Bed bumper apparatus

The present bed bumper apparatus includes an elongate body that is resilient and flexible, an inner cover enclosing an entirety of the elongate body such that the elongate body is removable from the inner cover only by destroying an integrity of the inner cover, an outer cover enclosing an entirety of the inner cover having the elongate body, and a flexible strap engaged to the outer cover and having a quick release buckle and length adjuster such that the bed bumper can be engaged to a mattress at an edge of the mattress to minimize a person from rolling off the mattress.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to apparatus that minimize persons from falling out of bed, and particularly to where such apparatus is a bumper disposed at the side of a mattress.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A bed bumper is an apparatus that is disposed at the side of a mattress to minimize the chance that a person sleeping on the mattress rolls off the side of the mattress. The bed bumper is typically placed between a fitted sheet and the top side of a mattress and is permitted to float freely under the fitted sheet and on the top side of the mattress.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A feature of the present invention is a bed bumper apparatus.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of an elongate body that is resilient and flexible, where the elongate body includes first and second body ends.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of an inner cover, where the inner cover is flexible, where the inner cover encloses an entirety of the elongate body such that the elongate body is inaccessible to the touch and such that the elongate body is removable from the inner cover only by destroying an integrity of the inner cover.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of an outer cover, where the outer cover is flexible, where the outer cover encloses an entirety of the inner cover and elongate body, and where the outer cover includes first and second outer cover ends.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of a flexible strap having first and second strap ends, where the first strap end is engaged to the first outer cover end, and where the second strap end is engaged to the second outer cover end.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of the inner cover, having the elongate body therein, being removable from the outer cover.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of the outer cover including an elongate opening extending between the first and second outer cover ends, where the elongate opening includes a length and is incrementally openable and closeable along the length.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of the elongate body in section defining a shape of an arch.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of the elongate body including a bottom surface, where the bottom surface defines a plane and extends to and between the first and second body ends, and where the bottom surface includes first and second side edges that are spaced apart.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of a top surface, where the top surface defines an arch shape, where the top extends to and between the first and second body ends, and where the top extends to and between the first and second side edges of the bottom.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of the inner cover being tailored to the elongate body such that movement of the elongate body inside the inner cover is minimized.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of the outer cover being tailored to the inner cover having the elongate body such that movement of the inner cover, having the elongate body therein, inside of the outer cover is minimized.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of the strap being separable into two strap portions by a quick release buckle.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of the strap being adjustable in length such that the strap can be fixed at a first length at one time and fixed at a second length at another time.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of a flexible elongate strip engagable to the outer cover for engaging the outer cover, having the inner cover and elongate body therein, to a mattress.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of the flexible elongate strip including a strap, where the strap is separable into two strap portions by a quick release buckle.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper, of the flexible elongate strip including a strap, where the strap is adjustable in length such that the strap can be fixed at a first length at one time and fixed at a second length at another time.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of the flexible elongate strip including a strap, where the strap forms at least a portion of a loop, and where the strap is elastic.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of the flexible elongate strip including a strap, where the strap forms at least a portion of a loop, and where at least a portion of the strap is elastic.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of the flexible elongate strip including a strap, where the strap defines at least a portion of a loop, where the strap includes first and second ends, and where the strap is nonelastic from the first end to the second end.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of the flexible elongate strip including a strap and a buckle, where the strap is pullable back through the buckle and connectable to itself such that a length of the strap is adjustable.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of a flexible loop for engaging a mattress, where the outer cover includes a bottom, where the flexible elongate strip is engaged to the bottom, where the flexible elongate strip is engaged to the flexible loop by a connection, and where the connection is a quick release connection.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of a fitted sheet for engaging a mattress, the fitted sheet having a quick release strip, wherein the outer cover includes a bottom, wherein the flexible elongate strip is engaged to the bottom, and wherein the flexible elongate strip is engaged to the quick release strip by a connection, the connection being a quick release connection.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of the elongate body in section including the shape of an arch.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of the elongate body in section including the shape of a triangle.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of the elongate body in section including the shape of a trapezoid.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of the elongate body in section including the shape of a rectangle.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of the elongate body in section including the shape of a rectangle, where the rectangle includes adjacent sides that are equal in length.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of an elongate body that is resilient and flexible, where the elongate body includes first and second body ends, of an inner cover, where the inner cover is flexible, where the inner cover encloses an entirety of the elongate body such that the elongate body is inaccessible to the touch and such that the elongate body is removable from the inner cover only by destroying an integrity of the inner cover, of an outer cover, where the outer cover is flexible, where the outer cover encloses an entirety of the inner cover and elongate body, where the outer cover includes first and second outer cover ends, and of a fitted sheet for a mattress, where the fitted sheet includes a receptacle for the outer cover having the inner cover having the elongate body, and where the receptacle is tailored to fit the shape of the outer cover having the inner cover having the elongate body such that movement of the outer cover having the inner cover having the elongate body is minimized in the receptacle.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of an elongate cylindrical body that is resilient and flexible, where the elongate cylindrical body includes first and second body ends that are open.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of an inner cylindrical cover, where the inner cylindrical cover is flexible, where the inner cylindrical cover encloses an entirety of the elongate cylindrical body such that the elongate cylindrical body is inaccessible to the touch and such that the elongate cylindrical body is removable from the inner cylindrical cover only by destroying an integrity of the inner cylindrical cover, where the inner cylindrical cover is tailored to the elongate cylindrical body such that movement of the elongate cylindrical body inside the inner cylindrical cover is minimized, where the inner cylindrical cover, having the elongate cylindrical body therein, includes first and second inner cover ends that are open.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of an outer cylindrical cover, where the outer cylindrical cover is flexible, where the outer cylindrical cover encloses an entirety of the inner cylindrical cover and elongate cylindrical body, where the outer cylindrical cover includes first and second outer cover ends that are open, where the outer cylindrical cover is tailored to the inner cylindrical cover having the elongate cylindrical body such that movement of the inner cylindrical cover, having the elongate cylindrical body therein, inside of the outer cylindrical cover is minimized.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of a flexible strap forming at least a portion of a loop for engaging a mattress, where the loop extends through the outer cylindrical cover having therein the inner cylindrical cover having therein the elongate cylindrical body.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of a first flexible strap apparatus engaged to the bed bumper and mattress and having a first strap extending about the mattress that defines a first plane and that minimizes lateral movement of the outer cover.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of a second flexible strap apparatus engaged to the bed bumper and mattress and having a second strap extending about the mattress that defines a second plane and that minimizes longitudinal movement of the outer cover.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of the first and second planes being at a right angle to each other such that each of lateral and longitudinal movement of the outer cover, inner cover, and elongate body is minimized.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of a third strap apparatus engaged to the bed bumper and mattress and having a third strap extending about the mattress that defines a third plane and that minimizes lateral movement of the outer cover, the third plane being parallel to the first plane.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision in a bed bumper apparatus, of each of the first and third strap apparatus engaging an end portion of the outer cover.

An advantage of the present invention is that the present bed bumper apparatus is safe.

Another advantage of the present invention is that the present bed bumper apparatus is securely engagable to a mattress.

Another advantage of the present invention is that the present bed bumper apparatus is quickly engagable to a mattress.

Another advantage of the present invention is that the present bed bumper apparatus is quickly disengagable from a mattress.

Another advantage of the present invention is that the present bed bumper apparatus is easy to engage to a mattress.

Another advantage of the present invention is that the present bed bumper apparatus is easy to disengage from a mattress.

Another advantage of the present invention is that the present bed bumper apparatus is inexpensive to manufacture.

Another advantage of the present invention is that the present bed bumper apparatus is easy to clean.

DESCRIPTION

As shown inFIG. 1, the present bed bumper apparatus is indicated by the reference number10. Bed bumper apparatus10includes an elongate body12that is resilient and flexible, an inner cover14that is flexible, an outer cover16that is flexible, and a strap apparatus18. The elongate body12, inner cover14, and outer cover16as a whole may be referred to as a bed bumper20. The strap apparatus18engages the bed bumper20and further engages a mattress22.

The mattress22includes a sleeping uppermost surface24, a first side26, a second side28opposite and parallel to the first side26, a foot end side30, and a head end side32opposite and parallel to the foot end side30, and a bottommost surface34opposite and parallel to the sleeping uppermost surface24. Mattress24is preferably resilient. Mattress24may include coil springs, air, or water. If desired, mattress24may have no give and be formed of a solid one-piece material such as plastic, wood, or sand.

The elongate body12is resilient and flexible. The elongate body12may be formed of foam such as a closed cell polymer foam or an open cell polymer foam. The elongate body12is one-piece and integral. The elongate body12includes first and second body ends36,38, a top40, and a bottom42. The bottom42or the bottom surface42defines a plane and extends to and between the first and second body ends36,38. The bottom42includes first and second side edges44,46that are spaced apart. The top40or top surface40defines an arch shape or a half-cylindrical shape. The top40extends to and between the first and second body ends36,38. The top40extends to and between the first and second side edges44,46of the bottom42such that the elongate body12in section defines a shape of an arch.

FIG. 1Bshows elongate body12, inner cover14, and outer cover16. Elongate body12is solid from bottom42to top40and solid from first end36to second end38. Elongate body12is referred to as being solid even though the elongate body12may consist of a polymer open cell foam or a polymer closed cell foam.FIG. 1Bshows inner cover14without the elongate body12therein, but for purposes of illustration shows the form that the inner cover14takes when elongate body12is disposed in the inner cover14.FIG. 1Bshows outer cover16without the inner cover14therein and without the elongate body12therein, but for purposes of illustration shows the form that the outer cover16takes when the inner cover14and elongate body12are disposed therein.

The inner cover14is one-piece and integral. The inner cover14includes first and second ends48,50, a top52, and a bottom54. The bottom54or the bottom surface54defines a plane and extends to and between the first and second ends48,50. The bottom54includes first and second side edges56,58that are spaced apart. The top52or top surface52defines an arch shape or a half-cylindrical shape. The top52extends to and between the first and second ends48,50. The top52extends to and between the first and second side edges56,58of the bottom54such that the inner cover14in section defines a shape of an arch or half-cylinder. The inner cover14is flexible and may be formed of textile or fabric. The inner cover14encloses an entirety of the elongate body12such that the elongate body12is inaccessible to the touch and such that the elongate body12is removable from the inner cover14only by destroying an integrity of the inner cover14. The inner cover14is tailored to the elongate body12such that movement of the elongate body12inside the inner cover14is minimized.

The outer cover16is one-piece and integral. The outer cover16includes first and second ends60,62, a top64, and a bottom66. The bottom66or the bottom surface66defines a plane and extends to and between the first and second ends60,62. The bottom66includes first and second side edges68,70that are spaced apart. The top64or top surface64defines an arch shape or a half-cylindrical shape. The top64extends to and between the first and second ends60,62. The top64extends to and between the first and second side edges68,70of the bottom66such that the outer cover16in section defines a shape of an arch or half-cylinder.

The outer cover16is flexible and may be formed of textile or fabric. The outer cover16encloses an entirety of the inner cover14and elongate body12. The outer cover16is tailored to the inner cover14having the elongate body12such that movement of the inner cover14, having the elongate body12therein, inside of the outer cover16is minimized. The outer cover16includes an elongate opening extending to and between the first and second outer cover ends60,62. The elongate opening includes a length defined as the distance between the ends60,62. The elongate opening is incrementally openable and closeable along the length by a zipper72such that the inner cover14having the elongate body12is removable from the outer cover16by opening the zipper72and removing the inner cover14having the elongate body12.

Flexible strap apparatus18includes first and second strap ends or strap loops74,76. The first strap end74is engaged to the junction of the first outer cover end60and bottom66. The second strap end76is engaged to the junction of the second outer cover end62and the bottom66. The strap apparatus18is separable into two strap portions by a quick release buckle78having a male portion80and a female portion82. Female portion82includes a post84for engaging strap end76or strap loop76. Strap loop76is a strap section86that includes an end that is engaged to the junction of cover end62and bottom66, which strap section86then extends from such junction, about post84, and then returns to such junction where a second end of the strap section86is engaged to such junction. Female portion82includes a pair of opposing indents88, a pair of opposing prong catching edges90, a female opening92, and a stop94. Male portion80includes a pair of opposing prongs96, with each of the prongs96having a catch98that catches prong catch edge90of the female portion82. Male portion80further includes a pair of opposing stops100and a post102. To release catches98from catch edges90, fingers are depressed toward indents88to pinch the prongs96together. To engage the catches98with the catch edges90, the prongs96are inserted into female opening92such that the prongs96are drawn together by rounded surfaces104sliding on opposing internal surfaces106of female portion82. Prongs96spring apart when prongs96pass beyond internal surfaces106and are fully inserted into female portion82. When prongs96spring apart, catches98engage catch edges90to lock the strap apparatus18. Strap apparatus18further includes a strap portion108that includes an end that is looped about post108of male portion80. From male portion80, strap portion108extends over the mattress sleeping surface24, down the mattress head end side32, across the mattress bottom34, up the mattress foot end side30, back across the mattress sleeping surface24, through a first buckle110, through a second buckle112, and back to the first buckle110where an end of the strap portion108is looped around a post114of buckle110. On its journey from male portion80, strap portion108extends upwardly through slot116, over post114, and downwardly through slot118and then proceeds to buckle112. On its journey from buckle110to buckle112, strap portion108extends upwardly through slot116of buckle112, around post114of buckle112, and back to buckle110where the end of strap portion108is looped about post114of buckle110. Each of the buckles110,112, includes a side post120. Strap loop74that is engaged by stitching to outer cover16at the junction of bottom66and end60is engaged to buckle112by being looped around side post120of buckle112. Strap loop or strap end74is engaged to outer cover16with a strap section86in the manner that strap loop76is engaged to outer cover16with strap section86. Buckles110,112in combination can be referred to as a length adjustor. Utilizing the buckles110,112, the strap apparatus18is adjustable in length such that the strap apparatus18can be fixed at a first length at one time and fixed at a second length at another time. Feeding strap portion108up through buckle110and down through buckle112is a friction fit that can be tightened and loosened. When loosened, buckle110can be drawn relatively to and away from buckle112. When the buckle110is drawn away from buckle112, the length of the upper and lower sections of strap between buckles110,112increases, thereby decreasing the effective length of strap apparatus18and thereby tightening the strap apparatus18about the mattress22.

The first embodiment ofFIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, and 2Emay be described as follows: the present bed bumper20is comprised of a body12which is elongated in form and of sufficient density that it retains its form when subjected to pressure as from a person rolling up against it or on it. Such elongated body12is completely enclosed within a form-fitting, flexible, inner cover14which has no mechanism for removal. Such elongated body12within its inner cover14is completely enclosed within a second, outer, removable cover16. This second cover16is comprised of a flexible material in the form of the elongated body12. Such second, outer, removable cover16includes an opening running the full length of the outer cover16and is located on the underside66of the outer cover16, and has affixed to it a quick connect device or devices, such as a zipper, which can be opened to access and remove the elongated body12in its inner cover14and closed to secure the elongated body12and inner cover14within. The second, outer, removable cover16includes two ends, each of which is attached to an end of a strap108. Such strap108is comprised of a flexible material and includes two ends, each of which may be attached to an end of the second, outer, removable cover16in a secure fashion such that removal of the strap108from the flexible second cover16will destroy the strap or the outer cover16, and the connection between them. This strap108, whether or not including such secure fashion feature, includes at a point along its length near the first end of the elongated body12, a two-piece buckle78which may be opened and closed so that when the buckle78is closed the strap108forms a continuous loop, with the outer cover16being part of the loop. When the buckle78is opened the loop is broken. This buckle78includes a release mechanism so that the buckle78will open. This release mechanism also serves as a lock mechanism that secures the buckle78in a closed function and ensures the strap loop formed will remain until the release mechanism is activated. This strap108includes, at a point along its length near the second end of the elongated body12, two retention buckles110,112, each with two open slots116,118through which the flexible strap108is woven in an over-under fashion.

As indicated above,FIG. 3Ais a perspective view of a second embodiment of the present bed bumper apparatus,FIG. 3Bis a section view of the second embodiment ofFIG. 3A,FIG. 3Cis a detail view of a portion ofFIG. 3Cshowing a Velcro® hook and loop connection, andFIG. 3Dis a perspective view of the second embodiment ofFIG. 3A, with an additional strap and with an additional bumper. Each ofFIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3Dshows bed bumper20, i.e., outer cover16having inner cover14having elongate body12. This second embodiment includes a strap apparatus122that includes the strap loop74on one end of the outer cover16, the strap loop76on the other end of the outer cover16, a buckle112engaged to strap loop74, a buckle112engaged to strap loop76, and a strap124engaged to buckle112that is engaged to strap loop74. Strap124includes a strap end portion126that has one strip128of Velcro® loop connectors and one strip130of Velcro® hook connectors. Strip128is spaced apart from strip130by a strap portion132. Strap portion132is engaged by side post121of buckle112. Loop strip128engages hook strip130to engage strap124about the mattress22and to provide for length adjustment as well by axially adjusting strips128,130relative to each other. In a first case, the distal end of the strap124may have a loop end that is engaged to buckle112engaged to strap loop76on the other end of the bumper20. In a second case, strap124may extend under the bumper20and be stitched to the bottom66of outer cover16, where such stitching occurs from one end62to the other end60, and in which case the distal end of strap124may be stitched to strap end74, and in which case the elongate opening and zipper72may be slightly offset. A third case or third alternative is to provide a second strap portion126having loop and hook strips128,130at the distal end of strap124and utilizing strap portion76to hold buckle112such that there are two locations for length adjustment of strap124, where one location is adjacent cover end60and where the other location is adjacent to cover end62. In the first and third cases above, the bumper20is pulled or tensioned from each of the ends. In the second case above, the bumper20is tensioned from one end and further tensioned along the bottom60of the outer cover16.FIG. 3Dshows that two bed bumpers20may be used on a single mattress22.

As indicated above,FIG. 4Ais a perspective view of a third embodiment of the present bed bumper apparatus.FIG. 4Bis a perspective exploded view of the third embodiment ofFIG. 4A.FIG. 4Cis a section view of the third embodiment ofFIG. 4A.FIG. 4Dis a detail view of a portion ofFIG. 4Cshowing the Velcro® hook and loop connection.FIG. 4Eis a perspective view of the third embodiment ofFIG. 4A, with an additional strap and an additional bumper.FIG. 4Fis a perspective exploded view ofFIG. 4E. In this embodiment, a strap apparatus134includes an endless strap136, a Velcro® hook strip portion138, and a Velcro® loop strip portion140. Endless strap136may be an elastic strap. Endless strap136may have an elastic portion, with a remainder of the strap being inelastic or nonstretchable. Endless strap136may be an inelastic or nonstretchable strap that is preconfigured or has a set or given length for a given size of mattress. Loop strip140is engaged to endless strap136. Loop strip140has a length about equal to or less than the length of bumper20, i.e., the distance between ends60and62. Hook strip138is engaged centrally to bottom66of outer cover16, in which case the zipper72and its elongate opening is offset from a central longitudinal portion. Alternatively, zipper72and its elongate opening may remain along the central longitudinal portion as shown inFIG. 1Band the hook strip138may be offset from the central longitudinal portion. Hook strip138has a length equal to or less than the length of bottom66of outer cover16. When strips or strip portions140,138are engaged to each other, then strap136is engaged to bumper20, thereby holding bumper20in place on the sleeping surface24of mattress22because strap136is engaged about the mattress22.FIGS. 4A and 4Bshows that a single bumper20may be employed, with the bumper20secured by a strap apparatus134.FIGS. 4E and 4Fshow that two bumpers20may be employed on one mattress22, with each of the bumpers20secured with its own strap apparatus134.

As indicated above,FIG. 5Ais a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the present bed bumper apparatus.FIG. 5Bis a perspective exploded view of the fourth embodiment ofFIG. 5A.FIG. 5Cis a section view of the fourth embodiment ofFIG. 5A.FIG. 5Eis a perspective view of the fourth embodiment ofFIG. 5A, with an additional bumper20and connection142under the bumper20.FIG. 5Fis a perspective exploded view ofFIG. 5E. Connection142or strap apparatus142includes Velcro® hook strip138or strip portion138and Velcro® loop strip140or strip portion140. Instead of being engaged to strap136, loop strip140is engaged to a fitted sheet144. Fitted sheet144may be waterproof. Fitted sheet144has a top sleeping section and four side sections, with two of the four side sections being a head section and a foot section. The fitted sheet144includes a lower periphery146running along the lower edges of the four side sections. This lower periphery includes one or more elastic portions such that fitted sheet144remains in place about the mattress22to a greater degree than a nonfitted sheet to thereby keep loop strip140at one location or to keep a pair of loop strips140at their respective locations for two bumpers20, as shown inFIGS. 5E and 5F.

As indicated above,FIG. 6Ais a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the present bed bumper apparatus having an elastic strap148or a strap148with an elastic portion.FIG. 6Bis a section view of the fifth embodiment ofFIG. 6A. Strap148may be engaged in a number of ways to bumper20. In a first case, strap148may be engaged to the bottom66of outer cover16along a central longitudinal portion, in which case the zipper72and its elongate opening may be offset from the central longitudinal portion. In this first case, strap148is endless and may either be elastic or have one or more elastic portions. In a second case, strap148has two ends, with one end looped about side post121of buckle112engaged to strap loop74on cover end60and with the other end looped about side post121of buckle112engaged to strap loop76on cover end62and, in this second case strap148may be elastic or have one or more elastic portions.

As indicated above,FIG. 6Cis a section view of a sixth embodiment of the present bed bumper apparatus, where the sixth embodiment includes a preconfigured inelastic or nonstretchable strap150that includes no elastic and no connections such as connection78, which preconfigured nonstretchable strap150has a given or fixed size for a given or set mattress size. In a first case, strap150may be engaged to the bottom66of outer cover16along a central longitudinal portion, in which case the zipper72and its elongate opening may be offset from the central longitudinal portion. In this first case, strap150is endless and is inelastic or nonstretchable. In a second case, strap150has two ends, with one end looped about side post121of buckle112engaged to strap loop74on cover end60and with the other end looped about side post121of buckle112engaged to strap loop76on cover end62and, in this second case strap150is inelastic or nonstretchable. To engage the inelastic or nonstretchable strap150, the mattress22may be first squeezed to as to insert the mattress22relatively into the loop of the strap150and then, second, released such that the mattress22returns to its original shape to press outwardly against the loop of the strap150.

FIGS. 7A, 8B, 9A, and 9Bshow embodiments where the present bed bumper apparatus may be engaged to a mattress by three or more straps, where the three straps may be any of the straps disclosed herein, including strap apparatus18(having strap180), strap apparatus122(having strap124),134(having strap136), strap apparatus142(having no wrap around strap), strap apparatus148, and strap apparatus150. If strap apparatus142is employed where no straps run about the mattress22and where fitted sheet144is used, hook strips138may be engaged both laterally and longitudinally on bottom66of outer cover16and loop strips140may be engaged both laterally and longitudinally on the fitted sheet144. As shown, straps108,124,136,148,150may extend both longitudinally and laterally and both of the longitudinal and lateral straps engage the bumper20either on the bottom66of the outer cover16or by strap loops74,76, which strap loops74,76may be engaged to the cover ends60,62as well as the outer cover edges68,70. In such lateral and longitudinal strap arrangements ofFIGS. 7A, 8B, 9A, and 9B, the lateral and longitudinal straps may be independent of all of the other lateral or longitudinal straps or the lateral and longitudinal straps may engage each other where such lateral and longitudinal straps cross. InFIGS. 7A, 8B, 9A, and 9B, the lateral and longitudinal straps extend about the sides, top, and bottom of the mattress22.

InFIG. 8A, any of the strap apparatus of the present invention may be employed, including strap apparatus18(having strap180), strap apparatus122(having strap124),134(having strap136), strap apparatus142(having no wrap around strap), strap apparatus148, and strap apparatus150.FIG. 8Ashows two parallel bumpers20. InFIG. 8A, the longitudinal straps extend about the sides, top, and bottom of the mattress22.

InFIG. 8B, two parallel bumpers20are employed, where each of the bumpers20is secured by a lateral strap and a longitudinal strap.

InFIG. 9A, two parallel bumpers20are employed and a third bumper20is further employed, where the third bumper runs at a right angle to each of the two parallel bumpers20, and where each of the bumpers20is secured by a lateral strap and a longitudinal strap.

InFIG. 9B, a first set of two parallel bumpers20are employed and second set of two parallel bumpers20are further employed, where each of the bumpers20of the first set runs at a right angle to each of the bumpers20of the second set. The bumpers20adjacent to the sides26,28extend to and engage the bumpers20on the foot and head ends30,32, where ends of the side bumpers engage the sides of the bumpers at the foot and head ends,30,32. It is preferred that each of the bumpers20abut two other bumpers20such that gaps are eliminated between the bumpers20. Each of the bumpers20is secured by a lateral strap and a longitudinal strap. The four bumpers20define a rectangular enclosed space with unequal adjacent sides.

As indicated above,FIG. 10Ais a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the present bed bumper apparatus, where a fitted sheet144includes a receptacle or pocket152for the bumper20,FIG. 10Bis a section view of the seventh embodiment ofFIG. 10A, andFIG. 10Cis a perspective view of the seventh embodiment ofFIG. 10Ashowing two pockets or two receptacles for two bumpers, with each of the pockets being adjacent to a side of the mattress. Instead of including loop strip portion140, fitted sheet144includes receptacle152. Each of fitted sheet144and receptacle152may be waterproof. As indicated above, fitted sheet144has a top sleeping section and four side sections, with two of the four side sections being a head section and a foot section. The fitted sheet144includes the lower periphery146running along the lower edges of the four side sections. This lower periphery includes one or more elastic portions such that fitted sheet144remains in place about the mattress22to a greater degree than a nonfitted sheet to thereby keep receptacle152at one location or to keep one, two, three, or four receptacles152at their respective locations, like in one or more ofFIG. 7A, 8A, 8B, 9A, or9B for one, two, three, or four bumpers20. Receptacle152is one-piece and integral with fitted sheet144. Receptacle152is the same shape as top52of inner cover14. Receptacle152is the same shape as top64of outer cover16. Receptacle152is an arch or half cylindrical shape. Receptacle152may have two open ends if desired such that receptacle152includes a through opening. Receptacle152may have one open end and one closed end154, as shown inFIG. 10B. If desired, the other end of receptacle152may also be closed, such as in the nature of a flap where one edge portion of the flap is integral with fitted sheet144and the remaining edge portion of the flap is closeable by a zipper or other quick release connection. Receptacle152is shown adjacent to one side of the fitted sheet144, but may be disposed adjacent to both sides of the fitted sheet144as shown inFIG. 10C, and one or more further receptacles152may be disposed adjacent to the foot or head ends of the fitted sheet144. Receptacle152and the portion of the fitted sheet144below receptacle152are tailored to fit the bumper20such that movement of the bumper20when engaged in the receptacle152is minimized.FIG. 10Ashows a mattress support156or a box spring156disposed below mattress22having fitted sheet144. If desired, the outer cover16may be eliminated in this embodiment and a receptacle152having a closeable end and a closed end, that is one-piece and integral with the fitted sheet144, may essentially be the outer cover16.

As indicated above,FIG. 11Ais a section view of an arch shape for a bumper20for any of the embodiments of the present bed bumper apparatus, where the bumper20includes an arch elongate body12, an arch inner cover14, and an arch outer cover16.

As indicated above,FIG. 11Bis a section view of a triangular shape for a bumper20for any of the embodiments of the present bed bumper apparatus, where the bumper20includes a triangular elongate body12, a triangular inner cover14, and a triangular outer cover16.

As indicated above,FIG. 11Cis section detail view of any of the sides of any of the bumpers20ofFIGS. 11A, 11B, 11D, and 11Eor of any of the bumpers20of the present bed bumper apparatus.

As indicated above,FIG. 11Dis a section view of a quadrilateral or four sided or trapezoidal shape for a bumper20for any of the embodiments of the present bed bumper apparatus, where the bumper20includes a trapezoidal elongate body12, a trapezoidal inner cover14, and a trapezoidal outer cover16.

As indicated above,FIG. 11Eis a section view of a square or rectangular shape for a bumper20for any of the embodiments of the present bed bumper apparatus, where the bumper20includes a rectangular elongate body12, a rectangular inner cover14, and a rectangular outer cover16, where adjacent sides are equal. If desired, the rectangular body12, rectangular inner cover14, and rectangular outer cover16may be rectangular where adjacent sides are unequal.

As indicated above,FIG. 12Ais a perspective view of an eighth embodiment of the present bed bumper apparatus where the bumper20has the shape of a full cylinder and where the cylindrical bumper20has a pair of open ends156.FIG. 12Bis a perspective view of the eighth embodiment ofFIG. 12Ahaving two opposing bumpers20of the bumper20ofFIG. 12A. InFIGS. 12A and 12B, any of the strap apparatus of the present invention may be employed except strap apparatus142(having no wrap around strap), where the strap apparatus that may be employed include strap apparatus (having strap180), strap apparatus122(having strap124), strap apparatus134(having strap136), strap apparatus148, and strap apparatus150. Where straps having two ends are disposed, strap loops74,76may be employed. Where endless straps are employed the endless strap passes through the entire cylindrical bumper20ofFIGS. 12A, 12B. Where hook strip138and loop strip140are employed, one of the strips138,140is engaged to the inner surface of the opening of the cylindrical bumper20and the other of the strips138,140is engaged to the endless strap. Strap apparatus142, having no wrap around strap, is not employed.

The cylindrical bumper20ofFIGS. 12A and 12Bincludes: a) an elongate cylindrical body12that is resilient and flexible, where the elongate cylindrical body12includes first and second body ends that are open; b) an inner cylindrical cover14, where the inner cylindrical cover14is flexible, where the inner cylindrical cover14encloses an entirety of the elongate cylindrical body12such that the elongate cylindrical body12is inaccessible to the touch and such that the elongate cylindrical body12is removable from the inner cylindrical cover14only by destroying an integrity of the inner cylindrical cover14, where the inner cylindrical cover14is tailored to the elongate cylindrical body12such that movement of the elongate cylindrical body12inside the inner cylindrical cover14is minimized, and where the inner cylindrical cover14, having the elongate cylindrical body12therein, includes first and second inner cover ends that are open; and c) an outer cylindrical cover16, where the outer cylindrical cover16is flexible, where the outer cylindrical cover16encloses an entirety of the inner cylindrical cover14and elongate cylindrical body12, where the outer cylindrical cover16includes first and second outer cover ends156that are open, where the outer cylindrical cover16is tailored to the inner cylindrical cover14having the elongate cylindrical body12such that movement of the inner cylindrical cover14, having the elongate cylindrical body12therein, inside of the outer cylindrical cover16is minimized. The bed bumper apparatus ofFIGS. 12A and 12Bfurther includes a flexible strap forming at least a portion of a loop for engaging the mattress22, where the loop extends through the outer cylindrical cover16having therein the inner cylindrical cover14having therein the elongate cylindrical body12. If desired, bumper20ofFIGS. 12A and 12Bmay not include the inner cylindrical cover14and the outer cylindrical cover16such that the bumper20may only include the elongate cylindrical body12.

One or more of the inner cover14and outer cover16of any of the embodiments disclosed herein may be formed of a flexible and waterproof fabric, textile, sheeting, vinyl, or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The elongate body12of any of the embodiments disclosed herein may be formed of a polymeric open cell foam or polymeric closed cell foam. The elongate body12of any of the embodiments disclosed herein may be formed of a polyurethane foam. The elongate body12may be inflatable such that the elongate body12may have its own skin or sheeting, which is in turn enclosed by the inner cover14, which is in turn enclosed by the outer cover16. The elongate body12may include or consist of feathers, pillow material, packing material, peanut packing material, or chopped up foam instead of one-piece foam. If desired, a bumper20may be placed longitudinally down a central longitudinal portion of the mattress or down an intermediate longitudinal portion of a mattress to divide the sleeping surface24into two sleeping surface portions. The zipper72and straps of the various embodiments may be aligned so as to define a plane. The zipper72and straps of the various embodiments may be offset from each other.

Instead of the shape of the elongate body12, inner cover14, and outer cover16being described as being the shape of a circle, such shape may be described as a curved shape, or a tapering shape, a shape without sharp breaks, an arch shape, or an arc shape. However, a preferred shape of a section of the elongate body12, inner cover14, and outer cover16is a half circle or circular shape.

The bed bumper20may be disposed between the mattress22and a fitted sheet, such as fitted sheet144without a Velcro® strip such as loop strip140. Such fitted sheet144may be a conventional fitted sheet144without receptacle152. Such fitted sheet144may or may not be waterproof. If desired the bed bumper20may be disposed on top of a sheet, such as a fitted sheet, which in turn is disposed on top of a mattress22.

As shown inFIG. 14A, flexible strap apparatus18includes first and second nonelastic strap ends or nonelastic strap loops74,76. The first strap end74is engaged to the junction of the first outer cover end60of the outer cover16and bottom66of the outer cover16. The second strap end76is engaged to the junction of the second outer cover end62and the bottom66. The strap apparatus18is separable into two strap portions by a quick release buckle78having a male portion80and a female portion82. Female portion82includes the post84for engaging strap end76or strap loop76. Strap loop76is a strap section86that includes an end that is engaged to the junction of cover end62and bottom66, which strap section86then extends from such junction, about post84, and then returns to such junction where a second end of the strap section86is engaged to such junction. Female portion82includes the pair of opposing indents88, the pair of opposing prong catching edges90, the female opening92, and the stop94. Male portion80includes the pair of opposing prongs96, with each of the prongs96having the catch98that catches prong catch edge90of the female portion82. Male portion80further includes the pair of opposing stops100and the post102.

As shown inFIG. 14A, strap apparatus18further includes the nonelastic strap portion108that includes an end that is looped about post102of male portion80. From male portion80and loop76, strap portion108as a whole extends, as shown inFIG. 13B, over the mattress sleeping surface24, down the mattress head end side32, across the mattress bottom34, up the mattress foot end side30, and back across the mattress sleeping surface24to loop74that is shown inFIG. 14A.

As shown inFIG. 14A, on its journey from loop76, strap portion108first encounters buckle110, whereupon strap portion108extends upwardly through slot116of buckle110, over or about post114of buckle110, and downwardly through slot118of buckle110, and then proceeds out of buckle110. From buckle110, strap portion108proceeds to buckle112, whereupon strap portion108extends upwardly through slot118of buckle112, over or about post114of buckle112, and downwardly through slot116of buckle112. From buckle112, strap portion108proceeds back to buckle110, whereupon strap portion108extends upwardly through slot118of buckle110and between another section of strap portion108and post120, over or about post114of buckle110and on top of another section of strap portion108, and downwardly out of slot116of buckle110and between another section of strap portion108and post121. From buckle112, strap portion108extends to the nonelastic free end portion158. Free end portion158includes an absolute nonelastic terminal end160having a double strap layer such that the terminal end160has a greater width than width of slot116and a greater width than the width of slot118such that terminal end160must be squeezed or pinched to pass through slot116and slot118. The width of slot118is a direction parallel to the length of strap portion108, which is a direction perpendicular to a lateral length of posts114,120, and121. The width of the terminal end160is a direction perpendicular to the plane of the strap portion108.

Strap apparatus18ofFIG. 14A, including strap portion108ofFIG. 14A, buckle110ofFIG. 14A, and buckle112ofFIG. 14Ain combination can be referred to as a length adjustor. Utilizing such buckles110,112, the strap portion108is adjustable in length such that the strap portion108can be fixed at a first length at one time and fixed at a second length at another time. Engaging strap portion108as indicated above with respect toFIG. 14Awith buckles112,110is a friction fit that can be tightened and loosened. When loosened, buckle110ofFIG. 14Acan be drawn relatively to and away from buckle112ofFIG. 14A. When the buckle110ofFIG. 14Ais drawn away from buckle112ofFIG. 14A, the length of the upper and lower sections of the strap portion between buckles110,112ofFIG. 14Aincreases, thereby decreasing the effective length of strap apparatus18and thereby tightening the strap apparatus18about the mattress22.

The elongate body12, the portion of the bed bumper apparatus10that is resilient, has a length that is about 30% of the length of the strap portion108or about 30% of the length of the strap portion108plus the length of buckle78plus the length of strap end76plus the length of strap end74. The combined length of the buckle78, strap end76, and strap end74is not significant.

Preferably, the elongate body12, the portion of the bed bumper apparatus10that is resilient, has a length that is preferably between about 20% and about 40% of the length of the strap portion108. More preferably, the elongate body12, the portion of the bed bumper apparatus10that is resilient, has a length that is preferably between about 22% and about 38% of the length of the strap portion108. Still more preferably, the elongate body12, the portion of the bed bumper apparatus10that is resilient, has a length that is preferably between about 25% and about 35% of the length of the strap portion108. The length of the strap portion108, or the length of the combination of the strap108, strap loops74,76, buckle110,112, and connector buckle78, which may be defined as a flexible elongate strip, runs from the first end of the strip that is attached to the outer cover16to the second end of the strip that is attached to the outer cover16. Such length is measured along the flexible elongate strip and such length is the same whether the flexible elongate strip is set out in a straight form or whether the flexible elongate strip is set out in an irregular form. The difference between the length of the strip and the length of the strap portion108is insignificant.

The length of the strap portion108means the length from buckle78, to buckle110, to buckle112, back to buckle110, and then to the terminal end160.

The length of the strap portion108is of sufficient length to extend about a mattress in the length direction minus the length of the elongate body12, the portion of the bed bumper apparatus10that is resilient.

The minimum length of the strap portion108is of sufficient length to extend a point on the mattress top24, to the mattress head end32, to the mattress bottom34, to the mattress foot end30, and back to such point on the mattress top24minus the length of the elongate body12, the portion of the bed bumper apparatus10that is resilient. This minimum length is where buckles110and112are adjacent to each other and where terminal end160is adjacent to buckle110.

A preferred length of the strap portion108is where the elongate body12, the portion of the bed bumper apparatus10that is resilient, has a length that is between about 20% and about 40% of the length of the strap portion108. This length provides an elongate body12that is neither too long nor too short and permits the length adjustment mechanism, i.e., buckles110and112, to provide a sufficient length to the strap portion108such that strap portion108and bed bumper apparatus10may be engaged to a variety of mattress sizes without an unduly long free end portion158, i.e., the section of strap portion108that is between buckle110and the terminal end160.

The elongate body12, the portion of the bed bumper apparatus10that is resilient, preferably terminates short of the head end32of the mattress22and, at the same time, preferably terminates short of the foot end30. The elongate body12, the portion of the bed bumper apparatus10that is resilient, preferably is spaced from the head end32of the mattress22and, at the same time, preferably is spaced from the foot end30.

FIG. 13Ashows the bed bumper apparatus10in a rolled up form. The elongate body12, which is the portion of the bed bumper apparatus10that is resilient, is resilient in each of the x, y, and z axis directions. The sides of the elongate body12can be squeezed together, which sides then spring back to the original unsqueezed position. The top and bottom surfaces of the elongate body12can be squeezed together, which top and bottom surfaces then spring back to the original unsqueezed position. The ends of the elongate body12can be drawn together resiliently and then, upon release, spring back outwardly to the positions the ends were in prior to being drawn in together. Also, as shown inFIG. 13A, elongate body12, including the inner and outer covers14,16can be rollable into the rolled up form whereupon the strap apparatus18can be wrapped about the rolled up form to keep the elongate body12and the inner and outer covers14,16in the rolled up form. Upon an unwrapping of the strap apparatus18, the elongate body12and the inner and outer covers14,16unroll automatically to the straight form shown inFIG. 13Bor to a slightly curved or arc form. If the elongate body12and inner and outer covers14,16take the slightly curved or arc form, a tensioned engagement of the strap portion108about the mattress22and to the strap loops74,76draws out the elongate body12and inner and outer covers14,16to the straight form that is shown inFIG. 13B.

As shown inFIG. 13B, in a preferred arrangement, the length of the strap portion108is such so that the buckle110lies on the top surface of the mattress22. Buckle112always lies on the top surface of the mattress22since the buckle112is engaged at a set distance from end60of the bed bumper apparatus10by the nonadjustable strap loop74and since end60is preferably spaced from foot mattress end30.

FIG. 13Cshows an exploded view of the bed bumper apparatus10. The entire bed bumper apparatus10is flexible including the strap apparatus18, except for buckles112,110, and78. Buckle78includes the male portion80and the female portion82.

FIG. 14Ashows a bottom view of the bed bumper apparatus10and shows that the length of the elongate body12is between about 20% and about 40% of the length of the strap portion108. Zipper72is shown inFIG. 14A.FIG. 1Bshows that the zipper72runs from end60to end62.

FIG. 14Bis a section view at lines14B-14B ofFIG. 14A.FIG. 14Bshows that the elongate resilient body12is completely enclosed by the inner cover14that is in turn completely enclosed by the outer cover16.

The strap apparatus18ofFIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C, 14A, and14B, including strap portion108, strap loops74,76, quick release buckle78, buckles110,112, free end portion158, and terminal end160, or any portion thereof, may be employed with any of the other bed bumper apparatus disclosed herein, including straps124,136,148, and150, and including the arrangements shown inFIGS. 7A, 8A, 8B, 9A, 9B, 12A, and 12B.

One invention herein includes a bed bumper apparatus, that includes: a) an elongate body that is resilient and flexible, the elongate body having first and second body ends; b) an inner cover, the inner cover being flexible, the inner cover enclosing an entirety of the elongate body such that the elongate body is inaccessible to the touch and such that the elongate body is removable from the inner cover only by destroying an integrity of the inner cover; c) an outer cover, the outer cover being flexible, the outer cover enclosing an entirety of the inner cover and elongate body, the outer cover having first and second outer cover ends; d) a flexible elongate strip engagable to the outer cover for engaging the outer cover, having the inner cover and elongate body therein, to a mattress. Such invention may further include the elongate body in section including the shape of a triangle, a trapezoid, or a rectangle, where the rectangle includes adjacent sides that are equal in length. Such invention may further include the flexible elongate strip including a strap, where the strap forms at least a portion of a loop, and where the strap is elastic. Such invention may further include the flexible elongate strip including a strap, where the strap forms at least a portion of a loop, and where at least a portion of the strap is elastic. Such invention may further include a fitted sheet for engaging a mattress, where the fitted sheet includes a quick release strip, where the outer cover includes a bottom, where the flexible elongate strip is engaged to the bottom, where the flexible elongate strip is engaged to the quick release strip by a connection, where the connection is a quick release connection.

Another invention herein includes a bed bumper apparatus that includes: a) an elongate body that is resilient and flexible, the elongate body having first and second body ends; b) an inner cover, the inner cover being flexible, the inner cover enclosing an entirety of the elongate body such that the elongate body is inaccessible to the touch and such that the elongate body is removable from the inner cover only by destroying an integrity of the inner cover; c) an outer cover, the outer cover being flexible, the outer cover enclosing an entirety of the inner cover and elongate body, the outer cover having first and second outer cover ends; and d) a fitted sheet for a mattress, the fitted sheet having a receptacle for the outer cover having the inner cover having the elongate body, the receptacle tailored to fit the shape of the outer cover having the inner cover having the elongate body such that movement of the outer cover having the inner cover having the elongate body is minimized in the receptacle.

Another invention herein includes a bed bumper apparatus that includes: a) an elongate cylindrical body that is resilient and flexible, the elongate cylindrical body having first and second body ends that are open; b) an inner cylindrical cover, the inner cylindrical cover being flexible, the inner cylindrical cover enclosing an entirety of the elongate cylindrical body such that the elongate cylindrical body is inaccessible to the touch and such that the elongate cylindrical body is removable from the inner cylindrical cover only by destroying an integrity of the inner cylindrical cover, the inner cylindrical cover being tailored to the elongate cylindrical body such that movement of the elongate cylindrical body inside the inner cylindrical cover is minimized, the inner cylindrical cover, having the elongate cylindrical body therein, having first and second inner cover ends that are open; and c) an outer cylindrical cover, the outer cylindrical cover being flexible, the outer cylindrical cover enclosing an entirety of the inner cylindrical cover and elongate cylindrical body, the outer cylindrical cover having first and second outer cover ends that are open, the outer cylindrical cover being tailored to the inner cylindrical cover having the elongate cylindrical body such that movement of the inner cylindrical cover, having the elongate cylindrical body therein, inside of the outer cylindrical cover is minimized. Such invention may further include a flexible strap forming at least a portion of a loop for engaging a mattress, the loop extending through the outer cylindrical cover having therein the inner cylindrical cover having therein the elongate cylindrical body.

Another invention includes a bed bumper and mattress combination that includes: a) an elongate body that is resilient and flexible, the elongate body having first and second body ends; b) an inner cover, the inner cover being flexible, the inner cover enclosing an entirety of the elongate body such that the elongate body is inaccessible to the touch and such that the elongate body is removable from the inner cover only by destroying an integrity of the inner cover; c) an outer cover, the outer cover being flexible, the outer cover enclosing an entirety of the inner cover and elongate body, the outer cover having first and second outer cover ends; d) a first flexible strap apparatus engaged to the bed bumper and mattress and having a first strap extending about the mattress that defines a first plane and that minimizes lateral movement of the outer cover; e) a second flexible strap apparatus engaged to the bed bumper and mattress and having a second strap extending about the mattress that defines a second plane and that minimizes longitudinal movement of the outer cover; and f) the first and second planes being at a right angle to each other such that each of lateral and longitudinal movement of the outer cover, inner cover, and elongate body is minimized. Such invention may further include a third strap apparatus engaged to the bed bumper and mattress and having a third strap extending about the mattress that defines a third plane and that minimizes lateral movement of the outer cover, the third plane being parallel to the first plane. Such invention may further include each of the first and third strap apparatus engaging an end portion of the outer cover.