Abstract: An elastic device providing means of controlling its stiffness by controlling the tension of the string or group of springs resulting in adjustable transverse stiffness of it, arranged in matrix to enable the control of spatial stiffness of a 2D matrix in unlimited resolution.

Abstract: A body support for providing a beneficial effect has a frame and a first and a second plurality of flexible parallel bands, which are interdigitated. A primary shaft rotatably mounted in a frame can tighten and slacken the first plurality of bands. This can be done by having the shaft wind and unwind the first plurality of bands or by appropriately positioning a camshaft or the like at one edge of the body support surface to adjustably hold each of the first plurality of bands there. In the latter case the shaft provides a plurality of support locations at the first edge of the support surface that are moved, in order to alternately tighten and slacken the first plurality of bands. Other disclosed apparatus and methods can tighten and slacken the second plurality of bands as well.

Abstract: A bedding foundation is manufactured with a cover having a welt cord extending upwardly to create a seal when a mattress is placed on the foundation. The cover is made using a two stage process. During the first stage a sewing machine is used to join a welt cord to a web of border material. In the second stage a second sewing machine sews a piece of non-skid decking to the border assembly. Fullness may be incorporated into the border material to enable the cover to fit around the corners of the bedding foundation with the welt cord being spaced inwardly from the perimeter of the foundation.