Abstract: A spring unit comprises a continuous coil spring (5) contained within a sleeve (26) of strong, yet flexible, material. The unit is produced by providing a folding attachment device (2) having oppositely inclined spaced walls (13, 14) which converge from a feed end (3) to an outlet end (4), and simultaneously drawing the flexible material and the coil spring through the folding attachment device from the feed end to the outlet end with the spaced walls acting to fold the material over the coil spring and to apply a substantially uniform compressive force to the coil spring. As the material and the spring are drawn through the outlet end (4), overlapping edges of the flexible material are joined together to complete the spring unit.

Abstract: A spring assembly comprises upper and lower superimposed webs of strong yet flexible material which are connected together at spaced intervals to define a plurality of similar pockets (30, 31, 32, 33 . . . ) arranged side-by-side in a parallel relationship, and a length of continuous spring (20) inserted into each successive pre-formed pocket. Apparatus and a method of manufacturing the spring assembly are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of encapsulating spring units is disclosed. The method comprises inserting an uncompressed spring unit into an insertion device, moving the insertion device between a pair of webs, tightening or tensioning the webs around the insertion device, compressing the spring unit, tightening the webs around the compressed spring unit, withdrawing the insertion device as the webs are tightened, and, while the spring unit is compressed, connecting the webs together.

Abstract: Apparatus for encapsulating spring units (38-40) is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a device (13) for inserting a spring unit between a pair of webs (16), a device (26) for tightening or tensioning the webs about the spring unit, and a securing device for securing the webs together in close proximity to the compressed spring unit to encapsulate same. A method for encapsulating spring units is also disclosed.

Abstract: A bedding system for use where mite-allergy is a problem causing e.g. asthma comprises a permeable mite barrier such as microporous or vapor permeable coated fabric which can be used as a mattress cover or ticking, pillow and duvet covers.

Abstract: Apparatus for encapsulating spring units (38-40) is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a device (13) for inserting a spring unit between a pair of webs (16), a device (26) for tightening or tensioning the webs about the spring unit, and a securing device for securing the webs together in close proximity to the compressed spring unit to encapsulate same. A method for encapsulating spring units is also disclosed.