With Substantial Foam Component Patents (Class 5/655.9)
  • Patent number: 8458835
    Abstract: A breast support pillow includes a wedge-shaped rectangular even flat surface pad thicker at a top end with an inclined upper surface and being of sufficient length to support a torso and a head of an individual/woman. The pad has a double cup recess within the upper surface at about mid-point of the length of the pad to receive the different sizes of inserts in order to different breasts' sized of the woman in a comfortable manner therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Inventor: Amy Muratalla
  • Patent number: 8434176
    Abstract: A pillow kit for providing comfort to user featuring a back support pillow system for positioning a user's back in a comfortable position, a C-shaped neck pillow adapted to wrap around a user's neck; and a cylindrical knee pillow adapted to be placed under a user's knees. The back support pillow system features a base pillow with a head indentation, two opposing wings for supporting the user's arms, and a removable lumbar support bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Inventor: Raymond M. Harrison
  • Patent number: 8424137
    Abstract: Ribbed gel devices for cushioning purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Edizone, LLC
    Inventors: Tony M. Pearce, Terry V. Pearce
  • Patent number: 8418297
    Abstract: A support cushion including a top surface, a bottom surface opposite top surface, a layer of flexible foam having plurality of cells defining a reticulated cellular structure, the reticulated cellular structure cells comprising a skeletal plurality of supports through which substantially open cell walls establish fluid communication between interior of the cell and interiors of adjacent cells, the layer of flexible foam having density no less than about 30 kg/m3 and no greater than about 175 kg/m3, and hardness of no less than about 20 N and no greater than about 150 N at 40% indentation force deflection measured at about 22 degrees Celsius, the layer of flexible foam comprising visco-elastic foam having at least one material property responsive to temperature change in range of 10-30° C., and layer of polyurethane foam located beneath layer of flexible foam, the layer of polyurethane foam having hardness of at least about 50 N.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Tempur-Pedic Management, LLC
    Inventors: Tom D. Mikkelsen, Kenneth E. Mitchell
  • Patent number: 8403412
    Abstract: A seating pad assembly is provided for use by travelers to increase the comfort for a seat on a public transportation vehicle or at a public transit terminal. A system and method for ordering the seating pad assembly for a transportation seat includes at least one terminal configured for entering an identifier indicative of a type of transportation seat purchased, e.g., a class of service; a server configured for receiving the identifier, determining dimensions of the seating pad assembly based on the identifier, and generating an order to acquire the determined seating pad assembly; and a communications network for coupling the at least one terminal and the server. The terminal may be configured in the form of a computer, a kiosk or a mobile terminal. The system will allow a purchaser of a transportation seat to either purchase or rent the seating pad assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Nightgear LLC.
    Inventor: Richard M. Leeds
  • Patent number: 8393027
    Abstract: There is provided a spinal support pivot pillow including: (1) a central-cylindrical neck support roll having two ends; and (2) two generally circular head support cushions vertically connected at each of the two ends, the neck support contoured to support a head and a neck in a supine position, and the head support cushions contoured to support the head and the neck in a side posture position. The present invention may also be used with a corresponding pillow case which can be contoured to the pillow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Inventor: Allan Weisberg
  • Patent number: 8382692
    Abstract: A spine and neck support device adapted to support the anatomical structures in the cervical and upper thoracic spine when the user's neck is in flexion. A cushion conforms about the user's anatomical neck structures and rests on the upper chest of the user. The cushion has a chin support area that avoids contacting the user's chin when the user's head is in a neutral position and contacts the user's chin when the user's neck is in flexion. When the user's neck is flexed and the user's chin contacts the chin support area, the cushion unloads and supports the user's neck. At least one and preferably two straps are attached to the cushion and secure it to the user. The top is sloped downwards from back to front to maximize the user's downward field of vision. A groove in the posterior surface of the cushion accommodates the user's trachea/esophagus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventor: John Chao
  • Patent number: 8359689
    Abstract: A mattress constructed with multiple foam layers joined together provides reclining support with pressure redistribution for heavy weight persons, particularly those weighing over 350 pounds. The mattress includes: a core layer having a substantially planar top surface and at least two spaced apart regions in a bottom surface from which foam material has been extracted to leave cavities separated by an interconnected network of foam walls, a top layer of viscoelastic foam with an air permeability above 60 ft3/ft2/min, and a bottom layer of stiffer supporting foam. The open cavities of the core layer are directed away from the body supporting top surface of the mattress and contain one or more gels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: FXI, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen C. Warren, Beat B. Niederoest, Kerry Lynn Covey, Jose D. M. Contreras, Mario F Neto
  • Patent number: 8356373
    Abstract: Embodiments disclosed in the detailed description include a unitary or monolithic composite or hybrid cushioning structure(s) and profile(s) comprised of a cellular thermoplastic foam and a thermoset material. The thermoset material may also be provided as cellular foam as well. In one embodiment disclosed herein, the unitary composite cushioning structure is formed from a cellular thermoplastic foam and a thermoset material. The cellular thermoplastic foam provides support characteristics to the unitary composite cushioning structure. The thermoset material provides a resilient structure with cushioning characteristics to the cushioning structure. A stratum is disposed between at least a portion of the cellular thermoplastic foam and at least a portion of the thermoset material to secure the at least a portion of the thermoset material to the at least a portion of the cellular thermoplastic foam to provide a unitary composite cushioning structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Noel Group LLC
    Inventors: Michael Allman, Bangshu Cao, Andrew Costas Yiannaki, Ivan Sobran, Randal Lee Henderson
  • Patent number: 8353501
    Abstract: A foam spring for use in pillows, cushions, mattresses or the like, the foam spring having a tubular resilient body (2) made of foam and forming an outer wall, with holes (3) extending inwardly from an outside surface (4) to an inside surface (5), those holes (3) being arranged in a staggered symmetry and mainly being diamond shaped, characterized in that the tubular body (2) displays said holes (3) only over a limited part (16) of its surface (4), and that this limited part (16) is regularly alternating with a limited part (18) of the surface (4) that is not provided with said holes (3) and which forms longitudinal reinforcement ribs (7) in the wall of the tubular body (2) of the spring (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Inventor: Willy Poppe
  • Publication number: 20120304389
    Abstract: Multi-purpose furniture that can be re-deployed as play-themed structures useable by children is disclosed. The multi-purpose furniture, in one version, includes slab-like cushion elements (e.g., foam cushions). An ornamental graphic having the appearance of vertical wooden logs typical of a fort, large stones typical of a castle wall, or some other graphic is disposed directly on the surface of the foam (if foam is used), or a material encasing the foam (e.g., a woven or nonwoven fabric). These cushion elements may then be connected with one another to assume different configurations, e.g., a comfortable chair, or a structure having the appearance of a fort or other themed context.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Inventors: Michael Eugene Ranck, Timothy Allan Harikkala
  • Patent number: 8291534
    Abstract: An axillary support device is provided for decompressing the axilla (armpit) and associated structures in a sidelying position. A thoracic cushion provides firm axillary support to a user at the level of the mid to upper thorax, distal to the axilla. A head cushion connected to the thoracic cushion supports the user's head and may maintain a neutral cervical spine alignment position. A connector connecting the cushions creates a valley to receive an upper arm of the user. A back support may be used to maintain the sidelying position. An inflatable bladder may be used to adjust the axillary support device in order to appropriately relieve pressure on the user's axilla and associated structures. With the axillary support device, the upper arm of the user is relatively free to extend perpendicularly in front of the body in the sidelying position with reduced stress on the lateral shoulder and axilla.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Axillan Corporation
    Inventor: James Karlson
  • Patent number: 8291535
    Abstract: A body support apparatus, system, and method of reducing pressure on the pelvic structure of a non-ambulatory or semi-ambulatory individual. According to the invention, a body support apparatus provides pressure relief and a level base of pelvic support for wheelchair users. The body support apparatus provides enhanced pressure relief via layers of tissue density-specific pressure relieving layers of foam. In addition, the apparatus provides further pressure relief via gender specific pressure relief zones. The body support apparatus can be used in combination with a wheelchair to provide pressure relief and a pelvic postural support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Kemper Support Surfaces, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher E. Kemper
  • Patent number: 8291531
    Abstract: A rectangular sleeping pad includes a plurality of projections on one end; a plurality of through holes each correspondingly adjacent to the projection; a plurality of tongues each correspondingly distal the through hole; and a plurality of units each having a first slot at one side of the tongue and a second slot at the other side of the tongue, whereby partially pulling out the tongues will leave a plurality of spaces, and bending one end of the sleeping pad to insert the projections into the spaces, and inserting the tongues through the through holes will temporarily form a pillow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Inventor: Jen-Tsu Kuo
  • Patent number: 8281434
    Abstract: A localized patient support comprises a base, an annular ring supported above the base and defining a cavity, and a gel pad having a plurality of sections located in the cavity. In some embodiments, the localized patient support includes a plurality of inflatable bladders located in the cavity between the base and the gel pad. At least some of the sections of the gel pad are vertically movable substantially independently of adjacent sections of the gel pad due to inflation or deflation of at least one of a corresponding bladder of the plurality of inflatable bladders. In some embodiments, the base and the annular ring comprise foam elements. In some embodiments, a cover is provided and has a stretchable anti-shear portion over situated above the gel pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Allen Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas K. Skripps
  • Patent number: 8261387
    Abstract: A mattress has cells with low air permeability envelopes. Check valves permit air flow into cell groups. An inflation structure expands within the cells when not loaded to cause the envelope to fill with air through the check valves. Another mattress has a cell with a primary bladder, a hollow inflation structure in the primary bladder, a secondary bladder in the hollow inflation structure. The inflation structure expands when not under load to cause the primary bladder to fill with air through the check valve. An air cell has a bladder, a check valve permitting air flow to the bladder, and an inflation structure that expands in the bladder when not under load to cause the bladder to fill with air through the check valve. The inflation structure is a cylindrical foam structure with a portion removed along a surface and a D-shaped hollow space within an upper portion thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Joerns LLC
    Inventors: Shawn Lipman, John R. Laverack, George E. Riehm, Edward A. Gilchrest, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8261386
    Abstract: A back support that provides lumbar support, mid-back support, lateral back support, and arm supports to compensate for a lack of strength in one's core muscles, such as after pregnancy or abdominal surgery. The arm supports are shaped to provide a surface to resist downward force of one's arms while allowing the arms to stay close to the body, as when holding or feeding a baby. The back support encourages proper spinal alignment by providing appropriate areas of support, including a protrusion on the top of the back support that serves as a physical cue to a user when their body is fully upright and centered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Mom's Essentials, LLC
    Inventor: Laura Anne Kardos
  • Patent number: 8250689
    Abstract: The support characteristics within a foam mattress body may be varied by inserting reinforcements into channels cut or otherwise formed within the foam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Dreamwell, Ltd.
    Inventor: Richard F. Gladney
  • Publication number: 20120186025
    Abstract: A back support that provides lumbar support, mid-back support, lateral back support, and arm supports to compensate for a lack of strength in one's core muscles, such as after pregnancy or abdominal surgery. The arm supports are shaped to provide a surface to resist downward force of one's arms while allowing the arms to stay close to the body, as when holding or feeding a baby. The back support encourages proper spinal alignment by providing appropriate areas of support, including a protrusion on the top of the back support that serves as a physical cue to a user when their body is fully upright and centered.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: MOM'S ESSENTIALS, LLC
    Inventor: Laura Anne Kardos
  • Publication number: 20120167308
    Abstract: The disclosure and claims herein are directed to a composite support pad comprising a foam base portion with a top surface, an opposing bottom surface substantially parallel to the top surface, and a plurality of receptacles in the foam base portion, and a top portion comprising a top layer on the top surface with a plurality of columns extending from the top layer into the receptacles. The disclosure and claims herein are also directed to a method for producing a composite support pad, the method comprising the steps of providing a foam base portion with a top surface, an opposing bottom surface substantially parallel to the top surface, and a plurality of receptacles in the foam base portion, applying a composition to the foam base portion, and curing the composition, wherein the curing adheres the top layer to the top surface and the columns to the receptacles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2011
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Inventor: James Van Lear
  • Publication number: 20120131752
    Abstract: A modular supporting element has a supporting surface for a user and includes a plurality of elastic modules, suitable for being deformed according to a direction substantially perpendicular to the supporting surface of the user. Each module has a side surface and an upper portion, wherein the modules are arranged juxtaposed to each other with the side surfaces substantially in contact or with the side surfaces at such a distance as not to prevent contact between one module and another during the elastic deformation movement. The modules have anti-friction surfaces arranged in a part of the side surface of the modules in such a way as to prevent interferences by friction between one module and another. The modular supporting element is made up of a plurality of modules with different rigidity from area to area without any appreciable influence between one module and another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2009
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Applicant: Technogel Italia S.R.L.
    Inventor: Matteo Mason
  • Publication number: 20120117733
    Abstract: A pillow construction is designed to provide a user desirable support to the head and neck of a user, air permeability, ventilation, and air-cooling, to maintain a healthy thermal homeostatis by covering with a breathable cover sheet and a predetermined arrangement of apertures. The pillow construction comprises a head support having a hollow case, made by a solid-state or semi-solid-state material, wherein at least one aperture is formed on a plurality of horizontally opposed side walls on an exterior surface of the head support. A buffer material or a damper material may be selected to be attached onto the surface of the head support for the purpose of enhanced elastic support. A set of holes or slits may be selected to be formed on the surface of the head support to facilitate air convection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2010
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Inventor: Fu-Chieng CHEN
  • Patent number: 8166587
    Abstract: A portable breastfeeding and nursing pillow for a baby includes a base portion in a generally rectangular shape with a contoured side. The base portion further includes a boarder about at least three sides of the base portion and extending a distance above a first feeding surface of the base portion for mitigating problems of the baby rolling off the first feeding surface. The top portion stacked underneath the base portion adds height if needed during the baby nursing time. The top portion also includes a second feeding surface for feeding the baby when additional height of the pillow without the boarder is desired. A strap is joined to the bottom portion for adjustably securing about a person's waist when the pillow is being used for breastfeeding or nursing a baby. The strap is adjustable for resting on a person's shoulder when transporting the pillow. A decorative binding strap holds the top portion to the bottom portion when transporting the pillow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Inventor: Valerie N Collins
  • Publication number: 20120084924
    Abstract: A pillow comprising a plurality of resiliently deformable members connected in series and in an endless manner to form a head bearing surface and a support surface for supporting the head bearing surface. In this pillow, nicknamed Contracks Pillow, each of the head bearing surface and the support surface comprises a plurality of the resiliently deformable members and the members are reconfigurable like a track. This pillow arrangement mitigates the shortcomings of premature permanent deformation of conventional pillows having a constant head bearing portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2010
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Inventor: Mei Yuk CHENG
  • Patent number: 8151389
    Abstract: A baby changing mat adapted for fitting onto a stroller seat or car seat. The mat comprises an upper pad and a lower pad. The upper pad has a head end 112 and a foot end. The lower pad has a head end and a foot end. In some embodiments, the foot end of the upper pad pivotably connects with the head end of the lower pad. The upper pad has a generally a uniform thickness stretching from the head end to the foot end of the upper pad. In some embodiments, the head end of the lower pad has a thickness the same that of the foot end of the upper pad, and the thickness gradually increases towards the foot end of the lower pad to form a wedge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventor: Madelyn Lando
  • Patent number: 8099812
    Abstract: A spring element unit for a padding element, especially a mattress, comprises a plurality of spring elements. The spring element consists of an open-cell polyurethane flexible foam material and comprises at least one recess. Such a spring element unit is used in a padding element, especially a mattress, which comprises a base body for receiving the spring element unit. Such a spring element unit prevents a build-up of heat and humidity between the body and the supporting padding element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Metzeler Schaum GmbH
    Inventors: Maik Steppat, Barbara Puhane, Volker Maidhof, Andreas Bauer, Manfred Hohenhorst
  • Publication number: 20120011656
    Abstract: There is provided a cushion (10) comprising an envelope (12) comprising at least an inner and outer layer (14, 16) of polyurethane material, and a resilient core (17) of an open-cell polyurethane foam material inside the envelope (12), wherein the envelope (12) is substantially air- and liquid-impermeable, and the inner layer (14) is at least partially attached to the outer layer (16) and the resilient core (17) so as to provide a plurality of microchannels of an outer surface of at least a top portion of the envelope (12), a kit comprising such cushion (10) and a removable cover, a cushion system and a method of manufacturing such a cushion (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2010
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Inventor: Patrick Noel Daly
  • Publication number: 20110314607
    Abstract: A mattress, cushion or the like has an outer cover enclosing a resilient core. The resilient core is formed by a viscoelastic foam layer with a vapour permeable reinforcing layer of stretchable material laminated onto a top surface of the viscoelastic foam layer. The reinforcing layer prevents cracking in the top surface of the viscoelastic foam layer and provides improved heat and moisture dissipation during use. The reinforcing layer is preferably formed by a spaced knitted fabric.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Applicant: LANCASTRIA LIMITED
    Inventors: David Woolfson, Padraig Hackett
  • Publication number: 20110289689
    Abstract: A pillow assembly including a foam core having a top surface, side surface, and bottom surface, and an outer layer covering the top surface and side surface and leaving the bottom surface substantially exposed. The foam core has a higher hardness and a higher density than the outer layer. The foam core and the outer layer comprise reticulated or non-reticulated visco-elastic foam. The outer layer covers a majority of the foam core and has a substantially constant thickness across the top surface. The foam core includes a front side and a back side, both of which are covered by the outer layer and left and right sides of the foam core, which are exposed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2009
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventors: Tom D. Mikkelsen, Chris Collins
  • Publication number: 20110252568
    Abstract: A body support system for relieving contact pressure on a joint in a body, according to various aspects of the present invention, may be configured to elevate a chest portion of the body with a chest support that may be configured to form a taper disposed between a top portion and a bottom portion such that the weight of the body compresses the chest support, which may result in the chest support assuming a substantially inverted arc shape. The compressed edges of the arc may be occupied by the joint. The chest support may further be adjustable for positioning substantially between a collarbone portion of the body and a xiphoid process portion of the body when the body is in a side rest position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: Kathleen Ramp
  • Patent number: 8037562
    Abstract: A mattress including a core foam layer having a first indentation force deflection at twenty five percent compression, a first density and a first thickness. The top outer foam layer has a second indentation force deflection at twenty five percent compression, a second density and a second thickness. The first intermediate foam layer is intermediate and coextensive with the core layer and the top outer layer, and has a third indentation force deflection at twenty five percent compression, a third density and a third intermediate thickness. The first indentation force deflection is greater than the third indentation force deflection and the third indentation force deflection is greater than the second indentation force deflection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Kemper Support Surfaces, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher E. Kemper, Kristi Sonsteby Kemper
  • Patent number: 8020230
    Abstract: An aspect of the present invention relates to a method and system of receiving information of a user's support facility comfort requirements; using a software application to determine a proper support facility firmness configuration to match the user's requirement; selecting foam springs with the proper user required firmness as determined by the software application; and configuring the selected foam springs within the support facility to match the user's firmness requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventor: Martin B Rawls-Meehan
  • Patent number: 8020937
    Abstract: A vehicle seat assembly having a cushion composite attachable to a vehicle. The cushion composite has a structural layer of an expanded polymer and a cushion layer adjacent the structural layer. A trim material covers the cushion composite. The structural layer is proximate the vehicle when the cushion composite is attached to the vehicle. A surface of the structural layer defines a cavity extending into the structural layer. An opening of the cavity is disposed proximate the vehicle when the cushion composite is attached to the vehicle. The cavity is configured to facilitate flexure of the structural layer when a force is applied to the structural layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Eric Partington, Ashford A. Galbreath, Asad S. Ali
  • Patent number: 7996940
    Abstract: A seat cushion employing the benefit of a foam cushion and alternating pressure air cushion. An air bladder reservoir with vertically extending fingers is located beneath a foam core with vertical holes. The vertically extending fingers are aligned with the vertical holes of the foam core. The air bladder reservoir and vertically extending fingers are inflated and deflated by a compressor system which provides alternating timed pressure. When inflated, the fingers protrude through the holes in the foam core beyond the top surface of the foam core. A method for fabricating the vertically extending fingers includes a cloth material coated in silicon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: University of South Florida
    Inventors: Matt Dahm, Daniel Duduka, Mark Olsen, Jeffrey Herron
  • Publication number: 20110179577
    Abstract: A foot/leg cradle cushion prevents crossing of ankles or legs for long periods of time, which has been associated with circulatory problems related to cardiac or stroke episodes. The cradle cushion is a soft yet sufficiently supportive device whereby the feet and/or lower legs are held separated from each other and prevented from being crossed. The cradle cushion has a pair of outer flange walls extending upward from a base with a taller middle wall that separates the feet or lower legs of the user. Thus is formed a U-shaped recess on either side of the central wall which would receive each foot and/or leg separated by the width of the central wall. This effectively prevents leg crossing which causes compression of the user's circulatory system in both lower legs and ankle regions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2010
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Inventors: Edward S. Gould, Peter Georgatos
  • Publication number: 20110162148
    Abstract: A method for reducing a cushion footprint for long-term storage may include inserting a foam core into a plastic cover, subsequently applying a vacuum to the plastic cover, and, while under the vacuum effect, sealing the plastic cover, and its contents. A device providing the vacuum effect may include a surface having protruding sections connected to non-protruding sections via tapered sections. A cushion may include an at least 20 density high resiliency foam core, and a fabric cover that includes (a) a combination of polyester and spandex and/or lycra, (b) nylon to which a thin water resistant material coating is applied, and/or (c) polyester fabric including raised anti-slip polyvinyl chloride dots, other portions of the polyester fabric at which the dots are not positioned having applied thereto a polyvinyl chloride coating. The device may compress the foam core while housed in a fabric cover, housed in the plastic cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2011
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Inventors: Moshe Klerer, Stuart Simonovits
  • Publication number: 20110083278
    Abstract: A breast support pillow includes a wedge-shaped rectangular even flat surface pad thicker at a top end with an inclined upper surface and being of sufficient length to support a torso and a head of an individual/woman. The pad has a double cup recess within the upper surface at about mid-point of the length of the pad to receive the different sizes of inserts in order to different breasts' sized of the woman in a comfortable manner therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2010
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventor: AMY MURATALLA
  • Publication number: 20110083277
    Abstract: A foam pad includes a plurality of pad sections for supporting body portions of a user in a use condition. Two of the pad sections are end sections constituted of a foam material having a predetermined density, and another of the pad sections is a middle section constituted of a foam material having a density different from the predetermined density. The middle section is interlocked with one of the pad sections and located between the end sections in the use condition for supporting at least one of the body portions of the user to a different extent than the end sections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventor: David HENSON
  • Publication number: 20110072587
    Abstract: Cushions are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a cushion is comprised of a plurality of foam profiles each having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a geometry of reduced cross-section area from the top surface to the bottom surface in a vertical projection. The plurality of foam profiles are arranged such that the top surfaces of the plurality of foam profiles are disposed in or substantially in a first plane. In this manner, hollow portions can be formed between adjacent foam profiles. At least one sheet of material is affixed to at least one of the top surface and the bottom surface of the plurality of foam profiles. When a compression force is imposed on the cushion, the hollow portions allow the foam profiles to adapt to deformation. Further, by providing the hollow portions, the cushion can more easily be rolled or wrapped for transport or storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: NOMACO INC.
    Inventors: Bangshu Cao, Edouard Lauer
  • Patent number: 7906050
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a wheelchair having a back plate and a seat plate and a manufacturing method thereof, and more particularly, to a customized wheelchair having a back plate and a seat plate formed to fit a body shape and a manufacturing method thereof. In a method of manufacturing a customized wheelchair having a back plate and a seat plate which are designed to fit a body shape, the method includes steps of: forming a preliminary molding material which is directly formed to fit a back and a hip of a user; fixing the preliminary molding material to a molding frame; filling a foaming resin in the molding frame fixed with the preliminary molding material; hardening the foaming resin filled in the molding frame; and releasing a last molding material which is foamed and hardened to have a shape of the back and the hip of the user by the preliminary molding material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Eugene Medicare Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Sung Lae Kim
  • Patent number: 7886388
    Abstract: A mattress constructed with multiple foam layers joined together provides reclining support with pressure redistribution for heavy weight persons, particularly those weighing over 350 pounds. The mattress includes: a core layer having a substantially planar top surface and at least two spaced apart regions in a bottom surface from which foam material has been extracted to leave cavities separated by an interconnected network of foam walls, a top layer of viscoelastic foam with an air permeability above 60 ft3/ft2/min, and a bottom layer of stiffer supporting foam. The open cavities of the core layer are directed away from the body supporting top surface of the mattress.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Foamex Innovations Operating Company
    Inventors: Stephen C. Warren, Jose D. Contreras, Kerry Lynn McCabe, Beat B. Niederoest
  • Patent number: 7883151
    Abstract: The foot support is a support for use with pedicures or the like, and provides a comfortable rest for the user's foot or ankle. The foot support includes an elongated body having longitudinally opposed first and second ends, with the first end thereof having a recess formed therein. The recess is substantially parabolic in cross section and is adapted for receiving the heel or ankle of the user's foot. The second end of the elongated body is substantially planar and adapted for positioning on a support surface, such as the edge of a foot bath. The elongated body defines at least one outer side surface having a plurality of longitudinally extending recesses formed therein. Preferably, the elongated body is simulates a flower when viewed from an end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Inventors: Debby Behmer, Joyce Gale Mallia
  • Publication number: 20110016633
    Abstract: A support pillow is formed of two pillows connected by a concave-shaped pillow case. The support pillow may be used by persons lying on their stomach. The two-pillow configuration has a space therebetween to allow a person's breasts to fall into, thereby preventing them from being crushed by the user's own body weight. Pain and discomfort caused by crushing one's breasts can be alleviated by the support pillow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2010
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventor: TAI EASON
  • Patent number: 7861720
    Abstract: A patient axillary support cushion utilizing a first member having a base, a first leg, and a second leg. First and second legs are connected to the base to form a channel for placement adjacent the axilla of a patient. The first leg is shorter than the second leg and is intended to allow the placement of endo-tracheal tubes. A second member formed of softer material overlies the channel formed by the elements of the first member. The second member may include convoluted surface characteristics for pressing the skin of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Mizuho Orthopedic Systems, Inc
    Inventor: Jane Wolcott
  • Publication number: 20100325801
    Abstract: A free-standing head support apparatus includes a soft, foam-like material with a front, a back and a base. The back is adapted to rest against a vertical surface, and the base is adapted to rest against an approximately horizontal surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventor: Holly S. TUCKER
  • Publication number: 20100306894
    Abstract: A system of modular, detachable cushions having surfaces containing hook and/or loop fasteners that fasten to mating loop, open weave or hook surfaces to define adjustable, conformal contoured support surfaces at user contact surfaces and appliances producing fatigue and/or abrasion (e.g. automotive seats, chairs, compartment walls, desks, footwear, helmets, tools etc.). The cushions can include air, elastomer, fabric, fiber, foam, liquid, gel, and/or rubber cushioning materials or combinations thereof arranged in envelopes, pads, cavities or tiered assemblies. The cushions include surfaces fitted with one or more layers of cushioning materials or envelopes of cushioning material and one or more regions of fastener materials that mate with interconnecting fasteners at the contact surface or appliance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Inventor: Nathaniel Calvert
  • Publication number: 20100229308
    Abstract: Cushions include a plurality of core structures and a support material at least partially surrounding each core structure of the plurality of core structures. The core structures and support material comprise different deformable polymer materials. Each of the core structures may be configured as a column having a column axis. Methods of forming cushions include forming a plurality of core structures, and at least partially surrounding each core structure of the plurality of core structures with a support material comprising a second, different deformable polymer material. The core structures may be configured such that each core structure is integrally interconnected along a length thereof to no more than two other core structures of the plurality of core structures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2010
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Applicant: EDIZONE, LLC
    Inventors: Tony M. Pearce, Joseph T. Nilson
  • Patent number: 7793372
    Abstract: A bedding product including an upper surface defining a sleeping position, a plurality of capsules, each including a phase change material, a first layer including latex foam and the plurality of capsules distributed throughout the latex foam, at least one second layer adjacent below the first layer, and wherein the first layer is less than about 2 inches below the upper surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Latex Foam International Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: John T. Lean, George Suplee, Derek R. Bobowick
  • Publication number: 20100223732
    Abstract: Embodiments disclosed in the detailed description include a unitary or monolithic composite or hybrid cushioning structure(s) and profile(s) comprised of a cellular thermoplastic foam and a thermoset material. The thermoset material may also be provided as cellular foam as well. In one embodiment disclosed herein, the unitary composite cushioning structure is formed from a cellular thermoplastic foam and a thermoset material. The cellular thermoplastic foam provides support characteristics to the unitary composite cushioning structure. The thermoset material provides a resilient structure with cushioning characteristics to the cushioning structure. A stratum is disposed between at least a portion of the cellular thermoplastic foam and at least a portion of the thermoset material to secure the at least a portion of the thermoset material to the at least a portion of the cellular thermoplastic foam to provide a unitary composite cushioning structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2010
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Applicant: Noel Group LLC
    Inventors: Michael Allman, Bangshu Cao, Andrew Costas Yiannaki, Ivan Sobran, Randal Lee Henderson
  • Patent number: 7789461
    Abstract: A seating pad assembly is provided for use by travelers to increase the comfort for a seat on a public transportation vehicle or at a public transit terminal. The seating pad assembly includes a cushion formed from a viscoelastic foam and having dimensions substantially conforming to the dimensions of at least the hip/thigh support and the back support of the seat. Thus, the viscoelastic foam will bridge hard points and pinch points of the seat and will efficiently support the traveler across the gap. The seating pad assembly further includes a removable cover, straps for holding the pad in a coiled condition and a carrying bag for transporting the pad assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: Nightgear LLC
    Inventor: Richard M. Leeds