MATTRESS COVER FOR ALTERNATING AIR PADS

Abstract

Mattress covers for alternating air pads are described herein. In one embodiment, an alternating air mattress system can include an alternating air pad, including a plurality of transverse tubes each defining an input gap and an output gap, where each tube is in fluidic communication with an adjacent transverse tube via the input gap or the output gap of the tube, and a corresponding output gap or input gap of the adjacent tube, a first foam pad, and a mattress cover, including a bottom layer having a first edge, an intermediate layer having a second edge that is removably coupled to the first edge, and an upper layer having a second edge that is removably coupled to the first edge, wherein the coupled first and second edges define a cavity for positioning the first foam pad above the alternating air pad.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority under Title 35, United States Code, Section 119(e), to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/981,469 titled “Mattress Cover for Alternating Air Pads,” filed Feb. 25, 2020, which is incorporated herein, in its entirety, by this reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This disclosure relates generally to a mattress cover, and more specifically to a mattress cover for an alternating air pad.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Traditionally, many users of alternating pressure air mattresses complain that the mattresses are uncomfortable in the static mode and even more so when in the alternating mode. The air cells are made out of a polyurethane, nylon, and/or PVC material and the rigidness of the material coupled with the movement of the bladders causes discomfort which is often not alleviated by the adjustment of the pump's airflow. The discomfort caused by the alternating cycle can often cause the end user to turn off the system, which can disrupt therapy and can cause additional skin damage. Inserting a foam pocket underneath the top cover can create a more comfortable and tolerable surface so that the end user will not feel the need to turn off the alternating cycle.

SUMMARY

Mattress covers for alternating air pad systems are described herein. In one aspect, an alternating air mattress system can include an alternating air pad, including a plurality of transverse tubes each defining an input gap and an output gap, where each tube is in fluidic communication with an adjacent transverse tube via the input gap or the output gap of the tube, and a corresponding output gap or input gap of the adjacent tube, a first foam pad, and a mattress cover, including a bottom layer having a first edge, an intermediate layer having a second edge that is removably coupled to the first edge, and an upper layer having a second edge that is removably coupled to the first edge, wherein the coupled first and second edges define a cavity for positioning the first foam pad above the alternating air pad.

This aspect can have a variety of embodiments. In some cases, the mattress cover can further include an intermediary layer having a third edge that is removably coupled to the second edge, wherein the coupled second and third edges define a bottom cavity for positioning the alternating air mattress below the first foam pad.

In some cases, each transverse tube of the plurality of transverse tubes are coupled to at least one adjacent transverse tube of the plurality of transverse tubes. Additionally, the coupling of the transverse tubes can include stitching, adhesive, a set of valves, a set of joints, or a combination thereof.

In some cases, the alternating air pad can further include an entry tube defining an entry gap and an output gap, where the entry tube is in fluidic communication with a transverse tube of the plurality of transverse tubes via the output gap of the entry tube and a corresponding input gap of the transverse tube, and where the entry tube is configured to receive fluid from a fluid source via the entry gap. In some cases, the first foam pad can include polyurethane, latex, cotton, wool, polyester fiber quilting, or a combination thereof.

In some cases, the mattress cover can further include another upper layer having a fourth edge that is removably coupled to the second edge, where the coupled second and fourth edges define another cavity for positioning a second foam pad above the first foam pad. Additionally, the second foam pad can include a different length, width, thickness, composition, or a combination thereof, than the first foam pad.

In some cases, the mattress cover can further include at least one fabric divider disposed transversally within the cavity, where the at least one fabric divider further defines the cavity into a first upper cavity for positioning the first foam pad above the alternating air pad, and at least a second upper cavity for positioning a second foam pad above the alternating air pad. In some cases, the mattress cover can further include nylon, polyester, cotton, wool, linen, twill, flannel, thermoplastic polyurethane, plastic, rubber, elastic, polyester fiber quilting, or a combination thereof.

In another aspect, an alternating air bed can include an air mattress bed, including a bed frame configured to support an alternating air mattress system, a fluid source configured to couple to an alternating air pad, and at least one processor configured to control a volume of fluid from the volume source to the alternating air pad.

In another aspect, an alternating air mattress system can include an alternating air pad, including a plurality of transverse tubes each defining an input gap and an output gap, where each tube is in fluidic communication with an adjacent transverse tube via the input gap or the output gap of the tube, and a corresponding output gap or input gap of the adjacent tube, and a mattress cover, including a bottom layer having a first edge, an intermediate layer having a second edge that is removably coupled to the first edge, and an upper layer having a third edge that is removably coupled to the second edge, where the coupled first and second edges define a bottom cavity for positioning the alternating air pad, and where the coupled second and third edges define a top cavity above the alternating air pad.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a fuller understanding of the nature and desired objects of the present invention, reference is made to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing figures wherein like reference characters denote corresponding parts throughout the several views.

FIG. 1 illustrates a mattress cover for an alternating air pad system according to an embodiment of the claimed invention.

FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate a bottom cover and a mattress cover for an alternating aid pad system according to embodiments of the claimed invention.

FIG. 4 illustrates a clasp fastener for a mattress cover according to an embodiment of the claimed invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates a second fabric layer in contact with an alternating air pad according to an embodiment of the claimed invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates a bottom cover and a mattress cover for an alternating aid pad system according to an embodiment of the claimed invention.

FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate a foam pad inserted into a mattress cover according to embodiments of the claimed invention.

FIGS. 9-11 illustrate mattress covers for an alternating air pad according to embodiments of the claimed invention.

DEFINITIONS

The instant invention is most clearly understood with reference to the following definitions.

As used herein, the singular form “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Unless specifically stated or obvious from context, as used herein, the term “about” is understood as within a range of normal tolerance in the art, for example within 2 standard deviations of the mean. “About” can be understood as within 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, 0.1%, 0.05%, or 0.01% of the stated value. Unless otherwise clear from 5 context, all numerical values provided herein are modified by the term about.

As used in the specification and claims, the terms “comprises,” “comprising, ” “containing,” “having,” and the like can have the meaning ascribed to them in U.S. patent law and can mean “includes,” “including,” and the like.

Unless specifically stated or obvious from context, the term “or,” as used herein, is understood to be inclusive.

Ranges provided herein are understood to be shorthand for all of the values within the range. For example, a range of 1 to 50 is understood to include any number, combination of numbers, or sub-range from the group consisting 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, or 50 (as well as fractions thereof unless the context clearly dictates otherwise).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Mattress Cover

Embodiments of the invention described herein relate to a mattress cover for an alternating air pad. The mattress cover can include a pocket underneath the top surface of the mattress cover, which can retain a foam pad within. The foam pad can in some cases provide additional comfort to a user of the alternating air pad, which can facilitate the therapy provided by the alternating air pad. In some cases, the mattress cover can include dividers within the pocket to compartmentalize different foam pads within the pocket. Further, the mattress cover can attach to a bottom cover supporting the air mattress that, when connected, enclose the alternating air pad and the foam pad between the mattress cover and bottom cover. In other cases, the mattress cover can be secured to the alternating air pad itself, or to the bed supporting the alternating air pad system.

The inclusion of the pockets allows the end user to customize the foam density, thickness and their placement (shoulder, mid-section and heel) depending upon their discomfort and its location.

Historically, users have placed foam pads on top of the alternating air mattress to alleviate discomfort. However, this foam pad can easily become contaminated and unusable by being soiled by urine, blood or any other liquids. The placement of the foam pocket on the underside of the top cover eliminates the need to place foam on top of the mattress and protects the foam pad by the top cover.

Cover Pocket

The mattress cover can include a pocket between fabric layers. The mattress cover can include at least two layers of fabric that are connectable on edges. For example, FIG. 1 provides a mattress cover 105 according to an embodiment of the claimed invention. The mattress cover 105 can include a first layer of fabric 110 and a second layer of fabric 115. The first and second layers can be attached to one another through edges of the first and second layers, respectively. For example, the first and second layers can be attached at edge 120, along the length of the mattress cover 105.

The pocket can be formed by the attached first and second fabric layers. For example, when attached to one another, the first and second fabric layers can define a cavity that comprises the pocket. The first and second fabric layers can be dimensioned such that a foam pad can be positioned within the pocket. For example, FIG. 1 depicts a foam pad 125 inserted between the first fabric layer 110 and the second fabric layer 115. While FIG. 1 illustrates that the height of the foam pad 1125 is approximately 2 inches, one skilled in the art will understand that the insertable foam pad can vary in dimensions. An example of a second fabric layer that rests on top of an alternating air pad is illustrated in FIG. 5. Dividers

The mattress cover can also include a set of dividers positioned in the pocket. These dividers can create compartmentalized spaces within the pocket, such that multiple foam pads can be positioned within the mattress cover. In some cases, a divider can span vertically through the pocket, such that the edges of the divider attach to the first fabric layer and the second fabric layer. These vertical dividers can divide the pocket into different sections, such as for corresponding to different parts of a user's body. As such, the mattress cover can secure different pads within the vertically divided compartments according to as user's requirements for different parts of the user's body (e.g., legs, torso, head, etc.).

Additionally or alternatively, the mattress cover can include a set of horizontal dividers within the pocket. The horizontal dividers can span transversally through the length of the mattress cover, such that the edges of the divider attach to edges of the first fabric and/or the second fabric layer. In some cases, a horizontal divider can be a third fabric layer between the first and second fabric layers. These horizontal dividers can divide the pocket into different “layers,” such that a multiple foam pads can be layered on top of one another (e.g., with a horizontal divider positioned between the foam pads). A user can thus mix-and-match different foam pads to be positioned within the mattress cover.

Vertical dividers are illustrated in FIG. 9, and horizontal dividers are illustrated in FIG. 10. The dotted lines in these FIGS, represent the edges of a divider coupled to a fabric surface of the mattress cover.

Mattress Cover Fabric

The mattress cover can be composed of a variety of different fabrics. For example, the mattress cover can be composed of nylon, polyester, cotton, wool, linen, twill, flannel, thermoplastic polyurethane, polypropylene, plastic, rubber, elastic, polyester fiber quilting, and the like. While the mattress cover can be composed of any of the material listed above, or a combination of the listed material, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the mattress cover can be composed of a variety of materials, and the composition of the mattress cover described herein is not limited to the listed materials.

Fabric Fasteners

The mattress cover can include a variety of fasteners for attaching the fabric layers to one another. In a preferred embodiment, the mattress cover includes a clasp fastener (e.g., a zipper) system running along the edge of the first fabric layer and the second fabric layer. The clasp fastener rows of each fabric layer can be interlocked, thereby attaching the first fabric layer to the second fabric layer, which subsequently forms the pocket between the two layers. An example of a clasp fastener coupled to the mattress cover is illustrated in FIG. 4.

Other forms of fasteners can be used with the mattress ewer as well. For example, tap fasteners, hook and clasp fasteners, hook and loop fasteners, buckles and straps, grommets and rods, and the like, can be used to connect the edge of the first fabric layer to the edge of the second fabric layer. One portion of the fastener (e.g., a set of hooks) can be coupled or fixed to one of the fabric layers, while another portion of the fastener (e.g., a set of latches) can be coupled to the edge of the other fabric layer.

Further, in some cases the fasteners can span the entire edge of the fabric layers, such that the entire perimeter of a fabric layer can be attached to the other fabric layer. Alternatively, fasteners can span only a portion of the perimeter of a fabric layer, such that some of a fabric layer remains unattached (e.g., a side of the mattress cover can remain “open”).

In some cases, a fabric layer can include multiple set of fasteners. For example, in cases where a mattress cover includes three or more fabric layers (e.g., including a horizontal divider), each fabric layer can include fasteners for attaching to adjacent fabric layers. In the case of a middle fabric layer, the middle layer can include fasteners for attaching to a top adjacent layer, and fasteners for attaching to a bottom adjacent layer.

In some cases, the mattress cover can include a set of fasteners to coupling the mattress cover to other portions of the system. For example, the mattress cover can include a set of fasteners for coupling the mattress cover to a bottom cover, which can be positioned below the alternating air pad In some cases, the mattress cover can include a set of fasteners for coupling the mattress cover to a bed frame. Additionally or alternatively, the alternating air pad itself can include a set of fasteners for coupling the alternating air pad to the mattress cover (e.g., in lieu of a bottom cover). For example, the perimeter of the bottom fabric layer of the mattress cover can include a line of elastic material, which can allow for the bottom fabric layer to envelop the height of the alternating air pad, thereby securing the mattress cover to the alternating air pad. An example of the bottom fabric layer having an elastic band is illustrated in FIG. 11, where the dashed line represents the elastic edge of the bottom fabric layer, which can be pulled over an alternating air pad.

Foam Pad

As mentioned, a foam pad can be inserted into the defined pocket of the mattress cover. For example, FIG. 1 depicts a foam pad 125 for insertion into the mattress cover 105. In this embodiment, the foam pad 125 spans the entire length and height of the mattress cover 105. However, the foam pad can vary in dimensions, such that the foam pad can be inserted into a portion of the mattress cover. In some cases, the foam pad can be dimensioned to be insertable into a divided section of the mattress cover, for example divided by horizontal or vertical dividers discussed above. In some cases a foam pad can be inserted in some portions of the top cover, while other portions remain void of a foam pad. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the dimensions of the foam pad can vary according to the intended purpose of the air pad (e.g., head support, torso support, thin support, dense support, and the like).

Further, multiple foam pads can be used in the mattress cover. Foam pads of varying dimensions and compositions can be inserted into the mattress cover. In some cases, foam pads of differing dimensions and/or compositions can be used in conjunction with one another, for example in embodiments of the mattress cover that include dividers.

The foam pad can be composed of a variety of materials. For example, the foam pad can be composed of polyurethane, latex, cotton, wool, densified fiber, and the like. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the foam pad can be composed of a variety of materials not listed in the description. Example of a foam pad inserted within the mattress cover are illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8.

Alternating Air Pad

The mattress cover can in some cases be dimensioned to be placed on top of an alternating air pad. The alternating air pad can include sections with varying inflation times. For example, FIG. 1 depicts an alternating air pad 130. The alternating air pad 130 include a set of air tubes that are configured to receive air from an air inlet. The air tubes can be connected to other air tubes (e.g., in series, in parallel, etc.) such that air flows through the connected air tubes.

The air tubes can be connected to one another via stitching, T joints, glue, and/or valves. Further, air mattress can be configured to flow air through a set of air tubes, while another set of air tubes fail to receive any airflow. Thus, a set of air tubes can be inflated at any one given time, while another set can be inflated at some other time.

As stated above, the mattress cover can be dimensioned to lay on top of an alternating air pad. For example, the second fabric layer 115 of FIG. 1 can be in contact with the alternating air pad. Thus, when a foam pad is inserted into the mattress cover, the foam pad rests on top of the alternating air pad. Further, the fasteners on the first and second fabric layers can, when coupled, secure the foam pad within the pocket.

Bottom Cover

In some cases, a bottom cover can be positioned underneath the alternating air pad that secures to the mattress pad above the alternating air pad. The bottom cover can include a set of fasteners (e.g., along the perimeter) that can couple to a set of fasteners along of the second layer of fabric. Thus, when these fasteners are fastened, the bottom cover can be coupled to the second fabric layer, and therefore the mattress cover, thereby securing the alternating air pad and foam pad within the mattress cover and bottom cover. Examples of a bottom cover and the mattress cover are illustrated in FIGS. 2, 3, and 6.

In some cases, the alternating air pad can be positioned on or in a bottom cover, such as bottom cover 135 of FIG. 1. The bottom cover 135 can include a support frame and an air tube support structure. Additionally, the bottom cover 135 can include a gas input for flowing gas into a connected air pad. The gas input can be controlled by a microprocessor, which can determine when to input gas (e.g., via a set of controllable valves). The alternating air pad can be dimensioned to be positioned on top of the support structure of the bottom cover 135. Further, while dimensions are illustrated in FIG. 1 of the bottom cover 135, one skilled in the art would appreciate that the dimensions of the bottom cover can vary, and are not limited to those specified in the FIGS.

Bed Frame

The mattress covers described herein can be used with a variety of alternating air pads, as well as a variety of bed systems for supporting alternating air pads. Example of bed systems can include, but are not limited to, hospital beds, nursing care beds, outpatient beds, home health care beds, assisted living facility beds, and the like.

EQUIVALENTS

Although preferred embodiments of the invention have been described using specific terms, such description is for illustrative purposes only, and it is to be understood that changes and variations may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the following claims.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

The entire contents of all patents, published patent applications, and other references cited herein are hereby expressly incorporated herein in their entireties by reference.

Claims

1. An alternating air mattress system, comprising:

an alternating air pad, comprising: a plurality of transverse tubes each defining an input gap and an output gap, wherein each tube is in fluidic communication with an adjacent transverse tube via the input gap or the output gap of the tube, and a corresponding output gap or input gap of the adjacent tube;

a first foam pad; and

a mattress cover, comprising: a bottom layer having a first edge; an intermediate layer having a second edge that is removably coupled to the first edge; and an upper layer having a second edge that is removably coupled to the first edge, wherein the coupled first and second edges define a cavity for positioning the first foam pad above the alternating air pad.

2. The alternating air mattress system of claim 1, wherein the mattress cover further comprises:

an intermediary layer having a third edge that is removably coupled to the second edge, wherein the coupled second and third edges define a bottom cavity for positioning the alternating air mattress below the first foam pad.

3. The alternating air mattress system of claim 1, wherein each transverse tube of the plurality of transverse tubes are coupled to at least one adjacent transverse tube of the plurality of transverse tubes.

4. The alternating air mattress of claim 3, wherein the coupling of the transverse tubes comprises stitching, adhesive, a set of valves, a set of joints, or a combination thereof.

5. The alternating air mattress system of claim 1, wherein the alternating air pad further comprises an entry tube defining an entry gap and an output gap, wherein the entry tube is in fluidic communication with a transverse tube of the plurality of transverse tubes via the output gap of the entry tube and a corresponding input gap of the transverse tube, and wherein the entry tube is configured to receive fluid from a fluid source via the entry gap.

6. The alternating air mattress system of claim 1, wherein the first foam pad comprises polyurethane, latex, cotton, wool, densified fiber, or a combination thereof.

7. The alternating air mattress system of claim 1, wherein the mattress cover further comprises another upper layer having a fourth edge that is removably coupled to the second edge, wherein the coupled second and fourth edges define another cavity for positioning a second foam pad above the first foam pad.

8. The alternating air mattress system of claim 7, wherein the second foam pad comprises a different length, width, thickness, composition, or a combination thereof, than the first foam pad.

9. The alternating air mattress system of claim 1, wherein the mattress c over further comprises at least one fabric divider disposed transversally within the cavity, wherein the at least one fabric divider further defines the cavity into a first upper cavity for positioning the first foam pad above the alternating air pad, and at least a second upper cavity for positioning a second foam pad above the alternating air pad.

10. The alternating air mattress system of claim 1, wherein the mattress cover further comprises nylon, polyester, cotton, wool, linen, twill, flannel, thermoplastic polyurethane, plastic, rubber, elastic, polyester fiber quilting, or a combination thereof

11. An alternating air bed, comprising:

an air mattress bed, comprising: a bed frame configured to support the alternating air mattress system of claim 1; a fluid source configured to couple to the alternating air pad; and at least one processor configured to control a volume of fluid from the volume source to the alternating air pad.

12. An alternating air mattress system, comprising:

an alternating air pad, comprising: a plurality of transverse tubes each defining an input gap and an output gap, wherein each tube is in fluidic communication with an adjacent transverse tube via the input gap or the output gap of the tube, and a corresponding output gap or input gap of the adjacent tube; and

a mattress cover, comprising: a bottom layer having a first edge; an intermediate layer having a second edge that is removably coupled to the first edge; and an upper layer having a third edge that is removably coupled to the second edge, wherein the coupled first and second edges define a bottom cavity for positioning the alternating air pad, and wherein the coupled second and third edges define a top cavity above the alternating air pad.