reveal how, in this
exemplary embodiment, the runner layer 101 is attached to the
bedding cover 100.
[0045] In this embodiment, the cover layer 102 is constructed from
three sections, a first section 103 of the cover layer 102, a
second section 104 of the cover layer 102, and the runner layer
101. The runner layer 101 is sewn between the first section 103 and
the second section 104 such that the runner layer 101 functions a
"link" in that it joins first section 103 and the second section
104 of the cover layer 102. Specifically, the runner layer 101 is
joined to a first section 103 of cover layer 102 material along a
first junction seam 301, which may be at least one stitch spanning
the width (105) of the cover layer 102. Likewise, the runner layer
101 is joined to a second section 104 of cover layer 102 material
along a second junction seam 302. By configuring the runner layer
101 as a link, unsightly issues like pillowing between the runner
layer 101 and upper layer of duvet cover material can be avoided
during the laundering process. Further, the runner layer 101
resembles a runner or bed scarf passing across the cover layer
102.
[0046] Turning briefly to FIGS. 7 and 8, illustrated therein is a
sectional, elevation view of the bedding cover 100 that illustrates
one configuration for attaching the first section 103 to the runner
layer 101 and the second section 104 to the runner layer 101.
Specifically, at least one stitch 801 spanning substantially the
width (105) of the cover layer 102 can be used to couple the runner
layer 101 to each of the first section 103 and the second section
104. Further, to prevent the stitch 801 from coming unraveled, an
overlock stitch 802 may be used to couple the edges of the runner
layer 101 with the edges of the first section 103 and the second
section 104.
[0047] The lower layer 202 can also be seen in FIG. 7. As shown
from the drawing, in one embodiment the aperture, which may be for
insertion of a comforter, can be located at an end or edge of the
bedding cover 100. This is in contrast to the offset location shown
in FIG. 2.
[0048] Turning now to FIG. 4, illustrated therein is a first
coupling technique for integrating the runner layer 101 with the
cover layer 102 of the bedding cover 100. In FIG. 4, the cover
layer 102, the lower layer, and edge of the runner layer 101 are
joined by an exterior seam 403.
[0049] The runner layer 101 is joined to the first section 103 of
the cover layer 102 by a first seam 401 along a first side 110,
while the runner layer 101 is joined to the second section 104 of
cover layer 102 by a second seam 402 along a second side 111.
Specifically, in one embodiment the edges of the runner layer 101
are folded over so as to provide flange 404 that is approximately
one-half inch in width. The flange 404 can traverse the width (105)
of the cover layer 102. The flange 404 further makes the runner
layer 101 seem to "float" above the bedding cover 100 as if it was
a separate piece of material. In one embodiment, both the first
seam 401 and second seam 402 comprise one or more stitches having
between five and forty stitches per inch, such as ten stitches per
inch. Further, an overlock stitch may be added (as shown in FIG. 8)
beneath the cover layer 102 of the bedding cover 100 along seams
401 and 402, respectively.
[0050] Turning now to FIG. 5, illustrated therein is a second
coupling technique for integrating the runner layer 101 with the
cover layer 102. In FIG. 5, as with FIG. 4, the cover layer 102,
the lower layer 202, and the edge of the runner layer 101 are
joined by an exterior seam 403.
[0051] Also as with FIG. 4, the runner layer 101 of FIG. 5 is
joined to the first section 103 of the cover layer 102 by a first
seam 401, while the runner layer 101 is joined to the second
section 104 of the cover layer 102 by a second seam 402. The edges
of the runner layer 101 are folded over so as to provide flanges
404 that are between one-quarter and three inches in width. For
example, in one embodiment, the flange 404 measures approximately
two inches width. In another embodiment, the flange 404 measures
approximately one-half inch in width. In one embodiment, both the
first seam 401 and second seam 402 comprise one or more stitches
having ten stitches per inch and an overlock stitch beneath the
upper layer of the bedding cover 100 along seams 401 and 402,
respectively.
[0052] In FIG. 5, to ensure that the flanges 404 do not "fold back"
over the runner layer 101 so as to become aesthetically unpleasing,
in one embodiment an outer stitch is applied to the flange 404 to
"pin" it to the cover layer 102. Specifically, the upper flange is
pinned by stitch 501, while the lower flange is pinned by stitch
502. In one embodiment, stitch 501 and 502 comprises simple
stitches having ten stitches per inch without an overlock stitch.
These stitches 501,502 give the runner layer 101 a more subdued and
clean look.
[0053] Turning now to FIG. 6, illustrated therein is a third
coupling technique for integrating the runner layer 101 with the
cover layer 102. In FIG. 6, as with FIG. 4, the cover layer 102,
the lower layer 202, and the edge of the runner layer 101 are
joined by an exterior seam 403.
[0054] Also as with FIG. 4, the runner layer 101 of FIG. 6 is
joined to the first section 103 of the cover layer 102 by a first
seam 401, while the runner layer 101 is joined to the second
section 104 of the cover layer 102 by a second seam 402. The edges
of the runner layer 101 are folded over so as to provide flange 404
that is approximately one-half inch in width. In one embodiment,
both the first seam 401 and second seam 402 comprise one or more
stitches having ten stitches per inch and an overlock stitch
beneath the upper layer of the bedding cover 100 along seams 401
and 402, respectively.
[0055] Rather than continuously pinning the flanges 404 to the
duvet cover with outer stitching, in FIG. 6 the flanges 404 are
tacked to the bedding cover 100 with tag stitches 601,602. A
plurality of tag stitches 601,602 can be used, with each of the tag
stitches 601,602 is spaced apart from other tag stitches across the
width (105) of the cover layer 102.
[0056] As shown in the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 6, the upper
flange is tacked to the bedding cover 100 with tag stitches 601,
while the lower flange is tacked to the duvet cover with tag
stitches 602. In one embodiment, the tag stitches 601,602 are
spaced apart thirty-six inches are repeated across the width of the
bedding cover 100. This "bar tag" coupling holds the flanges 404 of
the runner layer 101 in place and requires less ironing than the
embodiment of FIG. 4. Further, the bar tags prevent the flanges 404
from rolling or folding during the laundering process.
[0057] Note that the tag stitches 601,602 shown in FIG. 6 are
stitches that run generally perpendicular to the edge of the runner
layer 101. It will be clear to those of ordinary skill in the art
having the benefit of this disclosure, however, that the
embodiments of the invention are not so limited. Turning briefly to
FIG. 12, illustrated therein are a few alternate embodiments that
may be employed as tag stitches. By way of example, tag stitch 1201
runs only part of the way between the first seam 401 and the edge
1203 of the runner layer. This tag stitch 1201 can run any length
between the first seam 401 and the edge 1203, including a quarter
of the way, half way, two-thirds of the way, and so forth.
[0058] Tag stitch 1202 is a triangular-shaped tag stitch, which is
wider at the first seam 401 than at the edge 1203. Note that this
tag stitch 1202 could also be inverted. Similarly, tag stitch 1204
is triangular in shape and only extends partially between the first
seam 401 and the edge 1203 of the runner layer 101. Further, a
small tag stitch 1204 can be used. Tag stitches other than those
shown may also be employed.
[0059] As noted above, the runner layer 101 and cover layer 102 may
have different appearances. Turning briefly to FIG. 10, illustrated
therein is one such embodiment. Specifically, in FIG. 10, the
runner layer 1001 has a texture 1003 and color 1004 that is
distinct from the color 1005 and texture 1006 of the cover layer
1002. Such a configuration makes the runner layer "pop" off the
cover layer when viewed by a guest in a hotel room.
[0060] Turning briefly to FIG. 11, illustrated therein is one
embodiment of a bedding cover 1100 having yet another appearance in
accordance with embodiments of the invention. Specifically, while
the runner layers of other figures have been generally straight
along the sides, the runner layer 1101 of FIG. 11 has a
free-flowing edge 1111. Said differently, rather than having a
clean, straight edge, the runner layer 1101 has a free-flowing edge
1111 that includes curves and waves so as to appear as a more
casually placed runner atop the bed. It will be clear to those of
ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure
that the edges of the runner layer can take a variety of other
shapes as well. For example, the edges of the runner layer may be
scalloped, saw-tooth, or other aesthetically pleasing geometry.
[0061] Turning now to FIG. 9, illustrated therein is one embodiment
of a method 900 of using a bedding cover (100) to transform a bed
from an unmade state to a made state. Such a method 900 is suitable
for use by housekeeping personnel in a hotel, for example.
Similarly, the method 900 can be used by individuals at home as
well.
[0062] At step 901, used, soiled bedding is removed. This bedding
can then be laundered at step 902.
[0063] At step 903, a bedding cover (100) comprising a runner layer
(101) integrated with the one or more cover layers (102) of
material is provided. In one embodiment, the runner layer (101)
spans a width (105) of the cover layer (102) of material such that
a first section (103) of the cover layer (102) of material extends
distally from the runner layer (101) in a first direction (108) and
a second section (104) of the cover layer (102) of material extends
distally from the runner layer (101) in a second direction (109).
At optional step 904, an insert, such as a comforter or quilt is
inserted into the bedding cover (100).
[0064] At step 905, the bed is made using the bedding cover (100).
For example, the bedding cover (100) may be placed across clean
linens and spread neatly across the bed. At optional step 906, the
bedding cover (100) is arranged such that the runner layer (101)
spans the width of the bed and is disposed closer to the foot end
than the head end.
[0065] As described herein, embodiments of the present invention
provide a bedding cover with a two-piece look yet with one-piece
care. Specifically, the integrated runner appears to be a separate
piece of material. However, when laundering the bedding cover, only
a single item needs to be cleaned, thereby obviating the need to
wash multiple articles separately. As such, embodiments of the
present invention save water, detergent, and energy, and are thus
more environmentally friendly.
[0066] In the foregoing specification, specific embodiments of the
present invention have been described. However, one of ordinary
skill in the art appreciates that various modifications and changes
can be made without departing from the scope of the present
invention as set forth in the claims below. Thus, while preferred
embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described,
it is clear that the invention is not so limited. Numerous
modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents
will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the
spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the
following claims. Accordingly, the specification and figures are to
be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and
all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope
of present invention. The benefits, advantages, solutions to
problems, and any element(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage,
or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be
construed as a critical, required, or essential features or
elements of any or all the claims.
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