U.S. patent application number 14/244654 was filed with the patent office on 2014-10-30 for furniture cover devices and methods of use.
The applicant listed for this patent is Patricia J. Watson. Invention is credited to Patricia J. Watson.
Application Number | 20140318586 14/244654 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51788203 |
Filed Date | 2014-10-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140318586 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Watson; Patricia J. |
October 30, 2014 |
Furniture Cover Devices and Methods of Use
Abstract
A cover device configured to be used in combination with a
furniture piece. The device is selectively positionable between a
deployed orientation and one or more stowed orientations. In the
deployed orientation, a cover of the device extends over the
furniture piece and forms an interior space sized for a user. The
cover shelters the interior space from noise and light, and may
also insulate the interior space to control an interior
temperature. In the stowed orientations, the cover is positioned in
proximity to the furniture piece in a manner of the user's choosing
and may be configured to have an aesthetically pleasing
appearance.
Inventors: |
Watson; Patricia J.;
(Durham, NC) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Watson; Patricia J. |
Durham |
NC |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
51788203 |
Appl. No.: |
14/244654 |
Filed: |
April 3, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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61817753 |
Apr 30, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
135/90 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47C 29/003 20130101;
A47C 21/024 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
135/90 |
International
Class: |
E04H 15/02 20060101
E04H015/02; E04H 15/64 20060101 E04H015/64; E04H 15/32 20060101
E04H015/32 |
Claims
1. A cover device for a furniture piece that is positionable
between a deployed orientation that extends over the furniture
piece and a stowed orientation, the cover device comprising: a
cover sheet with a length measured between opposing first and
second longitudinal ends and a width measured between opposing
first and second lateral ends, the cover sheet being divided along
the width between a top section at a central portion of the width,
a first lateral side between the first lateral end and the top
section, and a second lateral side between the second lateral end
and the top section; a connector attached to the top section of the
cover sheet and being spaced away from each of the first and second
lateral sides; a hanger that engages with the connector to position
at least a portion of the top section vertically above the
furniture piece in the deployed orientation; and a tensioning
element attached to the top section of the cover sheet and being
spaced away from each of the first and second lateral sides, the
tensioning element configured to apply a tensioning force to the
top section of the cover sheet in the deployed orientation without
applying a force along the first and second lateral sides.
2. The cover device of claim 1, wherein the tensioning element is a
rod that is attached to the cover sheet.
3. The cover device of claim 1, wherein the tensioning element
comprises at least one elastic strap attached to the cover sheet
and including an outer end with a fastener to attach to the
furniture piece.
4. The cover device of claim 1, wherein the tensioning element is
positioned at the first longitudinal end of the cover sheet and the
connector is positioned at the second longitudinal end of the cover
sheet.
5. The cover device of claim 1, further comprising a slit in the
first lateral side of the cover sheet that extends inward from the
first lateral end towards the top section.
6. The cover device of claim 1, further comprising a seam that
connects the top section to one of the first and second lateral
sides.
7. The cover device of claim 1, further comprising a zipper that
connects the top section to one of the first and second lateral
sides, the zipper configured for removing the lateral side from the
top section.
8. The cover device of claim 1, wherein the connector is positioned
at an intermediate position long the length of the top section
between the first and second longitudinal ends.
9. A cover device for a furniture piece that is positionable
between a deployed orientation that extends over the furniture
piece and a stowed orientation, the cover device comprising: a
cover sheet with a central section that extends between first and
second ends, a first lateral section that extends between the first
and second ends, and a second lateral section that extends between
the first and second ends, the first and second lateral sections
being positioned on opposing lateral sides of the central section;
a hanger that engages with the central section to position at least
a portion of the central section vertically above the furniture
piece in the deployed orientation; and a tensioning element
attached to the central section away from each of the first and
second lateral sections; the tensioning element configured to apply
a force to just the central section to reduce deflection of the
central section in the deployed orientation; each of the first and
second lateral sections being isolated from the force to hang
downward from the central section in the deployed orientation.
10. The cover device of claim 9, wherein the cover sheet includes a
total of four sides.
11. The cover device of claim 9, wherein the cover sheet includes a
total of five sides.
12. The cover device of claim 9, wherein the tensioning element
comprises at least one elastic strap attached to the central
section of the cover sheet.
13. The cover device of claim 9, wherein the tensioning element
includes a plurality of weighted elements positioned along a width
of the central section.
14. The cover device of claim 9, further comprising an enclosure
formed along the central section of the cover sheet, the enclosure
sized to contain the tensioning element.
15. The cover device of claim 9, wherein the hanger is attached to
the second end of the cover sheet and the tensioning element is
attached to the first end of the cover sheet.
16. A cover device for a furniture piece that is positionable
between a deployed orientation that extends over the furniture
piece and a stowed orientation, the cover device comprising: a
cover sheet with a length measured between opposing first and
second longitudinal ends and a width measured between opposing
first and second lateral ends, the cover sheet being divided along
the width between a first section and a second section; a connector
attached to the first section of the cover sheet and being spaced
away from the second section; a hanger that engages with the
connector to position at least a portion of the first section
vertically above the furniture piece in the deployed orientation;
and a tensioning element attached to the first section of the cover
sheet and being spaced away from the second section, the tensioning
element configured to apply a tensioning force to the first section
of the cover sheet in the deployed orientation without applying a
force to the second section.
17. The cover device of claim 16, wherein the second section is
isolated from the tensioning force to hang downward from the first
section in the deployed orientation.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims the benefit of U.S.
Application 61/817,753 filed on Apr. 30, 2013 and entitled
Furniture Piece Cover Device and Method of Use. This application is
hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Furniture pieces come in a variety of different shapes and
sizes. Examples include beds, sofas, and chairs. The furniture
pieces may be used for variety of different purposes, such as
sleeping, sitting, working on a computer, and reading.
[0003] There are many contexts in which a cover that extends over
the furniture piece and the user would be desirable. These may
include to keep the user warm, to prevent air drafts and/or outside
light from reaching the user (such as when the user is sleeping),
to reduce outside noise from reaching the user, and to provide
privacy to the user.
[0004] Previous attempts have been made to provide covers to
furniture pieces. However, each of these attempts had meaningful
drawbacks. Some covers are not effective in accomplishing their
desired function. This may include that light, noise, cold air,
and/or air drafts were able to reach the user within the cover, and
the cover provided little-to-no privacy for the user. Another issue
with previous covers is they were aesthetically unattractive. This
may include that the cover looked bad when deployed over the piece
and/or when the cover was removed from the piece.
[0005] Previous covers also failed because of a lack of
adjustability. This may include when they lack of an exit route for
the user. Previous covers further did not provide for a stowed
position when not in use. These covers required the user to remove
the cover from the furniture piece and store it away (e.g., in a
closet or underneath the furniture piece). Otherwise, the cover was
aesthetically unpleasing as there was no other way for the cover to
be stowed. This caused the user to either leave the cover over the
furniture at all times, or fail to use the cover because the set-up
was difficult and/or time consuming.
SUMMARY
[0006] The present application is directed to a device for covering
a furniture piece. The device is positionable in a deployed
orientation that extends over the furniture piece and forms an
isolated interior space for the user. The device is also
positionable in one or more stowed orientations that are located in
proximity to the furniture piece. The stowed orientations provide
an aesthetically pleasing appearance that blends in with the
furniture piece in a manner of the user's choosing, such that the
device does not need to be removed when not in the deployed
orientation. Further, the device provides for a straight-forward
process of moving between the deployed and stowed orientations.
[0007] One embodiment is directed to a cover device for a furniture
piece that is positionable between a deployed orientation that
extends over the furniture piece and a stowed orientation. The
cover device includes a cover sheet with a length measured between
opposing first and second longitudinal ends and a width measured
between opposing first and second lateral ends. The cover sheet is
divided along the width between a top section at a central portion
of the width, a first lateral side between the first lateral end
and the top section, and a second lateral side between the second
lateral end and the top section. A connector is attached to the top
section of the cover sheet and is spaced away from each of the
first and second lateral sides. A hanger engages with the connector
to position at least a portion of the top section vertically above
the furniture piece in the deployed orientation. A tensioning
element is attached to the top section of the cover sheet and is
spaced away from each of the first and second lateral sides. The
tensioning element is configured to apply a tensioning force to the
top section of the cover sheet in the deployed orientation without
applying a force along the first and second lateral sides.
[0008] The tensioning element may be a rod that is attached to the
cover sheet.
[0009] The tensioning element may include at least one elastic
strap attached to the cover sheet and may include an outer end with
a fastener to attach to the furniture piece.
[0010] The tensioning element may be positioned at the first
longitudinal end of the cover sheet and the connector may be
positioned at the second longitudinal end of the cover sheet.
[0011] A slit may be positioned in the first lateral side of the
cover sheet that extends inward from the first lateral end towards
the top section.
[0012] A seam may connect the top section to one of the first and
second lateral sides.
[0013] A zipper may connect the top section to one of the first and
second lateral sides, and the zipper may be configured for removing
the lateral side from the top section.
[0014] The connector may be positioned at an intermediate position
long the length of the top section between the first and second
longitudinal ends.
[0015] Another embodiment is directed to a cover device for a
furniture piece that is positionable between a deployed orientation
that extends over the furniture piece and a stowed orientation. The
cover device includes a cover sheet with a central section that
extends between first and second ends, a first lateral section that
extends between the first and second ends, and a second lateral
section that extends between the first and second ends. The first
and second lateral sections are positioned on opposing lateral
sides of the central section. A hanger engages with the central
section to position at least a portion of the central section
vertically above the furniture piece in the deployed orientation. A
tensioning element is attached to the central section away from
each of the first and second lateral sections. The tensioning
element is configured to apply a force to just the central section
to reduce deflection of the central section in the deployed
orientation. Each of the first and second lateral sections are
isolated from the force to hang downward from the central section
in the deployed orientation.
[0016] The cover sheet may include a total of four sides.
[0017] The cover sheet may include a total of five sides.
[0018] The tensioning element may include at least one elastic
strap attached to the central section of the cover sheet.
[0019] The tensioning element may include weighted elements
positioned along a width of the central section.
[0020] An enclosure may be formed along the central section of the
cover sheet with the enclosure sized to contain the tensioning
element.
[0021] The hanger may be attached to the second end of the cover
sheet and the tensioning element may be attached to the first end
of the cover sheet.
[0022] Another embodiment is directed to a cover device for a
furniture piece that is positionable between a deployed orientation
that extends over the furniture piece and a stowed orientation. The
cover device includes a cover sheet with a length measured between
opposing first and second longitudinal ends and a width measured
between opposing first and second lateral ends. The cover sheet is
divided along the width between a first section and a second
section. A connector is attached to the first section of the cover
sheet and is spaced away from the second section. A hanger engages
with the connector to position at least a portion of the first
section vertically above the furniture piece in the deployed
orientation. A tensioning element is attached to the first section
of the cover sheet and is spaced away from the second section with
the tensioning element configured to apply a tensioning force to
the first section of the cover sheet in the deployed orientation
without applying a force to the second section.
[0023] The second section may be isolated from the tensioning force
to hang downward from the first section in the deployed
orientation.
[0024] The various aspects of the various embodiments may be used
alone or in any combination, as is desired.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0025] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a device in a deployed
orientation extending over a furniture piece.
[0026] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a device in a first stowed
orientation.
[0027] FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a device in a second stowed
orientation.
[0028] FIG. 3 is a schematic side view of the device of FIG. 1 in
the deployed orientation.
[0029] FIG. 4 is a schematic side view of the device of FIG. 2 in
the stowed orientation.
[0030] FIG. 5 is a schematic top view of a cover, a tensioning
element, and a hanger.
[0031] FIG. 6 is a schematic top view of a cover.
[0032] FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view of a cover in a
deployed orientation.
[0033] FIG. 8 is a sectional view of the cover of FIG. 7 cut along
line VIII-VIII.
[0034] FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of a cover in a
deployed orientation.
[0035] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a cover in a
deployed orientation.
[0036] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a device in a deployed
orientation.
[0037] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a device in a deployed
orientation.
[0038] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a device in a deployed
orientation.
[0039] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a device in a deployed
orientation.
[0040] FIG. 15 is a side view of a bracket of a hanger.
[0041] FIG. 16 is a side view of a two-piece bracket supporting an
elongated member and a weight.
[0042] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a device in a stowed
orientation.
[0043] FIG. 18 is a side schematic view of a device configured to
be attached to a ceiling.
[0044] FIG. 19 is a front schematic view of the device of FIG.
18.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0045] The present application is directed to a furniture cover
device configured to be used in combination with a furniture piece.
The device is selectively positionable between a deployed
orientation and one or more stowed orientations. In the deployed
orientation, a cover of the device extends over the furniture piece
and forms an interior space sized for one or more users. The cover
shelters the interior space from one or more aspects including
noise, light, and air drafts. The cover may also insulate the
interior space to control an interior temperature. In the stowed
orientations, the cover is configured to have an aesthetically
pleasing appearance.
[0046] The device 10 is configured to create a partially or fully
enclosed interior space above a furniture piece 100 when in the
deployed orientation. The device 10 generally includes a cover
sheet 20 (hereinafter cover) sized to extend over the furniture
piece 100. The cover 20 includes opposing first and second
longitudinal ends spaced apart along the length of the furniture
piece 100, and opposing first and second lateral sides spaced
across along the width. The device 10 also includes a hanger 40
configured to be attached to a vertical support 110 above the
furniture piece 100. The sheet 20 may be configured to be attached
to the hanger 40, or may include a connector 30 to attach to the
hanger 40. The device 10 also includes a tensioning element 90
attached to the cover 20 to reduce deflection between the cover
first and second ends when the cover is deployed, thus enlarging
the interior enclosed space.
[0047] FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of the device 10 in a
deployed orientation extending over a furniture piece 100. FIGS. 2A
and 2B illustrate this device 10 in different stowed orientations
each in proximity to the furniture piece 100. The stowed
orientations may include the cover 20 positioned along a vertical
support 110 in proximity to the furniture piece 100 as illustrated
in FIG. 2A, or positioned on the top of the furniture piece as
illustrated in FIG. 2B. In the various stowed orientations, the
cover 20 has an aesthetically pleasing appearance. The user is able
to stow the cover 20 in a variety of different orientations
depending upon their needs and/or the aesthetic appearance that
they desire.
[0048] The cover 20 is sized to extend over the furniture piece 100
in the deployed orientation. In this embodiment, the hanger 40 is
attached to a support 110 (which in this embodiment is a vertical
wall in proximity to the furniture piece 100) and configured to
position a portion of the cover 20 above the furniture piece 100 in
the deployed orientation. As illustrated in the deployed
orientation in FIG. 1, the cover 20 forms an interior space over
the furniture piece 100 that is sized for one or more users. In the
stowed orientation of FIG. 2, the cover 20 is not in use and is
positioned away from the furniture piece 100. The cover 20 is
arranged in an aesthetically pleasing manner such that it can be
left until re-deployed. Further, the device 10 is configured for a
straight-forward movement to change between the deployed and stowed
orientations.
[0049] FIG. 3 illustrates a side schematic view of a device 10 in
the deployed orientation extending over the furniture piece 100.
The cover 20 is sized to extend over the furniture piece 100 and
form the interior space 50 sized to receive the user who is
positioned on the furniture piece 100. The hanger 40 is attached to
the support 110 at a location vertically above the furniture piece
100 to position the cover 20 over the furniture piece 100 and form
the interior space 50. The tensioning element 90 is attached to the
cover 20 to apply a force to pull a central portion of the cover 20
away from the hanger 40. In this embodiment, the tensioning element
90 is an elongated rod that is attached to the cover 20. The
tensioning element 90 applies a force to a central portion of the
cover 20. This force pulls this section of the cover 20 tight to
enlarge the interior space 50. Lateral sections on opposing sides
of the central portion do not receive the force of the tensioning
element 90 and therefore hang downward on opposing sides of the
furniture piece 100. This embodiment also includes a portion of the
central section hanging downward from the hanger 40 to extend
behind the furniture piece 100 (i.e., at the head of the furniture
piece 100 with the tensioning element 90 at the foot of the
furniture piece 100).
[0050] FIG. 4 illustrates a side schematic view of a device 10 in a
stowed orientation. In this embodiment of the stowed orientation,
the cover 20 remains attached to the hanger 40. The stowed
orientation locates the cover 20 at an end of the furniture piece
100 in an aesthetically pleasing manner. Although a majority of the
cover 20 is positioned away from the piece 100, a portion may still
extend over the furniture piece 100 depending upon the position of
the hanger 40 and the size of the cover 20. In one or more
embodiments, an entirety of the cover 20 is positioned on the
furniture piece 100 in the stowed orientation.
[0051] The cover 20 is sized to extend over the entirety of a
portion of the furniture piece 100. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the
cover 20 includes a length L measured between longitudinal ends 21,
22, and a width W measured between opposing lateral sides 23. The
cover 20 may be sized relative to the furniture piece 100 such that
a perimeter edge extends below a top 101 of the furniture piece 100
in the deployed orientation. The amount that the cover 20 extends
below the top 101 may vary. In one embodiment, the cover 20 extends
to the floor underneath the furniture piece 100. Other embodiments
may include the cover 20 having a different size such that one or
more sections of the perimeter edge are positioned above the top
101.
[0052] The cover 20 includes a central section 85 that extends
along the length between the first and second ends 21, 22. The
central section 85 is the portion of the cover 20 that aligns with
the top 101 of the furniture piece 100 in the deployed orientation.
The central section 85 may have a variety of different widths
depending upon the size of the furniture piece 100. A first lateral
section 86 is positioned on a first lateral side of the central
section 85. This section 86 extends between the first lateral side
23 and the central section 85. A second lateral section 86 is
positioned on the opposing second lateral side of the central
section 85 and extends between the second lateral side 23 and the
central section 85. In the embodiment of FIG. 5, each lateral
section 86, 87 has the same width. Other embodiments may include
different widths.
[0053] In one or more embodiments, the different sections 85, 86,
87 are separated by dividers 70. The dividers 70 may include a
variety of different configurations, including but not limited to
seams, adhesives, mechanical fasteners, and combinations thereof.
The dividers 70 may provide for selectively removing one or more of
the sections from the cover 20. In one embodiment, one or more of
the dividers 70 are zippers that provide for selectively attaching
the one or more sections. In one or more embodiments, the different
sections 85, 86, 87 are not separated by dividers.
[0054] In one or more embodiments, sheet 20 includes a
substantially rectangular shape as illustrated in FIG. 5. FIG. 5
includes the sheet 20 in an open configuration in which it is
generally planar. Sheet 20 may also include different shapes in the
open configuration. In one or more embodiments, sheet 20 may be
shaped to provide for a fitted shaped when deployed. FIG. 6
includes an embodiment with the central section 85 including a
greater length than the lateral sections 86, 87. Various other
shapes and sizes may also be used to conform to the furniture piece
100 and to adjust a size and aspects of the interior space 50.
[0055] FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate an embodiment of the cover 20 in a
deployed orientation. In this embodiment, the central section 85 is
further divided into a top section 71, a foot section 72, and a
back section 73. Opposing lateral sections 86, 87 are also
positioned on opposite sides of the top section 71. In one or more
embodiments, each of the sections is substantially planar when the
cover is in the deployed orientation to extend completely around
the furniture piece 100 is surrounded. In one or more embodiments,
the dividers 70 provide for attaching the sections together at
various angular positions. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the first
lateral section 86 is at an angle .beta. relative to the top
section 71 and the second lateral section 87 is at an angle .alpha.
relative to the top section 71. In this embodiment, each of angles
.alpha. and .beta. are about 90.degree.. Other embodiments may
include different angles. This "fitted" configuration may provide
for the cover 20 to more specifically match the dimensions of the
furniture piece 100.
[0056] The cover 20 may be constructed as a single continuous
piece, or from two or more separate pieces that are attached
together. In one or more embodiments, each section of the cover 20
is constructed from a separate piece that is connected together at
the one or more dividers 70. The different pieces may be made from
the same or different materials. The dividers 70 may provide for
selectively removing one or more of the sections from the cover 20.
In one embodiment, one or more of the dividers 70 are zippers that
provide for selectively attaching the one or more sections.
[0057] FIGS. 7 and 8 include the cover 20 having five sides (i.e.,
top section 71, foot section 72, back section 73, and lateral
sections 86, 87). Other embodiments may include different numbers
of sides. FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment with four sides (i.e.,
the central section includes a top section 71 and foot section 72
without a head section). FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment with
three sides. Various other embodiments may include different
numbers of sections. Further, the different sections and sides may
be folded in various configurations in both the deployed and stowed
orientations.
[0058] In one embodiment of manufacturing the cover 20, the user
provides the dimensions of their furniture piece 100. The cover 20
is then constructed to be tailored to these dimensions.
[0059] In another embodiment, the cover 20 does not include
dividers 70. The cover 20 extends over the bed 100 in the deployed
position and generally folds about the furniture piece 100 to
conform to the dimensions. The central section 85 extends over the
top of the furniture piece 100, and the lateral sections 86, 87
extend over the opposing sides.
[0060] The cover 20 may be constructed from a variety of different
materials. Examples include but are not limited to cotton sheeting,
polyester fleece, plastic sheeting, elastic sheeting (e.g., Spandex
material), flannel, gauze, vinyl, and leather. The cover 20 may be
a single ply, or may include two or more plies. The cover 20 may be
constructed from the same material throughout, or may include one
or more different sections with different constructions. The cover
20 may be opaque to prevent light from penetrating into the
interior space 50 when in the deployed orientation. The cover 20
may also be constructed to prevent or reduce exterior sounds from
being audible within the interior space 50 when in the deployed
orientation.
[0061] The tensioning element 90 is attached to the central section
85 of the cover 20 and causes a force to be applied to the central
section 85 to reduce deflection in the deployed orientation thus
enlarging the interior space 50. The force applied by the
tensioning element 90 is not exerted on the lateral sections 86,
87. Therefore, these sections 86, 87 hang downward from the central
section 85 via gravity to extend around the furniture piece
100.
[0062] The tensioning element 90 may include a single element (as
illustrated in FIG. 11), or may include multiple elements. In
embodiments with multiple elements, each element may be the same or
different. The tensioning element 90 may also allow the cover 20 to
be draped or folded on or near the furniture piece 100 when not in
use.
[0063] The tensioning element 90 may be connected to the cover 20
at a variety of locations along the central section 85, including
the first end 21, second end 22, and intermediate locations. The
tensioning element 90 may comprise various configurations,
including but not limited to a weight, such as a weighted rod or
heavy fabric strip, soft or foldable elements that stiffen when the
cover 20 is in use (e.g., shape-memory polymers, current-induced
stiffeners such as electrorheological materials), elastic or
nonelastic straps, fabric sections, elastic bands, clips, hooks,
and grommets. In one or more embodiments, the tensioning element 90
is attached to the cover 20. Other embodiments may include the
cover 20 having a receptacle 92 sized to receive the tensioning
element 90. In one embodiment as schematically illustrated in FIG.
11, the cover 20 includes a sleeve 92 sized to receive a weight
(FIG. 11 includes an elongated rod).
[0064] In one or more embodiments, the tensioning element 90 is
attached at or near the first end 21 of the central section 85 of
the cover 20. The tensioning element 90 acts to pull the central
section 85 away from the hanger 40 in the deployed orientation.
This prevents the cover 20 from sagging over the furniture piece
100 and thereby increases the volume of the interior space 50. FIG.
11 illustrates one embodiment with the tensioning element 90
attached at the first end 21. In this embodiment, the tensioning
element 90 is a rod that fits within a sleeve 92 in the cover 20.
The rod extends across the width W of the central section 85.
[0065] The tensioning element 90 may also include one or more
elastic members that can be stretched in the deployed orientation
to apply a force to the cover 20. FIG. 12 illustrates tensioning
straps 91 positioned at the end 21 of the central section 85 of the
cover 20. The straps 91 are configured to attach to the furniture
piece 100. In one embodiment, the straps 91 include fasteners or
hook-and-loop connectors that engage with corresponding devices on
the furniture piece 100. Another embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13
includes tensioning straps 91 at the opposing end (i.e., second end
22) of the cover 20. The straps 91 are configured to engage with
the hanger 40. In the various embodiments, the end of the cover 20
opposite from the straps 91 is configured to be held in position.
This may include the end being attached to the hanger 40 (FIG. 12)
or secured to the furniture piece 100 (FIG. 13). The cover 20 may
be secured to the furniture piece 100 through various manners,
including by being positioned under the furniture piece 100, and by
fasteners on the cover 20 that connect to the furniture piece
100.
[0066] In one or more embodiments as illustrated in FIG. 14, the
tensioning element 90 extends the length L of the cover 20. A first
section of the element 90 may extend outward from the first end 21
of the cover 20 and a second section may extend outward from the
second end 22. Each of the sections is configured to be secured to
the furniture piece 100, hanger 40, vertical support 110, or other
structure. In one or more embodiments, one or more elastic straps
91 extend the length of the cover 20.
[0067] In one or more embodiments, the cover 20 is constructed of a
flexible material. In one specific embodiment, the cover 20 is
constructed from Spandex. This provides for the cover 20 itself to
be the tensioning element 90 such that it can be pulled tight in
the deployed orientation. The cover 20 may be further configured to
be secured on the opposing ends 21, 22 to the furniture piece 100,
hanger 40, vertical support 110, or other structure.
[0068] The cover 20 may also include one or more vents 25 as
illustrated in FIG. 3 for air to flow into and out of the interior
space 50. The one or more vents 25 may have various sizes, and may
be positioned at various locations about the cover 20. The vents 25
may further include closure devices 26, such as zippers, buttons,
hooks, magnets, etc. to open and close the vents 25, and to adjust
the size as necessary.
[0069] As illustrated in FIG. 7, the cover 20 may also include one
or more slots 51 that extend inward from the perimeter edge to
allow for users to move into and out of the interior space 50 when
the device 10 is in the deployed orientation. This provides for
user movement into and out of the interior space 50 without having
to change the device 10 from the deployed to the stowed
orientation. The slots 51 may be configured to be closed when the
user is in the interior space 50. This may include forming the
slots 51 such that opposing sides overlap. The slots 51 may also
include one or more closure devices (e.g., zipper, buttons,
magnets, hooks). In one or more embodiments, a separate flap is
attached to the cover 20 in proximity to the slot 51. The flap is
sized and configured to be positioned over the slot 50 to close the
slot 50. The flap may also be moved away from the slot 50 as
necessary.
[0070] The device 10 also includes a hanger 40 configured to
position at least a portion of the cover 20 vertically above the
furniture piece 100. The hanger 40 may also be configured to
receive a second portion of the cover 20 in the stowed orientation
to position the cover 20 relative to the furniture piece 100. The
hanger 40 may be permanently or removably attached to the cover
20.
[0071] In one embodiment, the hanger 40 includes one or more
brackets 41 and an elongated member 42. In one embodiment, the
hanger 40 includes two brackets 41 that are spaced apart across the
width W of the cover 20 with each being configured to receive the
elongated member 42. Other embodiments may include three or more
brackets 41. In the multi-bracket embodiments, each of the brackets
41 may include the same or different shapes and/or sizes. In
another embodiment, the hanger 40 includes a single bracket 41.
[0072] FIG. 15 illustrates a bracket 41 that includes a first side
43 configured to be attached to the support 110. The first side 43
may include at least a portion that is substantially flat to mount
against the support 110. Bracket 41 also includes one or more
openings (not illustrated) to receive a fastener for attachment to
the support 110. A first receptacle 44 may be configured to hold
the elongated member 42 that is attached to the cover 20. Bracket
41 may also include a second receptacle 45 that may be configured
to receive a portion of the cover 20 at or near the first end 21 in
the stowed orientation. In one embodiment, this includes a portion
of the cover 20 itself such as the first end 21. In one embodiment,
the second receptacle 45 is configured to receive the tensioning
element 90, such as an elongated rod. In another embodiment, the
second receptacle 45 is configured to receive one or more elastic
straps 91. The receptacles 44, 45 may include various shapes and
sizes depending upon the different aspects of the cover 20. The
receptacles 44, 45 may include an enclosed perimeter, as
illustrated by the first receptacle 44 in FIG. 15, or may include
an open perimeter as illustrated by the second receptacle 45. In
one embodiment, the second receptacle 45 is open to facilitate
receiving a portion of the cover 20 at or near the first end 21
when the user positions the device 10 in the stowed orientation.
FIG. 15 includes the first receptacle 44 positioned vertically
above the second receptacle 45. This configuration provides for an
elongated member 42 that forms part of the hanger 40 to be
positioned vertically above the tensioning element 90 in one of the
stowed orientations. Other embodiments may include the first
receptacle vertically below the second receptacle 45, or at the
same level.
[0073] Hanger 40 may also include a variety of shapes and sizes.
These may include but are not limited to one or more hooks, bands,
ties, rings, etc.
[0074] FIG. 15 includes the bracket 41 being a single, unitary
piece. Bracket 41 may also include multiple pieces as illustrated
in the embodiment of FIG. 16. Bracket 41 includes a first piece 41a
configured to hold a first section of the cover 20, and a second
piece 41b to hold a second section. In one embodiment, the first
piece 41a is configured to hold a rod 42 that forms a part of the
hanger 40, and the second piece 41b configured to hold the
tensioning element 90.
[0075] In one or more embodiments, hanger 40 includes an elongated
member 42 that is attached to the cover 20. The elongated member 42
may be a rod configured to fit into the first receptacle 44 of the
one or more brackets 41. Hanger 40 may also be configured to
receive other forms of attachment.
[0076] The device 10 may also include a connector 30 attached to
the cover 20 for connecting with the hanger 40. In one embodiment,
the connector 30 includes one or more sleeves each sized to receive
an elongated member 42 of the hanger 40 as illustrated in FIG. 16.
The connector 30 may also be one or more mechanical fasteners such
as but not limited to screws, nails, rivets, and clamps. Connector
30 may also include straps that extend from the cover 20. In one or
more embodiments, these straps are the tensioning element 90. In
other embodiments, the straps are separate from the tensioning
element 90.
[0077] In one or more embodiments, the cover 20 is attached to the
hanger 40 at or in proximity to the second end 22. In other
embodiments, and intermediate section of the cover 20 is attached
to the hanger 40. FIGS. 1, 2, 3, and 4 illustrate an embodiment
with an intermediate section of the central section 85 attached to
the hanger 40. The attachment to the hanger 40 divides the central
section 85 into the top section 71 and the back section 73. The top
section 71 extends from the connector 30 to the first end 21 (and
is further divided into a foot section 72 due to contact with the
furniture piece 100). The back section 73 extends from the
connector 30 to the second end 22. In one embodiment as best
illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, the back section 73 remains in the
same position in both the stowed and deployed orientations. In one
embodiment as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, the back section 73
hangs downward from the hanger 40 and is positioned at the head of
the furniture piece 100.
[0078] In use, the device 10 may initially be in the stowed
orientation when the user is not on the furniture piece 100. In one
embodiment as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 4, the stowed orientation
includes the cover 20 being positioned along a side of the
furniture piece 100. The stowed orientation may resemble a head
board of a furniture piece 100 or a curtain, both of which
accentuate the room and/or hide the purpose of the device 10 from a
viewer. The stowed orientation may also include the cover 20 being
removed from the hanger 40 as will be explained below.
[0079] The user may subsequently move the device 10 to the deployed
orientation. This may occur with the user being positioned on the
furniture piece 100 or prior to the user being on the furniture
piece 100. In one or more embodiments, this includes the user
removing the portion of the cover 20 (which may include the
tensioning element 90) from the hanger 40. The user then pulls the
first end 21 such that the central section 85 extends over the top
101 of the furniture piece 100. The tensioning element 90 pulls the
central section 85 in a direction away from the hanger 40. The user
may also position the lateral sections 86, 87 of the cover 20
beyond the lateral sides of the furniture piece 100.
[0080] The interior space 50 is formed between the top 101 of the
furniture piece 100 and the cover 20. This positioning minimizes or
eliminates exterior light from reaching the interior space 50. In
one embodiment, the cover 20 is positioned to contact against one
or more of the ends and lateral sides of the furniture piece 100 to
prevent any openings from forming between the cover 20 and bed
100.
[0081] When inside the interior space 50, the user may exit through
a slot 51 that extends into the cover 20 from the perimeter edge.
In one embodiment, the cover 20 includes a pair of slots 51 with
one for each lateral section 86, 87.
[0082] The device 10 may be changed from the deployed orientation
to the stowed orientation either while the user is positioned on
the furniture piece 100 in the interior space 50, or after the user
has exited the interior space 50. In one or more embodiments, the
user lifts the cover 20 and attaches a section at or near the end
21 to the hanger 40. In one or more embodiments, this includes the
user placing the tensioning element 90 in the one or more brackets
41. This may also include hooking a portion of the cover 20 onto
the hanger 40.
[0083] In one or more embodiments, the cover 20 remains attached to
the hanger 40 in the stowed orientation. FIGS. 2 and 4 illustrate
one embodiment. Another embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 17 in
which both the first and second ends 21, 22 of the cover 20 are
directly attached to the hanger 40. In a similar embodiment, the
second end 22 is attached to the hanger 40, and the first end 21 is
detached. This may include the cover 20 in a folded arrangement
below the hanger 40 at the head of the furniture piece 100.
[0084] In one or more embodiments, the cover 20 is detached from
the hanger 40 in the stowed orientation. The cover 20 may then be
folded or draped on or in close proximity to the furniture piece
100. This may include the cover 20 spread over the furniture piece,
or folded at the head or foot of the furniture piece 100.
[0085] The tensioning element 90 may also be configured to attach a
portion of the cover 20 to an overhead structure 112, such as the
ceiling 112. FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate an embodiment with the
furniture piece 100 positioned in a room with a side wall (i.e.,
support 110), a floor 111, and a ceiling 112. A tensioning element
90 is a connection structure attached to the ceiling 112 that
includes a base and a cord. The cover 20 includes a connector 29
configured to attach with the cord of the connection structure 90.
The connector 29 is positioned at or in proximity to the first end
21 of the cover 20. The connector 29 is attached to the structure
90 to position the first end of the cover upward away from the
furniture piece 100 such that the interior space 50 is open to the
exterior. In one or more embodiments, the overhead structure 112 is
a bedpost, bed frame, portable frame, window support, or other like
structure that is located below a ceiling of the room.
[0086] In one or more embodiments, the tensioning element 90 is
configured to apply a tensioning force to the cover 20 when
attached to the overhead structure 112. In one or more embodiments
as illustrated in FIG. 18, an attachment 99 connected to the
overhead structure 112 is positioned outward beyond a line L that
is perpendicular to the overhead structure 112. This places the
attachment 99 outward beyond an end of the cover 20 and beyond the
connector 29. The structure 90 that extends between the attachment
99 and connector 29 is than at an acute angle relative to the
overhead structure 112.
[0087] The various devices 10 disclosed in this application may be
used with a variety of different furniture pieces 100. One
embodiment includes the use of the device 10 with a bed 100. Device
10 may also be used with various other furniture pieces, including
but not limited to a sleep platform, futon, sleeping bag, chair,
sofa, table, bench, lounge chair, chaise lounge, and recliner.
[0088] The support 110 is positioned vertically above the top 101
of the furniture piece 100 and provides for positioning the cover
20 in the deployed orientation and some of the stowed orientations.
In one embodiment, the support 110 is a wall positioned behind the
piece 100. Support 110 may also include other structures, including
but not limited to a headboard on a bed 100, bedpost, bed frame,
portable frame, tree, and window.
[0089] In one embodiment, the cover 20 does not include a
tensioning element 90. The configuration of the cover 20 is
adequate to hold the position of the cover 20 in the deployed
orientation and form the interior space 50.
[0090] Spatially relative terms such as "under", "below", "lower",
"over", "upper", and the like, are used for ease of description to
explain the positioning of one element relative to a second
element. These terms are intended to encompass different
orientations of the device in addition to different orientations
than those depicted in the figures. Further, terms such as "first",
"second", and the like, are also used to describe various elements,
regions, sections, etc. and are also not intended to be limiting.
Like terms refer to like elements throughout the description.
[0091] As used herein, the terms "having", "containing",
"including", "comprising" and the like are open ended terms that
indicate the presence of stated elements or features, but do not
preclude additional elements or features. The articles "a", "an"
and "the" are intended to include the plural as well as the
singular, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
[0092] The present invention may be carried out in other specific
ways than those herein set forth without departing from the scope
and essential characteristics of the invention. The present
embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as
illustrative and not restrictive.
* * * * *