BAFFLE BOX COMFORTER

Abstract

A comforter according to aspects of the disclosure includes a first fabric panel, a second fabric panel, and a baffle floor. The baffle floor extends between the first and second vertical edges of the comforter. The baffle floor has a first end attached to the first fabric panel and a second end attached to the second fabric panel. The first end of the baffle floor is attached to the first fabric at a first position and the second end of the baffle floor is attached to the second fabric panel at a second position, the first and second positions being vertically spaced apart from one another in a direction extending between the first and second lateral edges.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Baffle box comforters are typically manufactured from a fabric shell with baffle sidewalls and baffle floors that intersect one another to form multiple chambers, as well as a natural or synthetic filling disposed within each of the chambers. The baffle sidewalls are positioned between two fabric panels that form the outer fabric shell. One end of each baffle sidewall is attached to the first fabric panel and the opposite end of each baffle sidewall is attached to the second fabric panel. The baffle sidewalls can be helpful to minimize cold spots within the comforter by preventing the fill material from bunching up, as well as allowing the fill material to expand to its greatest potential loft. However, cold spots remain present within the comforter at the corners of the chambers where the baffle sidewalls and baffle floors intersect. Various designs have been implemented to address these shortcomings, but improvements are still needed.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A comforter according to aspects of the disclosure includes a first fabric panel, a second fabric panel, and a baffle floor. The baffle floor extends between the first and second vertical edges of the comforter. The baffle floor has a first end attached to the first fabric panel and a second end attached to the second fabric panel. The first end of the baffle floor is attached to the first fabric at a first position and the second end of the baffle floor is attached to the second fabric panel at a second position, the first and second positions being vertically spaced apart from one another in a direction extending between the first and second lateral edges.

In one example of this aspect, the comforter further includes a baffle sidewall that extends in a direction between the first and second lateral edges. The baffle sidewall may have a first end attached to the first fabric panel and a second end attached to the second fabric panel. The first end of the baffle sidewall may be attached to the first fabric at a third position and the second end of the baffle sidewall may be attached to the second fabric panel at a fourth position. The third and fourth positions may be laterally spaced apart from one another in a direction that extends between the first and second vertical edges. In some examples, the first end of the baffle floor is closer to the second vertical edge than the second end of the baffle floor, and the first end of the baffle sidewall is closer to the first vertical sidewall than the second end of the baffle sidewall. In other examples, the first end of the baffle floor may be spaced apart from the second end of the baffle floor by a length of at least 2.75 inches. Similarly, the baffle floor may have a slope ranging from 0 to 90 degrees. The slope may vary depending, in part, upon how much fill is provided within the comforter.

In another example of this aspect, the first fabric panel is comprised of a first material and the baffle floor is comprised of a different material than the first fabric panel. In some examples, the different material may be a mesh material.

In yet another example of this aspect, the comforter includes a plurality of chambers, wherein the baffle floor forms a row, and the baffle sidewall is a plurality of baffle sidewalls positioned within the first row, each of the plurality of baffle sidewalls having a first end attached to the first fabric panel and a second end attached to the second fabric panel, the plurality of chambers formed by the intersection of the plurality of sidewalls and the baffle floor. In some examples, a fill material may be positioned within each of the plurality of chambers. The fill material may include a first fill material and a second fill material, where the first fill material is in at least one of the plurality of chambers and the second fill material is in at least one other of the plurality of chambers. The first and second fill material may be the same.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, a method of manufacturing a comforter includes positioning a baffle floor between a first fabric panel and second fabric panel; attaching a first end of the baffle floor to the first fabric panel at a first position and a second end of the second baffle floor to the second fabric panel at a second position so that the first position and the second position are spaced apart from one another in a vertical direction extending between a first lateral edge and a second lateral edge of the first fabric panel; positioning a baffle sidewall between a first fabric panel and second fabric panel so that the baffle sidewall intersects the baffle floor; and attaching a first end of the baffle sidewall to the first fabric panel at a third point and a second end of the second baffle sidewall to the second fabric panel at a fourth point so that the third point and the fourth point are spaced apart from one another in a lateral direction extending between a first vertical edge and a second vertical edge of the first fabric panel. The first and second vertical edges may extend in a direction perpendicular to the first and second lateral edges.

In one example of this aspect, the method further includes forming at least one chamber by positioning the baffle sidewall adjacent the baffle floor so as to form an intersection between the baffle sidewall and the baffle floor. In another example, the method further includes filling the chamber with a fill material.

In another example of this aspect, the first point is closer to the first lateral edge than the second point. Additionally, the third point may be closer to the first vertical edge than the fourth point.

Aspects of the disclosure are directed to a baffle box comforter. In one example, a baffle box comforter includes first and second fabric panels, an intermediate fabric panel positioned between the first and second fabric panels, and a baffle sidewall attached to the intermediate fabric. The first and second fabric panels can be joined together at their outer edges to form an outer perimeter of the baffle box comforter. The outer perimeter can include first and second vertical edges and first and second lateral edges that extend between the first and second vertical edges. The outer perimeter may have a first dimension. The outer edges of the intermediate fabric panel may be joined to the outer edges of the first and second fabric panels. The intermediate fabric may have a second dimension substantially equal to the first dimension. A first baffle sidewall may extend away from the intermediate fabric panel toward the first fabric panel. A second baffle sidewall may extend away from the intermediate fabric panel toward the second fabric panel. The first baffle sidewall may be attached to the intermediate fabric panel at a first position and the second baffle sidewall may be attached to the intermediate fabric panel at a second position, the first and second positions being spaced apart from one another along the length of the intermediate fabric panel.

According to another aspect, an example baffle box comforter may include a first fabric panel and a second fabric panel joined to the first fabric panel, an interior space between the first and second fabrics, a plurality of baffle floors, a plurality of baffle sidewalls, and a plurality of openings within the baffle floors. The first and second opposed vertical edges may be formed at outer edges of the joined first and second fabric panels. The plurality of baffle floors may be positioned within the interior space. Each of the plurality of baffle floors may have a length extending between the first and second vertical edges. The plurality of baffle floors may be spaced apart from one another along a longitudinal length of the first and second vertical edges. The floors may separate the interior space into a plurality of rows. A plurality of baffle sidewalls may be positioned within each of the plurality of rows. Each of the plurality of baffle sidewalls may have a main body that extends between the first and second fabrics. The plurality of baffle sidewalls may form a first acute angle between the main body and the first fabric. Each of the plurality of openings may be positioned adjacent the baffle sidewalls and extend an entire length between the first and second fabric panels.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front plan view of a baffle box comforter according to an aspect of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of a fabric shell of the baffle box comforter of FIG. 1 in an open position.

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the fabric shell of the baffle box comforter of FIG. 1, wherein the top edge and bottom edge are in open position.

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the fabric shell of the baffle box comforter of FIG. 1, wherein the top edge and bottom edge are in open position.

FIG. 5A is a top plan view of the baffle box comforter of FIG. 1, wherein the top edge is in an open position.

FIG. 5B is a top plan view of an alternative baffle box comforter according to an aspect of the disclosure, with the top edge in an open position.

FIG. 6 is a front plan view of a baffle box comforter according to an aspect of the disclosure.

FIG. 7A is a top plan view of a fabric shell of the baffle box comforter of FIG. 6.

FIG. 7B is a top plan view of an alternative fabric shell of the baffle box comforter according to an aspect of the disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a front plan view of a baffle box comforter according to an aspect of the disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional side plan view of a section of the baffle comforter 200 taken through line E-E of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is cross-sectional top plan view of a fabric shell of the baffle box comforter of FIG. 8 taken through line F-F.

FIG. 10A is an enlarged portion of FIG. 10.

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of the fabric shell of the baffle box comforter of FIG. 8, wherein the top edge and bottom edge are in open position.

FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the baffle box comforter of FIG. 8 wherein the top edge is in an open position.

FIG. 13 is a front plan view of a baffle box comforter according to an aspect of the disclosure.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the baffle box comforter of FIG. 13 in an open position.

FIG. 15 is cross-sectional side plan view of the baffle comforter of FIG. 13 taken through line F-F of FIG. 13.

FIG. 16 is cross-sectional top plan view of a fabric shell of the baffle box comforter taken through line G-G of FIG. 13.

FIG. 17 is a front plan view of a baffle box comforter according to an aspect of the disclosure.

FIG. 18 is cross-sectional side plan view of the baffle comforter of FIG. 13 taken through line G-G of FIG. 13 without fill material for ease of illustration.

FIG. 19 is cross-sectional top plan view of a fabric shell of the baffle box comforter taken through line H-H of FIG. 13 without fill material for ease of illustration.

FIG. 20 is a top plan view of a fabric shell of a baffle box comforter of another example embodiment, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the baffle box comforter of FIG. 20.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1-3 illustrate features of an example baffle box comforter 100 according to an aspect of the disclosure. With reference first to FIG. 1, the example baffle box comforter 100 includes a fabric shell 120 with a bedding fill material disposed within the fabric shell 120. The fabric shell 120 may include, for example, a first outer fabric panel or first fabric 122, a second outer fabric panel or second fabric 124 (FIG. 2), an intermediate fabric panel or intermediate fabric 156 (FIG. 2) positioned between the first and second fabrics, baffle floors 104A-104D, front baffle sidewalls 108A-L, and rear baffle sidewalls 110A-L. The first and second fabrics 122, 124 may be constructed from any known materials. These materials can include, for example, natural or synthetic fibers, including, for example, cotton, silk, or polyester fabrics or blends, or combinations of these materials. The first and second fabrics 122, 124 can be comprised of the same material or different materials. The bedding fill material may be manufactured from natural or synthetic materials, such as, for example, down feathers, wool, silk, polyester, woven materials and the like. The size of the baffle box comforter 100 can vary. For example, the baffle box comforter 100 may be manufactured according to standard size bedding dimensions, such as the standard sizes for twin, queen, and king, or the size may be custom size.

The first and second fabrics 122, 124, as well as the intermediate fabric 156, may be secured together at their outer ends by a seam 134 that joins the outer edges of the first and second fabrics 122, 124 together. As shown in FIG. 1, the seam 134 extends around the outer circumference of the fabric shell 120 to form an outer perimeter 136. First and second vertical edges 126,128, as well as first and second lateral edges 130, 132 form the outermost edges of the fabric shell 120. In this example, the outer edges of the first and second fabrics 122, 124 are joined together so that the first and second fabrics 122, 124 are directly adjacent one another. In other examples, the outer edges of the first and second fabrics may be spaced apart from one another to create a thicker edge around the comforter, such as by adding a gusset around the vertical edges 126,128 and first and second lateral edges 130, 132 of the fabric shell 120.

An intermediate fabric may be positioned between the first and second fabrics 122, 124. FIG. 2, a top-plan view of the fabric shell 120 in an open position and without filling, illustrates an example intermediate fabric 150 positioned between the first and second fabrics 122, 124. The intermediate fabric 150 can include a front surface 154 and a rear surface 156. The intermediate fabric 150 can generally can extend in a direction between the first vertical edge 126 and the second vertical edge 128 of the fabric shell, as well as in a direction that is parallel to the first lateral edge 130 and second lateral edge 132 of the fabric shell 120. In this example, the intermediate fabric 150 extends fully from the first vertical edge 126 to a second vertical edge 128 of the fabric shell 120. In other examples, the intermediate fabric 150 may only extend partially between the first vertical edge 125 and the second vertical edge 128. The intermediate fabric 150 may alternatively be comprised of a plurality of materials or fabrics joined together that each individually extend between the first vertical edge 126 and the second vertical edge 128 of the fabric shell. The intermediate fabric 150 can be comprised of the same or similar materials as the first and second fabrics 120, 122. In other examples, the intermediate fabric 150 may be comprised of a material that is different than the first and second fabrics 120, 122. Furthermore, the intermediate fabric may be a mesh or other fabric or non-fabric material that separates the first and second fabrics 120, 122 from one another.

The interior 152 of the fabric shell 120 may include at least two interior portions separated by the intermediate fabric 150: a front interior portion 158 and a rear interior portion 160. The front interior portion 158, as shown in FIG. 2, may extend from the front surface 154 of the intermediate fabric 150 to the interior surface 123 of the first fabric 122. The rear interior portion 160 may extend from the rear surface 156 of the intermediate fabric 150 to the interior surface 125 of the second fabric 124. In this example, the intermediate fabric 150 divides the interior 152 into two equal halves. In other examples, it may be desired that the intermediate fabric 150 be positioned within the interior 152 such that the interior 152 is not equally divided. In still other examples, more than one intermediate fabric may be provided so that at least three or more interior layers are formed between the first and second fabrics 122, 124.

Baffle floors can extend between the first and second fabrics in both the front interior portion 158 and rear interior portion 160. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1-2, baffle floor 104A can extend across a plane P1 (FIG. 1) between the first and second vertical edges 126, 128, as well as in a transverse direction in the same plane P1 between the first and second fabrics 122, 124. In this example, floor 104A extends between the interior surface 123 of the first fabric 122 and the front surface 154 of the intermediate fabric 150, as well as between the interior surface 125 of the second fabric 124 and the rear surface 156 of the intermediate fabric 150. The remaining baffle floors 104B and 104C similarly extend in a lateral direction in a plane (not shown) parallel to P1 between the first and second vertical edges 126, 128, as well as in a transverse direction in the same parallel plane between the first and second fabrics 122, 124. As illustrated in FIG. 3, a perspective view of the fabric shell 120 of comforter 200 without filling material, floors 104B and 104C are shown extending between the interior surface 123 of the first fabric 122 and the front surface 154 of the intermediate fabric 150, as well as between the interior surface 125 of the second fabric 124 and the rear surface 156 of the intermediate fabric 150.

The baffle floors 104A, 104B, and 104C may be spaced apart from one another and positioned at various points along the first and second vertical edges 126, 128 of the fabric shell 120. The baffle floors 104A-104D can create rows 106A, 106B, 106C, and 106D extending between the first and second vertical edges 126, 128 within the front interior portion 158 and rows 106E-106H within the rear interior portion 160 (FIG. 4). In this example, the baffle floors 104A-104D are evenly spaced apart from one another. In other examples, the spacing between baffle floors can be increased or decreased depending on the desired design and number of baffle floors. For example, providing additional baffle floors will decrease the spacing between the baffle floors, whereas reducing the number of baffle floors will increase the overall space between baffle floors. The baffle floors 104A-104D may be constructed from a variety of materials. In one example, baffle floor 104A-104D are constructed from a mesh material or material with openings to allow a fill material to be blown therethrough during manufacture. In other examples, the baffle floor may be a generally solid material such as a continuous piece of cotton material or the same material as the first and second fabrics 222, 224.

One or more baffle sidewalls may be positioned within respective rows 106A-D of the front interior portion 158, as well as within respective rows 106E-106H of the rear interior portion 160. As shown, for example, in FIG. 2, front baffle sidewalls 108A, 108B, 108C are separated from rear baffle sidewalls 110A, 110B, and 110C by the intermediate fabric 156. Front baffle sidewalls 108A-108C are positioned within the front interior portion 158 and rear baffle sidewalls 110A-110C are positioned within the rear interior portion 160. The front baffle sidewalls 108A-108C can extend from the front surface 154 of the intermediate fabric 150 toward the interior surface 123 of the first outer fabric 122. The first ends 107A, 107B, 107C of the respective front baffle sidewalls 108A-C can be attached to the intermediate fabric 156 and the second ends 109A, 109B, 109C of the front baffle sidewalls 108A-108C, can be attached to the interior surface 123 of the first fabric 122.

Rear baffle sidewalls 110A-110C each extend from the rear surface 156 of the intermediate fabric 150 toward the interior surface 125 of the second fabric 124. The first ends 111A, 111B and 111C of the rear baffle sidewalls 110A-110C can be attached to the rear surface 156 of the intermediate fabric 150 and the second ends 113A-113C of the rear baffle sidewalls 110A-110C are attached to the interior surface of the second fabric 124. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 3, front baffle sidewalls 108D-108L have respective first ends 107D-L attached to the interior surface 123 of the first fabric 122 and second respective ends 109D-L attached to the front surface 154 of the intermediate fabric 150. As shown in FIG. 4, rear baffle sidewalls 110D-110L have respective first ends 111D-111L attached to the interior surface 125 of the second fabric 124 and second ends 113D-113L attached to the rear surface 156 of the intermediate fabric 150.

The first end of one or more baffle sidewalls may be aligned with the first end of another baffle sidewall in an adjacent row. For example, each of the front baffle sidewalls in the front interior portion 158 can be aligned with the first end of another front baffle sidewall in an adjacent row. As shown in FIG. 3, in row 106A, first end 107A of front baffle sidewall 108A may be aligned with first end 107D of front baffle sidewall 108B in row 106B. The first ends 107G and 107J of respective front baffle sidewalls 108G and 108J in respective rows 106C and 106D can be aligned with one another, as well as the first ends 107A, 107D of baffle sidewalls 108A and 108D. First ends 107B, 107E, 107H and 107K of front baffle sidewalls 108B, 108E, 108H, and 108K may also be aligned with one another. Finally, respective first ends 107C, 107F, 107I, and 107 L of respective baffle sidewalls 108C, 108F, 108I, and 108L may also be aligned with one another.

Similarly, each of the rear baffle sidewalls in the rear interior portion can be aligned with the first end of another rear baffle sidewall in an adjacent row. As shown in FIG. 4, in row 106E, first end 111A of rear baffle sidewall 110A may be aligned with first end 111D of rear baffle sidewall 110B in row 106F. The ends 111G and 111J of respective rear baffle sidewalls 110G and 110J in respective rows 106G and 106H can be aligned with one another, as well as the first ends 111A, 111D of baffle sidewalls 110A and 110D. First ends 111B, 111E, 111H and 111K of respective rear baffle sidewalls 110B, 110E, 110H, and 110K may also be aligned with one another. Finally, respective first ends 111C, 111F, 111I, and 111L of respective baffle sidewalls 110C, 110F, 1101, and 110L may also be aligned with one another.

The respective front sidewalls and rear sidewalls may be attached at their respective ends to the fabric shell by any means, such as by being sewn or stitched. A baffle seam can be formed along the first fabric 122 where each end of the front baffle sidewalls is attached to the first fabric and a baffle seam can also be formed along the second fabric 124 where each end of the rear baffle sidewalls is attached to the second fabric. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the alignment of front baffle sidewalls 108A, 108D, 108G, and 108J, are aligned with one another can form a continuous first front baffle seam 168 that extends longitudinally between the first lateral edge 130 to the second lateral edge 132. Similarly, the alignment of baffle sidewalls 108B, 108E, 108H, 108K with one another can form a second front baffle seam 170; and alignment of baffle sidewalls 108C, 108F, 108I, 108L with one another can form a third front baffle seam 172. Baffle seams can further be formed along the second fabric 124 where each end of the rear baffle sidewalls is attached to the second fabric 124. Rear baffle sidewalls, as noted above, can also be aligned with one another. The alignment of rear baffle sidewalls 110A, 110D, 110G, 110J (FIGS. 1 and 4) along the second fabric 124 can form a rear baffle seam 174; the alignment of rear baffle sidewalls 108B, 108E, 108H, 108K along the second fabric 124 can form a second rear baffle seam 176; and the alignment of rear baffle sidewalls 110C, 110F, 110I, 110L with one another along the second fabric 124 can form a third rear baffle seam 178.

The baffle sidewalls may be formed from any materials. For instance, the baffle sidewalls may be formed from a mesh material or a material with openings. In alternative examples, the sidewalls may be a solid material, such as a continuous cotton or polyester material. The baffle sidewalls may be formed from the same or a different material as the baffle floors.

With reference back to FIG. 2, the front baffle sidewalls 108A-108L extend between the first fabric 122 and the intermediate fabric 150 in a direction that is generally perpendicular to both the first fabric 122 and the intermediate fabric 150. Similarly, the rear baffle sidewalls 110A-110L can extend in a direction that is generally perpendicular to both the intermediate fabric 150 and the second fabric 124. In other examples, the front baffle sidewalls 110A-110L may extends in a direction such that one or more of the first ends 107A-L of the front baffle sidewalls 108A-108L form an angle Ø_1A, a right angle, with the first fabric 122 and one or more of the second ends 109A-109L of the front baffle sidewalls 108A-108L form an angle Ø_1B, also a right angle, with the intermediate fabric 150. In other examples, Ø_1A and Ø_1B may be less than or greater than ninety degrees.

The sidewalls in the baffle box comforter 200 can be positioned within the fabric shell in a staggered or alternating configuration so that the front baffle sidewalls and the rear baffle sidewalls are not aligned with one another. In one example configuration, front baffle sidewalls can be disposed between and spaced apart from adjacent rear baffle sidewalls and vice versa. As shown in FIG. 2, front baffle sidewalls are positioned between each of the rear baffle sidewalls. Rear baffle sidewall 110A can be positioned between the first vertical edge 126 and front baffle sidewall 108A; rear baffle sidewall 110B can be positioned between front sidewall 108A and 108B; and, rear baffle sidewall 110C can be positioned between front baffle sidewalls 108B and 108C. Front baffle sidewalls 108D-108L disposed within the fabric shell 120 can also be staggered relative to one or more of the remaining rear baffle sidewalls 110D-110L.

Each of the remaining front baffle sidewalls positioned within the front interior portion 158, as shown in FIG. 1, can be offset with regard to adjacent rear baffle sidewalls in the rear interior portion. Front baffle sidewall 108D can be positioned between rear baffle sidewalls 110D and 110E; front baffle sidewall 108E can be positioned between rear baffle sidewalls 110E, 110F, and front baffle sidewall 108F can be positioned between rear baffle sidewall 110F and the second vertical edge 128. Similarly, front baffle sidewall 108G can be positioned between rear baffle sidewalls 110G, 110H; front baffle sidewall 108H can be positioned between rear baffle sidewalls 110H, 110I; and front baffle sidewall 108I can be positioned between rear baffle sidewall 1101 and the second vertical edge 128. Finally, front baffle sidewall 108J is shown positioned between rear baffle sidewalls 110J, 110K; front baffle sidewall 108K is shown positioned between rear baffle sidewalls 110K,110L; and front baffle sidewall 108L is shown positioned between rear baffle sidewall 110L and the second vertical edge 128.

The front baffle seams 168, 170, 172 and rear baffle seams 174, 176, 178, which are determined by the location of the front and rear baffle sidewalls, can also be offset relative to one another so that the front and rear baffle seams do no align with one another. For example, FIG. 1 illustrates front baffle seam 168 being offset from the rear baffle seam 174 by a distance X1, as well as offset from rear baffle seam 176 by a distance X2. Front baffle seam 170 may be offset from adjacent rear baffle seam 176 by a distance X3, as well as offset from rear baffle seam 178 by a distance X4. Finally, baffle seam 172 may be offset front the baffle seam 178 by a distance X5. As shown, each of the distances X1-X5 may be generally equal to one another. But in other examples, one or more distances X1-X5 may differ. In one example, where the length L of the comforter 200 is 98 inches and the width W is 94 inches, the distance X1 may be 2.5 inches, but in other examples, X1 may range from 0.25 to 16 inches, fall outside of the range, may be at least 0.25 inches, or may be less than 0.25 inches. One or more of the remaining distances X2-X5 can also have a length of at least 0.25 inches, as well as a length that falls within similar ranges discussed with regard to X1. In this example, the front baffle sidewall 108A may further include a length L1 between the first fabric 122 and the intermediate fabric panel. Similarly, the rear baffle sidewall 110A, may have a length L2 between the intermediate fabric panel and the second fabric 124. L1 and L2 may each be approximately 0.5 inches, such that the depth of the comforter 200 between the first and second panels can be approximately 1 inch. In other examples, L1 and/or L2 may be greater than 0.5 inches or less than 0.5 inches. Additionally, L1 and/or L2 may range between 0.25 inches and 1.50 inches. In still other examples, L1 and/or L2 may be greater than 1.50 inches.

The baffle sidewalls can also be staggered along the length of the intermediate fabric. Second ends 113A-113C of the respective rear baffle sidewalls 110A-110C in row 106E and the second ends 109A-C of the front baffle sidewalls 108A-C in row 106A, as shown, for example, in FIG. 2, may be attached to the intermediate fabric 150 and staggered along the length of the intermediate fabric. The second ends of the rear baffle sidewalls 110A-110C can be spaced apart from the second ends of the front baffle sidewalls 108A-108C along the length of the intermediate fabric 150. Every other baffle sidewall extending away from the intermediate fabric 150 can be a rear baffle sidewall and an intermediate and respective front baffle sidewall 108A-108C can extend away from the intermediate fabric 150 at a location between each of the rear baffle sidewalls. Using the first vertical wall 126 as a reference point, the first baffle sidewall extending away from the intermediate fabric is rear baffle sidewall 1108A, the next adjacent baffle is front baffle sidewall 108A, the next adjacent baffle is rear baffle sidewall 110B, the next adjacent baffle is front baffle sidewall 108B, the next adjacent baffle sidewall is rear baffle sidewall 110C, and the final baffle sidewall is front baffle sidewall 108C. The spacing between the front and rear baffle sidewalls along the length of the intermediate fabric 150 can be the same distances X1-X5 as discussed above with regard to the front and rear baffle seams.

The depth of a baffle sidewall can be defined by the length of the respective sidewall between the intermediate fabric 150 and the first or second fabrics 122, 124. For example, referring back to FIGS. 2-3, the front baffle sidewall 108A may have a length L1 that extends between the front surface 154 of intermediate fabric 150 and the interior surface 123 of the first fabric 122. The other front baffle sidewalls 108B-108L (FIG. 3) may also each have a length L1 defined by the length of the baffle sidewall between the first outer fabric 122 and the intermediate fabric 156. (For ease of illustration, L1 is only shown with regard to front baffle sidewalls 108B-108D, but the dimension L1 is similarly obtained for each front baffle sidewall 108E-108L.) The length L1 of the front baffle sidewalls 108A-L may be the same. In other examples, the length L1 may vary to allow for a more contoured shape comforter.

As shown in FIG. 2, the rear baffle sidewall 110A may have a length L2 that extends between the rear surface 156 of the intermediate fabric 150 and the interior surface 125 of the second fabric 124. Similarly, rear baffle sidewalls 110B-L may have lengths L2 extending between the rear surface 156 of the intermediate fabric 150 and the interior surface 125 of the second fabric 124. In this example, the lengths L2 are substantially the same. In other examples, one or more lengths L2 of a baffle sidewall may differ. Furthermore, the lengths L1 and L2 may be generally equal in length. In still other examples, the length L1 of one or more front baffle sidewalls may vary relative to the length L2 of one or more of the rear baffle sidewalls (and vice versa).

The height of any one baffle sidewall can be determined by the length the baffle sidewall extends along the first fabric 1122 or the second fabric 124. The front baffle sidewalls may have a height that generally extends between the first and second lateral edges 130,132 of the shell 120, and that is parallel to the first and second vertical edges 126,128. In this example, the height of the sidewalls can be the distance the sidewall extends between one of the baffle floors and another baffle floor or alternatively between one of the baffle floors and one of the outer edges 130,132 of the fabric shell. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, front baffle sidewall 108A can have a height H1 that extends from the first lateral edge 130 to the baffle floor 104A. The height H1 can extend fully between the first lateral edge 130 and the baffle floor 104A. In other examples, H1 may extend partially between the first lateral edge 130 and the baffle floor 104A. The front baffle sidewalls 108B-C may also have a height that generally extends between the first and second lateral edges 130,132 of the shell 120, and parallel to the first and second vertical edges 126,128. The height H1 may be the same for all front baffle sidewalls 108A, 108B, and 108C or they may be different. Front baffle sidewalls 108D, 108E, and 108F in row 106B each have a height H2 that extends longitudinally between the baffle floors 104A and 104B. Front baffle sidewalls 108G, 108H, and 1081 each have a height H3 that extends between baffle floor 104B and baffle floor 104C. Baffle sidewalls 108J, 108K, and 108L each have a height H4 that extends between baffle floor 104C and second lateral edge 132.

The individual respective heights of the sidewall baffles in a particular row 106A, B, C, or D may be the same or they may differ. For example, the heights H3 of baffle sidewalls 108D-F relative to one another may be the same; the heights H4 of baffle sidewalls 108G-I relative to one another may all be the same; and the heights H4 of baffle sidewalls 108J-L relative to one another may be the same. In other examples, the heights of the baffle sidewalls in any one row may differ. For example, H1 of the front baffle sidewalls can differ from height H1 of the front baffle sidewall 108B. Additionally, the heights of the sidewalls in different rows may be the same or differ. For example, heights H2 of one or more baffle sidewalls in row 106B and heights H4 of one or more baffle sidewalls in row 106D may have the same length, but heights H3 of baffle sidewalls in row 106C may differ. Similarly, the height H1 (discussed above) of baffle sidewalls in row 106A may have a length that is greater than or less than one or more heights H2, H3 or H4 of baffle sidewalls in rows 106B-D. In the same example where the length L of the comforter is 98 inches and the width W of the comforter is 94 inches, the height H1 of the front baffle sidewall 108A may be 24.5 inches, but in other examples, the height H1 may be greater than 24.5 inches or less than 24.5 inches.

The heights of the rear sidewalls may be similar to the front sidewalls. The rear baffle sidewalls 110A, 110B, and 110C, shown in FIG. 4, can have a height H6 that extends from the first lateral edge 130 to the baffle floor 104A. Rear baffle sidewalls 110D, 110E, and 110F extend longitudinally between baffle floor 104a and 104b, and have a height H2 defined by the length of the rear baffle sidewalls 110D-110F between the baffle floor 104A and 104B. Similarly, rear baffle sidewalls 110G, 110H, and 1101 extend between baffle floor 104B and baffle floor 104C and have a height H7 defined by the length the rear baffle sidewalls 110G-I extend between the baffle floor 104B and 104D. Rear baffle sidewalls 110J,110K,11L extend between floor 104C and second lateral edge 132 and have a height H8 defined by the length the rear baffle sidewalls 110J-110L extends between the floor 104C and second lateral edge 132. As with regard to the height H1 of the baffle sidewalls in the front interior portion 158, the heights of the rear baffle sidewalls in the rear interior portion 160 may be the same for all sidewalls 110A-L or they may be different. The heights may further vary relative to one another as discussed with regard to the heights H1-H4 of the front baffle sidewalls. In the example shown, the heights H1 and H2 are shown to be generally equal in size. In other examples, the heights (H1-H4) of one or more front baffle sidewalls 108A-108L may vary relative to the heights (H5-H8) of the rear baffle sidewalls 110A-110L. In the same example where the length L of the comforter is 98 inches and the width W of the comforter is 94 inches, the height H1 of the rear baffle sidewall 110A may be 24.5 inches, but in other examples, the height H1 may be greater than 24.5 inches or less than 24.5 inches.

The number of baffle sidewalls present in each row of the front interior portion may be equal to the number of baffle sidewalls present in each row of the rear interior portion. In this example, at least three front baffle sidewalls are positioned within each row 106A-106D of the front interior portion 158 (FIGS. 1 and 3) and three baffle sidewalls are positioned within each rows 106E-106H of the rear interior portion 160. Alternatively, the number of baffle sidewalls relative to the front baffle sidewalls can vary. There may be additional baffle sidewalls in both the front and rear interior portions 158,160. There may be more baffle sidewalls in the front interior portion 158 relative to the rear interior portion 160 and vice versa. For example, the rear interior portion 160 may include one or more additional baffle sidewalls, such as additional sidewall positioned between the rear sidewall 110C and second vertical edge 128. Furthermore, the number of baffle sidewalls in one of the rows 106A-106H can vary with respect to one or more other rows.

A plurality of chambers can be formed in each of the rows 106A-D in the front interior portion 158, as well as in each of the rows 106E-H in the rear interior portion 160. As shown in FIG. 3, a plurality of chambers 115A-115L are formed in the front interior portion 158 and as shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of chambers 117A-117L are formed in the rear interior portion 160. The boundaries of the plurality of chambers can be formed by the baffle sidewalls, the baffle floors, the intermediate fabric, the first and second lateral edges 130,132, and the first and second vertical edges 126,128. For example, the intermediate fabric 150 can form a first front wall for each of the respective chambers 115A-115P and the opposed first fabric 122 forms a second opposed wall. Similarly, the intermediate fabric 150 forms a first front wall of the respective chambers 117A-117C and the second fabric 124 forms a second opposed wall. The top edges of the chambers 115A-115D and 117A-117D can be defined by the first lateral edge 130 of the shell 120 and the bottom edges of the chambers 115A-115D and 117A-117D are defined by floor 104A.

The lateral edges of the plurality of chambers can be formed by at least one of the front and rear baffle sidewalls. Lateral edges of chambers 115A-115L provided between the first fabric 122 and the intermediate fabric 150 can be defined by at least one of the front baffle sidewalls, and the lateral edges of the chambers 117A-117L provided between the second fabric 124 and the intermediate fabric 150 can be defined by at least one of the rear baffle sidewalls. As shown in row 106A and FIG. 2, the lateral edges of chamber 115A are defined by the vertical edge 126 of the shell 120 and the front baffle sidewall 108A; the lateral edges of the chamber 115B are defined by front baffle sidewalls 109A and 109B; the lateral edges of the chamber 115C are defined by front baffle sidewalls 109B and 109C; and the lateral edges of the chamber 115D are defined by front baffle sidewall 108C and the second vertical edge 128. Similarly, in row 106E of the rear interior portion 160, the lateral edges of the chambers 117A, 117B, 117C, and 117D are defined by the rear baffle sidewalls. The lateral edges of chamber 117A are defined by the first vertical edge 126 and the rear baffle sidewall 110A; the lateral edges of chamber 117B are defined by rear baffle sidewalls 110A and 110B; the lateral edges of chamber 117C can be defined by rear baffle sidewalls 110B and 110C; and, the lateral edges of the chamber 117D can be defined by rear baffle sidewalls 110C and the second vertical edge 126 of the shell 120.

Similar chambers can be formed throughout each of the rows 106B-H in the front and rear interior portions 158,160 of the fabric shell 120. As shown in FIG. 3, chambers 115E-H are formed within row 106B of the front interior portion 158 of the fabric shell 120; chambers 115I-115L are formed within row 106C; and chambers 115M-115P are formed within row 106D. As shown in FIG. 4, chambers 117E-H can be formed within row 106F of the front interior portion 158 of the fabric shell 120; chambers 117I-117L can be formed within row 106G; and chambers 117M-117P can be formed within row 106H. The chambers in the fabric shell can be generally rectangular in shape, but in other examples, the chambers can take on other desired shapes, such as a square. The number of chambers can increase or decrease depending on the number of desired chambers. For example, greater or fewer baffle sidewalls can be implemented to increase or decrease the number of chambers. Similarly, additional or fewer baffle floor can be used to vary the number of chambers.

The lateral edges of the chambers 115A-115P in the front interior portion 158 of the fabric shell 120 can be offset relative to the lateral edges of the chambers 117A-117P in the rear interior portion 160 of the fabric shell 120. As shown, for example, in FIGS. 2-3, the chambers 115A-115D in the front interior portion 158 are alternating or offset relative to the chambers 117A-117D in the rear interior portion 160. Since the rear baffle sidewalls are offset relative to the front baffle sidewalls, the rear baffle sidewalls of the chambers 117A, 117B, 117C and 117D in the rear interior portion 160 are not aligned with or positioned directly behind the front baffle sidewalls of the chambers 115A, 115B, 115C, and 115D in the front interior portion 158. This allows the chambers 117B and 117C of the rear interior portion to be offset relative to chambers 115B and 115C in the front interior portion 158.

The remaining chambers 115E-115O in each of respective rows 106B-106D of the front interior portion can also be offset relative to the chambers 117E-117O in rows 106B-106D of the rear interior portion 160. Alternatively, in other examples, one or more chambers in a particular row 106A-106H may be offset or staggered whereas other rows are not. For example, the baffle sidewalls of rows 106A and 106C may include chambers in the front interior portion 158 that are aligned with the chambers in the rear interior portion 160, whereas the chambers of rows 106B and 106D may be staggered and not aligned with one another. One or more rows in the front interior portion 158 may instead include front baffle sidewalls that are aligned with rear baffle sidewalls in the counterpart rear interior portion 160, such as in traditional baffle box comforters. In still other examples, only one row of alternating baffle sidewalls may be used and the remaining baffle sidewalls in the other rows of the comforter may be aligned.

Floor openings can be provided in each of the chambers to allow for the fill material to reach all areas and chambers of the comforter. Openings 182, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, can be provided within each of the floors 104A, 104B, 104C, 104D adjacent the front sidewalls 108A-L and the rear sidewalls 110A-L. With reference first to FIG. 2, openings 182 are disposed within the floor 104A of each chamber 115A-115D in the front interior portion 158 and openings 182 are disposed within the floor 104A of each chamber 117A-D in the rear interior portion 160. The openings 182 may be positioned adjacent each of the baffle sidewalls and extend between the first fabric 122 and the intermediate fabric 150. As shown, chamber 115A includes an opening 182 adjacent the front baffle sidewall 108A; chamber 115B includes an opening 182 adjacent the front baffle sidewall 108B; chamber 115C includes an opening 182 adjacent the front baffle sidewall 108C; and chamber 115D includes an opening 182 that is also adjacent the front baffle sidewall 108C. Similarly, openings in the rear interior chamber 160 may extend between the second fabric 124 and the intermediate fabric 150. Chamber 117A in the rear interior portion 160 includes an opening 182 adjacent the rear baffle sidewall 110A; chamber 117B includes an opening 182 adjacent the rear baffle sidewall 110B; chamber 117C includes an opening 182 adjacent the rear baffle sidewall 110C; and chamber 117D includes an opening 182 that is also adjacent the rear baffle sidewall 110C.

The openings can additionally or alternatively be positioned elsewhere within the floor of the chamber, such as spaced further away from the baffle sidewalls or in the middle of a chamber. Some or all of the openings 182 may not fully extend between the intermediate fabric and the first fabric 122 or may not fully extend between the intermediate fabric 150 and the second fabric 124. Further, the openings 182 may be flapped openings where a flap of material is attached to the baffle sidewall or baffle floor and can be opened or closed to allow for filling of the respective chambers.

As shown in FIG. 3, openings 182 may also be provided in the remaining chambers 115E-115P of the front interior portion 158. The openings in each of the rows can be aligned with openings 182 present in each adjacent row in the front interior portion 158. With reference to FIG. 4, openings 182 can also be provided in the chambers 117E-P of the rear interior portion 160. Each of the openings 182 in row 106A can be aligned with the openings 182 present in each adjacent row in the rear interior portion 160.

Fill material can be introduced into the fabric shell 120 through each of the openings in the chambers. In one example, a filling machine can introduce fill material into the fabric shell 120 row-by-row in the front interior portion 158 and row-by-row rear interior portion 160. Nozzles of a filling machine (not shown) may extend through the openings 182 adjacent each of the baffle sidewalls in the front interior portion 158 and rear interior portion 160. The filling machine may first fill the chambers 115M-P in row 106 D, as well as chambers 117M-P in row 106H. The nozzles in the front interior portion 158 can then be retracted into row 106C, where each of chambers 115I-L is filled with fill material. The nozzles in the rear interior portion 160 can be simultaneously or subsequently retracted into row 106G, where each of chambers 117I-L is filled. When row 106C is completed, the nozzles can be retracted into row 106B and each of the chambers 115E-H can be filled. Each of the chambers 117D-H can be filled when the nozzles in the rear interior portion 160 are positioned within row 106F. Finally, the nozzles can be drawn into row 115A and each of chambers 115A-115D can be filled. Similarly, each of the chambers 117A-117D can be filled in row 117A. Openings may alternatively or additionally be present in each of the baffle sidewalls to allow the nozzles of a filling machine to extend through the openings in the baffle sidewalls. This can allow for column-by-column filling in a similar manner.

The fill material in the front interior chamber 158 may be the same or different that the fill material in the rear interior chamber 160. For example, as shown in FIG. 5A, a top plan view of the baffle box comforter 200 open at one end and closed at the other, the fill material 180 is disposed within the front interior portion 158 and fill material 181 is disposed within the rear interior portion 160. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 5B, the fill material 180′ in the front interior chamber 158′ is different than the fill material 181′ in the rear interior chamber 160′.

With reference to FIG. 5A, the staggered arrangement of the baffle sidewalls, as well as the intermediate fabric, can help to reduce cold spots. Fill material F positioned in the chambers 117A-D of the rear interior portion 160 can be positioned behind each of the front baffle sidewalls 110A-110C. Potential cold seeping through the first fabric 122 and baffle sidewall 110A in the front interior portion 158 will encounter both the intermediate fabric 150, as well as the fill material in chamber 117B, which is positioned directly behind baffle sidewall 110A. Potential cold seeping through the second fabric 124 and rear baffle sidewall 110A in the rear interior portion 160 will encounter the intermediate sidewall 150, as well as the fill material in chamber 115A of the front interior portion 158. This arrangement is the same for each of the staggered baffle sidewalls in the front interior portion 158 and the rear interior portion 160. Providing the intermediate fabric 150 and the staggered baffle sidewalls throughout the fabric shell 120 can therefore help to reduce the presence of cold spots in the baffle box comforter.

In an alternative example, as shown in FIG. 5B, a first fill material F1 may be used in the front portion and a second fill material F2 may be provided in a second portion. The first and second fill materials may be different fill materials.

FIGS. 6-7A present an alternative example baffle comforter 100′, where similar reference numerals are used to identify similar elements. In this example, the baffle comforter 100′ includes a fabric shell 120′ with first and second outer fabrics 122′124′ and an intermediate fabric 150′ disposed between the first and second outer fabrics 122′124′. As in the previous example, the respective first ends 107A′-107L′ of the front baffle sidewalls 108A-108D may be offset with respect to the respective first ends 111A′-111L′ of the rear baffle sidewalls 110A′-110L′. This example differs, however, with regard to the arrangement of the baffle sidewalls. In particular, as shown in FIG. 7A, the second ends 109A′-109CC′ of the front baffle sidewalls 108A′-C′ may instead be aligned with the respective second ends 113A′-113C′ of the rear baffle sidewalls 110A′-110C′ so that the second ends 109A′-109C′ of the front baffle sidewalls 108A′-108C′ are not spaced apart from the rear baffle sidewalls 110A′-110C′. In still another alternative example, as shown in FIG. 7B, individual baffle sidewalls 108A″, 108B″, and 108C″ may extend directly through the intermediate fabric 150″. The first end 107A″ of the baffle sidewall 108A″ may be attached to the first fabric 122″ and the second end 109A″ of the baffle sidewall 108″ may be attached to the second fabric 124″.

With reference to FIGS. 8-13, where similar reference numerals are used to identify similar features, an alternative baffle box comforter 200 is shown. The example baffle box comforter 200 is similar to the previous examples, such as shown in FIGS. 1-7A, but includes an alternative baffle sidewall configuration. Baffle box comforter 200 includes a fabric shell 220 filled with a bedding or fill material. The fabric shell 220 may include a first fabric 222, a second fabric 224 (FIG. 9), baffle floors 204A, 204B, 204C, and 204D, and baffle sidewalls 208A-L. As shown in FIG. 8, first and second vertical edges 226, 228, as well as first and second lateral edges 230, 232 of the fabric shell 220 form the outermost edges of the fabric shell 220 and comforter 200. The components of the fabric shell 220, including first and second fabrics 220, 224, the front baffle sidewalls 208A-208L, the baffle floors 204A-204C, and the fill material, may be comprised of the same materials previously discussed herein.

Baffle floors 204A-204D are shown spaced apart from one another. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, a cross sectional view taken along line D-D of FIG. 8, baffle floors 204A-204D are shown extending between the first fabric 222 and second fabric 224. As shown, first end 201A of baffle floor 204A is attached to a first portion P1 of the first fabric 222. The second end 205A of the baffle floor 204A is attached to a second portion P2 of the second fabric 224. As shown, portion P1, where the respective first end 201A is attached to the first fabric 220, and the portion P2, where the respective second end 205A is attached to the second fabric 224, are aligned with one another and extend along a same horizontal plane H. The baffle floors 204A may further extend at an angle Ø_2A relative to the first fabric 222, as well as an angle Ø_2B relative to the second fabric 224. The baffle floor may have a width F extending between the first fabric 222 and second fabric 224. In an example where the comforter has a length L of 98 inches and a width W of 94 inches, the width F of the baffle floor may be 1 inch. In alternative examples, the width F may range from 0.50 inches to 3 inches. In still other examples, the width F may be less than 0.50 inches or greater than 3 inches.

Each of the remaining baffle floors 204B-D may also be similarly attached to the first and second fabrics 222, 224, such that the first ends 201B, 201C, and 291D are aligned with the second ends 205B, 205C, and 205D and extend along planes parallel to horizontal plane H. The baffle floors 204B-D may further extend at an angle Ø_2A relative to the first fabric 222, as well as an angle Ø_2B relative to the second fabric 224.

In this example, angles Ø_2A and Ø_2B are right angles or ninety degree angles, but in other examples, the angles may differ. For example, one or both ends of one or more baffle floors 204A-204C may extend at an angle greater than or less than ninety degrees, such that one or more baffle floors are not perpendicular to the first and second fabrics 222, 224. In still other examples, the angles Ø_2A of a first end and the angle Ø_2B of the second end of one baffle floor may differ relative to the angles of another floor or relative to each other.

Baffle sidewalls 208A-208L extend longitudinally along the vertical length L of the first fabric 222 and the second fabric 224. As shown in FIG. 8, the baffle sidewalls 208A-208L can intersect the baffle floors 204A-204C so as to form individual chambers defined by the baffle sidewalls 208A-208L and baffle floors 204A-204C. Rows 206A-206D are also formed by the baffle floors 204A-204D. The first and second fabrics 222, 224 may be secured together at their outermost ends by a seam 234 that joins each of the edges of the first and second fabrics 222,224 together. As shown, the seam 234 extends around the outer circumference of the fabric shell 220 to form an outer perimeter 236. In this example, floor 204D coincides with the seam 236 extending along the second lateral edge 232 of the comforter 200, but in other examples, floor 204D can be omitted such that the second lateral edge 232 acts as the floor when the first and second fabrics 222, 224 are sewn together. In an alternative example, the floor 204 can be spaced apart from the second lateral edge 232 so as to create a space between the second lateral edge 232 and floor 204.

FIG. 10 illustrates a top-plan view of the fabric shell 220 of the baffle box comforter 200 in an open position taken through line E-E of FIG. 8. For ease of illustration, fill material has been removed. In contrast to the prior examples, baffle box comforter 200 does not include an intermediate fabric. Instead, as shown, each of the baffle sidewalls, including baffle sidewalls 208A-208C, can extend between the first fabric 222 and second fabric 224. In this example, the baffle sidewalls 208A-208C are shown extending the entire or full distance between the first and second fabrics 222, 224, but in other examples, one or more of the baffle sidewalls 208A-208L may only partially extend between the first and second fabrics 222, 224. First ends 207A-207C of the sidewalls 208A-208C may be attached to the interior surface 223 of the first fabric 222 and second ends of the sidewalls 208A-208C are attached to the interior surface 225 of the second fabric 224. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 11, a perspective view of the fabric shell 220 of the comforter 220 without fill, first ends 207D-L of the remaining sidewalls 208D-208L are attached to the interior surface 223 of the first fabric 224. Second ends 209D-L of the sidewalls 208D-208L are attached to the interior surface 225 of the second fabric 224. FIG. 10A shows an enlarged section of FIG. 10. For ease of illustration and to focus on the features of the baffle sidewalls, the openings in the baffle floor are not shown in this enlarged view. In the example where the baffle box comforter has a length L of 98 inches, and a width W of 94 inches, the length or distance D of the baffle sidewalls 208A-208L may be 2.75 inches, but in other examples, D may range between 1 inch and 4 inches. Day alternatively be at least 1 inch; greater than 1 inch; greater than 4 inches; or D may be less than 1 inch.

The first ends and second ends of the baffle sidewalls may be offset from one another, such that the first and second ends do not align with one another. As shown, for example, in FIG. 10, first end 207C of baffle sidewall 208C is attached to the first fabric 222 at a point or portion P3 that is laterally offset along the portion P4 where the second end 209C is attached to the second fabric 224. The lateral offset can be in a direction that is between the first vertical edge 226 and the second vertical edge 228 of the shell 220. The first end 207C and second end 209C therefore do not extend along a same plane I that extends perpendicular to the first and second fabrics 222, 224. The first end 207C of baffle sidewall 208C may be offset a distance X5 away from the second end 209C of the baffle sidewall 208C. In the example where the length L of the comforter 200 is 98 inches and the width W is 94 inches, the distance X5 may be 2.5 inches, but in other examples, X5 may range from 0.25 to 6 inches; X5 may be at least 0.25 inches; X5 may be greater than 0.25 inches; X5 may be less than 0.25 inches; or X5 may fall outside of the range.

Each of the baffle sidewalls 208A-208B, as well as 208D-208L can include respective first ends 207A-207B and 207D-207L also have a points of attachment P3 to the first fabric 222 and are laterally offset a predetermined distance relative to the point of attachment P4 to the second fabric for the respective second ends 209A-209B and 209D-209L. For instance, as shown in FIG. 8, first end 207B of baffle sidewall 208B may be offset relative to the second end 209B by a distance X3, as well as offset relative to the second end 209C of directly adjacent baffle wall 208C by a distance X4. First end 207A can be offset relative to the second end 209A by a distance X1 and offset relative to the second end 209B of directly adjacent baffle wall 208B by a distance X2. The distances or lengths X1, X2, X3, X4 may be a distance that is the same or similar to X5. In alternative examples, however, one or more of the lengths X1-X5 may differ from one another. Each of the first and second ends of the remaining sidewalls 208D-208L in each of rows 206B, 206C, and 206D may be similarly positioned, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 11. In some examples, instead of selecting a certain pre-set displacement between the first and second ends of the baffle sidewalls, the first ends of the baffle sidewalls may be attached to the first fabric 220 so that the baffle sidewalls are evenly spaced across the width W of the comforter. The second ends of the baffle sidewalls may be similarly positioned so that they are also equally spaced across the width W of the comforter; are evenly spaced away from one another, or spaced apart from one another in differing amounts. In still other examples, the comforter 200 may include baffle sidewalls that have ends displaced relative to one another, as well as baffle sidewalls that are no may be displaced whereas the ends of other baffle walls are not.

Baffle sidewall 208C can further extend at an angle Ø₃ relative to the interior surface 223 of the first fabric 222 and the second end. With reference back to FIG. 10, as well as the enlarged view of FIG. 10A, an angle Ø_3A is formed by the baffle sidewall where the baffle sidewall is joined to the first fabric panel 222 may be an acute angle that is less than 90 degrees. In some examples, Ø_3A can range from 1 to 90 degrees. In other examples, Ø_3A may be greater than 90 degrees; Ø_3A may be less than 90 degrees; or Ø_3A may be less than 1 degree. Similarly, Ø_3B may be an acute angle that is complementary to Ø_3A, such that the combination of Ø_3A and Ø_3B add up to ninety degrees. It is to be appreciated that the angles Ø_3A and Ø_3B can be dependent upon the amount of fill present in the comforter 200 and movement of the first fabric 222 and the second fabric 224. In this regard, angles Ø_3A and Ø_3B can vary after the first and second ends of the sidewalls are fixed to the respective first and second fabric panels 222, 224. Further, each of the baffle sidewalls 208D-208L may also be positioned at acute angles relative to the first and second baffle sidewalls, as well as relative to the first and second ends of the baffle sidewalls 208D-208L. In this example, each of the baffle sidewalls extend away from the first baffle sidewall at angles that are equal to one another, but in other examples, one or more of the baffle sidewalls 208A-208L may extend at angles that differ from one another.

The first end of one or more front baffle sidewalls may be aligned with the first end of another front baffle sidewall in an adjacent row or a row this directly below or directly above the baffle sidewall. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, in row 206A, first end 207A of front baffle sidewall 208A, which extends between first floor 204A and the top edge 223, may be aligned with first end 207D of front baffle sidewall 208B in row 206B. First end 207D may similarly extend between the first and second floors 204A, 204B. Similarly, the ends 207G and 207J of respective front baffle sidewalls 208G and 208J in respective rows 206C and 206D may be aligned with one another, as well as the first ends 207A, 207D of baffle sidewalls 208A and 208D. Respective ends 207B, 207E, 207H and 207K of respective front baffle sidewalls 208B, 208E, 208H, and 208K may also be aligned with one another. Finally, respective first ends 207C, 207F, 207I, and 207 L of respective baffle sidewalls 208C, 208F, 208I, and 208L may also be aligned with one another. In other examples, one or more of the baffle sidewalls in one row may be spaced apart from the baffle sidewall in the directly adjacent sidewall, such that one or more baffle sidewalls in the two adjacent rows are not aligned with one another and do not form a continuous baffle sidewall.

Baffle seams may be formed along the first fabric where the first ends of the baffle sidewalls are attached to the first fabric. In this example where the ends of the front baffle sidewalls are aligned with one another, baffle seams can extend continuously between the first lateral edge 223 and the second lateral edge 232 of the fabric shell 120. A first baffle seam 268 may be formed along the first fabric 222 where the first ends 207A, 208D, 208G, 208J of the respective front baffle sidewalls 208A, 208D, 208G, and 208J are attached to the first fabric 222. A second baffle seam 270 may be formed along the first fabric 222 where the aligned first ends 207B, 207E, 207H, and 207K of the front baffle sidewalls 208B, 208E, 208H and 208K are attached to the first fabric 222. Similarly, a third baffle seam 272 may be formed along the first fabric 222 where the first ends 207C, 207F, 207I, and 207L are attached to the first fabric 222.

Baffle seams may also be formed along the second fabric 224 where the second ends of the baffle sidewalls are attached to the second fabric 224. Baffle seam 274 may be formed along the second fabric 224 where the second ends 209A, 209D, 209G, 209J are attached to the second fabric 224. A baffle seam 276 may be formed along the second fabric 224 where the second ends 209B, 209E, 209H, 209k are attached to the second fabric 224. A baffle seam 276 may be formed along the second fabric 224 where the second ends 209B, 209E, 209H, 209K are attached to the second fabric 224. A baffle seam 278 may be formed along the second fabric 224 where the second ends 209C, 209F, 2091, 209L are attached to the second fabric 224.

The baffle seams along the first fabric may be offset or staggered relative to the baffle seams along the second fabric. As shown in FIG. 8, front baffle seam 268 at the first fabric 222 is offset relative to the rear baffle seam 274 at the second fabric 224 by a distance X1, as well as offset relative to rear baffle seam 276 by a distance X2. Front baffle seam 270 can be offset relative to rear baffle seam 276 by a distance X3, as well as offset relative to rear baffle seam 278 by a distance X4. Front baffle seam 272 can be offset relative to the rear baffle seam 278 by a distance X5.

It is to be appreciated that in other examples, instead of a plurality of baffle sidewalls forming a continuous baffle seam, a single continuous baffle sidewall can replace he plurality of sidewalls. The single continuous baffle sidewall may extend fully between the first lateral edge 230 and the second lateral edge 232 and intersect each of the floors 204A-L. The second lateral edge may, for example, include openings that accommodate each of the floors 204A-L. This can simplify the manufacturing process by requiring only three elongated sidewalls, as opposed to a plurality of sidewalls.

Floor openings can be provided in each of the chambers to allow for the fill material to reach all areas and chambers of the comforter. Openings 282, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, can be provided within each of the floors 204A, 204B, 204C and 204D and adjacent each of the respective sidewalls 208A-L. For instance, at least one opening 282 may be disposed within the floor 204A of each chamber 215A-215D. The openings 282 may be positioned adjacent each of the baffle sidewalls and extend fully between the first fabric 222 and the intermediate fabric 250. As shown, chamber 215A includes an opening 282 adjacent the baffle sidewall 208A; chamber 215B includes an opening 282 adjacent the baffle sidewall 208B; chamber 215C includes an opening 282 adjacent the baffle sidewall 208C; and chamber 215D includes an opening 282 that is also adjacent the baffle sidewall 208C. In other examples, the openings may be positioned elsewhere within the floor of the chamber, such as further away from the baffle sidewalls. Additionally, the openings may not fully extend between the intermediate fabric and the first fabric 122 or between the intermediate fabric 150 and the second fabric 124. Further, the openings may be flapped openings where a same or different material comprising the respective floors is attached to the sidewall and covers the openings 182. The flaps can be opened or closed to allow for filling of the respective chambers. Although not required, the openings 182 in each row may be aligned with the openings 182 in the directly adjacent row.

As in the previous example, the offset first and second ends of the baffle sidewalls can help to minimize cold spots. Fill material can be provided behind each of the baffle seams. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, a top plan viewing showing the comforter with fill, any cold seeping through the first fabric 222 at any of the front seams 268, 270, 272 will encounter fill material, as well as at the intersection of the front seams 268, 270, 272 with the respective floors 204A, 204B, and 204C. Similarly, cold seeping through the second fabric 224 at any of the rear seams 274, 276, and 278 will encounter fill material in the chambers.

FIGS. 13-15 illustrate another alternative embodiment according to aspects of the present disclosure. This example is otherwise identical to the embodiment of FIGS. 8-12, except that in addition to the baffle sidewalls being offset from one another, the baffle floors are also offset from one another. Since the features and discussion of baffle box comforter 200 in FIGS. 8-11, including alternative examples, are equally applicable here (and vice versa), the discussion of baffle box comforter 300 will focus on the features of the baffle floors 304A-304C.

Baffle box comforter 300 can include a fabric shell 220′ filled with a bedding material. The fabric shell 220′ can be an outer shell that holds the bedding or fill material. The fabric shell 220′ may include a first fabric 222′, a second fabric 224′ (FIG. 14), baffle floors 304A, 304B, 304C, and 304D, and baffle sidewalls 208A′-L′. As shown in FIG. 13, first and second vertical edges 226′, 228′, as well as first and second lateral edges 230′, 232′ of the fabric shell 220′ form the outermost edges of the fabric shell 220′ and comforter 300. The components of the fabric shell 220′, including the front baffle sidewalls 208A′-208L′, baffle floors 304A-304D, and first and second fabrics 220′,224′, as well as the fill material, may be comprised of the same materials discussed herein. The first and second fabrics 222′, 224′ may be secured together at their outermost ends by a seam 234′ that joins each of the edges of the first and second fabrics 222′, 224′ together. As shown, the seam 234′ extends around the outer circumference of the fabric shell 220′ to form an outer perimeter 236′.

Baffle floors 304A-304D may be spaced apart from one another, as shown in FIG. 14. Each of the baffle floors 304A-304D can extend between the first and second vertical edges 226′, 228′, as well as the first and second lateral edges 230′, 232′ to create horizontal rows 206A′, 206B′, 206C′, 206D′. In this example, the baffle floors 304A-304C are evenly spaced apart from one another, but in other examples, one or more of the baffle floors 304A-304D may be closer to or further away from the directly adjacent baffle floor.

Baffle floors 304A-304D intersect each of the baffle sidewalls 208A′-208L′ that extend longitudinally along the vertical length of the first fabric 222′ and the second fabric 224′ and between the first lateral edge 230′ and second lateral edge 232′. Individual chambers are formed and defined by the intersection of the baffle sidewalls 208A′-208L′ and baffle floors 304A-304C. For instance, as shown in the front perspective view of FIG. 14, chamber 215A′ may be formed in the first row 206A′. Similarly, chambers 215B′-215C′ may be formed in first row 206A′. The bottom or base B of each of the chambers 215A′-215D′ may be defined by floor 304A and the top T of each of the chambers will be defined by the horizontal edge 230′ of the shell 220′, when the fabric shell is closed at its ends. At least one of the walls of each of the chambers 215A′-215D′ can be defined by one of the baffle sidewalls 208A′-208C. Chambers 215D′-215F′ may be formed in row 206B′. The base B of each of the chambers 215D′-215F′ will be defined by baffle floor 304B, whereas the ceiling or top T of chambers 215D′-215F′ will be defined by the directly adjacent baffle floor 304A. At least one of the sides of the chambers can be defined by baffle sidewalls 208D′-208F′. Chambers 215H′-215K′ extend in row 206C and each include a base B defined by baffle floor 304C and a top T defined by baffle floor 304B. Finally, chambers 215L′-215O′ are positioned within row 206D and include bases B that are defined by the baffle floor 304D a top T defined by baffle floor 304C.

The baffle floors are shown in this example as a single continuous baffle floor. For instance, baffle floor 304A is a continuous material extending linearly between the first and second vertical edges 222′, 236′, as well as between the first and second fabrics 222′, 224.′ Baffle floors 304B-304D can be arranged in the same way. In other examples, a plurality of baffle floors may be present in each row, such that the base B of each chamber may instead be comprised of a separate baffle floor from the baffle floor in the directly adjacent chamber in the same row. The baffle floors in any given row may be aligned with one another to form a continuous seam extending between the first and second vertical edges 224′, 226′. In other examples, the baffle floors in a given row may not be aligned with one another. In such examples, the baffle floor in one chamber can be spaced apart from the laterally adjacent baffle floor in the directly adjacent chamber or a chamber in the same row.

As shown in FIG. 15, a cross sectional view taken along line F-F of FIG. 13, baffle floors 304A-304C are shown extending between the first fabric 222′ and second fabric 224′. The first end 301A of the baffle floor 304A can extend along the first fabric 222′ and forms a front seam 303A (FIG. 13) that extends horizontally or laterally between the first and second vertical edges 226′, 228′. The second end 305A of the baffle floor 304A extends along a horizontal length of the second fabric 224′ and forms a rear seam 319A. Similarly, the respective first ends 301B, 301C, 301D of the baffle floors 304B-D extend along a horizontal length of the first fabric 222′ and form respective seams 303B, 303C, and 303D (FIG. 13). Seam 303D can also coincide with the seam of the first and second fabrics 222′, 224′. Additionally, each of the respective second ends 305B-305D of the baffle floors 304B-304C also extend along the second fabric 224′ and form respective rear seams 319B-319C.

The first ends and the second ends of the baffle floors may be offset from one another. As shown, for example, in FIG. 15, the first end 301A of baffle floor 304A is vertically offset from the second end 305A of the baffle floor 304A, such that the first and second ends do not extend along a same plane J that extends perpendicular to the first and second fabrics 222′,224′. For instance, the portion P5 where the first end 301A of the baffle floor 304A is attached to the first fabric may be offset a distance Y1 away from the portion P6 where the second end 305A of the baffle floor 304A is attached to the second fabric. In one example, where the length L of the comforter is 98 inches and the width of the comforter is 94 inches, the distance Y1 may be 2.5 inches, but in other examples, Y1 may range from 0.25 to 16 inches; Y1 may be at least 0.25 inches; Y1 may be less than 0.25 inches; or Y1 may be greater than 16 inches. The baffle floor 304A can further slope an angle Ø_4A from the first end 301A of the baffle floor 304A toward the second end 305A of the baffle floor 304A. The angle Ø_4A may be an acute angle that is less than 90 degrees. In some examples, Ø_4A can range from 1 to 90 degrees; Ø4A may be less than 1 degree; Ø_4A may be at least 1 degree; or Ø_4A may be greater than 90 degrees. As shown, each of the remaining baffle floors 304B-D may include respective first ends 301B-301D that are offset relative to the second ends 305B-305D by predetermined distances Y2-Y4. Baffle floors 304B-304D may also extend at respective angles Ø_4B, Ø_4C, Ø_4D towards the second material 224′.

Angle Ø_4E, can be formed where the baffle floor 304A extends from the second end 305 of the baffle floors 304A toward the first end or where the second end 305A is attached to the second fabric 224. Angle Ø_4E can be an angle complementary to corresponding angle Ø_4A, such that Ø_{4A and} Ø_4E add up to 90 degrees. Similarly, angles Ø_4F, Ø_4G, Ø_4H may be formed where the respective second ends of the baffle floors 304B, 304C, and 304D are joined to the second fabric 224.

In some examples, the distances Y1-Y4 may be the same, but in other examples, one or more distances Y1-Y4 may differ. Similarly, in some examples, the angles Ø4A, Ø4B, Ø4C, Ø4D may be the same, but in other examples, one or more angles Ø4A, Ø4B, Ø4C, Ø4D may differ. Similarly, the angles Ø4E, Ø4F, Ø4G, Ø4H may be the same, but in other examples, one or more angles Ø4E, Ø4F, Ø4G, Ø4H may differ from one another.

In the top plan view of the shell in an open position, as shown in FIG. 16, the baffle walls 208′-208C′ are shown in an orientation identical to the orientation of the baffle walls 208A-208C in FIGS. 8-10. As in the previous embodiment, the first ends 207A′-207C′ of the baffle sidewalls and the second ends 209A′-209C′ of the baffle sidewalls can be offset relative to one another. Similarly, the remaining baffle sidewalls 208D′-208L′ may have first and second ends that are offset relative to one another, as previously described. Additionally, as described with regard to FIGS. 10-10A, the baffle sidewalls 208A-208L may be angled or sloped. For instance, as shown, baffle sidewall 208C includes an angle Ø3_A′ and angle Ø3_B′, as in the previous embodiment.

Floor openings can be provided in each of the chambers to allow for the fill material to reach all areas and chambers of the comforter. Openings 282, as shown in FIG. 14, can be provided within each of the floors 304A, 304B, and 304C adjacent the baffle sidewalls 208A′-L′. As in the previous example, openings 282′ may be disposed within the floors 304A-304C of each chamber 215A′-215L′. The openings 282 may be positioned adjacent each of the baffle sidewalls and extend fully between the first fabric 222 and the intermediate fabric 250. In other examples, the openings may be positioned elsewhere within the floor of the chamber, such as further away from the baffle sidewalls. Additionally, the openings may not fully extend between the intermediate fabric and the first fabric 122′ or between the intermediate fabric 150′ and the second fabric 124′. Further, the openings may be flapped openings where a same or different material comprising the respective floors is attached to the sidewall and covers the openings 182. The flaps can be opened or closed to allow for filling of the respective chambers.

With reference to FIGS. 17-19, another example baffle comforter is shown. In this example, baffle comforter 400 includes features similar to the prior embodiments, except that only the baffle floor, and not the baffle sidewalls, include ends that are offset relative to one another. Comforter 400 includes baffle floors 404A, 404B, 404C, and 404D. Additionally, a plurality of baffle sidewalls 209A″-209L″ are illustrated. As shown in FIGS. 17-18, baffle floor 304A′ include a respective first ends 301A′ that is attached to the first fabric 222″ and a second end 305A′ attached to the second wall 224″. The first end 301A′ and second end 405A may be offset relative to one another, as previously described herein. Similarly, the first ends 301B′, 301C′, and 301D′ of baffle floors 304B′, 304C′, and 304D′ may be offset relative to each of their respective second ends 305B′, 305C′, 305D′. As shown in FIG. 19, the ends of the baffle sidewalls are not offset relative to one another, as in previous embodiments. Rather, each of the ends of the sidewalls 208A″-2081″ extend perpendicular to the first and second fabrics 222″, 224″, and along a same plane. In other examples, the sidewalls may be offset relative to one another so that they are not aligned with one another and a row of sidewalls may be offset with respect to the directly adjacent row of sidewalls.

FIGS. 20-21 illustrate yet another alternative arrangement to FIGS. 13-16. This example is identical to the embodiment of FIGS. 13-16, except that the comforter 500 further includes a gusset 510. For instance, as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, each of the baffle sidewalls 208A″′-208L″′ and each of the baffle floors 204A″′-204D″′ includes first and second ends that are offset relative to one another, as in the embodiment of FIGS. 13-16. Instead of the first and second fabrics 222″′, 224″′ being joined directly to one another, a gusset 510 may be disposed between the first fabric 222″′ and second fabric 224″′. In some examples, the gusset can allow the comforter 500 to maintain its fill up to the edge of the gusset 510.

In the examples discussed above, relative positions such as lateral, longitudinal, horizontal, vertical, top, bottom, and the like are used for reference only and are not intended to be limiting with respect to particular positions of the elements they are used to describe. It is to be appreciated that similar reference numerals were used to describe similar elements.

It is to be further appreciated that any dimensions for components of the example comforters were provided as an example, but that other dimensions can be implemented without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

Unless otherwise stated, the foregoing alternative examples are not mutually exclusive, but may be implemented in various combinations to achieve unique advantages. As these and other variations and combinations of the features discussed above can be utilized without departing from the subject matter defined by the claims, the foregoing description of the embodiments should be taken by way of illustration rather than by way of limitation of the subject matter defined by the claims. In addition, the provision of the examples described herein, as well as clauses phrased as “such as,” “for example,” “including” and the like, should not be interpreted as limiting the subject matter of the claims to the specific examples; rather, the examples are intended to illustrate only one of many possible embodiments.

Claims

1. A comforter comprising:

a first fabric panel and a second fabric panel joined together at their respective outer edges and forming an outer perimeter of the comforter, the outer perimeter including first and second vertical edges and first and second lateral edges, the first and second lateral edges extending between the first and second vertical edges and in a direction perpendicular to the first and second vertical edges; and

a baffle floor extending between the first and second vertical edges, the baffle floor having a first end attached to the first fabric panel and a second end attached to the second fabric panel,

wherein the first end of the baffle floor is attached to the first fabric at a first position and the second end of the baffle floor is attached to the second fabric panel at a second position, the first and second positions being vertically spaced apart from one another in a direction extending between the first and second lateral edges.

2. The comforter of claim 1, further comprising a baffle sidewall extending in a direction between the first and second lateral edges, the baffle sidewall having a first end attached to the first fabric panel and a second end attached to the second fabric panel, wherein the first end of the baffle sidewall is attached to the first fabric at a third position and the second end of the baffle sidewall is attached to the second fabric panel at a fourth position, the third and fourth positions being laterally spaced apart from one another in a direction extending between the first and second vertical edges.

3. The comforter of claim 1, wherein the first end of the baffle floor is spaced apart from the second end of the baffle floor by a length of at least 0.25 inches.

4. The comforter of claim 2, wherein the baffle floor has a slope ranging from 0 to 90 degrees.

5. The comforter of claim 1, wherein the first fabric panel is comprised of a first material and the baffle floor is comprised of a different material than the first fabric panel.

6. The comforter of claim 5, wherein the different material is a mesh material.

7. The comforter of claim 2, further comprising a plurality of chambers, wherein the baffle floor forms a row, and the baffle sidewall is a plurality of baffle sidewalls positioned within the first row, each of the plurality of baffle sidewalls having a first end attached to the first fabric panel and a second end attached to the second fabric panel, the plurality of chambers formed by the intersection of the plurality of sidewalls and the baffle floor.

8. The comforter of claim 7, further comprising a fill material positioned within each of the plurality of chambers.

9. The comforter of claim 8, wherein the fill material includes a first fill material and a second fill material, the first fill material being in at least one of the plurality of chambers and the second fill material being in at least one other of the plurality of chambers, the first and second fill being the same.

10. The comforter of claim 2, wherein the first end of the baffle floor is closer to the second vertical edge than the second end of the baffle floor, and wherein the first end of the baffle sidewall is closer to the first vertical sidewall than the second end of the baffle sidewall.

11. A method of manufacturing a comforter comprising:

positioning a baffle floor between a first fabric panel and second fabric panel;

attaching a first end of the baffle floor to the first fabric panel at a first position and a second end of the second baffle floor to the second fabric panel at a second position so that the first position and the second position are spaced apart from one another in a vertical direction extending between a first lateral edge and a second lateral edge of the first fabric panel;

positioning a baffle sidewall between a first fabric panel and second fabric panel so that the baffle sidewall intersects the baffle floor;

attaching a first end of the baffle sidewall to the first fabric panel at a third point and a second end of the second baffle sidewall to the second fabric panel at a fourth point so that the third point and the fourth point are spaced apart from one another in a lateral direction extending between a first vertical edge and a second vertical edge of the first fabric panel, the first and second vertical edges extending in a direction perpendicular to the first and second lateral edges.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising forming at least one chamber by positioning the baffle sidewall adjacent the baffle floor so as to form an intersection between the baffle sidewall and the baffle floor.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising filling the chamber with a fill material.

14. The method of claim 11, wherein the first point is closer to the first lateral edge than the second point.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the third point is closer to the first vertical edge than the fourth point.

16. A comforter comprising:

a first fabric panel and a second fabric panel joined together at their outer edges and forming an outer perimeter of the comforter, the outer perimeter including first and second vertical edges and first and second lateral edges extending between the first and second vertical edges, the outer perimeter having a first dimension;

an intermediate fabric panel disposed between the first and second fabric panels, the intermediate fabric having outer edges joined to the outer edges of the first and second fabric panels, the intermediate fabric having a second dimension substantially equal to the first dimension;

a first baffle sidewall extending away from the intermediate fabric panel toward the first fabric panel; and

a second baffle sidewall extending away from the intermediate fabric panel toward the second fabric panel,

wherein the first baffle sidewall is attached to the intermediate fabric panel at a first position and the second baffle sidewall is attached to the intermediate fabric panel at a second position, the first and second positions being spaced apart from one another along the length of the intermediate fabric panel.

17. The comforter of claim 16, wherein the comforter further comprises first and second channels formed on opposed sides of the intermediate fabric panel, the first baffle sidewall being disposed within the first channel and the second baffle sidewall being disposed within the second channel.

18. The comforter of claim 17, further comprising a first fill within the first channel and a second fill in the second channel, the first and second fills being comprised of a same material.

19. The comforter of claim 17, further comprising a first fill within the first channel and a second fill in the second channel, the first and second fills being comprised of different materials.

20. The comforter of claim 16, wherein the first fabric panel, the second fabric panel, and the intermediate fabric panel are each comprised of a material that is the same, and wherein the first baffle sidewall and the second baffle sidewall are comprised of a different material than the same material, the different material being a mesh material.