Abstract: Various sheet configurations that improve mattress fit are described. For example, sheets having elastic corners, gripping mechanisms, and faceted side panels are provided that enhance sheet-to-mattress fit. The features employed by some or all of the versions of the sheet described herein enhance interconnection of the sheet onto the mattress, wherein sheets securely interconnect to mattresses having rounded corners or maintain fit with mattresses that have portions that selectively move.

Abstract: A system and method of changing a sheet for a mattress of a bed is provided. More specifically, a bedding system includes a retention element sized to be retained on the mattress. A first bedding element is selectively interconnected to the retention system. Optionally, a second bedding element may be interconnected to the first bedding element. In one embodiment, at least one two-part closure interconnects the first bedding element to the retention element. In another embodiment, buttons interconnect the second bedding element to the first bedding element. In yet another embodiment, at least one two-part closure interconnects the second bedding element to the first bedding element. The two-part closure may be a zipper, a plurality of snaps, and a hook and loop system. In one embodiment, the retention element is removably interconnected to the mattress by at least one fastener or closure.

Abstract: A mattress protector completely encloses a mattress. The top wall is removable from the side walls by operating a zipper. The zipper includes protective features designed to prevent bed bugs from leaving the interior of the mattress protector via the zipper slide. When the top wall is removed from the side walls, the present invention includes supports for the side walls so that when the top wall is removed, the side walls remain erect so that the top wall can easily be reattached by placing the top wall over the top surface of the mattress and then operating the zipper around the side walls to reattach the top wall. A number of different embodiments of structures designed to hold the side walls upright when the top wall is removed are disclosed.

Abstract: A bedding system for a mattress includes a mattress cover. The mattress cover has an exterior surface, an interior compartment and an opening sized and shaped to allow insertion of the mattress into the cover. The opening is preferably reclosable. The cover is sized and shaped to receive the mattress inside it such that when the covering material snugly envelopes the mattress, it follows the contours of the sides and panels of the mattress. The mattress cover includes a plurality of cover fasteners disposed along a first side portion, a second side portion, a head portion and a foot portion. The system includes a first sheet with a plurality of sheet fasteners that engage the plurality of cover fasteners. When the sheet is overlaid onto the mattress cover and each of the sheet fasteners engages one of the plurality of cover fasteners, the edges and panels of the sheet aligns with the panels of the mattress.

Abstract: A cord with an outer fabric covering over a sheath and draw string is used to secure a sheet to a bed. The cord has a series of clips attached there-to by a second cord or by direct attachment. The clips are in turn removably attachable to edges of a sheet. One then tightens the draw string, reducing the length of the cord, and continues to do so until the sheet is pulled to a bottom side of the mattress. In this manner, the sheet ends are beneath the mattress and tightened thereto by the cord. The cord further snaps to itself, in embodiments of the disclosed technology, to form a closed loop around the bed.

Abstract: A cord with an outer fabric covering over a sheath and draw string is used to secure a sheet to a bed. The cord has a series of clips attached there-to by a second cord or by direct attachment. The clips are in turn removably attachable to edges of a sheet. One then tightens the draw string, reducing the length of the cord, and continues to do so until the sheet is pulled to a bottom side of the mattress. In this manner, the sheet ends are beneath the mattress and tightened thereto by the cord. The cord further snaps to itself, in embodiments of the disclosed technology, to form a closed loop around the bed.

Abstract: This invention is a fitted bed sheet that converts to a completely flat bed sheet by releasing the elastic and zippers placed on each corner. This allows this bed sheet to be easily folded like a flat sheet and easy to store. This bed sheet is designed to be reversible and convertible—one side creates a more traditional look and the other has a more ornamental design.

Abstract: Devices, apparatus, systems and methods for keeping bottom sheets kept in place about mattresses with a cross pattern of elastic bands placed under a mattress having ends with clips. The clips can clamp to outer edges of the bottom sheet, with the elastic bands also able to additionally keep bottom edges of top sheets and/or bottom edges of blankets in place. The clip ends can be selected from at least one of alligator clips, suspender clips, clamps, and the like.

Abstract: A bed sheet system for application to a mattress having rounded corners, a nominal mattress width between opposite sides of mattress, a nominal mattress length between opposite ends of the mattress, and a nominal mattress height. The bed sheet system includes a bottom flat fitted sheet and standard dimension top unfitted sheet. The unfitted top sheet may be attached by fastening along the foot-hem to the bottom sheet, or not attached with placement head-mark and size-mark, and corners marks to guide properly centered position with proper amount overhang on the sides and ends.

Abstract: A cover 10 for keeping an air assisted patient transfer mattress sanitary is disclosed. The cover includes generally a top panel 12 connected to a bottom panel 14. The cover 10 includes at least one opening 24 to allow a mattress, such as an air assisted patient transfer mattress to be inserted and removed. The bottom panel 14 includes air passing means to pass air through from an air assisted patient transfer mattress onto a supporting surface.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a bed covering. In some embodiments, a bed covering according to the present disclosure can include a fitted base configured to at least partially enclose a mattress, a comforter portion including an end connected to the fitted base and sides removably connectable to sides of the fitted base, and extendable side flaps connected to the sides of the comforter portion. Additional and alternative embodiments of the bed covering are disclosed herein and/or will be evident from the principles described herein.

Abstract: Bedding material including a first fabric section manufactured from performance fabric and having a first and second side; and, a second fabric section attached to the first side of the first fabric section. Additionally, a third fabric section can be attached to the second side of the first fabric section. The first fabric section can be attached to the second fabric section through a flatlock stitch. The first fabric section can include a first zone and a second zone wherein the first zone contains different performance properties from the second zone and the first zone can have thermal or moisture wicking properties.

Abstract: A mattress retention system for adjustable beds employs a tension web attached to a top surface of an element of an articulating support structure. The tension web is inset from a longitudinal edge and lateral edges of the articulating support structure element and incorporates a first fastener moiety on an extending edge. A mating element is attached to the bottom surface of a mattress adjacent an edge to be restrained. The mating element incorporates a second fastener moiety for operable connection to the first fastener moiety and includes a web section having a first edge attached to the bottom surface of the mattress and a second edge carrying the second fastener moiety for flexibility in attaching the fastener moieties.

Abstract: Disclosed is a bed clothing system that has a bottom sheet and top sheet attached together at the corners of the foot end of the bed clothing system. At the foot end of the bed clothing system on the corners, where the top and bottom sheets are attached, a stretchable piece of material is disposed in a vertical direction so that the bed sheet system is able to accommodate to any size and thickness of a mattress, while also remaining securely fixed on a mattress.

Abstract: A phone support device holds and supports a phone on or adjacent to a bed. The device includes a tray having a panel and a perimeter wall coupled to and extending upwardly from a perimeter edge of the panel defining a receptacle such that the tray is configured for receiving a phone in the tray. A knob is coupled to and extends from a bottom surface of the panel. A clip having a pair of spaced arms selectively engageable to the knob wherein the clip is secures the tray to a sheet by positioning the sheet between the knob and the clip when the clip is engaged to the knob.

Abstract: A multi-purpose adjustable retaining device is disclosed. In one embodiment, a cord having two ends is provided that is composed of an elastomeric material configured to deform elastically upon elongation. Each of ends of the cord are threaded through a cord stop, which permits the length of each end to be adjusted, with any spare cord forming a loop extending from a side of the cord stop opposite the two ends. Suspension clips are respectively slidably connected to each end of the cord in order to grip a material.

Abstract: A multipurpose blanket system includes blanket material and a first pair of fasteners configured to fasten to one another. The blanket may be constructed using sun protective, breathable material. A first fastener of the first pair is positioned along a first direction relative to a second fastener of the first pair. A second pair of fasteners may be configured to fasten to one another. A third fastener of the second pair is positioned along a second direction relative to a fourth fastener of the second pair. The first direction may form an acute angle with respect to the second direction. A third pair of fasteners may be configured to fasten to one another. A fifth fastener of the third pair is positioned along a third direction relative to a sixth fastener of the third pair, and the third direction may be substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

Abstract: A foldable fitted sheet is provided. The fitted sheet may be a substantially rectangular woven fabric with four corner portions. The corner portions may each include cut out portions forming a pair of inner edges and a pair of outer edges. The inner edges may be releasably attachable to one another. Therefore, the sheet may be placed on top of mattress and the inner edges may be connected to secure to the mattress. When the inner edges are detached, the sheet may lay flat and may be easily folded.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide covers for bed components, such as mattresses and/or box-springs, which limit bed bug access to the bed component. According to one embodiment, a cover for a bed component may include an opening that provides access to an interior of the cover and through which a bed component (e.g., a mattress or box-spring) may be inserted, a zipper coupled along the opening, a zipper mechanism slidable along the zipper to couple opposing teeth of the zipper to allow the opening to be zipped closed to enclose the bed component within the cover, a first flap foldable and securable over a distal end of the zipper, a second flap foldable and securable over the first flap, and a barrier material disposed between the second flap and the zipper for applying pressure to the zipper to minimize a gap between the zipper and the first flap.

Abstract: A bed accessory, for use with a bed having a mattress and a base for the mattress, includes a bed cover retainer having a first portion adapted to fit between the mattress and the base for the mattress. The first portion defines a wedge that is configured to produce a separation force between the mattress and base to hold the retainer in position. The first portion may further define a bed-cover-engaging member, such as a high-friction surface, to hold the bed cover in position. A sleeper attendant may be supported at a second portion. The sleeper attendant is adapted to support an object in a manner that the object is accessible to a sleeper on the bed.

Abstract: An expandable mattress cover comprises a top sheet, a bottom sheet and a side wall joining the top sheet and the bottom sheet. A plurality of edges of the side wall is stitched to the top sheet and the bottom sheet to form a compartment. An expandable means having a hook is attached to the side wall. An opening is provided on the side wall for inserting a mattress into the compartment. The expandable means may be adjusted to fit mattresses of different thicknesses inside the expandable mattress cover. A fastening means with a hook is adjusted to open the opening before inserting a mattress into the compartment. The mattress is secured in position by adjusting the fastening means to a closed position. The hook is used to clip the expandable means and the fastening means onto the side wall.

Abstract: The present inventors disclose a bed comprising a bed insert and a base. An insert comprises one or more openable loops which can receive medical tubing or other types of medical lines. In some configurations, the one or more openable loops can be reversibly attached to the insert. An insert can be attached to the base by a reversible attachment such as Velcro. A patient, along with an insert, can be lifted from the base. A patient who has medical lines which extend through the loops can be lifted with the insert from the base without disrupting connections between the medical lines and the patient.

Abstract: The disclosure is directed to a bedding cover that allows for the easy and rapid insertion of a blanket or duvet and an easy, rapid method of making a bed using such a bedding cover. The bedding cover is durable with a type of closure that does not reduce the longevity of or damage the bedding cover despite multiple launderings. A kit containing a container and the disclosed improved bedding cover; and optionally, at least one of: a mattress sheet or bottom sheet; a pillow case; a dust ruffle; and a blanket or a duvet.

Abstract: A sheet that includes an upper portion, a lower portion, four side portions and at least one strap is disclosed. The four side portions correspond to a first pair of sides and a second pair of sides. The first pair of sides corresponds to a top side and a bottom side opposite of each other. The second pair of sides corresponds to a left side and a right side opposite of each other. The upper portion is opposite the lower portion. The lower portion has an opening. At least one strap is attached to a point in the lower portion and an opposite point in the lower portion and extends across the opening in lower portion. At least one strap has a single indicator. The indicator indicates the position and/or size of the sheet.

Abstract: A fitted sheet and integrated holding apparatus includes a fabric sheet having a top panel, a pair of opposed side panels, and a pair of opposed end panels extending therebetween. The fabric may be fitted to the mattress and configured to fold flat when removed therefrom. Connection of respective side panels and respective end panels form four corner sections each having a corner edge. Each corner section includes a cord channel situated along a respective corner edge and defining opposed open ends and an interior space extending between the open ends. The holding apparatus includes an elastic cord having a flexible configuration and opposed cord ends, the cord extending through the interior space of the cord channel and respective cord ends extending outwardly through respective open ends. A pair of cord fasteners is attached to respective cord ends and, when coupled together, tightens a respective corner section to the mattress.

Abstract: A multi-purpose adjustable retaining device is disclosed. In one embodiment, a cord having two ends is provided that is composed of an elastomeric material configured to deform elastically upon elongation. Each of ends of the cord are threaded through a cord stop, which permits the length of each end to be adjusted, with any spare cord forming a loop extending from a side of the cord stop opposite the two ends. Suspension clips are respectively slidably connected to each end of the cord in order to grip a material.

Abstract: The invention is a bedding apparatus, to be used with a conventional mattress. The bedding's bottom layer is fitted, so as to fit snugly around a mattress. The bottom layer is connected to the top layer by an attachment device, preferably two zippers. The top layer extends over three edges of the bottom layer, so as to appear aesthetically pleasing and provide comfort to the user. The zippers allow a user to easily and quickly make up the bed after sleeping in the bedding. It also functions to keep the top layer from falling off of the bed while sleeping and facilitates the user in weekly changing of the bed.

Abstract: A mattress cover includes a securing belt about its skirt to aid in engaging and fixing the skirt to a mattress, thereby minimizing the tendency of a skirt to migrate upward on the mattress during use. The belt may be attached to the skirt by means of a sleeve extending the length of the skirt, lacing, belt loop structures, an integrated channel, Velcro® or similar devices. The belt may be adjusted by means of a buckle, a knot or other similar devices.

Abstract: Disclosed is a dual-use blanket for covering an infant car seat carrier, and for use as a conventional infant blanket. The device comprises a blanket having a built-in aperture that extends over the handle on an infant carrier, a flap being attached to the blanket on a first side, and removably attached on a second side by a fastener, and a drawstring for attaching the blanket to the infant carrier. When the carrier handle is extended, the blanket can be placed thereover, allowing the handle to extend through the aperture. This provides a cover for the carrier that prevents the infant or child contained therein from being exposed to the elements. The blanket can be removed from the carrier and used as a conventional blanket. In this configuration, the flap is closed with the fastener, which prevents exposure to the elements through the aperture.

Abstract: An expandable mattress cover comprises a top sheet, a bottom sheet and a sidewall joining the top sheet and the bottom sheet. A plurality of edges of the sidewall is stitched to the top sheet and the bottom sheet to form a compartment. An expandable means having a hook is attached to the sidewall. An opening is provided on the sidewall for inserting a mattress into the compartment. The expandable means may be adjusted to fit mattresses of different thicknesses inside the expandable mattress cover. A fastening means with a hook is adjusted to open the opening before inserting a mattress into the compartment. The mattress is secured in position by adjusting the fastening means to a closed position. The hook is used to clip the expandable means and the fastening means onto the sidewall.

Abstract: A bed covering system includes a top cover having a top surface, a bottom surface, right, left, top and bottom edges, and at least one fold on at least part of the bottom surface; a bottom cover having a top surface, a bottom surface, right, left, top and bottom edges, and at least one fold on at least part of the top surface; and a concealed fastening means having a first fastener part and a second fastener part, wherein the first and second fastener parts are attached to and enclosed in the at least one fold of the top and bottom covers, respectively. The top and bottom covers are detachably connected by the first and second fastener parts. A bed covering system also includes a plurality of covers and a plurality of fastening means. Teaching methods using the bed covering systems are included.

Abstract: A fitted covering for a mattress includes a body, a peripheral elastic band, and an anchor band. The body includes an upper panel and a side skirt extending outwardly away from the upper panel. The upper panel and the side skirt are coupled to one another along a seam extending substantially entirely around an outer periphery of the upper panel. The upper panel defines at least one corner. The peripheral elastic band is coupled with and extends around the side skirt opposite the upper panel. The anchor band is elongated and defines a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The first end and the second end are positioned on opposite sides of the at least one corner such that the anchor band extends diagonally across the at least one corner, and each of the first end and the second end is secured within the seam.

Abstract: This invention is a modular blanket system for double beds essentially built like a ring binder where the rings, called straps, are made of a flexible material and are closed by means of detachable fasteners such as hook-and-loop, snaps or buttons. The use of straps as a binding means allows blanket leaves to be added, subtracted or paged from one side to the other depending on the sleepers' need for warmth or decorative taste.

Abstract: The embodiments described herein generally relate to a system and method for joining a detachable fabric sheet to a cover through the use of one or more corresponding fastening or temporary joining mechanisms located on the cover and fabric sheet. In an embodiment, the cover includes one or more mechanisms to align and/or secure a filling material to the cover, as well as one or more fastening or temporary joining mechanisms for attaching the detachable fabric sheet to the cover. Methods and systems are provided for detachably joining the fabric sheet to the cover, for creating a multi-layer unit of a cover and detachable sheets, as well as for aligning and securing the filler to the cover. A method is also provided for manufacturing the integrated bedding cover system.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cover for a mattress and bed deck. More particularly, the present invention relates to a mattress and bed deck cover for an adjustable bed that reduces the exposure of the mattress and bed deck to unsanitary conditions.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cover for a mattress and bed deck. More particularly, the present invention relates to a mattress and bed deck cover for an adjustable bed that reduces the exposure of the mattress and bed deck to unsanitary conditions.

Abstract: A rapid bed making system and method includes a first sheet for securing to a mattress and a “T” shaped second sheet. Cooperating releasable fasteners are affixed to the top surface of the first sheet and to the bottom surface of a first panel of the second sheet. After the first panel of the second sheet is aligned and pressed together with the top surface of the first sheet, a second confluent panel of the second sheet sized to be the same length as the first panel, and with left and right side mattress overlay extensions, is brought up and over the first panel. The first sheet remains in place. The “T” shaped sheet is removed for washing and subsequent reinstallation. Sheet changing of bunk beds and beds with limited access to one or more sides is simplified especially for the elderly and/or disabled.

Abstract: A fitted bed sheet capable of fitting mattresses of multiple lengths is disclosed. The fitted bed sheet has a first section constructed primarily of non-stretch material and a second section sewn to the foot of the first section that is constructed primarily of non-elastic stretch material. The second section stretches to accommodate mattresses of longer lengths thereby eliminating the need to maintain multiple fitted bed sheets. The present invention increases user comfort, can be processed in commercial laundries, reduces the labor of making the bed, is easier to fold, and has a longer useful life than fitted sheets constructed with elastic stretch material. The fitted bed sheet can be washed, ironed, and folded automatically. The present invention may be used in institutional or private settings.

Abstract: A sheet connecting apparatus having a top and a bottom sheet. The bottom sheet has one or more buttons near at least one end of the bottom sheet. The top sheet has one or more button holes near at least one end of the top sheet. The buttons and the button holes are each positioned on the respective bottom sheet and top sheet for aligning the top sheet on the bottom sheet and for connecting the top sheet to the bottom sheet.

Abstract: Disclosed is an improved bedding system that provides a connection means between a fitted bottom sheet and a flat sheet, whereby neatly making the bed is facilitated with minimal effort. The flat sheet comprises three pleated corner lines that improve properly aligning the flat sheet with the bed, where the vertical portions of the flat sheet fall naturally to the sides of the bed as the flat sheet top region is placed over the mattress upper surface. Along the head region of the flat sheet, a pair of slits along the lateral sides of the sheet allows the upper portion of the flat sheet to be pulled away from the bed pillows while its side panel regions are still connected to the bed. Finally, an embodiment of the connector elements includes a line of sewn connection between the bottom fitted sheet and the top sheet up to the lateral slits.

Abstract: The present invention provides a bed sheet attachment system that allows a user to quickly and easily change bed sheets. In one embodiment, the fitted sheet of a bed comprises an upper surface and at least one attachment member disposed on the upper surface. A quick-change sheet having upper and lower surfaces also is provided, wherein at least one attachment member is disposed on the lower surface of the quick-change sheet. In use, the attachment member of the quick-change sheet is configured to releasably mate with the attachment member of the fitted sheet, thereby facilitating the changing of the quick-change sheet. Further, at least one pocket member may be releasably coupled to the fitted sheet, to thereby providing one or more storage locations in close proximity to the bed.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to bedding, and more particularly to beddings that combines a fitted sheet and top sheet into a single unit and employs a set of straps to secure the same in place on a mattress in order to minimize sheet movement during sleep to maximize sleep comfort and ease the bed-making process.

Abstract: A drawstring secured fitted sheet where the corners are fashioned to avoid binding the string. It has a hem that holds the drawstring that is fabricated separately to allow that the edges of the sheet can be curved. The hem is terminated short of closing to allow a gap for the drawstring to exit. A stiffener is added at the gap to hold it open. There can be a block or pulley added to aid in tightening.

Abstract: An adjustable mattress that incorporates a movement mechanism and support member inside of the foam mattress includes a fabric covering with a fastener member. The fastener member is used to keep a fitted sheet in place over the adjustable mattress when the mattress is adjusted to an inclined configuration. The fastener member is attached to the fabric covering near the lower edge of the adjustable mattress and is adapted to fasten to a corresponding fastener on the fitted sheet. The fastener member can be a toggle that fits through a loop on the fitted sheet. The fitted sheet also has an elastic band that draws the fitted sheet taut around the adjustable mattress. The lower portion of the fabric covering is made of stretchable fabric that stretches between the lower edge of the adjustable mattress and a balancing bar that supports the adjustable mattress when the adjustable mattress is inclined.

Abstract: The comfort quilt and a pillowcase combination has features that permit easy and efficient cleaning thereof. The quilt incorporates a housing or cover member that encapsulates an insert therein. The insert includes plastic sheathing that is stuffed with a soft insulating material. When the quilt is soiled, the insert is easily removed from the cover member so that the cover member can be cleaned (wash and dried). An electronic device (battery operated) is attached to the insert for emitting spiritual music or prayers for comfort. The pillowcase includes a facing member attached thereto. The facing member can be easily removed from the pillowcase.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a disposable sheet with an absorbent pad comprising multiple layers. In particular, the absorbent pad of the present invention maintains skin dryness by absorbing moisture while preventing leakage to the skin or the bed linens, allowing air circulation at the surface of the patient's skin to prevent heat buildup, and is strong enough to allow the patient to be repositioned, even when the pad is wet. In a particular embodiment the first layer is comprised of a fluid-permeable, porous material, the second layer is disposed under the first layer and is comprised of at least one super absorbent material, and a base layer disposed under the second layer.

Abstract: A bed sheet to cover a mattress may include a top sheet to cooperate with the substantially the top surface of the mattress, and a connector sheet to cooperate with the top sheet to stabilize the top sheet with respect to the mattress. The connector sheet and the top sheet may define an aperture to cooperation with a bottom corner of the mattress. The aperture may be substantially a rectangle, and the connector sheet may be substantially T-shaped. The connector sheet may be an inverted T-shaped sheet, and the connector sheet may include a base portion to connect the bottom edge of the top sheet. The connector sheet may include a top portion to connect to a side edge of the top sheet.

Abstract: A method and system for releasably attaching a bedding cover to a bed sheet using fasteners such that the bedding cover and bed sheet do not separate. One or more fasteners may be used to fasten the bedding cover to the bed sheet and the fasteners may be placed in various locations where the bedding cover and bed sheet overlap. The fasteners may include magnets, VELCRO®, buttons, and the like. The bedding cover may be a comforter, blanket, quilt or some other material. In one embodiment, a magnet or a set of magnets may be placed over the bedding cover or over a bed sheet folded over the bedding cover, and another magnet or set of magnets may be placed under the bed sheet in the same area as the first magnet or set of magnets to fasten the bed sheet to the bed cover.

Abstract: A quilt-style sleeping bag including clip, buckles, snaps, hook and loop material, buttons or any other suitable attachment means secured with the bag proximate the left and right longitudinal edges of the bag that are adapted to cooperatively couple with a cord, strap, string, rope or cable (hereafter collectively referred to as “cords”) that extends widthwise across a sleeping pad is described. The clips in conjunction with the complimentary cords permit a user to secure the left and right edges of the bag to the top side of the sleeping pad and furthermore, hold the edges of the bag against the top side of the sleeping pad. Accordingly, the ability of the edges to lift up and permit cold air to enter the interior volume of the bag and the pad combination is minimized, despite normal movements of a user during sleep.

Abstract: An improved encasement for a mattress which thwarts the escapement of bed bugs from a mattress through the encasement and which thwarts the encroachment of beg bugs through the encasement into the mattress. An elongated opening is provided in the encasement which is selectively closed by a zipper associated therewith. The encasement includes a flap secured to the lower side wall portion of a side of the encasement which is positioned inwardly of the zipper for retarding or preventing the escapement of bed bugs through the zipper. Hook and loop fasteners are also provided at the end location for further preventing the escapement of bed bugs from the mattress through the encasement and preventing the encroachment of beg bugs into the mattress through the encasement.