Ground Mat Patents (Class 5/417)
  • Patent number: 6751816
    Abstract: An exercise mat ensemble for use in exercise disciplines such as yoga that involve floor exercises and positions. A vinyl padded sticky mat is covered with a sheet of washable absorbent fabric that overlays the sticky mat on all four sides. The fabric sheet may be extended at one transverse end with sufficient fabric that when folded over more than once it forms a cushion to aid in certain exercises and positions. When the fabric sheet is placed on top of the mat and the two are rolled together the fabric extension encloses the mat within the roll. The extension may also be stitched to form an envelope or stitched on each side to form channels into which drawstrings are placed, both capable of forming a case around the rolled mat and fabric sheet. A strap may be added to the ensemble to assist in certain exercises and positions and also to be incorporated into the rolled mat and fabric sheet for use as a carrying strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Inventor: Barbara Wechsler
  • Mat
    Patent number: 6742203
    Abstract: A mat for use on sand has a lower layer (2) and an upper layer (3). Sand is able to pass through both layers. Sand falling on the upper layer (3) can pass through it and either remain trapped between the two layers or pass through the lower layer (2) to the ground. The perimeters of each layer are preferably sewn together with overlapping tape (4). Suitable materials for the upper layer and lower layer include polypropylene mesh material, particularly shade cloth with a shade rating of approximately 70%. The mat may optionally include a sand-permeable third layer positioned over the upper layer. The third layer may be made from polyvinylchloride-coated nylon mesh material, and may be screen printed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: C Gear Australia Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Christopher John Reynolds
  • Patent number: 6737150
    Abstract: A folding floor mat that is formed from a plurality of panels formed from a resilient polymeric material and having a work surface and a grip surface. Flexible hinge assemblies foldably join at least two of the panels along a fold boundary, which preferably incorporates a plurality of channels that are integrally formed in the work and grip surfaces. More preferably, the channels are laterally spaced apart about the grip and or work sides. Even more preferably, the channel or channels formed in the work surface are staggered relative to the channel or channels formed in the grip surface. Also, each channel is ideally shaped to optimize relief internal material stresses of the polymeric material during and after it has been folded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Assignee: Everwear Professional Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd T. Zahler, James W. Critcher
  • Patent number: 6721973
    Abstract: A beach blanket includes a panel member that has an upper surface and lower surface. The lower surface is for resting on a beach. The upper surface is for supporting a user when the user lies on the upper surface such that the panel member is positioned between the user and the beach. The panel member has a plurality of anchor pockets. Each of the anchor pockets are positioned proximate a perimeter edge of the panel member. Each of the anchor pockets is for receiving some of the sand from the beach such that the anchor pockets anchor the panel member to the beach when the anchor pockets have some of the sand within the anchor pockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Inventor: Joseph F. Cristiano
  • Patent number: 6718576
    Abstract: A mattress pad for vehicle includes a pad member, and a light device having one or more light members attached to the pad member, to generate light through the pad member, and to light or illuminate the inner portions of vehicles, particularly the dark inner portion of the vehicle. The pad member includes one or more swellings each having a space to receive the light member, and each having one or more flanges to engage with and to retain the light members in the swellings of the pad member. The light members each may include a cover secured onto a base to receive one or more circuit boards and one or more light elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Inventor: Jen Hsieh Shih
  • Patent number: 6711766
    Abstract: A plural-panel articulated (segmented) foldable/unfoldable (in a zigzag fashion) structure which can be unfolded and deployed in the form of a rectangular mat, and which can be folded to form plural other shapes, including a fully-folded shape which takes the form of a stack-cube of panels which is very compact in overall size. Each panel includes a central, anti-projectile barrier structure, and a cushioning foam structure, which offers features and advantages relating to fluid buoyancy, thermal insulation, and cushioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignee: MJD Innovations, LLC
    Inventors: Russell A. Monk, Michael R. Dennis
  • Patent number: 6708343
    Abstract: A combination cushion, carry device, and garment apparatus for use as a protective weather resistant garment, blanket, pillow, seat cushion, and transport device. The apparatus has, among other elements, a planar member, a hood, a right sleeve, a left sleeve, a waistband retainer, a carrying system, and a pouch. The sleeves are attached to the apparatus with sleeve attachment devices that allow for a broad range of motion while minimizing the loss of coverage associated with traditional ponchos. The entire apparatus may be folded, rolled, or bunched, for storage and transport in the pouch. The carrying system is attached to the planar member and serves dual functions. The carrying system acts both as a convenient adjustable method of carrying the apparatus during transport and as a method of adjustably securing the apparatus to the body when worn as a garment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: Gloria Ceron
  • Patent number: 6704953
    Abstract: A device is provided to serve a dual purpose of a sleeping bag and sleeping or resting mat for users, e.g., infants and small children, that is easily transportable to an from day care centers or other places while the users are away from their home. The device includes a main body having a front, a back, two sides, a head end, a bottom end, a head section, a body section, and a pocket. The pocket is attached to the sides of the head section and has a slit extending laterally from side to side to receive the main body after it has been rolled up. The sleeping bag in this form is compact and ready for being transported or stored. The body section of the main body has mating zipper halves attached to each sides of the body section to permit parallel zippers to be engaged when the bottom end is adjacent the lateral slit in the pocket. This permits the caregiver to place a child on the front of the bag, bring the bottom end up over the child, and engage each of the parallel zippers without disturbing the child.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Inventor: Zelma Lee Fishman
  • Publication number: 20040040088
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a cover and a compartment having an interior space. The cover is attached to the bottom edge of the compartment such that the cover can be compacted to fit substantially within the interior space of the compartment. The invention further includes a cushion attached to the compartment. The cover is configurable to substantially envelop the upper torso of a user while the user is sitting on the compartment. The present invention provides for a multi-use article that protects a user from the elements and provides a cushion for comfort while being compact, easily transportable and configurable to add aesthetically pleasing as well as functional accessories.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2003
    Publication date: March 4, 2004
    Inventor: Randall Lowell
  • Patent number: 6691344
    Abstract: A collapsible apparatus is provided that includes a frame configured to form a closed loop, the frame being moveable between a coiled configuration and an uncoiled configuration. A sleeve is configured to receive the frame and to define an opening within at least a portion of the closed loop. An attachment mechanism is coupled substantially about the periphery of the sleeve. A fabric member is removably coupled to the sleeve such that it is easily removed. A method of making mats according to an embodiment of the invention includes cutting fabric members from a first sheet of material, cutting body membranes from a second sheet of material such that the amount of excess material from the second sheet of material between adjacent body membranes is minimized, and attaching one of the body membranes to one of the fabric members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventors: Brian E. Le Gette, Justin S. Werner, Alan Tipp, Ronald L. Wilson, II, Matthew Laine
  • Patent number: 6691356
    Abstract: A portable cushion apparatus for positioning between a user and a support surface. The portable cushion apparatus includes a plurality of pad members each having a first portion and a second portion. Each of the pad members is movable between a folded position and an unfolded position. The plurality of pad members includes a first end pad member, A second end pad member, and a plurality of middle pad member. A flexible first coupler is attached to and extends away from a first side of the first end pad member. A flexible second coupler is attached to and extends away from a second side of the second end pad member. The first and second couplers are attached to first and second sides of the plurality of middle pad members respectively. The pad members have a plurality of handles for grasping onto by a hand of a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Charles E. Coma
  • Publication number: 20040025252
    Abstract: A collapsible apparatus includes a frame member being formed from a flexible twistable material, a first membrane and a second membrane, and a cushion. The second membrane is removably attachable to the first membrane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Brian E. Le Gette, Tai Hoon Kim Matlin, James Ashley Waring, Ronald L. Wilson
  • Mat
    Publication number: 20040016054
    Abstract: A beach mat is disclosed which comprises a first layer (2) secured to a second layer (3). Each layer (2, 3) is manufactured from a flexible polypropylene mesh material, suitably shade cloth with a shade rating of approximately 70%. The perimeters of each layer (2, 3) are secured together with overlapping tape (4) which is sewn into position. When the mat (1) is placed on sand (5) with the first layer (2) downwards, any sand that passes upwards through the lower surface of the first layer (2) is retained between the first layer (2) and the second layer (3). Any sand that falls on the upper surface of the second layer (4) and passes therethrough is also retained between the first layer (2) and second layer (3). Optionally, a third layer (7) manufactured from polyvinylchloride-coated nylon mesh material can be positioned over the second layer (3) and the perimeters of each layer (2, 3, 6) secured together with overlapping tape (4). The upper surface of the third layer (7) can be screen-printed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: C GEAR AUSTRALIA PTY LTD.
    Inventor: Christopher John Reynolds
  • Patent number: 6663537
    Abstract: A non-slip exercise mat for use on multiple surfaces including at least one layer of material having a top surface, a bottom surface, and side surfaces. The mat also includes systems for removably securing the mat to carpeted surfaces and for preventing the mat from slipping on non-carpeted surfaces. Both systems can be joined with the bottom surface or joined on opposite surfaces of the mat. The mat may include shock absorbing materials as well as texturized, slip-resistant materials. The sides of the mat may be beveled. The mat may also include a cover for the system for removably securing the mat to carpeted surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Matstep Ltd., LLP
    Inventor: Debra L. McCoy
  • Patent number: 6663936
    Abstract: A substantially rectangular mat comprises an upper layer of fabric (31) bonded to a lower backing layer of natural or synthetic rubber (32). The lower backing layer (32) extends beyond the upper fabric layer to form a border strip (33) at first and second opposite edges (43,44) of the mat. The lower backing layer (32) ends flush with the upper fabric layer at third and fourth opposite edges (41,42) of the mat. Each of the third and fourth edges is provided with a moulded strip (15) of synthetic or natural rubber attached to the lower backing layer (32) to form a border strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Milliken & Company
    Inventor: Peter C. Brazier
  • Patent number: 6656562
    Abstract: A slip resistant floor mat composed of one or more layers of material the bottom layer of which incorporates a plurality of recessions with inset suction cups in the bottom surface of the bottom layer that comes into contact with the intended surface, such as a floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Millennium Mat Co., LLC
    Inventors: Ian S. Malpass, Jeffrey L. Cofer
  • Patent number: 6647570
    Abstract: A self-storing article of bedding is constructed with a pair of pocket panels that overlie a limited surface area on the top of a cover, thereby defining a pocket region of the cover and a larger peripheral region extending beyond the pocket region. The pocket panels reside atop overlapping portions of the pocket region of the cover and have boundary edges that are sewn to the cover, thereby defining the perimeter of the pocket region. Linear, free, overlapping edges of the pocket panels extend between their respective boundary edges. Mutually engageable, releaseable fasteners are provided on the pocket panels in the area of mutual overlap. The pocket panels are reversible in orientation. When the pocket panels are oriented so that their reverse surfaces face each other, the peripheral region of the cover may the folded and stuffed in between the reverse surfaces of the pocket panels and the pocket region of the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Bon S. Ong
  • Patent number: 6640359
    Abstract: A yoga mat that is able to be rolled up tightly and then held closed by two straps being wrapped around the rolled up mat. The straps are part of the piece of mat material from which the mat is manufactured and are made by cutting sections from the end of the mat, thereby leaving one end of each strap as part of the original material. A shoulder strap is attached, between the two straps, so that the mat can be carried over the shoulder with both hands and arms free.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Inventor: Dawnn Alane
  • Publication number: 20030196266
    Abstract: A blanket or mat assembly includes a panel having a foldable frame member that has a folded and an unfolded orientation, and a sheet material substantially covering the frame member when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation, with the sheet material assuming the unfolded orientation of its associated frame member. The assembly further includes a covering having a top portion, a peripheral edge, an opening defined by the peripheral edge, and an interior, with the panel retained inside the interior and accessing the interior of the covering via the opening. The covering assumes the configuration of the panel when the panel is retained inside the interior of the covering. The covering and the panel can be twisted and folded to the folded orientation of the frame member to reduce the overall size of the covering and the panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Publication date: October 23, 2003
    Applicant: Patent Category Corporation
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 6634040
    Abstract: A collapsible apparatus includes a frame member being formed from a flexible twistable material, a first membrane and a second membrane, and a cushion. The second membrane is removably attachable to the first membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: Gray Matter Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Brian E. Le Gette, James Ashley Waring
  • Patent number: 6634041
    Abstract: A towel to tote bag convertible article is disclosed that comprises a towel, preferably a sports towel, having a first end region, a second end region and an intermediate region between the first and second end regions. A pocket provided at and across the first end region, has an opening facing the second end region and is sized to receive and contain the second end region and the intermediate region, the pocket being configured for being turned inside out to form a tote bag containing the second end region and the intermediate region. A zipper is provided for enabling the closing of the pocket opening before and after the pocket is turned inside out. A decorative or waterproof lining may be attached to the pocket to form the outside of the tote bag when the pocket is turned inside out. A tote bag carrying strap is installed inside the pocket. A method of making the convertible article is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Inventors: Randy Higashi, Peter Algarin
  • Patent number: 6631527
    Abstract: A kit of various beach products consisting of a ground covering such as a blanket, spread, mat or towel and the like with a plurality of loops or buttonholes at multiple locations on the top and bottom of the hem which can be optionally rolled into a sheath for storage and transport of ground anchors; a plurality of direct attachment ground anchor pins or tethered ground anchor assemblies which are used to secure the covering to the ground or sand; which tethered ground anchors also incorporate a capped cup holder, a flag or a fastener. A compact kit of such products are useful for the convenience, enjoyment and safety of a person at the beach, pool or patio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Inventor: Michael A. Hyduk
  • Patent number: 6618883
    Abstract: A mattress support device for a sofa sleeper for protecting an individual from the support bars beneath the mattress in a sofa sleeper. The mattress support device for a sofa sleeper includes a first section, a second section pivotally attached to the first section and a third section pivotally attached to the second section. The second section and the third section are pivotally attached to one another by a first hinge channel extending into an upper surface between thereof. The first section and second section are pivotally attached to one another by a second hinge channel extending into a lower surface between thereof. The first section, second section and third section are preferably comprised of a solid sheet structure with the channels formed or created within to create hinges within.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Inventor: Clair A. Angland
  • Publication number: 20030135925
    Abstract: A towel to tote bag convertible article is disclosed that comprises a towel, preferably a sports towel, having a first end region, a second end region and an intermediate region between the first and second end regions. A pocket provided at and across the first end region, has an opening facing the second end region and is sized to receive and contain the second end region and the intermediate region, the pocket being configured for being turned inside out to form a tote bag containing the second end region and the intermediate region. A zipper is provided for enabling the closing of the pocket opening before and after the pocket is turned inside out. A decorative or waterproof lining may be attached to the pocket to form the outside of the tote bag when the pocket is turned inside out. A tote bag carrying strap is installed inside the pocket. A method of making the convertible article is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: Randy Higashi, Peter Algarin
  • Patent number: 6589631
    Abstract: A flashless floor mat or product and method are provided. At least one embodiment of this invention relates to a flashless cushioned dust control mat article wherein the mat comprises at least two distinct layers of rubber, one comprising foam rubber, the other comprising solid rubber. The solid rubber layer is present over the foam rubber layer on the side of the mat in which at least one integrated rubber protrusion is present to provide cushioning characteristics. The solid rubber layer acts as a cap or barrier for the foam rubber layer, particularly over the integrated protrusion or protrusions, in order to provide a mat which is resilient, will not easily degrade in its modulus strength after appreciable use and/or washing within industrial cleaning processes, and will not exhibit appreciable cracking or breaking, particularly within the integrated protrusion(s), after standard use for pedestrian traffic. A method of producing such an inventive cushioned floor mat article is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Milliken & Company
    Inventors: Akihito Suzuki, Robert C. Kerr, Amy K. Streeton
  • Patent number: 6588036
    Abstract: A bed roll combination, particularly for children, is shown to include a mattress, with a mattress cover sheet and a top sheet, if necessary, as well as a blanket. The blanket is also used as the carrying bag for the combination, with rings or the like, for attaching a carrying strap. Alternatively, the above combination, for carrying, is placed in a separate carrying bag, also with facility for attaching a carrying strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Inventor: Ora Hort
  • Publication number: 20030115669
    Abstract: A collapsible apparatus is provided that includes a frame configured to form a closed loop, the frame being moveable between a coiled configuration and an uncoiled configuration. A sleeve is configured to receive the frame and to define an opening within at least a portion of the closed loop. An attachment mechanism is coupled substantially about the periphery of the sleeve. A fabric member is removably coupled to the sleeve such that it is easily removed. A method of making mats according to an embodiment of the invention includes cutting fabric members from a first sheet of material, cutting body membranes from a second sheet of material such that the amount of excess material from the second sheet of material between adjacent body membranes is minimized, and attaching one of the body membranes to one of the fabric members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2003
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventors: Brian E. Le Gette, Justin S. Werner, Alan Tipp, Ronald L. Wilson, Matthew Laine
  • Patent number: 6571410
    Abstract: A blanket or mat assembly includes a panel having a foldable frame member that has a folded and an unfolded orientation, and a sheet material substantially covering the frame member when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation, with the sheet material assuming the unfolded orientation of its associated frame member. The assembly further includes a covering having a top portion, a peripheral edge, an opening defined by the peripheral edge, and an interior, with the panel retained inside the interior and accessing the interior of the covering via the opening. The covering assumes the configuration of the panel when the panel is retained inside the interior of the covering. The covering and the panel can be twisted and folded to the folded orientation of the frame member to reduce the overall size of the covering and the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 6543072
    Abstract: A knapsack-type sleeping bag includes a knapsack portion and a sleeping-bag portion having an edge integrally connected to a lining of the knapsack portion. The knapsack portion is provided with an opening openably closed with a zipper. The sleeping-bag portion, when it is not in use, is compressible and foldable into a compact body for receiving in the knapsack portion via the opening. To use the sleeping-bag portion, simply unzip the opening and pull the sleeping-bag portion out of the knapsack portion via the opening. The sleeping-bag portion pulled out of the knapsack portion can be unzipped and turned open to provide an expanded pad. A waterproof and/or insulating fabric can be detachably attached to a top of the turned open sleeping bag to protect the latter from getting dirt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Inventor: Amy Hsu
  • Patent number: 6519793
    Abstract: A collapsible apparatus is provided that includes a frame configured to form a closed loop, the frame being moveable between a coiled configuration and an uncoiled configuration. A sleeve is configured to receive the frame and to define an opening within at least a portion of the closed loop. An attachment mechanism is coupled substantially about the periphery of the sleeve. A fabric member is removably coupled to the sleeve such that it is easily removed. A method of making mats according to an embodiment of the invention includes cutting fabric members from a first sheet of material, cutting body membranes from a second sheet of material such that the amount of excess material from the second sheet of material between adjacent body membranes is minimized, and attaching one of the body membranes to one of the fabric members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: Gray Matter Holdings LLC
    Inventors: Brian E. Le Gette, Justin S. Werner, Alan Tipp, Ronald L. Wilson, II, Matthew Laine
  • Publication number: 20030019034
    Abstract: A kit of various beach products consisting of a ground covering such as a blanket, spread, mat or towel and the like with a plurality of loops or buttonholes at multiple locations on the top and bottom of the hem which can be optionally rolled into a sheath for storage and transport of ground anchors; a plurality of direct attachment ground anchor pins or tethered ground anchor assemblies which are used to secure the covering to the ground or sand; which tethered ground anchors also incorporate a capped cup holder, a flag or a fastener. A compact kit of such products are useful for the convenience, enjoyment and safety of a person at the beach, pool or patio.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventor: Michael A. Hyduk
  • Patent number: 6478038
    Abstract: A screen includes a collapsible frame member having an arcuate member, and a strut member extending from the arcuate member such that a substantially three legged structure is formed. A covering extends between opposite sides of the arcuate member around the strut member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: Gray Matter Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Brian Edward Le Gette, Justin Saul Werner
  • Publication number: 20020157183
    Abstract: A blanket or mat assembly includes a panel having a foldable frame member that has a folded and an unfolded orientation, and a sheet material substantially covering the frame member when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation, with the sheet material assuming the unfolded orientation of its associated frame member. The assembly further includes a covering having a top portion, a peripheral edge, an opening defined by the peripheral edge, and an interior, with the panel retained inside the interior and accessing the interior of the covering via the opening. The covering assumes the configuration of the panel when the panel is retained inside the interior of the covering. The covering and the panel can be twisted and folded to the folded orientation of the frame member to reduce the overall size of the covering and the panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Applicant: Patent Category Corporation
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Publication number: 20020108175
    Abstract: A collapsible apparatus includes a frame member being formed from a flexible twistable material, a first membrane and a second membrane, and a cushion. The second membrane is removably attachable to the first membrane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2002
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Inventors: Brian E. Le Gette, Tai Hoon Kim Matlin, James Ashley Waring, Ronald L. Wilson
  • Patent number: 6420015
    Abstract: This invention relates to a cushioned dust control mat or article wherein the mat comprises at least two distinct layers of rubber, one comprising foam rubber, the other comprising solid rubber and has a plurality of star-shaped protrusions in the upper surface thereof. Also, the surface of the mat between the protrusions is ribbed or recessed. The solid rubber layer is present over the foam rubber layer on the top side of the mat in which the plurality of star shaped rubber protrusions are present to provide cushioning characteristics. The solid rubber layer acts as a cap or barrier for the foam rubber layer, particularly over the star shaped protrusions, in order to provide a mat which is resilient, will not easily degrade in its modulus strength after appreciable use and/or washing within industrial cleaning processes, and will not exhibit appreciable cracking or breaking, particularly within the star-shaped protrusions, after standard use for pedestrian traffic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Assignees: Milliken & Company, Duskin Company Limited
    Inventors: Thomas D. Nord, Seiin Kobayashi, Yuji Nagahama
  • Publication number: 20020084197
    Abstract: A combination beach bag and blanket wherein the blanket is connected to a wall of the beach bag such that it may be folded and carried by the bag. The blanket has means for securing a towel thereto. The bag may be easily packed and transported.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2001
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Inventor: Nicole Carbonneau
  • Patent number: 6408462
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a multipurpose device that can be alternately configured to form a blanket, a cushion, a hooded poncho, a hooded poncho with a fastening shawl, and a tote bag. The multipurpose device includes a pliable sheet that can be configured for use as a blanket. The pliable sheet is lengthwise dividable into three sections, a first one-third section, a second one-third section having a middle and a third one-third section. The multipurpose device also contains a first attachment. The first attachment includes at least a bi-layer of material that form a first and second pocket and is attached to the pliable sheet near a first edge of the second one third section. The pliable sheet can be folded, preferably with the assistance of specifically placed securing devices, into the second pocket to form the cushion configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Inventor: Amanda Moore
  • Patent number: 6408461
    Abstract: A blanket or mat assembly includes a panel having a foldable frame member that has a folded and an unfolded orientation, and a sheet material substantially covering the frame member when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation, with the sheet material assuming the unfolded orientation of its associated frame member. The assembly further includes a covering having a top portion, a peripheral edge, an opening defined by the peripheral edge, and an interior, with the panel retained inside the interior and accessing the interior of the covering via the opening. The covering assumes the configuration of the panel when the panel is retained inside the interior of the covering. The covering and the panel can be twisted and folded to the folded orientation of the frame member to reduce the overall size of the covering and the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 6393638
    Abstract: A blanket is disclosed including a soft woven fabric with a waterproof backing layer which can be folded, rolled and/or stuffed into an attached water-resistant storage bag. In accordance with the preferred embodiment, the blanket can be constructed of two rectangular layers: the first a soft woven natural or synthetic textile and, the second, a waterproof or water-resistant woven natural or synthetic textile. The two layers are joined by means of sewing or heat welding along the edges and several linear seams or heat welds along the longitudinal and/or transverse axis to indicate suggested folding patterns and to keep the layers co-planar when cleaned in a washing machine/dryer or by other methods. The edges of the blanket are finished by means of a seam, such as a French seam, or an additional binding element of similar material to the waterproof layer. The edges of the blanket are radiused to allow for the easy manufacture should a binding element be employed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventor: Ian Coats MacColl
  • Patent number: 6393637
    Abstract: A multipurpose article can provide a sleeping bag and personal cover. The article includes a planar flexible body having a peripheral fastener arranged to hold the flexible body in a folded condition to form a sleeping bag. The flexible body has an opening sized to permit passage of a person's head through the flexible body, so the flexible body can be worn on the person's shoulders. The flexible body also has a pouch arranged to be inverted in order to store the flexible body in a gathered condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventor: Kathryn Hoffman
  • Patent number: 6357388
    Abstract: A cat litter mat having flexible, paw-engaging projections formed of thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer, preferably a blend of such elastomer with low density polyethylene.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignee: Solutia Inc.
    Inventors: James S. Holtrop, Carey D. Widder
  • Patent number: 6343391
    Abstract: A towel-mat includes a frame member being formed from a flexible twistable material, a first membrane and a second membrane. The first membrane has a perimeter portion to which a frame member is attached. The second membrane has a perimeter portion. The second membrane is removably attachable to the first membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2002
    Assignee: Gray Matter Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Brian E. Le Gette, James Ashley Waring
  • Publication number: 20010044962
    Abstract: A blanket or mat assembly includes a panel having a foldable frame member that has a folded and an unfolded orientation, and a sheet material substantially covering the frame member when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation, with the sheet material assuming the unfolded orientation of its associated frame member. The assembly further includes a covering having a top portion, a peripheral edge, an opening defined by the peripheral edge, and an interior, with the panel retained inside the interior and accessing the interior of the covering via the opening. The covering assumes the configuration of the panel when the panel is retained inside the interior of the covering. The covering and the panel can be twisted and folded to the folded orientation of the frame member to reduce the overall size of the covering and the panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2000
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 6294240
    Abstract: A protective cover for a motor vehicle conventional floor mat comprising a removable fabric protectively enclosing the top side of the mat. An elastic strip integral with the inner rim of the cover removably engages the cover to the underside of the floor mat. The conventional floor mat has a mat irregular peripheral edge and the cover edge is custom fitted to the mat irregular peripheral edge. A cover shape-retaining element integral with the cover side edge keeps the conforming relationship of the cover side edge with the irregular peripheral edge of the floor mat. An elastic strip unitary with the cover inner rim allows the cover to be disengaged from the floor mat by stretching the elastic strip to a biased mode. The cover is preferably made of a polyester pile fabric that generally matches the fabric used in motor vehicles. A waterproof layer is preferably attached to the interior surface of the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Inventor: Joseph J. Brunetto
  • Publication number: 20010014985
    Abstract: An eight-sided beach blanket having integral pockets is disclosed herein. The beach blanket has a main body section, elongated edges, top and bottom edges, and slanted edges. The beach blanket has pockets located at its slanted edges. The pockets may be sealed by a zipper or VELCRO® tape. The pockets may be formed by folding the comers of the beach blanket inward and sewing the perimeter of the corners to the surface of the main body section of the beach blanket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 1999
    Publication date: August 23, 2001
    Inventor: ANDREW P. BARTOSIK
  • Patent number: 6276828
    Abstract: The invention relates to a beach towel, which converts to a compact tote bag incorporating externally accessible pockets for carrying various accessories. The beach towel is formed from a large rectangular section of flexible, absorbent fabric and a second smaller, multi-paneled rectangular towel consisting mostly of the same or similar fabric as the large towel. The small towel overlies the upper one-quarter section of the large towel and the two are stitched together along the center and periphery of the small towel. Pockets with zippered closures are provided on the outside face of the small towel, and its center section is made from a flexible perforated screen or mesh fabric to facilitates escape of dirt and sand particles entrapped within the pockets. The towel converts to the tote bag configuration by folding it twice along the transverse axis and once along the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Inventors: Tamara D. Otley, Kristin K. Varadi-Saul
  • Patent number: 6260219
    Abstract: An eight-sided beach blanket having integral pockets is disclosed herein. The beach blanket has a main body section, elongated edges, top and bottom edges, and slanted edges. The beach blanket has pockets located at its slanted edges. The pockets may be sealed by a zipper or VELCRO® tape. The pockets may be formed by folding the corners of the beach blanket inward and sewing the perimeter of the corners to the surface of the main body section of the beach blanket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Inventor: Andrew P. Bartosik
  • Patent number: 6243892
    Abstract: A sleeping apparatus includes a sleeping bag and a pad. The sleeping bag has front and back sides and is selectively convertible between an unfolded sleeping configuration and a folded backpack configuration. The pad is operatively attached to the back side of the sleeping bag and is also selectively convertible between an unfolded sleeping configuration and a folded backpack configuration. The pad serves as padding for the sleeping bag when both are in the sleeping configuration. The pad also serves as a backpack shell for holding the sleeping bag and any other contents within when both are in the backpack configuration. Thus, the pad provides structural strength to the backpack. To convert the sleeping apparatus from the sleeping configuration to the backpack configuration, the sleeping bag is folded into the backpack configuration. Next, the pad is folded into the backpack configuration around the folded sleeping bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Inventor: Bruce G. Kelling
  • Patent number: 6226813
    Abstract: A system for anchoring an outer periphery of a beach blanket to the ground or sand is disclosed. The blanket is anchored by a plurality of stakes which are manually insertable into the ground. A tether fastens the stake to the outer periphery of the blanket so that the stakes are not separated from the blanket when not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventors: Everett R. Wilburn, Carolyn A. Wilburn, Anna Josette McLennan
  • Patent number: 6202235
    Abstract: A sitting pad for seating thereupon a plurality of users, such as the players of a sports team, in an organized manner. The sitting pad includes a flexible pad with upper and lower faces, a pair of end edges, and a pair of side edges extending between the end edges of the pad. The pad has a plurality of spaced apart pockets on the upper face of the pad. Each of the pockets comprising a translucent material. In each pocket is a name card with indicia denoting which user is to sit on the pad adjacent that particular pocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Inventor: Brenda C. Salhanick