U.S. patent application number 15/276398 was filed with the patent office on 2017-03-23 for enhanced washable mattress topper.
The applicant listed for this patent is Future Foam, Inc.. Invention is credited to Joseph E. Blazar.
Application Number | 20170079444 15/276398 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 58276149 |
Filed Date | 2017-03-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170079444 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Blazar; Joseph E. |
March 23, 2017 |
ENHANCED WASHABLE MATTRESS TOPPER
Abstract
An enhanced washable mattress topper is disclosed, which allows
the entire topper (including the cushion element) to be washed
and/or dried. The topper typically comprises a cushion element,
which may include of a fiber-foam layer and a spacer fabric layer,
within a cover. The cover is typically permanently attached to the
cushion element, for example with stitching which may form a
plurality of compartments by segmenting the cushion element
Inventors: |
Blazar; Joseph E.;
(Owensboro, KY) |
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Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Future Foam, Inc. |
Council Bluffs |
IA |
US |
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Family ID: |
58276149 |
Appl. No.: |
15/276398 |
Filed: |
September 26, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14600989 |
Jan 20, 2015 |
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15276398 |
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13624525 |
Sep 21, 2012 |
8966688 |
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14600989 |
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62232994 |
Sep 25, 2015 |
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61537986 |
Sep 22, 2011 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47C 31/105 20130101;
A47C 27/22 20130101; A47C 27/002 20130101; A47C 27/14 20130101;
A47C 31/006 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47C 27/22 20060101
A47C027/22; A47C 31/10 20060101 A47C031/10; A47C 27/00 20060101
A47C027/00 |
Claims
1. A mattress topper, comprising: a cushion element comprising a
fiber-foam layer and a spacer fabric layer; and a cover enclosing
the cushion element and attached to the cushion element with
stitching that divides the cushion element into a plurality of
compartments; wherein the fiber-foam layer comprises fibers
distributed approximately evenly throughout foam; wherein the
fibers of the fiber-foam layer are the same material as the foam of
the fiber-foam layer; wherein the spacer fabric layer is laminated
to a surface of the fiber-foam layer; and wherein all of the
plurality of compartments have approximately the same thickness of
cushioning, resulting from being formed by division of the same
cushion element by the stitching.
2. A mattress topper, comprising: a cushion element comprising a
fiber-foam layer and a spacer fabric layer; and a cover enclosing
the cushion element and attached to the cushion element with
stitching that divides the cushion element into a plurality of
compartments.
3. The topper of claim 2 wherein the spacer fabric layer underlies
the fiber-foam layer; and wherein all of the plurality of
compartments have approximately the same thickness of cushioning,
resulting from being formed by division of the same cushion element
by stitching.
4. The topper of claim 2 wherein the stitching is applied through
both the fabric cover and the cushion element between top and
bottom surfaces of the cover.
5. The topper of claim 2 wherein the stitching comprises a
combination of tack-and-jump stitching and channel stitching,
wherein the channel stitching connects points tacked by the
tack-and-jump stitching, and wherein the channel stitching
comprises 4 to 8 stitches per inch.
6. The topper of claim 2 wherein a plurality of the compartments
are each sized and shaped identically, and are rectangular,
triangular, or helical in shape.
7. The topper of claim 2 wherein the fiber-foam layer comprises
fibers distributed approximately evenly throughout foam.
8. The topper of claim 2 wherein the fiber-foam layer comprises
polyurethane foam and polyurethane fibers.
9. The topper of claim 2 wherein the fiber-foam layer has a
thickness range of about 1-1.5 cm.
10. The topper of claim 2 wherein the spacer fabric layer is
permanently attached to a surface of the fiber-foam layer.
11. The topper of claim 2 wherein the spacer fabric layer comprises
a 3D warp knit fabric product.
12. The topper of claim 2 wherein the spacer fabric layer comprises
an upper surface of mesh fabric, a lower surface of mesh fabric,
and 3D spacer yarn layer between and connecting the upper and lower
mesh fabric surfaces.
13. The topper of claim 12 wherein the spacer fabric upper and
lower mesh fabric surfaces each comprise open mesh weave material;
and wherein the upper and lower mesh fabric surfaces of the spacer
fabric comprise an open mesh with openings approximately 0.5-1.0
cm. size.
14. The topper of claim 2 wherein the spacer fabric layer has a
thickness of approximately 1-1.5 cm.
15. The topper of claim 2 wherein the cover comprise fabric.
16. The topper of claim 2 wherein the cushion element further
comprises a second spacer fabric layer, and wherein the two spacer
fabric layers sandwich the fiber-foam layer.
17. The topper of claim 16 wherein the second spacer fabric layer
and the first spacer fabric layer are formed of the same
material.
18. The topper of claim 2 further comprising a non-slip layer.
19. The topper of claim 18 wherein the non-slip layer is located on
the side of the fiber-foam layer opposite the spacer fabric
layer.
20. The topper of claim 18 wherein the non-slip layer forms the
bottom surface of the cover.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority under 35 USC .sctn.119 to
related and co-pending provisional patent application Ser. No.
62/232,994 entitled "Enhanced Washable Mattress Topper" filed Sep.
25, 2015 (with the year anniversary falling on a Sunday, so that
this matter is timely filed to claim priority); and also claims
priority benefit under 35 USC .sctn.120 to co-pending U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/600,989 entitled "Washable Mattress Topper"
tiled Jan. 20, 2015, which claims benefit under 35 USC .sctn.120 to
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/624,525 (now U.S. Pat. No.
8,966,688) entitled "Washable Mattress Topper" filed Sep. 21, 2012,
which claims priority under 35 USC .sctn.119 to U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 61/537,986 filed on Sep. 22, 2011,
entitled "Washable Mattress Topper" (such that this present
application also claims priority to an effective filing date of
Sep. 22, 2011 through U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.
61/537,986); all of which are hereby incorporated by reference as
if reproduced in their entirety.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable.
REFERENCE TO A MICROFICHE APPENDIX
[0003] Not applicable.
BACKGROUND
[0004] A mattress topper is a cushioned item of removable bedding
that typically sits on the top surface of a mattress. Mattress
toppers may be used to promote increased comfort to a user while
sleeping and may also protect a mattress hygienically and
physically, such as from wear and tear imposed by use. Typically, a
removable outer cover (and only the removable outer cover, for
example not the actual cushioning element(s)) of a conventional
mattress topper may be washed. regularly to maintain clean bedding.
Applicant has developed a washable mattress topper, which may be
repeatedly washed and dried as a whole (e.g. in its entirety, for
example more than just the cover, including for example the
cushioning element) without significantly damaging the cushioning
element of the topper. These and other improvements are discussed
below in more detail.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure,
reference is now made to the following brief description, taken in
connection with the accompanying drawings and detailed description,
wherein like reference numerals represent like parts.
[0006] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary enhanced washable mattress
topper embodiment in perspective view with a cut-away view of the
cover (to show the cushion element within the cover), and
illustrates a quilting pattern with a border compartment and a
plurality of square or rectangular central compartments;
[0007] FIG. 2A illustrates a cross-section view of a portion of a
mattress topper embodiment with an uncompressed cushion
element;
[0008] FIG. 2B illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of a
mattress topper embodiment with a compressed cushion element and an
attachment (for example, via stitching) of the cover surfaces to
the cushion element (for example, with stitching passing through
the upper surface of the cover, the cushion element, and the lower
surface of the cover, with such stitching typically
compartmentalizing the cushion element);
[0009] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of another mattress
topper embodiment with a cut-away view of the cover (to show the
cushion element within the cover), and illustrates a quilting
pattern with a border compartment and a plurality of central
compartments formed by one or more helical patterns;
[0010] FIG. 4. illustrates a perspective view of another mattress
topper embodiment with a cut-away view of the cover (to show the
cushion element within the cover and illustrates a quilting pattern
formed by crisscrossed diagonal stitching lines (which might for
example form a plurality of polygon shaped compartments);
[0011] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of another mattress
topper embodiment with a en away view of the cover (to show the
cushion element within the cover), and illustrates a quilting
pattern with a border compartment and a plurality of central
triangular compartments;
[0012] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of another mattress
topper embodiment with a cut-away view of the cover (to show the
cushion element within the cover), and illustrates a quilting
pattern formed by a plurality of typically continuous stitching
lines spanning the width of the topper (for example, forming
rectangular compartments across the width of the topper);
[0013] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of another mattress
topper embodiment with a cut-away view of the cover (to show the
cushion element within the cover), and illustrates a quilting
pattern formed by a plurality of typically continuous stitching
lines spanning the length of the topper (for example, forming
rectangular compartments across the length of the topper);
[0014] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of another mattress
topper embodiment with a cut-away view of the cover (to show the
cushion element within the cover), and illustrates a quilting
pattern with a border compartment;
[0015] FIG. 9 illustrates a cut-away perspective view of an
exemplary enhanced washable mattress topper embodiment (of the sort
shown in FIGS. 1-8 for example), showing the internal components
(such as the cushion element comprising fiber-foam and spacer
fabric) of the topper;
[0016] FIG. 10 illustrates a cut-away perspective view of another
mattress topper embodiment (of the sort shown in FIGS. 1-8 for
example), showing the internal components (such as the cushion
element comprising fiber-foam and spacer fabric and non-slip
material) of the topper;
[0017] FIG. 11 illustrates a cut-away perspective view of another
exemplary enhanced washable mattress topper embodiment (of the sort
shown in FIGS. 1-8 for example), showing the internal components
(such as the cushion element comprising a fiber-foam layer and two
spacer fabric layers sandwiching the fiber-foam) of the topper;
and
[0018] FIG. 12 illustrates in exploded view the components of the
exemplary topper embodiment of FIG. 9.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] It should be understood at the outset that although
illustrative implementations of one or more embodiments are
illustrated below, the disclosed systems and methods may be
implemented using any number of techniques, whether currently known
or not yet in existence. The disclosure should in no way be limited
to the illustrative implementations, drawings, and techniques
illustrated below, but may be modified within the scope of the
appended claims along with their full scope of equivalents.
[0020] The following brief definition of terms shall apply
throughout the application:
[0021] The term "comprising" means including but not limited to,
and should be interpreted in the manner it is typically used in the
patent context;
[0022] Directions, such as up (e.g. upward) and/or down (e.g.
downward), typically are intended to be based on the mattress (or
sleep system or foundation) in its normal sleeping position as
understood by persons of skill; for example, the upper surface of
the mattress might face towards the ceiling and/or serve as the
sleep surface upon which the user might lie, while the bottom
surface of the mattress might face towards the floor or ground
and/or be placed atop a foundation element;
[0023] The phrases "in one embodiment," "according to one
embodiment," and the like generally mean that the particular
feature, structure, or characteristic following the phrase may be
included in at least one embodiment of the present invention, and
may be included in more than one embodiment of the present
invention (importantly, such phrases do not necessarily refer to
the same embodiment);
[0024] If the specification describes something as "exemplary" or
an "example," it should be understood that refers to a
non-exclusive example;
[0025] The terms "about" or approximately" or the like, when used
with a number, may mean that specific number, or alternatively, a
range in proximity to the specific number, as understood by persons
of skill in the art field (for example, +/-10%); and
[0026] If the specification states a component or feature "may,"
"can," "could," "should," "would," "preferably," "possibly,"
"typically," "optionally," "for example," "often," or "might" (or
other such language) be included or have a characteristic, that
particular component or feature is not required to be included or
to have the characteristic. Such component or feature may be
optionally included in some embodiments, or it may be excluded.
[0027] Embodiments relate generally to mattress toppers (or other
cushioned support devices) which may be made washable as a whole
(for example, allowing multiple washing and drying cycles, for
example in typical washer and drier units, without significant
degradation to the cushioning element(s) of the topper). Disclosed
embodiments provide an improvement/enhancement to an earlier
washable mattress topper developed by the Applicant, namely the
washable topper set forth in U.S. Pat. No. 8,966,688 (hereby fully
incorporated by reference to the extent it does not directly
contradict the immediate disclosure herein), which used
compartmentalization of the cushion element (which typically
comprised an open cell foam material) of the topper (or device).
Typically, such compartmentalization was accomplished by quilting
techniques, with stitching passing through the ticking forming the
upper and lower surface of the outer cover of the topper, as well
as the open cell foam cushion element. While embodiments of the
present improvement/enhancement often may include
compartmentalization similar to that described in U.S. Pat. No.
8,966,688, they also typically comprise different
cushioning/support materials/elements (instead of (or in some
embodiments, in addition to) the open cell foam described in the
earlier patent, for example). Consequently, the disclosed
embodiments herein may provide even further improvement in
washability and/or may be lighter in weight and/or thickness (which
may improve machine washability) while still providing effective
cushioning/support (for example comparable to the earlier washable
topper discussed above). These enhanced topper embodiments will be
described in more detail below.
[0028] While the embodiments described below may discuss mattress
toppers, it should be understood that use of the term "mattress
topper" or "topper" herein is merely exemplary and may not be
limiting, and that embodiments may also relate to other cushioned
support devices (such as pillows, mattresses (or elements within a
mattress), for example). Furthermore, while the enhanced washable
mattress topper examples herein may generally be discussed in the
sleeping context or for use on the top surface of a mattress,
enhanced washable cushioned support devices (with similar features)
may have other uses (for example, seating cushions or lumbar
support cushions), all of which are within the scope of this
disclosure.
[0029] Mattress toppers generally are designed for the purpose of
increased comfort while sleeping and to protect mattresses
hygienically and/or from wear and tear. It is typically not common
practice to wash an entire conventional topper because it may cause
deterioration (and typically significant deterioration of the
cushioning element of the topper. However, a washable mattress
topper (for example, allowing the entire topper to be washed,
including the cushioning element(s) as a whole and/or all together
at one time) may be desired to allow for more hygienically clean
bedding. So, it may be desirable that a mattress topper be machine
or hand washable for hygienic reasons, including the elimination of
dirt, allergens and other irritants (e.g. dust mites, bed bugs,
mold and dead skin).
[0030] The cushioning element(s) (e.g. the cushioning/support
material located between the cover/ticking) of disclosed
embodiments may comprise a fiber-foam layer and/or a spacer fabric
layer (and typically would comprise both fiber-foam and spacer
fabric, for example, instead of typical open and/or closed cell
foam). For example, spacer fabric might be laminated to at least
one surface of the fiber-foam layer, to form a cushioning element
for the enhanced washable mattress topper (and in some embodiments,
spacer fabric might be laminated to both the upper and lower
surface of the fiber-foam layer). So for example, an exemplary
enhanced washable mattress topper might comprise a fiber-foam
layer, a spacer fabric layer, and a ticking or cover which
encompasses both the fiber-foam layer and the spacer fabric layer
to form the exterior of the topper (for example, with an
upper/sleep support surface and a bottom surface configured to lay
atop the mattress).
[0031] Some disclosed embodiments may comprise the attachment of a
fabric cover (e.g. ticking) to the cushion element of a mattress
topper in a manner that creates a plurality of compartments within
the cushion element, wherein the fabric cover permanently encloses
the cushion element. In this disclosure, "permanently enclose"
means that it may be possible to remove the fabric cover by
laboriously cutting or otherwise removing the attachment between
the cover and the cushion element (which may he stitches, for
example), but this removal may effectively destroy or ruin the
mattress topper. At the least, it would be very inconvenient to
remove the fabric cover, and removal would defeat at least one of
the benefits of the invention, including the ability to wash the
topper without having to remove and later reinsert the cushion
element. In the language of this disclosure, "permanently" means
that the fabric cover remains in enclosure of the cushion element
for the duration of the functional life of the disclosed mattress
toppers. So for example, the compartments might be formed by
quilting/stitching the cover to the one or more cushioning
elements, for example with stitching passing through the upper
cover/ticking layer/surface, the one or more cushioning elements,
and the bottom/lower cover/ticking layer/surface. While the
creation of a plurality of compartments within the cushion element
(e.g. the fiber-foam layer and the spacer fabric layer) by
attachment of the cover is typically used in such disclosed
embodiments (to improve washability), some embodiments may not
require such compartmentalization (for example, relying on the
use/selection of fiber-foam and spacer fabric for the cushion
element to provide the desired washability).
[0032] So, disclosed embodiments typically would comprise a spacer
fabric layer and a fiber-foam layer (which jointly form the
cushioning element of the topper), along with a cover/ticking which
encompasses the cushioning element (i.e. the spacer fabric and
fiber-foam). Typically, the spacer fabric would be laminated to the
fiber-foam layer, to jointly form the cushioning element of the
topper (although in other embodiments, the spacer fabric and the
fiber foam layer might only be joined by the stitching of the
quilting pattern for attachment of the cover). And typically, the
cover/ticking would be quilted/stitched onto the cushioning element
(e.g. spacer fabric and fiber-foam layer), permanently joining the
cover to the cushioning layer. In most disclosed embodiments, the
quilting approach would have stitching (which passes through both
the upper and lower layers/surfaces of the cover and the fiber-foam
layer and the spacer fabric) which divides or segments the
cushioning element into a plurality of compartments.
[0033] Some embodiments might comprise two spacer fabric layers,
with an upper spacer fabric laminated atop (and in direct contact
with) the fiber-foam layer, and a lower spacer fabric layer
laminated beneath (and in direct contact with) the fiber-foam layer
(such that the cushioning element might be formed of the fiber-foam
layer and two spacer fabric layers). Most often, if there are two
spacer fabric layers, these spacer fabric layers would be identical
(in material, thickness, etc.), although in other embodiments the
upper spacer fabric layer and the lower spacer fabric layer could
be different (for example, formed of different material, have
different dimensions, and/or have different properties). Some
embodiments might also optionally comprise a non-slip (for example
PVC) layer (which could be the lower cover surface/layer in some
embodiments or could be a separate layer located beneath the
cushioning element and between the cushioning element and the lower
cover layer in other embodiments).
[0034] Typically, the fiber-foam layer would comprise fibers
distributed approximately evenly throughout the foam material, and
typically, the ratio of fibers to foam would be approximately a
level providing effective support/comfort characteristics. In some
embodiments, the fiber-foam material might comprise polyurethane
(for example, open cell in some embodiments) foam and polyurethane
fibers.
[0035] Typically, the spacer fabric layer(s) would be formed of
spacer fabric, for example a 3D warp knit fabric product, which
might be knitted in a lofted manner (for example, with a middle
layer of monofilament yarn sandwiched between and connecting two
outer surface layers of fabric). Typically, the outer layers of
fabric forming the spacer fabric would be an open mesh fabric
material, such that the spacer fabric might comprise an upper
surface of mesh fabric, a lower surface of mesh fabric, and a 3D
spacer microfilament yarn layer knit between and connecting the
upper and lower mesh fabric surfaces. Typically, the ratio of
spacer fabric layer thickness to fiber-foam layer thickness in the
cushion element might be approximately 1:1 or 1:1.5 (for example,
ith the spacer fabric layer perhaps having an uncompressed
thickness of about 1-1.5 cm (for example approximately 1 cm) while
the fiber-foam layer might have a thickness of about 1-1.5 cm, 1-2
cm, or 1.5-2 cm (for example, approximately 1.5 cm)). And
typically, the airflow rate of the spacer fabric layer might be
sufficient to allow for effective drying.
[0036] Typically, the ticking/cover would be fabric and typically
would be permanently attached to the cushion element, for example
by stitching (which might form a quilting pattern, for example,
forming a plurality of compartments segmenting the cushion
element). So for example, the ticking/cover might comprise an upper
surface layer and a lower surface layer, with the cushion element
located between (and typically in contact with) the upper surface
layer and the lower surface layer of the cover, and stitching (for
example, forming a quilting pattern resulting in a plurality of
compartments) might pass through the upper surface layer of the
cover, through the cushion element (for example through both the
fiber-foam layer and the one or more spacer fabric layers), and
through the lower surface layer of the cover (e.g. joining both the
upper and lower surface of the cover to the cushion element, as
well as further joining (and often compressing and locking in (e.g.
securely fixing) the compression) the spacer fabric to the
fiber-foam). So for example, the thickness of the cushion element
at the stitching might typically be the thickness at which the
cushion element is compressed (for example, to about its maximum
compression).
[0037] In some embodiments, more than one type of stitching might
be used to form the quilting (e.g. permanently attach the cover to
the cushion element). So for example, a combination of
tack-and-jump stitching and channel stitching might be used, for
example with the channel stitching connecting points tacked by the
tack-and-jump stitching. Furthermore, the channel stitching might
comprise 4-8 stitches per inch (for example, perhaps 6 stitches per
inch). The stitching might form a plurality of compartments
dividing the cushion element, such that all of the plurality of
compartments might have approximately the same thickness of
cushioning (resulting from being formed by division of the same
unified cushion element by stitching). And often, several (and
sometimes all) of the plurality of compartments might be equally
shaped and sized (e.g. identical). In sonic embodiments, several of
the compartments might be rectangular, triangular, or helical in
shape. In some embodiments, there may be a border compartment about
the perimeter of the topper, with a plurality of central
compartments located within the border compartment. In such
instances, the central compartments typically would be equally
sized and/or shaped.
[0038] The illustrative examples shown in the figures and described
below may provide more detailed examples of the disclosed enhanced
washable mattress topper embodiments.
[0039] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an enhanced
washable mattress topper. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, a
mattress topper 100 may consist of a cushion element 102 with a
fabric cover 104 enclosing and attached to the cushion element 102
in a manner that creates multiple central compartments 106 and a
border compartment 108. In an embodiment, the cushion element 102
may comprise a fiber-foam layer and at least one spacer fabric
layer (as will be discussed in more detail below). The fabric cover
104 may comprise natural materials (such as cotton, linen, wool,
silk, or bamboo, for example), synthetic materials (such as
polyester, rayon, Dacron, nylon, acrylic, Lycra, or olefin fibre,
for example), or a combination (or blend) thereof. Any combination
and/or construction of natural materials and/or synthetic materials
may be suitable for the fabric cover 104, and the cover 104 may be
configured so as to resist significant shrinking and/or stretching
of the fabric when washed and/or dried. This may be accomplished by
preshrinking the fabric cover material, using a specific type of
weave for the material, and/or using specific material(s) for the
fabric cover that are known to be stable. Additionally, the cover
104 typically would be sufficiently porous so that water can
effectively drain through the cover and/or so that airflow may be
sufficient to improve drying. Typically, the fabric cover 104 may
comprise a woven material.
[0040] In an embodiment, the fabric cover 104 may be attached to
the cushion element 102 by stitching with thread 110 and 112
through both the fabric cover 104 (for example, both the top
surface 1.20 and the bottom surface 130 of the cover) and the
cushion element 102. In an embodiment, stitching continuous lines
with thread may achieve compartmentalization of the mattress topper
100. "Continuous" may refer to stitching without breaking/cutting
the thread at any point in a particular line/distance. Although, in
an embodiment, the thread may be visible on one side of the fabric
cover 108 in a dashed fashion (such that the stitching alternates
between two surfaces 120 and 130 of the fabric cover 104), it may
be considered a continuous stitch if the thread used to make the
stitch is not broken and/or cut along a specific line. In an
embodiment, a stitching pattern on a topper 100 (such as may be
formed by stitching 110 and 112) may be formed by one or more
continuous lines of stitching. For example, in FIG. 1 one
continuous line of stitching 112 might form a border compartment
108, while a plurality of horizontal lines of continuous stitching
and a plurality of vertical lines of continuous stitching might
form a plurality of central compartments. The stitching 110 and 112
may be applied through both the fabric cover 104 and the cushion
element 102 (i.e. between the top 120 and bottom 130 surfaces of
the fabric cover 104) so that, in an embodiment, the distance
between the top 120 and bottom 130 of the mattress topper 100 at
the stitching 110 and 112 may be between about 1/8 inch and about
3/4 inch (or in other embodiments perhaps between 1/16 inch and 1/2
inch (while the uncompressed thickness of the cushion
element/mattress topper away from the stitching might typically be
about 1-2.5 inches or 1-1.5 inches). Generally, the thickness of
the cushion element 102 at the stitching 110 and 112 may be a
thickness at which the cushion element 102 is compressed, wherein
the cushion element 102 may be approximately fully compressed or
partially compressed, as can be seen in FIGS. 2A-2B. Additionally,
the compression at the stitching 110 and 112 may be accomplished by
applying a specific force to the cushion element 102.
[0041] FIG. 2A shows a cushion element 202 in an uncompressed
state. In an embodiment, the top surface 220 and the bottom surface
230 of the fabric cover 204 may each be adjacent to the cushion
element 202 (for example, on opposite sides). FIG. 2B shows the
cushion element 202 at a point of attachment 211 with the fabric
cover 204. The cushion element 202 may be in a compressed state at
the attachment point 211, and, as can be seen in FIG. 2B, the
attachment 211 may attach the top 220 and bottom 230 surfaces of
the fabric cover 204 to the cushion element 202 by threading all
the way through the cushion element 202, thereby creating two
compartments 250 and 251 of the cushion element 202 on either side
of the attachment point 211. As can be seen from FIG. 2B, the
cushion element 202 may have a compressed thickness at the
attachment point 211, and it may be substantially less than the
uncompressed thickness of the cushion element 202.
[0042] While one embodiment of compartmentalization of the mattress
topper may be achieved by stitching continuous lines with thread
(for example, forming a quilting pattern), other methods are
equally contemplated, such as stitching without continuous lines,
fusing, use of adhesive, use of rivets, use of buttons or some
combination thereof. Additionally, an embodiment of the mattress
topper shown in FIG. 1 may comprise a connection 125 of the top 120
and bottom 130 surfaces of the fabric cover 104 (for example, to
form a sealed envelope capable of completely enveloping the cushion
element on all sides), wherein the connection may comprise
stitching and may be located at the edges of the topper 100. The
top and bottom surfaces may be connected on at least one edge, and
may also comprise two separate pieces connected at all four edges.
So for example, typically the cover might be formed with three
closed sides (for example a top, bottom, and three sides, which
might be pre-sewn from multiple pieces of fabric, for example) and
one open side, and the open side would then be sealed or closed
(for example, by stitching connection 125) only after insertion of
the cushion element.
[0043] In an embodiment, the stitching 110 and 112, operable to
attach the cushion element and fabric cover, may be in a pattern
such that the number of stitches per inch may be between about 4
and about 8, and in some embodiments, may comprise between
approximately 5 to 7 stitches per inch. In a typical embodiment,
the stitching pattern 110 and 112 may comprise approximately 6
stitches per inch. In an embodiment, the thread used for the
stitching may comprise Nylon and may have a thread weight of at
least approximately Tex 6 (wherein Tex is the mass in grams of 1000
meters of thread). In other embodiments, the thread may comprise
other materials such as cotton, polyester, a cotton-polyester
blend, rayon, silk, or wool, which may be chosen based on the
desired qualities of the thread such as strength, thickness,
appearance, stability during washing and/or drying, and/or cost. In
an embodiment, the stitching 110 and 112 may be completed using one
or more quilting/stitching methods, which may include channel
stitching and/or tack-and-jump. In an embodiment, the fabric cover
104 and cushion element 102 may first be tacked together (i.e.
tacked with thread from one surface of the fabric cover to the
other surface through the cushion element) in a plurality of points
on the topper 100 (which may be located within the stitching
pattern 110 and 112) using a tack-and-jump method. Then, channel
stitching may be used to form the final pattern of stitching 110
and 112 on the topper 100 that may ultimately create the plurality
of compartments 106 and 108 in the topper 100. In an embodiment,
the channel stitching may connect the plurality of points that may
be tacked by the tack-and-jump method. The embodiment of attaching
the fabric cover 104 and cushion element 102 combining the use of
tack-and-jump and channel stitching may allow for increased
stability of the cushion element 102 in the stitching pattern. In
an embodiment, the tack-and-jump followed by channel stitching may
firmly fix the cushion element 102 within the pattern of
compartmentalization, such that during washing and/or drying, the
cushion element 102 and/or the fabric cover 104 may not develop
puckers or deformities at or around the stitching 110 and 112.
[0044] The size and/or shape of the compartments may affect the
comfort of the topper 100 for a user as well as manufacturing costs
associated with the topper 100. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1,
the central compartments 106 separated by stitching 110 may
comprise a rectangular shape. Additionally, the rectangular central
compartments 106 may be approximately uniform wherein the ratio of
the length to the width of the central compartments 106 may be
between about 0.4 and 2.5. In another embodiment, the ratio of the
length to the width of the central compartments 106 may be between
about 0.5 and 2.0, such that the longer side is no more than twice
the length of the shorter side. In an embodiment wherein the longer
side is no more than twice the length of the shorter side,
elongation of an area of the cushion element (which may cause
deformation or alteration of the rigidness and/or comfort
properties of the cushion element when washed) may be avoided. In
yet another embodiment, the ratio of the length to the width of the
central compartments 106 may be between about 0.8 and 1.25, such
that the central compartments 106 have an approximately square
shape. In an embodiment, the length and width of the compartments
may be between about 5 inches and about 15 inches. In a typical
embodiment, the central compartments 106 may be about 8 inches in
length and about 8 inches in width. Uniformity provided by
regularly shaped compartments 106 (such as a square or triangle,
for example) may provide stability to the cushion element 102 (to
prevent deterioration for example) during washing and/or drying to
allow for a longer lifespan of the topper 100. Thus, typically the
central compartments may all be sized and shaped
uniformly/identically. In an embodiment, the border compartment 108
may be operable to provide stability to the topper 100, especially
at the outer edges. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the border
compartment 108 may completely surround the central compartments
106, wherein the border compartment may be separated from the
central compartments by stitching 112. The border compartment 108
may typically be continuous around the outside edge of the topper
100, as shown in FIG. 1, and may, in an embodiment, have a width of
between about 3 inches and about 6 inches. In an embodiment, the
border compartment 108 may comprise a width between about 2 inches
and about 4 inches, while in another embodiment, the border
compartment may comprise a width of less than 3 inches. In a
typical embodiment, the width of the border compartment may be
approximately 3 inches.
[0045] In an embodiment, a topper 100 without a border compartment
108 may develop irregularity in deformation or decomposition at the
edges of the topper caused by washing and/or drying of the topper.
Typically, a topper without a border compartment may have a
lifespan of about 25 to 30 washes, whereas a topper with a border
compartment may have a lifespan of at least 40 washes or more
(which may be the equivalent of 20 years with 2 washings a year).
The border compartment 108 may create strength for the cushion
element 102, at the outer edges, especially at the corners, and
serve to reinforce them during washing and/or drying. Additionally,
the border compartment 108 may reinforce the stability of the
topper 100 during regular use of the topper 100, such as when a
user moves onto or off of the topper 100 or to a different position
on the topper 100.
[0046] While many embodiments may comprise both a border
compartment and a plurality of central compartments, other
embodiments may comprise either just a border compartment alone
(e.g. surrounding just one large central compartment) or just a
plurality of central compartments alone (e.g. a plurality of
compartments spanning the enter portion of the topper without an
enclosing border compartment located about the edges of the topper
upper surface). Persons of skill will understand the various
combinations of compartments, several of which will be illustrated
in more detail below with respect to specific figures. It may even
be possible in some embodiments to have a washable topper without
such compartments (for example, due to the nature of the cushion
element with fiber-foam and spacer fabric), although typically even
disclosed toppers with fiber-foam and spacer fabric would comprise
at least one compartment (formed by quilting, for example), as
discussed above.
[0047] In an embodiment, the cushion element 102 may comprise an
uncompressed thickness up to approximately 2.5 inches. An
embodiment of the cushion element 102 may have an uncompressed
thickness of at least 1 inch, ranging from 1-1.5 inches, and/or may
typically be about 1.5 inches thick. Different factors that may be
considered to determine an optimal thickness of a topper 100 may
include user comfort, ability to be washed and/or dried, and/or
ability to be sewn through with stitching to create compartments.
In an embodiment, the thickness of the cushion element 102 may be
such that it allows for a user to handle (i.e. move, wash, and/or
dry) the topper 100 with relative ease while still retaining
comfort properties of the topper 100. A desired thickness may also
depend on the density of the topper 100, wherein a typical
embodiment of the cushion element 102 may comprise a density of
about 3 lb. per board foot (wherein 1 lb. per board foot may be the
equivalent of 12 lb. per cubic foot), or in some embodiment a
density of less than 3 lb. per board foot. Because a typical
mattress topper 100 may spend the majority of its lifespan on the
top surface of a mattress, the topper 100 may not be made to be
easily rolled or folded for storage; therefore the thickness of the
topper may not need to be designed with folding or rolling
characteristics.
[0048] FIGS. 3-8 show alternative embodiments of quilting patterns
for attachment (of the cover to the cushion element) to create
compartmentalization. While FIGS. 3-8 have been provided for
exemplary purposes, other (quilting) patterns of
compartmentalization may be included in the scope of this
disclosure.
[0049] Shown in FIG. 3, an embodiment of a mattress topper 300 is
briefly described. The mattress topper 300 comprises a cushion
element 302, a fabric cover 304, and a border compartment 308
substantially as described above with reference to the cushion
element 102, fabric cover 104, and border compartment 108 of FIG.
1. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the mattress topper 300 may
comprise a different pattern of stitching 310 and 312 that may
provide a plurality of central compartments with various shapes and
sizes 320a, 320b and 320c. In an embodiment, the stitching 312 may
form the border compartment 308 and the stitching 310 may form the
various shapes of central compartments 320a, 320b and 320c. In the
embodiment of FIG. 3, the stitching 310 may be in a helical pattern
in a horizontal and/or vertical (or other, such as diagonal)
direction across the topper 300. The term "helical" may refer to
continuously stitched lines that may be interwoven or interlocking,
and may approximately comprise the shape of two sine waves (one
inverse of the other) which may cross at multiple locations along
their length. An exemplary helical pattern shown in FIG. 3 may
comprise at least two continuous stitches 330 and 335 which may
cross each other multiple times (in an interwoven fashion) and may
form three differently shaped central compartments 320a, 320b and
320c, wherein compartment 320a may be formed between the two
helical stitches 330 and 335, compartment 320b may be formed
between a first side of the helical stitches 330 and 335 and the
stitches 312 forming the border compartment 308, and compartment
320c may be formed between a second side of the helical stitches
330 and 335 and a first side of another set of helical stitches. In
an embodiment, the topper 300 may comprise any number of helical
patterned stitches 310, which may follow any direction with respect
to the topper 300, so long as the thickness of the cushion element
302 (for comfort and support) is not compromised. Additionally,
design may be considered for the stitching pattern, and the
exemplary pattern in a helical shape may be considered
aesthetically pleasing to a user.
[0050] Shown in FIG. 4, another embodiment of a mattress topper 400
is briefly described. The mattress topper 400 may comprise a
cushion element 402 and a fabric cover 404 substantially as
described above with reference to the cushion element 102 and
fabric cover 104 of FIG. 1. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, mattress
topper 400 may comprise a different pattern of stitching 410 which
provides a plurality of polygon shaped compartments 406. In the
embodiment of FIG. 4, the stitching 410 may continue to the edge of
the mattress topper 400 (e.g. there may be no border compartment,
although in other embodiments such quilting pattern could be used
within a border compartment), and the compartments 406 may comprise
a uniform, rectangular shape. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the
stitches 410 may follow a diagonal direction with respect to the
mattress topper 400 (e.g. with crisscrossing diagonal stitching
lines forming the polygon shaped compartments 406), but in other
embodiments, the one or more of the stitching lines might be
vertical and/or horizontal. Additionally, the embodiment of FIG. 4
may show rectangular shaped central compartments 406, but in other
embodiments, the compartments may have more or less than four sides
and may comprise right angles, obtuse angles, and/or acute
angles.
[0051] Shown in FIG. 5, another embodiment of a mattress topper 500
is briefly described. The mattress topper 500 may comprise a
cushion element 502, a fabric cover 504 and a border compartment
508 substantially as described above with reference to the cushion
element 102, fabric cover 104, and border compartment 108 of FIG.
1. In the embodiment of FIG. 5, the mattress topper 500 may
comprise a pattern of stitching 510, 511 and 512 which may provide
a plurality of triangular central compartments 506. In the
embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the stitching 511 may follow a diagonal
direction with respect to the topper and the stitching 510 may
follow a vertical and/or horizontal direction with respect to the
topper, thereby forming the triangular central compartments 506. In
another exemplary embodiment, the topper 500 may comprise
additional stitching 515 which may alter the size and or shape of
the central compartments 506.
[0052] Shown in FIG. 6 is another exemplary embodiment of a
mattress topper 600 illustrating yet another quilting/stitching
pattern. The mattress topper 600 may comprise a cushion element 602
and a fabric cover 604 substantially as described above with
reference to the cushion element 102 and fabric cover 104 of FIG.
1. In the embodiment of FIG. 6, the mattress topper 600 may
comprise a pattern of stitching 610 which may provide a plurality
of rectangular compartments extending across the width of the
mattress topper 600 (typically without a border compartment). In
other words, the stitching 610 may form lines across the width of
the topper 600, extending substantially from one side to the other
side across the width of the topper 600 (although in some
embodiments, the stitching may not extend all the way to the edge
of the upper surface of the topper, but might provide a slight gap
at the edges while extending across the central portion of the
topper). So in some embodiments, a plurality of continuous
stitching lines might extend horizontally across substantially the
width of the topper 600 (for example, with no border compartment
encompassing the central compartments 607). In other embodiments,
not shown, the central compartments 607 (formed by a plurality of
horizontal stitching lines as discussed above) might be encompassed
by a border compartment located about the edges of the upper
surface of the topper (as described above with respect to FIG. 1,
for example). Typically, such rectangular central compartments 607
extending substantially the width of the topper 600 might have a
width of about 5-10 inches (for example approximately 9 inches)
(e.g. with the horizontal stitching lines located about 5-10 inches
apart (for example approximately 9 inches apart)), while extending
substantially across the width of the topper 600, for example.
[0053] Shown in FIG. 7 is another exemplary embodiment of a
mattress topper 700 illustrating yet another quilting/stitching
pattern. The mattress topper 700 may comprise a cushion element 702
and a fabric cover 704 substantially as described above with
reference to the cushion element 102 and fabric cover 104 of FIG.
1. In the embodiment of FIG. 7, the mattress topper 700 may
comprise a pattern of stitching 710 which may provide a plurality
of rectangular compartments extending across the length of the
mattress topper 700 (typically without a border compartment). In
other words, the stitching 710 may form lines across the length of
the topper 700, extending substantially from one side (e.g. foot)
to the other side (e.g. head) across the length of the topper 700
(although in sonic embodiments, the stitching may not extend all
the way to the edge of the upper surface of the topper, but might
provide a slight gap at the edges while extending across the
central portion of the topper). So in some embodiments, a plurality
of continuous stitching lines might extend vertically across
substantially the length of the topper 700 (with no border
compartment encompassing the central compartments 707). In other
embodiments, not shown, the central compartments 707 (formed by a
plurality of vertical stitching lines as discussed above) might be
encompassed by a border compartment located about the edges of the
upper surface of the topper (as described above with respect to
FIG. 1, for example). Typically, such rectangular central
compartments 707 extending substantially the length of the topper
700 might have a width of about 5-10 inches (for example
approximately 9 inches) (e.g. with the vertical stitching lines
located about 5-10 inches apart, for example approximately 9 inches
apart), while extending substantially across the length of the
topper 700, for example.
[0054] Shown in FIG. 8 is another exemplary embodiment of a
mattress topper 800 illustrating yet another quilting/stitching
pattern. The mattress topper 800 may comprise a cushion element
802, a fabric cover 804, and a border compartment 808 substantially
as described above with reference to the cushion element 102,
fabric cover 104, and border compartment 108 of FIG. 1. In the
embodiment of FIG. 8, the mattress topper 800 may comprise only a
single central compartment 807 located within the border
compartment 808 (e.g. the stitching which forms the border
compartment might also form the single central compartment). Of
course, in other embodiments, there may be a plurality of central
compartments within the border compartment, for example formed by
additional stitching (similar to examples discussed above).
[0055] As can be seen from the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-8, any
combination of vertical, horizontal, diagonal and/or curved
stitches (which may be any number and/or length) may be used to
form the central and/or border compartments of the topper and may
be included in the scope of this disclosure. However, constraints
may be placed on the size of the compartments to preserve the
integrity and/or thickness of the cushion element of the topper. In
other words, the compartments (including central and border
compartments) may be small enough and/or close enough together to
moderate or attenuate disintegration of the cushion element during
a washing and/or drying process, while not being so small and/or
close together as to compromise the integrity/thickness (and
therefore the comfort/support properties) of the cushion element.
Additionally, the complexity of the stitching pattern and/or the
amount of thread used may be limited by manufacturing costs of the
topper.
[0056] FIGS. 9-11 show cut-away views of exemplary toppers (which
might be similar to those discussed above, for example with respect
to the compartments/quilting pattern), illustrating in more detail
the internal components of such exemplary toppers (which typically
are similar except in the aspects explicitly discussed). For
example, the exemplary toppers of FIGS. 9-11 may comprise a cushion
element (located within a cover/ticking) including a fiber-foam
layer and at least one spacer fabric layer. FIG. 12 shows an
exploded view of the embodiment of FIG. 9, further detailing the
internal elements. Thus, FIGS. 9-12 may help to further illustrate
the cushion element embodiments discussed above.
[0057] FIG. 9 illustrates a (cut-away) portion of an exemplary
topper 900 (which might be similar to any of the toppers from FIGS.
1-8, for example). As the cut-away view shows, the topper comprises
a cover/ticking 904 (with an upper surface and a lower surface (and
side surfaces)) which encompasses a cushion element 902. The
cushion element 902 in FIG. 9 comprises a fiber-foam layer 902a and
a spacer fabric layer 902b, with the spacer fabric layer 902b
directly contacting one surface of the fiber-foam layer 902a. For
example, the spacer fabric layer 902b might underlie the fiber-foam
layer 902a. And in some embodiments, the spacer fabric layer 902b
may be attached to the fiber-foam layer 902a. Typically, such
attachment of the spacer fabric layer 902b to the fiber-foam layer
902a might be by stitching (for example, the stitching that forms
the compartments discussed above) and/or lamination (for example
adhesive binding the spacer fabric layer to the fiber-foam layer).
In some embodiments, such as shown in exemplary FIG. 10 (which is
similar in many ways to FIG. 9), the cushion element 1002 might
also comprise a non-slip layer 1005 (for example of PVC), in
addition to the fiber-foam layer 1002a and the spacer fabric layer
1002b (which are similar to those described above with respect to
FIG. 9). And again (similar to FIG. 9), the cover
encompasses/envelops the cushion element 1002.
[0058] FIG. 11 illustrates a (cut-away) portion of another
exemplary topper 1100 (which might be similar to any of the toppers
from FIGS. 1-8, for example), which is similar to that shown in
FIG. 9 but which has a cushion element 1102 which comprises two
spacer fabric layers 1102b, c on either side of the fiber-foam
layer 1102a. As the cut-away view shows, the topper comprises a
cover/ticking 1104 (with an upper surface and a lower surface (and
side surfaces)) which encompasses a cushion element 1102. The
cushion element 1102 in FIG. 11 comprises a fiber-foam layer 1102a,
an upper spacer fabric layer 1102b, and a lower spacer fabric layer
1102c, with the spacer fabric layers 1102b,c directly contacting
opposing surfaces of the fiber-foam layer 1102a. For example, one
spacer fabric layer 1102c might underlie the fiber-foam layer
1102a, while the other spacer fabric layer 1102b might lie atop
fiber-foam layer 1102a. And in some embodiments, the spacer fabric
layers 1102b,c may be attached (for example, permanently attached)
to the fiber-foam layer 1102a. Typically, such attachment of the
spacer fabric layer 1102b, c to the fiber-foam layer 1102a might be
by stitching (for example, the stitching that forms the
compartments discussed above) and/or lamination (for example
adhesive binding the spacer fabric layer to the fiber-foam
layer).
[0059] FIG. 12 illustrates an exploded view of an exemplary
mattress topper 1200 which is similar to the topper of FIG. 9,
showing the relationship of the various components of the topper
(for example with the cover 1204 encompassing (for example with
upper and lower surfaces, typically as well as the side surfaces)
the cushion element 1202, and with the cushion element 1202
comprising spacer fabric 1202b in contact with (and typically
joined to) at least one surface of a fiber-foam layer 1202a).
Furthermore, FIG. 12 shows in exploded view the spacer fabric layer
in more detail, illustrating the upper and lower surfaces of mesh
fabric 1291a and 1291b, as well as the interlinking lofted (e.g.
3D) warp-knit monofilament spacer yarn 1292 which joins (for
example, being knit between) and spaces/separates the upper and
lower mesh surfaces 1291a and 1291b.
[0060] Formation of disclosed topper embodiments might comprise one
or more of the following steps: selecting cover material (for
example, based on airflow rate, ability to resist shrinking and/or
stretching during washing and/or drying, density/weight, etc.) and
forming a cover (which for example, might initially be formed as an
envelope operable to encompass a cushion element for a topper and
open on one side (to allow for insertion of the cushion element),
for example sized to one of the standard mattress sizes (for
example, twin, full, queen, king, etc.)); selecting cushion
material(s) (for example, based on airflow rate, ability to resist
shrinking and/or stretching during washing and/or drying,
density/weight, etc.) and forming a cushion (for example with
spacer fabric and fiber-foam, which might be placed in contact
and/or laminated to each other) sized to one of the standard
mattress sizes and sized to fit in the cover; inserting the cushion
element into the cover (or otherwise enveloping the cushion element
with the cover, so that the cover encompasses the cushion element);
closing (for example, with stitching) the cover (so that the cover
completely encompasses the cushion element); and stitching through
the cover (e.g. both the upper and lower surfaces of the cover) and
the cushion element to form one or more compartments (e.g.
permanently attaching the cover to the cushion element while also
compartmentalizing the cushion). Typically, the cushion element
might be compressed during stitching, so that the stitching holds
the cushion element at those stitch points in compression, while
also permanently affixing the cover to the cushion element (as well
as the spacer fabric to the fiber-foam layer) at the stitching
points. Typically, the stitching might comprise tack-and-jump
stitching and/or channel stitching (and typically a combination, as
previously discussed). And typically, one or more continuous lines
of stitching would be used to form the compartments and/or
permanently affix/attach the cover to the cushion element. In some
embodiments, forming compartments might include forming a border
compartment around the exterior of the topper (for example, with
continuous stitching inset 1-3 inches from the edges) and/or
forming one or more central compartments within the border
compartment. In other embodiments, forming compartments might
comprise forming a plurality of compartments without a border
compartment (for example, with rectangular compartments extending
across the width or length of the topper). The stitching process
could form any of the quilting patterns discussed above, by way of
non-limiting example.
[0061] While various embodiments in accordance with the principles
disclosed herein have been shown and described above, modifications
thereof may be made by one skilled in the art without departing
from the spirit and the teachings of the disclosure. The
embodiments described herein are representative only and are not
intended to be limiting. Many variations, combinations, and
modifications are possible and are within the scope of the
disclosure. Alternative embodiments that result from combining,
integrating, and/or omitting features of the embodiment(s) are also
within the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of
protection is not limited by the description set out above, but is
defined by the claims which follow, that scope including all
equivalents of the subject matter of the claims. Each and every
claim is incorporated as further disclosure into the specification
and the claims are embodiment(s) of the present invention(s).
Furthermore, any advantages and features described above may relate
to specific embodiments, but shall not limit the application of
such issued claims to processes and structures accomplishing any or
all of the above advantages or having any or all of the above
features.
[0062] Additionally, the section headings used herein are provided
for consistency with the suggestions under 37 C.F.R. 1.77 or to
otherwise provide organizational cues. These headings shall not
limit or characterize the invention(s) set out in any claims that
may issue from this disclosure. Specifically and by way of example,
although the headings might refer to a "Field," the claims should
not be limited by the language chosen under this heading to
describe the so-called field. Further, a description of a
technology in the "Background" is not to be construed as an
admission that certain technology is prior art to any invention(s)
in this disclosure. Neither is the "Summary" to be considered as a
limiting characterization of the invention(s) set forth in issued
claims. Furthermore, any reference in this disclosure to
"invention" in the singular should not be used to argue that there
is only a single point of novelty in this disclosure. Multiple
inventions may be set forth according to the limitations of the
multiple claims issuing from this disclosure, and such claims
accordingly define the invention(s), and their equivalents, that
are protected thereby. In all instances, the scope of the claims
shall be considered on their own merits in light of this
disclosure, but should not be constrained by the headings set forth
herein.
[0063] Use of broader terms such as comprises, includes, and having
should be understood to provide support for narrower terms such as
consisting of, consisting essentially of, and comprised.
substantially of. Use of the term "optionally," "may," "might,"
"possibly," and the like with respect to any element of an
embodiment means that the element is not required, or
alternatively, the element is required, both alternatives being
within the scope of the embodiment(s). Also, references to examples
are merely provided for illustrative purposes, and are not intended
to be exclusive.
[0064] While several embodiments have been provided in the present
disclosure, it should be understood that the disclosed systems and
methods may be embodied in many other specific forms without
departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. The
present examples are to be considered as illustrative and not
restrictive, and the intention is not to be limited to the details
given herein. For example, the various elements or components may
be combined or integrated in another system or certain features may
be omitted or not implemented.
[0065] Also, techniques, systems, subsystems, and methods described
and illustrated in the various embodiments as discrete or separate
may be combined or integrated with other systems, modules,
techniques, or methods without departing from the scope of the
present disclosure. Other items shown or discussed as directly
coupled or communicating with each other may be indirectly coupled
or communicating through some interface, device, or intermediate
component, whether electrically, mechanically, or otherwise. Other
examples of changes, substitutions, and alterations are
ascertainable by one skilled in the art and could be made without
departing from the spirit and scope disclosed herein, and are
therefore included within the scope of this disclosure.
* * * * *