BED COVERING AND BED COVERING COUPLE, SYSTEM AND METHOD

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure generally pertain to bedding that is removably secured to a bed. Aspects of the present disclosure are more specifically directed toward a system and method for bed covering and a breakaway bed covering couple. Other embodiments may include fitted sheets.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Technical Field

The present disclosure generally pertains to bedding, and is more particularly directed towards bedding that is removably secured to a bed.

Related Art

Generally, bedding, or bed covering, includes the materials worn or otherwise laid above the mattress of a bed for hygiene, warmth, protection of the mattress, decorative effect, etc. It is the removable and washable portion of a sleeping environment. For example, a set of bedding generally consists of at least some combination of a flat or fitted bed sheet that covers the mattress; a flat top sheet; either a blanket, a quilt, or a duvet; and a number of pillows with pillowcases, also referred to as pillow shams. Sometimes a duvet cover is to be used in addition to or instead of the top sheet.

Typically, in order to inhibit bedding from dislocation or inadvertent removal, the bedding includes elastic fitted to two or four sides. In particular, fitted sheets around a mattress have become commonplace in the art. In order to keep the fitted sheet on the mattress, especially with thicker mattresses and adjustable beds, elastic all around the edge of the fitted sheet and corner elastic have become more commonplace. With use, the corner elastic can break where the elastic is sewn to the sheet, i.e., where the most tension is placed. This may particularly be the case where the elastic has been washed over many cycles. Additionally, the corner elastic may detach from the fitted sheet or tear the fitted sheet itself, either the sheet fabric or other material the corner elastic is affixed to. Prior methods for attaching the corner elastic to the fitted sheet, e.g., reinforced stitching, have aimed to make the chance of breakage less likely. Also, folding fitted sheets can be cumbersome and even time consuming.

A preferred solution would allow the corner elastic to break free, rather than break the corner elastic or fitted sheet. Such a breakage requires a repair or replacement of the entire sheet, which can be costly due to labor, replacement costs, shipping, customer satisfaction and goodwill, and time wasted. If a shorter corner diagonal elastic is used, then it may create a tighter fit, but be more susceptible to breakage. If a longer corner diagonal elastic is used, then it will create a loose fit, but be less susceptible to breakage. A solution is needed to manage this trade-off based on an individual user's needs instead of one-size-fits-all.

Additionally, one solution is clip-on elastic, either point-to-point or all around the circumference of the fitted sheet, that can be retroactively installed on any fitted sheet. Using removable clips may require lifting the mattress after each washing for reinstallation of the clips. Again, current solutions are often cumbersome, not desirable in general, and especially not feasible for older people. A solution is needed that makes installation less frequent and less cumbersome.

Some solutions use elastic on the outside of the fitted sheet to keep it very snug on the mattress, but the elastic around the mattress may be unattractive, undesirable, and similarly difficult to install.

In addition, there are many different depth mattresses, materials, and styles. In particular, this can lead to underperformance of “one-size-fits-all” solutions. For example, thinner mattresses may result in loose sheets and bunched up fabric on the top of the mattress. An ideal solution would allow for a snug fit across a larger range of depths and types of mattresses, without having to create many different sizes of fitted sheets, which can be costly and logistically difficult to manufacture.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,856,985 to Rensink, et al. on Oct. 14, 2014, shows Connector system for mattress. The connector system includes at least one mattress connector that is coupled to a mattress. The mattress connectors are coupled at the head end and at the foot end of the mattress. A topper connector is coupled to a topper at a head end and a foot end of the topper. A plurality of straps are employed to couple the mattress to the topper, with the straps being coupled to the mattress connectors and the proper connectors.

The present disclosure is directed toward overcoming known problems and problems discovered by the inventor.

SUMMARY

Aspects of the present disclosure generally pertain to bedding that is removably secured to a bed. Aspects of the present disclosure are more specifically directed toward a system and method for bed covering and a breakaway bed covering couple. Other embodiments may include fitted sheets.

A system for coupling a bed covering to a bed is disclosed herein. The system includes a bed covering anchor and a bed covering couple. The bed covering anchor includes a plurality of couple connectors and a means to anchor said couple connectors to the bed. The bed covering couple includes a plurality of bed covering interfaces and a plurality of anchor breakaways affixed to at least one bed covering interface, with each bed covering interface configured to attach to the bed covering, and each anchor breakaway configured to removably couple with a respective couple connector of the bed covering anchor, and to manually decouple from said respective couple connector.

According to one embodiment a bed covering attachment system for a bed is disclosed herein. The bed covering attachment system includes a first bed covering interface configured to attach to a bed covering at a first location proximate a periphery of the bed covering, a first anchor breakaway affixed to the first bed covering interface, a second bed covering interface configured to attach to the bed covering at a second location proximate the periphery of the bed covering, a second anchor breakaway affixed to the second bed covering interface, and a bed covering anchor having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, where the bed covering anchor is configured to couple to the first anchor breakaway at the first end, extend underneath a portion of the bed, and to couple to the second anchor breakaway at the second end.

According to another embodiment a bed covering for a bed is disclosed herein. The bed covering includes a fabric panel configured to rest against the mattress, a plurality of anchor breakaways affixed to the fabric panel proximate a periphery of the fabric panel, and a first anchor strap having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, where the first anchor strap is configured to repeatedly couple/decouple at the first end to a first anchor breakaway of the plurality of anchor breakaways, extend underneath a portion of the bed, and to repeatedly couple/decouple at the second end to a second anchor breakaway of the plurality of anchor breakaways.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a bottom view of a mattress “wearing” a fitted sheet, showing a bed covering and bed covering couple, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a fitted sheet, showing a bed covering and bed covering couple, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a fitted sheet, showing a bed covering and bed covering couple, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4A is a bottom view of the mattress “wearing” a fitted sheet, showing a bed covering and bed covering couple, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4B is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a fitted sheet, showing a bed covering and bed covering couple, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4C is a bottom view of a loose bedding (e.g., flat sheet), showing a bed covering and bed covering couple, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5A is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a fitted sheet, showing a bed covering and bed covering couple, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5B is a detail view of the bed covering couple of FIG. 5A in its closed state.

FIG. 5C shows the bed covering couple of FIG. 5B in its released state.

FIG. 6 is a top view of a mattress base covered by a mattress grip pad, showing a bed covering anchor, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a top view of the mattress base covered by a bed base cover, showing a bed covering anchor, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8A is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a fitted sheet, showing a bed covering, a bed covering couple, and a self-attached anchor, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8B is a detail view of the self-attached anchor of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 9A is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a fitted sheet, showing a bed covering, a bed covering couple, and a self-attached anchor, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9B is a detail view of a portion of the self-attached anchor of FIG. 9A.

FIG. 9C is a detail view of a portion of the self-attached anchor of FIG. 9A, according to an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9D is a detail view of a portion of the self-attached anchor of FIG. 9A, according to another alternate embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9E is a detail view of a portion of the self-attached anchor of FIG. 9A, according to yet another alternate embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10A is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a fitted sheet, showing a bed covering, a bed covering couple, and a self-attached anchor, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10B is a detail view of a portion of the self-attached anchor of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 10C is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a fitted sheet, showing a bed covering, a bed covering couple, and a self-attached anchor, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11A is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a bedding, showing a bed covering, a bed covering couple, and a self-attached anchor, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11B is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a bedding, showing a bed covering, a bed covering couple, and a self-attached anchor, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11C is a detail view of a portion of a bed covering couple and a self-attached anchor, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12A is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a bedding, showing a bed covering, a bed covering couple, and a self-attached anchor, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12B is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a bedding, showing a bed covering, a bed covering couple, and a self-attached anchor, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12C is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a bedding, showing a bed covering, a bed covering couple, and a self-attached anchor, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12D is a detail view of a portion of a bed covering couple, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12E is a detail view of a portion of a bed covering couple, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13A is a bottom view of a pillow wearing a pillow case, showing a bed covering couple, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13B is a bottom view of a pillow wearing a pillow case, showing a bed covering couple, and a self-attached anchor, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14A is a bottom view of a loose bedding (e.g., flat sheet), showing a bed covering and a bed covering couple, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14B is a bottom view of a loose bedding (e.g., flat sheet), showing a bed covering, a bed covering couple, and a self-attached anchor, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14C is a bottom view of a loose bedding (e.g., flat sheet), showing a bed covering, a bed covering couple, and a bed covering anchor, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 15A is a top view of a couplable bedding, showing a loose bedding (e.g., flat sheet) and a bedding couple, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 15B is a bottom view of a first couplable bedding coupled to a second couple bedding, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 is a top view of a base tie, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 17A is a top view of a loopable base tie in an extended state, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 17B is a top view of the loopable base tie of FIG. 17A in a looped state.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Aspects of the present disclosure generally pertain to bedding that is removably secured to a bed. Aspects of the present disclosure are more specifically directed toward a system and method for bed covering and a breakaway bed covering couple. Other embodiments may include fitted sheets, flat sheets, and/or combinations thereof.

The present disclosure may provide for using some or all of the connections described herein to address each user's individual challenges and preferred fit of bedding. For example, a common issue is ensuring a fitted sheet (or any mattress covering) is pulled tightly over the corners and sides of a mattress. Further, the present disclosure may provide for more efficient cleaning of bedding, increased bedding life (e.g., removal of elastic during wash), and ease of folding (e.g., mattress covering sheets), which may be particularly beneficial in the hospitality industry when many cycles are common and faster turnover is desirable.

With the present disclosure, the end user may choose which connections to use, in order to minimize installation time and maximize comfort for his particular application. In contrast, most current attachment methods are for the fitted sheet only. A method for connecting various bedding pieces (sheets, comforters, blankets, pillows) as disclosed would thus be very desirable. Other known solutions merely address keeping a comforter in place or attaching a duvet cover to a flat sheet; however, these too merely amount to a one-off attachment (e.g., single-application). Disclosed herein is a far more desirable solution that can address a one-off attachment, but also accommodate multiple attachments.

Unlike prior single-application bedding products, here connection points may be used to achieve other objectives, such as a snug fit on top of mattress pieces (including duvets, comforters, blankets, weighted blankets, compression/sensory wraps), and may simplify the bed-making process versus other current solutions. For example, a comforter/duvet/blanket can be attached to the fitted coverings so it cannot slip off the bed, stays in place and/or creates a snug and comforting sleeping environment. Similarly, a pillow can be attached to a fitted covering so that it does not fall off the bed, particularly when used on an adjustable bed or hospital bed. Further, the present disclosure may provide for improved performance and ease of cleaning.

Weighted blankets and compression products provide sensory compression and a sense of calm for therapeutic purposes. Once a sheet with snaps has been installed on the mattress, such as either a fitted sheet or mattress cover, then a top of mattress sheet can be installed and attached to the mattress with the desired tightness and compression for preference, safety, and needs. Further, different materials, such as spandex, can be used to further enhance the compression effect. Prior art bedding wraps fully around the bottom of the mattress, which may require difficult lifting of the mattress and does not allow for adjustment of the compression level. Here, in contrast, weight and compression can be adjusted to each person's desired effect.

Similarly, snaps may be installed directly on a mattress, or on pieces below the mattress, such as a mattress grip pad, bed skirt, or bed base cover. The placement of snaps on these below the mattress pieces provide a similar benefit as pieces installed on the mattress (such as a fitted sheet), but may also be used to connect the mattress to bedding or furnishings below the mattress.

To accomplish the desired effects, connection points utilizing snaps or another connection means can be installed on a variety of bedding products including fitted sheet, flat/top sheets, mattress covers, mattress pad, mattress topper, mattress, mattress grip pads, comforters, duvets, duvet covers, blankets, weighted blankets, runners, pillows, pillowcases, compression/sensory sheets/wraps/blanks, bed skirt, or bed base cover. The most common embodiments are described here, though the same configuration applies to any bedding product of a similar shape and nature.

Overall, a solution is provided herein to minimize the manufacturing cost to the extent possible, minimize costly damage and breakage, and allow for flexibility in usage. The disclosure can be used on a single piece of bedding, but also work in conjunction with multiple pieces.

FIG. 1 is a bottom view (i.e., looking upward) of a mattress “wearing” a fitted sheet, showing a bed covering and bed covering couple, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Here, the bed has tabs attached to its bottom. Also, for clarity, the bed will be used for reference using commonly understood directions: Top/Bottom, Head/Foot, Sides (e.g., left/right), Length (foot-to-head), Width (side-to-side), and Height (bottom-to-top). Further, directional references of the bed coverings should be understood to be while the bed coverings are worn by the bed/mattress.

As shown, a bed covering and bed covering couple system (“system”) 100 may include a bed covering 200, a bed covering couple 300 (FIG. 2), and a bed covering anchor 400. The bed covering couple 300 may be configured to removably couple with the bed covering anchor 400, while the bed covering anchor 400 may be configured to anchor the bed covering couple 300 to the bed (directly or indirectly) using plurality of couple connectors 401 a variety of anchoring means 403, as discussed further below. As above, the bed covering 200 is broadly defined and may include a variety of bedding/bedding products.

For ease of illustration, the bedding will generally be described as bed sheets (flat and fitted). However, it is understood that a variety of bedding/bedding products are contemplated by the illustrated examples and embodiments. Similarly, for reference, a bed will generally be described as a conventional, quadrilateral mattress (e.g., as viewed from above, and having a head/foot—with length therebetween, left side/right side—with width therebetween, and top/bottom—with height therebetween). However, it is understood that a variety of beds (with or without separate bed furniture) are contemplated and may benefit from the teachings herein.

According to one embodiment and as illustrated, the bed covering couple 300 may be affixed to the bed covering 200 and the bed covering anchor 400 may be affixed directly to a mattress 10. In particular, the bed covering couple 300 and the bed covering anchor 400 may form mating components of a conventional fastener that is separable upon application of a manual force. For example and as shown, the bed covering couple 300 may include a male half of a snap connector, sewn into the periphery of the sheet, and the bed covering anchor 400 may include female half of the snap connector, similarly sewn into fabric tabs attached to the bottom of the mattress 10 (bed mounts 410). Preferably, the bed covering 200 and the bed covering anchor 400 may include a plurality of snap fasteners.

In general, the manual force required to separate the bed covering couple 300 and the bed covering anchor 400 may set to separate/break away prior to damaging or otherwise separating the bed covering couple 300 from the bed covering 200, or the bed covering anchor 400 from the mattress. However, an even lesser threshold may be set, so as to reflect the needs of the user. Similarly, the orientation of the tabs, fastener halves, and even fastener type/connection method can be chosen based on desired requirements of the user. For example, alternate materials or other conventional fastening means may be appropriate, such as metal snap fasteners, plastic snap fasteners, plastic tabs, magnetic couples (FIG. 12E), hook and loop fasteners, variable/selectable strength fasteners, directional release fasteners, etc.

FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a fitted sheet, showing a bed covering and bed covering couple, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. As above, the system 100 for the mattress 10 may include the bed covering 200, the bed covering couple 300, and the bed covering anchor 400 (FIG. 1). Further, the bed covering couple 300 may be affixed to the bed covering 200 (e.g., integrated into, affixed indirectly, removably coupled, etc.). As shown, the bed covering 200 may be a standard fitted sheet.

According to the illustrated embodiment, the bed covering couple 300 may include a plurality of breakaway connectors integrated into the bed covering 200. In particular, the bed covering couple 300 may include a plurality of breakaway connectors (e.g., male/female plastic snap connector halves) affixed directly (e.g., sewn) to the bed covering 200 along a periphery of the otherwise standard fitted sheet. As discussed below, each connector couple may be positioned proximate bottom corners, bottom mid-lengths, and/or bottom mid-widths.

According to one embodiment, the bed covering 200 may be embodied as a variable-mattress-size fitted sheet. In particular, the fitted sheet may have sufficient side material or “height” and/or shaping to be worn on a variety of mattress heights/thicknesses. For example, as shown here, the side material of the bed covering 200 may be selected to be worn conventionally by a mattress having a first thickness/height (e.g., a standard mattress) while the bed covering couple 300 is distributed about the mattress' bottom (proximate its periphery), yet also worn by a mattress having a second thickness/height that is less than the first thickness/height (e.g., thin), with the resultant slack taken up by the bed covering anchor 400 (e.g., FIG. 1), or alternately, where the second thickness/height that is greater than the first thickness/height (e.g., thick), repositioning the bed covering couple 300 about the mattress' side, with the bed covering anchor 400 coupling about the mattress' side to hold the bed covering 200 in place. Beneficially, while the bed covering 200 may provide sufficient retention (without coupling the bed covering couple 300 to the bed covering anchor 400) when worn by standard sized mattresses, and yet may further provide at least similar or greater retention (with the bed covering couple 300 and the bed covering anchor 400 coupled together) when worn by mattresses that are thicker or thinner than standard sized mattresses.

FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a fitted sheet, showing a bed covering and bed covering couple, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. As above, the system 100 for the mattress 10 may include the bed covering 200, the bed covering couple 300, and the bed covering anchor 400 (FIG. 1). Also as above, the bed covering 200 may be a standard fitted sheet. Also as above, each connector couple may be positioned proximate bottom corners, bottom mid-lengths, and/or bottom mid-widths.

According to the illustrated embodiment, the bed covering couple 300 may include a plurality of breakaway connectors affixed indirectly to the bed covering 200. In particular, the bed covering couple 300 may include a plurality of breakaway connectors affixed to the sheet by an intermediate material such as a piece of elastic or other fabric. The intermediate material may be made up of a plurality of discrete pieces (e.g., connector patches), a single continuous member (e.g., connector strip), or a combination thereof. Further, the intermediate material may be coupled to, or otherwise positioned directly over, the fitted sheet's elastic or periphery. This embodiment may also allow for the intermediate piece only to be replaced or reaffixed when the bed covering couple 300 need to be fixed or changed, making repairs easier and more cost-effective.

FIG. 4A is a bottom view of the mattress “wearing” a fitted sheet, showing a bed covering and bed covering couple, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As above, the system 100 for the mattress 10 may include the bed covering 200, the bed covering couple 300, and the bed covering anchor 400 (FIG. 1). Also as above, the bed covering 200 may be a standard fitted sheet.

Also as above, the bed covering couple 300 may include a plurality of breakaway connectors affixed to the sheet by a plurality of discrete pieces (“tabs” 324) of an intermediate material such as elastic or other fabric. Here however, each tab may be configured to extend radially inward from the periphery of the bed covering 200 when worn (or outwardly from the sides when flat). In particular, each half connector of the bed covering couple 300 may be affixed to the sheet by an intermediate piece of elastic or other material (the tab) that extends beyond the periphery of the sheet. Further, the tab may be stitched and reinforced, as commonly known by those skilled in the art. Beneficially, the bed covering couple 300 may be easier to manipulate (e.g., couple/decouple) without the sheet backing, as here.

Alternative configurations, placements, and quantities may be used, such as in FIG. 4B. In particular, tabs with (or without) half connectors may be affixed about the sheet periphery (e.g., proximate corners, mid-widths, mid-lengths, and redundant positions). Further, the tabs may share the same radial length (as shown) or different radial lengths (e.g., to accommodate different mattresses). Finally, the tabs may number as many or as few as required/desired, and may be used as desired or required. This configuration may also be advantageous as the intermediate piece (tab) alone may be replaced or reaffixed if the snaps cause a tear in the fabric/material they are affixed to. making repairs easier and more cost-effective.

FIG. 4C is a bottom view of a loose bedding (e.g., bottom flat sheet), showing a bed covering and bed covering couple, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. As above, the system 100 for the mattress 10 (FIG. 1) may include the bed covering 200, the bed covering couple 300, and the bed covering anchor 400 (FIG. 1).

As shown here, the bed covering 200 may be a standard flat sheet. Further, and as above, the bed covering couple 300 may include a plurality of breakaway connectors affixed to the sheet by a plurality of tabs extend radially away from the periphery of the bed covering 200 (thus, radially outward when lying flat, and radially inward when worn and folded under the mattress 10). As with the fitted sheet embodiments above, each bed covering couple 300 may include connector halves configured to couple with a respective mating connector half that is part of the bed covering anchor 400. The bed covering anchor 400 may be fixed to the mattress 10 (as above) or otherwise (e.g., fixture attached, self-attached, etc.—as discussed further below). Further, the bed covering couples 300 and the bed covering anchor 400 may be configured to couple underneath the mattress 10, about the side of the mattress 10, above the mattress 10, or any combination thereof.

According to the illustrated embodiment, the bed covering 200 may be configured to cover or be “worn” by the user as well (as contrasted with merely being a bottom sheet configured to be worn by the mattress alone). In particular, the bed covering couple 300 may include a plurality of connectors positioned proximate to the periphery of the bed covering 200 in the foot portion of the bed covering 200 but without any extending beyond a middle area into the head portion of the bed covering 200. For example, the bed covering couple 300 may be excluded from a “head” or “torso” half of the bed (i.e., the area between the head of the bed and substantially midway between a head and a foot of the bed). Also for example, the bed covering couple 300 may be limited to a “leg” half of the bed (i.e., the area between the foot of the bed and substantially midway between a head and a foot of the bed).

According to one embodiment, the bed covering couple 300 may be limited to the two corners of the foot end of the bed covering 200. Alternately, the bed covering couple 300 may be excluded from the upper quarter, third, or half-length of the bed covering 200. Alternately, the bed covering couple 300 may be limited to the area in the bottom half, third, or quarter of the bed covering 200. In this way the bed covering 200 may remain in place or even snug when worn by the user.

According to one embodiment, the bed covering 200 may be made into a “shaped” or “semi-fitted” sheet. In particular, excess material 210 may be removed from the foot end corners of the otherwise rectangular (or square) sheet. For example, and as illustrated with dashed lines, two squares may be cut out at or otherwise vacated from each corner on the foot end (e.g., along the dashed lines). Beneficially, the cuts 212, 213 may be made to achieve semi-fitted corners at the base of the bed when the uncut portion is brought together (e.g., for easier bed-making). Further, the cut edges 212, 213 may be hemmed and cleaned, or sewn together to create 2 sewn, semi-fitted corners at the two foot/base corners of the sheet. Snaps may be placed on the various edge positions of the sheet, as with previous embodiments or on the inner part of the sheet. Further, the snaps may be positioned such that they line up with a fitted sheet, a mattress cover, or both.

According to one embodiment, the bed covering 200 may be configured for compression and sensory benefits. In particular, the bed covering 200, or portions thereof, may be made of an elastic material such as spandex, other material with some elasticity, and/or blended materials. Further, the bed covering 200 may be manufactured with elastic around its foot end periphery/edge to further help keep it tucked in, combining elements of a traditional flat sheet (head portion) and fitted sheet (foot portion). The same characteristics may be applied to other top of bedding pieces such as comforters/duvets, blankets, weighted blankets, and other bedding pieces to make a semi-fitted, attachable version.

FIG. 5A is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a fitted sheet, showing a bed covering and bed covering couple, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As above, the system 100 for the mattress 10 may include the bed covering 200, the bed covering couple 300, and the bed covering anchor 400 (FIG. 1). Also as above, the bed covering 200 may be a standard fitted sheet. Likewise, the bed covering couple 300 may include a plurality of breakaway connector halves affixed to the sheet and configured to removably couple with mating connector halves of the bed covering anchor 400.

According to one embodiment, and as illustrated, the bed covering couple 300, or portions thereof, may be removably attached to the bed covering 200. In particular, the bed covering couple 300 may be configured to clamp onto the bed covering couple 300. For example, the bed covering couple 300 may include one or more removable bed covering interfaces 326, such as clips or clamps attached to or otherwise coupled to the plurality of anchor breakaway/connector halves 310. Further, one or more removable bed covering interfaces 326 may be manually operable. According to one embodiment, each clip/clamp and connector half may be fixed to an extension piece such as the “tabs” 324 above. As shown, the snaps may thus be clipped on or otherwise attached to on any suitable sheet (e.g., flat, fitted, etc.). Importantly, in this embodiment each clip-on snap may be positioned and repositioned to align with many different positions, so as to align with its reciprocal bed covering anchor 400.

FIG. 5B is a detail view of the bed covering couple of FIG. 5A in its closed or clamped state. FIG. 5C shows the bed covering couple of FIG. 5B in its open or released state. As illustrated, the removeable bed covering interface 326 (embodied as a clip or other means) may be used to connect the bed covering couple 300 to the sheet. A small piece of elastic (or other piece of material) may then be affixed to the clip, such as tab 324. The anchor breakaway 310 (e.g., snap half) may then be affixed to the elastic (or other material). Other means of connecting the bed covering couple 300, and choice of fabric where the anchor breakaway 310 is affixed, should be well within the skill of those having ordinary skill in the art. Beneficially, such removable attachments may allow for use of the snaps and strap even if they are not pre-installed on the sheet, as well as for the addition of connection points where desired.

FIG. 6 is a top view (i.e., looking downward) of a mattress base covered by a mattress grip pad, showing a bed covering anchor, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As above, the bed covering anchor 400 may be anchored directly to the bed (e.g., mattress 10 (FIG. 1), bed frame, box spring, etc.). Alternately, the bed covering anchor 400 may be anchored or otherwise attached to a fixture other than the bed. According to one embodiment, anchoring means 403 may include an independent member (fixture 420) fixed or otherwise held in place, for example, by the weight of the mattress 10. While, here, the fixture 420 is illustrated with couple connectors 401 attached on opposing edges, asymmetrical attachment is contemplated as well, as the fixture 420 may be held in place merely by the weight of the mattress 10. This may be beneficial in applications where only one side is connected (e.g., where the bed against a wall).

According to one embodiment, and as shown, the bed covering anchor 400 may include a plurality of couple connectors 401 affixed to a mattress grip pad 422. In particular, the mattress grip pad 422 may be a sheet of material upon which the mattress 10 rests, and which includes at least one anchor point. Preferably, the mattress grip pad 422 may be a non-slip fabric to which one or more connector halves (couple connectors 401) are affixed. As above, the connector halves may be mounted on tabs 424, which are then affixed (e.g., reinforced sewn) to the sheet of material. Alternately, the mattress grip pad 422 may be embodied as, or otherwise incorporate, a discontinuous material, such as straps, links, mesh, and the like, which is then held in place under the weight or physical structure of the mattress 10.

As illustrated, the snaps (couple connectors 401) may be affixed to strategic locations about a periphery of the mattress grip pad 422 (e.g., at corners, longitudinal mid-points, lateral mid-points, etc.), or as otherwise desired. Further, it is understood, the couple connectors 401 of the bed covering anchor 400 may be positioned on the mattress grip pad 422 so as to mate with, or otherwise be in alignment with, the reciprocal connector halves (anchor breakaways 310) of the bed covering couple 300 (i.e., in any similar manner or pattern as shown above). Additionally, it may be useful to adjust the orientation of the tabs 424 by 180 degrees, for example, based on the application requirements.

Beneficially, when in use, the weight of both the mattress 10 and user helps keep the mattress grip pad 422 (and affixed couple connectors 401) in place. It is further understood, the mattress grip pad 422 may generally be sized approximately the full the width and length of any commercial mattress size. Alternately, the mattress grip pad 422 may be undersized or sized smaller (or oversized/larger, depending on the requirements) than one or all commercial mattress sizes, so as to fit non-standard sized mattresses and/or multiple sizes of mattresses.

FIG. 7 is a top view of the mattress base covered by a bed base cover, showing a bed covering anchor, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. As above, the bed covering anchor 400 may be attached to a fixture other than the bed, and the fixture may include an independent member held in place, for example, by the weight of the mattress.

As illustrated, the bed covering anchor 400 may include a bed skirt 425 (or bed base cover), whose center area is placed between the mattress and bed base (and the skirt area draping freely downward). Similar to a mattress grip pad 422 above, the connector halves (couple connectors 401) of the bed covering anchor 400 may be positioned and affixed around the center area of the bed skirt 425, in any desired orientation. In the case of a bed skirt 425, a decorative ruffle or other decoration is draped over the sides of the bed base. In the case of a bed base cover, however, the sides are fitted around the bed base, similar to a mattress cover on a mattress, and can also be fully enclosed or partially enclosed. Unlike the mattress grip pad above 422, the bed skirt 425 (or bed base cover) will typically be sized specifically for a given mattress.

According to one embodiment, the anchor points (couple connectors 401) may be built directly into a bed base or bed furniture, such as a bed base, adjustable bed base, bed platform, or platform bed (not shown), where the connector halves (couple connectors 401) of the bed covering anchor 400 may be similarly positioned over the top of the bed base or bed furniture—as shown with the bed skirt 425 or bed base cover. A benefit of built-in connection points on the bed base (or the furniture) itself is that straps may connect the bed base or furniture to the mattress 10 (or bed covering 200, such as a fitted sheet or mattress cover), in order to help keep the mattress 10 fixed on the bed base or bed furniture, and to prevent the mattress 10 from moving around.

The use of a base, such as a commonly used mattress cover (also known as a mattress protector), to keep the mattress clean as the mattress itself cannot easily be cleaned, can optimize the installation time and usefulness of the snaps. A fitted sheet 200 can then be installed on top of the mattress cover for a variety of objectives, such as keeping a tight fitted sheet, staying on a moving adjustable bed, and making the bed easily. Various bedding pieces can be then further attached as desired using stackable snaps (discussed below). Preferably, when the mattress cover is used as the anchor base (or alternately a mattress pad/topper or a under mattress piece such as the grip pad 422) it should be coordinated or even standardized to pre-align the snaps up with the bed covering 200 (e.g., as a fitted sheet) installed over the base, as it makes the installation process easier, and less physically taxing.

FIG. 8A is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a fitted sheet, showing a bed covering, a bed covering couple, and a self-attached anchor, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As above, the system 100 for the mattress 10 may include the bed covering 200, the bed covering couple 300, and the bed covering anchor 400. Also as above, the bed covering 200 may be a sheet such as a standard fitted sheet.

According to one embodiment, the system 100 may be “self-attached” rather than directly fixed to the mattress 10 or other fixture. In particular, and as illustrated, the bed covering anchor 400 may be configured to attach to at least two points of the bed covering 200, while passing/wrapping around at least a portion of the mattress 10 (or a fixture), thus being anchored indirectly. Additionally, the bed covering anchor 400 may also couple directly to the mattress 10 (or a fixture), as discussed above, for example, for increased anchoring.

According to one preferred embodiment, the bed covering anchor 400 may include a plurality of anchor straps 430 having at least one couple connector 401 (such as the connector halves described above), and the bed covering couple 300 may have at least one corresponding anchor breakaway 310 for each couple connector 401. For example, the bed covering anchor 400 may be configured to wrap around each of the four corners of the mattress 10 (or alternately the two corners of the bed's foot —such as with a user worn sheet). Thus, each corner mount of the bed covering anchor 400 may include an anchor strap 430 having a couple connector 401 on each opposing end, where each couple connector 401 is configured to removably couple with a mating anchor breakaway 310 of the bed covering couple 300, as shown.

Further, in this embodiment the bed covering 200 may be similar (or identical) to the bed covering 200 described above, in that it is also configured to attach directly to the mattress 10. Accordingly, the bed covering 200 and bed covering couple 300 together may be a sheet with two sewn-on tabs 324 and anchor breakaways 310 at each corner, and the bed covering anchor 400 may made up of four straps (anchor straps 430), each sized and dimensioned to wrap around one the mattress 10, and to connect to the sheet (bed covering 200) and to the respective anchor breakaways 310 mating snaps.

FIG. 8B is a detail view of the self-attached anchor of FIG. 8A. As above, each anchor strap 430 may have a couple connector 401 on each opposing end, each of which is configured to couple with a reciprocal anchor breakaway 310. Further, the system 100 may be adapted for a variety of anchor breakaway 310 positions and/or mattress thickness. In particular, the anchor strap 430 may be adjustable. For example, the anchor strap 430 may be made of an elastic material. Also for example, the anchor strap 430 may be manually adjustable in length (discussed below). Preferably, the anchor strap 430 will include a protective cover (e.g., integrated padding, slidable protective sleeves, additional wraparound covers, and the like) for each couple connector 401, which is configured to limit kinetic impacts of its ends, particularly during a rapid elastic decoupling.

According to one embodiment, the anchor strap 430 may be configured to connect to itself or other elements in addition to the reciprocal anchor breakaway 310. In particular, the anchor strap 430 may include couple connectors 401 on each side of each opposing end, or otherwise “stackable snaps”. For example, and as shown, the anchor strap 430 may include a female couple connector 401f on one end and a male couple connector 401m on the other end. Thus, the snaps are oriented in order so the anchor strap 430 can be folded over to create a loop, which can be attached to other snaps. In certain applications, other materials (e.g., nylon webbing) may be used in cases where elasticity is not desirable for the loop. Beneficially, this may provide for greater modularity of the system 100, such as repurposing the anchor strap 430 the anchor strap 430 as an extension member, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

While conventional plastic male/female snaps are illustrated herein, alternate attachments may also be used. In particular, the connection point (commonly referred to as a snap) can be interchanged with other known connection methods, such as hook and loop, button, grommet zipper, magnet, or other connection type, based on additional considerations or desired performance. For example, the anchor breakaway 310 and the couple connector 401 may incorporate magnets or hook and loop fasteners to provide for a faster acting connection. Similarly, other such attachments may be provided in order to translate one type of attachment to another type of attachment for convenience or where needed. Further, in all illustrations, clip on snaps, sewn on snaps, or otherwise affixed snaps can be used interchangeably.

According to one embodiment, the various disclosed coupling means may be selected based on additional considerations related to the bedding itself and/or its interaction with other bed/bedding elements. Thus, hook and loop fasteners, magnets, and other connection methods may be used in place of two-sided or “stackable” snaps. Those familiar with the art would be able to make the determination of the best connection method, given the trade-offs.

FIG. 9A is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a fitted sheet, showing a bed covering, a bed covering couple, and a self-attached anchor, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As above, the system 100 for the mattress 10 may include the bed covering 200 (e.g., standard fitted sheet), the bed covering couple 300, and the bed covering anchor 400. Also as above, the system 100 may be “self-attached” where the bed covering anchor 400 includes the anchor strap 430 configured to attach to the four corners of the bed covering 200. Here however, rather than connecting directly to the mattress or other fixture (e.g., mattress cover), the bed covering couple 300 components (tabs and snaps) at the mid-length positions may also be “self-attached”, as illustrated. In particular, the bed covering anchor 400 may further include an anchor strap configured to span the (side-to-side) width of the mattress 10.

According to one preferred embodiment, the bed covering anchor 400 may include a combination of fixed length anchor straps 430 and one or more adjustable length anchor straps 430. In particular, the bed covering anchor 400 may include any combination of the anchor straps 430 discussed above (e.g., elastic, nylon mesh, etc.) configured to wrap around two or four corners of the mattress and may include at least one variable length anchor strap 434 configured to span the width of the mattress 10. Further, the variable length anchor strap 434 may be configured to span the width of a plurality of mattress sizes. Here, the variable length anchor strap 434 (and the fixed length anchor straps 432) may include any combination of couple connector 401 (half couple or other attachment means) to the bed covering couple 300 components, described above and herein. Further, the fixed length anchor strap 430 may be made of an elastic material, and the variable length anchor strap 430 may be made of a “less elastic” or non-elastic material, such as nylon webbing. Beneficially, this combination may provide for a snug fit at the corners, which are not likely to have as much variability in thickness as width between different mattress sizes.

FIG. 9B is a detail view of a portion of the self-attached anchor of FIG. 9A. In particular, the anchor strap 430 may be configured to have an adjustable length (variable length anchor strap 434), and further may be made of a material that is elastic or non-elastic (as described above). Structurally, the anchor strap 430 may have couple connectors 401 (e.g., snaps or other half couples) on each end.

The variable/adjustable length anchor strap 430 may be adjusted in length using a slider 436, for example, or other method. Differing lengths of the anchor strap 430 may be set for different placement and objectives. For example, adjustable length is particularly useful for fitting different size mattresses, in particular, for the different depths/heights of mattresses. Prior designs of fitted sheets can have different fits depending on the depth of a particular mattress; however, here, the adjustable length may be beneficial in accommodating these differences.

Additionally, different users have varying preferences for how loose or tight a fitted sheet is on the mattress. Beneficially, the variable length anchor strap 434 may allow for each user to adjust to their fit preferences. Further, the variable length anchor strap 434 may be well suited for any other connection where tension adjustment is desirable, for example, for varied fit and tightness of sheets or other bedding pieces, including sides, side-to-side, diagonals, corners. Further, the variable length anchor strap 434 may be elastic, wide elastic, drawstring, or any material with stretching properties/capacity. Those familiar with the art would be able to select the best construction for the application.

FIG. 9C is a detail view of a portion of the self-attached anchor of FIG. 9A, according to an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure. As above, the anchor straps 430 at the four corners may be a fixed length (fixed length anchor straps 432). However, one or more additional anchor straps 430 of fixed length may also be used to span larger distances (e.g., bed length, width, diagonal).

While the fixed length anchor strap 432 may be generally of a “fixed” length, it may be made of an elastic material selected so as to provide tautness or some degree of adjustment, but less range of adjustment than that of, for example, a change in bed size or a change in strap orientation. Further, and as above, the fixed length anchor strap 432 may incorporate one or more of an elastic material, a wide elastic form, a drawstring, or any material with stretchability as a means to achieve this limited range of flexibility. Preferably, the fixed length anchor strap 432, having a “fixed length” (as described herein), may be used in locations when there is a typical or common length, i.e., that fits most applications, such as corners or standard bed sizes.

FIG. 9D is a detail view of a portion of the self-attached anchor of FIG. 9A, according to another alternate embodiment of the present disclosure. As above, the bed covering couple 300 may include one or more clip/clamps (removable bed covering interface 326) coupled to the plurality of anchor breakaways 310 (e.g., connector halves, snaps, hook & loop, etc.). Likewise, the variable length anchor strap 434 may have couple connectors 401 (e.g., snaps or other half couples) on each end configured to removably couple with the clip/clamps 326 of the bed covering couple 300.

According to one embodiment of the clip/clamps of the bed covering couple 300, the snap may be manufactured directly onto the clip in a “stacked” arrangement (FIG. 12D), for example, where the socket/female connector 310f is on the one side of the clip 326 and the stud/male connector 310m is on the opposite side. Beneficially, this configuration may obviate the need for an extra loop and intermediate fabric/material to which the snap is affixed. Further, a socket and stud may be located on opposite sides of the clip. It is understood that the stacked arrangement could be male/male or female/female, as well. Alternatively, a single socket or stud could be manufactured onto the clip 326 for manufacturing simplicity, while still providing a flexible connection point since all connection points on straps may utilize stackable snaps with both a socket and snap.

The clip 326 may be made of plastic, metal, or other durable, non-oxidizing material. The adjustable length strap 434 can be connected to a single removable bed covering interface 326 or between two separate removable bed covering interfaces 326, while the stacked snap (anchor breakaway 310) provides an additional anchor point (i.e., the free snap on the opposite side of the anchor strap 430) that can be used as desired, and provides additional modularity (as discussed below). Similarly, a clip 326 could be added to any other embodiment of the anchor strap 430, such that it can be clipped to any piece of fabric or other material without requiring a pre-installed connection.

FIG. 9E is a detail view of a portion of the self-attached anchor of FIG. 9A, according to yet another alternate embodiment of the present disclosure. As above, the anchor strap 430 may include couple connectors 401 on each side of each opposing end (or otherwise “stackable snaps” on each end), providing for greater modularity across different applications.

As shown, the anchor strap 430 of the bed covering anchor 400 may be configured as a variable length anchor strap 434. The variable length anchor strap 434 may be made of an elastic material, as well as be configured to have an adjustable length. Further, the variable length anchor strap 434 may include stacked snaps (couple connectors 401) on each end. In addition, the variable length anchor strap 434 may include a slider 436 that is adjustable by the user.

According to one embodiment, the bed covering anchor 400 may include one or more extension members 440 configured to removably couple with one or both ends of the anchor strap 430. In particular, the extension member 440 may be the same or substantially similar to the fixed length anchor strap 432 located on each corner (e.g., FIG. 8B). As above, the couple connectors 401 may be simple or stacked, male or female, or any combination thereof.

Beneficially, the extension member 440 may provide for greater modularity within the system 100, may provide for a greater range of bed size application, and may create additional anchor points to connect other straps to a plurality of connection points using a single strap. For example, one or more fixed length anchor straps 432 may be used for coarse adjustment such as to accommodate a variety of bed sizes, and a single the variable length anchor strap 434 may be used for fine adjustment such as varying tension in the bed covering 200. Similarly advantageous, the various embodiments and modular arrangements of the bed covering anchor 400 can be used when attaching top of mattress pieces (comforters/duvets/blankets, pillows, top sheets, and other decorative or functional accessories). Furthermore, the disclosure provides for securing pieces in all three dimensions.

FIG. 10A is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a fitted sheet, showing a bed covering, a bed covering couple, and a self-attached anchor, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As above, the system 100 for the mattress 10 may include the bed covering 200 (e.g., standard fitted sheet), the bed covering couple 300 fixed proximate the corners and at mid-length positions on each side, and the bed covering anchor 400 that is self-attached (e.g., extending underneath one or more portions of the bed). Also as above, the bed covering couple 300 may include one or more removable bed covering interfaces 326 (e.g., including manually operable clips), and the bed covering anchor 400 may include one or more extension members 440, providing for greater modularity within the system 100.

According to one embodiment, the bed covering 200 and the bed covering couple 300 may be configured to anchor a plurality of points on opposing sided of the bed covering 200 to the mattress, for example, using a single connecting member (e.g., self-attaching anchor strap 430). In particular, the bed covering anchor 400 may include a connecting member configured to couple to a first plurality of anchor breakaways 310 of the bed covering couple 300 at one end (e.g., its left side) of the connecting member 430, extend underneath the bed 10, and to couple to a second plurality of anchor breakaways 310 of the bed covering couple 300 at an opposite end (e.g., its right side) of the connecting member 430. For example, and as shown, a single anchor strap 430 may be modularly modified to include a plurality of branches (e.g., including one of more of simple 432, adjustable 434, extended 440 segments).

Advantageously, the above multi-branch anchor strap 430 may directly replace the single/simple anchor strap 430 of FIG. 9A, without modification of the bed covering 200. For example, and as shown, five variable length anchor straps 434 may be coupled to each other via stacked snaps 401, and further coupled to two extension members 440 and four removable bed covering interfaces 326 at their terminations, which are then configured to couple to the bed covering 200 both at the prepositions bed covering couples 300 and at ad hoc positions as desired.

This may be beneficial when used with other bed coverings 200 that may be exposed or otherwise visible when the bed is fully “dressed”, or that have additional limitations or performance requirements (e.g., flat sheets, comforters, duvet covers, blankets, compression/sensory wraps, pillows, pillowcases, and other pieces can be attached to stay in place). In particular, the abovementioned multi-branch (or composite) anchor strap 430 may provide for an improved fit rather than merely maintain the bed covering 200 in place.

FIG. 10B is a detail view of a portion of the self-attached anchor of FIG. 10A, that may be used to modularly complement fixed length corner elastic straps of the system 100. As shown, the multi-branch, anchor strap 430 may be made up of a central adjustable length strap with a plurality of straps branching out on each end (“branch straps”) to be attached to the sheet 200. For example, the central adjustable length strap may be the same or similar to the variable length anchor strap 434 discussed above (which may be adjustable by a slider 436 or other method, is made of an elastic material, and has snaps 401 on each end). Further, each of the three “branch straps” on each side of the variable length anchor strap 434 may be joined together at a single junction 438, which then couples to one end of the central variable length anchor strap 434 (providing a single connection point between the central strap and the three side branch straps). Finally, each of the three side branch straps may include its own end snap/half couple 401 configured to mate with a reciprocal snap/half couple (anchor breakaway 310) of the bed covering couple 300.

As above, the bed covering couple 300 may include a plurality of breakaway connectors 310 that are integrated into, affixed indirectly (e.g., via tabs 324), and/or removably coupled (e.g., via clips/clamps 326) to the bed covering 200. According to one embodiment, where the breakaway connector 310 of the bed covering couple 300 may be removably coupled to the bed covering 200, and the corresponding branch strap of the bed covering anchor 400 may be adjustable (i.e., variable length anchor strap 434). Beneficially, the combination of the variable length anchor strap 434 and the removable bed covering interface 326 may provide the user with an independent fit adjustment over a variety of applications, allowing for one or more branch straps to be rotated to have the appropriate lateral length. According to one embodiment, where the breakaway connector 310 of the bed covering couple 300 is integrated into (or affixed indirectly to the bed covering 200), the corresponding branch strap of the bed covering anchor 400 may be of a fixed length (i.e., fixed length anchor strap 432/fixed length extension members 440).

FIG. 10C is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a fitted sheet, showing a bed covering, a bed covering couple, and a self-attached anchor, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As above, the self-attaching bed covering anchor 400 may be configured to anchor a plurality of points of the bed covering 200 to the mattress, for example, using a single self-attaching anchor strap 430.

According to one embodiment, the multi-branch bed, covering anchor 400 may be configured for greater modularly. In particular, the components of the multi-branch bed covering anchor 400 may be made up of one or more anchor straps 430, extension members 440 and stacked breakaway connectors 402, as described above. For example, and as illustrated, the multi-branch bed covering anchor 400 may include fixed length anchor straps 432 (extension members 440) coupled to the bed covering couple 300 at four (or two) corners of the bed covering 200.

According to one embodiment, and as illustrated, the multi-branch bed covering anchor 400 may be made up of a composite of anchor straps 430, extension members 440 and stacked breakaway connectors 402. In particular, a central variable length anchor strap 434 (having stacked couple connectors 402 at each end) may be removably coupled to two extension members 440 (one at each end) and together substantially span the width of the mattress 10. Further, similar (or identical) anchor straps 430 may also be removably coupled to stacked connectors 402 proximate each end of the central variable length anchor strap 434, and then branch out to their respective anchor positions on the bed covering 200. Preferably, the various anchor straps 430 will be adjustable in length (i.e., variable length anchor straps 434), particularly when used in combination with a breakaway connector that is removably coupled to the bed covering 200, as discussed above.

FIG. 11A is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a bedding, showing a bed covering, a bed covering couple, and a self-attached anchor, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11B is a bottom view of the mattress wearing a bedding, showing a bed covering, a bed covering couple, and a self-attached anchor, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. As above, the system 100 for the mattress 10 may include the bed covering 200 (e.g., flat or fitted sheet), the bed covering couple 300, and the self-attaching bed covering anchor 400.

According to one embodiment, and as illustrated, the bed covering anchor 400 may include an edge closure 450 configured to draw at least a portion of the periphery of the bed covering 200 underneath (or further underneath) the mattress 10, such that between increased portions-to-substantially all of the bed covering 200 is in tension and anchoring itself against the mattress 10. As above, the bed covering couple 300 may include a plurality of anchor breakaways 310 (FIG. 8A) distributed about the portion of the periphery of the bed covering 200 and positioned to rest underneath the mattress 10.

The edge closure 450 may include a plurality of tensioner retainers 452, a tensioner 454 routed through each of the plurality of tensioner retainers 452, and a plurality of couple connectors 401 individually fixed to one of the plurality of tensioner retainers 454, respectively. In particular, each tensioner retainer 452 may be configured as a link between respective couple connectors 401 and the tensioner 454. Further, each of the plurality of couple connectors 401 may be configured to manually removably couple to one of plurality of anchor breakaways 310 distributed about the portion of the periphery of the bed covering 200, respectively. For example, each tensioner retainer 452 may be a fabric loop with a couple connector 401 attached to its outer surface, where the loop is configured to provide free passage to the tensioner 454 therethrough. Accordingly, when the couple connectors 401 and the anchor breakaways 310 are coupled together, as the tensioner 454 is tightened, it will draw in the portion of the periphery of the bed covering 200 underneath (or further underneath) the mattress 10.

According to one embodiment, the tensioner 454 may be a drawstring that is attached about the entire periphery of the bed covering 200 (i.e., head, foot, left side, and right side). Further, each of the plurality of retainers 452 may be attached/coupleable to a reciprocal anchor breakaway 310 to form a passageway of loops the drawstring is fed through. Alternately, the tensioner 454 may be a drawstring that is attached to just a portion of the periphery of the bed covering 200 (i.e., head, foot, and right side —FIG. 11B).

According to one embodiment, the edge closure 450 may further include a drawstring lock 458 configured to allow a user to decrease or increase the drawstring length to a desired length, and then to lock that desired length in place. In this way, the user may modify the tension of the edge closure 450 by drawing or releasing the drawstring and locking it in place. Beneficially, this may provide for a single system 100 to be fitted to a variety of mattress thicknesses (or sizes) and/or to provide for a user-specified tightness of the bed covering 200.

FIG. 11C is a detail view of a portion of a bed covering couple and a self-attached anchor, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. According to one embodiment, the plurality of retainers 452 may be loops formed from the fixed length anchor straps 430 having stacked couple connectors 401. For example, and as shown, each retainer 452 may be a short fixed length elastic strap where one end is folded over and snapped together on its opposite end, creating a loop that the tensioner 454 can be fed through, whether it be elastic, drawstring, or other. Also as illustrated, the retainer 452 may be configured to removably couple to an anchor breakaway 310 and may be combined with the removable bed covering interface 326, providing for greater modularity and adjustment.

FIGS. 12A-12C are bottom views of the mattress wearing a bedding, showing a bed covering, a bed covering couple, and a self-attached anchor, according to various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

As above, the system 100 for the mattress 10 may include the bed covering 200 (e.g., flat or fitted sheet), the bed covering couple 300, the bed covering anchor 400, the edge closure 450 configured to draw at least a portion of the periphery of the bed covering 200 underneath the mattress 10. Also as above, the bed covering couple 300 may include the plurality of anchor breakaways 310 distributed about the portion of the periphery of the bed covering 200, and the edge closure 450 may include the plurality of tensioner retainers 452, the plurality of couple connectors 401 individually fixed to one of the plurality of tensioner retainers 452, and the tensioner 454 configured as a link between respective couple connectors 401 and the tensioner 454. Further, the bed covering anchor 400 may be self-attaching via fixed length anchor straps 432 at each corner of the mattress 10, as described above.

According to the illustrated embodiments, the tensioner 454 of the edge closure 450 may be made up of one or more elastic straps coupled to one at least two anchor breakaways 310. As above, the tensioner 454 may be attached to the entire periphery of the bed covering 200 (FIG. 12B) or a portion thereof (FIGS. 12A & 12C). This may be particularly beneficial when the bed covering 200 is a flat sheet or otherwise non-“fitted”.

According to one embodiment, the tensioner 454 may include one or more adjustable anchor straps 430 (e.g., variable length anchor straps 434 —described above). In particular, the anchor straps 430 may be attached to and along opposing sides of the periphery of the bed covering 200 (FIG. 12C). Beneficially, tension/closure may be provided to the periphery via elastic tension, manual adjustment, or a combination both.

Further, the bed covering anchor 400 may include one or more additional adjustable anchor straps 430 spanning a distance (here bed width) that is not tensioned by the edge closure 450. Beneficially, additional adjustable anchor straps 430 (variable length anchor straps 434) may contribute to an anchoring means of the mattress 10, as well as tensioning the bed covering 200, for example, for improved aesthetics, to better fit a thin mattress, etc. It is understood that differing methods of tightening the bed covering 200 can be mixed and matched, for example, to allow the user to tighten the bed covering 200 in a targeted area as desired. Different methods (elastic, drawstring, and others familiar to those skilled in the art) may be employed based on each application requirement. Snaps can also be utilized to attach other pieces of bedding (including flat sheets, comforters, duvet covers, blankets, pillows, pillowcases, weighted blanks, compression/sensory blankets or wraps, and similar bedding pieces).

FIG. 13A-13B are bottom views of a pillow wearing a pillow case, showing a bed covering couple, according to alternate embodiments of the present disclosure. As above, the system 100 may include the bed covering 200, the bed covering couple 300 having the plurality of anchor breakaways 310, and the bed covering anchor 400 having the plurality of couple connectors 401, each configured to couple with a respective anchor breakaway 310.

As above, breakaway connectors such as snaps (anchor breakaways 310) may also be utilized to attach other pieces of bedding besides fitted sheets, including flat sheets, comforters, duvet covers, blankets, pillows, pillowcases, weighted blanks, compression/sensory blankets or wraps, and similar bedding pieces, etc. As illustrated here, the pillow or pillowcase may be removably anchored to the bed or portions thereof. In particular, the pillow/pillowcase (bed covering 200) may be coupled to one or more anchor breakaways 310, each of which may then be removably coupled to a corresponding bed covering anchor 400. For example, the anchor breakaways 310 may be anchored directly to the mattress 10 or fixture (FIG. 13A) or indirectly/self-attached (FIG. 13B) using the teachings above.

FIG. 14A-14C are bottom views of a loose bedding (e.g., flat sheets), showing a bed covering and a bed covering couple, according to alternate embodiments of the present disclosure. As above, the system 100 for the mattress 10 may include the bed covering 200, the bed covering couple 300 having the plurality of anchor breakaways 310, and the bed covering anchor 400 having the plurality of couple connectors 401, each configured to couple with a respective anchor breakaway 310. Also as above, breakaway connectors (e.g., snaps) may also be utilized to attach other pieces of bedding besides fitted sheets, including flat sheets, comforters, duvets, duvet covers, blankets, weighted blankets, throws, and similar bedding pieces, etc.

As illustrated here, the loose/non-fitted bedding may be removably anchored to the bed or portions thereof. In particular, the loose bedding may be coupled to one or more anchor breakaways 310, each of which may then be removably coupled to a corresponding bed covering anchor 400. For example, the anchor breakaways 310 may be anchored directly to the mattress 10 (FIG. 1) or fixture (FIG. 14A) using the teachings above. Also for example, the anchor breakaways 310 may be anchored indirectly to the mattress 10 or fixture (i.e., “self-attached”) (FIG. 14B) using the teachings above.

According to the illustrated embodiments, and as discussed above, the anchor breakaways 310 may be positioned in the foot portion, or away from the head portion, of the loose bedding. Beneficially, in this way the user can get out of the bed more easily. Also, where adjustable straps are used, they may provide the benefit of administering sensory compression for therapeutic purposes, as they can be adjusted to give a snug or loose feel, depending on the user's preference.

According to one embodiment, the anchor breakaways 310 may be anchored to the fitted sheet, mattress cover, or other sheet already installed on the mattress. Further, the loose bedding may be reconfigured based on use. In particular, adjustable straps (or fixed length, if appropriate) can be coupled to each anchor point as above, and then coupled to a second bedding. For example, where a bottom sheet bedding is tautly coupled to a mattress (directly or indirectly), it may also incorporate additional anchor points (e.g., stacked snaps) that are accessible to additional bedding. Further, a “user-wearable”sheet that is the same or similar to the bottom sheet may be merely attached more loosely via the adjustable straps (FIG. 14C), providing for an alternate use for a single piece of bedding.

FIG. 15A is a top view of a couplable bedding, showing a loose bedding (e.g., comforter, flat sheet, etc.) and a bedding couple, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 15B is a bottom view of a first couplable bedding coupled to a second couplable bedding, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As above, a first bed covering 200 and an additional bed covering 200 may be removably coupled to the bed (i.e., directly/indirectly to the mattress or fixture), and one or more anchor breakaways 310 may be coupled to stacked couple connectors 401 (or otherwise shared anchor points of the bed). As illustrated, here a parasitic bed covering 202 (e.g., a flat sheet) may be coupled directly to an anchored bed covering 201 (e.g., a comforter).

For reference, a comforter used here could be a comforter, duvet, blanket, or other stuffed bedding piece used on top of a bed. Also for reference, duvet covers are a common bedding piece to protect an enclosed comforter and reduce required laundering of a bulky comforter. Duvet covers are most commonly constructed with two pieces of fabric affixed together along three edges, and have an opening on the fourth edge (with some closure, such as buttons or a zipper). Rather than using a duvet cover, triple sheeting is a common practice in the hospitality industry due to a faster change time than with duvet covers. For reference, triple sheeting is generally where a first flat sheet of fabric is placed above a comforter and a second flat sheet is placed below the comforter. The third sheet then refers to a flat sheet used to cover the mattress instead of a fitted sheet, only if desired. Also for reference, with triple sheeting the flat sheets are not generally attached to each other.

As above, the system 100 for the mattress 10 may include the anchored bed covering 200, the bed covering couple 300 having the plurality of anchor breakaways 310, and the bed covering anchor 400 having the plurality of couple connectors 401, each configured to couple with a respective anchor breakaway 310. Also as above, breakaway connectors (e.g., snaps) may also be utilized to attach other pieces of bedding. According to one embodiment, the anchored bed covering 201 may be the same or similar to the various bed coverings 200 disclosed above. In addition, the parasitic bed covering 202 (delineated with interrupted lines for clarity) may be the same or similar to the various bed coverings 200 disclosed above.

According to one embodiment, and as illustrated, the parasitic bed covering 202 may include a plurality of anchor breakaways 310 configured to couple directly to the anchored bed covering 201. In particular, the anchored bed covering 201 and the parasitic bed covering 202 may each include anchor breakaways 310 (mating snaps) distributed around and proximate their respective peripheries. While the snaps are illustrated in the top view, preferably, the snaps will be hidden from view (e.g., when the flat sheets are coupled to and underneath the comforter). For example, the illustrated snaps may be affixed to an intermediate or folded over piece of the anchored bed covering 201. Further, the parasitic bed covering 202 may preferably be sized smaller (in all directions) than the anchored bed covering 201, thus concealing the parasitic bed covering 202 when the bed is made (see ref. interrupted line of FIG. 15B).

According to one embodiment, and as illustrated, the anchored bed covering 201 and the parasitic bed covering 202 may be configured with a coordinated coupling pattern about their respective edges. In particular, the anchored bed covering 201 and the parasitic bed covering 202 may each have and even number of snaps on each opposing edge, in alternating male/female pattern (i.e., stud 310m and socket 310f), where the pattern of each bed covering is aligned or otherwise coordinated to couple together. Beneficially, this may provide for a single pattern of the anchor breakaways 310 to be manufactured, so that the single version can be used on top or below and enclosed comforter, making it possible to connect two flat sheets to keep a comforter (or other filling material) from shifting and protected better, closely mimicking a duvet cover but with similar ease as the triple sheeting method. For example a flat sheet with double-sided snaps affixed directly to the fabric.

According to one embodiment, the anchored bed covering 201 may have additional anchor breakaways 310 configured to couple the bed covering anchor 400 (e.g., integrated, tabbed, clipped). For example, at least one of the anchored bed covering 201 and the parasitic bed covering 202 may include one or more additional anchor breakaways 310 that are stacked or otherwise on a face of the bed covering opposite the coordinated coupling pattern.

FIG. 16 is a top view of a base tie, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. For reference, commonly there are fabric ties located in each foot end corner of a duvet cover. According to one embodiment, the bed covering anchor 400 may include a pair of base ties 460. In particular, each base tie 460 may be a strip (or strips) of fabric configured to be tied to a fixture of the bed, and having a couple connector 401, 402 fixed to it. For example, the couple connector 401 may be a snap configured to attach to an available anchor (e.g., uncoupled additional anchor breakaways 310 located on bottom left and right corners of a duvet cover) and then be tied to bed furniture such as a bed post or leg, for example. Also for example, the couple connector 401, 402 may be a stacked snap (e.g., stacked couple connector 402), and a second base tie 460 may then be stack-snapped such that the two base ties 460 may extend, wrap around, and be tied to each other, at each corner. Similarly, and according to one embodiment, the couple connector 401, 402 may be a stacked snap configured to be interspersedly coupled between coordinated anchor breakaways 310 of the anchored bed covering 201 and the parasitic bed covering 202. Advantageously, base tie(s) 460 may be added to a bottom corner of a duvet ad hoc.

FIG. 17A is a top view of a loopable base tie in an extended state, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 17B is a top view of the loopable base tie of FIG. 17A in a looped state. According to one embodiment, each of the pair of base ties 460 may be configured to loopably connect to itself. In particular, the couple connector 401, 402 of each base tie 460 may be positioned on one end of the fabric strip, and the opposite end may have a means to be secured. For example, and as illustrated, the loopable base tie 460 may include a slot 462 or other opening opposite its couple connector 401, 402 that is sized and dimensioned to encircle the couple connector 401, 402 while it is coupled to its respective anchor breakaways 310, without interfering with said coupling. Also for example, the loopable base tie 460 may include another couple connector 401 at opposite ends of the fabric strip (rather than, or in conjunction with, slot 462), where at least one couple connector is a stacked couple connector 402 configured to simultaneously couple with both the opposite couple connector 401 and its respective anchor breakaway 310. Also for example, and as above, the loopable base tie 460 may incorporate a hook/loop fastener opposite the couple connector 401, 402, which is configured to fasten the loopable base tie 460 to itself.

The disclosure has been sufficiently described so that a person of ordinary skill in the art can reproduce and obtain the results mentioned in the present disclosure. However, any skilled person in the field of the art of the present disclosure may be able to make modifications not described in the present application. Notwithstanding, if these modifications require a structure or manufacturing process not described in the present disclosure, the modifications should be understood to be within the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Claims

1. A system for coupling a bed covering to a bed, the system comprising: a bed covering anchor including a plurality of couple connectors and a means to anchor said couple connectors to the bed; and,a bed covering couple including a plurality of bed covering interfaces and a plurality of anchor breakaways affixed to at least one bed covering interface, each bed covering interface configured to attach to the bed covering, each anchor breakaway configured to removably couple with a respective couple connector of the bed covering anchor, and to manually decouple from said respective couple connector.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of bed covering interfaces of the bed covering couple are manually removably-attachable to the bed covering.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the bed includes at least one of a mattress and a bed frame; and means to anchor the couple connectors of bed covering anchor to the bed includes at least one bed mount configured to affix the couple connectors directly to at least one of the mattress and the bed frame.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the means to anchor the couple connectors to the bed further includes an anchoring member having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the anchoring member configured to couple a first couple connector to a first anchor breakaway of the bed covering couple at said first end, extend underneath the bed, and to couple a second couple connector to a second anchor breakaway at said second end.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the bed includes a mattress having a mattress bottom surface; wherein the anchoring member is arranged as at least one of a mattress grip pad and a bed skirt, the anchoring member including a sheet of material sized and dimensioned to interface with and extend underneath and across at least one half of the mattress bottom surface; andwherein the plurality of couple connectors are distributed about the sheet of material of the anchoring member proximate a periphery of mattress bottom surface.

6. The system of claim 4, wherein the anchoring member includes at least one anchoring strap configured to extend underneath a first portion of the bed; and wherein said first portion of the bed extends between a left side and a right side of the bed, substantially midway between a head and a foot of the bed.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the anchoring strap is sufficiently adjustable in length to extend underneath said first portion of the bed for a plurality of standard bed sizes.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the means to anchor the couple connectors to the bed further includes a connecting member having a left side and a right side, respective to the bed, the connecting member configured to couple a left plurality of the couple connectors to a first plurality of anchor breakaways proximate the left side of the connecting member, extend underneath the bed between said left side and said right side, and to couple to a right plurality of the couple connectors to a second plurality of anchor breakaways of the bed covering couple proximate the right side of the connecting member.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the bed includes a mattress having a substantially quadrilateral shape as viewed from above; and wherein the means to anchor the couple connectors to the bed further includes four anchor straps, each anchor strap having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, each anchor strap configured to couple to a first anchor breakaway of the bed covering couple at said first end, extend underneath a separate corner of the bed, and to couple to a second anchor breakaway at said second end, respectively.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the means to anchor the couple connectors to the bed includes an edge closure configured to draw at least a portion of a periphery of the bed covering underneath the bed, said edge closure including a plurality of tensioner retainers, and a drawstring routed through each of the plurality of tensioner retainers, and a drawstring lock configured to allow a user to decrease or increase a length of the drawstring length to a desired length, and then to lock that desired length in place; and wherein each of a plurality of the plurality of couple connectors are individually fixed to one of the plurality of tensioner retainers, respectively, such that each tensioner retainer links its respective couple connector the drawstring.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the means to anchor the couple connectors to the bed includes an edge closure configured to draw at least a portion of a periphery of the bed covering underneath the bed, said edge closure including a plurality of elastic tensioners having a first end and a second end opposite the first end; wherein at least one of the plurality of couple connectors is fixed to said first end, and at least one of the plurality of couple connectors is fixed to said second; andwherein each one of the plurality of elastic tensioners is positioned on the bed covering anchor opposite another one of the plurality of elastic tensioners.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the bed includes a mattress having a substantially quadrilateral shape as viewed from above; and wherein the means to anchor the couple connectors to the bed further includes four anchor straps, each anchor strap having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, each anchor strap configured to couple to a first anchor breakaway of the bed covering couple at said first end, extend underneath a separate corner of the bed, and to couple to a second anchor breakaway at said second end, respectively.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the means to anchor the couple connectors to the bed further includes a middle anchor strap having a left end and a right end; wherein at least one of the plurality of couple connectors is fixed to said left end, and at least one of the plurality of couple connectors is fixed to said right end;wherein the middle anchor strap is configured to couple each of the couple connectors fixed to its left end and its right end to a first anchor breakaway of the bed covering couple proximate said left end, extend underneath a middle portion of the bed, and to couple to a second anchor breakaway proximate said right end, respectively; andwherein said middle portion of the bed extends between a left side and a right side of the bed, substantially midway between a head and a foot of the bed.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the middle anchor strap is sufficiently adjustable in length to extend underneath said middle portion of the bed for a plurality of standard bed sizes; wherein the plurality of bed covering interfaces of the bed covering couple are manually removably-attachable to the bed covering; andwherein a plurality of the couple connectors are fixed to the left end of the middle anchor strap, and a plurality of the couple connectors are fixed to the right end of the middle anchor strap.

15. A bed covering attachment system for a bed, the bed covering attachment system comprising: a first bed covering interface configured to attach to a bed covering at a first location proximate a periphery of the bed covering;a first anchor breakaway affixed to the first bed covering interface;a second bed covering interface configured to attach to the bed covering at a second location proximate the periphery of the bed covering;a second anchor breakaway affixed to the second bed covering interface; anda bed covering anchor having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the bed covering anchor configured to couple to the first anchor breakaway at said first end, extend underneath a portion of the bed, and to couple to the second anchor breakaway at said second end.

16. The bed covering attachment system of claim 15, wherein the first bed covering interface is attached to the bed covering at said first location, the second bed covering interface is attached to the bed covering at said second location, said portion of the bed is a top-left corner of the bed, the bed covering attachment system further comprising: a third bed covering interface attached to the bed covering at a third location proximate the periphery of the bed covering;a third anchor breakaway affixed to the third bed covering interface;a fourth bed covering interface attached to the bed covering at a fourth location proximate the periphery of the bed covering;a fourth anchor breakaway affixed to the fourth bed covering interface;a top-right bed covering anchor having a third end and a fourth end opposite the third end, the top-right bed covering anchor configured to couple to the third anchor breakaway at said third end, extend underneath a top-right corner of the bed, and to couple to the fourth anchor breakaway at said fourth end;a fifth bed covering interface attached to the bed covering at a fifth location proximate the periphery of the bed covering;a fifth anchor breakaway affixed to the fifth bed covering interface;a sixth bed covering interface attached to the bed covering at a sixth location proximate the periphery of the bed covering;a sixth anchor breakaway affixed to the sixth bed covering interface;a bottom-left bed covering anchor having a fifth end and a sixth end opposite the fifth end, the bottom-left bed covering anchor configured to couple to the fifth anchor breakaway at said fifth end, extend underneath a bottom-left corner of the bed, and to couple to the sixth anchor breakaway at said sixth end;a seventh bed covering interface attached to the bed covering at a seventh location proximate the periphery of the bed covering;a seventh anchor breakaway affixed to the seventh bed covering interface;an eighth bed covering interface attached to the bed covering at an eighth location proximate the periphery of the bed covering;an eighth anchor breakaway affixed to the eighth bed covering interface; anda bottom-right bed covering anchor having a seventh end and an eighth end opposite the seventh end, the bottom-right bed covering anchor configured to couple to the seventh anchor breakaway at said seventh end, extend underneath a bottom-right corner of the bed, and to couple to the eighth anchor breakaway at said eighth end.

17. A bed covering for a bed, the bed covering comprising: a fabric panel configured to rest against the mattress;a plurality of anchor breakaways affixed to the fabric panel proximate a periphery of said fabric panel; anda first anchor strap having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the first anchor strap configured to repeatedly couple/decouple at said first end to a first anchor breakaway of the plurality of anchor breakaways, extend underneath a portion of the bed, and to repeatedly couple/decouple at said second end to a second anchor breakaway of the plurality of anchor breakaways.

18. The bed covering of claim 1, wherein the bed includes a mattress, the fabric panel is a fitted sheet, said portion of the bed includes a top-left corner of the mattress, and the first anchor strap includes a top-left elastic strip, the bed covering further comprising: a top-right bed anchor strap includes top-right elastic strip having a third end and a fourth end opposite the third end, the top-right bed covering anchor configured repeatedly couple/decouple at said third end to a third anchor breakaway of the plurality of anchor breakaways, extend underneath a top-right corner of the mattress, and to repeatedly couple/decouple at said fourth end to a fourth anchor breakaway of the plurality of anchor breakaways;a bottom-left bed anchor strap includes bottom-left elastic strip having a fifth end and a sixth end opposite the fifth end, the bottom-left bed covering anchor configured repeatedly couple/decouple at said fifth end to a fifth anchor breakaway of the plurality of anchor breakaways, extend underneath a bottom-left corner of the mattress, and to repeatedly couple/decouple at said sixth end to a sixth anchor breakaway of the plurality of anchor breakaways; anda bottom-right bed anchor strap includes bottom-right elastic strip having a seventh end and an eighth end opposite the seventh end, the bottom-right bed covering anchor configured repeatedly couple/decouple at said seventh end to a seventh anchor breakaway of the plurality of anchor breakaways, extend underneath a bottom-right corner of the mattress, and to repeatedly couple/decouple at said eighth end to an eighth anchor breakaway of the plurality of anchor breakaways.

19. The system of claim 17, wherein the fabric panel is a comforter; and wherein said portion of the bed extends directly left-to-right, and is located in a lower half of the bed.

20. The system of claim 1, wherein the fabric panel is shaped as a pillow case; and wherein said portion of the bed extends directly left-to-right, and is located in a top quarter of the bed.