PAD FOR SITTING OR STANDING IN AN OUTDOOR SETTING

Abstract

The present invention provides a durable, decorative attachable pad that can be used with a cooler, as a helm pad, or in other applications. The cooler pad can be shaped to fit on the top of a cooler, and can be attached to the cooler as an aftermarket accessory. In example embodiments, the cooler pad is configured for removable attachment to the cooler which allows for repeated detaching and reattaching as desired by the user.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to the field of sporting accessories, and more particularly to a pad for sitting or standing in an outdoor setting. The pad is configured for attachment to the top of a cooler to provide a comfortable seating surface. The pad can also be configured for attachment to the deck of a boat adjacent to the helm to provide a comfortable standing surface.

BACKGROUND

It has been found desirable to provide a cushioned pad for placement on a seating or standing surface to improve comfort. Cushioned pads can help to reduce discomfort and fatigue. It has been found that people sit and stand for periods of time outdoors. For example, boat captains and pilots stand at the boat helm for extended periods of time. In other examples, people may sit on coolers that are used to transport food and drink to parties and other gatherings. Many people own the same make and model of cooler and those coolers are generally indistinguishable from one another. It is advantageous to attach decorative items to coolers to distinguish them from other coolers of a similar make and model.

It would be advantageous to provide a cushioned pad for use on an outdoor seating or standing surface. For example a cooler pad can be attached to a top surface of a cooler to provide a comfortable seating surface. In other examples a helm pad can be attached to the deck of the boat adjacent the helm to provide a comfortable standing surface for a boat pilot. Such a pad would be exposed to outdoor elements such as ultraviolet (UV) light, extreme temperatures, and salt water in addition to enhanced wear and tear. Previously known pads are not designed for prolonged exposure to outdoor elements.

Accordingly, it can be seen that needs exist for a cushioned pad suitable for use outdoors with enhanced wear resistance, resistance to the elements, and improved color-fastness and resistance to fading. The need also exist for a cooler pad that allows users to use the cooler as a seating surface and distinguishes the cooler from other coolers of a similar make and model. It is to the provision of a pad meeting these and other needs that the present invention is primarily directed.

SUMMARY

In example embodiments, the present invention provides a durable, decorative attachable pad that can be used with a cooler to provide an improved seating surface. In alternate embodiments, the invention provides a helm or floor pad for improved standing comfort. According to example forms of the invention, the pad is wear resistant, water resistance, resistant to the elements, and exhibits improved color-fastness and resistance to fading in use.

In one aspect, the invention relates to a compressible pad for use on a cooler, the pad comprising a top surface that is contact by the user and a bottom surface that engages a top surface of the cooler. The pad includes a face material forming the top surface of the pad and a fill material positioned beneath a portion of the face material. The top surface of the pad comprises a graphic design.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a compressible pad for attachment to an outdoor flooring surface, the pad comprises a compressible and resilient fill material, having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a face material covering the top surface of the fill material. The face material is resistant to ultraviolet light. The outer periphery of the pad comprises a beveled edge. At least a portion of the face material comprises a surface treatment configured to increase the coefficient of friction between a user and the face material.

In still another aspect, the present invention relates to a pad for outdoor use, the pad comprising a compressible and resilient fill material, having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a face material covering the top surface of the fill material. The face material is resistant to ultraviolet light. The pad also includes a releasable attachment means positioned adjacent the bottom surface of the fill material.

These and other aspects, features and advantages of the invention will be understood with reference to the drawing figures and detailed description herein, and will be realized by means of the various elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following brief description of the drawings and detailed description of example embodiments are explanatory of example embodiments of the invention, and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top view of a pad for sitting or standing in an outdoor setting according to an example embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a side cross section of the pad of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the pad of FIG. 1 attached to the top of a cooler.

FIG. 4 is a side view of the pad of FIG. 1 attached to the top of a cooler.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the pad of FIG. 1 attached to a boat deck.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the pad of FIG. 1 being depressed by a foot of a user.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a pad according to another example embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a top view of a pad according to another example embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 is a top view of a pad according to another example embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the pad of FIG. 9 attached to a boat deck.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

The present invention may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of example embodiments taken in connection with the accompanying drawing figures, which form a part of this disclosure. It is to be understood that this invention is not limited to the specific devices, methods, conditions or parameters described and/or shown herein, and that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments by way of example only and is not intended to be limiting of the claimed invention. Any and all patents and other publications identified in this specification are incorporated by reference as though fully set forth herein.

Also, as used in the specification including the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural, and reference to a particular numerical value includes at least that particular value, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” or “approximately” one particular value and/or to “about” or “approximately” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment.

With reference now to the drawing figures, FIGS. 1-6 show a durable and/or decorative cushioned pad or mat 10 according to an example embodiment of the present invention. The pad 10 generally comprises a depressible fill material 20 surrounded by a durable face material 30. The fill and face materials 20, 30 of the pad 10 are selected to be suitable for prolonged outdoor use, including exposure to salt water and UV light. The fill and face materials 20, 30 can combine to provide water, stain, and UV resistance. In use, the pad 10 can be attached to an elevated seating surface, such as a cooler C, to provide comfort when a user is seated on the elevated surface. The pad 10 can also be positioned on a flooring surface, such as the deck D of a boat at the helm H or the floor of an outdoor work station, to provide comfort when a user is standing on the flooring surface. In this manner, the pad 10 provides increased sitting or standing comfort and reduces fatigue. For example, in the marine setting, the pad 10 can help absorb energy and reduce stresses and impact from waves and choppy water in both sitting and standing applications. This allows pilots or other users to travel safely for longer distances and remain more alert and less fatigued. The pad 10 can also include a customizable decorative feature such a graphic design or logo. The decorative feature can help a user distinguish their cooler or boat from others of a similar make and model.

Generally, the pad 10 comprises a top surface 12 and a bottom surface 14. The top surface 12 is contacted by the user. The bottom surface 14 is attached to or engages the standing or seating surface, discussed further below. In the depicted embodiment, the pad 10 is rectangular. In other embodiments, the pad 10 can be other shapes including oval, circular, and polygonal. The pad 10 can optionally include beveled edges 16. In other words, the outer periphery of the pad 10 is sloped such that the depth of the pad at its outer periphery is less than the depth of the pad at its center. The beveled edges 16 can reduce tripping and injury. The beveled edges 16 can also be configured to make the pad 10 compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). In example embodiments, an edge inclination angle θ is formed by the beveled surface 16, as best shown in FIG. 2. In example embodiments, the edge inclination angle θ is about 30° or less. In preferred embodiments, the edge inclination angle θ is about 20° or less.

In example embodiments, the top surface 12 of the pad 10 is formed from the face material 30, as best shown in FIG. 2. In example embodiments, the face material 30 is preferably water-resistant, mold-inhibiting, slip-resistant, resistant to damage from saltwater, and resistant to UV light or other damage from the sun. The face material 30 can be formed of a fabric material. In example embodiments, the face material 30 is formed from a fabric comprising a durable material such as polyester, nylon, vinyl, or cotton. In other embodiments, a combination of various materials can be used to form the face material 30. The face material 30 can be formed from a woven or knitted fabric material of various deniers and constructions. The face material 30 can be formed from molded or extruded sheets of natural or synthetic materials. The face material can also comprise various grades of vinyl, urethane, or hydrographic films.

The face material 30 can comprise a graphic design or logo 40 positioned on the top surface 12 of the pad 10. The design 40 allows users to customize or personalize the pad 10. The design 40 can include prints, patterns, artwork, photographs, logos, advertising material, graphic designs, and text. The design 40 can be formed in the face material 30 using various grades of in-mold graphics where the design is integrally formed in the face material. In other embodiments, the design 40 is printed on the face material 30 that forms the top surface 12 of the pad 10. Several print methods and techniques can be used to produce the design 40 on the face material 30. Example print methods include dye-sublimation—offset and digital, digital inkjet including solvent, eco solvent, acid, and latex, and screen printing. These printing methods coupled with the above described face materials 30 allow for high quality printing and photographic resolution. The combination also allows for improved resistance to the elements and increased longevity in outdoor use. In example embodiments, the pad 10 is rated for outdoor use having at least about a 3 to 5 year outdoor rating.

The face material 30 generally covers the fill material 20. In example embodiments, the face material 20 covers the top surface 22 of the fill material 20. In other embodiments, the face material surrounds the fill material. The fill material 20 can comprise a compressible and resilient foam material, for example polyurethane, polyolefin, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, polychloroprene, ethylene-vinyl acetate, or synthetic rubber. In example embodiments, the fill material 20 comprises closed-cell foam. In alternate embodiments, the fill material 20 comprises open-cell foam. In example embodiments, the fill material 20 is preferably water-resistant, mold-inhibiting, and resistant to damage from saltwater. The fill material can include a variety of thicknesses. For example, the thickness of the fill material 20 can range between around ⅛″ to around 3″. In example embodiments, the fill material 20 results in an overall pad thickness of between about ¼″ and about ¾″, for example ¼″, ½″ or ¾″ pad thickness. The fill material 20 can have a variety of densities, selected to suit the intended application. In example embodiments, the density of the fill material 20 can range from around 3 PCF (pounds per cubic foot) to around 30 PCF. In other embodiments, the fill material 30 has a density of between about 8 PCF and about 16 PCF In example embodiments, the fill material 20 has a density that allows it to compress when sat on or stepped on by a user, as shown in FIG. 6.

The bottom surface 14 of the pad 10 generally includes a means of attaching the pad to a sitting or seating surface. In example embodiments, the pad 10 is configured for releasable attachment to a surface such that the pad can be place and removed multiple times. Example releasable attachment means include a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) film with a release liner. The PSA film is attached to the bottom surface 14 of the pad 10 adjacent the bottom of the fill material. The PSA film allows the pad 10 to be used with a variety of seating and standing surfaces without having a corresponding attachment means present on said surface. Other releasable attachment means include metal and plastic snapping fasteners, metal and plastic pin fasteners, metal and plastic push-in rivets, and hook and loop fasteners. In preferred embodiments, the attachment means does not require drilling or any other permanent modification to the support surface. In other embodiments, the pad 10 is permanently attached to a support surface. In still other embodiments, the pad rests on a support surface without positive attachment means.

In a first mode of use, shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the pad 10 can be attached to a seating support surface such as the top of a cooler C. The cooler pad 10 can be sized and shaped to fit on the top of a standard commercially made cooler C and generally conform to the peripheral contours of the cooler. The pad 10 can be attached to the cooler C by the end user as an aftermarket accessory, or provided as original equipment from the cooler manufacturer. In example embodiments, the pad 10 is removably attachable to the cooler C, which allows for repeated detaching and reattaching as desired by the user. The removably attached pad 10 also allows a single pad 10 to be used with a variety of coolers or in different modes of use. In other embodiments, the pad 10 is permanently attached to the cooler C. In example embodiments, the pad 10 is attached to the top or lid of the cooler C.

The pad 10 allows the user to customize the appearance of the cooler C and use it as a seat. The pad 10 can be used with roto-molded coolers, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. Examples of roto-molded coolers include coolers produced by Yeti™, Rtic™, and Orca™. The pad 10 is also suitable for use on traditional flat top coolers. Examples of traditional flat top coolers include coolers produced by Coleman™ and Igloo™. The pad 10 can be shaped and dimensioned to match a specific make and model of cooler C. Alternatively, the pad 10 can be shaped and dimensioned to fit on a variety of cooler makes and models. This ability allows for unlimited personalization and customization of the pad 10.

In another mode of use, shown in FIG. 5, the pad 10 can be attached to a floor or standing surface, for example, the deck D of a boat. The pad 10 can be positioned on the deck D near the helm H of the boat such that a captain or pilot can stand on the pad while operating the boat. The depressible pad 10 can provide anti-fatigue benefits for pilots standing at the helm. Shock from the waves and choppy water can be absorbed by the pad 10, offering increased comfort and less fatigue than standing on the hard fiberglass floor of the boat. In other modes of use, the pad 10 can also be placed on the deck D adjacent the hull of the boat for use by fisherman. The pad 10 can include a removable attachment mechanism such that the same pad can be used both at the helm H of the boat and elsewhere on the boat deck. The pad 10 can also be used in other outdoor standing applications, for example at an outdoor workstation.

The helm pad 10 can be sized and shaped to fit between the helm H and a bench or seat positioned behind the helm on the boat deck D. In some boats, the distance between the helm H and the bench is between about 14 inches and about 20 inches. In other boats, the distance between the helm H and the bench is between about 16 inches and about 22 inches. Example embodiments of the helm pad 10 have a width of less than 22 inches. In other embodiments, the helm pad 10 has a width of less than 20 inches. In preferred embodiments, the helm pad 10 has a width of about 16 inches. In other preferred embodiments, the helm pad 10 has a width of about 14 inches. The width of the helm pad 10 can be larger or smaller to accommodate different boat deck configurations.

The pad 10 can also be dimensioned such that its length is not longer than the width of the helm H or bench. This ensures that the entire helm pad 10 is positioned between the helm H and bench and does not extend to walkways positioned on either side of the helm. In some boats, the helm and/or bench have a width of between about 30 inches and about 42 inches. In other boats, the helm and/or bench have a width of between about 33 inches and about 45 inches. Example embodiments of the helm pad 10 have a length of less than 45 inches. In other embodiments, the helm pad has a width of less than 42 inches. In preferred embodiments, the helm pad 10 has a length of about 39 inches. In other preferred embodiments, the helm pad 10 has a length of about 36 inches. The length of the helm pad 10 can be larger or smaller to accommodate different boat deck configurations.

In other embodiments, the top surface 112 of the pad 100 includes a textured surface to provide friction and reducing slipping. In example embodiments, the textured surface include a pattern 150 cut into the top surface 112 of the pad 100. For example, in FIG. 7 the top surface 112 of the pad 10 includes a plurality of grooves or slots 150 configured to provide friction. The grooves 150 can also allow for liquid drainage which helps prevent liquids from accumulating on the top surface 112 of the pad creating a slipping hazard. In other embodiments, the pattern 150′ cut into the top surface 112 can be more elaborate to both increase friction and provide a decorative aesthetic.

In other embodiments, the pad 200 includes a raised textured surface 250 created by a pattern of raised portions extending from the top surface 212 of the pad. As shown in FIG. 9, the top surface 212 of the pad can include a raised diamond plate texture 250. In other embodiments, other patterns and designs of raised surfaces are used. The pads 100, 200 with textured surfaces are particularly applicable to marine modes of use where the pad is exposed to water. As shown in FIG. 10, the pad 200 can be place on a boat deck D to provide a cushioned, low-slip surface for use while operating a boat.

While the invention has been described with reference to example embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that a variety of modifications, additions and deletions are within the scope of the invention, as defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. A compressible pad for use on a cooler, the pad comprising: a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the bottom surface engages a top surface of the cooler and the top surface is contacted by a user;a face material forming the top surface of the pad; anda fill material positioned beneath a portion of the face material;wherein the top surface of the pad comprises a graphic design.

2. The compressible pad of claim 1, wherein the graphic design is integrally formed in the face material.

3. The compressible pad of claim 1, wherein the graphic design is printed onto the face material.

4. The pad of claim 1, wherein the face material is selected from at least one of polyester, nylon, vinyl, cotton, and combinations thereof.

5. The pad of claim 1, wherein the pad has a rectangular shape.

6. The pad of claim 1, wherein the pad is releasably attached to the top surface of the cooler.

7. The pad of claim 1, wherein the pad is permanently attached to the top surface of the cooler.

8. A compressible pad for attachment to a deck of a boat adjacent a boat helm, the pad comprising: a compressible and resilient fill material having a top surface and a bottom surface;a face material covering the top surface of the fill material, wherein the face material is resistant to ultra-violet light; anda beveled edge positioned on an outer periphery of the pad;wherein at least a portion of the face material comprises a surface treatment configured to increase the coefficient of friction between a user and the face material.

9. The pad of claim 8, wherein the beveled edge is inclined at an angle of 30 degrees or less.

10. The pad of claim 8, wherein the beveled edge is inclined at an angle of 20 degrees or less.

11. The pad of claim 8, wherein the surface treatment comprises one or more grooves cut into the face material.

12. The pad of claim 8, wherein the surface treatment comprises one or more raised portions extending upward from the face material.

13. The pad of claim 8, wherein the pad has a width and wherein the width of the pad is less than 22 inches.

14. The pad of claim 8, wherein the pad has a length and wherein the length of the pad is less than 45 inches.

15. A pad for outdoor use comprising: a compressible and resilient fill material having a top surface and a bottom surface;a face material covering the top surface of the fill material, wherein the face material is resistant to ultraviolet light; anda releasable attachment means positioned adjacent the bottom surface of the fill material.

16. The pad of claim 15, wherein the fill material comprises a foam material.

17. The pad of claim 16, wherein the foam material is selected from at least one of polyurethane, polyolefin, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, polychloroprene, ethylene-vinyl acetate, synthetic rubber, and combinations thereof.

18. The pad of claim 15, wherein the density of the fill material is between 8 PCF and 16 PCF.

19. The pad of claim 15, wherein pad has a thickness and wherein the thickness of the pad is between ¼ inches and ¾ inches.

20. The pad of claim 15, wherein the releasable attachment means comprises pressure sensitive adhesive film.