U.S. patent application number 15/209503 was filed with the patent office on 2017-04-20 for active mattress encasement.
The applicant listed for this patent is LEVITATION SCIENCES LLC. Invention is credited to William John Scarleski.
Application Number | 20170105543 15/209503 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52775747 |
Filed Date | 2017-04-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170105543 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Scarleski; William John |
April 20, 2017 |
ACTIVE MATTRESS ENCASEMENT
Abstract
An active mattress encasement which can be relatively easily
installed or removed or rotated over a mattress supported by a
foundation is disclosed. The encasement is formed to encapsulate a
mattress and may include a top panel, a bottom panel and multiple
side panels. One or more of the side panels are zippered together,
In one embodiment, the un-zippered side panels, i.e. side panels
without zippers, fixedly connect the top and bottom portions of the
side panels. In another embodiment, an inflatable volume is
integrated into the bottom panel. Alternatively, the inflatable
volume may be integrated with a separate detachable cover and
attached to the bottom panel by conventional means. The top and
bottom panels, as well as the side panels may be made from a
conventional materials. The underside of the top panel and
optionally the inside of the side panels may be coated with a
waterproof coating, such as polyurethane (TPU/PU), silicone, and/or
urethane to form a waterproof membrane. In accordance with an
important aspect of one embodiment of the invention, an interior
surface of the bottom panel is formed with a slick surface while
the exterior surface of the bottom panel is integrated with an
inflatable volume. The inflatable volume faces outwardly and is
adapted to be in contact with the foundation or optional bed skirt.
In this embodiment, the exterior surface of the bottom panel of the
encasement is formed at least partially with a non-slick surface.
The non-slick surface provides a frictional relationship between
the exterior surface of the bottom panel of the encasement and the
foundation or bed skirt while the encasement is being installed or
removed over a mattress. The slick interior surface of the bottom
panel allows a mattress to be rotated, installed, or removed, once
the bottom panel is juxtaposed between the mattress and the
foundation in an application in which the encasement is unzipped
and the top panel is disposed on the floor adjacent one end of the
mattress. Alternatively, a separate detachable cover may be used to
allow the mattress to be relatively easily installed or removed or
rotated with the encasement fully installed on the mattress.
Optional straps may be provided, fixedly attached to the
encasement, to allow the encasement to be snugged against the
mattress. This enables the encasement to be used with a relatively
wide range of mattress sizes and still provide a snug fit.
Inventors: |
Scarleski; William John;
(Chicago, IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
LEVITATION SCIENCES LLC |
Chicago |
IL |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
52775747 |
Appl. No.: |
15/209503 |
Filed: |
July 13, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14046047 |
Oct 4, 2013 |
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15209503 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47C 31/105 20130101;
Y10T 29/49826 20150115; A61G 7/1028 20130101; A47C 21/028 20130101;
A47C 21/06 20130101; A47C 27/087 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47C 31/10 20060101
A47C031/10; A47C 21/06 20060101 A47C021/06; A47C 21/02 20060101
A47C021/02 |
Claims
1-8. (canceled)
9. A method for installing an encasement on a mattress supported by
a foundation, said encasement having a top panel and a bottom
panel, wherein an interior surface of said bottom panel is formed
with a slick surface, the method comprising the steps of: (a)
removing the mattress from the foundation; (b) placing an unzipped
encasement on the foundation so that an interior surface of the
bottom panel is exposed and the exterior surface of the bottom
panel is in contact with the foundation and the top panel is placed
adjacent one end of the foundation; (c) sliding the mattress onto
the slick surface on the interior of said bottom panel of the
encasement; (d) after the mattress is in place over the bottom
panel of the encasement, placing the top panel of the encasement
over a top surface of a mattress; and (e) zipping up the encasement
around said mattress.
10. The method as recited in claim 9, further including the step of
installing a bed skirt after the mattress has been removed in step
(a) and placing the exterior surface of the bottom panel of the
encasement on top of the bed skirt so that an exterior surface of
the encasement is in contact with the bed skirt.
11. A method for rotating a mattress encased by an encasement and
supported by a foundation, said encasement having a top panel and a
bottom panel selectively secured together by a plurality of sides
by way of a zipper, an interior surface of said bottom panel formed
with a slick surface, the method comprising the steps of: (a)
unzipping the encasement on said at least three sides; (b) removing
the top panel of the encasement from a top surface of said
mattress; (c) rotating the mattress with respect to the foundation;
and (d) re-installing the top panel over the top surface of the
mattress; and (e) zipping up the encasement.
12. A method for rotating a mattress encased by an encasement and
supported by a foundation, said encasement having a top panel and a
bottom panel selectively secured together by a plurality of
zippered sides and further including an inflatable volume formed
from said bottom panel and configured to be selectively connectable
to an external source of air, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) securing a cover having a slick surface and a non-slick surface
to an underside of an said bottom panel of said encasement so that
the slick surface of said cover is in contact with the foundation
and the non-slick surface of said cover is in contact with the
inflatable volume formed from the underside of said bottom panel to
protect the inflatable volume during rotation; (b) enabling air
from said external air supply to be directed into said inflatable
volume to raise mattress with respect to said foundation to
rotation of said mattress; (c) rotating said mattress with respect
to the foundation;
13. The method as recited in claim 11 further including step (c) as
follows: (c) unsecuring said cover from said bottom panel of said
encasement and securing said cover to said foundation.
14. (canceled)
15. A method for rotating a mattress encased in an encasement
supported on a foundation, said encasement having a top panel and a
bottom panel, selectively secured together by way of a plurality of
side panels and a zipper on at least three sides, said interior
surface of said bottom panel having a slick surface, said
encasement having an inflatable volume formed from its bottom
surface and configured to be selectively connectable to an external
source of air, the method comprising the steps of: (a) unzipping
said at least three sides of the encasement (b) removing the top
panel from the mattress; and (c) rotating the mattress on an
interior surface of a bottom panel of the encasement.
16. A method for rotating a mattress encased in an encasement
supported on a foundation, said encasement having a top panel and a
bottom panel, selectively secured together with a plurality of side
panels and a zipper on at least three sides, the method comprising
the steps of: (a) securing a cover to said foundation, said cover
having an inflatable volume formed from its bottom surface and
configured to be selectively connectable to an external source of
air, said cover configured with a surface is in contact with the
foundation; and (b) rotating the mattress with respect to the
cover.
17. A cover for facilitating rotation of a mattress with respect to
a foundation, the cover comprising: a panel formed with an
integrated inflatable volume and configured to be selectively
inflated by an air supply, and a plurality of side walls secured to
said panel to enable said panel and integrated inflatable volume to
be selectively secured to an underside of the mattress in a
non-rotate mode of operation, wherein one side of said panel is
formed with a slick surface to facilitate rotation of said mattress
in said rotate mode of operation.
18. A method for maneuvering a mattress supported by a foundation,
wherein said mattress is encased by an encasement formed with a top
panel and a bottom panel and further including a cover disposed
between said foundation and bottom of said encasement, said cover
formed with an integrated inflatable volume configured to be
selectively inflated by an air supply and said cover having at
least one slick surface, said cover disposed so that said at least
one slick surface is in contact with said encasement, the method
comprising the steps of: (a) selectively securing the cover to the
foundation; and (b) sliding said mattress with respect to said
slick surface of said cover.
19. A method for maneuvering a mattress supported by a foundation,
wherein said mattress is encased by an encasement formed with a top
panel and a bottom panel and further including a cover disposed
between said foundation and said encasement, said cover formed with
an integrated inflatable volume configured to be selectively
inflated by an air supply, the method comprising the steps of: (a)
selectively securing the cover to the encasement in a bed making
mode of operation; and (b) enabling air from said external air
supply to be directed into said inflatable volume to raise mattress
with respect to said foundation to facilitate bed making.
20. An encasement system comprising: an encasement for encasing a
mattress, said encasement including an inflatable volume configured
to be selectively inflated by an air supply to lift said mattress
with respect to a foundation and facilitate bed making in a bed
making mode of operation; and a cover having a slick surface on one
side and a non-slick surface on an opposing side, configured to be
disposed between an underside of said mattress and said inflatable
volume of said encasement so that said non-slick side is in contact
with said inflatable volume and said slick surface is in contact
with said foundation wherein in a rotate mode of operation, said
cover is secured to said mattress over said encasement, and in a
normal mode of operation, said cover is secured to said
foundation.
21. The cover as recited in claim 17, wherein said inflatable
volume includes an at least one adjustable air discharge valve.
22. The encasement as recited in claim 20, wherein said inflatable
volume includes an at least one air discharge hole.
23. The encasement as recited in claim 20, wherein said inflatable
volume includes an at least one adjustable air discharge valve.
24. An cover as recited in claim 17, wherein at least one of said
top panel or said bottom panel integrally forms at least a portion
of at least one side panel.
25. An encasement as recited in claim 20, wherein at least one of
said top panel or said bottom panel integrally forms at least a
portion of at least one side panel.
26. A method for rotating a mattress encased by an encasement and
supported by a foundation, said encasement having a top panel and a
bottom panel selectively secured together by a plurality of
zippered sides and further including an inflatable volume formed
from said bottom panel and configured to be selectively connectable
to an external source of air, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) securing a cover having a slick surface and a non-slick surface
to an underside of said bottom panel of said encasement so that the
non-slick surface of said cover is in contact with the foundation
and the slick surface of said cover is in contact with the
inflatable volume formed from the underside of said bottom panel to
protect the inflatable volume during rotation; (b) rotating said
mattress with respect to the foundation.
27. The method as recited in claim 26 further including step (c) as
follows: (c) unsecuring said cover from said foundation and
securing said mattress to said foundation.
28. A method for rotating a mattress encased in an encasement
supported on a foundation, said encasement having a top panel and a
bottom panel, selectively secured together with a plurality of side
panels and a zipper on at least three sides, the method comprising
the steps of: (a) securing a cover to said foundation, said cover
having an inflatable volume formed from its bottom surface and
configured to be selectively connectable to an external source of
air, said cover configured with a slick surface that is in contact
with bottom panel of the encasement; and (b) rotating the
mattress.
29. A method for maneuvering a mattress supported by a foundation,
wherein said mattress is encased by an encasement formed with a top
panel and a bottom panel and further including a cover disposed
between said foundation and bottom of said encasement, said cover
formed with an integrated inflatable volume-configured to be
selectively inflated by an air supply and said cover having at
least one slick surface, said cover disposed so that said at least
one slick surface is in contact with said foundation, the method
comprising the steps of: (a) selectively securing the cover to the
mattress; and (b) sliding said mattress with respect to said
foundation.
30. A method for maneuvering a mattress supported by a foundation,
wherein said mattress is encased by an encasement formed with a top
panel and a bottom panel and further including a cover disposed
between said foundation and said encasement, said cover formed with
an integrated inflatable volume configured to be selectively
inflated by an air supply, the method comprising the steps of: (a)
selectively securing the cover to the foundation in a bed making
mode of operation; and (b) enabling air from a said external air
supply to be directed into said inflatable volume to raise mattress
with respect to said to facilitate bed making.
31. An encasement system comprising: an encasement for encasing a
mattress, said encasement including an inflatable volume configured
to be selectively inflated by an air supply to lift said mattress
with respect to a foundation and facilitate bed making in a bed
making mode of operation; and a cover having a slick surface on one
side and a non-slick surface on an opposing side, configured to be
disposed between an underside of said mattress and said inflatable
volume of said encasement so that said non-slick side is in contact
with said inflatable volume and said slick surface is in contact
with said inflatable volume wherein in a rotate mode of operation,
said cover is secured to said to said foundation, and in a normal
mode of operation, said cover is secured to said mattress over said
encasement.
32. The cover as recited in claim 17, wherein said inflatable
volume includes an air valve.
33. The encasement as recited in claim 32, further including a HEPA
filter.
34. The encasement as recited in claim 20, wherein said inflatable
volume includes an air valve.
35. The encasement as recited in claim 34, further including a HEPA
filter.
36. The cover as recited in claim 17, wherein said inflatable
volume includes at least one attachment point within the perimeter
of said inflatable volume.
37. The encasement as recited in claim 20, wherein said inflatable
volume includes at least one attachment point within the perimeter
of said inflatable volume.
38. The encasement as recited in claim 20, wherein said inflatable
volume is formed from two sheet of material wherein both sheets are
the same size.
39. The encasement as recited in claim 20, wherein said inflatable
volume is formed from two sheet of material wherein both sheets are
not the same size.
40. The cover as recited in claim 17, wherein said inflatable
volume is formed from two sheet of material wherein both sheets are
the same size.
41. The cover as recited in claim 17, wherein said inflatable
volume is formed from two sheet of material wherein both sheets are
not the same size.
42. The encasement as recited in claim 20, wherein said exterior
surface of said top panel is made from a waterproof material.
43. The cover as recited in claim 17, wherein at least a portion of
said inflatable volume includes a slick surface.
44. The encasement as recited in claim 20, wherein at least a
portion of said inflatable volume includes a slick surface.
45. The encasement as recited in claim 31, wherein said inflatable
volume includes an air valve.
47. The encasement as recited in claim 45, further including a HEPA
filter.
48. The encasement as recited in claim 31, wherein said exterior
surface of said top panel is made from a waterproof material.
49. The encasement as recited in claim 31, wherein at least a
portion of said inflatable volume includes a slick surface.
50. The encasement as recited in claim 31, wherein said inflatable
volume includes at least one attachment point within the perimeter
of said inflatable volume.
51. The encasement as recited in claim 31, wherein said inflatable
volume includes at least one air discharge hole.
52. The encasement as recited in claim 31, wherein said inflatable
volume includes an at least one adjustable air discharge valve.
53. The encasement as recited in claim 31, wherein said inflatable
volume is formed from two sheet of material wherein both sheets are
the same size.
54. The encasement as recited in claim 31, wherein said inflatable
volume is formed from two sheet of material wherein both sheets are
not the same size.
55. A method for installing a bed skirt on a foundation which
supports a mattress, said mattress encased by an encasement having
a top panel and a bottom panel and one or more side panels
selectively secured together with a zipper on at least three sides,
wherein an interior surface of said bottom panel is formed with a
slick surface, the method comprising the steps of: (a) installing a
bed skirt on the foundation; (b) placing an unzipped encasement on
the bed skirt so that said interior surface of the bottom panel of
the encasement is exposed and the exterior surface of the bottom
panel of the encasement is in contact with the bed skirt; (c)
sliding a mattress onto the interior surface of said bottom panel
over the bed skirt;
56. A method for replacing a bed skirt on a foundation which
supports a mattress, said mattress encased by an encasement having
a top panel and a bottom panel and one or more side panels
selectively secured together with a zipper on at least three sides,
wherein an interior surface of said bottom panel is formed with a
slick surface, the method comprising the steps of: (c) removing the
existing bed skirt and replacing it with a Previously Presented or
laundered bed skirt over the foundation; (b) placing an unzipped
encasement on the bed skirt so that said interior surface of the
bottom panel of the encasement is exposed and the exterior surface
of the bottom panel of the encasement is in contact with the bed
skirt; (c) sliding a mattress onto the interior surface of said
bottom panel over the bed skirt;
57. A method for rotating a mattress encased in an encasement
supported on a foundation, wherein a bed skirt is in place over
said foundation, said encasement having a top panel and a bottom
panel, selectively secured together by way of a plurality of side
panels and a zipper on at least three sides, said interior surface
of said bottom panel having a slick surface, said encasement having
an inflatable volume formed from its bottom surface and configured
to be selectively connectable to an external source of air, the
method comprising the steps of: (a) unzipping said at least three
sides of the encasement; (b) removing the top panel of said
encasement from the mattress; (c) rotating the mattress on said
interior surface of said bottom panel of the encasement over said
bed skirt; and (d) zipping up said encasement around said
mattress.
58. A method for maneuvering a mattress supported by a foundation,
wherein a bed skirt covers the foundation and said mattress is
encased by an encasement and further including a cover disposed
between said bed skirt and bottom of said encasement, said cover
formed with an integrated inflatable volume configured to be
selectively inflated by an air supply and said cover having at
least one slick surface, said cover disposed so that said at least
one slick surface is in contact with an underside of said mattress
encasement, the method comprising the steps of: (a) selectively
securing the cover to the foundation over said bed skirt; and (b)
maneuvering said mattress with respect to said foundation while
said cover holds the bed skirt in place.
59. The method as recited in claim 58 wherein step (b) includes
sliding said mattress with respect to said foundation.
60. The method as recited in claim 58 wherein step (b) includes
rotating said mattress with respect to said foundation.
61. A method for installing a bed skirt on a foundation used to
support a mattress, said mattress encased by an encasement and
further including a cover disposed between said bed skirt and
bottom of said encasement, said cover formed with an integrated
inflatable volume configured to be selectively inflated by an air
supply and said cover having at least one slick surface, said cover
disposed so that said at least one slick surface faces upwardly,
the method comprising the steps of: (a) installing a bed skirt on
the foundation; (b) securing said cover to said foundation over
said bed skirt so that said slick surface of said cover faces
upwardly; (c) sliding a encased mattress over said slick surface of
said cover over said bed skirt;
62. A method for installing a bed skirt on a foundation which
supports a mattress, said mattress having an encasement having a
top panel and a bottom panel selectively secured together by way of
a plurality of side panels and a zipper on at least three sides,
wherein an interior surface of said bottom panel is formed with a
slick surface, further including a cover having at least one slick
surface, the method comprising the steps of: (a) installing a bed
skirt on the foundation; (b) securing the cover to the foundation
over said bed skirt so that its slick surface faces upwardly; (c)
sliding a encased mattress over said slick surface of said cover
over said
63. The method as recited in claim 62, further including the step
of unsecuring the cover from the foundation and securing it to the
underside of the mattress over the encasement.
64. A method for maneuvering a mattress supported by a foundation
which supports a mattress, said mattress encased by an encasement:
(a) securing said cover to said foundation over said bed skirt so
that its slick surface faces upwardly; and (b) maneuvering said
mattress with respect to said foundation while said cover holds
said bed skirt in place over said foundation.
65. The method as recited in claim 64, wherein step (b) includes
sliding said mattress with respect to said foundation.
66. The method as recited in claim 64 wherein step (b) includes
rotating said mattress with respect to said foundation.
67. A method for installing a bed skirt on a foundation which
supports a mattress, said mattress encased by an encasement having
a top panel and a bottom panel and one or more side panels
selectively secured together with a zipper on at least three sides,
wherein an interior surface of said bottom panel is formed with a
slick surface, further including a cover having at least one
non-slick surface, the method comprising the steps of: a)
installing a bed skirt on the foundation; (b) installing a cover
over the bed skirt supported by on the foundation so that said
non-slick surface is in contact with the bed skirt. (b) placing an
unzipped encasement on the cover;
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to an active encasement which
can be installed or removed relatively easily over a mattress
supported by a foundation or fixed or adjustable platform
(hereinafter "foundation") which also facilitates bed making and
rotation of the mattress even in applications in which a bed skirt
is installed over a foundation and can accommodate a relatively
wide range of mattress sizes.
[0003] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0004] Mattress encasements are used as a prophylactic cover over
an entire mattress to protect the mattress from various situations,
such as parasites and stains, for example, pet stains. Such
encasements are also available for box springs. Examples of such
encasements are disclosed in US Patent Application Publication
Nos.: US 2012/0260426; US 2012/0255120; 2012/0192356; 2012/0167302;
and 2011/00100856 as well as U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,087,111 and
8,156,588, all hereinafter incorporated by reference.
[0005] Some known encasements are made from a vinyl material. There
are several problems with such vinyl encasements. One such problem
is that they are uncomfortable. Another problem relates to cleaning
them after being in contact with blood, urine or other matter. Such
vinyl encasements cannot be laundered. In order to solve this
problem, encasements made from launderable materials have been
developed. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 8,087,111 discloses an
encasement formed from two layers; an inner layer and an outer
layer. The outer layer is formed from cotton or other common
encasement material or a material commonly used for mattress
protectors, as well as bedding fabric, such as polyester or a
polyester-cotton blend. The inner layer is formed as a waterproof
membrane, for example, a polyurethane or other suitable waterproof
coating.
[0006] Because of the need for laundering, some known encasements
are formed with a zipper along one to three sides forming a pocket
on one end for installation and removal for laundering. In order to
launder the encasement, the mattress is normally flipped upside
down so that the mattress top is in contact with the foundation and
the dust cover is facing upwardly. Next, the mattress is slid off
one end to enable the pocket to be slipped over one end of the
mattress. The encasement is then slipped over the rest of the
mattress. The mattress is again flipped over so that the dust cover
is resting on the foundation and the comfort top is facing
upwardly. The top layer of the encasement with the waterproof
membrane is then zipped to the bottom layer to complete the
installation. In order to remove an encasement, the zipper is
unzipped along one or more sides and the mattress is lifted from
the foundation to remove the encasement.
[0007] Mattresses are relatively heavy items. The weight of a
mattress varies as a function of the coil core size, the gauge of
the coil and the type of foam material used. An average king size
mattress weighs between 85 and 115 pounds. High end king size
mattresses with latex or memory foam can weigh as much as 300
pounds (http:/www.mattressdirectonline.com). As such, lifting the
mattress to remove the encasement and flipping it over twice to
install a clean encasement can be an extremely difficult task,
especially in hotels and motels where multiple encasements must be
changed in a single day.
[0008] Another problem relates to rotation of a mattress that is
encased in an encasement. For one thing, the mattress handles are
covered by the encasement making an encased mattress difficult to
lift and rotate. The problem is especially acute if there is a bed
skirt on the foundation. In that case, rotation of the mattress
would move the bed skirt out of position, essentially requiring the
mattress to be rotated by lifting the mattress and rotating the
mattress while lifted relative to the foundation.
[0009] Another problem relates to the fact that there is no
standard size for a mattress. Commonly available mattresses are
normally 4'' to 18'' in depth. Some available mattresses are 20''
in depth or more. Although the length and width measurements of
various mattresses are fairly standard, there are known differences
in the lengths and the perimeters of the various mattresses.
Although different encasement sizes are manufactured to accommodate
the various mattress depths, known encasements do not address the
differences in mattress and perimeter lengths. As such, the
encasements, depending on the mattress size, do not always provide
a snug fit relative to the mattress, which is highly undesirable
from a housekeeping standpoint.
[0010] Another known problem relates to bed making. In particular,
hotel and motel chains as well as healthcare facilities which
include hospitals, nursing homes and extended care facilities
(hereinafter "commercial facilities") are known to encase their
mattresses and box springs in encasements. Such commercial
facilities are also known to only use flat sheets in their
facilities due to the lower cost of flat sheets relative to fitted
sheets and the desire to maintain fewer items in their respective
inventories. As such, in order to properly make the beds in such
facilities which utilize flat sheets, housekeeping personnel need
to lift the mattress, which can be quite heavy, as discussed above.
More particularly, in such facilities, beds are made with a top
sheet and a bottom sheet and a blanket. Both the top sheet and the
bottom sheets are flat sheets. In order to properly make the bed,
the top and bottom sheets are tucked in between the top mattress
and the box spring. More specifically, the bottom sheet is placed
on the bed, so that an equal amount of the sheet hangs off each
side of the bed and an equal amount of the sheet hangs off the head
and foot regions of the bed. The excess is tucked in at the head
and foot regions of the bed to form so called "hospital corners".
Next, the excess portions of the bottom sheet are tucked in between
the mattress and the foundation. The top sheet is then placed on
top of the bottom sheet and placed and tucked in the same manner as
the bottom sheet with hospital style corners except the head region
is left open. In other words, only the foot and side portions of
the top sheet are tucked between the mattress and the box spring.
Next, a blanket is placed on the bed and may be tucked in the same
manner as the top sheet.
[0011] In order to tuck the top and bottom sheets between the
mattress and the box spring, the top mattress must normally be
lifted. As mentioned above, mattresses can weigh up to 300 pounds.
In order to make a bed, a housekeeping employee may need to lift a
mattress up to ten (10) times per bed. Assuming that each
housekeeping employee in a hotel, motel or healthcare facility
makes at least 15-30 beds in a single shift, each housekeeping
employee would typically lift a mattress at least 150-300 times per
shift. Since bed making is a daily chore, housekeeping employees
probably lift mattresses 150-200 times per shift on a daily
basis.
[0012] Such sustained and repetitive lifting may lead to employees
developing various repetitive injury problems, resulting in
employees missing work or, in severe cases, being placed on
disability. Measures have been taken to mitigate such health
problems. For example, simply using fitted sheets for the lower
sheet reduces the number of times the mattress is to be lifted by
an estimated 40%. However, fitted sheets do not allow for the
bottom sheets to be made into "hospital corners" that hospitals are
known for. Moreover, even using fitted sheets for the bottom sheet
still requires a housekeeping employee to lift mattresses at least
90-160 times per day using the example above.
[0013] Moreover, the use of fitted sheets is not without its
drawbacks. For example, fitted sheets cost more than flat sheets.
In addition, fitted sheets increase the sheet inventory of hotels
and motels since both fitted and flat sheets must be stocked. Also,
frequent washing of sheets in commercial facilities tends to wear
out the elastic in fitted sheets. As such, fitted sheets used in
such facilities need to be replaced in applications in commercial
facilities more frequently than straight sheets.
[0014] Thus, there is a need for an encasement that can easily be
installed or removed for changing or laundering that facilitates
bed making as well as rotation of a mattress to even out body
impressions, even in applications which include a bed skirt and can
accommodate a range of mattress sizes. There is also a need for
further minimizing or eliminating the need for housekeeping
employees to lift mattresses while tucking in unfitted flat sheets
while still providing "hospital corners" on the made beds.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0015] Briefly, the present invention relates to an active
encasement which can be relatively easily installed or removed over
a mattress supported by a foundation. The encasement is formed to
encapsulate a mattress and includes a top panel, a bottom panel and
four side panels. One or more of the four side panels are zippered
together. In an embodiment with one, two, or three zippered side
panels, the un-zippered side panels may be configured to fixedly
connect the top panel to the bottom panel. In one embodiment, an
inflatable volume is integrated into the bottom panel. In an
alternative embodiment, the inflatable volume may be integrated
with a separate detachable cover and attached to the bottom panel
by conventional means. The top and bottom panels as well as the
side panels may be formed from a conventional or non-conventional
encasement material or a material commonly used for mattress
protectors, as well as conventional bedding material and/or
waterproof and/or spill proof and/or moisture proof and/or
anti-bacterial and/or anti-allergen and/or anti-dust-mite and/or
bed bug proof material, such as TPU polyurethane coated terry
cotton, polyester knit, vinyl, bamboo fabric, or silver infused or
coated type material, or any combination of the above (hereinafter
"materials"). The underside of the top panel and optionally the
inside of the side panels may be coated, embossed or otherwise
covered with a waterproof layer or coating, such as polyurethane,
to form a waterproof membrane. In accordance with an important
aspect of one embodiment of the invention, an interior surface of
the bottom panel of the encasement is formed with a slick surface
while the exterior surface of the bottom panel is integrated with
an inflatable volume that faces outwardly and is adapted to be in
contact with the foundation or bed skirt. In this embodiment, the
exterior surface of the bottom panel of the encasement is formed as
a non-slick surface. The non-slick surface provides a frictional
relationship between the exterior surface of the bottom panel of
the encasement and the foundation or bed skirt while the encasement
is being installed, removed, or rotated with respect to a mattress,
relative to the foundation. The slick interior surface of the
bottom panel allows a mattress to be rotated once the bottom panel
is juxtaposed between the mattress and the foundation in an
application in which the encasement is unzipped and the top panel
is disposed on the floor adjacent one end of the mattress.
Alternatively, a separate detachable cover may be used to allow the
mattress to be rotated with the encasement fully installed on the
mattress. Optional straps may be provided, rigidly affixed to the
encasement. These straps allow the encasement to be snugged against
the mattress to enable the encasement to be used with a relatively
wide range of mattress sizes and still provide a snug fit.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
[0016] These and other advantages of the present invention will be
readily understood with reference to the following specification
and attached drawing wherein:
[0017] FIG. 1a is a front elevational view of one embodiment of an
active encasement with an integrated inflatable volume in
accordance with the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 1b is similar to FIG. 1a but illustrating an
alternative embodiment in which the inflatable volume is integrated
into a separate cover that may be attached and detached from an
encasement by conventional techniques.
[0019] FIG. 1c is a bottom view of the encasement shown in FIG. 1a
illustrating an optional air valve with an optional cap integrally
formed in a bottom panel of the encasement.
[0020] FIG. 1d is a section view of the encasement illustrated in
FIG. 1a illustrating an optional filter, such as a HEPA filter,
attached to an interior or exterior surface of the encasement for
filtering air into and out of the encasement.
[0021] FIG. 1e is an alternate embodiment of the invention in which
a zipper is disposed in a short side panel on one end along three
(3) edges of the side panel, illustrating the encasement zipped and
unzipped.
[0022] FIG. 1f is similar to FIG. 1e but illustrating a zipper on a
long side panel.
[0023] FIG. 2 is an isometric view of mattress supported by a
foundation in which the mattress is covered with an encasement,
shown with the encasement partially unzipped at one end.
[0024] FIG. 2a is an enlarged partial view of one corner of the
mattress illustrated in FIG. 2.
[0025] FIG. 3 is an isometric view of a mattress covered with an
active encasement with an integrated inflatable volume with a
plurality of air discharge holes and an attachment point, shown
with a bed skirt covering the foundation and with the encased
mattress removed from the foundation.
[0026] FIG. 4 is similar to FIG. 3 except illustrating an
alternative embodiment of the encasement.
[0027] FIG. 5 is a partial isometric view of an air supply for use
with the present invention, shown with a conduit for feeding the
inflatable volume, illustrating one embodiment of an optional air
discharge valve in the conduit for regulating the airflow.
[0028] FIG. 6 is a sectional view of the valve illustrated in FIG.
5, shown with the valve closed.
[0029] FIG. 7 is similar to FIG. 6 but shown with the valve
partially open.
[0030] FIG. 8 is similar to FIG. 4 but shown without air discharge
holes and with an attachment point and an embodiment of an air
discharge valve, as illustrated in FIG. 8a, shown integrated into
the inflatable volume for varying the air discharge from the
inflatable volume.
[0031] FIG. 8a is view of the air discharge valve illustrated in
FIG. 8, shown partially open.
[0032] FIG. 9 is similar to FIG. 8 but shown with an alternate
embodiment with an attachment point and an air discharge valve
illustrated in FIG. 9a.
[0033] FIG. 9a is view of an alternate embodiment of an air
discharge valve illustrated in FIG. 9, shown partially open.
[0034] FIG. 10 is similar to FIG. 4, but illustrating an embodiment
in which the porosity of the bottom panel of the encasement is used
to control the air discharge as shown in FIG. 10a.
[0035] FIG. 10a is a partial enlarged view of a portion of the
bottom panel of the encasement illustrating the air flow there
through.
[0036] FIG. 11 is a partial sectional view of an active encasement
with an inflatable volume with a center attachment point and air
exit holes as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, which illustrates the
air flow into the inflatable volume which provides the lift.
[0037] FIGS. 12 and 13 are isomeric views illustrating a mattress
being removed from a foundation covered with a bed skirt, shown in
disarray.
[0038] FIG. 14 illustrates one embodiment of an encasement in
accordance with the present invention which includes three zippered
sides shown with all three zippered sides unzipped and with a
bottom panel in contact with a bed skirt covering the foundation
and the top panel of the encasement on the floor at one end of the
bed and a portion of the unzipped side panel resting on an interior
surface of the bottom panel, shown illustrating a person unfolding
the portion of the side panel that was resting on the interior
surface of the bottom panel so that the side panel portions of the
encasement are folded down and over the side panels of the bed
skirt for those embodiments that have side panels.
[0039] FIG. 15 illustrates the person sliding the mattress on top
of the interior surface of the bottom panel of the encasement.
[0040] FIG. 16 illustrates a top panel of the encasement being
placed over the top of the mattress, shown with the pump connected
to the inflatable volume which is integrated into the bottom panel
of the encasement.
[0041] FIG. 17 is similar to FIG. 16 shown with an upper side panel
portion of a side panel and a lower side panel portion the side
panel being zipped together.
[0042] FIG. 17a is an enlarged partial view of a portion of one
corner of mattress and foundation illustrated in FIG. 16,
illustrating the zipper on the encasement partially unzipped.
[0043] FIG. 18 is an isometric view of a mattress encased with an
active encasement, illustrating the upper and lower side panel
portions of the encasement being unzipped in preparation for
rotation of the mattress, shown with the pump connected to the
inflatable volume which is integrated into the bottom panel of the
encasement.
[0044] FIG. 19 illustrates the top panel of the encasement removed
from the mattress and draped on the floor at one end of the
mattress, shown with the pump connected to the inflatable volume
which is integrated into the bottom panel of the encasement.
[0045] FIG. 20 illustrates the lower side panel portions of the
encasement being folded down over the bed skirt, shown with the
pump connected to the inflatable volume which is integrated into
the bottom panel of the encasement.
[0046] FIG. 21 illustrates rotation of the mattress relative to an
interior surface of the bottom panel while the encasement and bed
skirt remains in place, shown with the pump connected to the
inflatable volume which is integrated into the bottom panel of the
encasement.
[0047] FIG. 22 is an isometric drawing of an alternative embodiment
of the invention, as illustrated in FIG. 1b, illustrating a
mattress encased with a conventional encasement, partially
unzipped, supported by a foundation covered with a bed skirt in
which the inflatable volume is integrated into a separate cover,
shown attached to the foundation over the bed skirt, shown with the
pump connected to the inflatable volume which is integrated into
the bottom panel of the encasement.
[0048] FIG. 23 is similar to FIG. 22 but illustrating the encased
mattress being rotated with respect to the cover, shown with the
pump connected to the inflatable volume which is integrated into
the bottom panel of the encasement.
[0049] FIG. 24 is similar to FIG. 22 but shown with the cover and
integrated inflatable volume attached to the mattress over the
encasement, shown with the pump connected to the inflatable volume
which is integrated into the bottom panel of the encasement.
[0050] FIG. 25 is a partial sectional view illustrating the air
flow when the inflatable volume is inflated.
[0051] FIG. 26 is a sectional view of a mattress encased by an
active encasement, shown with the inflatable volume inflated
illustrating a person making a bed with flat sheets.
[0052] FIG. 27 is a partial sectional view of the mattress and
foundation illustrated in FIG. 26, shown enlarged.
[0053] FIG. 28 is similar to FIG. 26 illustrating a portion of a
flat sheet being tucked under the mattress, between the bottom
surface of the inflatable volume and a bed skirt.
[0054] FIG. 29 is isometric view of an active encasement in
accordance with the present invention, installed on a mattress
carried by an adjustable platform, shown with the encased mattress
removed from the foundation.
[0055] FIG. 30 is an isomeric view of an optional vertical
adjustment device in accordance with the present invention,
installed in various locations on the side panels of an encasement
installed on a mattress to tighten the encasement with respect to a
mattress in a vertical direction, shown with pump connected to the
inflatable volume which is integrated into the bottom panel of the
encasement.
[0056] FIGS. 31-36 are partial isometric views of various optional
adjustment devices for use with the present invention.
[0057] FIG. 37 is an isometric view of an optional separate cover
for use with the present invention.
[0058] FIG. 37a is an alternate embodiment of the cover illustrated
in FIG. 37 illustrating an embodiment in which the side panels
overlap a portion of the rectangular panel of the cover, shown in a
position in which it is attached to the underside of a mattress
encasement.
[0059] FIG. 37b is similar to FIG. 37a but shown in a position in
which the cover is flipped down over a foundation.
[0060] FIG. 37c is a bottom view of the embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 37a.
[0061] FIG. 37d is a cross-sectional view of an alternate
embodiment of an encasement.
[0062] FIG. 37e is a bottom view of the encasement illustrated in
FIG. 37d.
[0063] FIG. 38 is an isometric drawing of an alternative embodiment
of the invention, as illustrated in FIG. 1a in which the encasement
includes an integral inflatable volume further illustrating a
separate cover as shown in FIG. 37, attached to the foundation
during a rotate mode of rotation, showing the mattress partially
rotated.
[0064] FIG. 39 is similar to FIG. 38 but illustrating the cover
over the mattress and the encased mattress after being rotated with
respect to the foundation, in a normal mode of operation.
[0065] FIG. 40 is an isometric view of a bed shown with an
encasement encasing a mattress illustrating optional horizontal
adjustment devices to snug the encasement relative to the
mattress.
[0066] FIG. 41 is similar to FIG. 40 and illustrates an alternative
embodiment of the optional horizontal device illustrated in FIG.
40.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0067] The present invention relates to an active encasement which
can be relatively easily installed or removed over a mattress
supported by a foundation. The encasement is formed to encapsulate
a mattress and includes a top panel, a bottom panel and optional
four side panels and a conventional, or alternatively, a
non-conventional, zipper and zipper enclosure, as well as zippers
and zipper enclosures typically used for encasements (hereinafter
"zipper"). The active encasement also includes an inflatable
volume. As used herein, a side panel is understood to mean those
portions or the encasement that contact the side panels of the
mattress when the encasement is installed. One or more of the side
panels are zippered together. In embodiments in which one, two, or
three panels are zippered together, the un-zippered side panel(s)
may be configured to fixedly connect the top panel to the bottom
panel. The top and bottom panels, as well as the side panels, may
be made from a conventional encasement material or a material
commonly used for mattress protectors, as well as conventional
bedding material, as described above. The underside of the top
panel and optionally the inside of the side panels may be coated
with a waterproof coating, such as polyurethane, to form a
waterproof membrane.
[0068] In alternative embodiments, the bottom panel may be
integrally formed to attach directly to the side panels of the
encasement. In this embodiment, the top panel and side panels may
be integrally formed and zippered directly to the bottom panel.
Alternatively, the bottom panel and side panel may be integrally
formed and zippered directly to the top panel.
[0069] In another alternative embodiment, the encasement may be
formed with an oversized top and bottom panels that are zippered
together on at least one side. The top and bottom panels are sized
to cover the top and bottom surfaces of a mattress as well as the
four side surfaces of the mattress. An extending portion which
extends from the top and bottom surfaces of the mattress fits up
against the side surfaces of the mattress. In this embodiment, one,
two, three or four edges of the top and bottom panels may be
zippered. In accordance with an important aspect of one embodiment
of the invention, the bottom panel is formed with a slick interior
surface and a non-slick exterior surface. The exterior non-slick
surface allows a mattress to be rotated while maintaining the
position of the bottom panel of the encasement relative to the
foundation and without affecting the position of an underlying bed
skirt in applications in which a bed skirt is covering the
foundation while the slick interior surface facilitates rotation of
the mattress. The present invention also facilitates installation
and removal of the encasement over a mattress or a foundation, such
as a box spring while eliminating the need to lift or flip the
mattress.
[0070] Optional straps may be provided, rigidly affixed to the
encasement. The straps allow the encasement to be snugged against
the mattress or foundation to enable the encasement to be used with
a relatively wide range of mattress and foundation depths and still
provide a snug fit.
[0071] In embodiments in which the inflatable volume is formed as
part of a separate cover, the cover is simply detached from the
encasement and attached to the foundation which may be covered with
a bed skirt. In this application, the mattress can be rotated with
the encasement fully installed with respect to the mattress. After
the mattress is rotated, for example, 180 degrees, the separate
cover with the integral inflatable volume may be reattached to the
mattress.
[0072] Four embodiments of the invention are contemplated. In a
first embodiment, the inflatable volume is integrally formed in a
bottom panel of the encasement. In a second embodiment of the
invention the inflatable volume is integrally formed in a
detachable separate cover. In a third embodiment, a separate cover
is used with the first embodiment. All three embodiments are
illustrated and described below. In a fourth embodiment, the
encasement is formed with extended side panels that can be folded
over to overlap the bottom panel and be attached thereto.
[0073] The first embodiment of the encasement includes an integral
inflatable volume as illustrated in FIGS. 1a, 2, 2a, 3, 4, 8-11 and
29. The second embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIGS.
1b and 22. FIG. 37 illustrates a separate cover which forms part of
the third embodiment. In this embodiment, a separate cover, for
example, an add-on device, is used with the encasement device
illustrated in FIG. 1a providing an alternative method for rotating
the mattress.
[0074] FIGS. 12-17a illustrate the installation of a first
embodiment of an encasement. FIGS. 18-21 illustrate rotation of a
mattress encased with a first embodiment of the invention. FIGS. 23
and 24 illustrate rotation of a mattress in accordance with the
second embodiment of the invention, illustrated in FIG. 1b. FIGS.
38 and 39 illustrate rotation of a mattress in accordance with the
third embodiment of the invention. FIGS. 37d and 37e illustrate a
fourth embodiment of the encasement.
[0075] FIGS. 26-28 illustrate the ease of bed making using the
invention. FIGS. 30-36 illustrate different methods of tightening
the encasement relative to the mattress in a vertical direction.
FIGS. 40 and 41 illustrate tightening of an encasement relative to
a mattress in a horizontal direction. FIGS. 5, 6, 7, 8a, 9a and 10a
illustrate different techniques for controlling the air flow from
the inflatable volume.
[0076] The principles of the present invention are applicable to
various mattresses including box springs and mattresses supported
by fixed foundations, such as box springs, as well as adjustable
platforms, as illustrated in FIG. 29. As shown in FIG. 29, for
example, the air pump 53 and conduit 49 are attached on one end of
the encasement. However it is to be understood that the nozzle and
air pump can be connected anywhere on the inflatable volume.
[0077] FIGS. 1c and 1d illustrate optional features of the
invention that may be incorporated into the encasements in the
various embodiments of the invention, discussed above.
Specifically, an optional air valve, such as a conventional valve,
for example, a conventional plastic air valve 49 with an optional
cap 51 attached thereto with a strap 53, may be integrated into the
encasement 30. Specifically, the air valve 49 may be attached
anywhere on the encasement 30 except for the inflatable volume. For
example, plastic valve may be attached to the top panel 32 or
bottom panel 34 or one of the side panels 36 or 38. The plastic
valve 49 facilitates removing air from the encasement 30 so that
the encasement 30 can be packed for travel for use on hotel and
motel mattresses. The plastic valve 49 allows air to be removed to
minimize the space the encasement 30 will take in a suitcase or
travel bag. The air may be removed manually or mechanically, for
example, by way of a vacuum cleaner.
[0078] After the encasement 30 is used on a hotel or motel
mattress, it is preferable to zip up the encasement 30, remove the
air, as discussed above, and transport the encasement in a zipped
up condition until the encasement can be laundered. This is done to
prevent mites, bed bugs, allergens, certain microbes, and the like
from the hotel or motel mattress from being released in a suitcase
or travel bag. A HEPA filter 55 (FIG. 1d) may be fixedly attached
to an interior or exterior surface of the encasement 30, for
example, the surface 46 as shown in FIG. 1d, to cover the airway of
the valve 49 to prevent bed bugs or dust mites or bacteria or
allergens picked up from the hotel or motel mattress from escaping
through the air valve 49.
[0079] Alternatively, the air valve can be omitted and a small
aperture formed anywhere on the encasement covered with a HEPA
filter may be used. The HEPA filter 55 can also be used with the
various adjustable air valves, for example, the air discharge
valves 83 and 85, as illustrated in FIGS. 9a and 9b, as well as the
air exit holes 67, illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, for example.
First Embodiment
[0080] As mentioned above, a first embodiment of the invention
which includes an integrally formed inflatable volume is
illustrated in FIGS. 1a, 2, 2a, 3, 4, 8-10, 11, and 29. Referring
first to FIG. 1a, the active encasement in accordance with the
present invention is shown and identified with the reference
numeral 30. The encasement includes a top panel 32, a bottom panel
34 and four side panels, generally referred to with the reference
numeral 36. One or more of the four side panels 36 include a zipper
40 or other conventional attachment means which define an upper
side panel portion 42 and a lower side panel portion 44. In
embodiments in which one, two or three side panels are zippered,
the un-zippered side panel 38 may be formed as a single piece and
connects the top panel 32 to the bottom panel 34 on the one
side.
[0081] Alternatively, only one side panel of the encasement may be
zippered, as illustrated in FIGS. 1e and 1f. Referring first to
FIG. 1d, an embodiment is illustrated in which a short side panel
of the encasement is zippered. FIG. 1f illustrates an embodiment in
which a long side panel is zippered.
[0082] Referring back to FIG. 1a, the top and bottom panels 32 and
34 are generally rectangular in shape and are configured to fit the
length and width of standard bed sizes. US standard mattress sizes
are provided below in Table 1. It is to be noted that the
principles of the invention are also applicable to non-US mattress
sizes, as well as non-standard sizes. As will be discussed below,
the principles of the invention also apply to mattresses having
different depths, even so-called "deep pocket" mattresses.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 US Standard Mattress Sizes Length .times.
width Length .times. width dimension dimension Common Term in
inches in centimeters Twin 39 .times. 75 99 .times. 190 X-Long Twin
39 .times. 80 99 .times. 203 Full 54 .times. 75 137 .times. 190
Queen 60 .times. 80 153 .times. 203 King 76 .times. 80 198 .times.
203 California King 72 .times. 84 182 .times. 213
[0083] The encasement 30 in accordance with the present invention
provides the standard protection for a mattress from spills,
allergens, parasites and/or stains but also provides additional
features which relate to the management of the mattress, as
discussed below. These features are provided by the novel
construction of the encasement 30, as discussed below.
[0084] The bottom panel 34 is configured to facilitate various
mattress management features without compromising the ability of
the encasement 30 to provide protection from stains and parasites.
Specifically, the bottom panel 34 includes an interior surface 46
and an exterior surface 48. The interior surface 46 is formed as a
slick surface while the exterior surface 48 is formed with an
integrally formed inflatable volume, generally identified with the
reference numeral 48 from an at least partially non-slick material,
generally identified with the reference numeral 47. In the first
embodiment the non-slick material 47 helps provide a frictional
grip between the encasement and the foundation or bed skirt while
the mattress is being rotated and during installation or removal of
the encasement, as discussed below.
[0085] Various materials can be used for the bottom panel 34 having
a slick interior surface 46 and the non-slick material 47. All of
these materials including the materials used for the balance of the
encasement 30 may be launderable. As used herein, the terms "slick"
and "non-slick" refer to their respective relative co-efficient of
friction. In other words, the present invention contemplates
materials in which the "slick" surface has a relatively lower
co-efficient of friction than the "non-slick" surface. Exemplary
materials are provided below. As used herein, the materials and or
coatings may be formed as a single layer or multiple layers.
[0086] The non-slick exterior material 47 of the bottom panel can
be created on one side of a slick material by way of a coating or
sewing or fusing a non-slick backing to one side of the non-slick
material. Other conventionally available materials are also
suitable for the bottom panel 34 having a slick interior surface 46
and a non-slick exterior material 47. For example, 70 Denier Heat
Sealable (backside) 100% Nylon Rip Stop material is suitable for
use for the bottom panel 34 other materials with similar
coefficients of friction with a coating on one side, for example,
urethane, silicone, or coated or bonded or sewn or fused thermal
plastic or heat sealable coatings. Alternatively, a non-slick
material can be used for the bottom panel 47 with a slick coating
or a fabric with a slick side and a non-slick side.
[0087] Such nylon or polyester rip stop material is known to come
in widths of 32''-104'' inches wide and weigh about 0.9-4.4 ounces
per square yard. Such material can easily be pieced together to
accommodate various mattress widths if necessary. Nylon or
polyester rip stop material suitable for use with the present
invention is available from various sources, such as, Quest
Outfitters of Sarasota, Fla. (http:/questoutfitters.com). Their
nylon taffeta material is described in detail at
http:/questouffitters.com/coated.html#HEAT_SEALABLE, hereby
incorporated by reference. Suitable nylon or polyester taffeta
material is also available from Rockywoods in Loveland, Colo.
(http:/www.rockywoods.com). Their nylon taffeta material is
described in detail at
http:/wvvw.rockywoods.com/Fabrics-Hardware-Patterns-Kits/Medium-
-Weight-Nylon-Fabrics/Heat-Sealable-70-Denier-Nylon-Taffeta, hereby
incorporated by reference.
[0088] Non-woven materials may also be used for the bottom panel 34
having a slick side and a non-slick side. For example, Tyvek.RTM.
polyethylene non-woven fabric, as manufactured by the DuPont
Corporation and described in detail at
http:/www2.dupont.com/Products and Services/en_VN/nwn.html may be
used. Other materials having two slick sides can also be used, such
as, silicone impregnated nylon rip stop, for example, as available
from Seattle Fabrics, Inc.,
http:/www.seattlefabrics.com/nylons.html. Other materials can also
be used with a coating applied to one side. Moreover, different
materials can be used for each cover in an application.
[0089] Various other materials with a slick side and a non-slick
side are also suitable for the bottom panel 34. For example, the
following exemplary materials may be used: [0090] warp-knit fabric
with a polyurethane laminate coating or a silicone coating. [0091]
a non-woven material with a polyurethane laminate coating or a
silicone coating. [0092] Tricot fabric with a polyurethane backing
or a silicone coating [0093] neoprene fabric with a polyurethane
backing or a silicone coating. [0094] ballistic nylon or polyester
fabric with polyurethane backing or a silicone coating. [0095]
polyester knit fabric with a polyurethane backing or a silicone
coating. [0096] cotton/polyester terry fabric with a polyurethane
backing or a silicone coating. [0097] jacquard knit fabric with a
polyurethane backing or a silicone coating. [0098] coral fleece
fabric with a polyurethane backing or a silicone coating. [0099]
microfiber/polyester knit with polyurethane backing or a silicone
coating. [0100] a stitch bond fabric with a polyurethane laminate
coating or a silicone coating. [0101] nylon or polyester rip stop
with a silicone coating on one side and a polyurethane coating on
the other side [0102] typical nylon or polyester ripstop with a
silicone coating on one side and a polyurethane coating on the
other side [0103] woven or non-woven fiberglass fabric with a
silicone coating on one side and a polyurethane coating on the
other side [0104] a stitch bond fabric, available from Tietex, item
no 944164, style no. C243, wherein the fabric is 32% rayon, 22%
polyester, 6% twaron and 40% coat. [0105] calendared nylon or
polyester rip stop with a silicone coating on one side and a
polyurethane coating on the other side [0106] calendared nylon or
polyester taffeta with a silicone coating on one side and a
polyurethane coating on the other side [0107] calendared suitable
fabric with a silicone coating on one side and a polyurethane
coating on the other side
[0108] Materials having a similar co-efficient of friction may also
be used. All such materials are considered to be within the broad
scope of the invention.
[0109] The following textile materials may also be used for the
various surfaces discussed above. These textile materials can be
used uncoated or coated on one or both sides as indicated below to
control the co-efficient of friction to create a slick surface or a
non-slick surface relative to the co-efficient of friction on the
opposite side.
70 DENIER.times.70 DENIER NYLON RIPSTOP
70 DENIER.times.70 DENIER POLYESTER RIPSTOP
70 DENIER NYLON & POLYESTER BLEND
70 DENIER NYLON TAFFETA
70 DENIER POLYESTER TAFFETA
30 DENIER POLYESTER OR NYLON RIPSTOP OR TAFFETA
210 DENIER OXFORD NYLON
210 DENIER OXFORM POLYESTER
210 DENIER NYLON & POLYESTER BLEND
NEOPRENE
BALLISTIC NYLON OR POLYESTER OR POLYESTER BLEND
WARP-KNIT FABRIC
POLYVINYL CHLORIDE (PVC)
POLYETHELENE SHEETING
POLYPROPOLENE SHEETING
NON-WOVEN FABRIC
OLEFIN
POLYOLEFIN
POLYETHYLENE (PE, LLDPE, HDPE)
STITCH-BOND FABRIC
COTTON BLEND
TERRY MATERIAL
TRICOT
NYLON COATED MATERIAL
POLYESTER COATED MATERIAL
PRESSURE SENSITIVE BACKED MATERIAL
LAMINATED MATERIAL
HIGH DENSITY & MOLECULAR WEIGHT POLYETHELYNE FILM
POLYETHYLENE VINYL ACETATE
[0110] The following materials may be coated, laminated, bonded,
impregnated, embossed, fused, layered between, or backed onto a
side of the textile material(s) to provide a relatively high
co-efficient of friction and thus may be used to provide a
relatively non-slick surface, relative to the opposite side.
POLYURETHANE
POLYVINYL CHLORIDE (PVC)
POLYETHYLENE VINYL ACETATE
THERMO PLASTIC
RUBBER
HEAT SEALABLE
WATER REPELENT
ACRYLIC
ADHESIVE
BLENDED COATING OF ANY OF THE ABOVE
[0111] UNCOATED or utilizing the inherently low friction
coefficient of an uncoated fabric
FOAM
SILICONE
BLENDED POLYMER
NYLON
POLYESTER
THEMOPLASTICS ELASTOMER (TPE)
[0112] The following materials may be coated, laminated, bonded,
impregnated, embossed, fused, layered between, or backed onto a
side of the textile material(s) to provide a relatively low
co-efficient of friction and thus may be used to provide a
relatively slick surface, relative to the opposite side.
SILICONE
TEFLON
PETROLEUM BASE
POLYURETHANE
DIRT WEAR RESISTANT
HEAT SEALABLE
BLENDED COATING OF ANY OF THE ABOVE
SLICK FIBER WOVEN INTO FABRIC
[0113] UNCOATED or utilizing the inherently low friction
coefficient of an uncoated fabric
BLENDED POLYMERS
NYLON
POLYESTER
THERMOPLASTIC ELASTOMER
POLYETHYLENE VINYL ACETATE
[0114] The top panel 32 defines an interior surface 52 and an
exterior surface 50. The interior surface 52 is formed with a
waterproof coating or membrane, for example, polyurethane or other
conventional waterproof coating. The exterior surface 50 is formed
from cotton or other common encasement material or a material
commonly used for mattress protectors, as well as conventional
bedding or launderable material, such as polyester or a
polyester-cotton. The waterproof membrane may be coated on one side
of the upper panel 32.
[0115] Various other materials can be used which are waterproof
and/or spill proof and/or, moisture proof and/or anti-bacterial
and/or anti-allergen and/or anti-microbial and/or anti-mite and/or
bed bug proof. For example, a bamboo knit fabric with a TPU or PU
lamination. Bamboo is naturally occurring anti-bacterial material.
The TPU or PU lamination provides waterproofing and anti-allergen,
anti-dust-mite, and anti-bed bug protection. Other fabrics with a
nano-silver finish with a TPU or PU coating. The nano-silver finish
is an non-allergic material. These materials can be used alone or
in combination with other materials disclosed herein.
[0116] Various configurations for the side panels 36 and 38 are
contemplated. For example, the side panels 36 and 38 may be formed
from the same material as the bottom panel 34 or the top panel 32
or alternatively from other materials, such as permanent
conventional or non-conventional bedding materials, for providing
stain and/or allergen and/or parasite protection. The side panel 38
may be integrally formed with the top panel 32 and/or the bottom
panel 34 or attached thereto by permanent conventional and/or
non-conventional means, such as by sewing and/or RF welding and/or
heat sealing and/or dielectric sealing and/or welding and/or
ultrasonic sealing and/or heat sealing and/or bonding and/or
utilizing adhesive and/or or weaving. The split side panels 36 may
be formed from the same material as the bottom panel 34 or top
panel 32. The side panels 36 are formed with an upper portion 42
and a lower portion 44 that are joined together by a zipper 40. The
upper and lower portions 42 and 44, respectively, may be formed as
a continuous strip that serves one or more side panels 36. The
upper portions are attached to the top panel 32 by permanent
conventional means, such as by sewing and/or RF welding and/or heat
sealing and/or dielectric sealing and/or welding and/or ultrasonic
sealing and/or heat sealing and/or bonding and/or utilizing
adhesive and/or or weaving. The lower portion is similarly attached
to the bottom panel 34. The upper and lower portions 44 and 42,
respectively, may be formed as part of the upper and lower panels
32 and 34, respectively. The zipper 40 may be attached to the upper
portion 42 and the lower portion 44 of the side panels 36 by
permanent conventional means, such as sewing and/or RF welding
and/or heat sealing and/or dielectric sealing and/or welding and/or
ultrasonic sealing and/or heat sealing and/or bonding and/or
utilizing adhesive and/or or weaving.
[0117] In order to facilitate installation of the encasement 30 on
a mattress or foundation, a zipper 40 is provided from corner to
corner, for example, on each of the zippered sides 36. The zipper
40 may be a conventional zipper that extends from one corner 54 on
one side to the corner 56 on the third side, as illustrated in
FIGS. 2 and 2a. The zipper 40 may be attached to the sides 36 by
permanent conventional and/or non-conventional means, such as by
sewing and/or RF welding and/or heat sealing and/or dielectric
sealing and/or welding and/or ultrasonic sealing and/or heat
sealing and/or bonding and/or utilizing adhesive and/or or weaving
and/or. As will be discussed in more detail below, the
configuration of the zipper 40 facilitates installation of the
encasement and also facilitates rotation of the mattress. As
mentioned above, the upper and lower panels may be oversized and
used without discrete side panels.
[0118] FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate a mattress encased with different
embodiments of an active encasement with an integral inflatable
volume 63. Both embodiments illustrate an encased mattress 30
removed from a foundation 60 covered by a bed skirt 62. The
inflatable volume 63 may be configured in various shapes and may
include a conduit 49 and an air inlet nozzle 51. The air inlet
nozzle 51 and the conduit 49 allow air from an external air supply
53 (FIG. 5) to be delivered to the inflatable volume 63. As best
illustrated in FIG. 11, in both embodiments of the invention, the
inflatable volume 48 is formed with a piece of material 53 attached
to the bottom surface 47 of the bottom panel 34 by various methods,
for example, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,246,706, hereby
incorporated by reference. One or more air exit holes, i.e.,
non-adjustable air valves, generally referred to with the reference
numeral 67, may be provided as well as one or more grommets or
attachment points 65, As shown best in FIG. 11, the grommet or
attachment point 65 is used to attach the material layer 53 to the
bottom panel 34 in one location. It is contemplated that the
grommet 65 may be omitted and alternatively multiple grommets or
attachment points may be provided. The grommets 65 may be used to
provide stability when the inflatable volume 63 is inflated.
[0119] As shown in FIG. 11, the arrows 71, 73 and 79 indicate the
direction of the air flow into the inflatable volume 48. The arrows
75 and 77 illustrate the air being discharged from the air holes
67. The air being discharged from the air holes 67. The difference
in air pressure between the air coming into the inflatable volume
and air exiting the inflatable volume creates a lift to cause the
mattress to lift relative to the foundation, as indicated by the
lift arrows 87.
[0120] More specifically, the lifting force provided is directly
proportional to the input air pressure to the inflatable volume
relative to the air pressure exiting the inflatable volume
multiplied by the area of the mattress. The lifting force directly
opposes the downward force of the mattress due to weight of the
mattress due to gravity. As such, the amount of lift of the
mattress can be varied by varying the pressure of the air exiting
the air discharge holes 67 and/or by way of the adjustable
valves.
[0121] Various techniques are available for varying the pressure of
the air exiting the air discharge holes 67. All but one of the
techniques discussed below illustrate adjustable type devices in
which the air pressure can be manually adjusted. One method of
varying the pressure is illustrated in FIGS. 5-7. In this method,
the pressure is varied by way of an air discharge valve 81 disposed
in series with the conduit 49 from the air supply pump 53. Opening
the air discharge valve 81 bleeds off air pressure from the air
supply pump 53, thus supplying lower pressure air to the inflatable
volume 63 (FIG. 11), thereby creating relatively less lift.
[0122] FIGS. 8, 8a, 9 and 9a illustrate alternate optional
adjustable air valves for varying the air pressure. FIGS. 8 and 8a
illustrate the use of a zipper 83 which may be integrated on the
material layer 53 (FIG. 11) as illustrated in FIG. 8. Similarly,
FIGS. 9 and 9a illustrate an alternate type of valve 85 which may
be juxtaposed on the material layer 53 (FIG. 11) as illustrated in
FIG. 9.
[0123] FIGS. 10 and 10a illustrate a non-adjustable method of
controlling the pressure of the air exiting the inflatable volume
48. In this embodiment, the pressure is controlled by selecting a
material with a porosity that provides the desired air
pressure.
[0124] Of course, the pressure inside the inflatable volume can be
controlled with one or more air discharge holes 67 (FIG. 11) in
combination with one or more of the techniques discussed above.
Alternatively, one or more of the techniques discussed above can be
used to control the pressure inside the inflatable volume 48. All
of such permutations and combinations are contemplated to be within
the broad scope of the invention. Moreover, the principles of the
present invention apply to embodiments with and without grommet(s)
or attachment point(s) 65.
[0125] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the
encasement 30 (FIG. 1A) can be configured so that the size of the
bottom portion of the encasement 30 is standard for all encasement
depths. In this embodiment, the size of the top portion of the
encasement 30 is formed to accommodate various encasement depths.
In such an embodiment, the encasement 30 may be zippered on all
four sides. The top portion includes the top panel 32 and the upper
portions 42 of all four side panels 36. The bottom portion includes
the bottom panel 34 and the lower portions 44 of all four side
panels 36. In this embodiment, the transverse length (normal to the
longitudinal length) of the upper portion 42 and the lower portion
44 of the side panels are not equal. The transverse length of the
lower portion 44 of the side panel 36 may be set to a standard
value. In order to accommodate encasements of different depths, the
transverse length of the upper portions 42 of the side panels may
vary as function of the overall depth of the encasement.
[0126] For example, a bottom portion of the encasement with a
transverse length of 4 inches may be used with 8 inch and 10 inch
encasements. For an mattress encasement with an 8 inch depth, an
upper portion 42 with a 4 inch transverse length is used along with
the 4 inch lower portion 44. For a 10 inch encasement, an upper
portion 42 with a 6 inch transverse length is used along with the 4
in lower portion 44. Thus, the bottom portion of the encasement 30
may be standardized for different encasement depths.
Installation of Bed Skirt and Encasement
[0127] In accordance with one aspect of the invention, FIGS. 12-17a
illustrate the installation of a bed skirt 62 over a foundation 60
and the installation of an encasement 30 over the bed skirt 62
carried by the foundation 60. Unlike known encasements,
installation and removal of the encasement 30 does not require
extensive lifting or flipping of the mattress 58, as discussed
above. In addition to facilitating installation and removal of the
encasement over a mattress 58 or bed skirt 62, the encasement 30
provides various mattress management features, such as: [0128]
Holding a bed skirt 62 in place while the encasement 30 is being
installed on the mattress 58. [0129] Holding a bed skirt 62 in
place while the mattress 58 is being rotated. [0130] Enabling the
mattress 58 to be more easily rotated without lifting the mattress
58. [0131] Enabling the mattress 58 to be easily installed or
removed to change and/or launder the bed skirt or the
encasement.
[0132] Turning first to FIG. 12, the mattress 58 is slid off the
foundation 60 and stood on one end, as illustrated. If desired, a
bed skirt 62 may be installed or removed over the foundation 60. An
important aspect of the invention is that the encasement 30 will
hold the optional bed skirt 62 in place while the encasement 30 is
being removed from or installed over the mattress 58. Once the bed
skirt 62 is installed as illustrated in FIG. 13, the encasement 30
is placed over the bed skirt 62. As shown in FIG. 14, the
encasement 30 is completely unzipped and the top cover 32 is
disposed on the floor adjacent one end of the mattress 58.
[0133] As shown in FIG. 14, the bottom portions 44 of the side
panels 36 are resting on top of the slick interior surface 46 of
the bottom panel 34. Prior to sliding the mattress 58 in place,
lower portions 44 of the side panels 36 are folded down over the
bed skirt 62 or alternatively, the foundation 60. Once the bottom
portions 44 of the side panels 36 are completely folded down, the
mattress 58 is slid in place over the interior surface 46 of the
bottom panel 34 of the encasement 30, as illustrated in FIG. 15.
The interior surface 46 of the bottom panel 34 is formed with a
slick surface to facilitate sliding the mattress 58 into place. The
exterior material 47 of the bottom panel 34 holds the encasement 30
in place over the bed skirt 62 or foundation 60 while the mattress
58 is being slid in place.
[0134] Once the mattress 58 is in place, the top panel 32 of the
encasement is placed over the top of the mattress 58, as shown in
FIG. 16. The encasement 30 is then zipped up by way of the zipper
40, as shown in FIG. 17.
Mattress Rotation-First Embodiment
[0135] FIGS. 18-21 illustrate a novel method of mattress management
which relates to rotating a mattress 58 with an encasement 30. As
mentioned above, mattresses can be relatively heavy and difficult
to rotate. Moreover, an encasement covers up the mattress handles
making it even more difficult to rotate the mattress. The novel
method for rotating a mattress with an encasement overcomes these
problems.
[0136] Initially, as shown in FIG. 18, the zipper 40 is unzipped
around all three sides 36. Once the zipper 40 is unzipped, the top
panel 32 is draped on the floor on one end, as shown in FIG. 19.
Next, as illustrated in FIG. 20, the lower portions 44 of the side
panels 36 (FIG. 19) are folded over the sides of the bed skirt 62
or alternatively the sides of the foundation in applications where
a bed skirt 62 is not used. Once the lower portions 44 of the side
panels 36 are all folded down, the mattress 58 can be rotated, for
example, 180 degrees, in a horizontal plane, as generally
illustrated in FIG. 21. This is done to even out mattress wear and
body impressions or indentations. In this application, the mattress
handles (not shown) are exposed to facilitate rotation. The slick
interior surface 46 (FIG. 1a) of the bottom panel 34 facilitates
rotation while the non-slick exterior surface 48 of the bottom
panel 34 holds the bottom panel 34 in place against the bed skirt
62 or alternatively, the foundation 60.
[0137] Once the mattress 58 is rotated in place, the top cover 32
is placed over the mattress 58, as shown in FIG. 16. The encasement
30 is then zipped up by way of the zipper 40, as shown in FIG.
17.
Second Embodiment
[0138] In an alternate embodiment of the invention, the inflatable
volume 163 is formed as part of a separate cover 166 (FIG. 1b). In
this embodiment, the encasement 130 is similar to the encasement 30
(FIG. 1a) except the encasement 130 does not include an inflatable
volume integrally formed on the exterior surface of the bottom
panel 34. Rather, in this embodiment, the exterior surface 147 of
the bottom panel 134 of the encasement 130 may be formed at least
partially as a slick surface or inherent coefficient of friction of
mattress bottom, coated or uncoated.
[0139] The cover 166 includes a generally rectangular panel 168
optionally configured to attach to the bottom panel 134 of the
encasement 30 and four (4) side panels generally identified with
the reference numeral 170, which may be formed from a stretchable
material. An inflatable volume 163 including a conduit 171 and an
air intake nozzle 172 are formed on an exterior surface 174 of the
rectangular panel 168. The cover 166 including the rectangular
panel 168, the side panels 170 and the inflatable volume 148 may be
configured, for example, as set forth above and disclosed in U.S.
Pat. No. 8,246,706, hereby incorporated by reference, except as
noted below. An interior surface 176 of the rectangular panel 168
is formed as a slick surface that is configured to cooperate with
the slick surface 147 formed on the exterior of the bottom panel
134 of the encasement 130. In addition, the side panels 170 may be
made from an elastic material, as set forth in the '706 patent or
alternatively a non-elastic material. The inflatable volume 163
including any exposed exterior surface 174 of the rectangular panel
138 may be formed as a non-slick surface as defined herein.
[0140] Alternatively, the cover 166 (FIG. 1b) as well as the cover
200 (FIG. 37) may be formed from a single bottom panel with no side
panels and attached to the encasement 130 with conventional
fasteners or not attached at all. The cover 166 includes an
inflatable volume, while the cover 200 does not. In these
configurations, the panels 166, 200 may be attached by conventional
means, such as Velcro, hook and loop, straps and/or buckle,
buttons, snaps, zippers or other conventional fasteners as
illustrated in FIGS. 31-37, 40 and 41. As used herein, the terms
"attach" or "attached" means the side panels of the cover 166 (FIG.
1b) are juxtaposed over the sides of the encasement 130 or
foundation 60 or bed skirt 62. Alternatively, "attach" or
"attached" means attached by way of conventional fasteners, for
example, as described herein.
[0141] The cover 166 and the encasement 130 may include
conventional or non-conventional attachment means for attaching the
cover 166 to the bottom panel 134 of the encasement 130 so that the
slick surface 176 of the panel 168 engages and is in contact with
the slick exterior surface 147 of the encasement 130. Virtually any
type of attachment means are suitable, such as snaps, buckles,
Velcro attachment or other conventional or non-conventional means
are suitable for attaching the cover 166 to the encasement 130.
Mattress Rotation-Second Embodiment
[0142] In a normal mode of operation (FIG. 24), the cover 166 (FIG.
1b) is attached to the encasement 130 so that the inflatable volume
163 is in contact with the bed skirt 62 or foundation 60 and the
slick surface 176 (FIG. 1b) of the cover 166 is in contact with the
bottom surface 147 of the encasement 130. In this mode of
operation, the side panels 170 of the cover 166 may be configured
to hide the zipper 140 on the encasement 130. Since the bottom
non-slick surface 174 of the cover 166 is in contact with the
foundation 60 or bed skirt 62, it will provide a friction grip to
hold the encased mattress 130 in place with respect to the
foundation 60 of bed skirt 62.
[0143] In order to rotate the mattress 58, as shown in FIGS. 22-24,
without removing the encasement 130, the cover 166 or the alternate
cover consisting of a bottom panel with no side panels, is detached
from the mattress 58 and the encasement 130 and folded down or
juxtaposed over the foundation 60 or bed skirt 62 defining a rotate
mode of operation, as illustrated in FIG. 22. In this mode of
operation, the slick surface 176 of the cover 166 will be in
contact with the bottom panel 134 of the encasement 130. The
encased mattress 58 can then be rotated in a horizontal plane, as
illustrated in FIG. 23, without removing the encasement 130 from
the mattress 58. After the mattress 58 is rotated, the cover 166
may be removed from the foundation 60 or bed skirt 62 and attached
to the encasement 130.
Third Embodiment
[0144] The third embodiment includes an encasement 130, as
illustrated in FIG. 1a and a separate cover 200. In this embodiment
of the invention, an encased mattress 58 can be rotated with an
encasement 130, as illustrated in FIG. 1a, without removing the
encasement 130. In this embodiment, a separate cover, for example,
a cover like the covers 20, 22, described in detail in US Patent
Application Publication No. 2013/0212809 A1, hereby incorporated by
reference, may be provided, for example, as an add-on device for
the encasement 130, as illustrated in FIG. 1a. The cover 200 (FIG.
37) includes generally rectangular panel with a non-slick surface
202 on one side and a slick surface 204 on an opposing side and may
include four side panels 206.
[0145] An alternate embodiment of the cover 200 is illustrated in
FIG. 1. and identified with the reference numeral 201. In this
embodiment, the cover 201 includes a rectangular panel 203 and four
(4) side panels 206. As shown best in FIG. 37a, the side panels 206
are extended and are folded over so as to overlap the underside of
the rectangular panel 203. In this embodiment, the rectangular
panel 203 may be made from a homogeneous material with no coatings
in which both sides are slick. Alternatively, the rectangular panel
203 can include a slick or non-slick coating on one side or be made
from a slick or non-slick material. Similarly, the side panels 206
may be made from another homogeneous material with no coatings in
which both sides are non-slick. Alternatively, the side panels 206
can include or non-slick coatings and may be made from slick or
non-slick material. The overlapping side panels 206 are fastened to
the underside of the rectangular panel 203 by stitching or other
permanent conventional means. By eliminating fabric coatings, the
cover 201 can be made much less expensively than the cover 200. The
cover 200 may alternatively include an inflatable volume similar to
the cover 166 (FIG. 1b).
Mattress Rotation-Third Embodiment
[0146] In a normal mode of operation (FIG. 39), the cover 200 is
attached to the outside of the encasement 130 so that the non-slick
surface 202 is in contact with the foundation 60 or bed skirt 62
and the slick surface 204 is in contact with the bottom surface of
the encasement 130. In a rotate mode of operation (FIG. 38), the
cover 200 is detached from the encasement 130 and attached or
juxtaposed over the foundation 60 or bed skirt 62. In this
configuration the bottom surface of the inflatable volume 63 is in
contact with the slick surface 204 of the cover 200. After the
mattress 58 is rotated in a normal position, the cover 200 can be
reattached to the encasement 130.
[0147] Mattress rotation with the cover 201, illustrated in FIGS.
37a, 37b and 37c, is the same as with the cover 200, illustrated in
FIG. 39. FIG. 37a illustrates the cover 201 in a normal mode of
operation. In this mode of operation, the cover 201 is attached to
the underside of the encasement 130. As shown best in FIG. 37a, the
non-slick extensions 207 of the side panels 206 on the underside of
the rectangular panel 203 will be in contact with the foundation 60
or bed skirt 62. In a rotate mode of operation, the cover 201 is
folded down and attached to the foundation 60 or bed skirt 62, as
illustrated in FIG. 37b. In this mode of operation, a slick surface
of the cover 201 will be in contact with the underside of the
encasement 130 (FIG. 1a), which may be formed with a slick surface.
In this configuration, the surface of the inflatable volume 63 will
be in contact with the slick surface of the cover 201 facilitating
rotation.
Fourth Embodiment
[0148] FIGS. 37d and 37e illustrate a fourth embodiment of the
invention. In this embodiment, similar to the embodiment
illustrated in FIGS. 37a-37c, is configured to reduce the need for
coatings on the material. Referring to FIG. 37d, an encasement 230
is illustrated. The encasement 230 is similar to the encasement 130
(FIG. 1b) and is configured to be used with a separate cover with
an inflatable volume, such as the cover 166, illustrated in FIG.
1b, or the cover 200 (FIG. 37a). Alternatively, the encasement 230
may have an integral inflatable volume similar to FIG. 1a.
[0149] This embodiment includes a top cover 232, side covers 236
and a zipper 240, as well as a bottom panel 247. Except for the
bottom panel 247, the encasement 230 is similar to the encasement
130, illustrated in FIG. 1b. In this embodiment, the bottom panel
247 may be formed from a homogeneous material with no coatings
having slick surfaces on both sides. As shown best in FIG. 37d, the
side panels 236 are formed to be extended so that the extensions
249 can be folded down over to overlap the underside of the bottom
cover 247 and attached thereto by stitching or other permanent
conventional means. In this embodiment, the side panels 236 are
formed from a non-slick material, and may reduce the need to
provide any coatings on the bottom panel 247.
Bed Making
[0150] The inflatable volume 63 (FIG. 1a) facilitates bed making,
as illustrated in FIGS. 25-28. In particular, with reference to
FIG. 25, the inflatable volume 63 is able to lift the mattress 58
with respect to the foundation 60 or bed skirt 62 to facilitate bed
making. In a normal mode of operation, the air supply 53 is off and
the encased mattress 58 sits firmly on the foundation 60 or bed
skirt 62. When the air supply 53 is turned on the encased mattress
58 is lifted, as illustrated in FIG. 25-28. In particular, in
response to air from the air supply 53 moving into the inflatable
volume 63, as indicated by the in-flow arrows 252, this causes the
optional inflatable volume 63 to expand, thus lifting the encased
mattress 58, as shown and indicated by the lift arrows 253. Excess
air is continuously vented through the adjustable or non-adjustable
air valves.
[0151] FIGS. 26-28 illustrate the bed making process. Referring
first to FIG. 26, a mattress 58 with an encasement 30 is shown
supported by a foundation 60 with optional bed skirt 62. As shown
in FIGS. 26-28, once the air supply 53 is turned on in an active
mode, the encased mattress 58 is lifted, as discussed above,
allowing a flat sheet 175 to be tucked between the encased mattress
58 and the foundation 60 or bed skirt 62, as best shown in FIG. 28,
thus facilitating making of the bed without requiring excessive
lifting of the mattress 58.
[0152] In embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 37a-37c, the side
panel extensions 207 (FIG. 37a) may be formed from a slick material
or material with a slick coating to facilitate tucking the sheets
between the mattress 58 and a foundation 60 or platform.
One Size Fits all
[0153] As mentioned above, although the length and width dimensions
of mattresses are standard, the depth dimensions vary considerably.
In order to reduce the number of encasements that need to be
manufactured, encasements are known to be manufactured to
accommodate several depths for each mattress standard length and
width size. A few commonly available encasements have depth ranges
as set forth below. [0154] 6-9'' depth [0155] 7-12'' depth [0156]
9-12'' depth [0157] 11-18'' depth
[0158] Unfortunately, depending on the actual mattress depth, such
encasements do not provide a snug fit. For example, a 6 inch depth
mattress will not fit very snug in an encasement made to fit
mattresses 6 to 9 inches thick.
[0159] In order to provide a snug fit for encasements relative to
the depth of mattresses and foundations, exemplary optional
adjustable devices, for example, straps 72-82 are illustrated in
FIGS. 31-37, respectively. Other adjustable devices are suitable.
These adjustment devices may be connected between the upper portion
42 and the lower portion 44 of the side panels 36, as shown in FIG.
30. The adjustment devices may also be provided on the fixed side
or un-zippered panel 38 (FIG. 1) to allow the encasement 30 to be
snugged up against the mattress. In addition, the side panels 36
and 38 may be pleated to allow the excess portions to be neatly
folded.
[0160] The straps illustrated in FIGS. 31-36 may be incorporated
with conventional and non-conventional encasements or alternatively
in combination with the novel encasements illustrated and described
herein. These adjustment devices may also be used to attach the
cover 166 (FIG. 1b) or cover 200 (FIG. 37) to the encasement 30
(FIG. 1a) or encasement 130 (FIG. 1b). All of such embodiments are
contemplated by the present invention.
[0161] FIG. 40 illustrates optional horizontal adjustment devices,
configured as straps, generally identified with the reference
numeral 86. These horizontal straps 86 can be used to snug the
encasement 30, 130 with respect to the mattress 58 in a horizontal
direction. The straps 86 may be disposed below the zipper 40. As
shown, Velcro.RTM. cinch type straps may be provided. Other
adjustment devices are contemplated for tightening the encasement
30, 130 relative to the mattress 58. For example, the straps 72-82,
discussed above, as well as button holes and buttons, or other
conventional adjustment devices may be used. It is also
contemplated that combinations of vertical and horizontal
adjustment devices can be used.
[0162] FIG. 41 illustrates and alternate embodiment of the
horizontal adjustment devices 86 in FIG. 40. In this embodiment, a
ring 88 is provided to enable the strap 86 to be looped there
through and tightened. Both embodiments, illustrated in FIGS. 40
and 41 may be used as horizontal adjustment devices, as shown,
and/or vertical adjustment devices.
[0163] Obviously, many modifications and variations of the present
invention are possible in light of the above teachings. For
example, materials for the covers and slick surfaces other than
those mentioned above can be which have similar co-efficient of
friction characteristics. Thus, it is to be understood that, within
the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced
otherwise than as specifically described above.
* * * * *
References