Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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CUSTOMIZABLE PI LLOW
Field
The technology described herein relates to a customizable pillow and to a
system
and method for creating a customized pillow for a user. The technology
described herein
also relates to a customizable mattress that has renewable parts and to a
system and
method for creating a customized mattress for a user.
Background
Many different types of pillows have been designed, including those with
inserts
that adjust for height, or that use different materials in order to provide
the user with a
different feel. Pillows of different shapes have been created, or with cut out
portions for
accepting parts of the user's body, such as shoulders or arms.
Mattresses typically are made of a base having coils and foam padding above
and
around the coils. Other types of mattresses use air bladders that may be
filled or emptied
in order to provide the user with a different feel. When mattress covers get
soiled,
frayed, or generally old looking, users often need to replace the mattress to
get something
that is desirable from an aesthetics point of view. In addition, the materials
that form the
various layers of the mattress can wear out over time so that a mattress will
begin to sag
in areas where, for instance, the foam has compressed due to use.
Green products have become popular. Mattresses typically are not green
because,
when the foam padding wears out, or the fabric gets stained, a user needs to
dispose of
the entire mattress and buy a new one.
Pillows used in the United States are made in different sizes, including:
Standard - 20 x
26 inches; Jumbo ¨ 20 x 28 inches; Queen ¨ 20 x 30 inches; King ¨ 20 x 36
inches; Euro
¨ 26 x 26 inches; and Body ¨ 20 x 54 or 20 x 60 inches.
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Pillows may be constructed in several different ways. For example, pillows can
be formed of a top sheet of material and a bottom sheet of material that are
joined around
their outer periphery. They may include a connection means between the top and
bottom
sheets of material, including stitching, a zipper, or the like. Another type
of pillow
includes a gusset or sidewall. A gusseted pillow has height added by a piece
of fabric, or
rib, that is incorporated between the side seams of the top and the bottom
sheets of
material of the pillow. This additional middle fabric allows the pillow to be
thicker and
thus contain more filling. Typically the pillow gusset runs 1/2 an inch to 3
inches.
Gusseted pillows have a high loft or thick appearance, and are favored for
their luxurious
style and comfort.
Some pillows may feature piping or braiding for decorative aesthetic visuals.
In
general these decorative elements do not add nor hinder the feeling of the
pillow. In some
extreme cases the piping or braiding can be large enough to cause an
uncomfortable
bump underneath a pillow case, but that is rare. Other decorative elements can
include
printed fabric on the pillow, the gusset or both.
Pillows may be provided with a pillow protector, which is an outer protector
that
protects the basic inner pillow fabric (which includes the top sheet of
material, the bottom
sheet of material, and any gusset, if one is provided). Pillow protectors may
include a
premium smooth zipper so as to not feel the zipper when the pillow protector
is closed
and in use.
Pillows are generally rated by their appearance and comfort. Gusseted sleeping
pillows are considered more comfortable than ordinary pillows because the fill
maintains
a higher loft and the pillow maintains its height all the way to each edge.
Gusseted
pillows provide superior head and neck support by encouraging head and neck
alignment.
Gusseted pillows are available in medium, firm and extra firm densities to
enhance their
ergonomic benefits. Gusseted decorative pillows have a chic and contemporary
profile.
The gusset on a decorative pillow can be made in a contrasting or coordinating
fabric to
enhance interior decoration.
Pillows may be filled with many different types of material, such as natural
and
synthetic materials. Natural materials include cotton, wool, duck or goose
down and
feathers, and buckwheat, among other natural materials. Cotton filling
provides a firmer,
flatter pillow that holds its shape reasonably well. Cotton is also cooler and
"breathes"
better than other materials. Wool provides a fuller feeling pillow and wool is
also
durable, maintains warmth and absorbs moisture away from the surface of the
pillow.
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Down pillows are the softest and provide a "light as air" feeling. Down filled
pillows can
be "squished" and reshaped often and the down should not bunch or clump. Down
feather pillows offer a lightweight, softer way for side sleepers to feel
comfort throughout
the night. Down consists of the small feathers found underneath outer feathers
on birds.
Since down is smaller, it lacks the barbules that can poke out through a
feather pillow.
The fibers hold warm air close to a person's head and work as an insulator.
Down pillows
are durable and will retain their shape over time.
Natural buckwheat filling is useful for people who are allergic to feathers or
to
synthetic materials. The even support means no more cramps or muscle tension,
both of
which are known to contribute to headaches and stress. Chiropractors around
the world
recommend this natural therapy for spinal health and well-being. Buckwheat is
not
actually 'wheat,' but a fruit related to the rhubarb plant. The hull or outer
skin of the
fruit is used as filling in the pillows.
Synthetic pillow filling materials include foam, fiber, latex and polyester.
In the
case of polyester, the filling can be 100% polyester or a polyester/cotton
blend. Polyester
fibers are often arranged in three-dimensional clusters that help the pillow
hold its shape
and provide optimal neck support. Examples of types of polyester fill include:
Cluster
Fiber, Dry Fast Foam, Rebond, Memory Foam, Closed Cell Foam, Latex Rubber
Foam,
Supreem, Evlon, High Resilience Foam, Polyurethane, Micro-Air Bead Pillow, and
Geofoam. Cluster fiber is small clusters of polyester that is fluffable like
down. Memory
Foam is polyurethane with additional chemicals increasing its viscosity and
density.
Memory foam conforms to the head and neck, returning to its previous shape
once the
pressure is removed. This visco-elasticity allows for easy adaptation to head
movements
during the night. Foam within the pillow has hundreds of holes that provide
adequate air
circulation and prevent moisture collection. Synthetic materials have some
benefits over
natural fibers; they are allergy and odor free, they tend to last longer and
they are
generally more affordable. Dust mites are three times less likely to survive
on a foam
pillow.
There are different types of materials that can be used in pillow covers,
including
cotton, polyester, wool, acrylic, T-spun polyester, filament polyester, stitch
bond
polyester; vinyl, olefin, PVC, Easy care polycotton, percale, Egyptian cotton,
sateen,
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tencel, tencel blends, microfibers, combinations of any of the above-noted
types of
materials, as well as many other known types of materials. The thread count of
the
pillow cover may be relevant depending upon the type of filling inside the
pillow cover.
Thread count refers to the number of yarns woven together in one square inch
of fabric.
Thread counts vary, the higher the count the better the fabric. Finer threads
usually result
in a much smoother and softer fabric.
In considering mattress construction, there are four basic types of materials
used
in making mattresses: steel springs, foam (memory, poly, latex and soy), cover
materials
(cotton, polyester, bamboo) and plastic/canvas in air and water beds. Foam is
the
common ingredient used in every type of mattress. Softer foams are used in the
cover and
in the top layers of the mattress for cushioning. Firmer foams are used on the
sides and
either beneath the spring unit or in place of the spring unit.
Most foam is petrochemical based meaning that it is made from oil. One type of
popular foam is memory foam because it conforms to your body and reduces
pressure
points. But memory foam is a soft material and isn't meant to be supportive.
So it works
best when layered over a firm, supportive material. Foams of all types can
range in
densities.
Mattress materials differ depending on not just the type of mattress but on
the
placement in the mattress. A modern mattress will consist of three layers of
materials: the
core or support layer, the comfort layer and the quilt layer. Each layer is
made of
different materials.
The core support layer is arguably the most important part of your mattress.
Below are the most common materials found in the support section of mattresses
today:
Water Chambers (as in water beds), Air Chambers, Foam Cores including memory,
latex
and poly foam, coils, and innersprings, among other materials. Coils are
measured in
quarter increments. The lower the number of coils, the thicker the spring. In
general,
higher-quality mattress coils have a 14-gauge (1.63 mm) diameter. Coils of 14
to 15.5-
gauge (1.63 to 1.37 mm) give more easily under pressure, while a 12.5-gauge
(1.94 mm)
coil, the thickest typically available, feels quite firm.
Connections between the coils help the mattress retain its shape. Most coils
are
connected by interconnecting wires; encased coils are not connected, but the
fabric
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encasement helps preserve the mattress shape. Types of mattress coils include
bonnell,
marshall, offset, and continuous coils.
The comfort layer takes care of a user's hips and shoulders. The comfort layer
includes all the material between the support layer and the quilt layer. It
cushions the
body from the firm support section below. Below are the most common materials
in the
comfort layer to help relieve pressure on your body: convoluted foam;
polyurethane
foam; soy foam; latex foam; Memory foam; polyester fiber; cotton fiber; wool
fiber;
nonwoven fiber pads; pocket coils; and gel infused foams. Different
combinations of
each are very common in order to provide a variety of feels and price points.
The quilt layer is the uppermost layer of the mattress and usually consists of
polyurethane foam, fiber, and less common, latex foam. Its purpose is to
provide the
initial softness for the body. The quilted layer if often made of light foam
or fibers
stitched to the underside of the ticking. It provides a soft surface texture
to the mattress
and can be found in varying degrees of firmness. The protective fabric cover
which
encases the mattress and foundation is called ticking. It is usually designed
to coordinate
with the foundation border fabric and comes in a wide variety of colors and
styles.
Mattress fabrics can be knits, damask or printed wovens, or inexpensive
nonwovens.
Most ticking is made with polyester yarns. More expensive mattress fabrics may
contain
a combination of polyester with rayon, cotton, silk, wool or other natural
yarns.
Organic materials may be used in mattresses and pillows. Such materials in a
mattress can be made with several materials derived from natural plants and
fibers. These
include cotton, hemp, bamboo, jute, ramie, soy silk, nettle fiber and calico.
Many of these
fibers are derived from vegetables and plants that have been cultivated
without the use of
chemicals and pesticides. These materials may also be blended with
biodegradable
laminates and colored with non-toxic dyes.
Different sizes of beds include: Crib/Toddler: 27 1/4 in. x 51 5/8 in;
Single/Twin:
39 in. x 75 in.; Single/Twin XL: 39 in x 80 in.; Double/Full: 54 in. x 75 in.;
Double/Full
XL: 53 in. x 80 in.; Queen: 60 in. x 80 in.; Eastern King: 76 in x. 82 in.;
California King:
72 in. x 84 in. Other sizes are also available.
Mattresses are often provided with foundations. There are three main types of
foundation. A box-spring consists of a rigid frame containing extra-heavy-duty
springs.
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This foundation contributes to softer support and a bouncier mattress. Because
box-
springs can allow mattresses to sag, many manufacturers add high-density block
foam
underneath the coils or provide a rigid foundation instead. A traditional wood
foundation
is usually made of softwood, such as pine, or hardwood. It usually has seven
or eight
support slats disposed below paperboard or beaverboard. This foundation,
called a zero-
deflection unit or an "Ortho Box" in the bed industry, increases the feeling
of firmness
and stability. A grid foundation is a combination of steel and wood. Typically
the
measurements of a foundation will be about 1-2" shorter than the measurement
of a
mattress.
Summary
In accordance with the teachings described herein, a customizable pillow is
described, as well as a method customizing a pillow. In addition, a
customizable mattress
is described.
Brief Description of the Drawing Figures
Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a pillow case or shell for use with the
example
apparatus, showing alternative closures¨one along the length of one side of
the shell and
the other along an end of the shell;
Fig. 2 is a side view of an exterior of a pillow case or shell for use with
the
example apparatus, showing a closure along one side of the case;
Fig. 3a is a cross-sectional side view of a hollow interior of a pillow case
or shell
for use with the example apparatus, showing a closure along one side of the
case and
showing two interior panels, as well as a gusseted pillow case design;
Fig. 3b is a cross-sectional side view of a hollow interior of a pillow case
or shell
for use with the example apparatus, showing a closure along one side of the
case and
showing two interior panels, with the pillow case being constructed with a
single seam
around the perimeter;
Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a hollow interior of a pillow case or
shell for
use with the example apparatus, showing a closure along one side of the case
and
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showing one interior panel, with the pillow case being constructed with a
single seam
around the perimeter;
Fig. 5 is a perspective view of an example apparatus in expanded view, which
includes a shell or pillow case having an opening that is closeable by a
closure, and a
.. plurality of inserts that range from 5 ounces weight to 30 ounces weight,
with one or
more of the inserts being insertable into the opening of the shell to vary the
weight and
thus height of the pillow, with the weights applying to, for example, a queen
size pillow,
and with the inserts having a substantially rectangular configuration;
Fig. 6 is a perspective view of an alternative example apparatus in expanded
view,
which includes a shell or pillow case having an opening that is closeable by a
closure and
a plurality of inserts that range from 1/2 inches height to 3 inches height,
with one or more
of the inserts being insertable into the opening of the shell to vary the
height of the
pillow, and with the inserts having a tapered configuration at the ends of the
inserts;
Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional side view of an example apparatus having all four
inserts from Fig. 5 inserted into a shell so that the total weight of the
pillow is 65 ounces
and the pillow is substantially rectangular because the inserts are
substantially
rectangular, with the shell being hollow without any inner panels;
Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional side view of an example apparatus having all four
inserts, similar to those in Fig. 5, inserted into a shell so that the total
weight of the pillow
is 65 ounces, with the pillow being tapered at the ends because the inserts
are contoured
into a taper at the ends, and with the shell being hollow without any inner
panels;
Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional side view of the example apparatus of Fig. 5
having two
inserts inserted into the shell, with the shell having two inner holding
member in the form
of panels;
Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional side view of the example apparatus of Fig. 5
having
three inserts inserted into the shell, with the shell having two holding
members in the
form of inner panels;
Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional side view of the example apparatus of Fig. 5
having
one insert inserted into the shell, with the shell having a single holding
member in the
form of an inner panel;
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Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional side view of the example apparatus of Fig. 5
having
two inserts inserted into the shell, with the shell having a single holding
member in the
form of an inner panel;
Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional side view of the example apparatus of Fig. 5
having
four inserts inserted into the shell, with the shell having three holding
members in the
form of inner panels;
Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional side view of the example apparatus of Fig. 5
having
four inserts inserted into the shell, with the shell having two holding
members in the form
of inner panels;
Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional side view of the example apparatus of Fig. 6
having
two inserts inserted into the shell, with the shell having no inner holding
members;
Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional side view of the example apparatus of Figs. 5 and
6
having one insert inserted into the shell, with the shell having no inner
holding members;
Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional side view of the example apparatus of Figs. 5 and
6
having one insert inserted into the shell, with the shell having no holding
members;
Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional side view of the example apparatus of Figs. 5 and
6
having two inserts inserted into the shell, with the shell having no holding
members;
Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional side view of the example apparatus of Figs. 5 and
6
having one insert inserted into the shell, with the shell having no holding
members;
Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional side view of the example apparatus of Figs. 5 and
6
having two inserts inserted into the shell, with the shell having no holding
members;
Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional side view of the example apparatus of Figs. 5 and
6
having two inserts inserted into the shell, with the shell having no holding
members;
Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional side view of the example apparatus of Figs. 5 and
6
having three inserts inserted into the shell, with the shell having no holding
members;
Fig. 23 is a cross-sectional side view of the example apparatus of Figs. 5 and
6
having two inserts inserted into the shell, with the shell having no holding
members;
Fig. 24 is a cross-sectional side view of the example apparatus of Figs. 5 and
6
having three inserts inserted into the shell, with the shell having no holding
members;
Fig. 25 is a cross-sectional side view of the example apparatus of Figs. 5 and
6
having two inserts inserted into the shell, with the shell having no holding
members;
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Fig. 26 is a cross-sectional side view of the example apparatus of Figs. 5 and
6
having three inserts inserted into the shell, with the shell having no holding
members;
Fig. 27 is a cross-sectional side view of the example apparatus of Figs. 5 and
6
having three inserts inserted into the shell, with the shell having no holding
members;
Fig. 28 is a cross-sectional side view of the example apparatus of Figs. 5 and
6
having four inserts inserted into the shell, with the shell having no holding
members;
Fig. 29 is a perspective view of an alternative pillow shell for use with the
example apparatus of Figs. 5 and 6, with the closure being shown as a zipper,
and with
the shell having one or more inner panels that extend across the length of the
pillow, but
that alternatively could extend across the width;
Fig. 30 is a perspective view of an alternative pillow shell for use with the
example apparatus of Figs. 5 and 6, with the closure being Velcro, and with
the shell
having one or more inner straps that extend across the length of the pillow,
but that
alternatively could extend across the width;
Fig. 31 is a perspective view of an alternative pillow shell for use with the
example apparatus of Figs. 5 and 6, with the shell having one or more inner
panels that
extend across the width of the pillow, but that alternatively could extend
across the length
of the pillow, with the panels being substantially full-sized panels;
Fig. 32 is a perspective view of an alternative pillow shell for use with the
example apparatus of Figs. 5 and 6, with the shell having one or more inner
panels that
extend across the length of the pillow, but that alternatively could extend
across the width
of the pillow, with the panels being substantially full-sized panels;
Fig. 33 is a perspective view of the exterior an example mattress according to
the
invention in an assembled state, with the mattress having an outer shell and
which may
include a separate foundation;
Fig. 34 is a cross-sectional end view of an example mattress according to the
invention, with the example mattress having a mattress base, a mattress
topping portion
54, and a mattress cover 56 that extends around the mattress base and the
mattress
topping portion, with the mattress cover being connected to the mattress base
via a
closure, such as Velcro;
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Fig. 35 is a cross-sectional end view of an example mattress according to the
invention, with the example mattress having a mattress base that incorporates
springs, a
mattress topping portion that incorporates one or more foam, fiber, or other
material
layers, and a mattress cover that extends around the mattress base and the
mattress
topping portion, with the mattress cover being connected to the mattress base
via a
closure, such as a stretchy periphery much like a fitted sheet;
Fig. 36 is a cross-sectional end view of an example mattress according to the
invention, with the example mattress having a mattress base of any type, a
mattress
topping portion that incorporates one or more foam, fiber, or other material
layers,
including a convoluted foam layer, and a mattress cover that extends around
the mattress
base and the mattress topping portion and that is connected to the mattress
base via a
closure, such as Velcro closures that are positioned under the mattress base;
Fig. 37 is a cross-sectional end view of an example mattress according to the
invention, with the example mattress having a mattress base of any type, a
mattress
topping portion that incorporates one or more foam, fiber, or other material
layers, and a
mattress cover that may include a foam, fiber, or other filling inside the
entire surface of
the cover, with the cover extending around the mattress base and mattress
topping portion
and that is connected to the mattress base via a closure, such as Velcro
closures that are
positioned under the mattress base;
Fig. 38 is a cross-sectional end view of an example mattress according to the
invention, with the example mattress having a mattress base of any type, a
mattress
topping portion that incorporates one or more foam, fiber, or other material
layers, and a
mattress cover that may include a foam, fiber, or other filling inside the
topping portion
of the cover, with the cover extending around the mattress base and mattress
topping
portion and that is connected to the mattress base via a closure, such as
Velcro closures
that are positioned under the mattress base;
Fig. 39 is an expanded cross-sectional end view of an example mattress
according
to the invention, with the example mattress having a mattress base of any
type, a mattress
topping area that incorporates one or more foam, fiber, or other material
inserts, and a
mattress cover, with a liner being provided to cover the mattress topping area
so that
inserts may be inserted inside the liner, with the cover extending around the
mattress base
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and mattress topping portion to cover the liner and that is connected to the
mattress base
via a closure, such as Velcro closures;
Fig. 40 is a perspective view of an example mattress according to the
invention
showing a removable top that is coupled to the mattress topping portion of the
mattress,
with the removable top being coupled to the sides of the mattress topping
portion via any
known closure, such as a zipper and with inserts being insertable into the
main body of
the mattress topping portion;
Fig. 41 is a cross-sectional end view of an example mattress according to the
invention showing an alternative configuration for the mattress, with a
mattress base, one
or more inserts, side portions which may be padded, and a top cover which may
be
padded, with the top cover being connectable to the side portions via Velcro
or other
attachment mechanisms;
Fig. 42 is a cross-sectional end view of an example mattress according to the
invention showing an alternative configuration for the mattress, with no
mattress base,
.. but with a shell that is used to house the inserts inside the shell, with
the shell shown as
being optionally padded along all or parts of its sides, with the shell
providing a platform
for housing the inserts into the shell and having a top cover that may be
positioned over
the inserts and around the sides of the shell;
Fig. 43 is a cross-sectional end view of an example mattress according to the
invention showing an alternative configuration that incorporates a scented or
chemically
treated layer positioned between the cover and the insert, and also showing
that the cover
itself can be chemically treated or scented;
Fig. 44 is a cross-sectional side view of an example pillow according to the
invention including a scented sheet or layer of material positioned between
two of the
inserts inside the pillow, and with the external cover of the pillow being
chemically
treated; and
Fig. 45 is a cross-sectional end view of an example pillow according to the
invention including a scented sheet or layer of material positioned between
the pillow
cover and the top insert.
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Fig. 46 is a graph which illustrates a weight index, showing various weight
combinations.
Other combinations incorporating various features described in the drawings
arc
also readily anticipated based upon the drawings and the following disclosure.
'
'
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Detailed Description
The technology described herein relates to both pillows 10 and mattresses 60.
The general concept is the same--providing a highly customizable product that
may be
varied at the whim of the user by selecting new inserts, covers, or materials.
The product
is also easily recyclable and creates a product with a long life since it may
be rejuvenated
easily.
Figs. 1-32 and 44-45 depict examples of a first embodiment of the invention
that
includes a shell or pillow case 12 and various inserts 14 that may be inserted
into the
shell 12 to alter the shape and feel of the pillow 10. The inserts 14 have
specific sizes
that allow the user to vary the weight or height of the pillow 10 in even
increments in
order to provide the user with a large amount of variability. Two examples are
described,
with one being based upon the weight of the inserts 14 and the other being
based upon
the height of the inserts 14. Specific sizes are shown because they provide 5
ounces of
variability for weights ranging from 5 ounces to 65 ounces, or 1/2 inch of
variability of
height for heights ranging from 1/2 inch to 6 1/2 inches. It is envisioned
that other
increments could be provided while providing the variability noted, as will be
discussed
below. In addition, if only three inserts 14 are used, either the larger or
smaller insert 14
could be removed from the set to provide variability in a range that is lower
than that
described herein. Thus, variations of the design disclosed herein are
possible, but
incremental variation is what is preferred.
The figures show a pillow case or shell 12 that can be used for inserting the
inserts 14 into the shell 12 so the user can build his or her own pillow 10
based upon his
or her own needs. These needs include, but are not limited to, size of the
user, sleeping
pattern of the user (such as side, stomach, or back sleeper), and material
preferences of
the user. By providing the type of variability in the inserts 14 as described
herein, a user
will have a plethora of options in selecting the suitable pillow 10 for their
needs. In
addition, because the inserts 14 are removable and replaceable, different
materials may be
used at different times, or different thicknesses or weights can be used at
different times.
If one of the inserts 14 gets soiled, it can easily be replaced without having
to dispose of
the entire pillow 10. If a user prefers a cooler pillow 10 in the summer and a
pillow 10
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that retains heat in the winter, different inserts 14 can be selected based
upon individual
preferences. Thus, the pillow 10 design described herein has many benefits to
a user,
including those relating to the "green" movement.
The pillow case or shell 12 can be of any configuration and can have any type
of
known closure mechanism. Examples include gusseted and un-gusseted pillow
cases,
zippers, Velcro, overlapping fabric panels, or other closures 20. Many
different designs
are known for pillow cases, all of which may be used with the examples
described herein.
One example shown herein includes a shell 12 having a top layer or panel 16
and a
bottom layer or panel 18, with the top and bottom layers 16, 18 being sewn
together
.. around their outer periphery to form a hollow interior into which the
inserts 14 may be
positioned. A closure 20 is provided along part or all of the outer periphery.
The pillow case or shell opening 22 can be along the length, along the width,
along a combination of the length and the width, or around the entire or part
of the
periphery. The opening 22 can be any size and shape, as long as it permits
entry of the
inserts 14 into the shell 12. The shell 12 can be a stretchy or a non-stretchy
material.
The shell 12 may include holding members 24 such as inner panels 24 that serve
to help hold the various inserts 14 in position inside the shell 12. The
holding members
24 can extend across the width or length of the shell 12. They can be partial
panels, full
size panels, straps, or other mechanisms for holding the inserts 14 inside the
shell 12.
Any number of inner holding members 24 may be utilized. In addition to panels,
straps
may be provided that connect to the various inserts 14 with Velcro or other
attachment
means (not shown). In one example, the space between the holding member 24 may
be
equal to the thickness of the inserts 14 such that only certain sized inserts
14 will fit
within each space defined between the holding members 24. Velcro could be used
between the inserts 14 (not shown) to couple the inserts 14 together so they
don't move
relative to one another inside the shell 12. An additional sleeve could be
used for
coupling the inserts 14 together, with the sleeve being insertable into the
shell 12 (not
shown).
Fig. 1 depicts an example shell 12 that has a closure 20 on the end and along
the
side of the pillow 10. The pillow shell 12 depicted has a gusset 26 around the
pillow 10.
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The pillow shell 12 is substantially rectangular. While two different zipper
closures 20
are shown, typically one or the other will be used.
Fig. 2 depicts an example shell 12 that includes a top panel 16 and a bottom
panel
18, with the panels 16, 18 being sewn together around their outer periphery. A
seam 28
.. is provided around the outer periphery of the two panels 16, 18. A zipper
closure 20 is
shown positioned along one end of the pillow shell 12. It could alternatively
be
positioned along the length, along three of the four sides of the pillow 10,
or around the
entire perimeter of the pillow, if desired.
Fig. 3a depicts a hollow interior 30 of a pillow shell 12 that has gusseted
side
.. sections 26. This pillow shell 12 has a top panel 16, a bottom panel 18,
and side sections
26. The side sections 26 have a closure 20 in the form of a flap 32 and a
Velcro strip 34
that mates with a Velcro strip 34 that is provided on the top panel 16. Fig.
3a also
depicted internal panels 24 that serve as holding members and that extend
between the
gussets 26. The Velcro closure 20 may extend along the side of the shell 12 as
well as
.. along the end of the shell 12. Fig. 3b is similar to Fig. 3a, but does not
have a gusset and
instead only has a top panel 16 and a bottom panel 18 and a seam 28 sewn
between the
two. A similar Velcro closure 20 is provided. Variations of this closure 20
mechanism
will be readily recognized by those of skill in the art.
Fig. 4 is similar to Fig. 3b, but only includes a single inner holding member
24
.. that extends between the ends and/or sides of the hollow interior 30 of the
shell 12. Fig.
4 also shows a zipper closure 20 positioned along one end of the shell 12.
Referring to Figs. 5 and 6, the inserts 14 have substantially the same
peripheral
size as the shell 12, although this is not absolutely required. For example,
the inserts 14
could have a smaller peripheral size than the shell 12. Fig. 5 depicts an
example that is
.. based upon the weight of the inserts 14 and Fig. 6 depicts an example that
is based upon
the height of the inserts 14. Four inserts 14 are shown and all may be used
together, or
individual combinations or individual inserts 14 may be used inside the shell
12 to
provide a great amount of variability. The inserts 14 may be made of the same
or
different materials, as will be described in greater detail below. The inserts
14 may be
.. contoured, if desired. The inserts 14, when used in combinations, are
stacked on top of
each other and inserted into the shell 12 and the user can select how the
inserts 14 are
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positioned relative to one another, e.g., which insert 14 goes on top, bottom,
or center. If
one or more inner holding members are positioned inside the shell 12, the user
may insert
one or more of the inserts 14 between the holding members and the shell 12.
Fig. 5 shows inserts 14 based upon weight. The inserts 14 shown in Fig. 5
provide variability from 5 ounces weight to 65 ounces weight in 5 ounce
increments.
Insert A is 5 ounces, insert B is 10 ounces, insert C is 20 ounces, and insert
D is 30
ounces. The various combinations include:
5 ounces--5 ounce insert
10 ounces--10 ounce insert
ounces--5 ounce and 10 ounce inserts 14 together
ounces--20 ounce insert
ounces--5 ounce and 20 ounce insert together
ounces-20 ounce and 10 ounce inserts together or 30 ounce insert alone
15 35 ounces--5 ounce, 10 ounce, and 20 ounce inserts together or 30 ounce
and 5 ounce
inserts together
ounces-10 ounce, 20 ounce, and 30 ounce inserts together
ounces--5 ounce, 10 ounce, and 30 ounce inserts together
ounces-- 20 ounce and 30 ounce inserts together
20 55 ounces-5 ounce, 20 ounce, and 30 ounce inserts together
ounces--10 ounce, 20 ounce, and 30 ounce inserts together
ounces--5 ounce, 10 ounce, 20 ounce, and 30 ounce inserts together.
In general use, a pillow weight range of 25-45 ounces is suitable for a
stomach
25 sleeper. A pillow weight range of 35-55 ounces is suitable for a back
sleeper, and a
pillow weight range of 50-65 ounces is suitable for a side sleeper in the
context of a
queen size pillow 10. These weights will increase slightly in the context of
larger or
smaller pillows. The weights themselves are not critical and will vary based
upon the
size and shape of the pillow 10.
30 The example inserts 14 shown in Fig. 5 have a substantially rectangular
shape,
which when combined together or used alone will provide a substantially
rectangular
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shape for the pillow 10. Other shapes may alternatively be used. For example,
the insert
14 can be substantially rectangular in a center portion and then may taper to
a thinner
profile 36 at the ends of the inserts 14. This will provide a pillow 10
profile that is
thinner at the ends than in the center, which can provide variability for a
sleeper who
sleeps on both his or her stomach and side or back, since a stomach sleeper
generally
prefers a thinner pillow 10 and a side and back sleeper generally prefer a
thicker pillow
10. An example of this is shown in Fig. 8.
Fig. 6 depicts an example that is similar to that of Fig. 5, but the inserts
14 are
configured based upon pillow 10 height. Insert 1 is 1/2 inch thick, insert 2
is 1 inch thick,
insert 3 is 2 inches thick, and insert 4 is 3 inches thick. These inserts 14
provide 1/2 inch
variability from 1/2 inch to 6 1/2 inches of thickness. The example shell 12
shown includes
a shell 12 having a zipper along one side of the shell 12. Other closure 20
mechanisms
could be used. The various combinations include:
1/2 inch thick--1/2 inch insert
1 inch thick--1 inch insert
1 1/4 inch thick-- 1/2 inch insert and 1 inch insert together
2 inches thick--2 inch insert
2 1/4 inches thick--1/2 inch insert and 2 inch insert together
3 inches thick--3 inch insert
3 1/4 inches thick--1/2 inch insert and 3 inch insert together
4 inches thick--1 inch insert and 3 inch insert together
4 1/2 inches thick---1/2 inch insert, 1 inch insert, and 3 inch insert
together
5 inches thick--2 inch insert and 3 inch insert together
5 1/2 inches thick--1/2 inch insert, 2 inch insert, and 3 inch insert together
6 inches thick--1 inch insert, 2 inch insert, and 3 inch insert together
6 1/2 inches thick--1/2 inch insert, 1 inch insert, 2 inch insert, and 3 inch
insert together
Fig. 7 shows the example apparatus of Fig. 5 with all four inserts 14 inserted
into
the shell 12 and with the lowest weight insert 14a being positioned on top and
the highest
weight insert 14d being positioned on the bottom. As discussed above, other
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arrangements for the inserts 14 may be utilized. This may be particularly
desirable when
the inserts 14 are made of different materials. The user may prefer to have a
cotton fiber
fill as the top insert 14 during the summer and a memory foam insert 14 as the
top insert
14 during the winter, for example.
Fig. 8 shows an example apparatus of Fig. 5 with all four inserts 14 inserted
into
the shell 12, but with each of the inserts 14 being contoured so that they
form a curved
upper surface to the pillow 10. While all of the inserts 14 are shown as being
contoured,
if desired, only the top insert 14 could be provided with a contour, for
example. Both
Figs. 7 and 8 include a hollow shell 12 that does not have any holding members
24.
Figs. 9-15 show a variety of examples where one or more holding member 24 is
positioned inside the hollow interior 30 of the shell 12. While the holding
member 24
shown is an inner panel that extends lengthwise, any type of holding member 24
could be
substituted for the holding member 24 shown. The holding member 24 could
extend
widthwise as well. Fig. 9 shows an example pillow 10 like that of Fig. 5 with
two inserts
14 positioned inside the shell 12. The shell 12 includes two holding members
24, so one
of the holding members 24 is positioned between the inserts 14 and the other
holding
member 24 is positioned between the top panel 16 of the shell 12 and the top
insert.
Fig. 10 depicts a shell 12 having two inner holding members 24 and three
inserts
14. An first insert 14 is positioned between the top panel 16 of the shell 12
and the top
holding member 24. A second insert 14 is positioned between the two holding
members
24, and a third insert 14 is positioned between the bottom panel 18 of the
shell 12 and the
lower holding member 24.
Fig. 11 depicts a shell 12 having one inner holding member 24 and a single
insert.
The insert 14 is shown positioned between the holding member 24 and the bottom
panel,
but could be positioned between the top panel 16 and the holding member 24.
Fig. 12 depicts a shell 12 having one inner holding member 24 and two inserts
14.
The top insert 14 is positioned between the top panel 16 and the holding
member 24 and
the bottom insert 14 is positioned between the holding member 24 and the
bottom panel
18 of the shell 12. If desired, both inserts 14 could be positioned between
the top panel
16 and the holding member 24.
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Fig. 13 depicts a shell 12 having three inner holding members 24 and four
inserts
14. An insert 14 is positioned between each of the holding members 24 and
between the
top panel 16 of the shell 12 and the holding member 24 and the bottom panel 18
of the
shell 12 and the holding member 24. In this example, the spaces provided are
sized to
.. accept only the sizes of inserts 14 shown, but could be size to accept any
size insert, if
desired.
Fig. 14 depicts a shell 12 having two inner holding members 24 and four
inserts
14. Two of the inserts 14 are positioned between the holding members 24. One
of the
inserts 14 is positioned between the top panel 16 and the top holding member
24. The
other insert 14 is positioned between the bottom panel 18 and the lower
holding member
24.
Fig. 15 depicts the example shown in Fig. 6 as including two inserts 14 and no
holding members 24 positioned inside the shell 12. The 3 inch insert 14 is
positioned on
top of and adjacent the 1 inch insert 14 to provide a 4 inch tall pillow 10.
A variety of examples are depicted in Figs. 16-28 showing all possible
combinations when four inserts 14 are utilized. These combinations are
identified in the
chart shown in Fig. 46 for the example of Fig. 5. It should be noted that
while 5, 10, 20,
and 30 ounces have been selected for the example shown in Fig. 5 herein,
different
weights could alternatively be used. For example, 3, 6, 12, and 24 ounces
could be used.
In addition, more than four inserts 14 could be used, or less than four
inserts 14 could be
used. The examples described above could also work, with less adjustability
with 10, 20,
and 30 ounce inserts 14, or with 1 inch, 2 inch, and 3 inch inserts 14, for
example. An
example of a pillow 10 having five inserts 14 could include 3, 6, 12, 24 and
48 ounces,
for example. Or instead of having a 48 ounce insert, a 16 ounce insert 14
could be
provided. Another example would include a combination of 2, 4, 8, 16, and 24
ounce
inserts 14. A pillow 10 having these inserts 14 would provide adjustability
from 2 to 54
ounces in 2 ounce increments.
In some examples, two of the same size insert 14 could be included, such as
two
12 oz. or 8 ounce inserts 14. The inserts 14 should provide the user with the
opportunity
to increase from a minimum characteristic or amount to a maximum
characteristic or
amount in equal increments. As is evident, any number of variations are
possible.
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Figs. 29-32 depict a variety of examples of how inner holding members 24 can
be
attached to the interior of the pillow shell 12, as well as different
techniques for providing
an opening 22 in the shell 12. Fig. 29 shows a longitudinally extending single
panel 24
with an opening 22 that is provided on three of the four sides of the pillow
10. A zipper
closure 20 is used to close the opening 22 in the shell 12. Fig. 30 shows two
longitudinally extending straps 24 with an opening 22 that is provided on
three of the
four sides of the shell 12. Velcro fasteners 34 are provided in order to close
the shell 12.
Fig. 31 depicts a widthwise panel 24 extending inside the pillow opening 22.
The
opening 22 is provided on three of the four sides. A closure 20 mechanism is
not show.
Any type of closure 20 may be used. Fig. 32 is similar to Figs. 31 and 29, but
depicts a
longitudinal panel 24 that extends substantially across the width of the
opening 22.
Again, any type of closures 20 can be used. Zipper and Velcro have already
been
discussed. Alternatives may include buttons or other mechanical fasteners,
such as hook
and eye fasteners, among other known fasteners.
Fig. 44 shows an alternative example pillow 10 that utilizes a sheet of
treated
material 40 positioned between the inserts 14 of the pillow 10. The treated
material 40
may be a scented material that is used for pleasure. It could be a medicated
material that
is used in the case that the user has a cold in order to help them breather
better. Any
number of different types of treated materials 40 may be used. The sheet of
treated
material 40 is shown as having the same approximate size as the insert 14, but
it could be
smaller, larger, or could be a partial sheet with openings in the sheet 40
(not shown).
Fig. 45 is similar to Fig. 44, but depicts the treated sheet 40 positioned
between
the top panel 16 of the shell 12 and the upper insert 14a. Fig. 45 also
depicts an
alternative example pillow shell 12 that is chemically treated 42. The pillow
shell 12
.. could be chemically treated with a material 42 that helps improve health
and wellness, or
helps improve one's body. For example, the pillow shell 12 could be chemically
treated
with a material 42 that improve the function of the metabolism, or helps to
reduce
cellulite. Any type of performance enhancing chemical could be applied to the
pillow 10.
Alternatively, this type of performance enhancing chemical could also be
applied to
sheets or other bedding (not shown). For example, -diet" sheets could be
provided that
help a user to lose weight by boosting metabolism or other means, or that help
to reduce
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cellulite could be used. In addition, these sheets, could also be scented in
order to cover
up any chemical smell. In addition to bedding, clothing (not shown) could be
coated in
this manner For example, yoga pants could be chemically treated to help reduce
cellulite
or to help a wearer in other known areas. Any type of chemical that can
permeate the
skin and be transmitted from a fabric to cause health benefits may be
utilized.
The pillows 10 anticipated for use with the invention are any type of sleeping
pillow 10, including, but not limited, to standard, queen, and king size. The
ounces may
be varied based upon the size of the pillow 10, with the ounce designation
described
above for use with the queen size pillow 10.
The shell 12 may be made of any known type of fabric, including cotton,
polyester, bamboo rayon, tencel, lyocell, rayon, or any other know fabric of
combinations
of material. The shell 12 could be quilted, if desired. The shell 12 could
include a fiber
layer to provide some thickness to the cover. One or both sides of the shell
12 may be
quilted or include a fiber or other type of fill layer. When quilted or
enclosing a fiber or
fill layer, the shell 12 may include an inner shell layer and an outer shell
layer (not
shown).
The inserts 14 may be made of any known type of material. The insert 14 may
also be covered in a shell 12 or, in some cases, may not need a shell 12. Any
type of
fiber, foam, natural materials, or other materials may be used in the inserts
14. It is
known that some materials react to temperature, such as body heat. These types
of
materials may be used. Some materials may feel cooler or warmer to the skin of
the user
and the examples above anticipate use of these materials. Materials can be
used in
combination, such as fibers can be used together in inserts 14 with foam, for
example.
The apparatus may be sold as a kit (shown best in Figs. 5 and 6) with a single
type
of material for each of the inserts 14, with replacement inserts 14 being sold
as individual
replacements so that a user can select different materials for positioning
against their skin
once they determine the proper weight or height of the pillow 10 using the
initially
provided inserts 14. Alternatively, the inserts 14 can be sold on a piece by
piece basis so
that if a user is smaller, they may only need three inserts 14 instead of
four.
Alternatively, the apparatus may be sold as a kit with the inserts 14 being
made of
different materials. That way a user can select which type of insert material
they want
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positioned against their skin. Any number of alternatives are possible for
marketing
purposes. Different types of foams or fibers or other materials that may be
utilized are
described in the background section and herein may be utilized. While not
shown, a
separate storage bag can be provided for any inserts 14 that are not utilized.
Figs. 33-42 depict an alternative example according to the invention that
relates to
customizable mattresses 50. At least one mattress manufacturer currently sells
customizable mattresses by providing an air bladder that can be expanded to
the
appropriate thickness and firmness for a user by turning a dial and operating
a pump to
fill the bladder with more air. The user does not have the option of selecting
the type of
foam or fiber, or other materials that the mattress is made of, or of
selecting a type of
cover for the mattress. The instant example mattress 50 provides the user with
many
more options for mattress customization than are currently available. For
example, the
example mattress 50 allows the user to select the various portions of a
mattress to build
their own mattress 50 based upon their desires and needs.
Examples of portion of a mattress include, but are not limited to a base
portion 52
of the mattress 50, a topping portion 54 of the mattress 50, and a cover 56
for the mattress
50, all of which or some of which may be used. The example mattress 50 can be
rejuvenated at the whim of the user so that the user always feels like they
have a new bed,
or a mattress that never gets old.
Fig. 33 depicts an exterior of the example mattress 50 shown in combination
with
a foundation 58. As is evident, the example mattress 50 looks like a standard
mattress.
Fig. 34 depicts the general concept of having a mattress base portion 52
coupled
to a mattress topping portion 54 and covered by a mattress cover 56. The
mattress cover
56 may be removable from the mattress topping portion 54 and mattress base 52
so that it
can be laundered or replaced and can be attached to the mattress 50 using any
known
technique, such as using Velcro or snaps or other attachment techniques 60.
Fig. 34
shows the mattress cover 56 being attached to the bottom of the sides of the
mattress base
52 with Velcro 60. Other examples show the mattress cover 56 extending under
the
mattress base 52, being attached at the top edge of the mattress 50, or being
attached
along a portion of the sides of the mattress 50. The invention is not limited
to a means
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for attaching the mattress cover 56 or to a location for attaching the
mattress cover 56 to
the mattress 50.
The mattress base 52 can be any type of configuration. For example, it can
include springs 62 or be made of a foam material. The user may be permitted to
select
from different spring counts or sizes, or different types of foam, or other
types of
material.
The mattress topping portion 54 can be a variety of inserts 64, or a single
insert
64. The mattress topping portion 54 can be foam, fiber, beads, other material,
or
combinations of materials, such as a combination of foam chips and fiber, for
example.
Examples of types of materials that may be used alone or in combination are
described
herein and in the background section hereof.
As shown in the figures, a user can select between one or more inserts 64 for
use
with the mattress base 52. Fig. 35 depicts an example where two inserts 64 are
used
along with a base 52 that has springs 62. An outer padding 66 is provided
around the
base portion 52. The cover 56 has a stretchy inner periphery 68, much like a
fitted sheet,
so that the user can slide the cover 56 on and off without the need for
Velcro. Fig. 36
depicts an example with three inserts 64 and a foam base 52. The top insert
64a is
convoluted foam. The cover 56 extends around the top and sides and under the
mattress
base 52 and is coupled to the base with Velcro or another fastener 62.
Fig. 37 has a padded cover 56, four inserts 64 and a foam base 52. The padding
70 of the cover 56 extends along the top and sides of the mattress 50. Fig. 38
has a
padded cover 56, a single insert 64 and a single base 52 of foam. The cover 56
has
padding 70 only on the top of the cover 56. In both Fig. 37 and 38, the cover
56 is
coupled to the mattress base 52 via Velcro 62.
Fig. 39 depicts an alternative example where the mattress 50 includes a liner
72
that surrounds the mattress topping portion 54. The liner 72 may be attached
to the
mattress base 52 in any known manner and has a size sufficient to hold any
number of
inserts 64. The mattress cover 56 extends over the liner 72 and at least part
of the
mattress base 52 to provide additional protection and support to the inserts
64.
Fig. 40 depicts an alternative example mattress 50 that has a fixed base 74
and an
open mattress topping portion 54 that can accommodate any number of different
inserts
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64. In this example, the top of the mattress topping 54 has a removable cover
that is
connected to the top of the mattress topping portion 54 with a zipper or other
known
closure 20. In this example, since multiple heights may be desired for the
mattress
topping portion 54, the sides of the mattress topping portion 54 include
cinching devices
76 that allow the mattress topping portion 54 to be reduced in height. This
can help to
prevent saggy sides on the mattress 50 when the inserts 64 utilized do not
fill up the
interior of the mattress 50. The mattress cover 56 in this example is
adjustable in height
in order to allow a user to vary the height of the mattress 50 based upon the
number of
inserts chosen. Other known techniques for cinching may be utilized, if
desired. Other
.. closures 60 for the top portion 78 may be desired. In this example, a
mattress cover 56 is
not shown, but could be used in addition to the mattress topping portion 54
and mattress
base 52, if desired. Or the mattress topping portion 54 could serve as the
mattress cover
56. The mattress topping portion 54 could be coupled to the base 76 in any
known
manner. For example, the mattress topping portion 54 can sit freely on the
base 76, be
coupled to the base by Velcro or other known means of attachment 60, or could
be sewn
to the mattress base 52. When positioned on all the surfaces of the cover 78,
the cover 78
will also provide a padded feel to the sides of the mattress 50.
The mattress cover 56 is preferably removable and replaceable. This allows the
user to periodically replace the cover 56 or to launder the cover, as desired.
This also
provides the user with different options based upon the season. Perhaps a user
will prefer
a different type of fabric for the cover in the summer versus winter months.
The example
mattress 50 provides the user with options not previously provided to a user.
The same
can be said for the inserts 64 that are positioned under the cover 56.
Different types of
materials may be preferred in the summer compared to winter months. In this
case, the
user could easily reconfigure the layers of the mattress 50 so that certain
layers were
closer to the user's skin during summer months. Then these layers could be
positioned
lower inside the mattress topping portion 54 during winter months and other
insert could
be raised higher during winter months, providing the user with many different
options in
terms of the overall feel of the mattress 50.
Fig. 41 depicts an alternative example mattress 50 where side portions 80 of
the
mattress 50 are included to surround the mattress base 52 and mattress topping
portion
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54. The side portions 80 may be padded and may be free standing, with the
mattress base
52 and mattress topping portion 54 being positioned inside the side portions
80, or with
the side portions 80 being mechanically connected to the base 52 and mattress
topping
portion 54 via Velcro or other known attachment mechanism 60. In this example,
the top
cover 56 is removably coupled to the side portions 80 around the periphery of
the top
cover 56 and may be padded.
Fig. 42 depicts an alternative example mattress 50 where no separate base is
provided. In this example, the mattress 50 is made up of a plurality of
different inserts 64
that seat inside an enclosure 82. The enclosure 82 may have free standing
sides that are
padded or unpadded. The inserts 64 seat inside the enclosure 82. A top cover
56 may be
positioned over the enclosure 82 and be removable. The top cover 56 may have
sides
that extend along at least part or all of the sides of the enclosure 82.
Fig. 43 depicts an alternative example mattress 50 like that above, but also
incorporating a scented liner 84 that is removable and replaceable. As with
the liner
described above in connection with pillows 10, the liner 84 may be scented or
medicated
or otherwise chemically treated. If desired, the cover 56 can be chemically
treated with
performance enhancing chemicals.
In addition, the example customizable mattress 50 is renewable. A user can
easily
and inexpensively replace inserts 64 or the mattress cover 56 while
maintaining the base
.. portion 52. As mattresses wear, foam tends to sag and covers get stained or
frayed. The
example mattress 50 allows a user to replace worn parts while maintaining
existing parts
without having to dispose of an entire mattress 50, which ultimately ends up
in a landfill.
Therefore, the example mattress 50 provides a "green" option to users.
The mattress base 52 can have any different types of foundation materials,
including springs, air, foam or the like. The springs 62 may be customizable,
such as
small springs, large springs, number of springs, and the like. The base 52 can
have
different thicknesses, if desired, to allow a user to customize the overall
height using
adjustments to the base.
The base 52 may be 4-5 inches thick and the mattress topping portion 54 could
be
6-8 inches thick. Other thicknesses for the components may alternatively be
used. For
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example, the base 52 could be thicker than the topping portion 54, or the base
52 could be
thinner than the topping portion 54.
All of the above example mattresses 50 should have proper side support so that
the mattress 50 doesn't roll over at the edges (much like the case with
waterbeds). To the
extent this is not taught in the above disclosure, it is understood that
additional side
support may be needed and could be provided by separate side portions or by
the types of
materials used.
Any different types of materials may be used with the example mattress 50
and/or
pillow 10 as described above and in the background section hereof. Examples of
different mattress materials and fabrics provided herein are non-limiting. It
is recognized
that many of the materials described herein could have applications in both
pillow 10 and
mattress 50 design. Thus, the disclosures herein that refer to one or the
other application
should not be limited to a particular application. It is anticipated that
there are many other
fabrics and materials that are available that may not be described in the
Attachments.
The fabric of the pillow 10 or mattress 50 may be durable and washable. It may
be a microfiber, such as tencel microfiber, cotton, cotton/polyester blend, or
other fabric
types, as described herein or known to those of skill in the art.
The pillow 10 and mattress 50 inserts can have the same or different
firmnesses or
densities. The user can select the type of firmness desired by selecting
different inserts or
a different mattress base 52, in the case of mattresses.
Types of materials that may be used in the pillow 10 or mattress 50 inserts
include, but are not limited to: Viscoelastic foam, including granulated and
shredded
foam or layers; Recycled, virgin, organic, or scrap materials; cotton;
polyester; cotton
blends; polystyrene balls; fillers; polystyrene balls combined with filler;
granulated
highly elastic HE foam; a single or multiple fillers; memory foam; latex foam;
geo-foam;
other foams; chip foam; buckwheat; fiber; short staple fiber; memory fiber;
thermally
responsive materials; foam with gels, among combinations of the above or the
like, as
known by those of skill in the art. Organic materials can be used, if desired.
The example pillow 10 described above is customizable for any size sleeper and
any type of sleeper. The pillow 10 can be used by a child with appropriate
height based
upon their sleeping style, or by a large-framed adult. A 65 ounce pillow 10
will
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accommodate a large male with 5-6" shoulder to head measurement. If needed the
pillow
could be expanded beyond 65 ounces or 6 1/2 inches by adding an additional
insert and
selling a larger shell 12. The pillow inserts have been shown as being of a
single shape,
but other shapes may also be included in the invention. For example, a shape
that is
5 thicker in the center or at the ends may be desired. A specialty insert
could be provided
for this purpose. Other shapes, beyond those shown in the drawings are
contemplated for
sale either as part of the four inserts or as specialty inserts.
While not shown, any of the inserts could be contoured. One of the four
inserts
could be contoured while the others are not. Any combination of contoured and
non-
10 contoured inserts may be utilized.
A customizable pillow 10 includes a first insert 14, a second insert 14, and a
third
insert 14, and an outer shell 12. The first insert 14 represents a maximum
amount. The
second insert 14 represents a first intermediate amount that is not equal to a
minimum
amount or the maximum amount. The third insert 14 represents a third amount
that is
lower than the first intermediate amount, and one of the inserts 14 has a
minimum
amount. The outer shell 12 has an opening for receiving one or more of the
inserts 14.
The combination of inserts 14 provides adjustability in equal increments from
the
minimum amount to a combined amount equal to the sum of the minimum amount,
the
maximum amount, and any intermediate amounts, with scaled adjustability based
upon
different desired sizes of pillows 10, wherein one or more of the inserts 14
may be used at
a given time by a user.
The customizable pillow 10 may also include a fourth insert 14 for insertion
into
the outer shell 12. In this case, the third insert 14 is an intermediate
amount insert 14
having an amount that is not equal to the minimum amount, the maximum amount,
or the
first intermediate amount, and the fourth insert 14 has the minimum amount.
The inserts
14 may be as follows: the first insert 14 is a 30 ounce insert, the second
insert 14 is a 20
ounce insert, and the third insert 14 is a 10 ounce insert; or the first
insert 14 is a 20
ounce insert, the second insert 14 is a 10 ounce insert, and the third insert
14 is a 5 ounce
insert; or the first insert 14 is 3 inches thick, the second insert 14 is 2
inches thick, and the
third insert 14 is 1 inch thick; or the first insert 14 is 2 inches thick, the
second insert 14
is 1 inch thick, and the third insert 14 is 1/2 inch thick.
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The first insert 14 may be a 30 ounce insert, the second insert 14 may be a 20
ounce insert, the third insert 14 may be a 10 ounce insert, and the fourth
insert 14 may be
a 5 ounce insert. Alternatively, the first insert 14 may be 3 inches thick,
the second insert
14 may be 2 inches thick, the third insert 14 may be 1 inch thick, and the
fourth insert 14
may be 1/2 inch thick.
The outer shell 12 of the pillow 10 may include one or more holding members 24
that extend across at least one of the width or length of the shell 12 for
receiving one or
more of the first, second, third, or fourth inserts 14. The holding members 24
may be
straps, panels, or baffles, or the like. The outer shell 12 may include a
closure for closing
the opening of the outer shell 12 after the inserts 14 are positioned inside
the shell 12, and
the opening is positioned along one or more of the length side of the pillow
10 or the
width side of the pillow 10. The closures 20 may be a zipper, Velcro, or the
like.
The first, second, and third inserts 14 may have substantially the same
overall
profile shape, but with different weights and/or thicknesses. The first,
second, and third
inserts 14 may have a substantially rectangular profile shape and/or tapered
ends. The
pillow 10 may range in weight from a minimum of about 5 ounces to a maximum of
about 65 ounces, or the pillow 10 may range in thickness from a minimum
thickness of
about 1/2 inch to a maximum thickness of about 6.5 inches. The pillow 10 may
also
include a scented, removable sheet positioned between one of the outer shell
12, the first
insert 14, the second insert 14, and the third insert 14.
A method for customizing a pillow 10 includes providing a plurality of inserts
14
and an outer shell 12, as discussed above, selecting one or more of the
inserts 14 based
upon the sleep needs of the user, positioning the one or more inserts 14
inside the shell
12, and closing the shell 12.
A customizable mattress 50 may include a base portion 52, a topping portion 54
having one or more inserts 14 of different thickness and/or material, and a
cover layer 56.
Each of the base portion 52, the topping portion 54, the one or more inserts
14, and the
cover layer 56 are independently selectable by a user for positioning under
the cover
layer 56.
The inserts 14 may be removable, repositionable, independently selectable, and
replaceable. The cover layer 56 may be removable and replaceable. The topping
portion
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54 may be coupled to the base portion 52 and the cover layer 56 may be coupled
to one
of the base portion 52 or the topping portion 54. The base portion 52 may
include a
plurality of springs 62, and the inserts 14 may include one or more of fiber,
foam, natural
fillers, organic fillers, or combinations thereof.
A customizable mattress 50 may include a closeable shell having sides, a
plurality
of inserts 14 for positioning inside the shell, and support means 64, 80
positioned inside
the shell 12 for supporting the sides of the shell. The support means 64, 80
may be
provided by the inserts 64, by an independent supporting device 80 positioned
around the
inserts 14, or by a combination of both.
The mattress 50 may also include a cover member 56, which may or may not be
provided by the closeable shell 12. The support means 64, 80 may include side
portions
that are attachable to the closeable shell 12, and may further comprise a base
portion 52
coupled to the closeable shell 12. The cover member 56 may include an
attachment
feature 60 for coupling the cover member to the closable shell 12.
The term "substantially," if used herein, is a term of estimation.
While various features are presented above, it should be understood that the
features may be used singly or in any combination thereof. Further, it should
be
understood that variations and modifications may occur to those skilled in the
art to
which the claimed examples pertain. The examples described herein are
exemplary. The
disclosure may enable those skilled in the art to make and use alternative
designs having
alternative elements that likewise correspond to the elements recited in the
claims. The
intended scope may thus include other examples that do not differ or that
insubstantially
differ from the literal language of the claims. The scope of the disclosure is
accordingly
defined as set forth in the appended claims.
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