FOLDABLE MATTRESS SUPPORT

Information

  • Patent Application
  • 20250072626
  • Publication Number
    20250072626
  • Date Filed
    September 25, 2023
    2 years ago
  • Date Published
    March 06, 2025
    10 months ago
Abstract
The present disclosure provides a 4-fold foldable mattress support. The lower frame of foldable mattress support, which will be on the inside after folding, can be folded further inwardly by adding a set of hinge brackets. Therefore the edges of inner frames will not extend beyond the edges of outer frames in folding state. This can reduce the packing size and with simple structure. Further the present disclosure provides that strips on the cover used to grab unfolding the mattress support, as well as folding or unfolding with two ends of cover.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE

This application claims the benefit of China Application No. 202311120783.2, filed Aug. 31, 2023 and China Application No. 202322387818.0, filed Aug. 31, 2023, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.


BACKGROUND

A mattress support (e.g, box spring) provides a sturdy and stable base for a mattress. However, a conventional mattress support may require tools for assembly while the pre-built mattress supports may take up valuable space for storage and transport.


SUMMARY

A need exists for improved systems and methods for providing mattress supports that are easy to transport and store. A further need exists for mattress supports that are compact and easy to assemble or disassemble for storage.


Systems and methods provided herein allow for bi-foldable mattress supports that advantageously allow for easy assembly and/or disassembly. In some instances, no tools are required for assembly or disassembly. The systems and methods provided herein may also provide a compact configuration that allows for space saving during storage and/or transportation. As an un-even shape in a foldable mattress support may be less ideal for handling, storage, and/or transporting. Thus, systems and methods provided herein may allow for a more compact and/or even shape in a foldable mattress support.


Recognized herein are various limitations with conventional mattress supports. It is desired to have a foldable mattress support without protruding parts in folding state and easily folded and unfolded, make it ideal for packaging, storage and shipping. Systems and methods provided herein aim to address the un-met needs from commercially available mattress supports by providing a multi-fold foldable mattress support, where a frame of bi-foldable mattress support, which will be on the inside after folding, can be folded further by adding a set of hinge brackets. Therefore, the edges of inner frames may optionally not extend beyond the edges of outer frames in folding state. This can reduce the packing size with its simple structure. Further the systems and methods provided herein may utilize strips on the cover useful for grabbing to permit folding and/or unfolding of the mattress support, as well as folding or unfolding with two ends of cover.


In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a foldable mattress support comprising a first end section, having a first frame and a second frame; a second end section having a third frame and a fourth frame; the first end section and the second end section meet at a folding portion such that the first frame and the third frame are inside when the first end section and the second end section are folded along the folding portion; a first end bar pivotably attached to the first frame, the first end bar is configured to pivot inwardly and is inside when the first end section and the second end section are folded; and a second end bar pivotably attached to the third frame, the second end bar is configured to pivot inwardly and is inside when the first end section and the second end section are folded. In some embodiments, the first frame does not extend beyond the second frame when the first end section and the second end section are folded, the third frame does not extend beyond the fourth frame when the first end section and the second end section are folded. In some embodiments, the foldable mattress support further comprises a cover configured to contain the first end section and the second end section. In some embodiments, the cover comprises a first end having a first outside handle and at least a first inner strip, a second end having a second outside handle and at least a second inner strip. In some embodiments, the first inner strip detachably attaches the first end of the cover to the first end bar, the second inner strip detachably attaches the second end of the cover to the second end bar. In some embodiments, the cover can be made of fabric, leather, plastic or rubber. In some embodiments, the inner strips can attach the ends of the cover to the end bars by Velcro, button-and-buttonhole, sewing, zippers, snaps, or hook-and-eye. In some embodiments, the inner strips can be unfastened. In some embodiments, the first end bar pivotably attached to the first frame with aid of a first hinge and the second end bar pivotably attached to the third frame with aid of a second hinge. In some embodiments, the hinges are formed by two U-shaped units attached. In some embodiments, the hinges having a clearance groove with a width of at least about 1 mm, at least about 2 mm, at least about 3 mm, at least about 4 mm, at least about 5 mm, at least about 6 mm, at least about 7 mm, at least about 8 mm, at least about 9 mm, at least about 10 mm, at least about 11 mm, at least about 12 mm, at least about 13 mm, at least about 14 mm, at least about 15 mm, at least about 16 mm, at least about 18 mm, at least about 20 mm, at least about 22 mm, at least about 24 mm, at least about 26 mm, at least about 28 mm, or at least about 30 mm or more. In some embodiments, the hinges comprise at least a first pivot point and a second pivot point. In some embodiments, the first end bar configured to rotate about the first pivot point, the first end bar comprises a first straight edge and an inclined cut that is non-perpendicular to the first straight edge. In some embodiments, the second end bar configured to rotate about the second pivot point, the second end bar comprises a second straight edge and an inclined cut that is non-perpendicular to the second straight edge. In some embodiments, the hinges comprise a central portion, the first straight edge and the second straight edge may abut the central portion when the mattress support is in an unfolded state.


In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a foldable mattress support comprising a first end section, having a first frame and a second frame; a second end section having a third frame and a fourth frame, the first end section and the second end section meet at a folding portion such that the first frame and the third frame are inside when the first end section and the second end section are folded along the folding portion; a first end bar pivotably attached to the first frame, the first end bar is configured to pivot such that the first frame does not extend beyond the second frame when the first end section and the second end section are folded; and a second end bar pivotably attached to the third frame, the second end bar is configured to pivot such that the third frame does not extend beyond the fourth frame when the first end section and the second end section are folded. In some embodiments, the first end bar is configured to pivot inwardly and is inside when the first end section and the second end section are folded, the second end bar is configured to pivot inwardly and is inside when the first end section and the second end section are folded. In some embodiments, the foldable mattress support further comprises a cover configured to contain the first end section and the second end section. In some embodiments, the cover comprises a first end having a first outside handle and at least a first inner strip, a second end having a second outside handle and at least a second inner strip. In some embodiments, the first inner strip detachably attaches the first end of the cover to the first end bar, the second inner strip detachably attaches the second end of the cover to the second end bar. In some embodiments, the cover can be made of fabric, leather, plastic or rubber. In some embodiments, the inner strips can attach the ends of the cover to the end bars by Velcro, button-and-buttonhole, sewing, zippers, snaps, or hook-and-eye. In some embodiments, the inner strips can be unfastened. In some embodiments, the first end bar pivotably attached to the first frame with aid of a first hinge and the second end bar pivotably attached to the third frame with aid of a second hinge. In some embodiments, the hinges are formed by two U-shaped units attached. In some embodiments, the hinges having a clearance groove with a width of at least about 1 mm, at least about 2 mm, at least about 3 mm, at least about 4 mm, at least about 5 mm, at least about 6 mm, at least about 7 mm, at least about 8 mm, at least about 9 mm, at least about 10 mm, at least about 11 mm, at least about 12 mm, at least about 13 mm, at least about 14 mm, at least about 15 mm, at least about 16 mm, at least about 18 mm, at least about 20 mm, at least about 22 mm, at least about 24 mm, at least about 26 mm, at least about 28 mm, or at least about 30 mm or more. In some embodiments, the hinges comprise at least a first pivot point and a second pivot point. In some embodiments, the first end bar configured to rotate about the first pivot point, the first end bar comprises a first straight edge and an inclined cut that is non-perpendicular to the first straight edge. In some embodiments, the second end bar configured to rotate about the second pivot point, the second end bar comprises a second straight edge and an inclined cut that is non-perpendicular to the second straight edge. In some embodiments, the hinges comprise a central portion, the first straight edge and the second straight edge may abut the central portion when the mattress support is in an unfolded state.


In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a foldable mattress support comprising a first end section, having a first frame and a second frame; a second end section having a third frame and a fourth frame, the first end section and the second end section meet at a folding portion such that the first frame and the third frame are inside when the first end section and the second end section are folded along the folding portion; a first end bar pivotably attached to the first frame; a second end bar pivotably attached to the third frame; and a cover configured to contain the first end section and the second end section, said cover comprising a first end having a first outside handle and at least a first inner strip, and a second end having a second outside handle and at least a second inner strip, the first inner strip attaches the first end of the cover to the first end bar, and the second inner strip attaches the second end of the cover to the second end bar. In some embodiments, the first end bar is configured to pivot inwardly and is inside when the first end section and the second end section are folded. In some embodiments, the second end bar is configured to pivot inwardly and is inside when the first end section and the second end section are folded. In some embodiments, the first frame does not extend beyond the second frame when the first end section and the second end section are folded. In some embodiments, the third frame does not extend beyond the fourth frame when the first end section and the second end section are folded. In some embodiments, the cover can be made of fabric, leather, plastic or rubber. In some embodiments, the inner strips can attach the ends of the cover to the end bars by Velcro, button-and-buttonhole, sewing, zippers, snaps, or hook-and-eye. In some embodiments, the inner strips can be unfastened. In some embodiments, the first end bar pivotably attached to the first frame with aid of a first hinge and the second end bar pivotably attached to the third frame with aid of a second hinge. In some embodiments, the hinges are formed by two U-shaped units attached. In some embodiments, the hinges having a clearance groove with a width of at least about 1 mm, at least about 2 mm, at least about 3 mm, at least about 4 mm, at least about 5 mm, at least about 6 mm, at least about 7 mm, at least about 8 mm, at least about 9 mm, at least about 10 mm, at least about 11 mm, at least about 12 mm, at least about 13 mm, at least about 14 mm, at least about 15 mm, at least about 16 mm, at least about 18 mm, at least about 20 mm, at least about 22 mm, at least about 24 mm, at least about 26 mm, at least about 28 mm, or at least about 30 mm or more. In some embodiments, the hinges comprise at least a first pivot point and a second pivot point. In some embodiments, the first end bar configured to rotate about the first pivot point, the first end bar comprises a first straight edge and an inclined cut that is non-perpendicular to the first straight edge. In some embodiments, the second end bar configured to rotate about the second pivo point, the second end bar comprises a second straight edge and an inclined cut that is non-perpendicular to the second straight edge. In some embodiments, the hinges comprise a central portion, the first straight edge and the second straight edge may abut the central portion when the mattress support is in an unfolded state.


In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a foldable mattress support comprising a first end section, having a first frame and a second frame; a second end section having a third frame and a fourth frame, the first end section and the second end section meet at a folding portion such that the first frame and the third frame are inside when the first end section and the second end section are folded along the folding portion; a first end bar pivotably attached to the first frame with aid of a first hinge; and a second end bar pivotably attached to the third frame with aid of a second hinge, at least one of the folding portion, the first hinge, or the second hinge comprises (a) at least a first pivot point and a second pivot point; (b) the first end bar configured to rotate about the first pivot point, the first end bar comprises a first straight edge and an inclined cut that is non-perpendicular to the first straight edge; and (c) the second end bar configured to rotate about the second pivo point, the second end bar comprises a second straight edge and an inclined cut that is non-perpendicular to the second straight edge. In some embodiments, the hinges comprise a central portion, the first straight edge and the second straight edge may abut the central portion when the mattress support is in an unfolded state. In some embodiments, the first end bar is configured to pivot inwardly and is inside when the first end section and the second end section are folded. In some embodiments, the second end bar is configured to pivot inwardly and is inside when the first end section and the second end section are folded. In some embodiments, the first frame does not extend beyond the second frame when the first end section and the second end section are folded. In some embodiments, the third frame does not extend beyond the fourth frame when the first end section and the second end section are folded. In some embodiments, the foldable mattress support further comprises a cover configured to contain the first end section and the second end section. In some embodiments, the cover comprises a first end having a first outside handle and at least a first inner strip. In some embodiments, the first inner strip attaches the first end of the cover to the first end bar. In some embodiments, the cover comprises a second end having a second outside handle and at least a second inner strip. In some embodiments, the second inner strip attaches the second end of the cover to the second end bar. In some embodiments, the cover can be made of fabric, leather, plastic or rubber. In some embodiments, the inner strips can attach the ends of the cover to the end bars by Velcro, button-and-buttonhole, sewing, zippers, snaps, or hook-and-eye. In some embodiments, the inner strips can be unfastened. In some embodiments, the hinges are formed by two U-shaped units attached. In some embodiments, the hinges having a clearance groove with a width of at least about 1 mm, at least about 2 mm, at least about 3 mm, at least about 4 mm, at least about 5 mm, at least about 6 mm, at least about 7 mm, at least about 8 mm, at least about 9 mm, at least about 10 mm, at least about 11 mm, at least about 12 mm, at least about 13 mm, at least about 14 mm, at least about 15 mm, at least about 16 mm, at least about 18 mm, at least about 20 mm, at least about 22 mm, at least about 24 mm, at least about 26 mm, at least about 28 mm, or at least about 30 mm or more.


Additional aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent to those skilled in this art from the following detailed description, only illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure are shown and described. As will be realized, the present disclosure is capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details are capable of modifications in various obvious respects, all without departing from the disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.


INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. To the extent publications and patents or patent applications incorporated by reference contradict the disclosure contained in the specification, the specification is intended to supersede and/or take precedence over any such contradictory material.





BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings (also “Figure” and “FIG.” herein), of which:



FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate a multi-fold foldable mattress support in unfolded status, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure.



FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate a multi-fold foldable mattress support in folding process and status, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure.



FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate a side view of a multi-fold foldable mattress support, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure.



FIG. 4A illustrates an example of an end bar, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.



FIG. 4B illustrates perspective views of a hinge bracket, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure.



FIGS. 5A-5B provide further exemplary illustrations of a hinge bracket, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure.



FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a hinge bar with a clearance groove in an unfolded state, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure.



FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a hinge bar with a clearance groove in a folding process and state, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure.



FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate a cover for the multi-fold foldable mattress support in unfolded state, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure.



FIGS. 9A-9B further illustrate a cover for the multi-fold foldable mattress support, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure.



FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of unfolding a multi-fold foldable mattress support with a cover, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure.



FIG. 11 illustrates a view of an inner strip which may be fastened or unfastened to the end bar, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure.





DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While various embodiments of the invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions may occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed.


Systems and methods provided herein allow for a multi-fold mattress support, which may allow for the mattress support to occupy a lesser space for storage and/or transportation. A multi-fold mattress support as described herein may also allow for simple and easy folding and/or unfolding for use of the box-spring.


Disclosed herein are various examples of a multi-fold foldable mattress support that may include a frame that can be folded in the middle initially as a bi-fold, and then folded further inwardly by adding a set of hinge brackets. This may prevent the edges of an inner frame from extending beyond the edges of an outer frame in a folded state. This may advantageously reduce the packing size and with a simple structure.


The mattress support may also include a cover that at least partially surrounds a frame of the mattress support, that the cover may include strips on an outside surface of the cover which may be used as handles to grab the mattress support, and allow for easy folding and/or unfolding of the mattress support. The cover may also include one or more inner strips that may attach to an underlying frame of the mattress support, and prevent the cover from sliding or slipping.


Whenever the term “at least,” “greater than,” or “greater than or equal to” precedes the first numerical value in a series of two or more numerical values, the term “at least,” “greater than” or “greater than or equal to” applies to each of the numerical values in that series of numerical values. For example, greater than or equal to 1, 2, or 3 is equivalent to greater than or equal to 1, greater than or equal to 2, or greater than or equal to 3.


Whenever the term “no more than,” “less than,” or “less than or equal to” precedes the first numerical value in a series of two or more numerical values, the term “no more than,” “less than,” or “less than or equal to” applies to each of the numerical values in that series of numerical values. For example, less than or equal to 3, 2, or 1 is equivalent to less than or equal to 3, less than or equal to 2, or less than or equal to 1.


Whenever the term “first,” “second,” or “third” etc. precedes one or more of the subjects, they do not indicate the sequence, the importance, or the numbers/amount of the subjects; they are used to differentiate one subject and another.


Mattress support may be useful for supporting and/or elevating mattresses. Mattress support may be box springs, platform beds, slatted bases, adjustable bases, or solid foundation. Mattress support may be a box spring comprising a frame. While various embodiments of the invention described herein mattress support may also apply to any support for a mattress, futon, cushion, or any other resting surface. Description mattress support comprising box spring; In some instances, mattress support may be placed under a mattress when a mattress is used for sleeping. Mattress support may have a dimension that matches a dimension of a mattress (e.g., twin, full, queen or king-sized mattress support). Mattress support may comprise a frame and/or a cover. A cover may or may not be separable from the frame.


A frame may provide structural support for the mattress support. A frame may be formed from a rigid material. In some instances, a mattress support frame may be formed of a metal or metal alloy, composite material, plastic, wood, or any other material. A mattress support frame may be formed of a plurality of pieces that may be connected to one another. A foldable mattress support may comprise a foldable frame, which may include one or more pieces that may pivot and/or slide in relation to one another.



FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate an example of a multi-fold foldable mattress support in an unfolded state, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure. A mattress support may be in an unfolded state when the mattress support is supporting a mattress or other resting surface above. The mattress support may be in an unfolded state when the mattress support is in use.


As shown in FIG. 1A, a foldable mattress support 100 may comprise multiple end sections such as a first end section 110 and a second end section (120). The end sections may be joined with a folding portion 130. The folding portion may optionally be at the center of the mattress support. The folding portion may be equidistant from a distal end of the first end section and a distal end of the second end section. The first end section and the second end section may optionally have the same length, width, and/or height. The mattress support may be substantially symmetrical along the folding portion. The folding portion may comprise one board unit. The folding portion may comprise multiple supporting fragments.


A first end of the mattress support may be joined to a second end section of the mattress support at the folding portion. The first end section of the mattress support may be movable relative to the second end section of the mattress support. The first end section of the mattress support may pivot with respect to the second end section of the mattress support at the folding portion.


In some instances, a mattress support may have two end sections joined at a single folding portion. In some instances, the mattress support may have three or more, four or more, five or more, six or more, or any number of sections that may join at one or more folding portions.


A mattress support may have an upper frame 140 and a lower frame 150. Each end section may comprise an upper frame and a lower frame. For example, a first end section 110 may comprise a first upper frame 141 and a first lower frame 151. A second end section 120 may comprise a second upper frame 142 and a second lower frame 152. An upper frame for the mattress support 140 may comprise one or more upper frame sections, such as a first upper frame 141 and a second upper frame 142. A lower frame of the mattress support 150 may comprise one or more lower frame sections, such as a first lower frame 151 and a second lower frame 152.


An upper frame may be substantially parallel to a lower frame when the mattress support is in an unfolded state. An upper frame and lower frame may remain substantially parallel to one another when the mattress support is folding or in a folded state. A space may be provided between the upper frame and the lower frame. In some instances, the distance between the upper frame and lower frame may be provided between one or more vertical support frames 170. The vertical support frame may optionally be formed of one or more vertical bars. The vertical bars may pivot with respect to the upper frame and/or the lower frame. This may allow the distance between the upper and lower frame to change during the folding and/or unfolding of the mattress support. A vertical support frame and/or bar may be substantially perpendicular to the upper frame and/or lower frame when the mattress support is in an unfolded state.


Any description herein of an upper frame and lower frame may be applicable to any first frame and second frame of the mattress support that may be provided, regardless of orientation of the mattress support. Any description of an upper frame may apply to a surface of the mattress support that comes into contact with a mattress when the mattress support is in use. The lower frame may be closer to the ground than the upper frame when the mattress support is in use. The lower frame may be on the opposing side of the mattress support from the upper frame, and may be on the side opposing the surface that contacts the mattress. In some instances, the upper frame and lower frames may be substantially identical and/or mirror images.


Alternatively, one or more differences may be provided between the upper frame and lower frame. For instance, an upper frame may optionally comprise one or more supporting structures 180, such as bars, webbing, grids, coils, slats, or other types of supporting structures. The supporting structures may permit an overlying mattress or other resting surface to have sufficient support and/or underlying surface. The supporting structures may increase comfort of a user. A lower frame may optionally comprise supporting structures or have fewer supporting structures compared to the upper frame. This may allow the mattress support frame to be more lightweight.


Optionally, another difference may comprise one or more end bars 161, 162 on a lower frame that may pivot with respect to the rest of the lower frame. A first end section 110 may comprise a lower frame section 151 with a first end bar 161 and a second end section 120 may comprise a lower frame section 152 with a second end bar 162. In some embodiments an upper frame may not contain an end bar that may move with respect to the rest of the upper frame. In some instances, it may be preferable for the movable end bars to be located on the lower frame since there may be less interfering support structures on the lower frame, compared to the upper frame. In alternative embodiments, one or more end bars may be provided on an upper frame alternatively or in addition to end bars on the lower frame. Any description herein of the movable end bars on the lower frame provided herein may also be appliable to embodiments were movable end bars are provided on the upper frame.


As shown in FIG. 1B, a mattress support may be oriented upside down with respect to the box frame illustrated in FIG. 1A, with the upper frame on the ground. In some instances, the mattress support may be configured to have the upper frame on top when the mattress is laid out on top of the mattress support. The mattress support may optionally be configured so that the upper frame is flipped to the bottom when the mattress support is not in use, and is about to be stored away. For instance, the mattress support may be configured with the lower frame on top when the mattress support is being assembled and/or disassembled. As further illustrated below, the mattress support may be configured at the folding portion so that the lower frame is folded in on itself, so that the first lower frame section 151 is folded toward the second lower frame section 152.



FIGS. 2A-2C schematically illustrate a multi-fold foldable mattress support in folding process and status, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure. A multi-fold foldable mattress support may comprise one or more folding portions on the mattress support. For example, a mattress support frame 200 may comprise a central folding portion 230. The central folding portion may substantially bisect the mattress support along a length of the mattress support. A first end section 210 and a second end section 220 of the mattress support frame may be movable to one another. The first end section and second end section may meet one another at the central folding portion. A first lower frame section 251 may fold toward a second lower frame section 252 when the mattress support is being folded.


The multi-fold foldable mattress support may also comprise one or more folding section instead of or in addition to the central folding portion 230. For example, the mattress support may comprise one or more end bars 261, 262 that may be movable with respect to a lower mattress support frame 250. The end bars may fold at one or more distal folding portions 271, 272. For example a first end bar 261 may pivot about a first distal folding portion 271 with respect to a first lower frame 251. A second end bar 262 may pivot about a second distal folding portion 272 with respect to a second lower frame 252 when the mattress support is being folded.


Furthermore, although a central folding portion 230 and distal folding portions 271, 272 are illustrated and described, additional intermediary folding portions may be possible. For instance, one or more folding portions may be provided on a lower frame between the central folding portion and distal folding portions, or on the upper frame. Some embodiments of the invention may comprise three or more, four or more, five or more, six or more, seven or more, eight or more, nine or more, or 10 or more folding portions.


As previously described, although end bars are described as being supported by the lower frame, alternative embodiments may permit the end bars to be supported on an upper frame 240 and/or the upper frame sections 241, 242 to fold toward one another instead of the lower frame sections.


As shown in FIG. 2A, the two end sections can be folded along a central folding portion 230. The central folding portion may be located substantially in the middle of the mattress support. In this bi-fold state, the lower frame sections 251, 252 may be folded toward one another. This may result in the lower frame sections may be on the inside. In a bi-fold state, the upper frame sections 241 and 242 may be on the outside. The lower frame sections may be closer to one another, than the outside frame sections.


During the bi-fold state, distal ends of the lower frame sections may protrude relative to the distal ends of the upper frame sections. The end bars 261, 262 may protrude beyond the distal ends of the upper frame sections. During the bifold state, a first frame 251 of a first end section may be substantially parallel to a second frame 241 of the first end section. Side portions of the first end bar 261 may be substantially colinear with the rest of the first frame 251 of the first end section. Further, during the bifold state, a third frame 252 of a second end section may be substantially parallel to a fourth frame 242 of the second end section. Side portions of the second end bar 262 may be substantially colinear with the rest of the third frame 252.


As shown in FIG. 2B, end bars supported by the lower frames may be connected to the respective lower frame sections by distal folding portions 271, 272. An end bar may move relative to a supporting lower frame section. The end bar may move in a rotational manner about a pivot point provided at the distal folding section. In some instances, the distal folding section may comprise a hinge bracket, which is described in further detail elsewhere herein. The end bar may or may not be capable of moving in a translational manner with respect to the supporting lower frame section. In some alternative embodiments one or more grooves or slots may be provided that may permit some translational motion.


Each end bar 261, 262 may be folded independently of one another. The end bars may be folded by pivoting about the distal folding portions. In some instances, the distal folding portions may allow the end bars to fold inward. When folded inward, the end bars may be inwards when the first end section and the second section of the mattress support are folded together. When folded inward, the end bars may be folded toward the central folding portion, and away from the upper frame section. When folded inward, the end bars may be folded toward one another, instead of away from one another. The end bars may be folded in the same direction that the lower frame is folded. For instance, if the sections of the lower frame are folded toward one another, the end bars may be folded toward the adjacent lower frame section.


In some instances, a user may select an order in which to fold the mattress support. For example, a user may choose to fold along a central folding portion, before folding at the distal portions. Alternatively, a user may choose to fold one or more distal portions before folding at the central folding portion. In some instances, a central folding portion may be partially folded before the distal portions are folded, and then the central folding portion may be completely folded.



FIG. 2C, illustrates an example of a mattress support frame in a folded state. The mattress support may be folded about its central folding portion 230 and at two or more distal folding portions 271, 272. Sections of an inner frame 251, 252 may be folded toward one another at a central folding section. The inner frame may optionally be a lower frame or upper frame of the mattress support frame. An outer frame 241, 242 may be folded to be substantially outside the inner frame. The inner frame sections may be between the outer frame sections when the mattress support is in a folded state.


End bars 261, 262 may be folded toward the inner frame sections 251, 252 at the distal folding portions 271, 272. The end bars may be located between the inner frame sections when the mattress support is in a folded state. The end bars may or may not contact one another when in a folded state. The end bar sides may be substantially parallel to the inner frame sections when in a folded state. The end bars may be folded inwardly toward the inner frame.


In some instances, the distal folding portions 271, 272 on the inner frame may be located at or near a distal end 291, 292 of the outer frame when the mattress support is folded. The end bars may be folded so that they do not extend beyond the distal end of the outer frame. The end bars may be folded so that the distal ends of the end bars are pointing toward the central folding portion when the mattress support is in a folded state. The end bars may not exceed the length of the outer frame of the mattress support. In alternative embodiments the end bars may or may not fold outwardly, but would not exceed the length of the outer frame. This may advantageously allow for a more compact configuration relative to having only a single central folding portion. A multi-fold foldable mattress support may be more compact than a simple bi-fold mattress support.


Furthermore, by allowing the end bars to fold inward, this may prevent them from bumping into the outer frame sections and allow for easier folding. Allowing the end bars to fold in the same direction as the inner frame, may allow for a simplified configuration, where only the end bars on the inner frame need to fold, without requiring any folding of the outer frame. This allows for a simplified configuration that is easier to set up, and less prone to damage or complications. The mattress support configurations as described, may permit a multi-fold mattress support frame having a first frame and a second frame, where only the first frame is further folded inward, without folding the second frame. The ends of the first frame may optionally not exceed the length of the second frame.


A multi-fold mattress support may advantageously allow for a compact configuration where the length and/or width of the mattress support in a folded state is less than the length and/or width of the mattress support in an unfolded state, or in a bi-folded state. As previously described, any number of folds may be provided. In some instances, three folds may be provided by a central folding portion, and two distal folding portions. This may yield a 4-fold foldable mattress support, or may otherwise be referred to as a quad-fold foldable mattress support. In some instances, the number of folds may be 1+2N, where N is an integer from 1, 2, 3, 4, or greater.



FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate a side view of a multi-fold foldable mattress support, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure. A multi-fold foldable mattress support may comprise a first lower frame and a second lower frame. A multi-fold foldable mattress support may comprise a first upper frame and a second upper frame. The lower frame comprising the first lower frame and the second lower frame may comprise one or more folding portions on the lower frame. The upper frame comprising the first upper frame and the second upper frame may comprise one or more folding portions on the upper frame. For example, a lower frame 300 comprising a first lower frame 310 and a second lower frame 320 may be folded along a central folding portion 330. The central folding portion may substantially bisect the mattress support along a length of the mattress support. The lower frame may also comprise one or more folding section instead of or in addition to the central folding portion 330. For example, the lower frame may comprise one or more end bars 361, 362 that may be movable with respect to a lower mattress support frame 300. The end bars may fold at one or more distal folding portions 371, 372. For example, a first end bar 361 may pivot about a first distal folding portion 371 with respect to a first lower frame 310. A second end bar 362 may pivot about a second distal folding portion 372 with respect to a second lower frame 320 when the mattress support is being folded.


In some embodiments, the end bars may fold inwards toward one another. In alternative embodiments, the end bars may fold outwards away from one another. In some instances, a distal folding portion may be configured so that the end bar may be foldable in either direction (inward or outward). In some instances, the distal folding portion may be configured so that the end bar may only fold in a single direction (e.g., inwards only, or outwards only). Configurations of hinge brackets that may control the degree and/or direction of folding are further described elsewhere herein.


As shown in FIG. 3A, the lower frame 300 comprising the first lower frame 310 and the second lower frame 320 is folded along the folding portion 330. In some embodiments, the upper frame comprising a first upper frame and a second upper frame can be folded along the folding portion 330.


As shown in FIG. 3B, the first end bar 361 can pivot about a first distal folding portion 371 with respect to a first lower frame 310. A second end bar 362 can pivot about a second distal folding portion 372 with respect to a second lower frame 320 when the mattress support is being folded. So that end bars 361 and 362 can be folded inwardly toward the inner frame. Therefore, the edges of inner frames may optionally not extend beyond the edges of outer frames in folding state. The multi-fold foldable mattress support described herein provides a compact configuration that allows for space saving during storage and/or transportation. As an un-even shape in a foldable mattress may be less ideal for handling, storage, and/or transporting. Thus, multi-fold foldable mattress support described herein may allow for a more compact and/or even shape in a foldable mattress support. In some embodiments an upper frame may not contain an end bar that may move with respect to the rest of the upper frame. In some instances, it may be preferable for the movable end bars to be located on the lower frame since there may be less interfering support structures on the lower frame, compared to the upper frame. In alternative embodiments, one or more end bars may be provided on an upper frame alternatively or in addition to end bars on the lower frame. Any description herein of the movable end bars on the lower frame provided herein may also be appliable to embodiments were movable end bars are provided on the upper frame.



FIG. 3C shows the foldable mattress support in unfolded state with the lower frames on the top. Systems and methods provided herein describe a multi-fold foldable mattress support may comprise one or more folding portions on the mattress support. Such that, user can fold and/or unfold the mattress support without using a tool. By eliminating the need for tools, the assembly process becomes simpler and more user-friendly. Users can easily assemble the mattress support without having to search for or handle additional tools, saving time and effort.



FIG. 4A illustrates an example of an end bar 400, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. An end bar can be supported by a frame section of a mattress support. An end bar may be movable relative to the supporting mattress support frame section. The end bar may rotate relative to the supporting mattress support frame at a distal folding portion. The end bar can be pivotally attached to the frame section with aid of a hinge bracket. Further details and examples of a hinge bracket will be provided in greater detail elsewhere herein.


The end bar 400 may comprise one or more side portions 421, 422 that may be connected by a lateral connector 410. The one or more side portions may be substantially perpendicular to the lateral connector. The one or more side portions may be substantially parallel to one another. In some instances, the side portions may be substantially colinear with a respecting supporting frame section when the mattress support is in an unfolded state. Alternatively, they may be at a specified angle with respect to the frame section. The end bar may comprise one or more pivot points 431, 432. The end bar may rotate about the one or more pivot points at the distal folding portions.


In some embodiments, the shape of an end of the end bar that meets the distal folding portion (e.g., joining end) may be designed to permit easy folding of the end bar. For instance, the joining end may comprise a straight cut 442 that is substantially perpendicular to the length of the side portion 422. The joining end may optionally also comprise an inclined cut 441 that is slanted relative to the straight cut. Further details to the shape and configuration of the joining end is described in greater detail elsewhere herein.


The end bar 400 may be connected to a supporting frame with aid of a hinge bracket. A hinge bracket may enable the end bar to rotate relative to the supporting frame section. A joining end of the end bar and a supporting frame member may be pivotally attached to a hinge bracket by one or more bolts, or other mechanisms that may permit pivoting.



FIG. 4B illustrates perspective views of various examples of a hinge bracket 450a, 450b, 450c, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure. A hinge bracket may be formed from a single integral piece 450a, or multiple pieces that may be joined together 450b. A hinge bracket may optionally have a substantially ‘H’ or ‘I’ shaped cross-section. The hinge bracket may have a first side 461 and a second side 462 with a middle joining portion 463. The first side may have two substantially parallel protruding surfaces, and the second side may have two substantially parallel protruding surfaces. The protruding surfaces may be substantially perpendicular to the joining portion. The protruding surfaces may optionally have a rounded outer edge. Alternatively, the protruding surface may have corner edges (e.g., perpendicular straight edges).


In some instances, the joining portion may be a single integral piece 450a. In some instances, the joining portion may be formed of two attached surfaces 450b. The joining portion may be attached by adhesive, melting, welding, soldering, mechanical fasteners, or any other technique. The surfaces may be contacting one another without a gap. The joining portion may optionally comprise multiple surfaces that may have a gap between them of 450c.


The hinge bracket may comprise a plurality of bolt holes. For example, a first bolt hole 471 and a second bolt hole 472 may be provided on the hinge bracket. The bolt holes may be positioned so that there is at least one on each side of the hinge bracket. The bolt holes may be provided on respective protruding portions 461, 462. Each protruding portion surface may have a bolt hole. The bolt holes on parallel surfaces may align.


The hinge bracket may optionally comprise a clearance groove 480. The clearance groove may be positioned in the middle of the hinge. The clearance groove may be positioned between the bolt holes. The clearance groove may be positioned through the joining portion 463. The clearance groove may have any shape or dimension. In some instances, the clearance groove may have a larger diameter and/or perimeter than the bolt holes. The clearance groove may be oriented in a substantially perpendicular planar direction, compared to the planar direction of the bolt holes. The clearance groove may have an axis perpendicular to the plane of the clearance groove, the axis extends lengthwise along the hinge bracket. The clearance groove may be located between the pairs of protruding surfaces. Edges of the joining portion may surround the clearance groove. A side opening 490 may optionally provide access to the clearance groove. The side opening may be substantially coplanar with the bolt holes. The side opening may have a planar orientation that is substantially perpendicular to the planar orientation of the clearance groove.


The clearance grooves may advantageously provide enough space for joining ends to rotate freely within the bracket, ensure no interference or binding between the hinge components, allow smooth movement and operation of the hinge. The clearance grooves may accommodate slight misalignments between the hinge parts. If the bolts are not perfectly aligned with the bracket, the clearance groove allows some lateral movement, reducing the risk of jamming or excessive friction. The clearance grooves may be utilized as a channel for applying lubrication to the hinge mechanism.


Hinge brackets may be formed from a single integral piece. In some instances, hinge brackets can be formed by two U-shaped units attached to one another. In some embodiments, the hinge bracket can be made by welding the two units. The hinge bracket units can be attached by welding, melting, soldering, adhesive, mechanical fasteners, or any other techniques. In some embodiments, the hinge bracket can be made by stamping process. In some embodiments, the hinge bracket can be made by riveting, bolting, adhesive bonding, or snap-fit processes. In some embodiments, the hinge bracket can be made of steel, iron, aluminum, brass, steel alloys, brass alloys, aluminum alloys, zinc alloys, bronze alloys, nickel alloys, titanium alloys. The hinge bracket can be made from a different material as the rest of the mattress support, or the same material. The hinge bracket can be made from materials possessing sufficient strength and load-bearing capacity to support mattress support and comfortable usage of the mattress. The hinge bracket can be made from materials of durable and long-lasting to ensure the longevity of the mattress support. The hinge bracket can be made from materials that minimize friction and ensure smooth movement, to reduce noise generation during the folding and unfolding of the mattress support.



FIGS. 5A-5B provide further exemplary illustrations of a hinge bracket, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure. In some instances, the first hinge bracket is used to join end bars and the lower frames. The joining ends of the end bars and lower frames are pivotally attached to the hinge bracket by bolts. The two bolt holes are one each side of the hinge bracket, with a clearance groove in the middle. Various exemplary types of the hinge bracket are shown in FIG. 5A. One of the examples shows a hinge bracket formed by two U-shaped units attached. In some embodiments, the hinge bracket can be made of the same materials as the lower frame of the mattress support. FIG. 5B shows the joining ends of the end bar and the lower frame inside a hinge bracket in unfold status. In some embodiments, the joining ends are pivotally attached to the hinge bracket by hex head bolts, Allen head bolts, carriage bolts, shoulder bolts, countersunk bolts, flange bolts, or stud bolts. In some embodiments, the joining ends are pivotally attached to the hinge bracket by removable pins, fixed pins, knurled pins, tapered pins, clevis pins, shoulder bolts, hollow pins or other mechanisms that may permit pivoting. In some embodiments, the joining ends are pivotally attached to the hinge bracket by fixed shafts, adjustable shafts, threaded shafts, split shafts, hollow shafts, tapered shafts, or keyed shafts. In some embodiments, the joining ends are pivotally attached to the hinge bracket by solid rods, threaded rods, hollow rods, tapered rods, split rods, adjustable rods, keyed rods, knurled rods, piston rods, or adjustable-length rods. In some embodiments, pivotal bolts, pins, rods and shafts can be made of steel, iron, aluminum, brass, steel alloys, brass alloys, aluminum alloys, zinc alloys, bronze alloys, nickel alloys, titanium alloys.


As previously described, one or more clearance grooves 580 may be optionally provided on the hinge bracket. The clearance grooves may be formed as one or more openings that may provide access to a central portion of the hinge bracket. A clearance groove may be formed as a hole in a single integral piece, or may be formed by openings from two or more pieces that are connected to one another, or may pass through multiple pieces that are joined together. A side opening 590 may optionally provide access to the clearance groove. The side opening may be substantially coplanar with the bolt holes. The side opening may have a planar orientation that is substantially perpendicular to the planar orientation of the clearance groove.


As previously described, an end bar 550 may optionally comprise a straight cut 555 and/or an inclined cut 557. The end bar may be pivotably connected to the hinge bracket at a first bolt hole. The inclined cut may be at a non-perpendicular and/or non-parallel angle with respect to the straight cut. Optionally, when the end bar is opened (e.g., the mattress support is in a fully unfolded position), the straight cut may be substantially parallel to a central portion of the hinge bracket.


In some embodiments, a section of a supporting frame 530 may be connected to the hinge bracket. The supporting frame may bear the weight of the end bar. The supporting frame may comprise a straight cut 535 and/or an inclined cut 537. The supporting frame may be pivotably connected to the hinge bracket at a second bolt hole. The second bolt hole may be at a different end of the hinge bracket than the first bolt hole. The inclined cut may be at a non-perpendicular and/or non-parallel angle with respect to the straight cut. Optionally, when the end bar is opened (e.g, the mattress support is in a fully unfolded position), the straight cut of the supporting frame section may be substantially parallel to a central portion of the hinge bracket. The straight cut of the supporting frame section may be substantially parallel to the straight cut of the end bar.



FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a hinge bracket 600 with a clearance groove 630 in an unfolded state, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure. As shown in FIG. 6, the clearance groove is located at the center of the hinge bracket. The clearance groove is oriented so that the plane of the clearance groove is substantially perpendicular to a plane of the bolt holes and/or protruding portions. The clearance groove may be located on a length of the hinge bracket with two bolt holes on each side. The clearance groove may optionally be non-co-planar with the bolt holes. The hinge bracket may have a central portion 635. The central portion may form a plane within which the clearance groove is provided. The central portion may connect the protruding portions. The clearance groove may be formed as an opening in the central portion. Optionally, a side opening 690 may provide access to the clearance groove.


An end bar 610 may be connected to the hinge bracket 600. The end bar may pivot with respect to the hinge bracket about a pivot axis which may be co-located with a center of the bolt hole. In some instances, during an unfolded state, the end bar may only fold in a single direction (e.g., inward only or outward only). In alternative embodiments, from the unfolded state, the end bar may fold in either direction (e.g., inward and outward).


The end bar may have an end with a straight cut 611 and an inclined cut 612. The straight cut may be perpendicular with respect to a length of the end bar that is extending into the hinge bracket. An inclined cut may be at a non-perpendicular and/or non-parallel angle with respect to a length of the end bar that is extending into the hinge bracket.


A section of a supporting frame 620 (which may optionally be a lower frame) that may bear the weight of the end bar may have an end with a straight cut 621 and an inclined cut 622. The straight cut may be perpendicular with respect to a length of the supporting frame section that is extending into the hinge bracket. An inclined cut may be at a non-perpendicular and/or non-parallel angle with respect to a length of the supporting frame section that is extending into the hinge bracket.


The straight edge 611 of the end bar may be substantially parallel to a straight edge 621 of the supporting frame section. A gap may be provided between the straight edge of the end bar and the straight edge of the supporting frame section. The distance between the straight edge of the end bar and straight edge of the supporting frame section may be substantially equal to a thickness of a central portion 635. The distance may be substantially equal to the thickness of the clearance groove. The straight edges may substantially abut the central portion of the hinge bracket when the mattress support is in an unfolded state. The clearance groove may provide a space that may prevent the straight edges from coming into contact with one another.


The clearance groove is introduced to avoid interference from joining ends of the end bar and supporting frame (e.g., lower frame) when folding. In some embodiments, the clearance groove can be at least about 0.5 mm, at least about 1 mm, at least about 2 mm, at least about 3 mm, at least about 4 mm, at least about 5 mm, at least about 6 mm, at least about 7 mm, at least about 8 mm, at least about 9 mm, at least about 10 mm, at least 11 mm, at least about 12 mm, at least about 13 mm, at least about 14 mm, at least about 15 mm, at least about 16 mm, at least about 18 mm, or at least about 20 mm or more in width. The clearance groove may have a thickness less than any of the values provided herein, or falling in a range between any of the values provided herein. In some embodiments, the clearance groove is omitted. There is an opening 690 on the side of hinge bracket, as shown in FIG. 6. In some embodiments, the shape of the opening can be a rectangle, a square, a pentagon, a hexagon, an octagon, a dodecagon, a circle, a half circle, an oval, or a curved shape.


As shown in FIG. 6, joining ends of the end bars and lower frames are pivotally attached to the hinge bracket by bolts or other mechanisms that may permit pivoting through the bolt holes. In some embodiments, the joining ends comprise a straight cut. In some embodiments, the joining ends comprise an inclined cut. The inclined cut is introduced to avoid interference from joining ends of the end bar and lower frame when folding. The straight cut and the inclined cut meet at the center point of the joining edge, which is also aligned with the centers of the bolting holes. In some embodiments, the inclined cut is non-perpendicular to the straight cut. In some embodiments, the inclined angle can be about 5°, about 10°, about 15°, about 20°, about 25°, about 30°, about 35°, about 40°, about 45°, about 50°, about 55°, about 60°, about 65°, about 70°, about 75°, about 80°, about 850 relative to the straight cut. The inclined angle may be greater than any of the values provided herein, lesser than any of the values provided herein, or fall within a range between any two of the values provided herein.


The inclined angle may affect the distance between the edge of the inclined cut to the bolt holes, as illustrated with W1 in FIG. 6. The inclined angle may be selected to optimize the distance W1. A shorter W1 may prevent the joining ends from contacting one another and permitting free pivoting in the hinge bracket without interference. The shortened distance of W1 may reduce the joining strength of the hinge bracket. A W1 and clearance groove thickness may be selected that may provide sufficient joint strength while also allowing free pivoting of the respective ends. In some instances, W1 may be on the order of about 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 10 mm, 11 mm, 12 mm, 13 mm, 14 mm, 15 mm, 16 mm, 17 mm, 18 mm, 19 mm, 20 mm, or more. W1 may be less than any of the dimensions provided herein, greater than any of the dimensions provided herein, and/or fall within a range between any of the dimensions provided herein.


When in an unfolded state, the straight cuts, 611 and 621 may optionally abut a centra portion 635. This may optionally allow the end bar to come to a stop in an unfolded state, and prevent over rotation. The end bar may come to a stop in a position where the length of the sides of the end bars are substantially colinear with the joining section of the supporting frame.


In some instances, the width of the hinge bracket may substantially match the corresponding joining ends. Alternatively, the hinge bracket may have a greater width or a lesser width than the corresponding dimension of the joining ends.



FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a hinge bracket 700 with a clearance groove 730 in a folding state, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure. As shown in FIG. 7, the clearance groove is located on a central portion 735 of the hinge bracket, with two bolt holes 701, 702 on each side. Joining ends of the end bars and lower frames are pivotally attached to the hinge bracket by bolts or other mechanisms that may permit pivoting through the bolt holes. In folding motion, the inclined cut 712 shorten the bottom part of the joining ends, as illustrated by the arrow in the middle of FIG. 7. This inclined cut can help avoid interference from the joining ends. In some embodiments, the inclined cut may replace the clearance groove in the hinge bracket. Alternatively, the inclined cut may be used in conjunction with the clearance groove.


As shown in FIG. 7, during folding of the mattress support, the joining ends will rotate along the joining bolt holes, so that the end bar will fold inwardly. When folded completely, the straight edge 711 (end of straight cut) of the joining ends, may form a straight level at the top edge of the hinge bracket. This will also level with the end bars of the upper frames in the folding stage, as shown in FIG. 2C. The straight edge (end of straight cut) of the joining ends, as pointed shown in FIG. 6, can abut on the inner side of hinge bracket in unfold status. The straight edges will prevent rotating of the end bar and lower frame in the opposite direction, provide a solid support in the unfolding status.


Due to the inclined cut and/or clearance groove, the joining ends may not interfere with one another during folding and/or unfolding of the mattress support. Specifically, the points 750 where the straight cut and inclined cut meet may not come into contact with one another, regardless of how the end bar and/or supporting frame section are pivoted. Similarly, the points 760 where the inclined cut and side of the joining ends meet may not come into contact with one another, regardless of how the end bar and/or supporting frame section are pivoted. This may allow for smooth and free rotation of the end bar during folding and/or unfolding of the mattress support.



FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate a cover for the multi-fold foldable mattress support 800 in unfolded state, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure. A mattress support may comprise a mattress support frame, which supplies underlying structure, and a cover. A mattress support frame may be at least partially or completed enclosed by a cover. In FIG. 8A, a multi-fold foldable mattress support in an unfolded state is wrapped by a cover. The cover may expand around full body of the mattress support, including both a first end section and second end section. The cover may expand around the full body of the mattress support comprising upper frames and lower frames. In some embodiments, the cover can be made of fabric, leather, plastic, webbing, netting, or rubber. In some embodiments, the cover can be made of materials comprising cloth, cotton, linen, silk, wool, polyester, rayon, nylon, spandex, velvet, satin, denim, flannel, chiffon, taffeta, tweed, corduroy, fleece, vinyl, or any combination. The cover may be formed from a stretchable material. In some instances, one or more portions of the cover may be substantially rigid. The cover may comprise a single layer. Alternatively, one or more portions of the cover may include multiple layers. In some instances, one or more portion of the cover may be cushioned or padded. Optionally, one or more portions of the cover may be reinforced in one or more areas for additional strength or durability. Different portions of the cover may be formed from different materials or combinations of materials, or the entirety of the cover may be formed from the same materials or combinations of materials.


The cover may be dimensioned to accommodate a height 825 of the mattress support.


As shown in FIG. 8A, the upper frame 810 is facing up. The portion of the mattress support 810 that will contact the mattress may be illustrated facing up. In some embodiments, the upper surface of the cover, or the surface of the cover facing the mattress may comprise one or more opening 815. The opening may be closable and/or reopenable. The opening may allow the cover to be removed from the underlying frame. The opening may span the width, or almost all of the width of the mattress support. The opening may include one or more lateral portions that may extend along at least a portion of the length of the mattress support. The opening may include a closing mechanism, such as a zipper, button, snaps, rivets, toggles, Velcro, or any other types of closing mechanisms.


As show in FIG. 8B, the mattress support may be turned so that the lower frame is facing up. The cover surface 820 opposing the surface that contacts the mattress may comprise one or more handles. In some instances, at least two handles 830 may be located on the outside of the cover. The handles may each be formed from one or more strips. The handles may be located at or near a distal end of the lower surface. Each distal end may have at least one handle located thereon. The handles may be located so that each is on a distal end corresponding to the positions of the two ends of the lower frames.


Although in some preferable embodiments, the zipper is located on a cover surface facing toward the mattress, and the handles are on an opposing cover surface facing away from the mattress, various combinations of placements may be provided. For instance, both the zipper and handles may be provided on the same cover surface (e.g., 810 or 820), or any combination of opposing surfaces. The handles may be positioned at or near the end bars of the underlying frames to allow for easy folding and unfolding.



FIGS. 9A-9B further illustrate a cover for the multi-fold foldable mattress support, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure. A mattress support frame may be at least partially or completed enclosed by a cover 900. There are some inner strips 940 on inside face of the cover 900. As shown in FIG. 9A, the multi-fold foldable mattress support is in folding state sitting on folding portion with the cover 900. In some embodiments, the cover may comprise one or more opening 915. In some embodiments, the opening may be closed. In some embodiments, the cover can be opened along the opening 915. The opening may allow easy access to the multi-fold foldable mattress support when the cover in on. The cover may also include one or more inner strips 940 that may attach to an underlying frame of the mattress support and prevent the cover from sliding or slipping. In some embodiments, the cover may have 1 inner strip, 2 inner strips, 3 inner strips, 4 inner strips, 5 inner strips, 6 inner strips, 8 inner strips, 10 inner strips, 12 inner strips, 16 inner strips, 20 inner strips or more to attach to underlying frame of the mattress support. In some embodiments, the cover may have at least 1 inner strip, at least 2 inner strips, at least 3 inner strips, at least 4 inner strips, at least 5 inner strips, at least 6 inner strips, at least 8 inner strips, at least 10 inner strips, at least 12 inner strips, at least 16 inner strips, at least 20 inner strips or more to attach to underlying frame of the mattress support.


As illustrated in the figure, the cover may be removed from or used to cover the frame. This may be advantageous in situations where the cover needs to be washed or cleaned. The zipper may allow the mattress support frame to be removed through the opening. In some instances, the zipper and/or opening may be placed to allow the cover to be removed or added when the mattress support is in a bi-bolded state.


As shown in FIG. 9B, there are some inner strips 940 on inside face of the cover. The inner strips can attach the end of the cover to the end bars of lower frames 961, so that the end bars of lower frames can be kept in folding position while in the cover. In some embodiments, the cover may have 2 inner strips, 4 inner strips, 6 inner strips, 8 inner strips, 10 inner strips, 12 inner strips, 16 inner strips, 20 inner strips or more to attach the end of the cover to the end bars of lower frames. In some embodiments, the cover may have at least 2 inner strips, at least 4 inner strips, at least 6 inner strips, at least 8 inner strips, at least 10 inner strips, at least 12 inner strips, at least 16 inner strips, at least 20 inner strips or more to attach the end of the cover to the end bars of lower frames. In some embodiments, the inner strips can attach the end of the cover to the end bars of upper frames. In some embodiments, the cover may have 2 inner strips, 4 inner strips, 6 inner strips, 8 inner strips, 10 inner strips, 12 inner strips, 16 inner strips, 20 inner strips or more to attach the end of the cover to the end bars of upper frames. In some embodiments, the cover may have at least 2 inner strips, at least 4 inner strips, at least 6 inner strips, at least 8 inner strips, at least 10 inner strips, at least 12 inner strips, at least 16 inner strips, at least 20 inner strips or more to attach the end of the cover to the end bars of upper frames. In some embodiments, handle 930 may be located on the outside of the cover 900. The handles 930 may be used to fold and/or unfold the multi-fold foldable mattress support along the folding portion.



FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of unfolding a multi-fold foldable mattress support with a cover, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure. In step 1 as shown in FIG. 10, a multi-fold foldable mattress support in folding status is wrapped by a cover. The cover expands around full body of the mattress support, both inside and outside surfaces. There are two handles on the outside of the cover, each on the far end corresponding to the positions of the two ends of the lower frames. As illustrated, the mattress support may advantageously be delivered in a highly compact state, and not take up much room during storage and/or shipping.


As shown in step 2, the outside handles can be used to lift and/or unfold the mattress support. The outside handles can be pulled toward the outside directions, as shown in step 3, to unfold the mattress support. In this illustration, the end bars may be straightened which creates a bi-fold state. The end bars may be flattened with respect to the supporting frame sections by unfolding the end bars along the distal folding portions. The end bars may be rotated outwardly into an extended state when unfolding the mattress support.


Step 4 illustrates the mattress support in an unfolded state with the cover on. From the bi-fold of step 3, the mattress support may be flattened completely by unfolding the frame along the central folding portion. The mattress support is sitting on the ground with upper frames on the bottom. The outside handles are located at far ends of the cover, corresponding to the positions of the two ends of the lower frames (facing up as shown in step 4 of FIG. 10). In some embodiments, the cover can expand above the first lower frame and the second lower frames. In some embodiments, the cover can expand below the first upper frame and the second upper frames.


Once the mattress support is fully unfolded, the mattress support may be used to support a mattress or any other resting surface. If it is desirable to store the mattress support away, the mattress support can be folded again into its compact state. The mattress support may optionally be folded by taking the reverse of the steps provided when unfolding the mattress support.



FIG. 11 illustrates a view of an inner strip which may be fastened or unfastened to the end bar, according to one or more embodiments of the presented disclosure. There are some inner strips on inside face of the cover. The inner strips can be fixed to the two end bars of lower frames, so that the end bars of lower frames can be kept in folding position while in the cover. As shown in FIG. 11 on the left, the inner strips can be fastened to the end bars. In some embodiments, the inner strips can be tied to the end bars of lower frames. In some embodiments, the inner strips can be fixed to the end bars of lower frames by hook and loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro), buttons and buttonholes, sewing, zippers, snaps, hook and eye, or any combinations. In some embodiments, the inner strips can be unfastened from the end bars of the lower frames, as shown in FIG. 11 on the right.


While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. It is not intended that the invention be limited by the specific examples provided within the specification. While the invention has been described with reference to the aforementioned specification, the descriptions and illustrations of the embodiments herein are not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. Furthermore, it shall be understood that all aspects of the invention are not limited to the specific depictions, configurations or relative proportions set forth herein which depend upon a variety of conditions and variables. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed in practicing the invention. It is therefore contemplated that the invention shall also cover any such alternatives, modifications, variations or equivalents. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the invention and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.

Claims
  • 1. A foldable mattress support comprising: a first end section, having a first frame and a second frame; a second end section having a third frame and a fourth frame, wherein the first end section and the second end section meet at a folding portion such that the first frame and the third frame are inside when the first end section and the second end section are folded along the folding portion;a first end bar pivotably attached to the first frame, wherein the first end bar is configured to pivot inwardly and is inside when the first end section and the second end section are folded; anda second end bar pivotably attached to the third frame, wherein the second end bar is configured to pivot inwardly and is inside when the first end section and the second end section are folded.
  • 2. The foldable mattress support of claim 1, wherein the first frame does not extend beyond the second frame when the first end section and the second end section are folded, the third frame does not extend beyond the fourth frame when the first end section and the second end section are folded.
  • 3. The foldable mattress support of claim 1, further comprises a cover configured to contain the first end section and the second end section.
  • 4. The foldable mattress support of claim 3, the cover comprises a first end having a first outside handle and at least a first inner strip, a second end having a second outside handle and at least a second inner strip.
  • 5. The foldable mattress support of claim 4, the first inner strip detachably attaches the first end of the cover to the first end bar, the second inner strip detachably attaches the second end of the cover to the second end bar.
  • 6. The foldable mattress support of claim 1, wherein the first end bar pivotably attached to the first frame with aid of a first hinge and the second end bar pivotably attached to the third frame with aid of a second hinge.
  • 7. The foldable mattress support of claim 6, wherein the hinges are formed by two U-shaped units attached.
  • 8. The foldable mattress support of claim 6, wherein the hinges having a clearance groove with a width of at least about 1 mm, at least about 2 mm, at least about 3 mm, at least about 4 mm, at least about 5 mm, at least about 6 mm, at least about 7 mm, at least about 8 mm, at least about 9 mm, at least about 10 mm, at least about 11 mm, at least about 12 mm, at least about 13 mm, at least about 14 mm, at least about 15 mm, at least about 16 mm, at least about 18 mm, at least about 20 mm, at least about 22 mm, at least about 24 mm, at least about 26 mm, at least about 28 mm, or at least about 30 mm or more.
  • 9. The foldable mattress support of claim 6, wherein the hinges comprise at least a first pivot point and a second pivot point.
  • 10. The foldable mattress support of claim 9, wherein the first end bar configured to rotate about the first pivot point, wherein the first end bar comprises a first straight edge and an inclined cut that is non-perpendicular to the first straight edge.
  • 11. The foldable mattress support of claim 9, wherein the second end bar configured to rotate about the second pivot point, wherein the second end bar comprises a second straight edge and an inclined cut that is non-perpendicular to the second straight edge.
  • 12. The foldable mattress support of claim 6, wherein the hinges comprise a central portion.
  • 13. A foldable mattress support comprising: a first end section, having a first frame and a second frame; a second end section having a third frame and a fourth frame, wherein the first end section and the second end section meet at a folding portion such that the first frame and the third frame are inside when the first end section and the second end section are folded along the folding portion;a first end bar pivotably attached to the first frame, wherein the first end bar is configured to pivot such that the first frame does not extend beyond the second frame when the first end section and the second end section are folded; anda second end bar pivotably attached to the third frame, wherein the second end bar is configured to pivot such that the third frame does not extend beyond the fourth frame when the first end section and the second end section are folded.
  • 14. The foldable mattress support of claim 13, wherein the first end bar is configured to pivot inwardly and is inside when the first end section and the second end section are folded, the second end bar is configured to pivot inwardly and is inside when the first end section and the second end section are folded.
  • 15. The foldable mattress support of claim 13, further comprises a cover configured to contain the first end section and the second end section.
  • 16. The foldable mattress support of claim 15, wherein the cover comprises a first end having a first outside handle and at least a first inner strip, a second end having a second outside handle and at least a second inner strip.
  • 17. The foldable mattress support of claim 16, wherein the first inner strip detachably attaches the first end of the cover to the first end bar, the second inner strip detachably attaches the second end of the cover to the second end bar.
  • 18. The foldable mattress support of claim 13, wherein the first end bar pivotably attached to the first frame with aid of a first hinge and the second end bar pivotably attached to the third frame with aid of a second hinge.
  • 19. The foldable mattress support of claim 18, wherein the hinges are formed by two U-shaped units attached.
  • 20. The foldable mattress support of claim 18, wherein the hinges having a clearance groove with a width of at least about 1 mm, at least about 2 mm, at least about 3 mm, at least about 4 mm, at least about 5 mm, at least about 6 mm, at least about 7 mm, at least about 8 mm, at least about 9 mm, at least about 10 mm, at least about 11 mm, at least about 12 mm, at least about 13 mm, at least about 14 mm, at least about 15 mm, at least about 16 mm, at least about 18 mm, at least about 20 mm, at least about 22 mm, at least about 24 mm, at least about 26 mm, at least about 28 mm, or at least about 30 mm or more.
  • 21. The foldable mattress support of claim 18, wherein the hinges comprise at least a first pivot point and a second pivot point.
  • 22. The foldable mattress support of claim 21, wherein the first end bar configured to rotate about the first pivot point, wherein the first end bar comprises a first straight edge and an inclined cut that is non-perpendicular to the first straight edge.
  • 23. The foldable mattress support of claim 21, wherein the second end bar configured to rotate about the second pivot point, wherein the second end bar comprises a second straight edge and an inclined cut that is non-perpendicular to the second straight edge.
  • 24. The foldable mattress support of claim 18, wherein the hinges comprise a central portion.
Priority Claims (2)
Number Date Country Kind
202311120783.2 Aug 2023 CN national
202322387818.0 Aug 2023 CN national