A portable pet bed apparatus is provided that can be selectively side mountable to a bed assembly. The pet bed apparatus includes a carrier device that defines a bedding space thereof sized and dimensioned to accommodate a domestic pet therein. The pet bed apparatus further includes a mounting assembly having a support platform configured to vertically support the of the carrier device thereatop, and a frame assembly coupled to the support platform. The frame assembly can be moved between a stowed position and a deployed position. In the deployed position, portions of the frame assembly cooperate with the bed assembly for side mounting thereto. The carrier device can be removed from the mounting assembly, which enable independent functionality as a pet carrier.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to in-home bedding for domestic pets, and more particularly relates to a portable pet bed apparatus mountable to a side of a conventional bed.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It is quite common for pet owner's to share their beds with their beloved pets, especially cats and dogs. Such bed sharing, however, is not true for every pet owner, whether they are allergic to pet dander, or whether they simply do not wish to. Such non-sharing of the owner's bed may especially be true when traveling or when not sleeping in one's own bed.

Accordingly, it is therefore highly desirable to provide an improved pet bed apparatus that can be side mounted to a bed assembly.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In particular, this present inventive pet bed apparatus configured for cantilever supportive retainment at an interface between two opposed, substantially adjacent, opposed surfaces of a structure (such as a conventional bed). The pet bed apparatus includes a carrier device defining a bedding space sized and dimensioned to accommodate a domestic pet therein. The pet bed apparatus further includes a mounting assembly that includes a support platform, coupled to the carrier device, and a frame assembly, configured for selective manipulation between a stowed position and a deployed position. In the deployed position, the frame assembly is sufficiently extended from a side portion of the carrier device, to enable selective friction-fit insertion of at least a portion of the frame assembly into the interface, between the opposed surfaces, to an inserted position. In this position, the pet bed apparatus is cantilever mounted to a side wall of the structure.

In accordance with the present invention, the carrier device is configured to function as a conventional carrier transport, for enclosed transport of the occupant pet, and can be removed from the mounting assembly. Accordingly, a portable carrier device is provided that is capable of simplistic conversion from a pet carrier to a side mounted pet bed apparatus. By manipulating the frame assembly to the deployed position, portions of the frame assembly can be inserted into the structure interface (e.g., between an upper mattress and a lower mattress support) toward the inserted position). Consequently, the carrier device can be positioned directly adjacent to, as well as at a similar height as, the upper mattress of the bed assembly, enabling the pet occupant to nearly share a sleeping arrangement with their owner without having their pet directly occupy the owner's same bed assembly.

In one specific embodiment, the frame assembly includes a pair of mounting legs, laterally spaced apart from one another. The mounting legs are configured to telescopically translate between the stowed position to the deployed position.

In another configuration, however, the mounting legs are configured to hingedly “fold” between the stowed position and the deployed position.

In another specific embodiment, the carrier device is configured to removably mount to the mounting assembly. This enables separation of the carrier device so that it can independently function as a conventional pet carrier.

Another specific embodiment provides a mounting assembly that includes a support platform to vertically support a bottom portion of the carrier device thereatop. The support platform is plate-shaped, and includes a lip portion configured for insertion into the interface, between the two opposed surfaces to, in the inserted position.

Yet another embodiment provides a pet bed apparatus that further includes a latching mechanism cooperating between the carrier device and the mounting assembly for removable mounting to one another. This latching mechanism is selected from the group consisting essentially of VELCRO® (i.e., hook and loop) fasteners, VELCRO® straps, snaps, latches, belts, buckles, and metal loops through which VELCRO® straps will be attached.

In still another configuration, a telescoping support leg is included that extends from the support platform to the ground for additional vertical support of the pet bed apparatus when oriented in the inserted position. This support leg preferably articulates between a stored position, generally oriented adjacent to and against a bottom of the support platform, and a support position, generally oriented perpendicular to the support platform bottom.

To provide enclosed transport, a cover device is included that is configured to selectively mount to the carrier device in a manner substantially covering an upper opening thereof into the bedding space.

In another aspect of the present invention, a portable pet bed apparatus is provided that is selectively side mountable to a bed assembly. The bed assembly includes an upper mattress supported atop a mattress support at an interface formed between a bottom surface of the upper mattress and an upper surface of the mattress support. The pet bed apparatus includes a carrier device having a bottom wall and a plurality of side walls upstanding from a peripheral edge of the bottom wall. The carrier device further defines an upper opening extending into a bedding space thereof sized and dimensioned to accommodate a domestic pet therein. A mounting assembly is included having a support platform configured to vertically support the bottom wall of the carrier device thereatop, and a frame assembly configured to removably side mount to the bed assembly. Such side mount positioning the carrier device substantially adjacent to the upper mattress. The apparatus further includes a latch mechanism disposed between the carrier device and the mounting assembly for selective coupling and decoupling therebetween, enabling independent operation of the carrier device.

In one specific embodiment, the frame assembly is coupled to the support platform for selective manipulation between a stowed position and a deployed position. In the latter deployed position, leg portions of the frame assembly are sufficiently extended from an abutting side wall of the carrier device, to enable selective friction-fit insertion of at least a portion of the frame assembly and at least a lip portion of the support platform into the interface. By positioning the leg portions and the lip portion between the upper mattress and the mattress support, to an inserted position, the carrier device can be cantilever mounted and supportively retained to a side wall of the bed assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While the present invention will be described with reference to a few specific embodiments, the description is illustrative of the invention and is not to be construed as limiting the invention. Various modifications to the present invention can be made to the preferred embodiments by those skilled in the art without departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. It will be noted here that for a better understanding, like components are designated by like reference numerals throughout the various figures.

Turning now toFIGS. 1-5, a pet bed apparatus, generally designated20, is provided that can be cantilever mounted in an interface21formed in a side wall22of a structure23. In one particular embodiment, for example, the structure23is provided by a conventional bed assembly having an upper mattress25supported atop a mattress support26, forming the interface21between a bottom surface27of the upper mattress25and an upper surface28of the mattress support26.

The cantilever mounted pet bed apparatus20includes a carrier device30having a rugged outer shell41that defines an upper opening24extending into a bedding space29of the carrier device that is sized and dimensioned to accommodate a domestic pet therein. Briefly, by adding a covered hood50(FIGS. 5 and 10) over the outer shell upper opening24, as will be described in greater detail below, the carrier device30may function as a conventional pet carrier for transport thereof.

Referring now to FIGS.2and6-9, the pet bed apparatus20further includes a mounting assembly31, removably mounted to the carrier device30that cooperates with the structure interface21for selective cantilever mounting thereto. The mounting assembly31includes a support platform32configured to vertically support a bottom wall37of the carrier device30thereatop, and a frame assembly33supporting the support platform32.

The frame assembly33, it will be appreciated, not only functions to vertically support the support platform32, but functions to enable cantilever supportive mounting thereof to the structure side wall22. To perform the latter function, the frame assembly includes a movable mounting leg35configured for selective manual manipulation between a stowed position (FIGS. 2 and 6) and a deployed position (FIGS. 1,7and8). In the stowed position, the mounting leg35of the frame assembly33is oriented in a retracted orientation, reducing the overall footprint of the pet bed apparatus20to facilitate transport and storage thereof. In the deployed position, the mounting leg35is extended distally outwardly (e.g., from an abutting side wall36′ of the carrier device30) by an amount sufficient to enable selective friction-fit insertion of at least a portion of the frame assembly33to an inserted position. In this fully inserted position, as shown inFIG. 1, the pet bed apparatus20, via the mounting leg35, is cantilever supported against the side wall22of the bed assembly23.

Accordingly, a portable carrier device30is provided that is capable of simplistic conversion from a pet carrier to a side mounted pet bed apparatus20. By manipulating the mounting leg35of the mounting assembly to the deployed position, the mounting leg can be inserted into the structure interface21(e.g., between the upper mattress25and the lower mattress support26) toward the inserted position (FIG. 1). Consequently, the pet bed can be positioned directly adjacent to, as well as at a similar height as, the upper mattress of the bed assembly. The pet carrier device and portable pet bed apparatus of the present invention, thus, enable one's pet to nearly share a sleeping arrangement with their owner without having their pet directly occupy the owner's same bed assembly.

Referring back toFIGS. 4 and 5, the carrier device30may function as a conventional pet bed, especially when additional bedding (not shown) is added to, or disposed in, the bedding space29. The bedding space29, therefore, is not only sized and dimensioned to accommodate the pet in a resting position, but also may accommodate a pet mattress or additional bedding to enhance bedding comfort.

The outer shell41of the carrier device preferably includes the bottom wall37and the plurality of side walls36upstanding from a peripheral edge of the bottom wall. The collective upper peripheral edges40of the side walls36, therefore, define the opening24into the carrier device bedding space29. The abutting side wall36′ of the plurality of peripheral side walls36, in particular, is size, shaped and oriented to enable substantially flush seating against the side wall22of the structure (e.g., the bed assembly23), in the inserted condition (FIG. 1). This, of course, enables the carrier device30to be placed substantially adjacent to the bed assembly, positioning the bedding space29at or near the same height as the upper surface of the upper mattress.

The orientation of the abutting side wall36′ is also suitably sized and shaped for positioning substantially flush against a back rest portion91of an automobile seat92(FIG. 14). As will be detailed below, the present inventive pet bed apparatus therefore also functions as a pet carrier device that can be secured in the seating of an automobile using the conventional automobile seat belting thereof.

With respect to the outer shape of the remaining peripheral side walls36, it will be appreciated that they can be virtually any shape. Preferably, as shown inFIG. 11, the remaining peripheral side walls are collectively rectangular or D-shaped, for a pleasing aesthetic appearance. Moreover, the carrier device may be provided with varying sizes, heights, widths, etc. to accommodate various size pets, such as cats, and especially the differing size of dogs, depending upon the breed. Typically, however, the carrier device may be provided in a small, medium and large size to accommodate most typical domestic pets. For instance, the small size carrier device may have height, width and depth dimension in the range of about 1′ H×1′6″ W×1′2″ D (e.g., to accommodate pets weighing in the range of about 1 lb to about 12 lbs), while the medium size carrier device may have height, width and depth dimension in the range of about 1′ H×1′10″ W×1′4″ D (e.g., to accommodate pets weighing in the range of about 1 lb to about 20 lbs). With respect to the large size carrier device, the height, width and depth dimension are preferably in the range of about 1′ H×2′6″ W×1′8″ D (e.g., to accommodate pets weighing in the range of about 1 lb to about 40 lbs). Such dimensions and weight ranges, however, may vary of course.

The carrier device itself may be provided by a single unitary structure, or be a multiple piece construction. Preferably, as shown in the exploded view ofFIG. 4, the carrier device30is comprised of the rugged outer shell41, a padded insert42and comfortable inner liner material, all configured to seat in a nested orientation. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the shape, dimension and size of each subsequent inner component thereof is substantially similar to, albeit slightly smaller than, the outer shell41.

With respect to the design properties of the outer shell41, a lightweight, yet strong, rigid or semi-rigid design is most desirable that is also cost effective to manufacture. Such outer shell constructions may include lightweight fabrics or synthetic polymer materials, such as nylon, that are interiorly reinforced with paper, cardboard, plastic, foam, rubber and/or wood material inserts, similar to that of luggage grade constructions. Other lightweight materials include natural materials and weaves, composites and/or combinations thereof.

The padded insert42is preferably provided by a conventional lightweight, flexible material, such as a poly-fill material. Such a poly-fill insert42adds stout interior padding for the pet occupant, is washable and can be easily removed from the outer shell41, yet be secured therein. The padding thickness can vary, but is preferably in the range of about ¾″ to about 2″ thick. In another pillow-shaped pad, the thickness may be on the order of ¾″ on the sides and 3″-6″ in the middle.

Depending in-part upon the friction fit cooperation between the padded insert within the bedding space29of outer shell41, the insert may just be seated inside without any fasteners or adhesive. In other instances, the padded insert42may be removably coupled within the shell through fasteners, snap buttons and/or VELCRO®, or the like.

The inner liner43is also provided by a comfortable, washable material, sized and dimensioned to be placed fit over and adjacent to the interiorly facing surface of the padded insert42. Such liner material may be provided a synthetic fur material or other soft material, for example, to promote comfort.

The padded insert42is preferably enclosed within and between the interior (i.e., the bedding space29) of the outer shell41and the inner liner43. This arrangement facilitates positioning of the padded insert42with the outer shell, as well as facilitating cleanliness. To enclose the padded insert42within the bedding space29of the outer shell, the upper peripheral edge of the inner liner43is mounted at or proximate to the collective upper peripheral edges40of the upstanding side walls36of the outer shell. Preferably, a fastening device45, such as a zipper or the like, is located about ½″ to about 2″ below the shell upper peripheral edges40. By applying this fastener device45between the liner43and the outer shell41, the liner can easily removably coupled thereto.

As mentioned above, the carrier device30can be used as a pet transportation unit as well. Thus, to accommodate a shoulder strap or handle47to facilitate lifting of the carrier, two D-Rings46are mounted on opposed side walls36of the carrier device30. Applying conventional strap and latch buckle hardware, the shoulder strap and/or handle47can removably mounted to the D-Rings46.

In one specific configuration, the shoulder strap or handle47can be provided by a convention one or two piece construction. In the two piece design, for instance, as best illustrates inFIG. 8, each respective strap piece48,48′ is independently mounted to a corresponding D-Ring46on one end, and removably fastened to one another on the opposed ends, for example, a VELCRO® fastener49.

For covered transport of the carrier device30, a collapsible cover device or hood50can be removably installed over the opening24into the bedding space29of the outer shell41. In this manner, the pet bed apparatus20can be converted into a completely covered carrier device for enclosed transport of the pet. This design, of course, is beneficial to prevent escape of the pet occupant, as well as keeping them dry during inclement weather. Furthermore, this containment also functions to hold the pet occupant until they become more comfortable an accustomed to the bed itself.

As best illustrated inFIGS. 5 and 10, the collapsible hood50is designed to upstand from the upper peripheral edges40of the outer shell side walls36, as opposed to merely extending horizontally over the opening24. The collapsible hood50, thus, provide ample head space for the pet occupant to sit or stand-up.

In accordance with the present invention, the hood50is capable of collapsing, reducing its overall footprint. For instance, the collapsible hood50may be moved between an extended, covered condition (FIGS. 5 and 10) and a collapsed, folded condition (not shown), collapsing in an accordion-type fashion similar to a hood of a baby stroller. Similarly, as shown inFIG. 10, the hood50may include a plurality of U-shaped reinforcement ribs51, each having opposed ends52pivotally mounted to pivot mounts53oriented at the opposed corners of the hood. These ribs51must be sufficiently flexible to bend into the arch or U-shape form of the material web portions55between adjacent ribs51, yet be sufficiently rigid and resilient to tautly deploy and retain this hooded form when inserted or sewn into receiving channels of the web portions55.

In one specific configuration, at least three reinforcement ribs51are provided, pivotally spaced-apart about a rotational axis56, forming the pivot mounts53for the reinforcement ribs during movement between the extended, covered condition (FIGS. 5 and 10) and a collapsed, folded condition (not shown). Material examples of such reinforcement ribs include plastics, fiberglass, nylon and wood for varying thicknesses and compositions.

These U-shaped ribs51may be substantially the same size, or may be slightly sequentially smaller. The latter arrangement enables a nested, folded relationship when moved to the collapsed, folded condition. This is beneficial in that, when the hood50is in the collapsed orientation, it may be seated more flush against the arched section of the upper peripheral edges40of the outer shell side walls36. By comparison, reinforcement ribs that are substantially the same diameter would tend to stack up upon one another, in the collapsed, folded condition.

As mentioned above, the flexible crescent-shaped web portions55extend between the adjacent reinforcement ribs51, forming a closure therebetween for the hood50. Preferably, each web portion55is composed of a flexible nylon material that provides sufficient strength, yet semi-breathability for the pet occupant. To further promote breathability, however, a central web portion57of the hood50is composed of a nylon mesh or rubber coated nylon mesh material, offering greater porosity, and thus greater breathability.

To removably mount the hood50to the outer shell41, the lower peripheral edge portion60of the hood is affixed to the opposed upper facing peripheral edges40of the outer shell through a fastener device58. This edge to opposed edge affixation facilitates mounting ease therebetween, as well provide easier visual assurance that such affixation is maintained, and thus, not compromised. In one specific embodiment, the fastened device58is also provided by a zipper mechanism or the like. It will be appreciated that the fastener device can be provided by any removable fastener, such as by a plurality of button-type fasteners. In such an arrangement, however, the space must be sufficiently close so as not to permit the pet occupant to escape therebetween.

In one specific configuration, as shown inFIG. 5, a front portion of the collapsible hood50includes a D-shaped hood opening61, thus providing access to the outer shell bedding space29, even when the collapsible hood50is mounted to the outer shell41. This is true whether the hood50is oriented in the unfolded condition or the folded, collapsed condition. In such a configuration, therefore, to fully enclose the opening24, a substantially flat, D-shaped closure screen62is required that is sized and dimensioned to snugly fit within the D-shaped hood opening61. This screen includes a D-shaped outer frame63that provides strength and rigidity similar to that of reinforcement ribs51. A nylon, breathable mesh material64extends between the D-shaped outer frame63, thus forming the closure screen. This mesh material64is the same or substantially the same as that deployed in the crescent-shaped central web portion57. Examples of such materials include nylon or rubber coated nylon material.

In a mounting manner similar to that between the collapsible hood50and the outer shell, a zipper-type closure screen fastener65or the like may line the outer periphery of the closure screen. However, since the U-shaped portion of the D-shaped opening61is formed by the front portion of the hood50, while the bottom edge of the D-shaped opening is formed by one peripheral edge of the upstanding outer shell side wall36, two independent zipper-type fasteners are employed. The closure screen fastener65, thus, includes an upper first fastener portion66, and an independent lower second portion67. Accordingly, when both the upper first and lower second portions66,67of the zipper-type closure screen fastener65are fully engaged, ingress and egress by the pet occupant, through the D-shaped opening61, is fully prevented by closure screen.

In another specific embodiment, the closure screen62may include a central, vertical access zipper68. When unzipped, thus, the ingress and egress may be accomplished therethrough without requiring removal or partial removal of the closure screen from the pet bed apparatus20.

It will be appreciated that, collectively, the collapsible hood50and closure screen62, similar to that of the outer shell41, are sufficient stout and rugged to contain a properly sized domestic pet therein, without fear of escape therefrom. In one embodiment, the collapsible hood50and closure screen62are constructed from luggage grade reinforced framing and material webbing, as disclosed.

In accordance with the present invention, as mentioned above, one particularly beneficial aspect is the ability to convert the pet carrier device into a pet bed that can be side mounted to the structure23, in a cantilever mounted manner. Preferably, the structure23upon which the carrier device30can be primarily mounted is a conventional bed assembly where the mounting legs35,35′ are slid into the interface21between the mattresses.

Referring back toFIGS. 6 and 7, the mount is provided by the mounting assembly31which cantilever supports and secures the carrier device30to the bed assembly23. Briefly, as already described previously, the mounting assembly31includes a support platform32configured to vertically support the bottom wall37of the carrier device30thereatop. The support platform is preferably provided by a thin, plate-like support composed of a relatively rigid, yet lightweight material. Such suitable cost effective material would include plastic, wood, particle boards, heavy weight cardboards, etc., but also may include metallic materials as well. By way of example, the support platform32may be provided by ¼″ thick plastic plate having a D-shaped peripheral footprint that substantially conforms to that of the bottom wall37of the carrier device30.

The mounting assembly31, as indicated, includes a frame assembly33, coupled to the bottom of the support platform32, that further includes one or more mounting legs35that can be manually manipulated for movement between the stowed position (FIGS. 2 and 6) and the deployed position (FIGS. 1,7and8). In the stowed position, the frame assembly33is preferably in a retracted orientation reducing the longitudinal length of the frame assembly33and, thus, the overall footprint of the pet bed apparatus20. This position facilitates transport and storage thereof. In the deployed position, the mounting leg or portions35,35′ of the frame assembly33are extended outwardly from a lip portion70of the support platform32. This extension is by an amount sufficient to enable selective friction-fit insertion of at least a portion of the mounting leg35and at least the lip portion70of the support platform32into the interface21between two opposed surfaces27,28of the structure23(e.g., the bed assembly, a couch, etc.).

The frame assembly33further includes a skeletal metallic support frame71that functions to provide structural rigidity and support between the one or more mounting legs35and the support platform32. As best viewed inFIGS. 6 and 7, this support frame is also primarily D-shaped, having an arch-shaped outer support element72, preferably conforming to the foot print of the support platform32, although not necessary. Two or more cross-members73extend laterally across the outer support element72that are either fastened, welded or integrally formed therewith for rigid support.

In accordance with the present invention, the one or more mounting legs35,35′ each extend generally perpendicular to the two or more cross-members73, and that are formed and dimensioned for movement between the stowed positions (FIGS. 2 and 6) and deployed position (FIGS. 1,7and8). As will be described in greater detail below, in one preferred specific configuration, the one or more mounting legs35,35′ are provided by a pair of spaced-apart support tubes74,74′, disposed substantially parallel to one another, and a pair of corresponding leg portions75,75′ slideably cooperating with the support tubes. These tubes74,74′ are rigidly affixed to the cross-members73, adding rigidity to the frame assembly33.

Accordingly, not only do these support tubes74,74′ provide a means for sliding reciprocal receipt of the corresponding leg portions75,75′ therein, but also provide a means for mounting the frame assembly33to the support platform32. In one specific embodiment, that is, each support tube74,74′ includes a plurality of corresponding mounting brackets76,76′ that mount the frame assembly33to the bottom of the support platform32.

The structure23upon which the pet bed apparatus20is cantilever side mounted can virtually be any device having a generally vertical side wall22, and a generally horizontal interface capable of receiving the frame assembly. As best shown inFIG. 7, when the extended leg portions75,75′ of the frame assembly33are fully manipulated toward the inserted position, the weight of the carrier device30and mounting assembly31, plus an anticipated maximum weight of the pet occupant, can be fully cantilever supported between the interface21. That is, in general, the primary contacting and weight bearing regions of the leg portions (i.e., generally the upper facing distal surfaces77of the extended leg portions75,75′ that contact the downward facing surface28of the upper mattress25, and the lower facing proximal surface78of the support tubes74,74′ that contact the upward facing surface27of the lower mattress support26) must be sufficiently stout to accommodate the maximum anticipated shear forces that may be encountered.

When the mounting assembly31is fully positioned in the inserted position, by sufficiently spacing the two support tubes74,74′ and the corresponding leg portions75,75′, laterally apart, rotational mounting stability of the pet bed apparatus20is maintained when cantilever mounted in the interface21of the structure23(e.g., the mattresses of a bed). That is, by sufficiently spacing the support tubes/leg portions apart laterally, they cooperate with one another, and the mattresses, to prevent undesirable spinning about a longitudinal axis of one or the other mounting legs35,35′, when oriented in the inserted condition.

Many techniques can be employed as a means to enable lengthening the mounting legs35,35′ from the stowed position to the deployed position. Preferably, the leg portions75,75′ are telescopically configured, slideably nested within the corresponding support tubes74,74′, thereby significantly reducing its footprint in the stowed position, while maximizing its length extension in the deployed position (FIGS. 6 and 7).

Each support tube74,74′ defines a respective central bore (not shown) extending longitudinally therethrough, that is sized and dimensioned for sliding reciprocation of the leg portion75,75′ therein. Thus, it is only the leg portion75,75′ that essentially slides and reciprocate between the stowed and deployed positions.

Extending between the leg portions75,75′ is a cross-bar80that provides structural and lateral stability to the assembly, while further enabling both leg portions75,75′ to be extended and retracted, together as a unit, between the stowed and deployed positions. Thus, the cross-bar not only provides structural integrity to the mounting assembly, but also functions as a handle member to enable simultaneous manipulation and operation of both leg portions75,75′, together as a unit, between the stowed and deployed positions. The handle member may include a friction fit foam or rubber cover may be included that reduces movement of the platform from the bed, when in the inserted position.

Employing a telescopic mechanism similar to the telescopic handle extensions of rolling luggage, the cross-bar80may extend across, and be fixedly attached to, the distal ends of the leg portions75,75′. The placement of the cross-bar80along the leg portions, however, may of course be oriented at other locations longitudinally therealong. The telescopic mechanism may also include a latch or lock mechanism (not shown) for selective and/or automatic locking of the leg portions75,75′ relative to the outer support tube74,74′, in either the stowed position and the deployed position. Such a lock mechanism may be button operated at a handle portion of the cross-bar80, by way of example, to prevent inadvertent extension of the leg portions75,75′, and/or retraction thereof, especially during insertion of the extended mounting legs35,35′ into the interface21toward the inserted position.

Preferably, the collective longitudinal length of the frame assembly33is in the range of about 3″ to about 4″, in the deployed position, while the length of the cross-bar is such that the respective leg portions75,75′ are about 2″ to about 6″ from the outer edges of the support platform32. These lengths, in general, have been selected for lateral and rotational stability of the carrier device during cantilever mounting in the insertion position. Thus, depending upon the selected size of the carrier device (i.e., small, medium or large), the collective length and lateral spacing of the frame assembly, in the deployed position, may vary. At the same time, such a length of the leg portions, in the stowed position, is not too long so as to diminish the small overall footprint of the pet bed assembly base. As a general rule, the length of the leg portions75,75′, in the deployed position is about three times the depth of the carrier device30, as shown inFIG. 1.

To maximize the collective length of the frame assembly33, in the deployed position, it will be understood that the length of each leg portion75,75′ should be substantially the same as that of the outer support tube74,74′. In this manner, of course, the full length of the central bore is efficiently utilized, reducing the length of the support tube as well.

It will further be appreciated that multiple telescopic extensions can be employed, of course, to reduce the length footprint of each mounting leg35,35′. Although the total longitudinal length of the frame assembly could be increased, the costs and complexity to the frame assembly would significantly increase as well.

It will further be understood that the width dimension of the inner leg portions75,75′ should be sufficient so as to minimize lateral movement thereof while reciprocating in the corresponding central bore of the support tubes74,74′, while at the same time, having a sufficient to enable smooth sliding reciprocation therebetween. Such tolerances, for example, should again be similar to luggage grade telescopic handle mechanisms. Thus, the compositions of such telescopic leg portions include metals, fiberglass, graphite, plastics, etc., and further range in diameters from about ¾″ to about 2″.

To facilitate portability, the carrier device30is configured to be easily removed from the mounting assembly31. A variety of fasteners and/or latching mechanism82can be incorporated that enable simple and convenient, yet rigid and secure, mounting and dismounting of the carrier device30to and from the support platform32of the mounting assembly31. As best illustrated inFIGS. 1-3,12and13, one such fastening and/or latching device may be provided through a plurality of strap devices83, having a conventional hook and loop fastener material such as VELCRO®, spaced peripherally about the carrier device side walls36.

In one example, as shown inFIGS. 2,3and12, the latching mechanism82may incorporate a plurality of respective strap devices83disposed peripherally about the support platform32to mount the carrier device30to the mounting assembly31. Each strap device83includes a first component85thereof vertically mounted a respective side wall36of the carrier device, and a corresponding loose (or dangling) second component86extending from the top portion of the first component85thereof. In the preferred embodiment, the first component85may incorporate a loop-type material87on its outward facing surface, while the inward facing surface of the second component86may include a hook-type material88. It will be appreciated, of course, that the hook-type material and loop-type material can be easily reversed.

Accordingly, the second component86of each strap device83may be removably fastened to its own first component85thereof. This strap arrangement provides several advantages that enable mounting to multiple devices. For example, by incorporating a set of aligned mounting straps90, each peripherally affixed to about the mounting assembly31and corresponding to a selected strap device, the carrier device30may be removably secured thereto. In another application, as above mentioned and as best shown inFIG. 14, these strap devices83can be operated to mount to, and cooperate with, the safety belts93of an automobile seat92for removable securement thereto.

Referring back to the primary fastening application of these straps, the flexible mounting straps90can be mounted to the support platform32of the frame assembly33. Thus, when the carrier device30is seated atop the support platform32, aligning the curved side wall36with that of the support platform32, each aligned mounting straps90may be oriented in an upstanding manner, and positioned between the corresponding first component85and the second component86of each strap device83. The inward facing surface of each mounting strap90may incorporate a corresponding hook-type material88, while the opposite outwardly facing surface of each strap may incorporate a corresponding loop-type material87. By attaching the hook-type material88of each mounting strap90to the corresponding loop-type material87of the strap device83of the carrier device, the mounting straps can be initially secured (FIGS. 2 and 3). Subsequently, by folding over the corresponding second components86of the respective strap devices83, the hook-type material88thereof can be removably fastened to the corresponding loop-type material87of the mounting strap90, securely sandwiching the mounting strap therebetween and, thus, securing the carrier device to the mounting assembly31(FIG. 12).

In another application of these strap arrangements, as mentioned, either strap enables removably fastening of the strap devices83to conventional safety belts93for secure transport of the carrier device30on the automobile seats92. As shown inFIG. 14, the safety belt93in a conventional automobile may be inserted between the first component85and the second component86of the respective strap devices83, wherein the second component is folded over and attached to the first component, securely sandwiching the safety belt therebetween. Hence, once the abutting wall36′ of the carrier device30is seated against the back rest portion91of the automobile seat92, the safety belt93can then be wrapped peripherally around the carrier device side walls36. Subsequently, the safety belt93may then be inserted between the strap device first and second components85,86, and affixed thereto, securing the carrier device to the vehicle seat.

A two-part positioning strap98facilitates positioning of the safety belt93across the collapsible hood50. Preferably, as shown inFIGS. 5 and 14, the positioning strap98is disposed atop the upper web portion55, at the reinforcement rib51and adjacent the opening61.

In another fastening arrangement, as best illustrated inFIGS. 1,2and13, each strap device83′ may also be provided by a single strap, albeit vertically oriented in an opposite upside-down orientation with respect to the previous embodiments. That is, the loop-type material of the analogous first component85′ can similarly be vertically oriented against the carrier side walls36, but the analogous second component86′, with the corresponding hook-type material, extends distally from the bottom of the first component85′. In this mounting arrangement, each strap device83′ is configured to be cooperatively received in a bracket or loop94that is attached to the mounting assembly31. Preferably, as shown, the receiving loops94may be mounted to the support frame71or support platform32.

Hence, during mounting of the carrier device to the support platform, once aligned, the distal end of the second component86′ of the strap device83′ can be inserted through the corresponding loop94. Once, fully inserted, each strap device83′ can be pulled up upon, drawing the carrier device snuggly against the support platform32. Subsequently, each strap device second component86can be secured to its corresponding first component85′ in a fastened manner.

To cantilever mount the pet bed apparatus20to a structure23, such as a conventional bed, the leg portions75,75′ are slideably telescoped to their deployed position (FIGS. 1,7and8), where the locking mechanism secures the mounting assembly in place. Subsequently, the leg portions75,75′ and frame assembly33can be inserted into the interface21, between the mattresses and slid inwardly fully toward the insert position (FIG. 1). In this orientation, the lip portion70of the support platform32is also slid between the mattresses, further augmenting mounting stability. The depth that the lip portion70slides between the mattresses is preferably in the range of about 6″ to about 10″, until the abutting side wall36′ of the carrier device30seats in an abutting manner against the corresponding side wall22of the upper mattress. Accordingly, in this arrangement, the pet bed apparatus can be securely cantilever mounted into the interface of the mattresses.

For additional vertical support and stability, especially when the larger carrier device30is employed, likely housing a larger, heavier, pet occupant, the frame assembly33may further include a vertical support leg95(FIGS. 6,8and9). As shown, this vertical support leg95, disposed under the support platform32, is preferably configured to articulate between a stored position (FIG. 6), generally oriented parallel and adjacent to the bottom surface of the support platform, and a support position (FIGS. 8 and 9), generally oriented perpendicular to the bottom surface of the support platform32for contact and support against the ground. Accordingly, depending upon the vertical height of the interface21from the ground, by adjust the height of the vertical support leg95to supportively contact the ground, the support leg can provided structural support and stability to the pet bed apparatus20.

In on specific embodiment, the support leg95may include a central support bar96and a cross-bar97coupled to the distal end of the support bar. Collectively, the support leg95forms an inverted T-shape having the bottom cross-bar97that is configured to supportively contact the ground, in the support position. A proximal end of the support bar is hingedly mounted to the frame assembly33for selective articulation between the stored position and the support position. The support bar96may be telescopic, similar to the leg portions75of the mounting assembly, to accommodate different bed heights, for instance.

Referring now toFIG. 15, an alternative embodiment pet bed apparatus20is illustrated, comprising a lightweight, one piece design. In the most simplistic embodiment, both the carrier device30and the mounting assembly31may be provided by a wire or plastic mesh material, either integrally formed or fastened together at the bottom of the carrier device.

The carrier device30, for example, may be provided by a circular, oval or rectangular basket, defining the bedding space29therein. To add structural support to the carrier device30, an upper rim frame98and a spaced lower rim frame99are provided upon which the spanning mesh material100is attached.

Similar to the previous embodiments, a fabric bedding material or the like (not shown) may be disposed in the carrier device bedding space, having a poly filled fabric liner. The upper portion of the liner may be folded over the upper rim frame99of the carrier device30, and secured around the bottom edge with either an elastic band, ribbon or fabric tie.

In this embodiment, the mounting assembly31may be provided by a single piece wire or plastic mesh frame assembly33in the shape of a tongue that extends horizontally outwardly from the bottom wall of the carrier device30. This one-piece frame assembly33functions to both provide vertical support to the carrier device30, as well as functioning to support the carrier device in the cantilever mounted orientations when it is inserted between bed assembly interface. That is, the distal portion of the one-piece frame assembly33, extending under the carrier device30(analogous to the support platform32in the above embodiments), while the proximal portion of this frame assembly33is configured for selective friction-fit insertion of at least a portion thereof to the inserted position between the bed assembly (analogous to the extended mounting legs35,35′ in the above embodiments).

In one configuration of this embodiment, the frame assembly33includes an outer circumferential support frame101extending peripherally around a wire or plastic mesh material102that spans the enclosed area defined thereabout. This support frame101is preferably tubular, and composed of metal or plastic, or other comparable rigid material. The diameter of the tubular frame of course depends upon the material composition thereof, but must be sufficient to easily accommodate the anticipated maximum weight of the pet occupant and the carrier device, in the cantilever supported manner.

Alternatively, the frame assembly33of the lightweight embodiment ofFIG. 15may be provided by a detachable two-piece configuration (i.e., a proximal frame assembly103, and a distal frame assembly104) that can be manually manipulated between a detached stowed position (FIG. 17) and an assembled deployed position (FIGS. 16 and 18). In the stowed position, in particular, a proximal circumferential support frame101A of the proximal frame assembly103is detachable from a distal circumferential support frame101B of the distal frame assembly104, reducing the longitudinal length of the frame assembly33and, thus, the overall footprint of the pet bed apparatus20. As mentioned above, this position facilitates transport and storage of the pet bed apparatus.

In the assembled deployed position (FIGS. 16 and 18), the proximal circumferential support frame101A of the proximal frame assembly103attachably cooperates with the distal circumferential support frame101B of the distal frame assembly104, longitudinally extending the frame assembly33outwardly from the distal frame assembly. The length of this extension is by an amount sufficient to enable the bed apparatus to cantilever mount to the mounting structure (e.g., a bed apparatus) when the proximal frame assembly103is friction-fit inserted into the structure interface (not shown inFIGS. 16-20) until at least a proximal portion of the distal frame assembly104.

As best viewed inFIG. 17, each of the proximal circumferential support frame101A and the distal circumferential support frame101B is generally U-shaped, and disposed in an opposed relationship to one another when attached together in the assembled deployed position (FIGS. 16 and 18). Generally, each frame portion101A,101B includes a pair of spaced-apart support tubes105A,105A′ and105B,105B′, and corresponding central bight portions106A,106B coupling the support tubes therebetween. To provide further support and stability, each circumferential support frame101A,101B includes a respective cross-member107A,107B that rigidly couples the opposed ends of the corresponding support tubes105A,105A′ and105B,105B′ together, forming a rigid peripheral frame for each circumferential support frame.

Similar to the embodiment ofFIG. 15, a wire or plastic mesh material108A,108B is disposed between the enclosed areas of the proximal circumferential support frame101A and the distal circumferential support frame101B, providing further support. With respect to the distal circumferential support frame101B and mesh material108B of the distal frame assembly104, mounting support must be provided to support the carrier device30thereatop.

Preferably, the carrier device30is removably mounted to the distal circumferential support frame101B by applying any of the mounting techniques above-mentioned. As best viewed inFIGS. 16-18, the above-mentioned VELCRO®-style latching mechanisms82may be applied. For instance, the distal circumferential support frame101B may incorporate loops94, which are aligned to cooperate with corresponding mounting straps83on the carrier device30.

To attach and detach the proximal circumferential support frame101A of the proximal frame assembly103to the distal circumferential support frame101B of the distal frame assembly104, corresponding coupling mechanisms110,110′ cooperate between the opposed ends of the pair of spaced-apart support tubes105A,105A′ and105B,105B′. The coupling mechanisms110,110′ are manually operable between a release position (FIG. 17), enabling separation of the proximal frame assembly103from the distal frame assembly104, and a locked position (FIGS. 16 and 18), releasably locking the frame assemblies therebetween.

One particularly suitable coupling mechanism110,110′ is a conventional biased ball bearing-type snap connection, each of which includes a male insertion end111,111′, on one end of the support tubes105A,105A′ and105B,105B′, and a female receiving end112,112′. on the end of the other support tubes105B,105B′ and105A,105A′. As best illustrated inFIG. 17, in one particular example, the insertion end is provided by respective insertion finger portions111,111′ protrude outwardly from the ends of distal support tubes105B,105B′ the distal frame assembly104. These insertion fingers111,111′, preferably have a diameter less than that of the corresponding support tube, and are more preferably sized and dimensioned for friction-fit insertion into the corresponding receiving ends or sockets112,112′ on the end of the other of the proximal support tubes105A,105A′, respectively. When these support tubes105A,105A′ and105B,105B′ are respectively coupled together, in the locked position (FIGS. 16 and 18), they collectively form the extended mounting legs35,35′ for secure positioning in a structure interface for cantilever mounting thereof.

Accordingly, in this specific embodiment, the support tube ends of the proximal support platform portion104define the receiving sockets112,112′ that are formed and dimensioned for sliding, friction-fit receipt of the corresponding insertion fingers111,111′ therein.

Each coupling mechanism110,110′ may include a lock device (not shown) that is biased to automatically lock the coupling mechanisms in the locked position once each insertion finger111,111′ is fully inserted, and engaged, into the corresponding receiving sockets112,112′. One conventional lock device, by way of example, may be provided by a simple outwardly biased ball bearing-type key device disposed on the respective insertion finger. This key device is aligned to engage a corresponding recess formed in the support tube receiving socket. Other conventional locking devices include threaded locking devices, or even just a friction-fit mounting.

It will be further understood from the foregoing description that various modifications and changes may be made in the preferred and alternative embodiments of the present invention without departing from the its true spirit.