Patent Grant
12279702
The embodiments herein relate generally to the field of support pillows. Many adults or adolescents participate in activities which make it desirable to support certain objects or body parts. Although some support structures have been used for supporting objects or body parts, such as the arms of a chair, such structures are often uncomfortable and inconvenient to use. Further, some support structures are not easily portable, thereby limiting their use. This invention provides various improvements to support pillows.
One embodiment comprises a support pillow that comprises a pillow body having a substantially straight medial region. The pillow body further comprises a substantially straight first arm extending from the substantially straight medial region and a first free end. The pillow body further comprises a substantially straight second arm extending from the substantially straight medial region and a second free end. The distance between the first free end and the second free end is at least 8 inches. In one aspect, the first arm, the medial region, and the second arm define an outer periphery and an inner periphery. Further, the inner periphery defines a curved support cavity, and the curved support cavity defines an average radius of curvature between 4 inches and 7.5 inches, and the first free end and the second free end have a length in a range from 7 inches to 8 inches. The support pillow further comprises a fabric shell enclosing an amount of a fill material that provides substantially all of the pillow body with a prescribed firmness where a force of at least 10 Newtons applied over at least 30 seconds is required to displace a 3-inch diameter hemispheric probe 1 inch into the pillow body. The fabric shell further comprises a first piece, a second piece, and a gusset connected to the first piece and the second piece, and extending around the inner periphery and the outer periphery.
In another embodiment, a support pillow comprises a pillow body having a substantially straight medial region, a substantially straight first arm extending from the substantially straight medial region and a first free end. The pillow body further comprises a substantially straight second arm extending from the substantially straight medial region and a second free end. The first arm, the medial region, and the second arm define an outer periphery and an inner periphery. Further, the inner periphery defines a curved support cavity that defines an average radius of curvature between 4 inches and 7.5 inches, and the first free end and the second free end have a length in a range from 7 inches to 8 inches. The support pillow further comprises a fabric shell enclosing an amount of a fill material such that the support pillow has a prescribed firmness where the middle of the medial region and the arms protrude above a gusset by up to 2.5 inches. The fabric shell further comprises a first piece, a second piece, and the gusset connected to the first piece and the second piece. The gusset extends around the inner periphery and the outer periphery and comprises a first edge along a first end of the gusset with a first end width between 2 inches and 33 inches. The gusset further comprises a second edge along a second end of the gusset with a second end width between 2 inches and 3 inches. The gusset further comprises a portion between the first end of the gusset and the second end of the gusset that has a width between 1.5 inches and 2 inches. The gusset further comprises a third edge having a length between 50 inches and 56 inches connecting the first edge and the second edge.
Another embodiment provides a slipcover for a pillow. The slip cover comprises a cover body comprising a first piece and a second piece. The cover body also defines an open interior that is adapted to receive the pillow, the cover body having a first medial region and two arms extending from the first medial region to define an outer periphery and an inner periphery. The pillow is constructed of a pillow body comprising a second substantially straight medial region. The pillow body further comprises a substantially straight first arm extending from the second substantially straight medial region and a first free end. The pillow body further comprises a substantially straight second arm extending from the second substantially straight medial region and a second free end. A distance between the first free end and the second free end is at least 8 inches. Also, the first arm, the medial region, and the second arm define the outer periphery and the inner periphery. The inner periphery defines a curved support cavity, and the curved support cavity defines an average radius of curvature between 4 inches and 7.5 inches. Further, the first free end and the second free end have a length in a range from 7 inches to 8 inches.
Another embodiment provides a slipcover for a pillow. The slipcover comprises a cover body comprising a first surface and a second surface. The cover body also defines an open interior that is adapted to receive the pillow, the cover body having a medial region and two arms extending from the medial region to define an outer periphery and an inner periphery. The cover body further comprises a bolster at the outer periphery which extends along a majority of the medial region and protrudes away from the first surface.
Another embodiment provides a pillow body with a slipcover placed about the pillow body. The slip cover comprises a cover body comprising a first surface and a second surface. The cover body defines an open interior that is adapted to receive the pillow body, has a medial region, and two arms extending from the medial region to define an outer periphery and an inner periphery. Further the cover body comprises a bolster at the outer periphery which extends along a majority of the medial region and protrudes away from the first surface.
Another embodiment provides a slipcover for a pillow. The slipcover comprises a cover body comprising a first surface and a second surface. The cover body defines an open interior that is adapted to receive the pillow. The cover body has a medial region and two arms extending from the medial region to define an outer periphery and an inner periphery. Further, the cover body comprises a gusset connected to the first surface and the second surface. The gusset extends around the inner periphery and the outer periphery. The cover body further comprises a bolster shell at the outer periphery extending along a majority of the medial region and protruding away from the first surface.
A further understanding of the nature and advantages of various embodiments may be realized by reference to the following figures. In the appended figures, similar components or features may have the same reference label. Further, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference label by a dash and a second label that distinguishes among the similar components. If only the first reference label is used in the specification, the description is applicable to any one of the similar components having the same first reference label irrespective of the second reference label.
In the appended figures, similar components and/or features may have the same numerical reference label. Further, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference label by a letter that distinguishes among the similar components and/or features. If only the first numerical reference label is used in the specification, the description is applicable to any one of the similar components and/or features having the same first numerical reference label irrespective of the letter suffix.
Embodiments disclosed herein generally relate to support pillows and slipcovers that may be used with such pillows. The support pillows may be used with or without a slipcover. Also, various features of a slipcover could be incorporated directly into the support pillow as described herein.
The pillows are configured such that a prescribed firmness and shape are achieved. The firmness of the pillows can improve spinal alignment, provide support for infants and users of the pillows, and increase the comfort infants and users experience. The shape of the pillows may also improve spinal alignment, support, pressure relief. Furthermore, the shape can further improve the versatility of the pillow so that the pillow can be stored, carried, and/or used in multiple ways.
The pillow body 201 defines a vertical axis 210b within a curved support cavity about which the pillow body 201 curves. The pillow body 201 also has an outer peripheral edge 214 and an inner peripheral edge 212. Support pillow 200 illustrates the outer peripheral edge 214 and inner peripheral edge 212 may both curve about the vertical axis 210b defined by the pillow body 201, although in other instances only one of the outer peripheral edge 214 or inner peripheral edge 212 may curve about the vertical axis 210b. A curvature of the outer peripheral edge 214 may correlate or correspond with a curvature of the inner peripheral edge 212. The outer peripheral edge 214 and/or the inner peripheral edge 212 may be rounded along axis 210a and axis 210c.
The pillow medial region 202 may be substantially straight. In certain embodiments, the pillow medial region 202 may have a length between about 18 inches to about 28 inches, in some cases from about 20 inches to about 26 inches, and in other cases from about 22.6 inches to about 23.6 inches. A smaller sized support pillow 200 may not offer adequate support to balance out a baby's body weight, which could cause fatigue for a caregiver.
The length of the pillow medial region 202 may extend along an axis 210a perpendicular to a different axis 210c that the first pillow arm 204a and/or the second pillow arm 204b extend along. The pillow medial region 202 may include rounded edges that curve toward a gusset of the support pillow 200. In certain embodiments, the pillow medial region 202 may include a thickness measured along axis 210b which is greater than the thickness of the first free pillow end 206a and/or the thickness of the second free pillow end 206b. The thickness may taper between the pillow medial region 202 and the first free pillow end 206a and/or the second free pillow end 206b. The thickness of the pillow medial region 202 may be between about 2 inches to about 12 inches thick, in some cases from about 3 inches to about 10 inches thick, and in other cases from about 4 inches to about 9 inches thick. The difference in thickness between the pillow medial region 202 and a free pillow end may be between about 3 inches to about 5 inches, in some cases from about 1 inch to about 3 inches, and in other cases from about 0.5 inches to about 1 inch. In certain embodiments, the thickness is roughly equivalent (e.g., plus or minus 0.5 inches) at the first free pillow end 206a, the second free pillow end 206b, and the pillow medial region 202. The roughly equivalent thickness results in the support pillow 200 having a relatively flat or level upper and/or lower surface, which may aid in supporting and cushioning a child.
The first pillow arm 204a and/or the second pillow arm 204b may be substantially (e.g., a center line running plus or minus 10 degrees off axis 210c) straight. The first pillow arm 204a may be parallel with respect to the second pillow arm 204b. The first pillow arm 204a and/or the second pillow arm 204b may extend along axis 210c and in a direction perpendicular to axis 210a.
In certain embodiments, the first pillow arm 204a and/or the second pillow arm 204b extend between about 5 inches to about 12 inches, in some cases from about 6 inches to about 9 inches, and in other cases from about 7 inches to about 8 inches from the pillow medial region 202. In certain embodiments, the first pillow arm 204a and/or the second pillow arm 204b extend between 7 inches and 8 inches from the pillow medial region 202. The length that each arm extends from the pillow medial region may be measured from the edge of the inner periphery 216 along axis 210a (as seen in
The first pillow arm 204a may include a first free pillow end 206a opposite of the pillow medial region 202 the first pillow arm 204a extends from. The second pillow arm 204b may include a second free pillow end 206b opposite of the pillow medial region 202 the second pillow arm 204b extends from. The first free pillow end 206a and/or the second free pillow end 206b may be blunt. A distance between the first free pillow end 206a and the second free pillow end 206b at the inner periphery 216 and measured along the axis 210a may be at least 8 inches. In certain embodiments, the distance between the first free pillow end 206a and the second free pillow end 206b at the inner periphery 216 and measured along the axis 210a may be at least 9 inches. In certain embodiments, the support pillow 200 comprises a width between about 11 inches to about 20 inches, in some cases from about 13 inches to about 18 inches, and in other cases from about 15 inches to about 16 inches. The width may be measured along axis 210c.
The size and angle of the support pillow 200 is ideal for various feeding scenarios and accommodates seats of various size. The shape and size of the support pillow 200 improves a caregiver's ability to properly position an infant or baby while feeding the infant or baby in a safe and efficient manner. The support pillow 200 is designed to comfortably serve consumers of a wide range of body types and infants or babies. Comfort can be achieved, in part, by the formation of the curved support cavity defined by the inner periphery 216. The support cavity may define an average radius of curvature of at least between 4 inches and 7.5 inches (e.g., 5.5 inches in some embodiments). The “average radius of curvature” is meant to define the geometric radius of a hypothetical semi-circle arc between the inner periphery 216 of the first pillow arm 204a and the inner periphery 216 of the second pillow arm 204b. In certain embodiments, the hypothetical semi-circle arc may be between two ends of the outer periphery 218. The inner periphery 216 need not identically follow a geometry arc. Comfort can be achieved, in part, by a curved design that conforms to a caregiver's body while fully supporting the weight and length of the baby. The pillow body 201 can include fill material (not shown) and a fabric shell that encloses the fill material. The fill material may include any combination of synthetic batting, foam, cotton, wool, feathers, plastic pellets, or dried grains. The fabric shell may include any material combination of polyester, cotton, linen, silk, satin, wool, nylon, rayon, or microfiber. In certain embodiments, the fabric shell includes 80% polyester and 20% cotton. One having ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of the present disclosure would recognize other materials that may be used in the described embodiments.
The fabric shell can enclose an amount of a fill material that provides substantially all of the pillow body 201 with a prescribed firmness where a force of at least 10 Newtons is required to displace a 3-inch diameter hemispheric probe one inch into the pillow body 201. In certain embodiments, fill material provides pillow body 201 with the prescribed firmness such that the 3-inch diameter hemispheric probe can be pressed against pillow body 201 with up to 10 Newtons of force for at least 30 seconds with the pillow body 201 deflecting by 1 inch or less. For some uses, the firmness of the pillow body 201 will be greater than the above described firmness (e.g., capable of withstanding greater force and/or for longer time), while for other uses, the firmness may be less than the above prescribed firmness.
In certain embodiments, the support pillow 200 may be used with a slipcover (e.g., any of the slipcover embodiments described herein). The slipcovers described herein may help keep the support pillow 200 clean, reduce odor of the support pillow 200, have a different texture than support pillow 200. The different texture may be useful for comfort and/or for increasing the grip in one or more portions of the slipcover (e.g., to reduce sliding while being used). The slipcovers described herein may help regulate temperature of the user or an infant. The slipcovers described herein may protect the support pillow 200 fabric and prolong the life of support pillow 200, may be waterproof, and/or may add further support for body parts of the user or infant.
The gusset 306 may be a strip or section of material that is sewn to the first piece 304 (e.g., a top piece) and the second piece 308 (e.g., a bottom piece) of the fabric shell 301 of the pillow body 201. Seams may be formed where the gusset 306 is sewn to the first piece 304 and the second piece 308.
In certain embodiments, the seams and/or other seams described herein may be configured to withstand at least 15 pounds of tension force. In certain embodiments, the seams and/or other seams described herein may be configured to withstand at least a four lb-in. (0.4 N-m) torque in a clockwise rotation to 180 degrees and maintained for ten seconds before support pillow 200 is released, allowed to return to relaxed state, and the four lb-in. (0.4 N-m) of torque is applied in a counter clockwise rotation to 180 degrees and maintained for ten seconds. In certain embodiments, the seams and/or other seams described herein may be configured to withstand at least a 15 lb (67 N) force over five seconds or ten seconds, in a direction to remove the component. Other components (e.g., surfaces, pieces, portions, gussets, connectors, fasteners, pockets, straps, etc.) may be additionally or alternatively be subjected to the above strength standards. The seam strength and/or other component strengths can help ensure the fill material can be compacted within the fabric shell 301 to an amount needed to provide the desired firmness without bursting the seam. The strength may prevent fill material from being released from the support pillow 200. The strength of components and/or materials may prevent components from coming loose and/or tearing.
The gusset 306 may extend along a mid-plane of the pillow body 201. The gusset 306 may extend around the inner periphery 216 and the outer periphery 218 of the pillow. The gusset 306 may have ends that are sewn to the second piece 308. The end of the gusset 306 may be sewn to the second piece 308 at the back of the support pillow 200. In certain embodiments, the entire width or substantially all of the width of the gusset 306 end is sewn to the second piece 308. The width of the gusset 306 between the gusset ends may be constant or may taper. In certain embodiments, the width of the gusset 306 is the smallest near the middle of the gusset 306 between the gusset ends.
The opening ends 320 may have any number of backstitches over a seam joining the first piece 304 and the second piece 308. In certain embodiments, three or more back stitches are used. The back stitches may be used to secure the zipper 312 to the opening while the support pillow 200 is filled to a prescribed firmness (e.g., the firmness described above where a force of at least 10 Newtons is required to displace a 3-inch diameter hemispheric probe one inch into the pillow body 201) that exerts an outward force on the fabric shell 301. A fabric brace may be used in addition to or as an alternative to the back stitches. A fabric brace may be placed on the inside of the fabric shell 301 (the side with the fill material) and stitched to the first piece 304 and the second piece 308. The fabric brace may be included at one or both ends of the zipper opening. In certain embodiments, the zipper 312 is coupled to an elongated flap of the second piece 308 (e.g., described further with respect to
The gusset 306 is adapted to prevent tearing of the pillow body 201 adjacent to the inner peripheral edge 212 of the curved support cavity during use, such as upon movement or deflection of the first free pillow end 206a and the second free pillow end 206b. The pillow body 201 length measured along axis 210a may be between about 19 inches to about 26 inches, in some cases from about 21 inches to about 26 inches, and in other cases from about 23 inches to about 24 inches. In certain embodiments, the middle of the pillow medial region 202 measured along axis 210a and the middle of the arms 204 measured along axis 210a may protrude above (measured along axis 210b described above) the gusset by up to 2.5 inches, 3.5 inches in some embodiments, and 4.5 inches in some embodiments. The height of the protrusion and overall thickness of the support pillow 200 may depend on the amount of fill material enclosed by the fabric shell 301.
The first pillow arm 204a and the second pillow arm 204b may have a length measured along an axis perpendicular to axis 210a (e.g., axis 210c) in some cases in the range from 5 inches to about 12 inches, and in other cases in the range from about 6 inches to about 9 inches, and in other cases in the range from 7 inches to 8 inches. In certain embodiments, the first pillow arm 204a and the second pillow arm 204b may have a length less than or equal to 9 inches. The extension measurement of the pillow arms 204 may be measured along the arm extension dotted line 318 (axis 210c as described above). The arm extension may be measured from a free pillow end 206 of a respective pillow arm 204 (e.g., a line tangent to the free pillow end 206) to a furthest portion on an axis perpendicular to axis 210a (e.g., axis 210c described above) of the inner periphery 216 as shown by the arm extension dotted line 318.
In certain embodiments, the pillow body 201 may include a bolster similar to that described in connection with the slipcover described hereinafter. The bolster may be formed by the fabric shell of the pillow body 201 and may enclose fill material. The fabric shell of the bolster may include a front portion joined with the first piece 304 and a back portion joined with the second piece 308. In such embodiments, the bolster may be part of the support pillow 200 and therefore may reduce the need for a bolster to be located in a slipcover in a corresponding position. For example, the fabric shell of the bolster may enclose fill material to create an additional protruding support surface/barrier/ridge along the outer periphery 218 of the pillow body 201.
The first piece 304 may form a top of the support pillow 200. The first piece 304 may be made of any of the materials used for the fabric shell 301. The first piece 304 may be U-shaped in geometry. In certain embodiments, the first piece 304 may have a width between about 11 inches to about 20 inches, in some cases from about 13 inches to about 18 inches, and in other cases from about 15 inches to about 16 inches. In certain embodiments, the first piece may have a length between about 19 inches to about 26 inches, in some cases from about 21 inches to about 26 inches, and in other cases from about 23 inches to about 24 inches.
The second piece 308 may form a bottom of the support pillow 200. The second piece 308 may be made of any of the materials used for the fabric shell 301. The second piece 308 may include a U-shaped section that corresponds in geometry to the first piece 304. In certain embodiments, the second piece 308 may have a length between 22.63 inches and 23.63 inches.
The second piece 308 may include an elongated flap 410 extending from a rear side of the U-shaped section. An advantage of having the elongated flap 410 as part of second piece 308 can be reducing the number of seams that would otherwise be needed if the material making up the elongated flap 410 was a separate piece from first piece 304, second piece 308, and gusset 306. The width of the elongated flap 410 may also configure the support pillow 200 to have a shape that is thicker and raised up near the back end of the support pillow 200 than in the front of the support pillow 200, which may thereby improve comfort and support of an infant and/or user.
The elongated flap 410 may be coupled with the first piece 304 and/or the gusset 306. The elongated piece may be coupled to a zipper or other fastener, and the zipper or other fastener may be coupled to the first piece 304. The first piece 304 and the second piece 308 may be positioned such that the first piece 304 and the second piece 308 form an opening along the back of the support pillow 200. The zipper or other fastener may be placed along the opening and may enable the opening to be closed.
The elongated flap 410 may include a first flap end 412a and a second flap end 412b. The first flap end 412a may be sewn to the gusset 306. The second flap end 412b may be opposite of the first flap end 412a and the second flap end 412b may be sewn to the gusset 306. The first piece 304 may be sewn to the second piece 308 along the elongated flap 410.
The gusset 306 may be sewn to the first piece 304, the second piece 308, and the elongated flap 410 of the second piece 308. The gusset 306 may be connected (e.g., via stitching) to the first piece 304 and the second piece 308. The gusset 306 may extend around the inner periphery 216 of the support pillow 200. The gusset 306 may partially (e.g., 50%), mostly (e.g., 60%, 70%, 80%), or completely extend around the outer periphery 218 of the support pillow 200.
The gusset 306 may have a tapered shape. The gusset 306 may have a width at a first end of the gusset of between about 1 inch to about 5 inches, in some cases from about 2 inches to about 4 inches, and in other cases from about 2 inches to about 3 inches. The gusset 306 may include a second end opposite of the first end. The second end may have a similar width as the first end (e.g., between 2.25 inches and 2.75 inches). In certain embodiments, a center region of the gusset 306 located between the first end and the second end may have a width between about 1 inch to about 3 inches, in some cases from about 1.0 inches to about 2.5 inches, and in other cases from about 1.5 inches to about 2 inches. In some embodiments, the gusset 306 has a width that is substantially the same along the length of the gusset 306. The length of the gusset 306 may be between about 40 inches to about 66 inches, in some cases from about 46 inches to about 60 inches, and in other cases from about 50 inches to about 56 inches. Shaping gusset 306 in this manner can provide the support pillow 200 with the taper previously described.
The cover body 601 may have a slipcover medial region 602, a first slipcover arm 604a, a second slipcover arm 604b, a first free slipcover end 606a, and a second free slipcover end 606b. The first slipcover arm 604a and the second slipcover arm 604b may extend from the slipcover medial region 602 to define an outer periphery 618 and an inner periphery 616. The cover body 601 may have similar dimensions to a support pillow such that the slipcover 600 may be placed around the support pillow.
The cover body 601 defines a vertical axis 210b within a curved support cavity about which the cover body 601 curves. The cover body 601 also has an outer peripheral edge 614 and an inner peripheral edge 612. Slipcover 600 illustrates the outer peripheral edge 614 and inner peripheral edge 612 may both curve about the vertical axis 210b defined by the pillow body 601, although in other instances only one of the outer peripheral edge 614 or inner peripheral edge 612 may curve about the vertical axis 210b. A curvature of the outer peripheral edge 614 may correlate or correspond with a curvature of the inner peripheral edge 612. The outer peripheral edge 614 and/or the inner peripheral edge 612 may be rounded along axis 210a and axis 210c.
The slipcover medial region 602 may be substantially straight (e.g., front and back sides running less than ten degrees off axis 210a). In certain embodiments, the slipcover medial region may have a length between about 19 inches to about 28 inches, in some cases from about 21 inches to about 26 inches, and in other cases from about 23 inches to about 24 inches. In certain embodiments, the slipcover 600 may have a length that is smaller or larger so that it may be placed around other sizes of pillows.
The length of the slipcover medial region 602 may extend along an axis 210a perpendicular to a different axis 210c that the first slipcover arm 604a and/or the second slipcover arm 604b extend along. The slipcover medial region 602 may include rounded edges that curve toward a gusset of the slipcover 600. In certain embodiments, the slipcover medial region 602 may be configured to receive a portion of a pillow with a thickness greater than the thickness of the pillow portion the first free slipcover end 606a and/or the second free slipcover end 606b is configured to receive. In certain embodiments, the slipcover medial region 602 may be configured to receive a portion of a pillow with a thickness substantially the same (e.g., plus or minus 0.5 inches) as the thickness of the pillow portion the first free slipcover end 606a and/or the second free slipcover end 606b is configured to receive.
The first slipcover arm 604a and/or the second slipcover arm 604b may be substantially straight (e.g., a center line running less than ten degrees off of axis 210c). The first slipcover arm 604a may be parallel with respect to the second slipcover arm 604b. The first slipcover arm 604a and/or the second slipcover arm 604b may extend along axis 210c and in a direction perpendicular to axis 210a. In certain embodiments, the first slipcover arm 604a and/or the second slipcover arm 604b extend between about 5 inches to about 12 inches, in some cases from about 6 inches to about 9 inches, and in other cases from about 7 inches to about 8 inches from the medial region. The measurement of the extension length of the arms 604 may be measured similar to the extension length of the pillow arms 204 described above.
The first slipcover arm 604a may include a first free slipcover end 606a opposite of the slipcover medial region 610 the first slipcover arm 604a extends from. The second slipcover arm 604b may include a second free slipcover end 606b opposite of the slipcover medial region 602 the second slipcover arm 604b extends from. The first free slipcover end 606a and/or the second free slipcover end 606b may be configured to receive a blunt free pillow end. A distance between the first free slipcover end 606a and the second free slipcover end 606b measured along the axis 210a may be at least 8 inches. In certain embodiments, the slipcover 600 comprises a width between about 14 inches to about 20 inches, in some cases from about 14 inches to about 17 inches, and in other cases from about 15 inches to about 16 inches. The width may be measured along axis 210c and may include the combined width of the first slipcover arm 604a and the slipcover medial region 602.
The shape and size of the slipcover 600 improves a caregiver's ability to properly position an infant or baby while feeding the infant or baby in a safe and efficient manner. The slipcover 600 is designed to comfortably serve consumers of all body types and infants or babies of all ages. Comfort can be achieved, in part, by the formation of the curved support cavity defined by the inner periphery 616. The support cavity may define an average radius of curvature of at least between 4 inches and 7.5 inches (e.g., 5.5 inches in some embodiments). Comfort can be achieved, in part, by a curved design that conforms to a caregiver's body. The fabric shell of the slipcover body 601 may include any material combination of polyester, cotton, polyester microfiber, other microfiber, linen, silk, wool, nylon, rayon, or satin. One having ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of the present disclosure would recognize other materials that may be used in the described embodiments. In certain embodiments, the fabric shell includes 100% polyester microfiber. The fabric shell can receive a pillow such as the support pillow described above (e.g., support pillow 200).
The gusset 706 may be strips or sections of material that are sewn to the first piece 704 (e.g., a top piece) and the second piece 708 (e.g., a bottom piece) of the fabric shell 701 of the slipcover body 601. In the embodiments where the gusset 706 includes more than one gusset piece such as the first gusset piece 706a, the second gusset piece 706b, and the third gusset piece 706c. The gusset pieces may be connected together. In certain embodiments a first gusset piece 706a includes a first end connected to the first piece 704 and/or second piece 708. A second end opposite the first end may connect to a first end of a second gusset piece 706b. The second gusset piece 706b may have a second end of the second gusset piece 706b connected to a first end of a third gusset piece 706c. The third gusset piece 706c may include a second end of the third gusset piece 706c opposite the first end of the third gusset piece 706c that is connected to the first piece 704 and/or the second piece 708. A first side of the first gusset piece 706a, the second gusset piece 706b, and the third gusset piece 706c that extends between the ends of the respective gusset pieces 706 may connect to the first piece 704. A second side of the first gusset piece 706a, the second gusset piece 706b, and the third gusset piece 706c opposite the side of the first side and extending between the ends of the respective gusset pieces 706 may connect to the second piece 708. The gusset 706, the first piece 704, and/or the second piece 708 may be connected by seams. Seams may be formed where the gusset 706 is sewn to the first piece 704 and the second piece 708. In certain embodiments, the seams may be configured to withstand at least 15 pounds of tension force. The seam strength can help ensure that the support pillow can be enclosed within the shell 701 such that a desired firmness is achieved without bursting the seam. The seam strength may prevent tears to the slipcover and thereby may protect the support pillow from being damaged.
The gusset 706 may extend along a mid-plane of the cover body 601. The gusset 706 may extend around the inner periphery 616 and the outer periphery 618 of the slipcover body 601. The gusset 706 may have ends with respective edges that are sewn to the second piece 708. The end of the gusset 706 may be sewn to the second piece 708 at the back of the cover body 601. In certain embodiments, the entire width or substantially all (e.g., 80%, 90%, 95%) of the width of the gusset end is sewn to the second piece 708. The width of the gusset 706 between the gusset ends may be constant or may taper. In certain embodiments, the width of a gusset piece is smallest near the middle of the gusset piece (e.g., second gusset piece 706b) between the gusset ends. Different gusset pieces that form the gusset 706 may have different dimensions than one or more of the other gusset pieces that form the gusset 706.
The opening ends 720 may have any number of backstitches over a seam joining the first piece 704 and the second piece 708. In certain embodiments, two or more back stitches are used. The back stitches may be used to prevent the opening from tearing and becoming bigger during insertions and removal of a pillow from/to the slipcover 600. A fabric brace may be used in addition to or as an alternative to the back stitches. A fabric brace may be placed on the inside of the fabric shell 701 (the side with the pillow) and stitched to the first piece 704 and the second piece 708. The fabric brace may be included at one or both opening ends 720. In certain embodiments, the fastener 712 is coupled to an elongated flap of the second piece 708 (e.g., described further with respect to
The first slipcover arm 604a and the second slipcover arm 604b may have a length in the range from between about 5 inches to about 12 inches, in some cases from about 6 inches to about 9 inches, and in other cases from about 7 inches to about 8 inches. The length of the slipcover arms 604 may be measured in a similar fashion as the first pillow arm 204a and the second pillow arm 204b as described above. For example, the slipcover arm 604 length may be measured from a free slipcover end 606 of a respective slipcover arm 604 to a furthest portion of the inner periphery 616 measured along the axis 210c described above.
Although not illustrated with the slipcover 600, in certain embodiments, a strap may be connected to the slipcover 600. The strap may connect to the gusset 706 of the slipcover 600, the first piece 704, and/or the second piece 708. The strap may include two or more ends. The strap may be made of material including, but not limited to, nylon, polyester, polypropylene, Cordura, leather, mesh, cotton, wool, rayon, and/or neoprene. The strap may be configured to detachably connect with the slipcover. The strap may be configured to detachably connect to at least one of: the outer periphery 618 of the first slipcover arm 604a or the outer periphery 618 of the second slipcover arm 604b. The strap may detachably connect to a connector (e.g., a belt connector). The connector may be connected (e.g., sewn) to the slipcover 600. In certain embodiments, one or more portions of the strap may be connected (e.g., sewn) to the slipcover 600 and not be detachable. In certain embodiments, the strap may include a belt stop snapper described further herein.
The first piece 704 may form a top of the slipcover 600. The first piece 704 may be made of any of the materials used to construct the fabric shell 701. The first piece 704 may be U-shaped in geometry. In certain embodiments, the first piece 704 may have a width between about 12 inches to about 19 inches, in some cases from about 14 inches to about 17 inches, and in other cases from about 15 inches to about 16 inches. In certain embodiments, the first piece 704 may have a length between about 20 inches to about 27 inches, in some cases from about 22 inches to about 25 inches, and in other cases from about 23 inches to about 24 inches.
The second piece 708 may form a bottom of the slipcover 600. The second piece 708 may be made of any of the materials the fabric shell 701 is made of. The second piece 708 may include a U-shaped section that corresponds in geometry to the first piece 704. The second piece 708 may include an elongated flap 810 extending from a rear side of the U-shaped section. The elongated flap 810 may be coupled with the first piece 704 and/or the gusset 706. The elongated piece may be coupled to a fastener 712. The fastener 712 may be coupled to the first piece 704. The first piece 704 and the second piece 708 may be positioned such that the first piece 704 and the second piece 708 form an opening along the back of the slipcover 600. The first piece 704 and the elongated flap 810 of the second piece 708 may form an opening along the back of the slipcover 600. The zipper or other fastener 712 may be placed along the opening and may enable the opening to be closed. In certain embodiments, the second piece 708 may have a length between about 20 inches to about 27 inches, in some cases from about 22 inches to about 25 inches, and in other cases from about 23 inches to about 24 inches.
The elongated flap 810 may include a first flap end 812a and a second flap end 812b. The first flap end 812a may be sewn to the gusset 706 (first gusset piece 706a). The second flap end 812b may be opposite of the first flap end 812a and the second flap end 812b may be sewn to the gusset 706 (e.g., the third gusset piece 706c). The first piece 704 may be sewn to the second piece along the elongated flap 810.
The gusset 706 may be sewn to the first piece 704, the second piece 708, and the elongated flap 810 of the second piece 708. The gusset 706 may be connected (e.g., via stitching) to the first piece 704 and the second piece 708. The gusset 706 may extend around the inner periphery 616 of the support pillow. The gusset 706 may partially (e.g., 50%), mostly (e.g., 60%, 70%, 80%), or completely extend around the outer periphery 618 of the support pillow.
In certain embodiments, the first gusset piece 706a and the third gusset piece 706c have a length of between about 10 inches to about 16 inches, in some cases from about 11.5 inches to about 14 inches, and in other cases from about 12.5 inches to about 13 inches. The first gusset piece 706a and the third gusset piece 706c may have a width of between about 1 inch to about 4.5 inches, in some cases from about 2 inches to about 3.5 inches, and in other cases from about 2.5 inches to about 3.0 inches at a first end. The first ends may connect to opposite ends of the elongated end of the second piece 708. The first gusset piece 706a and the third gusset piece 706c may have a width of between about 0.5 inches to about 3.5 inches, in some cases from about 1 inches to about 2.5 inches, and in other cases from about 1.5 inches to about 2 inches at a second end opposite of the first end. The second end may connect to opposite ends of the second gusset piece 706b.
The first gusset piece 706a and the third gusset piece 706c piece may have the same dimensions or substantially the same dimensions. The second gusset piece 706b may have a length between about 30 inches to about 40 inches, in some cases from about 32 inches to about 38 inches, and in other cases from about 33 inches to about 36 inches. The second gusset piece 706b may have a width between about 0.5 inches to about 3.5 inches, in some cases from about 1 inch to about 2.5 inches, and in other cases from about 1.5 inches to about 2.0 inches.
In certain embodiments, the first end of the gusset 706 and the second end of the gusset 706 may have a width between about 1 inch to about 5 inches, in some cases from about 2 inches to about 4 inches, and in other cases from about 2.5 inches and 3 inches. In certain embodiments, at least one piece of the gusset may have a tapered shape. In certain embodiments, a center region of the gusset located between the first end of the gusset and the second end of the gusset may have a width about 0.05 inches to about 5 inches, in some cases from about 1 inch to about 4 inches, and in other cases from about 2 inches to about 3 inches. In some embodiments, the gusset has a width that is substantially the same along the length of the gusset. The length of the gusset may be between about 47 inches to about 67 inches, in some cases from about 51 inches to about 63 inches, and in other cases from about 55 inches to about 59 inches.
The cover body 1001 may have a slipcover medial region 1002, a first slipcover arm 1004a, a second slipcover arm 1004b, a first free slipcover end 1028a, and a second free slipcover end 1028b. The first slipcover arm 1004a and the second slipcover arm 1004b may extend from the slipcover medial region 1002 to define an outer periphery 1026 and an inner periphery 1024. The cover body 1001 may define an open interior that is adapted to receive the pillow. The cover body 1001 may have similar dimensions to a support pillow such that the slipcover 1000 may be placed around the support pillow.
The cover body 1001 defines a vertical axis 210b within a curved support cavity about which the cover body 1001 curves. The cover body 1001 also has an outer peripheral edge 1022 and an inner peripheral edge 1020. Slipcover 1000 illustrates the outer peripheral edge 1022 and inner peripheral edge 1020 may both curve about the vertical axis 210b defined by the cover body 1001, although in other instances only one of the outer peripheral edge 1022 or inner peripheral edge 1020 may curve about the vertical axis 210b. A curvature of the outer peripheral edge 1022 may correlate or correspond with a curvature of the inner peripheral edge 1020. The outer peripheral edge 1022 and/or the inner peripheral edge 1020 may be rounded along axis 210a and axis 210c.
The slipcover medial region 1002 may be substantially straight (e.g., a center line running less than ten degrees off of axis 210c). In certain embodiments, the slipcover medial region 1002 may have a length between about 20 inches to about 27 inches, in some cases from about 22 inches to about 25 inches, and in other cases from about 23 inches to about 24 inches. In certain embodiments, the slipcover 1000 may have a length that is smaller or larger so that it may be placed around other sizes of pillows.
The length of the slipcover medial region 1002 may extend along an axis 210a perpendicular to a different axis 210c that the first slipcover arm 1004a and/or the second slipcover arm 1004b extend along. The slipcover medial region 1002 may include rounded edges that curve toward a gusset of the slipcover 1000. In certain embodiments, the slipcover medial region 1002 may be configured to receive a portion of a pillow with a thickness greater than the thickness of the pillow portion the first free slipcover end 1028a and/or the second free slipcover end 1028b is configured to receive. In certain embodiments, the slipcover medial region 1002 may be configured to receive a portion of a pillow with a thickness substantially the same (e.g., less than 0.5 inches difference) as the thickness of the pillow portion the first free slipcover end 1028a and/or the second free slipcover end 1028b is configured to receive.
The first slipcover arm 1004a and/or the second slipcover arm 1004b may be substantially straight. The first slipcover arm 1004a may be parallel with respect to the second slipcover arm 1004b. The first slipcover arm 1004a and/or the second slipcover arm 1004b may extend along axis 210c and in a direction perpendicular to axis 210a. In certain embodiments, the first slipcover arm 1004a and/or the second slipcover arm 1004b extend between about 5 inches to about 12 inches, in some cases from about 6 inches to about 9 inches, and in other cases from about 7 inches to about 8 inches from the medial region 1002.
The first slipcover arm 1004a may include a first free slipcover end 1028a opposite of the slipcover medial region 1002 the first slipcover arm 1004a extends from. The second slipcover arm 1004b may include a second free slipcover end 1028b opposite of the slipcover medial region 1002 the second slipcover arm 1004b extends from. The first free slipcover end 1028a and/or the second free slipcover end 1028b may be configured to receive a blunt free pillow end. A distance between the first free slipcover end 1028a and the second free slipcover end 1028b measured along the axis 210a may be at least 8 inches. In certain embodiments, the slipcover 1000 comprises a width between about 13 inches to about 22 inches, in some cases from about 15 inches to about 20 inches, and in other cases from about 17 inches to about 18 inches. The width may be measured along axis 210c and may include the combined width of the first slipcover arm 1004a and the slipcover medial region 1002 width.
The shape and size of the slipcover 1000 improves a caregiver's ability to properly position an infant or baby while feeding the infant or baby in a safe and efficient manner. The slipcover 1000 is designed to comfortably serve consumers of all body types and infants or babies of all ages. Comfort can be achieved, in part, by the formation of the curved support cavity defined by the inner periphery 1024. The support cavity may define an average radius of curvature of at least between 4.5 inches and 7.5 inches. Comfort can be achieved, in part, by a curved design that conforms to a caregiver's body. The fabric shell 1101 of the slipcover body 1001 may include any material combination of polyester, cotton, polyester microfiber, other microfiber, linen, silk, wool, nylon, rayon, or satin. One having ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of the present disclosure would recognize other materials that may be used in the described embodiments. In certain embodiments, the fabric shell 1101 includes 100% polyester microfiber. The fabric shell 1101 can receive a pillow such as the support pillow described above (e.g., support pillow 200).
The cover body 1001 may include the bolster 1008 at the outer periphery 1026 extending along a majority of the slipcover medial region 1002. The bolster may protrude away from the slipcover medial region 1002. The bolster 1008 may protrude away from the slipcover medial region 1002 in a direction at least partially along axis 210b. The back portion 1016 of bolster 1008 may slope backward from the first surface of the slipcover medial region 1002 at an angle in a range from about 900 to about 1000 off of axis 210c. The front portion 1014 of bolster 1008 may slope backward from the first surface of the slipcover medial region 1002 at an angle in a range from about 350 to about 40° off axis 210c. Certain embodiments may include any number of bolsters. Bolsters may be included on the bottom of the cover body 1001 to increase comfort or angling for the user. Bolsters may be included to support different body parts while the pillow is in use.
The slipcover 1000 may include a back portion 1016 and a front portion 1014. The front portion 1014 may be joined (e.g., connected) with a top surface of the cover body 1001 and the back portion 1016 may be joined with the top surface of the cover body 1001. The front portion 1014 may be joined to the front surface via stitching (e.g., sewn). The cover body 1001 may include a seam joining the front portion 1014 and the top surface that has a length between about 20 inches to about 30 inches, in some cases from about 23 inches to about 28 inches, and in other cases from about 25 inches to about 26 inches.
In certain embodiments, the bolster 1008 includes a padding material. The padding material may be any of the padding materials/fill materials described above. The amount of fill material may be such that the bolster 1008 reaches a prescribed firmness where a force of at least 10 Newtons is required to displace a 3-inch diameter hemispheric probe one inch into the fabric shell 1101. In certain embodiments, the bolster may be built into the cover body 1001 as a bolster shell such that the slipcover medial region 1002 can receive a portion of the pillow. When enclosing a pillow, the slipcover may have a firmness where a force of at least 10 Newtons is required to displace a 3-inch diameter hemispheric probe one inch into the fabric shell 1101 of the slipcover body 1001.
In certain embodiments, a strap 1010 may be connected to the slipcover 1000. The strap 1010 may connect to a gusset of the slipcover 1000, the first surface, and/or the second surface. The strap 1010 may include two or more ends. The strap 1010 may be made of material including, but not limited to, nylon, polyester, polypropylene, Cordura, leather, mesh, cotton, wool, rayon, and/or neoprene. The strap 1010 may be configured to detachably connect with the slipcover 1000. The strap 1010 may be configured to detachably connect to at least one of: the outer periphery 1026 of the first slipcover arm 1004a or the outer periphery 1026 of the second slipcover arm 1004b. The strap 1010 may detachably connect to a connector (e.g., a belt connector 1006). The connector may be connected (e.g., sewn) to the slipcover 1000). The connector may be connected to a connector tab 1018 of the slipcover body 1001.
In certain embodiments, the cover body 1001 includes a pocket 1012. The pocket 1012 may be used to secure the connector and/or at least a portion of the connector tab 1018 when the connector is not connected with a connector of the strap 1010. The pocket 1012 may prevent the connector and/or connector tab(s) 1018 of the slipcover 1000 from being damaged, coming in contact with a user or infant, and/or getting caught on other objects. The pocket 1012 may be one of multiple pockets that are part of the slipcover body 1001. The pocket 1012 may be used to secure other objects (e.g., a bib, bottles, storage bags, etc.). In an example, cover body 1001 includes a pocket 1012a along the second bolstered slipcover arm 1004 and a second pocket alone first bolstered slipcover arm 1004a. Each of the two pockets may be configured to secure a connector (e.g., a connector of strap 1010) and/or a connector tab 1018.
The pocket 1012 may include an opening running along the gusset. The opening may run along a portion of the gusset width or the full width of the gusset. The pocket 1012 may be located on the outer periphery 1026 of at least one of the arms. For example, the illustrated example shows pocket 1012a running along the width of the gusset on the outer periphery 1026 of the second slipcover arm 1004b. The pocket 1012a includes an opening that at least a portion of the connector tab 1018b may be inserted into (e.g., by a user). The pocket 1012a includes an opening that the belt connector 1006a connected to the connector tab 1018b may be inserted into. The connector tab 1018 may be made from a fabric panel and may be configured to withstand at least a 20 pound static load. The connector tab 1018 may also be joined with the gusset.
The gusset 1106 may be strips or sections of material that are sewn to the first surface 1104 (e.g., a top piece) and the second surface 1108 (e.g., a bottom piece) of the fabric shell 1101 of the slipcover body 1001. Portions of the gusset 1106 may be sewn to at least a portion of the bolster 1008 (e.g., a back portion of the bolster). In the embodiments where the gusset 1106 includes more than one gusset piece such as a first gusset piece 1106a, a second gusset piece 1106b, and a third gusset piece 1106c, ends of the gusset pieces may be connected together. In certain embodiments, a first gusset piece 1106a includes a first end connected to the first surface 1104 and/or second surface 1108. A second end opposite the first end may connect to a first end of the second gusset piece 1106b. The second gusset piece 1106b may have a second end of the second gusset piece 1106b connected to a first gusset end of the third gusset piece 1106c. The third gusset piece 1106c may include a second end of the third gusset piece 1106c opposite the first end of the third gusset piece 1106c that is connected to the first surface 1104 and/or the second surface 1108. A first side of the first gusset piece 1106a, the second gusset piece 1106b, and the third gusset piece 1106c that extends between the ends of the respective gusset pieces may connect to the first surface 1104. A second side of the first gusset piece 1106a, the second gusset piece 1106b, and the third gusset piece 1106c opposite the side of the first side and extending between the ends of the respective gusset pieces may connect to the second surface 1108.
The gusset 1106, the first surface 1104, the second surface 1108, and/or the bolster 1008 may be connected by seams. Seams may be formed where fabric pieces are connected (e.g., where the gusset 1106 is sewn to the first surface 1104 and the second surface 1108). In certain embodiments, the seams may be configured to withstand at least 15 pounds of tension force. The gusset 1106 may extend along a mid-plane of the cover body 1001. The gusset 1106 may extend around the inner periphery 1024 and the outer periphery 1026 of the slipcover body 1001. The gusset 1106 may have ends with respective edges that are sewn to the second surface 1108. The end of the gusset 1106 may be sewn to the second surface 1108 at the back of the slipcover body 1001. In certain embodiments, the entire width or substantially all of the width of the gusset end is sewn to the second surface 1108. The width of the gusset 1106 between the gusset ends may be constant or may taper (e.g., have a width of about 3 inches at the gusset ends and a width of about 2 inches near the middle). In certain embodiments, the width of a gusset piece is smallest near the middle of the gusset piece between the gusset ends. Different gusset pieces that form the gusset 1106 may have different dimensions than one or more of the other gusset pieces that form the gusset 1106.
The bolster 1008 may be formed by at least a back portion 1016 and a front portion 1014 being joined. The front portion 1014 may be joined with the first surface 1104 and the back portion 1016. The front portion 1014 may be joined with the first surface 1104 by a seam with a length between about 20 inches to about 30 inches, in some cases from about 23 inches to about 28 inches, and in other cases from about 25 inches to about 26 inches in length. The center of the front portion 1014 of the bolster 1008 may be between about 1 inch to about 4 inches, in some cases from about 1.5 inches to about 3 inches, and in other cases from about 2 inches to about 2.5 inches. The back portion 1016 may be joined with at least a portion of the second surface 1108 and/or the gusset 1106.
The first surface 1104 may be joined with a fastener 1112 (e.g., a zipper). The fastener 1112 may be configured in a similar way to the fasteners described herein above (e.g., fastener 712). The fastener 1112 may be positioned along an opening. The fastener 1112 can be joined with the first surface 1104 and the second surface 1108 using a seam stitched with double back stitching. The opening may be an opening between the first surface 1104 and the second surface 1108. The opening may be between the second surface 1108 and the back portion 1016 of the bolster 1008. The opening may have opening ends 1120 spaced between about 24 inches to about 32 inches, in some cases from about 26 inches to about 30 inches, and in other cases from about 27.5 inches to about 28.5 inches apart. The fastener 1112 may be configured to close and/or open the opening through which the pillow is insertable.
The opening ends 1120 may have any number of backstitches over a seam joining the first surface 1104 and the second surface 1108. In certain embodiments, two or more back stitches are used. The back stitches may be used to prevent the opening from tearing and becoming bigger during insertions and removal of a pillow from/to the slipcover 1000. A fabric brace may be used in addition to or as an alternative to the back stitches. A fabric brace may be placed on the inside of the fabric shell 1101 (the side with the inserted pillow) and stitched to the first surface 1104 and the second surface 1108. The fabric brace may be included at one or both opening ends 1120. In certain embodiments, the fastener 1112 is coupled to an elongated flap of the second surface (e.g., described further with respect to
The first bolstered slipcover arm 1004a and the second bolstered slipcover arm 1004b may extend in the range from about 5 inches to about 12 inches, in some cases from about 6 inches to about 10 inches, and in other cases from about 7 inches and 8 inches. The extension of the slipcover arms 1004 may be measured in a similar fashion as the first pillow arm 204a and the second pillow arm 204b as described above. For example, the slipcover arm 1004 length may be measured from a free slipcover end of a respective slipcover arm 1004 to a middle portion of the inner periphery 1024 and/or front center portion of the slipcover medial region 1002.
The bolster 1008 typically has an arcuate or curved shape corresponding to the arcuate or curved shape of the slipcover body 1001. More specifically, the curve of the bolster 1008 may be the same as the curve of the outer peripheral edge 1022 and/or back of the first surface 1104. The bolster 1008 may extend along a majority a length of the slipcover body 1001 along an axis 210. In some embodiments, the bolster 1008 could extend along between 60 and 90 percent of this length, between 65 to 85 percent of this length, or between 70 and 80 percent of this length. In some instances, the bolster 1008 may extend along the entire length of the slipcover body 1001.
The first surface 1104 may form a top of the slipcover 1000. The first surface 1104 may be made of any of the materials the fabric shell 1101 is made of. The first surface 1104 may be U-shaped in geometry. In certain embodiments, the first surface 1104 may have a first surface width between about 14 inches to about 21 inches, in some cases from about 16 inches to about 19 inches, and in other cases from about 17 inches to about 18 inches. In certain embodiments, the first surface may have a first surface length between about 20 inches to about 27 inches, in some cases from about 22 inches to about 25 inches, and in other cases from about 23 inches to about 24 inches.
The second surface 1108 form a bottom of the slipcover 1000. The second surface 1108 may be made of any of the materials the fabric shell 1101 is made of. The second surface 1108 may include a U-shaped section that corresponds in geometry to the first surface 1104. The second surface 1108 may include an elongated flap 1220 extending from a rear side of the U-shaped section. The elongated flap 1220 may be coupled with the first surface 1104, the gusset 1106, and or the bolster (e.g., the back portion 1016 of the bolster 1008). The elongated flap 1220 may be coupled to a fastener. The fastener may be coupled to the first surface 1104. The first surface 1104 and the second surface 1108 may be positioned such that the first surface 1104 and the second surface 1108 form an opening along the back of the slipcover 1000. The first surface 1104 and the elongated flap 1220 of the second surface 1108 may form an opening along the back of the slipcover 1000. A zipper or other fastener may be placed along the opening and may enable the opening to be closed and/or opened.
The elongated flap 1220 may include a first flap end 1222a and a second flap end 1222b. The first flap end 1222a may be sewn to the gusset 1106 (e.g., first gusset piece 1106a). The second flap end 1222b may be opposite of the first flap end 1222a and the second flap end 1222b may be sewn to the gusset 1106 (e.g., the third gusset piece 1106c). The first surface 1104 may be sewn to the second surface 1108 along the elongated flap 1220.
The gusset 1106 may be sewn to the first surface 1104, the second surface 1108, and the elongated flap 12220 of the second surface 1108. The gusset 1106 may be connected (e.g., via stitching) to the first surface 1104 and the second surface 1108. The gusset 1106 may extend around the inner periphery 1024 of the slipcover body 1001. The gusset 1106 may partially (e.g., 50%), mostly (e.g., 60%, 70%, 80%), or completely extend around the outer periphery 1026 of the slipcover body 1001.
In certain embodiments, the first gusset piece 1106a and the third gusset piece 1106c have a length of between about 9 inches to about 16 inches, in some cases from about 11 inches to about 14 inches, and in other cases from about 12 inches to about 13 inches. The first gusset piece 1106a and the third gusset piece 1106c may have a width at a first end between about 0.5 inches to about 5.5 inches, in some cases from about 1.5 inches to about 4.5 inches, and in other cases from about 2.5 inches to about 3.5 inches. The first ends may connect to opposite ends of the elongated end of the second surface 1108. The first gusset piece 1106a and the third gusset piece 1106c may have a width at a second end opposite of the first end between about 0.5 inches to about 3.5 inches, in some cases from about 1 inch to about 2.5 inches, and in other cases from about 1.5 inches to about 2 inches. The second end may connect to opposite ends of the second gusset piece 1106b. The first gusset piece 1106a and the third gusset piece 1106c may have the same dimensions or substantially the same dimensions. The second gusset piece 1106b may have a length between about 29 inches to about 40 inches, in some cases from about 31 inches to about 38 inches, and in other cases from about 33 inches to about 36 inches. The second gusset piece 1106b may have a width between about 0.5 inches to about 3.5 inches, in some cases from about 1 inch to about 2.5 inches, and in other cases from about 1.5 inches to about 2 inches.
In certain embodiments, the first end of the gusset 1106 and the second end of the gusset 1106 may have a width between about 0.5 inches to about 5.5 inches, in some cases from about 1.5 inches to about 4.5 inches, and in other cases from about 2.5 inches to about 3.5 inches. In certain embodiments, at least one piece of the gusset 1106 may have a tapered shape. In certain embodiments, a center region of the gusset 1106 located between the first end of the gusset 1106 and the second end of the gusset 1106 may have a width about 0.5 inches to about 5 inches, in some cases from about 1 inch to about 3.5 inches, and in other cases from about 1.5 inches to about 2.5 inches. In some embodiments, the gusset 1106 has a width that is substantially consistent along the length of the gusset 1106. The length of the gusset 1106 may be between about 47 inches to about 67 inches, in some cases from about 51 inches to about 63 inches, and in other cases from about 55 inches to about 59 inches.
Any number of pockets and pocket pieces 1212 may be included in the fabric shell 1101. In the illustrated embodiments, two pocket pieces 1212 and pockets are shown. The pocket pieces 1212 may be configured as described above. The pocket pieces 1212 may be sewn to the fabric shell 1101. A pocket piece 1212 may be joined to the outer periphery 1026 of the arm 1004 of the slipcover 1000. The pocket 1012 may be formed by joining edges of the pocket piece 1212 with the fabric shell 1101. The pocket piece 1212 may have an edge that is not joined with the fabric shell 1101 such that an opening to the pocket is created. The pocket 1012 may be configured such that connectors or other items are capable of being stored within the space within the pocket.
In certain embodiments, the pocket piece 1212 may have a length between about 6.5 inches to about 11.5 inches, in some cases from about 7.5 inches to about 10.5 inches, and in other cases from about 8.5 inches to about 9.5 inches. The pocket piece 1212 may be folded in mostly equal halves so the length of each half is between about 3 inches to about 6 inches, in some cases from about 4 inches to about 5 inches, and in other cases from about 4.25 inches to about 4.75 inches. In certain embodiments, the pocket piece 1212 is not folded in half and is between about 3 inches to about 6 inches, in some cases from about 4 inches to about 5 inches, and in other cases from about 4.25 inches to about 4.75 inches. The pocket piece may be sewn to the fabric shell 1101 such that the pocket piece 1212 in combination with the fabric shell 1101 forms a pocket with an opening. In certain embodiments, the narrow edge of the pocket piece 1212 may have a width between about 0.5 inches to about 4 inches, in some cases from about 1 inches to about 3 inches, and in other cases from about 1.5 inches to about 2.5 inches.
The connector tabs 1018 may be joined with the fabric shell 1101 and a connector (e.g., a belt connector). The connector tabs 1018 may have a length between about 2.5 inches to about 6.5 inches, in some cases from about 2.5 inches to about 5.5 inches, and in other cases from about 3.5 inches to about 4.5 inches. A connector tab 1018 may be passed through the connector such that the connector tab remains movement bound by the connector tab 1018. The ends of the connector tab 1018 may be joined to the fabric shell 1101. The fabric shell 1101 and/or the connector may be configured to withstand at least a 10, 20, or 30 pound static load.
The bolster may include the front portion 1014 and the back portion 1016. The front portion 1014 may be joined with the first surface 1104. The front portion 1014 may be U-shaped in geometry. The front portion 1014 may include a first narrowing end 1210a and a second narrowing end 1210b. The first narrowing end 1210a may be joined with the fabric shell 1101 in a portion such that the first narrowing end 1210a is closer to a first arm 1004a than a second arm 1004b of the slipcover 1000. The second narrowing end 1210b may be opposite of the first narrowing end 1210a. The second narrowing end 1210b may be joined with the fabric shell 1101 in a portion such that the second narrowing end 1210b is closer to the second arm 1004b than the first arm 1004a of the slipcover 1000. The front portion 1014 may include a center portion between the first narrowing end 1210a and the second narrowing end 1210b with a width between about 1 inch to about 6 inches, in some cases from about 2 inches to about 5 inches, and in other cases from 3 inches to about 4 inches. The front portion 1014 may be joined with the first surface 1104 by a seam with a length between about 20 inches to about 31 inches, in some cases from about 23 inches to about 28 inches, and in other cases from about 25.00 inches to about 26.00 inches. The front portion 1014 may be joined with the first surface 1104 along the concave shaped portion of the front portion.
The back portion 1016 may be joined with the front portion 1014, the first surface 1104 and/or with a fastener. The back portion 1016 may include a first edge 1214a and a second edge 1214b of substantially the same length spanning the width of the back portion 1016. The back portion 1016 may include a third edge 1214c running between the first edge 1214a and the second edge 1214b. The third edge 1214c may be joined to the front portion 1014, the first surface 1104 and/or with a fastener. The third edge 1214c may have a length between about 18 inches to about 32 inches, in some cases from about 20 inches to about 30 inches, and in other cases from about 22 to about 28 inches long. In certain embodiments, the third edge 1214c has a length between about 21 inches to about 30 inches, in some cases from about 24 inches to about 27 inches, and in other cases from about 25 inches to about 26 inches. The back portion 1016 may include a fourth edge opposite the third edge 1214c. The fourth edge may be opposite the third edge 1214c by between about 1 inches to about 4.5 inches, in some cases from about 2 inches to about 3.5 inches, and in other cases from about 2.55 inches to about 3 inches.
In other words, the back portion 1016 may have a width along the first edge 1214a the second edge 1214b of around about 1 inch to about 5 inches, in some cases from about 1.5 inches to about 4 inches, and in other cases from about 2 inches to about 3 inches. The back portion 1016 may have a width near the center of the length of the back portion 1016 of the back portion of about 1 inch to about 6 inches, in some cases from about 2 inches to about 5 inches, and in other cases from about 3 to about 4 inches. The fourth edge may be coupled with the front portion 1014. The first edge 1214a and the second edge 1214b may have substantially the same length between about 1 inch to about 5.5 inches, in some cases from about 1.5 inches to about 4.5 inches, and in other cases from about 2.50 inches to about 3.5 inches. The bolster may be configured to enclose an amount of a fill material that provides substantially all of the bolster placed about the fill material with a prescribed firmness where a force of at least 10 Newtons is required to displace a 3-inch diameter hemispheric probe one inch into the bolster placed about the fill material. In certain embodiments, bolster may have a firmness such that the 3-inch diameter hemispheric probe can be pressed against bolster with up to 10 Newtons of force for at least 30 seconds with the bolster deflecting by 1 inch or less. For some uses, the firmness of the bolster will be greater than the above described firmness, while for other uses, the firmness may be less than the above prescribed firmness.
The slipcover 1000 may include any number of straps 1010 (e.g., zero or more). A strap 1010 may have a width between 1.4 inches and 1.9 inches. The strap 1010 may have a length between about 41 inches to about 53 inches, in some cases from about 44 inches to about 50 inches, and in other cases from about 46 inches to about 48 inches. The strap 1010 may include a belt stop snapper. The belt stop snapper can limit the length that the strap 1010 can be tightened and prevents the first free end 1028a of the first slipcover arm 1004a and the second free end 1028b of the second slipcover arm 1004b from touching. In certain embodiments, the belt stop snapper is included between about 9 inches to about 17 inches from an end of the strap 1010, in some cases from about 11 inches to about 15 inches from an end of the strap 1010, and in other cases from about 12.5 inches to about 13.5 inches from an end of the strap 1010. The belt stop snapper may include a material with a thickness greater than the thickness allowed to pass through an opening the strap 1010 passes through. The opening may be included in the connector (e.g., belt connector).
The fifth cross section view 1308 further illustrates the bolster. The bolster may have a cross sectional circular portion perimeter. The cross sectional circular portion perimeter of the bolster may be between about 1.5 inches to about 5.5 inches, in some cases from about 1.5 inches to about 4.5 inches, and in other cases from about 2.5 inches to about 3.5 inches. The bolster is illustrated as including a volume of fill material 502 that is distinct from the volume of space the slipcover 1000 may receive the support pillow 200 into. In such embodiments, the fill material 502 of the bolster may be the same or different type of fill material 502 than used by the support pillow 200. The bolster may be filled such that the firmness of the bolster is the same or different firmness as the support pillow 200. In certain embodiments, the bolster may be configured to receive a portion of the support pillow 200 received by the slipcover body 1001.
Slipcover 1000 is depicted on a lap of the user 1302. Slipcover 1000 may be secured around the waist of the user 1302 via a strap/belt that is connected to one or more belt connectors 1006 (e.g., belt connector 1006a). The user 1302 is shown seated, with the slipcover 1000 on their lap and a strap connected to arms 1004 of the slipcover 1000 and running around the waist of the user 1302. A support cavity of the inner periphery 1024 of the slipcover 1000 may be positioned around at least a portion of the user 1302. The support cavity may be in contact with the torso of user 1302. The slipcover 1000 may support a baby while nursing, feeding or the like. In so doing, the slipcover 1000—may be used to support a portion (e.g., a head) of the baby higher than other portions of the baby.
The shape of the pillow and slipcover 1000 may fit most users of a variety of sizes and shapes. In use, the user 1302 may initially position slipcover 1000 to support the baby but desire to have the baby's head at a higher or lower height for ease of nursing the baby. The user 1302 may rotate the slipcover 1000 around their torso until the thickness of the slipcover 1000 provides a desired height for nursing the baby.
In use, portions of the slipcover 1000 may curve around the front and side of the user 1302 and provides support for an arm, elbow, or hand of the user 1302. In some examples, the slipcover 1000 may be positioned in other arrangements around the user 1302 to provide support to different parts of the user 1302 and/or the baby. In certain embodiments, a slipcover without a bolster encloses the support pillow. In certain embodiments, a pillow (e.g., without a slipcover, with or without a bolster) may be used by the user 1302.
The pillows described herein may be manufactured by joining pieces and/or portions of fabric together to form a fabric shell. The fabric shell may include an opening which a nozzle is capable of being inserted into. The nozzle may blow fill material into the fabric shell. The opening may then be closed (e.g., using a fastener and/or stitching). The fastener may be configured to enable the opening to be subsequently opened and closed again. In certain embodiments, the fastener may be configured to prevent the opening from being subsequently opened.
The slipcovers described herein may be manufactured by joining pieces and/or portions of fabric together to form a fabric shell. The joining may be performed using stitching, braces, backstitching, etc. The fabric shell may be configured to receive a pillow such as any of the pillows described herein.
A bolster, such as the bolster that may be included in the bolstered slipcover may be manufactured by joining pieces and/or portions of fabric together to form a fabric shell, the fabric shell may define an interior. The interior may include a portion corresponding to the bolster. The portion of the interior corresponding to the bolster may have fill material inserted into it (e.g., blown into it using a nozzle, or by hand) before the portion of the interior corresponding to the bolster is closed off from the other portion(s) of the interior. Closing off the portion of the interior corresponding to the bolster may result in a bolster that includes fill material and a remaining open interior that can receive a pillow.
In certain embodiments, a slipcover without a bolster is formed by joining the fabric surfaces and/or pieces together and the bolster formed separately before being joined with the slipcover to create the bolstered slipcover. The bolster may be filled through an end or other opening before or after being joined with the slipcover. In certain embodiments, the bolster is filled, sealed, and then joined with a slipcover to create the bolstered slipcover.
Having described several example configurations, various modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents may be used without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. For example, the above elements may be components of a larger system, wherein other rules may take precedence over or otherwise modify the application of the invention. Also, a number of steps may be undertaken before, during, or after the above elements are considered.
Other variations are within the spirit of the present disclosure. Thus, while the disclosed techniques are susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, certain illustrated embodiments thereof are shown in the drawings and have been described above in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the disclosure to the specific form or forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure, as defined in the appended claims.
The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in the context of describing the disclosed embodiments (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. The term “connected” is to be construed as partly or wholly contained within, attached to, or joined together, even if there is something intervening. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate embodiments of the disclosure and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the disclosure unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the disclosure.
Disjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, or Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is intended to be understood within the context as used in general to present that an item, term, etc., may be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (e.g., X, Y, and/or Z). Thus, such disjunctive language is not generally intended to, and should not, imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z to each be present.
Preferred embodiments of this disclosure are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the disclosure. Variations of those preferred embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate and the inventors intend for the disclosure to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.
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