BLANKET OR BODY COVERING

Abstract

An improved weighted blanket is provided in which, e.g., a plurality of pockets distributed across said blanket as seen in a plan view of the blanket, the plurality of pockets each having weighted material distributed therein, and wherein the weighted material within a plurality of said plurality of pockets includes a distribution of crystals within a filler material.

Description

BACKGROUND

The present application is a non-provisional of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/969,069, filed on Feb. 1, 2020 the entire disclosure of which application is incorporated herein by reference.

The present invention relates to blankets and other body coverings, and, more particularly, to blankets and other body coverings that are weighted for therapeutic or other proposes.

Some illustrative background systems and methods are shown in the following U.S. Patent Publications, which are each incorporated herein by reference in their entireties:

1. U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011/70047698, entitled Weighted Blanket, published Mar. 3, 2011;

2. U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015/0105706, entitled Method for Calming a Person, published Apr. 16, 2015;

3. U.S. Patent Publication No. 2018/0035832, entitled Blanket. published Feb. 8, 2018:

4. U.S. Patent. Publication No. 2018/0317674, entitled Variable Weighted Blanket System, published Nov.8, 2018;

5. U.S. Patent Publication No. 2019/70274454, entitled Methods and Systems for Securing Weighted Blankets to Their Covers, published Sep. 12. 2019; and

6. U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020/0008593, entitled Customizable-Weighted Blankets, published Jan. 9, 2020.

The preferred embodiments problems and/or provide substantial improvements beyond systems and methods seen in the above references and/or elsewhere in the art.

SUMMARY OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

As indicated above, the preferred embodiments overcome problems and/or provide substantial improvements beyond systems and methods seen in the above references and/or elsewhere in the art.

According to some illustrative embodiments, a weighted blanket, comprising:

a) a plurality of pockets distributed across said blanket as seen in a plan view of the blanket;

b) the plurality of pockets each having weighted material distributed therein;

c) wherein the weighted material within a plurality of the plurality of pockets includes a distribution of crystals within a filler material.

In some examples, the weighted blanket weighs more than 10 lbs. In other examples, the weighted blanket weighs more than 15 lbs.

In some examples, the filler material includes glass beads or pebbles.

In some examples, the crystals include crystals having a maximum diameter of between about 2 to 10 mm. In other examples, the crystals include crystals having a maximum diameter of between about 2 to 8 mm. In other examples, the crystals include crystals having a maximum diameter of between about 4 to 6 mm.

In some examples, the crystals within said plurality of said plurality of pockets is at a distribution of crystals to the filler material between about 65-85% of the weight.

According to some embodiments, a method of making a blanket is provided that includes: placing a distribution of crystals and glass beads or pebbles over a first sheet; placing a second sheet over said distribution of crystals and glass, beads or pebbles; and sewing or quilting the first and second sheets together to form pockets having said crystals and glass beads or pebbles distributed therein.

According to some embodiments, a method of using a weighted blanket is provided that includes: placing the weighted blanket over a user, with the weight of the blanket causing the blanket to contact regions of a user's body, such that the crystals are located in close proximity to the user's body.

The above and/or other aspects, features and/or advantages of various embodiments will be further appreciated in view of the following description in conjunction with the accompanying figures. Various embodiments can include and/or exclude different aspects, features and/or advantages where applicable. In addition, various embodiments can combine one or more aspect or feature of other embodiments where applicable. The descriptions of aspects, features and/or advantages of particular embodiments should not be construed as limiting other embodiments or the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The preferred embodiments of the present invention are shown by a way of example, and not limitation, in the accompanying figures, in which:

FIG. 1 is a plan view of a blanket according to some illustrative embodiments of the invention, having an array of substantially rectangular pockets, with a blown-up view illustrating internal contents of one of the pockets of the blanket;

FIG. 2 is an explanatory side view showing fabrication of a blanket according to some of the preferred embodiments, and FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the portion shown between vertical dashed lines in FIG. 2:

FIGS. 4A to 4F are plan views of some illustrative blanket pocket formation according to some illustrative embodiments, wherein FIG. 4A shows an array of substantially rectangular pockets, FIG. 4B shows an array of substantially diamond-shaped pockets, FIG. 4C shows an array of irregularly shaped pockets, FIG. 4D shows air illustrative array of; substantially diamond shaped pockets in which the contents of the pockets varies between pockets (such as, e.g., wherein the white diamond shaped, pockets can include, e.g., a distribution of crystals as per embodiments of the invention, and the black diamond shape pockets can include a different distribution or even no crystals therein, FIG. 4F shows an arrangement of illustrative brick-shaped pockets, and FIG. 4F shows an arrangement that employs a more limited number of pockets (such as, e.g., six pockets shown in this illustrative example);

FIG. 5 shows a plan view of an illustrative embodiment wherein crystal distribution can be focused more substantially or only within a limited region (e.g., shown in dashed lines) such as to more particularly align with certain body portions of a user in some preferred implementations;

FIG. 6 shows a plan view of a user, with illustrative body portions that are aligned with the limited region shown in FIG. 5 in some illustrative embodiments;

FIG. 7 shows a plan view of another illustrative embodiment wherein crystal distribution can be focused more substantially or only within limited regions (e.g., shown in dashed lines) such as to more particularly align with certain body portions of a us in some preferred implementations;

FIG. 8 shows a plan view of a user, with illustrative body portions that are aligned with the limited regions shown in FIG. 5 in some illustrative embodiments;

FIG. 9 is a schematic side view showing an illustrative blanket according to some preferred embodiments shown in dashed lines), wherein the blanket is a weighted blanket, such that the weight of the blanket causes the blanket to more closely follow contours of a user's body, such as to cause the crystals within the weighted blanket to be drawn closer to certain regions of the user's body due to the increased weight of the blanket;

FIG. 10 is a plan view of an illustrative weighted blanket according to some preferred embodiments, which also includes an outer cover into which the weighted blanket is inserted during use;

FIG. 11. A is a plan view of another illustrative weighted blanket according to an illustrative embodiment in which it is sized to extend over a user's face while in a resting or reclined position, and FIG. 11B is a plan view of another illustrative weighted blanket similar to that shown in FIG. 11A.

In the accompanying figures, elements having like functionality or purposes are depicted with like reference numbers.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

While the present invention may be embodied in many different forms, the illustrative embodiments are described herein with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as providing examples of the principles of the invention and that such examples are not intended to limit the invention to preferred embodiments described herein and/or illustrated herein.

Introduction to the Preferred Embodiments

It should be understood that such illustrative embodiments can be modified or adapted by those in the art based on this disclosure and knowledge in the art. For example, the illustrative embodiments shown can be modified to incorporate mechanisms or features of one or more of the patents and applications incorporated herein by reference herein.

In the accompanying figures detailing illustrative embodiments, such embodiments are illustrated, dimensioned and sized in the drawings to scale in some preferred embodiments. In addition, the accompanying figures showing such illustrative embodiments also depict preferred color arrangements in some preferred embodiments. Although scaling, coloring and the like can be varied by those in the art, such attached figures show some preferred embodiments thereof.

Illustrative Crystals

In some illustrative and non-limiting examples, crystal sizes range between about 1-5 millimeters in diameter. In some illustrative embodiments, the crystals are chipped crystals that go through a polishing process. In some illustrative embodiments, although the crystals are polished, the finished shape is substantially irregular.

In sonic preferred embodiments, the crystals include clear quartz crystals, rose quartz crystals, or amethyst crystals. In some preferred embodiments, the crystals include a combination of two or three of clear quartz crystals, rose quartz crystals, and/or amethyst crystals.

In various embodiments, any of the following illustrative crystals (in any combination of one or more of the following exemplary crystals) can be employed:

1. Clear Quartz;

2. Rose Quartz;

3. Amethyst;

4. Jasper;

5. Obsidian;

6. Citrine;

7. Tiger's Eye;

8Turquoise;

9. Moonstone;

10. Bloodstone;

11. Sapphire;

12. Ruby;

13. Selenite;

14. Aventurine;

15. Agate;

16. Tourmaline;

17. Fluorite;

18. Lapis Lazuli;

19. Hematite;

20. Jade;

21. Kyanite;

22. Blue Topaz;

23. Opal;

24. Amazonite; and/or

25. Garnet.

In other embodiments, crystals employed can include any other crystals having properties similar to or greater than any of the crystals described herein—including, for example, a) similar or greater oscillating frequencies, b) similar or, greater piezoelectric output, c) similar or greater interactivity with a bioelectric field of a person or animal.

In the preferred embodiments, the crystals employed include crystals that are commonly considered as “healing crystals.” Although some individuals may question the veracity of crystals providing healing effects, it is plainly undisputed and scientifically proven that crystals, including such crystals commonly considered as healing crystals, have substantial physical properties and effects. For example, there are wide applications of uses of crystals in relation to electromagnetic and electrical applications. For instance, it is widely known that crystals can be used for, e.g., creating watches (e.g., quartz crystal watches) and that such crystals causes precise vibrations or oscillations when subject to electric current. For example, such oscillations can be over about 30,000 cycles per second in some cases. As just one other illustrative and non-limiting example, scientists have found that electromagnetic radiation can be absorbed using an anisotropic crystal. See, e.g., New Way to absorb Electromagnetic Radiation Demonstrated, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Jan. 14, 2016 (“Scientists show that it is possible to fully absorb electromagnetic radiation using an anisotropic crystal.”) Additionally, it is also well known that crystals can even generate electric current. Towards that end, it is well known that crystals, such as quartz, can generate electricity using a piezoelectric (mechanical energy discharge) method. For example, continuously rapping on a crystal can produce electrical current.

Throughout history—even centuries before the discovery of electricity and the electrical affects with crystals—many people, including doctors and healers, have considered crystals to provide healing qualities. For example, it is commonly considered that holding crystals or placing them on or closely proximate one's body, there is a potential for promoting of physical healing and/or emotional healing. It is commonly believed that crystals do this by positively interacting with one's body's energy field (e.g., electromagnetic energy field).

Although some individuals may question the veracity of a body's energy field, it is widely known and understood that our physical biology includes electrical aspects—such as, e. g., from the operation of our brains and nervous system to various other bioelectrical processes within the body. Moreover, as our bodies are made of atoms, our physical bodies necessarily produce electrical fields. For example, such magnetic fields are readily measured, such as, e.g., using a biomagnetism measurement device, such as, e.g., superconducting quantum interference devices, which are sensitive to magnetic fluxes several orders of magnitude below the typical strength of biomagnetic effects.

Although there may be some question as to the “results” due to the interactive effects of “crystals” on the bodies of people and other animals, it is unquestionable that there are “effects” and “interactions” between crystals and one's body.

While many people, doctors and healers fully support the theory that crystals can have healing properties, it is also unequivocal that many individuals truly believe in the healing effects of such crystals. Accordingly, preferred embodiments of the present invention can, at the very least, provide substantial utility by providing a device believed to have certain qualities based on the physical properties of the device.

Illustrative Fabrics

In some illustrative and non-limiting examples, fabrics employed for the blanket having pockets that contain weighting material is a microfiber material. However, in other embodiments, various fabrics and/or other materials and/or combinations thereof can be employed, such as, by way of example, cotton, bamboo, microfiber and other synthetics.

Illustrative Blanket Sizes and Weights

In some illustrative embodiments, the size and weight of the blanket can be selected as desired based on circumstances. In some illustrative embodiments, blankets can have a size and/or weight as, per embodiment>set forth in the above-listed U.S. Patent Publications, which are incorporated herein by reference. In some illustrative and non-limiting examples, blankets can have a weight of 15 lbs, while in other examples blankets can have a weight of 20 lbs, while in other examples blankets can have a weight of 30 lbs, while in other examples blankets can have a weight of 40 lbs, while in other examples blankets can have a weight of 50 lbs. A preferred range of blanket sizes is, thus, between about 5 lbs to 75 lbs, or, more preferably, between about 10 lbs to 60 lbs, or, more preferably, between about 15 lbs to 50 lbs. However, blankets of greater weights could also be made in some embodiments.

In some preferred embodiments, the blanket is sized and configured to be used by a single user. Although the dimensions of the blanket can vary is various embodiments, in some illustrative examples, a blanket is provided that has a size of about 42-62″×67-87″, or in some illustrative examples, about 52″×77 ′. In other embodiments, the blanket can be configured to have a variety of other sizes and dimensions. Moreover, although the blanket is preferably configured to be used by a single individual, in some embodiments, the blanket can be substantially larger and adapted to be used by multiple individuals.

In some illustrative embodiments, the weighted blanket can be substantially rectangular like a common sleeping blanket, and can have a surface area of between about 2000 square inches to about 6000 square inches, and can have a weight per square inch of between about 0.0017 pounds per square inch to about 0.0375 pounds per square inch. In some preferred embodiments, the weighted blanket can have a weight per square inch of about 0.0075 pounds per square inch. In some embodiments, the weighted blanket can have a weight per square inch of between about 0.005 to 0.015 pounds per square inch. In some embodiments, the weight blanket can have a weight per unit area as calculated based on the previously described illustrative dimensions and illustrative weights, with the understanding that all illustrative described dimensional sizes can be paired with all illustrative described weights. Moreover, the described illustrative weights and sizes can be varied in other embodiments, such as, +or −10%, or +or, −20%, or +or−40%, or +or −60%, or more in some other embodiments.

Moreover, as described herein below, in some preferred embodiments, the blanket is sized to cover a small limited portion of a user, such as, e.g., the face of a user. In such limited size embodiments, the weight per unit area can be similar to another of the embodiments described in this application.

Illustrative Crystal Distributions

In some preferred embodiments, the blanket includes a plurality of pockets, which each include a distribution of crystals and other filler materials. In the most preferred embodiments, the other filler materials include glass beads. In some illustrative embodiments, the blanket includes about 15-35%, by weight, crystals and about 85-65%, by weight, filler materials (e.g., glass beads in some more preferred embodiments. In some more preferred embodiments, the blanket includes about 20-30%, by weight, of crystals and about 80-70%, by weight, of filler materials (e.g., glass beads). In some most preferred embodiments, the blanket includes about 25%, by weight, crystals and about 75%, by weight, other filler material (e.g., glass beads).

In some preferred embodiments, the distribution of crystals and filler materials within each pocket of the blanket is similar to that of the entire blanket. However, in some embodiments, the distribution of crystals to filler can vary between pockets. In the preferred embodiments, pockets within the blanket that are likely to be aligned with a user's body during use would preferably have a crystal percentage of within a range of preferred embodiments of the blanket discussed above. For example, in some embodiments. a lower percentage of crystals can be placed within pockets along perimeter edges of the blanket, such as e.g., within about 6 inches from a perimeter edges, the percentages of crystals can be substantially reduced (or even eliminated such as being reduced to 0%). In some other embodiments, within about 12 inches from a perimeter edges, the percentages of crystals can be substantially reduced, or, in some embodiments, within another distance from one or more perimeter edges, the percentages of crystals can be substantially reduced.

Moreover, in some embodiments, crystals can be distributed in a manner to differ between pockets within the blanket in a predetermined pattern or arrangement. For example, in some embodiments, crystals can be distributed within selected pockets that may align with one or more pre-determined regions that align with predetemined portions of an average height adult person.

In the most preferred embodiments, the filler material incorporated within the pockets of the blanket along with the crystal includes glass beads, glass pebbles or glass pearls (which terms are used interchangeably within the disclosure). Such glass beads or the like preferably are substantially smooth such that the glass beads flow readily with respect to one another. In the preferred embodiments, the glass beads are substantially smaller than the average crystal size. However, in some embodiments, the glass beads could be made a similar size or even larger than the crystals.

Although glass beads or the like are most preferred, in some other embodiments, other filler material could be used, such as, by way of example, sand. However, sand is less preferably because it has a tendency to accumulate and absorb moisture. As the blanket is intended to be to enhance health and wellbeing, accumulation of water is undesirable. Moreover, sand can also have a tendency to generate dust or other allergens. Accordingly sand is a less desirable alternative. Although glass beads are the post preferred filler material, other filler materials can be employed in various other embodiments, including, e.g., ceramics, polymeric materials, and or other materials.

Discussion of the Illustrated Embodiments

With reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a plan view of a blanket BK according to some illustrative embodiments of the invention, having an array of substantially rectangular pockets PK, with a blown-up view illustrating internal contents of one of the pockets of the blanket depicted at the right side of the figure. In the preferred embodiment, the pockets PK are formed by stitching or quilting together two fabric sheets, such that the fabric sheets are sewn together along the horizontal and vertical lines shown in the figure such as to create a plurality of individual pockets. In the preferred embodiments, the contents within each respective pocket does not flow or leak or otherwise migrate between the pockets.

As shown in FIG. 1 in the preferred embodiments the interior contents of each of the pockets includes a distribution of crystal pebbles and glass pebbles. In the preferred embodiments, the distribution of the crystal pebbles and the glass pebbles can be within a range of any of the embodiments described herein. By way of example, in some illustrative and non-limiting examples the distribution of crystal pebbles is about 15-35%, by weight, and the distribution of glass pebbles is, accordingly, 85-65%, by weight. Although the crystal pebbles in FIG. 1 are illustrated as approximately the same size as the glass pebbles, in the more preferred embodiments, the crystal pebbles include larger sizes than the sizes of the glass pebbles. Notably, in the preferred embodiments, at least some of the crystal pebbles are larger than all of the glass pebbles, or, in sonic embodiments, preferably all or substantially all of the crystal pebbles are larger than all of the glass pebbles.

With reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, FIG. 2 is an explanatory side view showing fabrication of a blanket according to some of the preferred embodiments, and FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the portion shown between vertical dashed lines in FIG. 2.

As shown, in some embodiments, the blanket is formed by joining together two sheets, such as, e.g., a fabric top sheet FT and a fabric bottom sheet FB. As illustrated, in some embodiments, during the fabrication process the fabric bottom sheet FB is placed on a platform P or other surface, then a distribution of crystal pebbles and glass pebbles (or other crystal pieces and glass pieces) is spread out on top of the fabric bottom sheet FB. Thereafter, the fabric top sheet FT is placed over the distribution of crystals.

In the preferred embodiments, the crystal pebbles are substantially evenly distributed within the glass pebbles, whereby when individual pockets are formed, each pocket preferably has a generally similar distribution of crystals and glass therein.

In some preferred embodiments, after the crystals and glass are distributed between the two sheets as shown in FIG. 3, a sewing device or sewing machine SM is used to sew individual pockets. Towards that end, in the preferred embodiments, the crystal pebbles C and the glass beads or other filler F are preferably sized and configured such that a needle N of the sewing device or sewing machine SM will readily pass through both sheets FT and FB, and the distribution of crystals and glass therebetween.

Although FIGS. 2 and 3 show some illustrative preferred methods for forming, the blanket, the blanket can be formed in a variety of other ways in other embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, rather than having a needle N penetrate and pass through the sheets in a manner to potentially abut the crystals distributed therebetween, ire sonic embodiments, the distribution of crystals and glass can be controlled such as to avoid presence of crystals and/or glass at locations that the needle N is to sew or quilt the pockets. Additionally, in some embodiments, a system can be established that forms and fills pockets in an assembly line methodology. For example, in some embodiments, the two blanket sheets can be attached in a vertical configuration, and pockets formed sequentially from a bottom of the sheets, then for each row of pockets, after stitching the bottom and sides of the pockets, the machine can convey the distribution of crystals and class into the respective pockets, and then the pockets can be sewn closed, and the machine can then proceed to filling the next row of pockets. It should be appreciated that the blankets of the present invention can be fabricated in a variety of ways by those in the art, such as, e.g., employing fabrication methods as described in any of the Patent Publications cited herein.

In some illustrative embodiments, the crystals have a maximum diameter of less than 10 mm. In some preferred embodiments, the crystals have a maximum diameter of less than 9 mm. In some preferred embodiments the crystals have a maximum diameter of less than 8 mm. In sonic preferred embodiments, the crystals have a maximum diameter of less than 7 mm. In some preferred embodiments, the crystals have a diameter of less than 6 mm. some preferred embodiments, the crystals have a maximum diameter of less than 5 mm.

In some illustrative embodiments, the sizes of the crystals will vary, but are preferably configured to enable fabrication using the methodology shown in FIG. 3.

In some preferred embodiments, the crystals are fabricated from irregularly shaped (e.g., chipped) crystals, and prior to fabrication of the blanket, the crystals ate polished or otherwise processed to further smooth the surface of the crystal.

Although FIG. 1 shows a blanket having an array of substantially rectangular pockets, the structure of the pockets can be formed as desired, as long as the pockets are configured to help maintain a respective distribution of the crystals with respect to the glass within the blanket.

Moreover, it should be appreciated that the sizes of the pockets can vary depending on circumstances. By way of example, with rectangular pockets, the pockets can have, e.g., a dimension of y by x of between about4 ×4″ (i.e., inches) to 12×12 or in some illustrative examples, about 5×7″, or in some other illustrative embodiments, about 8×10″.

FIGS. 4A to 4F are plan views of some illustrative blanket pocket formation according to some illustrative embodiments, wherein FIG. 4A shows an array of substantially rectangular pockets, FIG. 4B shows an array of substantially diamond-shaped pockets, FIG. 4C shows an array of irregularly shaped pockets, FIG. 4D shows an illustrative array of substantially diamond shaped pockets in which the contents of the pockets varies between pockets (such as, e.g., wherein the white diamond shaped pockets can include, e.g., a distribution of crystals as per embodiments of the invention, and the black diamond shape pockets can include a different distribution or even no crystals therein, FIG. 4E shows an arrangement of illustrative brick-shaped pockets, and FIG. 4F shows an arrangement that employs a more limited number of pockets (such as, e.g., six pockets shown in this illustrative example). In other illustrative embodiments, the pockets can have a variety of other shapes, such as, e.g., hexagonal, triangular, and/or other polygonal shapes and/or other irregular shapes.

As discussed herein above, in various embodiments, the distribution of crystals within the blanket can be varied. That is, while some preferred embodiments employ a blanket having an array of pockets, with each pocket having a substantially similar distribution, in some embodiments, the distribution of crystals within the blanket can be modified. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 4D in some embodiments, pockets having a distribution of crystals can be alternatively distributed or otherwise distributed within the blanket. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 4D, an illustrative array of substantially diamond shaped pockets is shown in which the contents of the pockets varies between pockets (such as, e.g., wherein the white diamond shaped pockets can include, e.g., a distribution of crystals as per embodiments of the invention, and the black diamond shape pockets can include a different. distribution or even to crystals therein.

For example, as discussed above, FIG. 5 shows a plan view of an illustrative embodiment wherein crystal distribution can be focused more substantially or only within a limited region (e.g., shown in dashed lines) such as to more particularly align with certain body portions of a user in some preferred implementations. In the preferred embodiment, while the weight distribution of the blanket will preferably be substantially consistent (e.g., with the various pockets having a similar amount of material (e.g., crystals and/or glass) by weight formed therein, in some embodiments the distribution of crystals can be increased within certain regions.

For example, as shown in FIG. 5, in some embodiments, a region (shown in dashed lines) that corresponds to likely placement alongside certain body parts of a user (e.g., having a average height of about 5′6″ to 6′ in some embodiments) during normal use. For example, in some embodiments, the region shown in dashed lines in FIG. 5 will align with a user's throat region TR, chest region CR, navel region NR, and perineum region PR as shown in FIG. 6. Notably, these regions also correspond to commonly described so called energy centers or chakras of the body, which are locatable under a blanket during normal use.

Accordingly, in some examples, the pockets of the blanket outside of the dashed region can have substantially less or even no crystals distributed therein. However, as indicated above, the weight distribution of the blanket is preferably substantially consistent across the blanket for ease and comfort during use and for operation as a weighted blanket, with the benefits of a weighted blanket. Towards that end, see, e.g., the Patent Publications cited herein in relation to illustrative functions and benefits of a weighted blanket—including, e.g., for relaxation and other therapeutic purposes.

Referring now to FIGS. 7-8, these figures show another illustrative blanket that is similar to that shown in FIGS. 5-6, but wherein crystal distribution is focused more substantially or only within limited regions (e.g., shown in dashed lines) such as to more particularly align with certain body portions of a user in some preferred implementations. For example, in the illustrative embodiment, the blanket can have particular regions that align with each of the throat region TR, chest region CR, navel region NR, and perineum region PR, as well as with the palm region PMR and ball of foot region BFR (see, e.g., lateral sides of FIG. 7 and the bottom of FIG. 7, respectively).

For reference, FIG. 9 is a schematic side view showing an illustrative blanket according to some preferred embodiments e., shown in dashed lines), wherein the blanket is a weighted blanket, such that the weight of the blanket causes the blanket to more closely follow contours of a user's body, such as to cause the crystals within the weighted blanket to be drawn closer to certain regions of the user's body due to the increased weight of the blanket.

Notably, by advantageously distributing crystals within a weighted blanket, unlike a non-weighted blanket, the weight of the blanket (e.g., with common flexible fabric used with non-weighted blankets) will cause the blanket to closely follow the contours of the user's body. As a result, the crystals distributed within the blanket will be brought closely adjacent to or snuggly against, a user's body. Thus, the crystals within the blanket will be located closer to the laser's body. Notably, as discussed above, it should be appreciated that crystals have electromagnetic qualities that are enhanced based on proximity. Accordingly, by locating the crystals within a weighted blanket that thus, brings the crystals closer to the user's body, especially at regions of the body labeled in FIG. 9, the blanket will necessarily a) help enhance the electromagnetic interaction between the crystals and the user's body and b) increase a user's enjoyment and well-being based on their believed benefit therefrom or, according to some doctors, based on health benefits therefrom.

With reference to FIG. 9, the use of the weighted blanket advantageously draws the blanket down to a user's throat region (i.e., rather than tending to stay above a user's throat in a common non-weighted blanket), causes the blanket to more snuggly rest upon a user's chest region CR and navel region NR, causes the blanket to fall between a user's legs such as to extend further downward towards the perineum region PR (i.e., rather than tending to drape across a user's legs to create a “tent” like space resulting in more likely separation of the blanket from the user's perineum region PR. Moreover, as also shown, the blanket can be readily positioned to drape close to a user's ball of foot region BFR and/or palm region PMR due to the increased weight of the blanket.

With reference to FIG. 10, FIG. 10 is a plan view of an illustrative weighted blanket according to some preferred embodiments, which also includes an outer cover into which the weighted blanket is inserted during use. As shown, in some preferred embodiments, a weighted blanket BK can be formed as described above, and, during use, it can be inserted into a cover CV (shown at the right side of FIG. 10), similar to a duvet cover or pillow case. By way of example, the outer cover can be formed with softer. plush, and comfortable materials or fabrics in some preferred embodiments. In some illustrative examples, the blanket BK can be inserted into an open end or slot of the cover CV (see large black arrow pointing to open end or slot), and the blanket can be inserted into the cover. Moreover, in some preferred embodiments, the blanket BK can be secured such as to spam across the entire interior of the cover CV by employing a plurality of buttons BT that connect the perimeter of the blanket BK to the cover CV. Although four buttons are shown, it should be appreciated that any appropriate number of buttons can be used. Similarly, any other suitable attachment mechanisms, such as, e.g., clips, etc., can be used in other embodiments.

In this manner, in the preferred embodiments, the outer cover CV can be removed and washed for more consistent cleaning and washing. In some preferred embodiments, the blanket BK can also be washed, but in view of the weighting, as washing is more complicated, it is more desirable to include an outer cover CV that can be more frequently washed. However, such an outer cover is not required in various embodiments.

Limited-Body-Covering Blanket Embodiments

In some alternative embodiments, a blanket according to the present invention can be configured to cover or extend over a limited portion of an individual user's body. For example, in some embodiments, the blanket can be configured to extend over a portion of a user's head or face, such as, e.g., to extend over a user's eyes, such as, e.g., in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B. In alternative embodiments, a blanket can be configured to extend over other limited portions of a user's body, such as, e.g., to extend over a user's chest, to extend over a user's shoulders, to extend over one or both of the user's arms or to extend over one or both of the user's legs.

In some implementations of such embodiments in which the blanket is configured to extend, over a limited portion of a user's body, the blanket is configured to have a weight per unit area that is similar to the weight per unit area of the previously described blanket embodiments discussed above in relation to FIGS. 1-10. Accordingly, the limited-body-covering blanket embodiments would have similar weighting benefits of the previously described embodiments. but targeted to more specific and limited parts of a user's body.

In the preferred embodiments of the limited-body-covering blanket embodiments, the blankets contain similar filler materials to that of any of the above-described embodiments discussed above in relation to FIGS. 1-10. Towards that end, in the preferred embodiments, the limited-body covering blankets include one or more pockets, which include a distribution of crystals and other filler materials. In the most preferred embodiments, similar to embodiments discussed above, the other filler materials include glass beads. In some illustrative embodiments, the blanket includes about 15-35%, by weight, crystals and about 85-65%, by weight, filler materials (e.g., glass beads in some more preferred embodiments). Various other embodiments of the limited-body-covering blanket embodiments can include other distributions of materials and arrangements of materials similar to that of any of the previously described embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-10.

With reference to the particular limited-body-covering blanket embodiment shown in FIG. 11A, the blanket includes a face covering blanket FBI that is configured to extend over the eyes of a user. In some embodiments, the face covering blanket FBK is generally similar in shape to a common light-obscuring eye mask that a user may wear to facilitate sleep by blocking ambient light from a user's eyes. However, in contrast to a common light-obscuring eye mask, the embodiment shown in FIG. 11A would be a weighted blanket having outer peripheral faces similar to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-10 and an interior weighted filler similar to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-10.

As with the embodiments described above with respect to FIGS. 1-10, in the preferred embodiments the interior weighted filler includes a distribution of crystals along with glass beads. Moreover. the distribution of crystals and glass beads can be similar to the embodiments discussed above with respect to FIGS. 1-10.

In some illustrative embodiments, the blanket shown in FIG. 11A can have a height h sized to extend over the height of the eye socket of a common user. In some illustrative embodiments, the height h can be between about 6 to 15 cm, while in some other illustrative embodiments, the height h can be between about 7 to 13 cm, while in some other illustrative embodiments, the height h can be between about 8 to 12 cm, while in some other illustrative embodiments, the height h can be about 10 cm. In addition, in some embodiments, the blanket shown in FIG. 11A can have a width w of between about 20 to 35 cm, while in some other illustrative embodiments, the width w can be between about 25 to 30 cm, while in some other illustrative embodiments, the width w can be about 27 cm.

In some embodiments, the blanket FBK can be fabricated with two outer fabric layers that are connected around the perimeter edges of the blanket to have an interior space or cavity similar to the embodiments described above with respect to FIGS. 1-10. In addition, in some embodiments, the entire interior space or cavity can be open such as to have a single interior pocket for retaining filler material, such as, e.g., a distribution of crystals and glass beads according to embodiments described above.

Alternatively, as with the embodiments discussed above with respect to FIGS. 1-10, the blanket FBK can include a plurality of interior pockets PK, which can include a distribution of filler materials similar to the embodiments discussed above with respect to FIGS. 1-10. For example, in some illustrative embodiments, as shown in FIG. 11B, a row of pockets PK can be included. In the illustrative embodiment shown in FIG. 1113, a plurality of pockets PK (5 in the illustrative embodiment) extend along in a single row across the blanket FBK. In other embodiments, a plurality of rows of pockets PK can be provided. In other embodiments, an array=of pockets PK can be distributed through-out the blanket FBK. The number of pockets and the sizes of the pockets can be set as desired. In some illustrative embodiments. the pockets PK shown in FIG. 11B can have a dimension of about 1.5 cm (in a height h direction)0 by 4.4. cm (in a width w direction). In various other embodiments, the pocket sizes can be varied +or −10%, or +or −25%, or +or −50%, or otherwise varied as desired.

In some preferred embodiments, each of the pockets PK shown in FIG. 11B can include at least one crystal therein, along with other filler material.

In some preferred embodiments, the blanket FBK is configured to extend over both the eyes and the forehead of a user. In some embodiments, when extending over the forehead of the user, the crystals within the blanket FBK can be positioned over the user's forehead. In some preferred embodiments, the crystals within the blanket can be positioned specifically over a central portion of a user's forehead corresponding to a region commonly associated with a user's so-called third eve region. As with the other embodiments described in relation to FIGS. 1-10, the so called third eye region is commonly identified as a region of the body having certain bioelectrical characteristics. Accordingly, by situating crystals within such a weighted blanket. FBK over this region, a user can benefit from the placement in a plurality of ways: a) first, the user can enjoy the concept of this placement, b) second, the user can potentially physically benefit from this placement; c) third, the user can engage in relaxation, resting or meditation with this placement. Notably, the third eye region is commonly identified as a region of the body that relates to visualization, including within dreaming and other visualizations. Accord in placement of such an eye-covering blanket with crystals distributed over this third eye region can substantially contribute to a user's thoughtful relaxation, mindfulness and wellbeing.

As shown in both the embodiment of FIG. 11A and in the embodiment shown in FIG. 11B, the blanket FBK can include a notch or cut-out region NCO to accommodate a user's nose to comfortable rest over the user's eye region.

In some embodiments, the entire blanket shown in FIG. 11A and the entire blanket shown in FIG. 11B can include weighted material, whereby the blanket will apply some pressure over the user's eyes. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the blanket FBK can include weighted material only in a portion of the blanket FBK. For example, in some embodiments, the blanket FBK can be non-weighted in a region that extends directly over the user's eyes. For example, as shown in FIG. 11B, in some embodiments a region along only a top side of the blanket (similar to that shown in FIG. 11B) can include pockets PK with weighted material, and this region with pockets PK can be configured to rest on the forehead of the user (e.g., over the third eye region and/or other portions of the user's forehead). In this manner, the blanket FBK can be more comfortable over a user's eyes if the user prefers to avoid pressure on the user's eyes. In some embodiments, as with common eye masks, the extension portions on either side of the notch NCO can even be slightly cup shaped or otherwise configured to actually be raised over or spaced apart from the user's eyes, while, concurrently, the region of the pockets PK can apply pressure to the user's forehead.

Broad Scope of the Invention

While illustrative embodiments of the invention have been described herein the present invention is not limited to the various preferred embodiments described herein, but includes any and all embodiments having equivalent elements, modifications, omissions, combinations (e.g., of aspects across various embodiments), adaptations and/or alterations as would be appreciated by those in the art based on the present disclosure. The limitations in the claims are to be interpreted broadly based on the language employed in the claims and not limited to examples described in the present specification or during the prosecution of the application, which examples are to be construed as non-exclusive. For example, in the present disclosure. the term “preferably” is non-exclusive and means “preferably, but not limited to.” In this disclosure and during the prosecution of this application, means-plus-function or step-plus-function limitations will only be employed where for a specific claim limitation all of the following conditions are present in that limitation: a) “means for” or “step for” is expressly recited; b) a corresponding function is expressly recited; and c) structure, material or acts that support that structure are not recited. In this disclosure and during the prosecution of tins application, the terminology “present invention” or “invention” may be used as a reference to one or more aspect within the present disclosure. The language present invention or invention should not be improperly interpreted as an identification of criticality, should not be improperly interpreted as applying across all aspects or embodiments (i.e., it should be understood that the present invention has a number of aspects and embodiments), and should not be improperly interpreted as limiting the scope of the application or claims. In this disclosure and during the prosecution of this application, the terminology “embodiment” can be used to describe any aspect, feature, process or step, any combination thereof, anti or any portion thereof, etc. In some examples, various embodiments may include overlapping features. In this disclosure, the following abbreviated terminology may be employed: “e.g.” which means “for example.”

Claims

1. A weighted blanket, comprising:

at least one pocket distributed across said blanket as seen in a plan view of the blanket;

said at least one pocket each having weighted material distributed therein;

wherein the weighted material in at least one of said at least one pocket includes a distribution of crystals within a filler material.

2. The weighted blanket of claim 1, therein:

said at least one pocket includes a plurality of pockets distributed across said blanket as seen in a plan view of the blanket;

said plurality of pockets each having weighted material distributed therein;

wherein the weighted material within a plurality of said plurality of pockets includes a distribution of crystals within a filler material.

3. The weighted blanket of claim 2, wherein said weighted blanket weighs more than 10 lbs.

4. The weighted blanket of claim 2, wherein said weighted blanket weighs more than 15 lbs.

5. The weighted blanket of claim 2, wherein said weighted blanket weighs more than 40 lbs.

6. The weighted blanket of claim 2, wherein said filler material includes glass beads or pebbles.

7. The weighted blanket of claim 6, wherein said crystals include crystals having a maximum diameter of between about 2 to 10 main.

8. The weighted blanket of claim 6, wherein said crystals include crystals having a maximum diameter of between about 2 to 8 mm.

9. The weighted blanket of claim 6, wherein said crystals include crystals having a maximum diameter of between about 4 to 6 mm.

10. The weighted blanket of claim 6, wherein said filler material includes glass beads or pebbles having a maximum diameter less than that of at least some of said crystals.

11. The weighted blanket of claim 2, wherein said crystals within said plurality of said plurality of pockets is at a distribution of crystals to the filler material between about 65-85 % of the weight.

12. The weighted blanket of claim 6, wherein said crystals within said plurality of said plurality of pockets is at a distribution of crystals to the glass beads oil pebbles between about 65-85 of the weight.

13. The weighted blanket of claim 2, wherein said blanket is configured to extend over a substantial portion of a length of a user's body.

14. The weighted blanket of claim 12, wherein said blanket is substantially rectangular.

15. The weighted blanket of claim 1, wherein said blanket is configured to extend over a limited region of a user's body.

16. The weighted blanket of claim 15, wherein said limited region of the user's body is over a user's head.

17. The weighted blanket of claim 16, wherein said limited region of the user's body includes over the user's eyes.

18. The weighted blanket of claim 17, wherein said limited region of the user's body includes over the user's forehead.

19. A method of making the weighted blanket of claim 2, comprising:

placing a distribution of crystals and glass beads or pebbles over a first sheet placing a second sheet over said distribution of crystals and glass beads or pebbles; and

sewing or quilting the first and second sheets together to form pockets having said crystals and glass beads or pebbles distributed therein.

20. A method of using the weighted blanket of claim 19, comprising:

placing the weighted blanket over a user, with the weight of the blanket causing the blanket to contact regions of a user's body, such that the crystals are located in close proximity to the user's body.

21. The method of claim 20, further including locating the crystals in close proximity to at least one of a throat region, a chest region, a navel region or a perineum region of the user's body.

22. The method of claim 20, further including locating the crystals in close proximity to a user's forehead.