U.S. patent application number 15/428305 was filed with the patent office on 2017-11-30 for passive mattress encasement.
The applicant listed for this patent is LEVITATION SCIENCES LLC. Invention is credited to William John Scarleski.
Application Number | 20170340133 15/428305 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 60421222 |
Filed Date | 2017-11-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170340133 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Scarleski; William John |
November 30, 2017 |
PASSIVE MATTRESS ENCASEMENT
Abstract
A passive mattress encasement is disclosed 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 multiple side panels.
One or more of the side panels are zippered together. The
unzippered side panels, i.e., the panels without zippers, fixedly
connect the top panel to the bottom panel. The top and bottom
panels as well as the side panels may be made from 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
thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU/PU), silicone, or urethane to form
a waterproof membrane. In accordance with an important aspect 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 without affecting an
optional underlying bed skirt while the slick interior surface
facilitates rotation of the mattress. The present invention also
facilitates easy installation and removal of the encasement over a
mattress. Optional straps may be provided, fixedly attached to the
encasement. The straps allow the encasement to be snugged against
the mattress to enable the encasement to be used with a relatively
wide range of mattress depths perimeter lengths 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: |
60421222 |
Appl. No.: |
15/428305 |
Filed: |
February 9, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14046113 |
Oct 4, 2013 |
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15428305 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47C 31/105 20130101;
A47C 21/028 20130101; A47G 9/0238 20130101; Y10T 29/49817
20150115 |
International
Class: |
A47C 31/10 20060101
A47C031/10 |
Claims
1. An encasement for a mattress or foundation comprising: a
rectangular top panel defining an exterior surface and an interior
surface; a rectangular bottom panel having a slick interior surface
and a non-slick exterior surface; a fixed side panel connecting one
side of said top panel to one end of said bottom panel; a plurality
of side panels, each side panel defining an upper portion and a
lower portion, said upper portions connected to said upper panel
and said lower portions connected to said bottom panel; and a
zipper for connecting said upper portions to said lower
portions.
2. The encasement as recited in claim 1, wherein said top panel,
bottom panel and said side panels including said fixed side panel
are made from a launderable material.
3. The encasement as recited in claim 1, wherein said top panel,
bottom panel and said side panels including said fixed side panel
are made from encasement material or a material commonly used for
mattress protectors, as well as conventional bedding material.
4. The encasement as recited in claim 1, wherein said exterior
surface of said top panel is made from a launderable material and
said interior surface is formed from a waterproof material.
5. The encasement as recited in claim 1, wherein said upper
portions and said lower portions of said side panels are formed as
continuous strips.
6. A method for installing an encasement on a mattress supported by
a foundation, the method comprising the steps of: (a) removing the
mattress from the foundation; (b) placing an unzipped encasement on
the foundation so that an 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
foundation so that a bottom surface of the mattress is in contact
with an interior surface of the bottom panel of the encasement; (d)
placing the top panel of the encasement over a ytop surface of a
mattress; and (e) zipping up the encasement.
7. The method as recited in claim 6 further including the step of
installing a bed skirt after the mattress has been removed in step
(a) and placing the encasement on top pf the bed skirt so that an
exterior surface of the encasement is in contact with the bed
skirt.
8. A method for rotating a mattress encased by an encasement and
supported by a foundation, the method comprising the steps of: (a)
unzipping the encasement; (b) placing a top panel of the encasement
on the floor adjacent one end of the mattress; (c) rotating the
mattress 180 degrees; and (d) zipping up the encasement.
9. A method for rotating a mattress encased by an encasement and
supported by a foundation, the method comprising the steps of: (a)
attaching a cover having a slick side and a non-slick side to an
underside of the mattress encased by an encasement so that the
slick side is in contact with the foundation and the non-slick side
is in contact with the encasement; (b) rotating said mattress 180
degrees with respect to the foundation.
10. The method as recited in claim 9 further including step (c) as
follows: (c) detaching said cover from said mattress and attaching
said cover to said foundation so that said slick side is in contact
with said foundation and said non-slick side is in contact with
said encasement.
11. An encasement for a mattress or foundation comprising: a
rectangular top panel defining an exterior surface and an interior
surface; a rectangular bottom panel; a fixed side panel connecting
one side of said top panel to one end of said bottom panel; a
plurality of side panels, each side panel defining an upper portion
and a lower portion, said upper portions connected to said upper
panel and said lower portions connected to said bottom panel; a
zipper for connecting said upper portions to said lower portions;
and one or more straps coupled to said upper and lower portions of
one or more of said side panels in order to tighten the encasement
with respect to said mattress or foundation.
12. The encasement as recited in claim 11, further including a
cover having a slick side and a non-slick side for cooperating with
said encasement to allow a mattress encased with an encasement to
be rotated without removing the encasement, said cover configured
to be strapped to said encasement.
13. The encasement as recited in claim 1, further including a cover
having a slick side and a non-slick side for cooperating with said
encasement to allow a mattress encased with an encasement to be
rotated without removing the encasement.
14. A method for rotating a mattress encased in an encasement
supported on a foundation, the method comprising the steps of: (a)
unzipping the encasement and rotating the mattress on an interior
surface of a bottom panel of the encasement; and (b) rotating the
mattress.
15. A method for rotating a mattress encased in an encasement
supported on a foundation, the method comprising the steps of: (a)
attaching a cover having a slick surface and a non-slick surface so
that the slick surface is in contact with the foundation and the
non-slick surface is in contact with the encasement; and (b)
rotating the mattress.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/046,113, filed on Oct. 4, 2013, hereby
incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to a passive mattress
encasement which can be relatively easily installed over a mattress
supported by a box spring or fixed or adjustable platform
(hereinafter "foundation") which also facilitates rotation of the
mattress even in applications in which a bed skirt is installed
over the foundation and can accommodate a relatively wide range of
mattress depths.
2. Description of the Prior Art
[0003] Mattress encasements are used as a prophylactic cover over
the 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. As used
herein, the term encasement refers to mattress encasements and box
spring encasements individually and collectively. Examples of such
encasements are disclosed in US Patent Application Publication
Nos.: U.S. 2012/0260426; U.S. 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.
[0004] 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, by way of a polyurethane or other suitable
waterproof coating.
[0005] Because of the need for laundering, known encasements are
formed with a zipper along three sides forming a pocket on one end
to enable 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 box spring and the mattress
bottom or encasement bottom 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 bottom. The mattress is again flipped over so that the
mattress bottom 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 all three sides and the mattress is lifted to remove
the encasement.
[0006] 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 considering hotels and motels where multiple encasements
may be changed in a single day.
[0007] 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
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.
[0008] 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 of 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 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.
[0009] Thus, there is a need for an encasement that can easily be
installed or removed for changing or laundering and facilitates
rotation of the mattress to even out body impressions, even in
applications which include a bed skirt and can accommodate a range
of mattress depths.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] 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 unzipped side panels 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 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-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 (hereinafter "materials"),
or any combination of the above. The underside of the top panel and
optionally the inside of the side panels may be coated or embossed
with a waterproof layer or coating, such as polyurethane, to form a
waterproof membrane.
[0011] 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
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, over a mattress. 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. The
present invention also facilitates installation and removal of the
encasement over a mattress. Optional straps may be provided,
rigidly affixed to the encasement. The straps allow the encasement
to be snugged against the mattress to enable the encasement to be
used with a relatively wide range of mattress depths and perimeter
lengths and still provide a snug fit.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
[0012] These and other advantages of the present invention will be
readily understood with reference to the following specification
and attached drawing wherein:
[0013] FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of one embodiment of an
encasement in accordance with the present invention.
[0014] FIG. 1a is a bottom view of the encasement shown in FIG. 1
illustrating an optional air valve with an optional cap integrally
formed in a bottom panel of the encasement.
[0015] FIG. 1b is a section view along line 1b-1b of 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.
[0016] FIG. 1c 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.
[0017] FIG. 1d is similar to FIG. 1e but illustrating a zipper on a
long side panel.
[0018] 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.
[0019] FIG. 2a is an enlarged partial exploded view of one corner
of the mattress illustrated in FIG. 2.
[0020] FIG. 3 is an isometric view of a mattress covered with an
encasement, shown removed from the foundation.
[0021] FIG. 4 is similar to FIG. 3 except illustrating a bed skirt
covering the foundation.
[0022] FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a mattress and a foundation
illustrating one person removing the mattress from the foundation
covered with a bed skirt, shown with the mattress partially
removed.
[0023] FIG. 6 is similar to FIG. 5, but shown with the mattress
totally removed.
[0024] FIG. 7 is similar to FIG. 6, but illustrating a person
installing a bed skirt on a foundation.
[0025] FIG. 8 illustrates the bed skirt installed and an encasement
in accordance with the present invention laying on top of the
foundation, shown fully unzipped with a bottom panel in contact
with the foundation and the top panel on the floor at one end of
the bed and a lower portion of the unzipped side panel resting on
an inner surface of the bottom panel.
[0026] FIG. 9 is similar to FIG. 8 illustrating a person unfolding
a portion of the side panel that was resting on the inner surface
of the bottom panel so that side panel portions of the encasement
are folded down over the sides of the bed skirt.
[0027] FIG. 10 illustrates a person sliding the mattress on top of
the inner surface of the bottom panel of the encasement.
[0028] FIG. 11 illustrates a top panel of the encasement being
placed over the top of the mattress.
[0029] FIG. 12 illustrates an upper side panel portion and a lower
side panel portion being zipped together.
[0030] FIG. 13 illustrates the upper and lower side panel portions
of an encasement being unzipped in preparation for rotation of the
mattress.
[0031] FIG. 14 illustrates the top panel of an encasement removed
from the mattress and draped on the floor at one end of the
mattress.
[0032] FIG. 15 illustrates the lower side panel portions of the
encasement being folded down over the bed skirt.
[0033] FIG. 16 illustrates rotation of the mattress while the
encasement and bed skirt remains in place.
[0034] FIG. 17 illustrates the upper and lower side panel portions
being zipped together after the top panel of the encasement has
been re-positioned over the top of the mattress, as shown in FIG.
11.
[0035] FIG. 17a is an isomeric drawing of a single cover that may
be incorporated with the present invention.
[0036] FIGS. 17b-17d illustrate the process of rotating a mattress
using the cover illustrated in FIG. 17a.
[0037] FIG. 17e is an alternate embodiment of the cover illustrated
in FIG. 17a 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.
[0038] FIG. 17f is similar to FIG. 17d but shown in a position in
which the cover is flipped down over a foundation.
[0039] FIG. 17g is a bottom view of the embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 17e.
[0040] FIG. 17h is a cross-sectional view of an alternate
embodiment of an encasement.
[0041] FIG. 17i is a bottom view of the cover illustrated in FIG.
17h.
[0042] FIG. 18a is an isometric view of a first embodiment of an
optional adjustable belt and buckle for use on an encasement in
accordance with an alternate embodiment of the invention.
[0043] FIG. 18b is an isomeric view of the optional adjustable belt
and buckle installed in various locations of an encasement
installed on a mattress.
[0044] FIG. 19a is an isometric view of a second embodiment of an
optional adjustable belt and buckle for use on an encasement in
accordance with an alternate embodiment of the invention.
[0045] FIG. 19b is an isomeric view of the optional adjustable belt
and buckle illustrated in FIG. 19a installed in various locations
of an encasement installed on a mattress.
[0046] FIG. 20a is an isometric view of a third embodiment of an
optional adjustable belt and buckle for use on an encasement in
accordance with an alternate embodiment of the invention.
[0047] FIG. 20b is an isomeric view of the optional adjustable belt
and buckle illustrated in FIG. 20a installed in various locations
of an encasement installed on a mattress.
[0048] FIG. 21a is an isometric view of a fourth embodiment of an
optional adjustable belt and buckle for use on an encasement in
accordance with an alternate embodiment of the invention.
[0049] FIG. 21b is an isomeric view of the optional adjustable belt
and buckle illustrated in FIG. 21a installed in various locations
of an encasement installed on a mattress.
[0050] FIG. 22a is an isometric view of a fifth embodiment of an
optional adjustable belt and buckle for use on an encasement in
accordance with an alternate embodiment of the invention.
[0051] FIG. 22b is an isomeric view of the optional adjustable belt
and buckle illustrated in FIG. 22a installed in various locations
of an encasement installed on a mattress.
[0052] FIG. 23a is an isometric view of a sixth embodiment of an
optional adjustable belt and buckle for use on an encasement in
accordance with an alternate embodiment of the invention.
[0053] FIG. 23b is an isomeric view of the optional adjustable belt
and buckle illustrated in FIG. 23a installed in various locations
of an encasement installed on a mattress.
[0054] FIG. 24 is an isometric view of a bed shown with an
encasement encasing a mattress illustrating optional horizontal
straps to snug the encasement relative to the mattress.
[0055] FIG. 25 is similar to FIG. 24 and illustrates an alternative
embodiment of the horizontal straps illustrated in FIG. 24.
[0056] FIG. 26 is an isometric view of an alternate passive 6-sided
mattress encasement illustrating zipper start/stop positions shown
with expanded views illustrating alternate zipper stop
positions.
[0057] FIG. 26A illustrates a blow up of a corner of the encased
mattress, shown with the zipper stop spaced away from the corner of
the encasement.
[0058] FIG. 26B is similar but shown with the zipper stop located
at the corner of the encasement.
[0059] FIG. 27A is an isometric view of a 6-sided mattress
encasement illustrating a bottom panel formed from 2 layers
removed.
[0060] FIG. 27 B is an isometric view of the encasement illustrated
in FIG. 27A fully assembled but shown with the bottom panel on
top.
[0061] FIG. 27C is an isometric view of the fully assembled
encasement illustrated in FIG. 27B but shown right side up and
opened up.
[0062] FIGS. 28-30 are isometric views of an alternate embodiment
of the encasement illustrated in FIG. 26.
[0063] FIGS. 31-33 are isometric views of an alternate embodiment
of the encasement illustrated in FIG. 26.
[0064] FIGS. 34-36 are isometric views of an alternate embodiment
of the encasement illustrated in FIG. 26.
[0065] FIGS. 37-39 are isometric views of an alternate embodiment
of the encasement illustrated in FIG. 26.
[0066] FIGS. 40-42 are isometric views of an alternate embodiment
of the encasement illustrated in FIG. 26.
[0067] FIGS. 43-45 are isometric views of an alternate embodiment
of the encasement illustrated in FIG. 26.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0068] The present invention relates to a passive 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 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").
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 unzippered 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.
[0069] In alternative embodiments, the bottom panel may be 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 zipper directly to the bottom panel.
[0070] In accordance with an important aspect 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 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. 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] Four embodiments of the encasement are illustrated. FIGS. 1,
2, and 2a illustrate one embodiment of the encasement. FIGS. 1a and
1b illustrate an optional second embodiment. FIGS. 18a-23b
illustrate a third embodiment. FIG. 24 illustrates a fourth
embodiment. The features of all of the embodiments may be combined
to form an additional embodiment of the encasement. All of the
embodiments are suitable for use on a mattress or box spring.
[0072] In addition to the physical embodiments discussed above, a
novel method for installing the encasement on a mattress is
illustrated in FIGS. 5-12 while maintaining a bed skirt in place.
FIGS. 13-17 illustrate a novel method for rotating a mattress with
an encasement. FIG. 17a illustrates a modular component for the
encasement which provides additional mattress management
capabilities, as discussed below.
[0073] Referring first to FIGS. 1, 2 and 2a, a passive encasement
in accordance with the present invention is shown and identified
with the reference numeral 30. As shown, the encasement includes a
top panel 32, a bottom panel 34 and four side panels. In this
embodiment, three of the 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 or more of the four side panels are zippered together,
the unzippered side panel 38 may be formed as a single piece that
connects the upper panel 32 to the lower panel 34 on one side.
[0074] Alternatively, only one side panel of the encasement may be
zippered, as illustrated in FIGS. 1c and 1d. Referring first to
FIG. 1c, an embodiment is illustrated in which a short side panel
of the encasement is zippered. FIG. 1d illustrates an embodiment in
which a long side panel is zippered.
[0075] FIGS. 1a and 1b illustrate a second embodiment with an
optional feature of the invention. Specifically an optional air
valve, such as a conventional plastic air valve 49 with an optional
a cap 51 attached thereto with a strap 53 may be integrated into
the encasement 30. Specifically, the air valve may be attached
anywhere on the encasement 30, for example, the top panel 32 or
bottom panel 34 or one of the side panels 36 or 38. The valve 49
facilitates packing the encasement 30 for travel for use on hotel
and motel mattresses. The valve 49 allows air to be removed to
minimize the space the encasement will take in a suitcase or travel
bag. The air may be removed manually or mechanically, for example,
by way of a vacuum cleaner.
[0076] 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. 1b) may be fixedly
attached to an interior or exterior surface of the encasement, for
example, the surface 46, 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. Alternatively, the air valve can be omitted and a small
aperture formed anywhere on the encasement covered with a HEPA
filter may be used.
[0077] Referring back to FIGS. 1 and 2, the top panel 32 and bottom
panel 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 Common Term dimension in inches
dimension 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
[0078] The encasement 30 in accordance with the present invention
provides standard protection for a mattress from spills and/or
allergens and/or 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.
[0079] More particularly, the bottom panel 34 is configured to
facilitate various mattress management features without
compromising the ability of the encasement 30 to provide protection
from spills and/or allergens and/or parasites and/or stains.
Specifically, the bottom panel 34 includes an interior surface 46
and an exterior surface 48. The interior surface 46 is formed with
a slick surface while the exterior surface 48 is formed with a
non-slick surface.
[0080] Various materials described below can be used for the bottom
panel 34 having a slick interior surface 46 and a non-slick
exterior surface 48. All of the materials used for 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.
[0081] The non-slick exterior surface 48 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. Various
conventionally available materials are suitable for the bottom
panel 34 having a slick interior surface 46 on one side and a
non-slick exterior surface 48 on an opposing side. 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 are also suitable.
[0082] Such nylon or polyester rip stop material is known to come
in widths of 32-104'' inches wide and weigh about 0.9 to 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). Nylon
taffeta material is also suitable and is described in detail at
http:/questoutfitters.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:/www.rockywoods.com/Fabrics-Hardware-Patterns-Kits/Medium-Weight-Nyl-
on-Fabrics/Heat-Sealable-70-Denier-Nylon-Taffeta, hereby
incorporated by reference.
[0083] Non-woven materials may also be used for the bottom panel 34
having a slick interior surface 46 and a non-slick exterior surface
48. 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.
[0084] 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: [0085] warp-knit fabric
with a polyurethane laminate coating or a silicone coating. [0086]
a non-woven material with a polyurethane laminate coating or a
silicone coating. [0087] Tricot fabric with a polyurethane backing
or a silicone coating. [0088] neoprene fabric with a polyurethane
backing or a silicone coating. [0089] ballistic nylon or polyester
fabric with polyurethane backing or a silicone coating. [0090]
polyester knit fabric with a polyurethane backing or a silicone
coating. [0091] cotton/polyester terry fabric with a polyurethane
backing or a silicone coating. [0092] jacquard knit fabric with a
polyurethane backing or a silicone coating. [0093] coral fleece
fabric with a polyurethane backing or a silicone coating. [0094]
microfiber/polyester knit with polyurethane backing or a silicone
coating. [0095] a stitch bond fabric with a polyurethane laminate
coating or a silicone coating. [0096] nylon or polyester rip stop
with a silicone coating on one side and a polyurethane coating on
the other side [0097] typical plastic sheeting with nylon or
polyester rip stop with a silicone coating on one side and a
polyurethane coating on the other side [0098] woven or non-woven
fiberglass fabric with a silicone coating on one side and a
polyurethane coating on the other side [0099] 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. [0100]
calendared nylon or polyester rip stop with a silicone coating on
one side and a polyurethane coating on the other side [0101]
calendared nylon or polyester taffeta with a silicone coating on
one side and a polyurethane coating on the other side [0102]
calendared suitable fabric with a silicone coating on one side and
a polyurethane coating on the other side
[0103] Materials having a similar co-efficient of friction and
porosity characteristics may also be used. All such materials are
considered to be within the broad scope of the invention.
[0104] The following textile materials may also be used for the
various surfaces discussed above. These textile materials can be
used uncoated, coated, layered, bonded, laminated, embossed,
impregnated, backed, or etched 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. [0105] 70 DENIER.times.70 DENIER
NYLON RIPSTOP [0106] 70 DENIER.times.70 DENIER POLYESTER RIPSTOP
[0107] 70 DENIER NYLON & POLYESTER BLEND [0108] 70 DENIER NYLON
TAFFETA [0109] 70 DENIER POLYESTER TAFFETA [0110] 30 DENIER
POLYESTER OR NYLON RIPSTOP OR TAFFETA [0111] 210 DENIER OXFORD
NYLON [0112] 210 DENIER OXFORM POLYESTER [0113] 210 DENIER NYLON
& POLYESTER BLEND [0114] NEOPRENE [0115] BALLISTIC NYLON OR
POLYESTER OR POLYESTER BLEND [0116] WARP-KNIT FABRIC [0117]
POLYVINYL CHLORIDE (PVC) [0118] POLYETHELENE SHEETING [0119]
POLYPROPOLENE SHEETING [0120] NON-WOVEN FABRIC [0121] OLEFIN [0122]
POLYOLEFIN [0123] POLYETHYLENE (PE, LLDPE, HDPE) [0124]
POLYPROPYLENE [0125] STITCH-BOND FABRIC [0126] COTTON BLEND [0127]
TERRY MATERIAL [0128] TRICOT [0129] NYLON COATED MATERIAL [0130]
POLYESTER COATED MATERIAL [0131] PRESSURE SENSITIVE BACKED MATERIAL
[0132] LAMINATED MATERIAL [0133] HIGH DENSITY & MOLECULAR
WEIGHT POLYETHYLENE FILM [0134] POLYETHYLENE VINYL ACETATE
[0135] 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. [0136]
POLYURETHANE [0137] POLYVINYL CHLORIDE (PVC) [0138] POLYETHYLENE
VINYL ACETATE [0139] THERMO PLASTIC [0140] RUBBER [0141] HEAT
SEALABLE [0142] WATER REPELLENT [0143] ACRYLIC [0144] ADHESIVE
[0145] RAISED NUBS or PATTERN [0146] BLENDED COATING OF ANY OF THE
ABOVE [0147] UNCOATED or utilizing the inherently low friction
coefficient of an uncoated fabric [0148] FOAM
coated/laminated/bonded/impregnated/backing [0149] SILICONE
coated/laminated/bonded/impregnated/backing [0150] BLENDED POLYMER
coated/laminated/bonded/impregnated/backing [0151] NYLON
coated/laminated/bonded/impregnated/backing [0152] POLYESTER
coating coated/laminated/bonded/impregnated/backing [0153]
THEMOPLASTICS ELASTOMER (TPE)
coated/laminated/bonded/impregnated/backing
[0154] 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. [0155]
SILICONE [0156] TEFLON [0157] PETROLEUM BASE [0158] POLYURETHANE
[0159] DIRT WEAR RESISTANT [0160] HEAT SEALABLE [0161] BLENDED
COATING OF ANY OF THE ABOVE [0162] SLICK FIBER WOVEN INTO FABRIC
[0163] UNCOATED with an inherently low friction coefficient [0164]
BLENDED POLYMERS [0165] NYLON [0166] POLYESTER [0167] THERMOPLASTIC
ELASTOMER [0168] POLYETHYLENE VINYL ACETATE
[0169] The top panel 32 is formed with an interior surface 52 and
an exterior surface 50. The interior surface 52 may be formed with
a waterproof coating or membrane, for example, polyurethane or
other conventional waterproof coating. The exterior surface 50 may
be formed from cotton or other common encasement material or a
material commonly used for mattress protectors, as well as
conventional bedding or lauderable fabric, such as polyester or a
polyester-cotton. The waterproof membrane may be coated on one side
of the upper panel 32.
[0170] 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-dust 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.
[0171] 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 conventional materials, for providing
stain and/or allergen and/or parasite protection. The side panel 38
may be integrally formed with either the top panel 32 or the bottom
panel 34. The split side panels 36 define upper and lower side
panel portions 42 and 44, respectively, and may be formed from the
same material as the bottom panel 34 or top panel 32.
[0172] The upper and lower side panel portions 42 and 44,
respectively, may be permanently attached to the upper panel 32 and
lower panel 34, respectively, 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 weaving and/or may be formed as part of
the upper and lower panels 32 and 34. Moreover, the upper and lower
side panel portions 42 and 44, respectively, may be formed as a
continuous strip serving all three side panels 36. 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 weaving.
[0173] In order to facilitate installation of the encasement on a
mattress or foundation, a zipper 40 is provided from corner to
corner on each of the zippered side panels 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, for example. The zipper 40 may
be attached to the upper portion 42 and the lower portion 44 of the
side panels 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. 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 58.
[0174] FIGS. 17h and 17i illustrate an alternate embodiment of the
encasement 30, illustrated in FIG. 1. In this embodiment, the
encasement is configured to reduce the need for coatings on the
material. Referring to FIG. 17h, an encasement 230 is illustrated.
The encasement 230 is similar to the encasement 30 (FIG. 1) and may
be be used with a separate cover, such as the cover 66 (FIG. 17a)
or the cover 201 (FIGS. 17g-17i).
[0175] 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
30, illustrated in FIG. 1. In this embodiment, the bottom panel 247
may be formed 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. As shown best in FIG. 17h, 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. Similarly, the side
panels 236 may be made from another homogeneous material with no
coatings in which both sides are non-slick. Alternatively, the side
panels 236 can include non-slick coatings and may be made from
slick or non-slick material.
[0176] FIG. 2 illustrates a mattress 58 covered by an encasement
30, supported by a foundation 60. As shown, the zipper 40 is
partially unzipped. FIG. 2a illustrates the zipper extending to the
corner 56 of the encasement 30, for example.
[0177] FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate a mattress covered by an encasement
30, shown removed from a foundation 60. FIG. 3 illustrates an
application in which does not include a bed skirt 62. FIG. 4 is
similar to FIG. 3 but illustrates a bed skirt 62 covering the
foundation 60. As will be discussed in detail below, the mattress
management features provided by the encasement 30 in accordance
with the present invention work equally well whether or not a bed
skirt 62 is provided on the foundation 60.
[0178] In accordance with one aspect of the invention, FIGS. 5-12
illustrate the installation of a bed skirt over a foundation and
installation of an encasement 30 over a mattress 58 supported by a
foundation 60. Unlike known encasements, installation and removal
of the encasement 30 does not require extensive lifting of the
mattress 58, as discussed above. In addition to facilitating
installation and removal of the encasement over a mattress 58, the
encasement 30 provides various mattress management features, such
as: [0179] Holding a bed skirt 62 in place while the encasement 30
is being installed on the mattress 58. [0180] Holding a bed skirt
62 in place while the mattress 58 is being rotated. [0181] Enabling
the mattress 58 to be more easily rotated without lifting the
mattress 58. [0182] Enabling the mattress 58 to be easily installed
or removed to change and/or launder the bed skirt or the
encasement.
[0183] Turning first to FIG. 5, the mattress 58 is slid off the
foundation 60 and stood on one end, as illustrated in FIG. 6. If
desired, a bed skirt 62 may be installed or removed over the
foundation 60, as illustrated in FIG. 7. An important aspect of the
encasement 30 is that it will hold the optional bed skirt 62 in
place while the mattress 58 is being installed or removed or
rotated on top of the foundation 60, with or without a bed skirt,
and also while the mattress 58 encased in an encasement 30 is
rotated, as discussed below. The non-slick exterior surface 48
(FIG. 1) on the bottom panel 34 of the encasement 30 secures the
bed skirt 62 in place. More particularly, as illustrated in FIG. 8,
the encasement 30 is completely unzipped and placed on top of the
foundation 60 or bed skirt 62, as shown. The encasement 30 is
placed on top of the bed skirt 62 with the non-slick exterior 48 of
the bottom panel 34 in contact with the bed skirt 62. The top panel
32 of the encasement 30 is draped on the floor on one end of the
mattress. As shown in FIG. 8, the bottom portions 42 of the side
panels 36 are resting on top of the slick interior surface 46 of
the bottom panel 34. In applications without a bed skirt 62, the
non-slick outer surface 48 of the bottom panel 34 will be in
contact with the foundation 60.
[0184] As shown in FIG. 9, the bottom portions 44 of the side
panels 36 are folded down to be in contact with the bed skirt 62 or
alternatively, the foundation 60. Once the bottom portions 42 of
the sides 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. 10. The interior surface 46
of the bottom panel 34 is formed with a slick surface to facilitate
sliding the mattress 58 into place. The non-slick exterior surface
48 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.
[0185] Once the mattress 58 is in place, the top panel 32 of the
encasement 30 is placed over the top of the mattress 58, as shown
in FIG. 11. The encasement 30 is then zipped up by way of the
zipper 40, as shown in FIG. 12.
[0186] FIGS. 13-17 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 30 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.
[0187] Initially, as shown in FIG. 13, the zipper 40 is unzipped
around all three side panels 36. Once the zipper 40 is unzipped,
the top panel 32 is draped on the floor on one end of the mattress,
as shown in FIG. 14. Next, as illustrated in FIG. 15, the lower
portions 44 of the side panels 36 are folded down to be in contact
with the bed skirt 62 or alternatively the foundation 60 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 in a horizontal plane, for example, 180 degrees,
as generally illustrated in FIG. 16. This is done to even out
mattress wear and body impressions or indentations. In this
application, the mattress handles are exposed to facilitate
rotation. The slick interior surface 46 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.
[0188] Once the mattress 58 is rotated in place, the top cover 32
is placed over the mattress 58, as shown in FIG. 11. The encasement
30 is then zipped up by way of the zipper 40, as shown in FIG.
17.
[0189] In an alternate embodiment, various mattress management
features can be accomplished can also be accomplished with a
modular component; namely a cover 66, for example, as illustrated
in FIG. 17a-17d. The cover 66 may include a rectangular panel 68
and four side panels, generally identified with the reference
numeral 70. The cover 66 may be configured with the same length and
width dimensions as the encasement 30. One side 67 of the cover 66
is provided with a slick surface and an opposing side 69 of the
cover 66 is provided with a non-slick surface. The side panels 70
may be formed from a stretchable material to enable the cover 66 to
be held in place over a foundation 60 and optionally a bed skirt 62
or optionally a mattress 58 with an encasement. Alternatively, the
cover 66 may be formed without sides. A suitable cover is described
in detail in US Patent Application Publication No. U.S.
2013/0019411 A1, hereby incorporated by reference.
[0190] An alternate embodiment of the cover 66 is illustrated in
FIGS. 17e, 17f and 17g 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. 17e, 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 66. Alternatively, the cover 66 (FIG. 17a) as well
as the cover 201 (FIGS. 17e-17g) may be formed from a single bottom
panel with no side panels and attached to the encasement 30 (FIG.
1) by way of conventional or non-conventional fasteners, or not
attached. The covers 66 and 201 may be attached by way of
conventional means, such as Velcro, hook and loop, straps and/or
buckle, buttons, snaps, zippers or other conventional fasteners as
illustrated in FIGS. 18a, 19a, 20a, 21a, 22a, 23a, 24, and 25.
[0191] As used herein, the terms "attach" or "attached" means the
side panels of the cover 66 (FIG. 17a,), 201 (FIGS. 17e-17g) are
juxtaposed over the sides of the encasement 30 or foundation 60 or
bed skirt 62. Alternatively, "attach" or "attached" means attached
by way of conventional fasteners, for example, as described
herein.
[0192] In this application, in a normal mode of operation, as
illustrated in FIG. 17b, the cover 66 is attached over the
encasement 30 and over the zipper 40 so that the non-slick surface
69 of the cover 66 is in contact with the bed skirt 62 or
foundation 60 and the slick surface 67 of the cover 66 is in
contact with the encasement 30. In this mode of operation, the side
panels 70 of the cover 66 may be configured to hide the zipper 40
on the encasement 30. Since the non-slick surface 69 of the cover
66 is in contact with the foundation 60 or bed skirt 62, the
mattress 58 will not rotate.
[0193] In order to rotate the mattress 58 without removing the
encasement 30, the cover 66 or the alternate cover consisting of a
bottom panel with no side panels is detached if attached from the
mattress 58 and encasement 30 and attached or juxtaposed over the
bed skirt 66 or foundation 60 defining a rotate mode of operation.
In this mode of operation, the non-slick surface 69 of the cover 66
will be in contact with the foundation 60 or bed skirt 62. The
slick surface 67 of the cover 66 will be in contact with the
exterior surface 48 of the bottom panel 34 of the encasement 30, as
shown in FIGS. 17c and 17d. Even though the slick surface 67 of the
cover 66 is in contact with the exterior surface 48 of the bottom
panel 34, the slick surface 67 of the cover 66 will allow the
mattress 58 to rotate while the non-slick surface 69 of the cover
66 holds the bed skirt 62 in place over the foundation 60. The
mattress 58 can then be rotated 180 degrees, for example, in a
horizontal plane, as illustrated in FIG. 16, without removing the
encasement 30 from the mattress 58 while holding the bed skirt 62
in place. After the mattress 58 is rotated, the cover 66 may be
re-attached to the encasement 30, which is over the underside of
the mattress.
[0194] In embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 17e-17g, 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.
Alternatively, the side panel extensions 207 may be formed from a
non-slick material or coated with a non-slick coating one or both
sides. 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. [0195] 6-9'' depth [0196] 7-12'' depth [0197]
9-12'' depth [0198] 11-18'' depth
[0199] 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.
[0200] In order to provide a snug fit for encasements relative to
the depth of mattresses and foundations, exemplary optional
adjustable straps 72-82 are illustrated in FIGS. 18a-23a,
respectively. Other adjustable straps are suitable. These
adjustable straps are connected between the upper portion 42 and
the lower portion 44 of the side panels 36, as shown in FIGS.
18b-23b. The straps 72-82 may also be provided on the fixed side or
un-zippered side panel 38 (FIG. 1) to allow the encasement 30 to be
snugged up against the mattress. The side panels 36 and 38 may be
pleated to allow the excess portions to be neatly folded. The
straps 72-82 may also be used to attach and snug the cover 66 (FIG.
17a) to the encasement 30.
[0201] The straps illustrated in FIGS. 18a-23a may be incorporated
with conventional and non-conventional encasements or alternatively
in combination with the novel encasement 30 illustrated in FIG. 1
and described herein. All of such embodiments are contemplated by
the present invention.
[0202] FIG. 24 illustrates optional horizontal straps, generally
identified with the reference numeral 86. These horizontal straps
86 can be used to snug the encasement 30 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 means are contemplated for tightening
the encasement 30 relative to the mattress 58. For example, the
straps 72-82, discussed above, as well as buttonholes and buttons,
or other conventional means may be used. It is also contemplated
that combinations of vertical and horizontal straps can be
used.
[0203] FIG. 25 illustrates and alternate embodiment of the
horizontal adjustment devices 86 in FIG. 24. In this embodiment, a
ring 88 is provided to enable the strap 86 to be looped
therethrough and tightened. Both embodiments, illustrated in FIGS.
24 and 25 may be used as horizontal adjustment devices, as shown,
and/or vertical adjustment devices.
[0204] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the
encasement 30 (FIG. 1) can be configured so that a bottom portion
of the encasement 30 is standard for all encasement depths. In this
embodiment, a top portion of the encasement 30 is formed to
accommodate various encasement depths. In such an embodiment, the
encasement 30 is 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.
[0205] 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.
[0206] FIGS. 26-45 Illustrate alternate embodiments of the
invention. Turning first to FIG. 26, an alternate embodiment of a
passive 6-sided mattress encasement illustrating zipper start and
stop positions. As shown, a mattress encased by an encasement 200
is shown supported by a foundation 202. The encasement 200 includes
a zipper 204 shown partially open on one end.
[0207] FIG. 26A illustrates a blow up of a corner 208 of the
encased mattress, shown with the zipper stop 206 spaced away from
the corner 208 of the encasement. This allows an unzippered
encasement top 207 to be at least partially removed from the
mattress top to allow the mattress to slide relative to an interior
surface of the encasement bottom.
[0208] FIG. 26B is similar but shown with the zipper stop 210
located at the corner 208 of the encasement. The zipper 204 may
start and stop anywhere on the mattress encasement to allow a top
portion of the encasement 200 to be at least partially removed from
the mattress top so as to allow the mattress to be installed,
removed, moved or maneuvered with respect to the interior surface
of the bottom panel of encasement 200.
[0209] FIG. 27A is an isometric view of a 6-sided mattress
encasement 220 illustrating a bottom panel 230 formed from 2 layers
231, 232, shown removed. FIG. 27 B is an isometric view of the
encasement illustrated in FIG. 27A but shown fully assembled but
shown with the bottom panel on top. FIG. 27C is an isometric view
of the fully assembled encasement illustrated in FIG. 27B but shown
right side up and opened up.
[0210] Referring first to FIG. 27A, the passive encasement 220
includes an upper panel 222, a zipper 224, an upper side panel
portion 226 and a lower side panel portion 228. The bottom panel
230 is formed from 2 layers of material; a top layer 230 and a
bottom layer 232. The top layer 230 may be nylon ripstop or
silicone coated or impregnated nylon ripstop. The bottom layer 232
may be polyurethane coated polyester knit fabric material. An
interior panel surface of the top panel 230 material 231 may be
either slick or slick coated to facilitate mattress installation
and maneuvering. The exterior bottom panel 234 may of conventional
or non-conventional mattress protector material that is either
inherently non-slick or coated to be relatively non-slick relative
to the interior panel surface.
[0211] With reference to FIG. 27B, the 2-ply bottom panel 230
layers 231 and 232 may be stitched together along their perimeters.
The two or more layers 231, 232 making up the bottom panel 230 may
be attached together at least one point 236 within the perimeter of
at least one layer 231,232 of the 2-ply bottom panel 230. The two
or more layers 231 and 232 making up the bottom panel 230 may be
formed from 2 or more fabric layers at least partially attached
together along the perimeter of the fabric layers 231 and 232. The
layers 231 and 232 may be the same size and shape or may be of
varying sizes and shapes relative to one another.
[0212] As shown in FIG. 27C, the zipper 224 is shown along 3 sides
of the encasement. The zipper 224 may also be along 4 sides to
allow the top portion 222 to be removable.
[0213] FIGS. 28-30 illustrate an alternate embodiment of the
encasement illustrated in FIGS. 27A-27C. Specifically, FIG. 28 is
an isometric view of an embodiment of an encasement 240, shown with
its bottom panel 241 formed from 2 layers 242 and 244 removed. FIG.
29 is an isometric view of the encasement illustrated in FIG. 28
fully assembled but shown with the bottom panel on top. FIG. 30 is
an isometric view of the fully assembled encasement illustrated in
FIG. 28 but shown right side up and opened up.
[0214] With reference to FIG. 28, the bottom panel 241 may include
air vent holes 246 or air vent corner cut-outs 248 on either on one
layer 242 (as shown) or both layers 242 and 244. FIG. 29
illustrates an embodiment in which the corner cut-outs 248 are
provided on the layer 244 but not the layer 242. In such an
embodiment, the inside material layer 252 of the bottom panel 244
will be exposed through the cut out 248. FIG. 30 illustrates an
embodiment in which the air vent holes 246 and air vent cut outs
are provided on the inner layer 242.
[0215] FIGS. 31-33 illustrate an alternate embodiment of the
encasement illustrated in FIGS. 27A-27C. Specifically, FIG. 31 is
an isometric view of an embodiment of an encasement 260, shown with
its bottom panel 261 formed from 2 layers 263 and 264 removed. FIG.
32 is an isometric view of the encasement 260 illustrated in FIG.
31 fully assembled but shown with the bottom panel 261 on top. FIG.
33 is an isometric view of the fully assembled encasement
illustrated in FIG. 32 but shown right side up and opened up.
[0216] Referring to FIG. 31, a top surface of the layer 262 may be
formed from a non-slick material or a non-slick coated material or
may be the same material as the layer 264 or any other part of the
encasement 260. Referring to FIGS. 32 and 33, an optional stitch
pattern 266 may define an inflatable volume or may be within the
perimeter of the inflatable volume.
[0217] FIGS. 34-36 illustrate an alternate embodiment of the
encasement illustrated in FIGS. 27A-27C. Specifically, FIG. 34 is
an isometric view of an embodiment of an encasement 280, shown with
its bottom panel 281 formed from 2 layers 283 and 284 removed. FIG.
35 is an isometric view of the encasement 250 illustrated in FIG.
34 fully assembled but shown with the bottom panel 281 on top. FIG.
36 is an isometric view of the fully assembled encasement
illustrated in FIG. 34 but shown right side up and opened up.
[0218] Referring first to FIG. 34, the top surface 282 of the layer
283 may be formed from a slick material or have a slick coating. A
top surface 285 of the bottom layer 284 may be TPU coated poly knit
material. The bottom surface 287 of the bottom layer 283 may be
formed with a poly knit fabric or formed with a non-slick surface
or may be the same material as the sides and/or any surface of the
encasement.
[0219] FIGS. 37-39 illustrate an alternate embodiment of the
encasement illustrated in FIGS. 27A-27C. Specifically, FIG. 37 is
an isometric view of an embodiment of an encasement 300, shown with
its bottom panel 301 formed from 2 layers 303 and 304 removed. FIG.
38 is an isometric view of the encasement 300 illustrated in FIG.
37 fully assembled but shown with the bottom panel 301 on top. FIG.
39 is an isometric view of the fully assembled encasement
illustrated in FIG. 37 but shown right side up and opened up.
[0220] Referring to FIG. 37, the surface 302 of the top layer 303
may be coated with a slick material or coated with a slick
material. The surface 307 of the layer 304 may be an inherent
typical encasement outer fabric layer. As illustrated in FIGS. 38
and 39, an optional attachment point 309 may be provided that
connects both layers 303 and 304 of the bottom panel 301.
[0221] FIGS. 40-42 illustrate an alternate embodiment of the
encasement illustrated in FIGS. 27A-27C. Specifically, FIG. 40 is
an isometric view of an embodiment of an encasement 310, shown with
its bottom panel 311 formed from 2 layers 313 and 314 removed. FIG.
41 is an isometric view of the encasement 310 illustrated in FIG.
40 fully assembled but shown with the bottom panel 311 on top. FIG.
39 is an isometric view of the fully assembled encasement
illustrated in FIG. 41 but shown right side up and opened up.
[0222] Referring to FIG. 40, one or more vent holes 321 or corner
cut-outs 323 may be provided on one or both of the layers 313 and
314 to allow water to drain upon washing. FIGS. 41 and 42
illustrate an embodiment in which the cut-outs 323 are only
provided on the bottom layer 314. FIGS. 41 and 42 also illustrate
an optional; attachment point 319 which may be formed from any
stitch or attachment means.
[0223] FIGS. 43-45 illustrate an alternate embodiment of the
encasement illustrated in FIGS. 27A-27C. Specifically, FIG. 43 is
an isometric view of an embodiment of an encasement 330, shown with
its bottom panel 331 formed from 2 layers 333 and 334 removed. FIG.
44 is an isometric view of the encasement 330 illustrated in FIG.
43 fully assembled but shown with the bottom panel 331 on top. FIG.
45 is an isometric view of the fully assembled encasement
illustrated in FIG. 43 but shown right side up and opened up.
[0224] A surface 332 on the top layer 333 may be formed from a
non-slick material or coated with a non-slick coating or may be the
same material as the layer 334 or any other part of the encasement.
The bottom panel 334 may be formed with an optional stitch pattern
336.
[0225] 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.
[0226] What is claimed and desired to be secured by a Letters
Patent of the United States is:
* * * * *
References