FITTED ANCHOR AND SHEET SYSTEM

Abstract

In embodiments, a replaceable sheet system includes an upper portion to cover a sleeping surface of a mattress, and a lower portion, to anchor to the mattress. In embodiments, the upper portion is releasably attached to the lower portion, and the lower portion anchors to the mattress in a compression fit. In embodiments, the upper portion and the lower portion may be releasably attached by a zipper, which may be covered by fabric. In embodiments, each of the upper and lower portions include a short flap, which together cover the zipper when the upper and lower portions are zipped together.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation in part of PCT/2018/052715, entitled “SHEET REPLACEMENT SYSTEM”, filed on Sep. 25, 2018, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/563,008, filed on Sep. 25, 2017, the disclosure of each of which is hereby incorporated herein in its entirety as if fully set forth herein. This application further claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 69/929,415, entitled “FITTED ANCHOR AND SHEET SYSTEM”, which was filed on Nov. 1, 2019, the disclosure of which is also hereby incorporated herein in its entirety as if fully set forth herein.

BACKGROUND

Field

Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to fitted sheets, and, in particular, to fitted sheets divided into a fitted anchor portion and a replaceable top sheet portion, and also to such fitted sheet sets where a mattress cover is integrated with either the anchor or the top sheet.

Description of the Related Art

Conventional fitted sheets have a complex 3D shape that is designed to cover both the top and sides of a mattress, and then overhang or protrude to some extent on the underside of the mattress, this protrusion commonly known as being “tucked in underneath.” These conventional sheets have several problems. For example, a simple movement on top of the bed often results in the portion of the fitted sheet that protrudes under the mattress becoming dislodged and untucked. When this occurs, the entire sheet loosens, which results in a crinkled look on the sides and top of the bed as the sheet gradually loses its tautness. Additionally, the corners of a conventional fitted sheet tend to pop off of the corners on the underside of the mattress. Finally, in order to change the sheet, the entire mattress needs to be lifted off of its box spring or other support, which is cumbersome, and done one corner at a time. If the bed is placed in a corner of the room, with walls on two sides, to change the fitted sheet a person must sit on the bed, bend the mattress, and engage in awkward movements. However, even if this is done, it may be futile, as at corners near the wall the new sheet cannot be fully tucked under the mattress

SUMMARY

In one example, a replaceable sheet system is provided. The replaceable sheet system includes an upper portion to cover a top surface of a mattress and a lower portion, to anchor to a portion of the mattress. The upper portion is releasably attached to the lower portion. In one example, the lower portion further comprises an integrated mattress protector, provided adjacent to, and below, a top perimeter of the lower portion. In another example, the upper portion further comprises a moisture-proof layer provided under a bedding fabric layer.

In another example, a method of manufacturing a replaceable sheet system is provided. The method includes providing a top sheet portion to cover an upper surface of a mattress, and providing a fitted anchor portion, to anchor to a portion of the mattress, the fitted anchor portion including four side panels to respectively cover each of four sides of the mattress. In one example the method further includes releasably attaching the top sheet portion to the fitted anchor portion, and anchoring the fitted anchor portion to a portion of the mattress.

In yet another example, a system is provided. The system includes a mattress, and a replaceable sheet system installed on the mattress. The replaceable sheet system includes an upper portion to cover a top surface of a mattress and a lower portion, to anchor to a portion of the mattress. The upper portion is releasably attached to the lower portion, and the lower portion is anchored to the mattress.

In still another example, a replaceable sheet system is provided. The system includes an upper portion on which a user sleeps, and a fitted anchor portion, including an integrated moisture protector, to anchor to a portion of the mattress. The upper portion is releasably attached to the lower portion. In one example, the fitted anchor portion includes four side panels to respectively cover four corresponding sides of the mattress, and the integrated moisture protector is attached to a top portion of the fitted anchor portion, and is configured to lay on an upper surface of the mattress. In another example, the integrated moisture protector is sewn to the top portion of the fitted anchor portion.

In another example, the fitted anchor portion further includes one or more upper panels to cover at least a portion of an upper surface of the mattress, and wherein the integrated moisture protector is one of attached or releasably attached to the one or more upper panels of the fitted anchor portion.

In still another example, a fitted anchor for a replaceable sleeping surface is provided. The fitted anchor includes a mattress anchor, configured to anchor to a mattress, including, the mattress anchor including a mattress protector layer, an anchor portion, the anchor portion including four side panels to respectively cover each of four sides of the mattress and an attachment or a releasable attachment mechanism provided on a top boundary of the four side panels, configured to releasably attach to a sleeping surface to cover the mattress. The fitted anchor further includes a bottom portion to cover, at least in part, a bottom surface of the mattress.

In one example, the fitted anchor includes the sleeping surface releasably attached to the mattress anchor. In another example, the bottom portion of the mattress anchor covers the entire bottom surface of the mattress. In yet another example, the bottom portion of the mattress anchor includes an undertuck extension of each of the four side panels, each configured to tuck underneath the bottom surface of the mattress, and together define a periphery, and a central fabric releasably attached to the periphery.

In another example, the mattress protection layer is one of attached or releasably attached to the mattress anchor below the releasable attachment mechanism.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

So that the manner in which the above recited features of the present disclosure can be understood in detail, a more particular description of the disclosure, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference to embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only exemplary embodiments and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, may admit to other equally effective embodiments.

FIG. 1A illustrates a top view of an example fitted sheet anchor, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 1B is a magnified view of a corner of the example fitted sheet anchor of FIG. 1A, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 1C is a perspective view showing the example fitted sheet anchor of FIG. 1A as provided on a mattress, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 2 illustrates a view of the example fitted sheet anchor of FIGS. 1A through 1C, from the underside of an example mattress, showing an example elastic band, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the example fitted sheet anchor of FIGS. 1A through 1C and FIG. 2, showing an example zipper attachment mechanism provided on the anchor portion, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 4 illustrates a moisture-proof underlayer integrated or sewn to an example removable top sheet, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 5 illustrates the upper bedding surface as well as lower moisture-proof surface of the example top sheet of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 illustrates an example integrated anchor and mattress protector, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 7 illustrates a magnified view of the integrated anchor and mattress protector of FIG. 6, showing an example attachment process, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIGS. 8A, 8B and 8C illustrate example attachment mechanisms for an example fitted sheet anchor portion to an example mattress, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 9 illustrates an expanded view of a complete example fitted anchor and sheet system using the anchoring approach of FIG. 8C, and how it is fit over an example mattress, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a magnified side view of the example fitted anchor and sheet system and receiving mattress shown in FIG. 9.

FIG. 11A illustrates a perspective view of an example six sided fitted anchor and sheet system, in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 11B illustrates a top view of the example six sided fitted anchor and sheet system of FIG. 11A, in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 11C illustrates a bottom view of the example six sided fitted anchor and sheet system of FIG. 11A, in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 12 illustrates a magnified view of the bottom of an example mattress provided with the fitted sheet and anchor system of FIGS. 11A through 11C.

FIG. 13 illustrates a magnified view of the top of an example mattress provided with the fitted sheet and anchor system of FIGS. 11A through 11C.

FIG. 14 illustrates an example fitted anchor with integrated mattress cover, with the top sheet removed, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 15 illustrates the example fitted anchor with integrated mattress cover of FIG. 14, with a top sheet partially affixed to the anchor, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 16 illustrates another example of the fitted anchor with integrated mattress cover, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a process flow chart for a method of providing a fitted anchor for a mattress, in accordance with one embodiment.

To facilitate understanding, identical reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate identical elements that are common to the figures. It is contemplated that elements and features of one embodiment may be beneficially incorporated in other embodiments without further recitation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In one embodiment, a replaceable sheet system includes an upper portion (top sheet) to cover a sleeping surface of a mattress, and a lower portion, to anchor to the mattress. In one embodiment the lower portion is a fitted anchor comprising a stretchable fabric that firmly holds onto the sides of the mattress. In one embodiment, the upper portion is releasably attached to the lower portion, and the lower portion anchors to the mattress in a compression fit. In one embodiment, the upper portion and the lower portion may be releasably attached by a zipper, which may be covered by fabric. In one embodiment, each of the upper and lower portions include a short flap, which together cover the zipper when the upper and lower portions are zipped together.

In one embodiment, a mattress pad or mattress protector is integrated with the lower, or anchor portion. In one embodiment, the mattress pad or mattress protector is also releasably attached to the lower portion, facilitating easy removal and replacement of one or both the integrated mattress pad and the top sheet.

In another embodiment, a replaceable sheet system includes a sleeping surface, configured to cover a top surface of a mattress, and a mattress anchor, configured to anchor to the mattress. The mattress anchor includes a mattress protector portion, and an anchor portion, the anchor portion including four side panels to respectively cover each of four sides of the mattress, and a bottom portion to cover, at least in part, a bottom surface of the mattress. The mattress protector portion is releasably attached to the anchor portion, and the sleeping surface is releasably attached to the anchor portion.

In one example, the bottom portion of the mattress anchor covers the entire bottom surface of the mattress. In one example, the bottom portion of the mattress anchor includes an undertuck extension of each of the four side panels, each configured to tuck underneath the bottom surface of the mattress, together defining a periphery, and a central fabric releasably attached to the periphery.

In the description to follow, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof wherein like numerals designate like parts throughout, and in which is shown by way of illustration embodiments that may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the following detailed description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of embodiments is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Operations of various methods may be described as multiple discrete actions or operations in turn, in a manner that is most helpful in understanding the claimed subject matter. However, the order of description should not be construed as to imply that these operations are necessarily order dependent. In particular, these operations may not be performed in the order of presentation. Operations described may be performed in a different order than the described embodiments. Various additional operations may be performed and/or described operations may be omitted, split or combined in additional embodiments.

For the purposes of the present disclosure, the phrase “A and/or B” means (A), (B), or (A and B). For the purposes of the present disclosure, the phrase “A, B, and/or C” means (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B and C).

The description may use the phrases “in an embodiment,” or “in embodiments,” which may each refer to one or more of the same or different embodiments. Furthermore, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like, as used with respect to embodiments of the present disclosure, are synonymous.

As used herein, including in the claims, a fitted sheet in accordance with various embodiments has an “upper” or “top” portion, which lays on the top, substantially planar horizontal surface of a mattress, where people sleep or recline, and also has a “side” portion, which attaches to the substantially vertical sides of a mattress, and which further has additional fabric that is said to “tuck” or protrude underneath the bottom surface of the mattress. Collectively, the four side panels may be referred to as a side panel or “ring” around the mattress.

FIG. 1A illustrates a top view of an example fitted sheet anchor provided on mattress, in accordance with one embodiment. Referring now to FIG. 1A, there is shown the top surface 101 of a mattress with four corner supports 105 of the fitted anchor protruding above each of the four corners of the top surface of the mattress. In some embodiments, each of the four corner supports 105 is provided with a button snap 106, to which a top sheet, or an immediately upper layer for a multiple layer top sheet structure, may attach with a corresponding set of snaps.

FIG. 1B shows a magnified view of the right bottom corner of the example fitted sheet anchor of FIG. 1A. With reference thereto, there is one side of a zipper 110 provided around the entire periphery of the fitted anchor, configured to mate with a corresponding other side of the zipper (not shown) attached to the top sheet. In some embodiments, each of the fitted anchor and the top sheet may include a flap, for example a fabric flap, to together cover the zipper when the fitted anchor and the top sheet are zipped together. FIG. 1B also shows the button snap 106 described above. Continuing with reference to FIG. 1C, a perspective view is presented that shows the sides of the fitted anchor that hold onto the mattress.

Finally, FIG. 1D shows a bottom of the mattress 125, and a portion of each of the four sides of the fitted anchor that extends underneath the mattress. These extending portions are referred to as the “undertuck portions” 126, inasmuch as they are each configured to fold, or tuck, underneath the mattress. The edge of each of the undertuck portions 126 is sewn, or otherwise attached, to elastic band 127 that creates a tension so as to pull the edge of each undertuck portion towards the center of the mattress bottom 125, thereby affixing the entire anchor portion in place. Thus, in one or more embodiments, the bottom of the fitted anchor terminates, on each side, in an elastic band that is configured to be in a stretched state, so that it pulls the four sides of the fitted anchor in a direction perpendicular to each side of the fitted anchor and towards the center of mattress bottom 125, thereby preventing bunching up of the fitted anchor on the top of the mattress, or the sides of the fitted anchor slacking.

FIG. 3 illustrates an alternate view of FIG. 1C, from a different perspective. FIG. 3 also shows the peripheral zipper 110, as shown in FIG. 1B, now provided around the entire upper periphery of the fitted anchor. As noted above, in one or more embodiments, a top sheet, or more generally, a sleeping surface, may be releasably attached to the fitted anchor via a corresponding zipper to peripheral zipper 110. In other embodiments, only a button snap may be used at each corner, and in still other embodiments, both a peripheral attachment such as a zipper, as well as a set of four attachments at the four respective corners, may be used.

It is noted in connection with the example fitted anchor system of FIGS. 1-3 that, in some embodiments, the fitted anchor may be of a different fabric than the top sheet or sleeping surface. In other embodiments, they may be of the same fabric.

Thus, in some examples, where the fitted anchor is made of a different fabric than that of the top sheet, the fitted anchor may be made of a stretchable fabric. In other embodiments, both the top sheet and the fitted anchor may be made of a stretchable fabric. In embodiments, such a stretchable fabric may have a surface area ratio of sheet to mattress set to remain less than or equal to 1. In embodiments, this may be achieved by using a fabric that stretches and thereby “hugs” the mattress which it covers. Because a stretchable fabric is flexible, a “shrink fit” or “compression fit” occurs, which preserves the requisite 1:1 surface area ratio when stretched, and thereby achieves perfect coverage.

Moreover, the tension due to the fabric stretching to fit an actual mattress may slightly compress the mattress. In embodiments, the interaction of the compressive force from the sheet, and a reactive expansive force from the mattress operate to hold the bed sheet in place despite movement on the top of the bed.

In some embodiments, in addition to a fabric that stretches, additional functionality may be provided, including: an array of sizes required to fit the vast array of mattresses used, composition of the stretchable fabric, and the manner in which the fabric is used.

In some embodiments, a fitted sheet may comprise a fabric blended with between 5-25% of a stretchable fiber component. The stretchable fiber content may be a synthetic fiber such as, for example, Spandex, Lycra or elastane, or equivalent polyether-polyurea copolymer. Such a fabric composition eliminates wrinkles on the upper surface of the fitted sheet, and may minimize them on the sides. However, simply using a stretchable fabric may cause the efficacy of the sheet to be contingent upon other factors, such as, for example, a strength of the elastic used in the fitted sheet.

In some embodiments, two separate fabrics may be used, and, for example, attached, along the perimeter of the upper surface of the mattress, so that the respective fabrics used for the sleeping surface of the sheet, and the portion of the fitted sheet covering the sides of the mattress, are different. This approach, inter alia, separates the forces on the upper surface of the sheet from those acting on the side surfaces. The upper portion and the side panel, in embodiments, may be attached by a zipper, as noted above.

It is here noted that by using, in some embodiments, a two way stretch fabric on the side portion of the sheet, a lateral (with respect to the side panel) compression may be created that would diffuse longitudinal forces resulting from movement on the top of the bed. In other words, anchoring forces of the sheet due to compressive tension in the sides of the sheet negate and overcome any forces pulling the sheet out from its tucked in position under the mattress.

In embodiments, a side fabric composition may comprise any bedding fabric, such as, for example, polyester, cotton, tencel and linen, and the weave pattern may be, for example, percale, sateen, basket weave or twill, woven with between 1-20% of a stretchable fiber, such as, for example, Lycra®. In general, the greater percentage of the stretchable fiber, the more accurate a fit on the mattress may be achieved. In some embodiments, a top or upper portion of the fitted sheet need not be blended with stretchable fibers at all. In some embodiments, it may be pre-shrunk by either washing or mercerizing during processing of the fabric. It is noted that while every fabric shrinks to a different degree, washing the sheets once ensures that most of the shrinkage is avoided later; it being understood that fabrics demonstrate maximum shrinkage after a first wash. This would make the surface portion crease considerably less but does not guarantee complete elimination of wrinkles. Alternatively, if a desired sheet is to be 100% crease/wrinkle free, as well as have an exact fit, any knitted fabric, which may in some embodiments be knitted with Lycra®, or any woven fabric blended with Lycra® (any percentage greater than 1% (may be used.

It is, of course, understood, that both the fitted anchor and top sheet may, in some embodiments, be made of standard cotton, without either being made of a stretchable fabric. In such embodiments, it is useful, but not required, to use corner supports as shown in FIG. 1.

In some embodiments, a taper is introduced on the side panels of the sheet. In other words, the width of each side panel decreases from top to bottom. In embodiments, this tapering anchors the fitted anchor portion onto the sides of the mattress, and also manages aesthetics by keeping the tucked portion of the sheet underneath the mattress in position, as shown in FIGS. 1 (left image) and 2.

Thus, a “taper” is understood to mean a decrease in overall perimeter size around the four side panels from the upper periphery, where the side panels attach to the top sheet to the bottom of the side panels, which tuck underneath the mattress, as is shown in FIG. 2, described above. This design minimizes triangular overlap that may occur in conventional fitted sheets at the four corners on the underside of the mattress when the four side panels are tucked in. In one or more embodiments, such example tapering insures that the lateral compression on the sides of the fitted anchor is greater than any stretch on the upper surface of the top sheet, or, for example, other sleeping surface, thus facilitating the anchoring of the top sheet on the side panels of the mattress. This anchoring both maintains a zipper (e.g., peripheral zipper 110 and a corresponding zipper on the sleeping surface) attaching the upper potion to the side panel at the right height (top of the side panels), and also avoids the side portions of the sheet from being pulled upwards from under the bed.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example top sheet, in accordance with some embodiments (zippers not shown). In the depicted embodiment, the top sheet has two layers, a moisture-proof underlayer attached to a removable top sheet. In some embodiments, the moisture proof underlayer may comprise any textile that has an added thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) laminate bonded to it. In other embodiments, rubberized flannel may be used. With reference to FIG. 4 there is shown at the bottom of the figure, in a perspective view, an example mattress 124 with a fitted anchor attached to it in accordance with one embodiment. Also shown is mattress top surface 101, as described above. Provided directly above mattress top surface 101 there is additionally shown top sheet 125, in accordance with one embodiment. Top sheet 125 is relasably attachable to the fitted anchor provided on mattress 124. For example, top sheet 125 may be a zip-on top sheet (zippers not shown) Thus, in embodiments, an example top sheet may have multiple layers, such as, for example, two layers, the uppermost being comfortable to sleep on, the lowermost isolating the mattress underneath from any moisture or other impurities. FIG. 5 illustrates detail of the top sheet 125 and its two layers, bedding fabric top surface 125A, and moisture-proof fabric bottom surface 125B.

In some embodiments, a fitted anchor with a top sheet having an integrated moisture proof underlayer has the same form factor as a regular or conventional fitted sheet. Thus, in such embodiments, the physical characteristics and shape of the combined fitted anchor and top sheet set, when joined (e.g., zippered), appear and feel to a consumer as being similar—a textile that covers five sides of a mattress and is held in position by some mechanism, e.g., elastic bands, stretchable fabric, etc. This is because, in such embodiments, both have the same physical form, namely a textile that covers a mattress on five sides and holds it final position, such as, for example, by means of an elasticized band. This is so, even given that they differ in their essence, as a fitted sheet is an interface between a user and the mattress and the mattress protector or moisture proof underlayer is an added covering to prevent degradation of the mattress with use.

As noted, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, a moisture-proof fabric is integrated with a top sheet. Carrying that concept still further, in alternate embodiments, a mattress protector or equivalent may be integrated into the fitted anchor. Such alternate embodiments are next described, with reference to FIGS. 6 through 10.

It is noted that the conventional fitted sheet has not been adapted over time to solve other problems that, as an interface or separation between a mattress and a sleeping person lying on it, need to be addressed. Ideally, such an interface should protect the mattress from dust, mites, sweat, bodily fluids, liquid spillage, etc. This inadequacy has resulted in the creation of an entirely new bedding product category known as “mattress protectors.” Mattress protectors generally have the same shape and form as a conventional fitted sheet, but differ in construction and functionality. They tend to be thicker and bulkier than a standard fitted sheet, as well. Thus, people who use mattress covers have effectively the shape and bulk of what amounts to two or more fitted sheets on each mattress. Conventionally, a mattress protector uses two different fabrics for the top and the side surfaces of the mattress, respectively. The top fabric is lined with a polymer to impart protective/preservative properties, and the sides often, but not always, use a stretchable fabric, e.g., Spandex to keep the protective surface of the mattress protector aligned with the top surface of the mattress. Unlike a fitted sheet which needs to be changed frequently for washing, mattress protectors are not expected to be frequently removed from the mattress, as this defeats the purpose of protecting the mattress. Due to these differences, in spite of having the same shape, the two products are inherently different. A user must obtain both of them—fitted sheet and mattress protector—separately, and use them in different capacities.

In one or more embodiments, this situation is significantly improved. In embodiments next described, by combining both devices, and by redesigning functionality around form factor, synergistic benefits are obtained. For example, the taut sides that are a functional design feature of mattress protectors used to keep the protective top of a mattress protector aligned with the mattress sleeping surface, become an aesthetic and convenient feature as the user does not have to readjust their sheets. In embodiments, by integrating a mattress protector into a fitted sheet system, both functionalities are improved. Thus, a fitted sheet+mattress protector combination preserves the functionality of both elements without compromising on the physical character of either element as used separately.

FIG. 6 illustrates an example integrated fitted anchor 105 and mattress protector 610, in accordance with various embodiments. With reference thereto, there is shown a moisture-proof fabric 610 that may be, for example, as shown at 611 sewn at its edges to the tops of the respective sides of the fitted anchor 605. There is further shown, as described above for example, with reference to FIG. 2, a bottom elastic band 625 of the fitted anchor 605 configured to pull the sides of the fitted anchor 605 towards the center of the bottom surface (not shown) of the mattress 640. Also shown in FIG. 6 is the zippered periphery 620 provided around the tops of the four sides of the fitted anchor 605 to which a top sheet (not shown) may be releasably attached, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 7 illustrates how the example integrated fitted anchor 605 and mattress protector 610 of FIG. 6, is slid over the top of an example mattress, where the elastic band is ultimately in a horizontal plane just below the bottom surface of mattress 640, in accordance with one embodiment.

As noted above, in some embodiments, a fitted anchor portion may be made out of a stretchable fabric, for example Spandex® or Lycra®, which may be configured to be expanded beyond its home state, such that it continually applies pressure to the sides of the mattress over which it is mounted, thereby holding it in place. However, in other embodiments such a stretchable fabric may not be used. In such embodiments, other means of anchoring the fitted anchor to the mattress may be implemented. Some example alternate anchoring techniques are illustrated in FIGS. 8A, 8B and 8C, next described.

Before describing FIGS. 8A through 8C in detail, it is first noted that, in embodiments, various alternatives may be used for the fitted anchor portion. For example, instead of having its four substantially vertical sides ending at the periphery of the upper surface of the mattress, in some embodiments the fitted anchor may include a component in the horizontal plane just above the mattress surface, as a ring or band around the periphery. This is illustrated in FIG. 8A, where the four sides of the fitted anchor (not shown).

In other embodiments, for example, where moisture protection is not needed, such as, for example, where the actual mattress is treated with water-proofing compounds or chemicals, or where it comes with its own integrated moisture protection layer, or, for example, where it does not, but moisture protection is simply not desired, the mattress protector aspect need not be provided. In such embodiments, a lower cost, non-sleep, or comfort oriented functional fabric may be used in place of a standard mattress protector fabric. Non-wovens, mesh like fabrics, or the like may be used, inasmuch as these would be covered by the top sheet, so surface properties of this undersheet will not matter. In such embodiments, the additional fabric 610, with reference to FIG. 6, may simply be used to help hold the fitted anchor in place, and thus need not be of a moisture-proof fabric at all.

Still alternatively, as shown in FIG. 1A, triangular corner supports 105, made of fabric, may be added on the top surface of the mattress for stability. In such embodiments, having triangular fabric pieces sewn into the corners of the fitted anchor forms pockets that hold the sides of the fitted anchor in place when the fitted anchor is unzipped from a top sheet, or other sleeping surface. In such embodiments, the size of the triangular surface area of the corner supports 105 may be varied, given fabric type, mattress size, and expected wear and tear, to provide additional stability to the fitted anchor, as needed.

Finally, as shown in FIG. 8B, described below, a lattice work of bands may be provided instead of a full piece of fabric on top of the mattress. In such example embodiments, bands connecting opposite and/or adjacent sides also support the four vertical sides of the fitted anchor when unzipped from a sleeping surface.

Thus, FIGS. 8A. 8B and 8C illustrate example attachment mechanisms for an example fitted sheet anchor provided with some form of additional fabric to sit on the top surface of a mattress, underneath the attached top sheet, in accordance with various embodiments. With reference to FIG. 8A, a first method for anchoring the fitted anchor to the mattress is illustrated. This first approach involves a recessed border provided on the top of the mattress. The recessed border extends upwards from the substantially vertical sides of the fitted anchor, and is thus an extension of the four-cornered approach shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B to a complete peripheral border 810, extended up from the four sides of the fitted anchor, around the entire top surface. FIG. 8B shows another example embodiment, including a set of bands 840, arranged in a diamond shape, is attached to each of the sides of the fitted anchor, at the top of each side, at approximately its midpoint (sides not shown).

Finally, with reference to FIG. 8C, a complete extra fabric surface 850, similar to that shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, but here not necessarily moisture-proof, although it may be, which is integrated with the fitted anchor in a layer directly above either the recessed border or the diamond shaped set of bands shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, respectively. As noted above, the extra fabric surface may, in some embodiments, function as an integrated mattress protector, and thus act as a barrier to moisture, bodily fluids, dust and dirt.

FIG. 9 illustrates an expanded view of a complete fitted sheet system, in accordance with one or more embodiments. With reference thereto, starting at the bottom of the figure, there is shown a mattress 940. Fitted over the mattress 940 is a base 930, or fitted anchor, with a zipper provided around its entire upper periphery. As shown in dotted lines in FIG. 9, base 930 also has, on its bottom horizontal surface, a peripheral band that extends inward from the substantially vertical sides of base 930, and tucks under the mattress as shown at 937 which terminates in an inner elastic band (such as, for example, elastic band 125 of FIG. 2, described above), and which extends underneath the bottom of the mattress as shown in FIG. 2. It is also noted that the fitted anchor in the example shown in FIG. 9 has the four triangular corner supports shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B described above.

Continuing with reference to FIG. 9, the next higher layer is the moisture-proof/waterproof layer 920 which, in this example, snaps to the fitted anchor (base) 930 at each of the four corner supports, as shown, via, for example, button snaps 935. (In alternate examples, it may be sewn directly to the fitted anchor, but is then not removable). It is this moisture-proof/waterproof layer that is sandwiched in between the fitted anchor 930 and the top sheet 910, the latter to be releasably attached to the periphery of the top of fitted anchor, as shown, by, for example, a zipper. Thus, in embodiments, the moisture-proof/waterproof layer, whether snapped to the four corner supports, or sewn to the fitted anchor's periphery, is designed to fit inside the peripheral dimension of the top of the fitted anchor 930 in a manner that it does not interfere with the zipper or the opening and closing of the zipper to release or attach the top sheet. Thus, for example, layer 920 may be sewn just under the zippered edge of base 930, or, for example, may attach via button snaps 935, and have a surface area that fits just inside the rounded rectangle made by the periphery of base 930.

It is noted in connection with FIG. 9 that the base or fitted anchor 930 may be anchored to the mattress using any of the alternative anchoring methods described above, in paragraphs [0049] through [0059], with reference to FIGS. 1-3. Some of these methods may include, for example, stretchable fabric for the side panels of the base 930, woven with various percentages of stretchable fibers, all as described above.

FIG. 10 is an expanded side view of the fitted anchor and sheet system shown in FIG. 9, rotated 90 degrees clockwise, for ease of viewing. It is identical, except for its size and orientation, to the elements of FIG. 9, and thus shows, from left to right, mattress 940, over which is provided base/fitted anchor 930, to which is either sewn or releasably attached moisture-proof layer 920, and to which is also releasably attached sleeping surface 910

In still another embodiment, in an alternate extension of the fitted anchor embodiment of FIGS. 9 and 10, a six-sided mattress cover configured to releasably attach to a top sheet is provided. Its form factor is similar to that of a conventional mattress cover, such as those that come with a purchased mattress. Embodiments of this product may be, for example, marketed to mattress manufacturing companies and then bundled with a mattress. It would be essentially the same as various embodiments described above, but instead of having an open bottom like a fitted sheet, it could have a closure underneath so that the mattress is completely covered on all sides. For example, a closed-end zipper may be placed on the portion of the six-sided mattress cover that lies under the mattress so that the entire cover is easily washable. In essence this is a modified mattress cover with a zipper provided along the entire periphery of its upper surface, to accept a top sheet, according to various embodiments of this disclosure.

FIGS. 11A through 11C illustrates several views of another embodiment, an example six-sided fitted anchor and sheet system, in accordance with one or more embodiments. As used herein, this alternate embodiment may be referred to as the “six-sided encasement embodiment.” With reference to FIG. 11A a perspective side view of the six-sided mattress encasement embodiment is shown. There is seen a bottom portion whose interior is entirely attached to the bottom of the fitted anchor by a bottom zipper 1117. This element is described in detail below with reference to FIG. 11C. Also shown in FIG. 11A are the four vertical substantially planar sides 1119 of the fitted anchor, which sit respectively flush against corresponding vertical sides of the example mattress, and a mattress protective layer 1110 provided on the top of the mattress. In some embodiments, the mattress protective layer is sewn in to the fitted anchor, just underneath upper zipper 1115, in similar fashion to the example shown in FIG. 6. Finally, there is an upper zipper 1115, provided around the periphery of the top of the fitted anchor, for connecting to a top sheet (top sheet not shown), in the same manner as in the example of FIG. 6, described above. In other embodiments, the mattress protective layer 1110 may be releasably attached to the fitted anchor, such as, for example, using snaps, buttons, Velcro™ or the like. For example, there may be patches on each of the four corners of the fitted anchor, as shown, for example, in FIG. 1B, to which the mattress protective layer 1110 may be attached. Or, for example, the mattress protective layer 1110 may be releasably attached to the peirphery of the fitted anchor, e.g., the top of each of the four substantially vertical planar sides 1119.

Thus, in one or more embodiments, the mattress protective layer 1110, or, more broadly speaking, a panel of fabric provided within the periphery, for example the zippered periphery 1115, may be used to stabilize the fitted anchor when a sleeping surface is detached, and may also have protective properties. In one or more embodiments, the panel of fabric 1110 is not attached to a sleeping surface, e.g., a sheet. In one or more embodiments, the sleeping surface is attached only to the periphery of the fitted anchor, just as in the earlier described embodiments where no mattress protector, or panel of fabric 1110 is used.

FIG. 11B illustrates an example mattress protective layer 1110, as shown in FIG. 11A. With reference to FIG. 11B, there is also indicated the zipper 1115 that may be provided on the periphery of the fitted anchor, above where the mattress protective layer 1110 is itself attached to the base. As noted, in some embodiments the mattress protective layer 1110 is releasably attached to the fitted anchor periphery, and in that case there may be another zipper, below zipper 1115, or the mattress protective layer 1110 may be attached to corner supports that extend, at each corner, up from the vertical sides of the base or fitted anchor. As also noted above, in other embodiments, mattress protective layer 1110 may be substantially permanently sewn to the peirphery, and thus, in such other embodiments, not be releasable from it, but rather affixed to the fitted anchor. FIG. 11C depicts a bottom view of the example mattress fitted with the example six-sided mattress encasement, in accordance with one or more embodiments. As seen in this bottom view, unlike prior embodiments, there is a bottom surface of the fitted anchor that covers the entire bottom surface of the mattress. In one or more embodiments, the bottom surface comprises two elements. A first element is an outer peripheral element 1123, which includes an undertuck that extends from each of the four vertical sides 1119 of the fitted anchor, and tucks underneath the mattress, as shown for another embodiment in FIG. 2. In the embodiment of FIG. 11C, there need not be an elastic band 125, given the second element of the bottom surface. Thus, a second element of the bottom surface is a central bottom fabric 1125 that releasably attaches to the undertucks 1123, for example by a bottom zipper 1117. Thus, in one or more embodiments, central bottom fabric 1125 attaches to the fitted anchor at its periphery by bottom zipper 1117. In one or more embodiments, it is generally not expected to remove the bottom surface unless the mattress is to be removed, or, for some reason, the central bottom fabric 1125 is to be cleaned or replaced.

FIG. 12 illustrates a magnified view of the bottom of an example mattress provided with the six-sided fitted sheet and anchor system as shown in FIG. 11C, including the bottom zipper 1117. Similarly, FIG. 13 illustrates a magnified view of the top of an example mattress provided with the six-sided fitted sheet and anchor system of FIGS. 11A through 11C. FIG. 13 depicts an example mattress protective layer 1110 that is one of attached or releasably attached to the fitted anchor (attachment mechanism not shown, may be a zipper, or snaps, etc., as described above), and thus also depicts peripheral zipper 1115 for attachment to a sheet or sleeping surface (not shown). Both of the examples of FIGS. 12 and 13, having been described above with reference to FIGS. 11A through 11C, are not described again. In one or more embodiments, whether the mattress protective layer 1110 is attached or is releasably attached to the fitted anchor, the attachment point is provided below the zipper 1115, so that the connection between mattress protective layer 1110 and the upper periphery of the sides of the fitted anchor does not interfere in any way with the attachment or detachment of a top sheet, or other sleeping surface, for example via zipper 1115, to the fitted anchor.

It is noted in connection with the six-sided base or fitted anchor of FIGS. 11-13, which now includes both sides 1119 as well as undertucks 1123 and central bottom fabric 1125, that an example base or fitted anchor may be anchored to the mattress using any of the alternative anchoring methods described above, in paragraphs [0049] through [0059], with reference to FIGS. 1-3. Some of these methods may include, for example, stretchable fabric for the side panels of the base 1119, woven with various percentages of stretchable fibers, all as described above. It is further noted, however, that in many embodiments of the six-sided base or fitted anchor of FIGS. 11-13, there is no need to use any special fabrics at all, inasmuch as the base or fitted anchor surrounds a mattress on all six sides, and thus may be fixed in place to the mattress, and thus provides a stable structure to attach the sleeping surface to.

FIGS. 14 through 16, next described, are images of an actual prototype, in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 14 illustrates an example fitted anchor with integrated mattress cover, with a soiled top sheet removed, and a fresh top sheet ready to be attached, in accordance with one embodiment. As shown in FIG. 14, there is seen a base mattress protector visible on the mattress, with two top sheet portions—a soiled zip on sheet and a fresh zip on sheet. This illustrates the quick-change feature in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 15 illustrates the example fitted anchor with integrated mattress cover of FIG. 14, with a top sheet partially affixed to the anchor, in accordance with one embodiment. spilt liquid that shows that the protector is waterproof

FIG. 16 illustrates another example of the fitted anchor with integrated mattress cover, in accordance with one embodiment. With reference to FIG. 16, a user is shown unzipping the top sheet, and also showing the mattress protector underneath. In the depicted example of FIG. 16, the mattress protector is sewn in to the fitted anchor, and thus permanently attached to it. In alternate embodiments (not shown), the mattress protector may also be releasably attached to the fitted anchor, for cleaning or replacement, as may be desired.

FIG. 17 is a process flow chart for a method 1700 of providing a fitted anchor for a mattress, in accordance with one embodiment. Method 1700 includes blocks 1710 through 1740, and optionally includes blocks 1750 and 1760. In alternate examples method 1700 may include greater, or fewer, blocks. Method 1700 begins at block 1710 where a mattress anchor is provided, the mattress anchor configured to anchor to a mattress, the mattress anchor including four substantially vertical side panels to respectively cover each of four sides of the mattress. For example, the mattress anchor may be that as is shown in FIGS. 11A through 11C, or, for example, it may be base/fitted anchor 930 of FIG. 10.

From block 1710, method 1700 proceeds to block 1720, where a bottom portion of the mattress anchor is provided, the bottom portion configured to cover, at least in part, a bottom surface of the mattress, the bottom portion including a releasable closure to allow the mattress anchor to be fit over the mattress. For example, the bottom portion may be that as is shown in FIG. 11C and FIG. 12, with releasable closure 1117.

From block 1720, method 1700 proceeds to block 1730, where a releasable attachment mechanism is provided on a top boundary of the four side panels, the releasable attachment mechanism configured to releasably attach to a sleeping surface to cover the mattress. For example, releasable attachment mechanism may be peripheral zipper 1115 of FIG. 11B or 13, or, for example, the zippered edge on base with zippered edge 930 of FIG. 9.

From block 1730, method 1700 proceeds to block 1740, where a mattress protector layer is provided on a top of the mattress anchor, the mattress protector layer one of attached or releasably attached to the mattress anchor at a level below that of the releasable attachment mechanism, so as not to interfere with the releasable attachment mechanism or its use. For example, the mattress protector layer may be mattress protective layer 1110 of FIG. 11B, or, for example, moisture-proof layer 920 of FIG. 10. In one example, it may be attached to the base or fitted anchor via button snaps 935, as shown in FIG. 9. In another example it may be attached to the base or fitted anchor via a zipper, for example, or via Velcro™.

From block 1740, method 1700 may proceed to an optional block 1750, where a sleeping surface is provided, the sleeping surface configured to releasably attach to the releasable attachment mechanism. For example, the sleeping surface may be sleeping surface 910 of FIG. 10.

From block 1750, method 1700 may proceeds to an additional optional block 1760, where the mattress anchor is attached to a mattress, and the sleeping surface is releasably attached to the mattress anchor. For example, the mattress may be mattress 940 of FIG. 9, and the mattress anchor assembly, including, all with reference to FIG. 9, top sheet/sleeping surface 910, moisture-proof/waterproof layer 920, and base 930, are all slid over the top of mattress 940 so that the bottom of base 937 tucks under mattress 940. Or, for example, the mattress anchor may be that shown in FIG. 11A, and the mattress is inserted into the releasable closure 1117 of FIGS. 11C and 12, zipper 1117 zipped up so that central bottom fabric 1125 fully covers the bottom of the mattress. Moreover, in this example, the sleeping surface is then attached to, for example, zipper 1115 of FIGS. 11A and 13.

Method 1700 terminates either at block 1740, or at optional block 1760.

The foregoing description of one or more implementations provides illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of embodiments to the precise form disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of various embodiments.

Claims

1-46. (canceled)

47. A replaceable sheet system, comprising:

an upper portion configured to be slept on; and

a fitted anchor portion, including an integrated moisture protector, to anchor to a portion of a mattress,

wherein the upper portion is releasably attached to the lower portion.

48. The system of claim 47, wherein the fitted anchor portion includes four side panels to respectively cover four corresponding sides of the mattress, and wherein the integrated moisture protector is attached to a top portion of the fitted anchor portion, and is configured to lay on an upper surface of the mattress.

49. The system of claim 47, wherein the integrated moisture protector is sewn to the top portion of the fitted anchor portion.

50. The system of claim 47, wherein the fitted anchor portion further includes one or more upper panels to cover at least a portion of an upper surface of the mattress, and wherein the integrated moisture protector is one of attached or releasably attached to the one or more upper panels of the fitted anchor portion.

51. The system of claim 50, wherein the one or more upper panels of the fitted anchor portion include four corner supports configured to lay on each of four corners of the upper surface of the mattress, and wherein the integrated moisture protector is releasably snapped to the four corner supports.

52. The system of claim 50, wherein the one or more upper panels of the fitted anchor portion includes one of: attach to a respective side panel of the fitted anchor portion.

a peripheral band configured to cover an outer band of the upper surface of the mattress; or

four bands forming a four cornered diamond shape, each corner configured to: lay at substantially a midpoint of a side of the upper surface of the mattress, and

53. A fitted anchor for a replaceable sleeping surface, comprising:

a mattress anchor, configured to anchor to a mattress, including: a mattress protector layer; an anchor portion, the anchor portion including four side panels to respectively cover each of four sides of the mattress; an attachment or a releasable attachment mechanism provided on a top boundary of the four side panels, configured to releasably attach to a sleeping surface to cover the mattress; and a bottom portion to cover, at least in part, a bottom surface of the mattress.

54. The fitted anchor of claim 53, wherein the bottom portion of the mattress anchor either:

covers the entire bottom surface of the mattress; or

includes an undertuck extension of each of the four side panels, each configured to tuck underneath the bottom surface of the mattress, the undertuck extensions together defining a periphery, and a fabric band being releasably attached to the periphery.

55. The fitted anchor of claim 53, wherein the mattress protection layer is one of attached or releasably attached to the mattress anchor below the releasable attachment mechanism.

56. The fitted anchor of claim 53, further comprising a sleeping surface, configured to cover a top surface of the mattress and to releasably attach to the releasable attachment mechanism.

57. The fitted anchor of claim 56, wherein the releasable attachment mechanism is a zipper, and wherein the sleeping surface is releasably attached to the mattress anchor by the zipper.

58. The fitted anchor of claim 53:

wherein the bottom portion of the mattress anchor includes an undertuck extension of each of the four side panels, each configured to tuck underneath the bottom surface of the mattress the undertuck extensions together defining a periphery, and a fabric band being releasably attached to the periphery, and

further comprising a sleeping surface, configured to cover a top surface of the mattress and to releasably attach to the releasable attachment mechanism.

59. A method of providing a replaceable sheet system, comprising:

providing a top sheet portion configured to cover an upper surface of a mattress;

providing a fitted anchor portion, configured to anchor to a portion of the mattress, the fitted anchor portion including four side panels to respectively cover each of four sides of the mattress;

releasably attaching the upper fabric portion to the lower fabric portion; and

anchoring the fitted anchor portion to a portion of the mattress.

60. The method of claim 59, wherein the top sheet portion and the fitted anchor portion are releasably attached by at least one of a zipper or a quick release zipper.

61. The method of claim 60, further comprising providing each of the top sheet portion and the fitted anchor portion with a flap, the flaps configured to each cover the zipper or the quick release zipper, as the case may be, when the top sheet and fitted anchor portions are attached.

62. The method of claim 59, further comprising integrating a mattress protector with either the top sheet portion or the fitted anchor portion.

63. The method of claim 62, wherein the mattress protector includes a thermoplastic polyurethane backing.

64. The method of claim 59, further comprising providing an elastic band at a bottom perimeter made by the respective bottom edges of the four side panels of the fitted anchor portion.

65. The method of claim 59, wherein at least one of:

the top sheet portion and the fitted anchor portion are made of the same fabric;

the fitted anchor portion has a width dimension at each side of a top perimeter and at each side of a bottom perimeter, and wherein the width dimension at each side of the top perimeter is less than a respectively corresponding width dimension of each side of the mattress by between 0-5%; or

a width dimension at each side of a bottom perimeter of the fitted anchor portion is respectively less than a corresponding width dimension of each corresponding side of a bottom perimeter of the mattress by between 5-20%.

66. The method of claim 59, wherein at least one of:

at each of four corners of the fitted anchor portion two adjacent side panels are attached; or

each of the four side panels defines a trapezoidal shape, the dimensions of which are such that when the fitted anchor portion is laid flat, prior to attachment of each pair of two adjacent side panels at each corner, an angle of between 45-65 degrees is subtended between them.