Attachment Mechanisms and Methods for an Absorbent Cover

Abstract

A system includes an exercise mat and an absorbent cover for the exercise mat. The absorbent cover is at least partially formed from a liquid absorbing material. Attachment mechanisms affixed to the absorbent cover engage with attachment mechanisms affixed to the exercise mat to attach the absorbent cover to the exercise mat.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

The present disclosure is a non-provisional of and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/160,214 filed on May 12, 2015, and entitled “Attachment System for Adhesion of Absorbent Towels to Exercise Mats/Work Pads”, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

The present disclosure is generally related to attachment mechanisms for an absorbent cover for an exercise mat.

BACKGROUND

The popularity of body weight exercises that combine strength, flexibility, and coordination has rapidly grown over the last decade. Traditional sports such as running, cycling, resistance training, and swimming have long been common forms of exercise. More recently, however, people wanting to stay in shape have embraced a more cross-functional means to achieve and maintain a desired level of fitness that combines physical as well as mental health, choosing to incorporate flexibility and mindfulness as a quintessential aspect of their training regimen.

For example, yoga and Pilates, which incorporate aspects of physical and mental health training, are rapidly growing in popularity. The physical benefits of yoga are known to increase strength and flexibility. The mental benefits of yoga include relaxing the mind through breathing exercises while holding certain physically demanding poses. As a result, people participating in such activities on a regular basis can benefit from increased strength, flexibility, mental wellness, and balance. Various forms of Pilates and most forms of yoga utilize mats, which provide a soft surface for the various poses.

During such activities, the physical demand of balancing while holding various poses for minutes at a time, can cause participants to perspire onto the mats, causing the mats to become slippery, which can increase the likelihood of injury. Since the mats are generally non-absorbent, participants often lay absorbent towels over the mat to reduce the risk of falling from slipping.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments, a system may include an absorbent cover for an exercise mat. The absorbent cover is at least partially formed from a liquid absorbing material. Attachment mechanisms may be affixed to the absorbent cover engage with corresponding attachment mechanisms affixed to the exercise mat to releasably secure the absorbent cover to the exercise mat.

In other embodiments, a system may include an exercise mat that can be formed at least partially from a cushioning material. The exercise mat may include at least one attachment mechanism configured to engage corresponding attachment mechanisms affixed to an absorbent cover to secure the absorbent cover to the exercise mat.

In still other embodiments, a method for attaching an absorbent cover to a mat may include affixing first attachment mechanisms to the absorbent cover. The method may also include affixing second attachment mechanisms to the mat. The method may further include coupling the first attachment mechanisms to the second attachment mechanisms to releasably secure the absorbent cover to the mat.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features of this disclosure, both with respect to the structure and operation of the mat and corresponding cover, can best be understood from the accompanying drawings, taken in conjunction with the accompanying description, in which reference characters may be re-used to refer to similar parts.

FIG. 1A is a diagram of an apparatus including an absorbent cover coupled to a mat by a plurality of attachment mechanisms, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1B is an exploded perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 1A, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are diagrams of an apparatus including an absorbent cover that may be coupled to a mat by a plurality of attachment mechanisms, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are diagrams of an apparatus including a mat may be attached to an absorbent cover by a plurality of attachment mechanisms, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4A is a diagram of an apparatus including an absorbent cover that may be attached to a mat using a plurality of attachment mechanisms, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4B is a diagram of the engagement of attachment mechanisms of FIG. 4A, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 5A and 5B depict a magnetic snap type of attachment mechanism, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a diagram of an apparatus including an absorbent cover that may be attached to a mat, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a diagram of an apparatus including a mat and an absorbent cover, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a diagram of an apparatus including an absorbent cover and a mat, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 9A and 9B are diagrams of an apparatus including an absorbent cover and a mat, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C are diagrams of an apparatus including covers and mats, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a diagram of an apparatus including an absorbent cover that may be attached to a mat using a plurality of attachment mechanisms, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 depicts a flow diagram of a method of forming an apparatus, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

In the following discussion, the same reference numbers are used in the various embodiments to indicate the same or similar elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

In some embodiments, an absorbent cover may include one or more attachment mechanisms that may be configured to engage corresponding attachment mechanisms of a mat. In an example, the absorbent cover can be removably attached to the mat by one or more attachment mechanisms during use such that the absorbent cover absorbs perspiration and is held in place by the attachment mechanisms. In some embodiments, the absorbent cover may be decoupled from the mat, for example, to wash the absorbent Cover.

In some embodiments, the absorbent cover and mat can have the same or similar size and shape. In some embodiments, one or more attachment mechanisms can be affixed to the absorbent cover and can be positioned to be substantially aligned with the positions of corresponding attachment features or mechanisms affixed to the mat. When brought into proximity or contact, the attachment mechanisms of the absorbent cover and mat may automatically engage to secure the absorbent cover to the mat. In some embodiments, the attachment mechanisms may be permanently affixed to the absorbent cover, the mat, or any combination thereof. In other embodiments, some or all of the attachment mechanisms may be removably or temporarily affixed to the absorbent cover, the mat, or any combination thereof.

Examples of attachment mechanisms may include, but are not limited to, riveted snaps, riveted magnetic snaps, sewn buttons, sewn snaps, sewn magnetic snaps, hook and eye fabric, magnetic strips, metal/magnet rivets, zippers, other elements, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the attachment mechanisms may be located at a plurality of points around the edge of the absorbent cover and mat. For example, one or more attachment mechanisms may be coupled to the mat and corresponding attachment mechanisms may be coupled to corresponding locations about the periphery or edges of the absorbent cover. The attachment mechanisms on the absorbent cover may engage corresponding attachment mechanisms associated with the mat to releasably secure the cover to the mat. An example of an apparatus including an absorbent cover coupled to a mat is described below with respect to FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1A is a diagram of an apparatus 100 including an absorbent cover 102 coupled to a mat 104 in an unrolled configuration on a supporting surface, such as the ground or floor 106. The absorbent cover 102 includes a first side (side A 108) and a second side (side B 110). The mat includes 104 a first side (side A 112) and a second side (side B 114). In the illustrated view, the absorbent cover 102 includes attachment mechanisms 116 and 118 positioned adjacent to the second side (side B) 110, and the mat 104 includes attachment mechanisms 120 and 122 positioned adjacent to the first side (side A) 112. The attachment mechanisms 116 and 118 may be affixed or secured, at least in part to the second side (side B) 110 of the absorbent cover 102 and configured to align with and couple to the attachment mechanisms 120 and 122, respectively, which can be affixed or secured at least in part to side A 112 of the mat 104.

In some embodiments, the attachment mechanisms 116 and 118 associated with the absorbent cover 102 may be aligned with the attachment mechanisms 120 and 122 of the mat 104. The attachment mechanisms 120 and 122 may be magnetic, while the attachment mechanisms 116 and 118 may be formed from metal. The magnetic fields provided by the attachment mechanism 120 and 122 may attract the attachment mechanism 116 and 118 to secure and align the absorbent cover 102 to the mat 104. In addition, such an embodiment may allow for thorough cleaning of the absorbent cover 102, for example, when machine washed. In contrast, if attachment mechanisms 116 and 118 are magnets, the magnets may attach to the drum of a washing machine. In such a case, the absorbent cover 102 may be prevented from turning in the wash so that the absorbent cover 102 may not be as thoroughly cleaned.

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the apparatus 100 before the absorbent cover 102 is coupled to the mat 104. In addition to the attachment mechanisms 116-120 in FIG. 1A, FIG. 1B depicts additional attachment mechanisms 124 and 126 on the absorbent cover 102 and attachment mechanisms 128 and 130 on the mat 104. As illustrated, the attachment mechanisms 116, 118, 124, and 126 on side B 110 of the absorbent cover 102 can couple to the attachment mechanisms 120, 122, 128, and 130 on side A 112 of the mat 104 when the absorbent cover 102 is placed on top of the mat 104.

In the illustrated example of FIG. 1B, the absorbent cover 102 may be coupled to the surface of side A 112 of the mat 104, which may be impermeable to water. In some embodiments, the mat 104 may be a yoga mat, other sports mat, or work pad such as those including closed or open-cell foam, for use during yoga, Pilates, or other sporting exercises or stretches. Further, the surface 106 can be any type of flooring material, a table or other furniture, the ground, or any other type of supporting surface.

The dimensions of the absorbent cover 102 may vary. The absorbent cover 102 may be sized to be substantially similar to the surface to which the absorbent cover 102 is to be attached. In some embodiments, the absorbent cover 102 may have dimensions of approximately twenty-four (24) inches by sixty-eight (68) inches, which may be the approximate dimensions of a standard-sized yoga mat. Additionally, the absorbent cover 102 may have dimensions of approximately twenty-four (24) inches by seventy-two (72) inches or approximately twenty-six (26) inches by seventy-two (72) inches, which are the approximate dimensions of extra-long yoga mats and some premium yoga mats, respectively. However, the absorbent cover 102 may have dimensions that are larger or smaller than these types of yoga mats and may have dimensions selected to fit other sizes of mats. For example, the absorbent cover 102 can be sized for use as a washcloth, a hand towel, a beach towel, a bath towel, a bath mat, a dish towel, a gym towel, a golf towel or other sport towel, a drop cloth, a throw rug, a baby-changing mat, another type of towel, or any combination thereof.

Further, although the absorbent cover 102 is discussed herein in the context of a non-clothing item, the absorbent cover 102 may be used in other applications where absorbency is beneficial. For example, the absorbent cover 102 may be incorporated into or manufactured for use as clothing, such as a bathrobe, a shirt, pants, a hat, a scarf, socks, or any other suitable clothing or non-clothing item. With this design, any moisture such as perspiration, precipitation or incidental moisture can be absorbed b the absorbent cover 102.

The absorbent cover 102 may be formed from relatively absorbent materials that can vary from implementation to implementation. For instance, the absorbent cover 102 may include any absorbent natural fibers or fabrics, such as cotton, silk, wool, hemp, other natural materials, or any combination thereof. Further, the absorbent cover 102 may include synthetic materials such as acrylics, polyester, microfiber, nylon, rayon, other materials, or any combination thereof. The microfiber material can be made from polyesters, polyamides (e.g., nylon, Kevlar, Nomex, trogamide), or a combination of polyester, polyamide, polypropylene (Prolen), other material, or any combination thereof. The shape, size, and combinations of synthetic fibers can be selected for specific characteristics, including softness, toughness, absorption, water repellency, and so on. In some embodiments, the absorbent cover 102 may include both synthetic materials and natural materials.

Further, the absorbent cover 102 may have a wide range of thicknesses, weights, and densities depending upon the desired absorbency and intended usage of the absorbent cover 102. The absorbent cover 102 may also include different colored materials as well as different color patterns, images and the like. Additional discussion of example appearances of the absorbent cover 102 is provided below with regard to FIGS. 2A and 2B.

The dimensions of the mat 104 may vary. In some embodiments, the mat 104 may have dimensions of approximately twenty-four (24) inches by sixty-eight (68) inches, which are the approximate dimensions of a standard sized yoga mat. Additionally, the mat 104 may have dimensions of approximately twenty-four (24) inches by seventy-two (72) inches or approximately twenty-six (26) inches by seventy-two (72) inches, which are the approximate dimensions of extra-long yoga mats and some premium yoga mats, respectively. In some examples, the mat 104 may have other sizes, which may be larger or smaller than these types of yoga mats or may be sized for other types of mats. The mat 104 may be sized to be substantially similar to the surface upon which the mat 104 is placed or may be sized based on various other considerations. For example, the mat 104 can be sized for use with a gym pad, Pilates mat, mechanic's work mat, kitchen mat, a baby changing mat, or another type of mat.

The mat 104 may be formed from relatively non-absorbent materials depending on the implementation. For instance, the mat 104 can include any material with cushioning properties such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) foam, nibber, cork, polyurethane, latex, other material, or any combination of suitable materials, as non-limiting examples. Further, the mat 104 can have a wide range of thicknesses, weights and densities depending upon the amount of cushioning desired and the intended usage. The mat 104 can also include different colored materials, different colored patterns, images and the like. Additional discussion of example appearances of the mat 104 is provided below with regard to FIGS. 3A and 3B

Embodiments are not limited to the illustrated system. For example, the absorbent cover 102 and mat 104 may be reversible and each may include attachment mechanisms on both side A and side B. In another example, the attachment mechanisms may be affixed to the absorbent cover 102 and mat 104 such that one or more portions of the attachment mechanisms are visible on both sides of absorbent cover 102 and mat 104 (e.g. affixed by rivets that pierce through absorbent cover 102 or the mat 104). Moreover, while the embodiments illustrated and described herein show the absorbent cover 102 and mat 104 being coupled by the attachment mechanisms around the perimeter edge of the absorbent cover 102 and mat 104, embodiments are not so limited. In addition, attachment mechanisms utilized in embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein are not limited to those listed. Rather, embodiments according to this disclosure may utilize any attachment mechanism known to one of ordinary skill in the art for securing the cover 102 to the mat 104.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are diagrams of apparatuses 200 and 210 in which absorbent covers 202 and 212 may be attached to a mat by a plurality of attachment mechanisms. FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate embodiments in which sides A 204 and 214 of the absorbent covers 202 and 212 include focal regions 206 and 216, respectively. In some embodiments, the focal regions 206 and 216 may be related to the usage of the mat to which the absorbent cover is to be attached. As illustrated, focal regions 206 and 216 may have a color, geometric shape, or pattern that is different from other portions of the absorbent covers 202 and 212. With this design, an individual performing yoga, martial arts or other sporting activities can focus his or her attention on the focal region to assist with concentration and focus during participation in such exercises. The focal regions 206 and 216 may be formed from the same material used to form the remainder of the absorbent cover, or the focal regions 206 and 216 can be formed from a different material.

In the illustrated example of FIG. 2A, the focal region 206 is a circle; however, other shapes are possible, such as a foot print or hand print indicating a position or placement of a part of the user's body for an intended exercise. In some examples, the focal region 206 may be sized small enough to allow the user to focus on the focal region 206 without substantial movement of the user's eyes during exercise. For example, the focal region 206 can be between approximately 1.0 centimeter and 6.0 centimeters in diameter. However, the focal region 206 may be of various sizes and located at various positions on the absorbent cover.

In the illustrated example of FIG. 2B, the focal region 216 includes a configuration of lines and a geometric shape. In some embodiments, focal region 216 and similar focal regions may allow the user to focus on proper alignment of the feet and hands during exercise without substantial movement of the user's eyes during exercise. However, the size and relative location of the focal region 216 may vary.

Other embodiments are also possible. For example, the focal regions 206 and 216 may have other configurations (e.g., rectangular, triangular, linear, oval, or another geometric shape). Further, various shapes, patterns and colors may be used in combination to help to capture the user's focus when exercising or stretching.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are diagrams of apparatuses 300 and 310 in which mats 302 and 312 may be attached to an absorbent cover by a plurality of attachment mechanisms. In this example, sides A 304 and 314 of the mats 302 and 312, respectively, include focal regions 306 and 316. In some embodiments, the focal regions 306 and 316 may be related to the usage of the mat. As illustrated, the focal regions 306 and 316 may have a color, geometric shape, or pattern that is different from other portions of the mats 302 and 312. With this design, an individual performing yoga, martial arts or other sporting or stretching activities can focus his or her attention on the focal regions 306 and 316 to assist with concentration or focus during participation in such exercises. The focal regions 306 and 316 can be formed from the same material used to form the remainder of the mats 302 and 312, or the focal regions 306 and 316 can be formed from a different material.

In the illustrated example of FIG. 3A, the focal region 306 is a circle; however, other shapes are possible, such as a foot print or hand print indicating a position or placement of a part of the user's body for an intended exercise. In some example, the focal region 306 may be sized small enough to allow the user to focus on the focal region 306 without substantial movement of the user's eyes during exercise. For example, the focal region 306 may be between approximately 1.0 centimeter and 6.0 centimeters in diameter. However, the focal region 306 may be of various sizes and located at various positions on the mat 302.

In the illustrated example of FIG. 3B, the focal region 316 is a configuration of lines. In some embodiments, focal region 316 and similar focal regions may allow the user to focus on proper alignment of the feet and hands during exercise without substantial movement of the user's eyes during exercise. However, the size and relative location of the focal region 316 may vary.

Other embodiments are also possible. For example, the focal regions 306 and 316 may have other configurations (e.g., rectangular, triangular, linear, oval or another geometric shape).

FIGS. 4A-8 illustrate example configurations of attachment mechanisms. The type, positioning, shape and size of the attachment mechanisms can vary from implementation to implementation. Further, the material(s) used for the attachment mechanisms may vary. For example, in some embodiments, the attachment mechanisms may be formed from a substantially non-absorbent material such as, but not limited to, various forms of hard plastic, stainless steel, aluminum, magnetic materials, hook and loop fabric, and polyamide materials. The material(s) used to form the attachment mechanisms can have a relatively high coefficient of static friction, such that the attachment mechanisms inhibit relative movement when the attachment mechanisms are engaged. More particularly, the coefficient of static friction between attachment mechanisms may be greater than a coefficient of static friction between of the absorbent cover and mat The relatively high static friction of the attachment mechanisms may decrease the likelihood that the absorbent cover willslip, slide or otherwise move relative to the surface of the mat upon which the absorbent cover is positioned. Stated another way, the attachment mechanisms may secure the absorbent cover relative to the surface of the mat.

FIG. 4A is a diagram of an apparatus 400 including an absorbent cover 402 that may be coupled to a mat 404 using a plurality of attachment mechanisms. The attachment mechanisms 410 and 412 can be positioned adjacent to the edge of side B 406 of the absorbent cover 402 and the edge of side A 408 of the mat 404. In some examples, the attachment mechanisms 410 and 412 may be positioned in a pattern. For example, each corner of the absorbent cover 402 and each corner of the mat 404 may include an attachment mechanism 410 and 412 and each edge of the absorbent cover 402 and the mat 404 may include attachment mechanisms. In some examples, at least one attachment mechanism may be provided at the midpoint along each edge. In the illustrated example, the absorbent cover 402 includes eight attachment mechanisms (e.g., 410(1)-410(8)) and the mat 404 includes eight corresponding attachment mechanisms (e.g., 412(1)-412(8)).

FIG. 4A also illustrates an expanded view of the attachment mechanisms 410(3) and 412(3). In particular, the attachment mechanisms 410 and 412 are illustrated as male and female magnetic snaps, respectively particular, the protrusion 414 present on a male attachment mechanism 410 engages the recess 416 of a female attachment mechanism 412. Once the protrusion 414 engages the recess 416, the attachment mechanisms 410(3) magnetically couples to the attachment mechanism 412(3) to releasably secure the absorbent cover 402 to the mat 404. FIG. 4B illustrates the engagement of attachment mechanisms 410 with attachment mechanisms 412.

The magnetic properties of the attachment mechanisms may vary from implementation to implementation. For example, in some embodiments, both attachment mechanisms 410 and 412 may be magnets. In other embodiments, one of the attachment mechanisms 410 and 412 may be a magnet and the other may be formed from a material that is attracted to magnets (e.g. ferromagnetic material) but that is not necessarily magnetized. In other embodiments, the attachment mechanisms 410 and 412 may include various combinations of magnets and non-magnets.

Moreover, embodiments are not limited to a particular style of attachment mechanism. FIGS. 5A and 5B depict another magnetic snap type of attachment mechanism, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. The illustrated attachment mechanisms 502 and 504 are similar to the magnetic snaps 410 and 412 of FIG. 4 but, instead of including a substantially squared protrusion and a correspondingly squared recess, the protrusion 506 and a recess 508 of the attachment mechanisms 502 and 504 are slanted or angled. As used herein, slanted is used to encompass protrusions and recesses that are conical, pyramidal, rounded, substantially or near conical, pyramidal or rounded, and similar shapes. For example, as used herein, slanted would encompass a protrusion that is substantially conical but which has a flat tip but would not include cube or cylindrical shaped protrusion and recesses. FIG. 5B illustrates the engagement of attachment mechanism 502 with attachment mechanism 504. In particular, the protrusion 506 present on the male attachment mechanism 502 engages the recess 508 of the female attachment mechanism 504.

In some embodiments, the slanted design of the protrusion 506 present on the male attachment mechanism 502 and the recess 508 of the female attachment mechanism 504 may be quicker and easier to engage in comparison to attachment mechanisms 410 and 412 of FIG. 4. For example, if misaligned, the magnetic attraction between attachment mechanisms 502 and 504 may be more likely to cause the attachment mechanisms 502 and 504 to automatically slide into a correct alignment than the magnetic attraction between attachment mechanisms 410 and 412.

FIG. 6 is a diagram of an apparatus 600 including an absorbent cover 602 that may be attached to a mat 604 using continuous attachment mechanisms. In the illustrated example, the attachment mechanisms 610 and 612 are positioned around the edge of side B 606 of the absorbent cover 602 and the edge of side A 608 of the mat 604. In a particular example, the attachment mechanisms 610 and 612 may be magnetic strips that are sewn or riveted to the absorbent cover 602 or mat 604.

FIG. 7 is a diagram of an apparatus 700 including an absorbent cover 702 that may be attached to a mat 704 using a plurality of attachment mechanisms. The illustrated example of FIG. 7 is similar to that illustrated in FIG. 4. For example, the attachment mechanisms 710 are positioned around the edge of side B 706 of the absorbent cover 702 and the attachment mechanisms 712 are positioned around the edge of side A 708 of the mat 704. However, the implementation of FIG. 7 includes additional attachment mechanisms along the longest edges of the absorbent cover 702 and mat 704. As would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of this disclosure, various other configurations and patterns for placement of attachment mechanisms may be utilized.

FIG. 8 is a diagram of an apparatus 800 including an absorbent cover 802 that may be attached to a mat 804 using multiple types of attachment mechanisms. In particular, the attachment mechanisms 810 and 814 are discontinuous attachment mechanisms that are positioned around the edges of side B 806 of the absorbent cover 802 and side A 808 of the mat 804 and the attachment mechanisms 812 and 816 are continuous attachment mechanisms that are positioned around the edges of side B 806 of the absorbent cover 802 and side A 808 of the mat 804.

In some embodiments, the attachment mechanisms may be affixed to the mat and absorbent cover directly, such as by using a riveting method, which can include riveting magnetic snaps or mechanisms into position on the mat and absorbent cover.

FIGS. 9A and 913 illustrate views 900 and 920 of an apparatus in which attachment mechanisms are affixed directly to an absorbent cover 902 and a mat 904 using, as an example, riveting. In the illustrated view 900, the attachment mechanism to be affixed to the absorbent cover 902 is initially two pieces, an attachment mechanism back with a rivet stem 906 and an attachment mechanism with a rivet cap 908. Similarly, the attachment mechanism to be affixed to the mat 904 is initially two pieces, an attachment mechanism with a rivet stem 910 and an attachment mechanism back with a rivet cap 912. As depicted in view 920 of FIG. 9B, the attachment mechanisms are affixed to the absorbent cover 902 and mat 904 through a riveting process (e.g., pressing the rivet stem through the absorbent cover 902 or mat 904 and into the rivet cap to rivet the pieces together).

In some embodiments, the attachment mechanisms may be affixed to the absorbent cover or mat indirectly, such as by affixing the attachment mechanisms to pieces of material and then affixing the pieces or material to the absorbent cover or mat. In some embodiments, the absorbent cover may be formed from multiple layers of the same or different materials.

FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C illustrate views 1000, 1020 and 1040 of an apparatus in which attachment mechanisms are indirectly affixed to an absorbent cover and a mat. More particularly, views 1000, 1020 and 1040 depict the affixing of attachment mechanisms to pieces of fabric 1002 and 1004 and then affixing the pieces of fabric 1002 and 1004 to an absorbent cover 1006 and a mat 1008. As depicted in view 1000, the attachment mechanism to be affixed to the absorbent cover 1006 is initially two pieces, an attachment mechanism back with a rivet stem 1010 and an attachment mechanism with a rivet cap 1012. Similarly, the attachment mechanism to be affixed to the mat 1008 is initially two pieces, an attachment mechanism with a rivet stem 1014 and an attachment mechanism back with a rivet cap 1016. As shown in view 1020, the attachment mechanisms are affixed to the pieces of fabric 1002 and 1004 through a riveting process (e.g., pressing the rivet stem through the pieces of fabric 1002 and 1004 and into the rivet cap to rivet the pieces together). As shown in view 1040, the attachment mechanisms are then indirectly affixed to the absorbent cover 1006 and the mat 1008 by, for example, sewing the pieces of fabric 1002 and 1004 to the absorbent cover 1006 and the mat 1008, respectively. While discussed in the context of pieces of fabric that are sewn to the absorbent cover 1006 and the mat 1008, the items 1002 and 1004 are not so limited, and various other materials may be used.

Examples of alternative methods that may be used to affix the attachment mechanisms or intermediary pieces of material to the mat and absorbent cover include but are not limited to riveting, screwing, sewing, chemical bonding, adhesive, or any other manner that would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art in view of this disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, screws may be used to affix the attachment mechanisms to the mat or absorbent cover. In another example, a bolt and nut type fastener arrangement may be used to affix the attachment mechanisms to the mat or absorbent cover instead of, or in combination with, riveting.

In addition, the riveting method depicted in FIGS. 9A-10C may be varied and other types of rivets may be used. For example, while items 906, 910, 1010 and 1014 are illustrated as having rivet stems and items 908, 912, 1012 and 1016 are illustrated as having rivet caps, is the structure is not so limited. For example, the items 906, 910, 1010 and 1014 and the items 908, 912, 1012, and 1016 may be switched. Further, other combinations of rivet stems, rivet caps, threaded attachments, or other connectable structures may be used.

FIG. 11 illustrates a diagram of an apparatus 1100 including an absorbent cover 1102 that may be coupled to a mat 1104 using a plurality of attachment mechanisms, including attachment mechanisms affixed to a sleeve 1106 into which the mat 1104 may be inserted. The attachment mechanisms 1112 and 1114 can be positioned adjacent to the edge of side B 1108 of the absorbent cover 1102 and the edge of side A 1110 of the sleeve 1106. In some examples, the attachment mechanisms 1112 on the absorbent cover 1102 may be arranged in a pattern, and attachment mechanisms 1114 attached to the sleeve 1106 may be arranged in a corresponding pattern. For example, each corner of the absorbent cover 1102 and each corner of the sleeve 1110 may include an attachment mechanism 1112 and 1114, respectively and each edge of the absorbent cover 1102 and the sleeve 1106 may include attachment mechanisms 1112 and 1114, respectively. In some examples, at least one attachment mechanism may be provided at the midpoint along each edge of both the absorbent cover 1102 and the sleeve 1106. In the illustrated example, the absorbent cover 1102 includes eight attachment mechanisms (e.g., 1112(1)-1112(8)) and the sleeve 1106 includes eight corresponding attachment mechanisms e.g., 1114(1)-1114(8)).

While the example depicted in FIG. 11 includes a sleeve 1106 that covers the entirety of the mat 1106, the disclosure is not so limited. For example, instead of a sleeve 1106, the may 1104 may be fitted with a form fitting edge cover in the shape of the mat 1104 may be provide that may include the attachment mechanisms. In another example, attachment mechanisms may be affixed to pockets of a cover, which may be formed from fabric. The corners of the mat may be inserted into the pockets, and the pockets may be secured to the mat, for example, by elastic straps, snaps, or other fasteners (such as ties) that can secure the pockets to the mat. In some examples, a tie may be provided at a midpoint along an edge of the mat to secure the cover to the mat. These and many other variations are possible.

The positioning, type and number of attachment mechanisms may vary to achieve a desired level of restriction of movement between the absorbent cover and the mat (e.g., be continuous, discontinuous or a combination of continuous and discontinuous). For example, the attachment mechanisms may run in a continuous or semi-continuous pattern on the mat and absorbent cover. If the attachment mechanisms are positioned relatively close to one another while not unduly inhibiting moisture absorption by the absorbent cover, there is less chance for the absorbent cover to move (e.g., less movement between the absorbent cover relative to the mat). Consequently, in some embodiments, injuries caused by slippage of the absorbent cover relative to the mat are reduced.

Additionally, embodiments are not limited to those in which the positioning of attachment mechanisms follows a pattern or to those in which each attachment mechanism of the absorbent cover is matched to a corresponding attachment mechanism of the mat. For example, the attachment mechanisms may be positioned in a substantially random manner on the absorbent cover and mat. In another example, different types or styles of attachment mechanisms may be engaged to attach the absorbent cover to the mat. For example, in some embodiments, magnetic snaps on the absorbent cover may engage continuous or discontinuous magnetic strips on the mat.

FIG. 12 shows a flow diagram of a method 1200 of forming the absorbent covers and mats of FIGS. 1-11. The process is illustrated as a collection of blocks in a logical flow diagram, which represent a sequence of operations. The order in which the operations are described should not be construed as a limitation. Any number of the described blocks can be combined in any order or in parallel to implement the process, or alternative processes, and not all of the blocks need be executed. For discussion purposes, the processes herein are described with reference to the frameworks, architectures and environments described in the examples herein, although the processes may be implemented in a wide variety of other frameworks, architectures or environments.

At 1202, one or more attachment mechanisms are coupled to the absorbent cover. This may be done by directly or indirectly affixing the one or more attachment mechanisms to the absorbent cover, for example, in the manners described above. In some embodiments, the attachment mechanism may be directly attached to the absorbent cover, for example, by coupling a rivet cap to a rivet stem through the absorbent cover. In other embodiments, the attachment mechanism may be indirectly attached by coupling the one or more attachment mechanisms to a first layer of the absorbent cover and by coupling the first layer to another layer of the absorbent cover.

At 1204, one or more attachment mechanisms are coupled to the mat. This may be done by directly or indirectly affixing the one or more attachment mechanisms to the mat. Items 1202 and 1204 may be performed such that, when the absorbent cover is positioned on top of the mat, the attachment mechanisms align. At 1206, the attachment mechanisms of the absorbent cover are coupled with the attachment mechanisms of the mat.

While the embodiments disclosed above with respect to FIGS. 1-12 describe particular illustrative embodiments, some embodiments may be combined or may include at least some variations. For example, the size of the attachment and the distance that each part of the attachment mechanism projects or extends away from the absorbent cover and mat may vary. In another example, the absorbent cover or mat can also include a strap that is removably or fixedly attached to the absorbent cover or mat. The strap can be attached to the absorbent cover or mat by any suitable means, including loop and pile, hook and loop, snaps, stitches, adhesive, other means, or any combination thereof.

Alternatively, the strap can be tied around the absorbent cover or mat to maintain the mat or absorbent cover in the rolled-up configuration. The strap can include a handle for carrying or otherwise transporting the absorbent cover or mat between locations. Further, the strap can be used for maintaining the absorbent cover or mat in the second, rolled up configuration, e.g. for storage, until the mat or absorbent cover is ready for use. These and many other variations are possible.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising:

an absorbent cover including a liquid absorbing material; and

one or more attachment mechanisms formed from metal and coupled to the absorbent cover and configured to mate with corresponding magnets associated with a mat to releasably secure the absorbent cover to the mat.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the one or more attachment mechanisms includes:

a first portion including a first side having a substantially smooth surface and including a second side having a fastening mechanism; and

a second portion including a first side configured to engage the fastening mechanism to secure the attachment mechanism to the absorbent cover and including a second side including at least one of a recessed surface and a raised surface configured to engage a corresponding feature of at least one of the corresponding magnets.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the first portion and the second portion form a rivet extending through the absorbent cover.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one of the one or more attachment mechanisms includes at least one of steel and aluminum.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising the mat formed from a flexible material and including the corresponding magnets.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the absorbent cover includes length and width dimensions that are substantially equal to those of the mat.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the absorbent cover includes a microfiber material selected to have fibers configured to absorb moisture.

8. A apparatus comprising:

an absorbent cover;

a mat at least partially formed from a cushioning material, the mat including a first side and including a second side configured to engage a supporting surface during use; and

one or more first attachment mechanisms affixed to at least the first side of the mat, the one or more first attachment mechanisms configured to secure the absorbent cover to the mat.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein at least one of the one or more first attachment mechanisms is riveted to the mat.

10. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the absorbent cover includes one or more second attachment mechanisms configured to couple to the first attachment mechanisms to secure the absorbent cover to the mat.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein at least one of the one or more first attachment mechanisms includes a magnetized material and is configured to couple magnetically to one of the one or more second attachment mechanisms.

12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein:

at least one of the one or more first attachment mechanisms includes a first material:

at least one of the one or more second attachment mechanisms includes a second material; and

the first material includes at least one of a hook material and a loop material, and the second material includes at least one of the loop material and the hook material.

13. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein:

at least one of the one or more first attachment mechanisms includes a magnetized material; and

wherein the absorbent cover includes one or more second attachment mechanisms including a metal and configured to couple to the one or more first attachment mechanisms.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein:

the at least one first attachment mechanism includes a slanted protrusion; and

the one or more second attachment mechanisms include a slanted recess configured to mate with the slanted protrusion of the at least one first attachment mechanism; and

a magnetic force of the at least one first attachment and the slanted recess cooperate to align a selected one of the one or more second attachment mechanisms to the at least one first attachment mechanism.

15. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein:

at least one of the one or more first attachment mechanisms includes a magnetized material and includes a slanted recess; and

the one or more second attachment mechanisms include a slanted protrusion configured to mate with the slanted recess of the at least one first attachment mechanism; and

a magnetic force of the at least one first attachment and the slanted recess cooperate to align a selected one of the one or more second attachment mechanisms to the at least one first attachment mechanism

16. A method of attaching an absorbent cover to a mat, the method comprising:

coupling one or more first attachment mechanisms to the absorbent cover, the one or more first attachment mechanisms including metal;

coupling one or more second attachment mechanisms to the mat, the one or more second attachment mechanism including a magnetic material; and

selectively aligning the one or more first attachment mechanisms with the one or more second attachment mechanisms to establish a magnetic coupling.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein before coupling the one or more first attachment mechanisms, the method further comprising forming the absorbent cover and the mat to have substantially equal length and width dimensions.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein coupling the one or more first and second attachment mechanisms includes:

coupling a rivet stem and a rivet cap of a first attachment rivet through the absorbent cover to form one of the one or more first attachment mechanisms; and

coupling a rivet stem and a rivet cap of a second attachment rivet through the mat to form one of the one or more second attachment mechanisms.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein coupling the one or more first attachment mechanisms to the absorbent cover includes:

coupling a first portion and a second portions of a selected one of the first attachment mechanisms through a piece of material to form the first attachment mechanisms; and

coupling the piece of material to an absorbent layer to form the absorbent cover.

20. The method of claim 16, wherein coupling the piece of material to the absorbent cover includes sewing the piece of material to the absorbent cover.