Patent Publication Number: US-10321775-B2

Title: Simulated platform bed system

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present invention relates generally to bed furniture and, more specifically, to bed accessories and systems, which provide a specific and desirable aesthetic appearance to bed furniture. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Typical beds include a mattress supported above a floor surface by a mattress support. As is widely known, mattresses come in certain sizes, such as twin, full, queen, and king, each having a respective width between side edges and a respective length between the head end edge and the foot end edge thereof. The types of mattress supports available for beds of these different sizes are varied and provide different types of advantages. 
     One popular type of mattress support is a platform bed. Platform beds have an aesthetic style that is regarded by some as desirable. Platform beds are manufactured by rigidly joining together rigid panels (formed from wood or similar materials) that produce a solid frame on which the mattress is supported, with the panels resting upon and extending upwardly from a floor surface to above the bottom side of the mattress. The panels thus completely surround the mattress along a bottom exterior thereof, while also blocking off access, visually and otherwise, to the area below the mattress. The panels on the side edges of the mattress must have a length corresponding to the length of the mattress, and the panels at the head and/or foot end edges must have a width corresponding to the width of the mattress so that the mattress can be received therebetween. The panels must also be able to support the weight of the mattress and any people and/or things thereon. The exterior aspects of the panels of the platform bed can present an aesthetically desirable appearance as a result of a decorative feature such as wood stain. But platform beds are generally very expensive, thus limiting their availability in many settings. Moreover, platform beds are typically also quite heavy which limits the ability of their owners to move the bed when necessary. 
     A lower cost option and a more easily transportable mattress support are provided when using a metal bed frame. The metal bed frame is typically characterized by L-shaped side rails that are spaced apart to match the width of the mattress with an exterior portion sitting astride the side edges of the mattress. The side rails are joined by lateral rails to define the bed frame, but the side rails are typically shorter than the length of the mattress so as not to project to or beyond the foot end edge of the mattress supported thereon. The mattress may be placed directly on the frame, or a box spring may be placed on the bed frame with the mattress supported thereon. The mattress is thus supported above the floor surface, but with a much less costly and lighter form of mattress support than that provided by a platform bed. However, these metal bed frames present their own drawbacks. For example, the frame may have legs that rest on the floor surface, but the area below the mattress is otherwise exposed and open. Moreover, the frames themselves, to the extent they present an exterior portion, such as at the side rails, are not particularly desirable to many users or consumers from an aesthetic standpoint. 
     These deficiencies of the various conventional designs are exacerbated in commercial contexts such as hotels, where both cost effectiveness, in view of the high number of beds that need to be provided, and desirable aesthetics, to entice new and repeat customers, are each highly important aspects when deciding what types of beds and mattress supports to use. Even in personal or home use contexts, it is highly desirable to achieve an attractive aesthetic appearance of a bed without spending an excessive amount of money or significantly limiting possible movements of the bed. Conventional designs like the platform bed and the metal frame bed are not viable options for achieving all of these goals. 
     The Assignee-Applicant of the present application has therefore developed simulated platform bed systems to help achieve these objectives in a better way than the conventional designs. To this end, one prior design of such a simulated platform bed system, which may be formed from a number of separate panels that are configured to fold up for storage or transport, is described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,089,222. 
     It would be desirable to provide further alternative and/or improved designs for a simulated platform bed system, which continue to address the various drawbacks of bed designs like the platform bed and the metal frame bed. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one embodiment, a simulated platform bed system is provided which provides the appearance of a platform bed without necessitating the high weight, cost, or structure necessary for carrying the weight of a mattress and/or mattress support defining a bed. In this regard, the system includes a base extending in a generally U-shape configuration along first and second side edges and a foot end edge of the bed. At least a portion of the base is defined by a plurality of slats connected together so as to allow relative pivotal movement of adjacent slats. The slats are oriented vertically such that a vertical height defined by each of the slats is greater than a horizontal width or a thickness defined by each of the slats. The slats provide a lightweight construction for the system while also enabling the system to bend around corners of the bed. The system also includes an exterior aspect facing outwardly from the base with respect to the bed, the exterior aspect including a decorative feature. The system is situated about the mattress support such that the system covers at least a portion of a spacing, which is defined between a bottom of the mattress and a floor surface on which the mattress support sits upon, along each of the first and second side edges and the foot end edge of the bed. Accordingly, the system simulates the appearance of a platform bed but it does not support a weight of the mattress. Thus, desirable aesthetic appearance, portability, and low cost (as a result of the use of a metal bed frame or some other similar inexpensive mattress support which is hidden from view by the system) are simultaneously achieved with the system of this design. 
     In one aspect, the base defines a vertical height equal to or greater than the spacing between the mattress and the floor surface such that the system extends into contact with the floor surface following positioning about the mattress support. The base may further include an upper edge extending along the generally U-shape configuration with a flap portion projecting from this upper edge. The flap portion is configured to tuck between the mattress and the mattress support to retain the system in location relative to the bed. In versions of the system where a fabric layer defines the exterior aspect, this same fabric layer may also define the flap portion. To assist with this securing in position, the flap portion in some embodiments includes coupling elements (hooks or otherwise) configured to engage with at least one of the mattress and the mattress support so as to secure the flap portion and the system in position. The system can alternatively or also include at least one strap member extending between the first and second side edges of the bed to connect the flap portion to itself along the first and second side edges, thereby to further assure retention of the system in position. 
     In another aspect, the base includes a first corner portion made of a first portion of the plurality of slats and a second corner portion made of a second portion of the plurality of slats. The first corner portion wraps around a first bed corner defined at a junction of the first side edge and the foot end edge, while the second corner portion similarly wraps around a second bed corner defined at a junction of the second side edge and the foot end edge. Each of the first and second corner portions extends along at least portions of the foot end edge and the corresponding side edge on opposite sides of the bed corner. In one example, the first and second corner portions extend at least two inches on the opposite sides of the bed corner to allow for a smooth, curved profile around those bed corners. The plurality of slats in some embodiments defines an entirety of the base so as to have slats along the first and second side edges, the foot end edge, and the first and second corner portions. In other embodiments, a plurality of unitary panels extends between and is coupled to one or both of the first and second corner portions, while also extending along one of the side edges or the foot end edge. Regardless of the particular internal base construction, the system in one embodiment provides the simulated platform bed appearance with a single, continuous piece to define the generally U-shape configuration. 
     As noted above, the exterior aspect includes a fabric layer in some embodiments. The fabric layer has a pattern or coloring defining the decorative feature, and the fabric layer is bonded to the base along an outward-facing surface of the base which faces away from the mattress support. The fabric layer may be omitted in other embodiments where a wood stain on the slats or some other element is used to define the exterior aspect and the decorative feature. The system also typically includes a backing material bonded to the base along an inward-facing surface of the base. For example, the backing material includes a second fabric layer defined by a different material or decorative pattern than the fabric layer used on the exterior aspect. This second fabric layer may allow the system to be reversible such that different decorative features may be provided in the simulated platform bed system, as the base construction with a plurality of slats can bend around corners regardless of whether the inward-facing surface or the outward-facing surface is directed away from the bed. 
     Other features may also be provided along an interior aspect of the system which faces inwardly towards the mattress support. To this end, the interior aspect includes in some embodiments loops which are connected to the base along a lower edge thereof. Stabilizing rods may be inserted through the loops to maintain the generally U-shape configuration along the first and second side edges and along the foot end edge of the bed. The interior aspect may also include fastening elements which directly couple the system to the mattress support, such as hook and loop fasteners or bracket-type fasteners, among others. The base may also be spaced from the floor surface when situated about the mattress support in another aspect. 
     In accordance with another embodiment, a simulated platform bed is defined by a mattress, a mattress support sitting on a floor surface and supporting the mattress by carrying the weight thereof, and a simulated platform bed system positioned around the mattress support. The system includes a base and an exterior aspect as described in detail above, such that the system presents the appearance of a platform bed without carrying the weight of the mattress. Once again, the base of the system is at least partially defined by a plurality of slats. The mattress support includes a box spring and a frame, these elements typically being hidden from view by the simulated platform bed system. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, with a detailed description of the embodiments given below, serve to explain the principles of the invention. 
         FIG. 1  is a top perspective view of a simulated platform bed which includes a simulated platform bed system in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 2  is an exploded top perspective view of a mattress and a mattress support defining a portion of the simulated platform bed of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a top perspective view of the simulated platform bed system of  FIG. 1 , with the system shown by itself to reveal additional features thereof, the system being in the U-shape configuration that wraps around the bed when the system is placed around the mattress and mattress support. 
         FIG. 4  is a top perspective view of the simulated platform bed system of  FIG. 3  in combination with a bed frame defining part of the mattress support of the bed, with a different decorative feature shown on an exterior aspect of the system. 
         FIG. 5A  is an internal perspective view of a cutaway portion of the simulated platform bed system of  FIG. 1  that is specifically located about a bed corner when the system is installed, this view revealing additional features along an internal aspect of the system with a flap portion shown in an upright position. 
         FIG. 5B  is an internal perspective view of the cutaway portion of the simulated platform bed system of  FIG. 5A , with the flap portion pivoted downwardly to be tucked between the mattress and the mattress support, as is typical during use. 
         FIG. 6  is an internal perspective view of the cutaway portion of the simulated platform bed system of  FIG. 5B , with a backing material cut away to reveal an internal construction of a base of the system with a plurality of slats along the entire length of the base. 
         FIG. 7  is an internal perspective view similar to  FIG. 6  of a cutaway portion of a simulated platform bed system according to another embodiment of the invention, this embodiment having a plurality of slats at corner portions. 
         FIG. 8  is a top perspective view of a simulated platform bed in accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the mattress and a box spring being shown in phantom to reveal additional features of the simulated platform bed system used with this embodiment, such as strap members secured with the flap portion and a gap between the bottom of the system and a floor surface. 
         FIG. 9  is a cross-sectional elevation view of the bed frame and the simulated platform bed system of  FIG. 8 , taken along line  9 - 9  in  FIG. 8 , so as to reveal a direct connection between the bed frame and the system using a hook and loop fastener. 
         FIG. 10  is a cross-sectional elevation view similar to  FIG. 9  of the bed frame and a simulated platform bed system according to another embodiment wherein the direct connection between the bed frame and the system uses a bracket connection. 
         FIG. 11  is a top perspective view of a simulated platform bed in accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the view showing additional simulated platform bed system features that are located along a head end edge of the bed. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       FIGS. 1 through 6  show a simulated platform bed  10  in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. To that end, the simulated platform bed  10  includes a bed  12 , which may be of generally conventional construction, and a simulated platform bed system  14  according to the principles of this invention. The bed  12  of the embodiment shown includes a mattress support  16  and a mattress  18 , which is supported by the mattress support  16 . As described in further detail below, the mattress support  16  includes a simple, metal bed frame  32  and a box spring  34  supported atop the bed frame  32 . The mattress support  16  carries the weight of the mattress  18  and positions the mattress  18  above a floor surface  20  by a spacing or first height h as shown in  FIG. 1 . Regardless of the arrangement chosen for the mattress support  16 , the specific aesthetic appearance is not critical because the mattress support  16  is largely or entirely hidden from view thanks to the simulated platform bed system  14 , which is situated about the mattress support  16 . As such, inexpensive supporting structures such as the simple, metal bed frame  32  may be used to reduce costs and to increase portability of the bed  12 , when desired by an end user. 
     The simulated platform bed system  14  includes a base  22  extending in a generally U-shape configuration around the mattress support  16  and an exterior aspect  24  that faces outwardly from the base  22  with respect to the mattress support  16 . As described in further detail below, the base  22  is at least partially defined by a plurality of vertically-oriented slats (not shown in  FIG. 1 ) connected together to allow the base  22  to define a single, continuous piece in this embodiment that bends around first and second corners  26 ,  28  of the bed  12 . The first and second corners  26 ,  28  of the bed  12 , as referred to herein, are collectively defined by corresponding corners on each of the mattress  18 , the bed frame  32 , and the box spring  34 . Therefore, even though the base  22  is positioned specifically about the corners of the bed frame  32  and the box spring  34 , for the sake of efficiency, this is generally referred to in this disclosure as having the base  22  bend around or be located about the first and second corners  26 ,  28 . A similar description applies to the edges of the bed  12  as set forth in further detail below. 
     As will become evident, the simulated platform bed system  14  creates the appearance of a platform bed upon which the mattress  18  appears to be supported. However, it will be appreciated that the mattress  18  is actually supported by the mattress support  16 , which is substantially hidden from view by the system  14 . Thus, the simulated platform bed  10  defines a desirable aesthetic appearance without necessitating the additional costs and limitations associated with an actual platform bed. Instead, a basic and inexpensive mattress support  16  may be used without negatively impacting the aesthetic design or appearance of the simulated platform bed  10 . These and other beneficial features and functionality of the simulated platform bed  10  are described in detail below. 
     Use of several descriptive terms, such as top, bottom, head, foot, side, horizontal, and/or vertical, for example, as it pertains to/describes the simulated platform bed  10  and its components, is from the viewpoint of how the bed  12  and system  14  are normally oriented after installation as shown in  FIG. 1 , unless otherwise noted. However, such descriptive terms used in the specification are not to be deemed limiting on the designs of this application unless otherwise recited in the claims. 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 1 , the metal bed frame  32  sits on the floor surface  20  in this embodiment, and the box spring  34  defines a foundation supported atop the bed frame  32 . It will be appreciated that different types of bed frames and different types of foundations (including, but not limited to, a foam web, slats, or a plywood sheet, etc.) may be used to define the mattress support  16  in other similar embodiments. Likewise, the mattress  18  may be configured to be supported directly on the bed frame  32  without the use of any separate foundation in other embodiments. 
     The elements of the bed  12  collectively define a head end edge  36  which may be configured to be positioned adjacent a head board  38 . A first side edge  40  and a second side edge  42  of the bed  12  extend from the head end edge  36 , and the bed  12  also defines a foot end edge  44  opposite the head end edge  36 . These various edges are shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , for example, and the various edges of the bed  12  are defined by corresponding edges on each of the mattress  18 , the bed frame  32 , and the box spring  34 . Therefore, even though the system  14  is positioned specifically along the side edges and foot end edges of the bed frame  32  and the box spring  34 , for the sake of efficiency, this is generally referred to in this disclosure as having the system  14  be positioned along the first and second side edges  40 ,  42  and the foot end edge  44  of the bed  12 . 
     As described in additional detail below, the generally U-shape configuration of the simulated platform bed system  14  arranges this system to extend along each of the first and second side edges  40 ,  42  as well as the foot end edge  44  when installed as part of the simulated platform bed  10 . With the head board  38  normally positioned against a wall surface in most typical bed arrangements, the system  14  is therefore covering some or all of the mattress support  16  at least along the sides or locations where such a mattress support  16  would normally be visible. Consequently, the appearance of a platform bed is achieved in such a state, which is desirable as set forth above. 
     Further details of the bed  12  and the elements thereof are shown in  FIG. 2 . The bed frame  32  of this embodiment is a conventional metal bed frame  32  which includes lengthwise-extending L-shaped longitudinal rails  50  and widthwise-extending lateral rails  52 . Legs  54  are provided generally near the four corners of the bed frame  32 , and for larger mattresses  18  such as queen or king size, may also be provided at additional locations of the bed frame  32  such as along the longitudinal and lateral rails  50 ,  52 . The longitudinal and lateral rails  50 ,  52  cooperate to define a support surface  56  upon which the box spring  34  (or other similar foundation) is placed with the mattress  18  supported on top of the box spring  34 . As is readily understood in the bedding art, the metal bed frame  32  may be configured to be adjustable in size using telescoping portions of the lateral rails  52  and removable connections between all of the longitudinal and lateral rails  50 ,  52 . Nevertheless, the generalized structure and elements of the bed frame  32  described above remain the same regardless of the size of bed  12  that the bed frame  32  is tailored to receive. 
     The mattress  18  is shown in this embodiment as a conventional mattress and may be any size, such as, for example, twin, full, queen, king, or the like. The mattress  18  is covered in upholstery  57  and includes an upper surface  58 , a plurality of sides  60  and a lower surface  62 . The mattress  18  defines a length L m  along the sides  60  between the head end edge  36  and the foot end edge  44  and a width W m  in the other direction between the opposed sides  60 . The length and width dimensions of the box spring  34  generally match those of the mattress  18  in this embodiment, with the box spring  34  having a length L b  and a width W b . 
     The metal bed frame  32  is sized and configured to accommodate and support the weight of the box spring  34  and the mattress  18 . Particularly, the bed frame  32  has a length L f  extending between the head end edge  36  of the bed  12  and the foot end edge  44  and a width W f . While the length L f  of the bed frame  32  is approximately equal to the length L m  of the mattress  18  in the view shown in  FIG. 2 , it will be appreciated that the length L m  of the mattress  18  may be slightly greater than the length L f  of the bed frame  32  for larger sizes of mattresses where a portion of the mattress  18  extends slightly beyond the bed frame  32  at the foot end edge  44 . Also, while the width W f  of the bed frame  32  is approximately equal as shown in the embodiment of  FIG. 2  to the width W m  of the mattress  18 , the width W f  of the bed frame  32  may be slightly greater than the width W m  of the mattress  18  to allow exterior aspects or flanges  64  projecting upwardly from the longitudinal rails  50  to extend alongside a portion of the box spring  34  (or mattress  18  if placed directly on bed frame  32 ). As previously described with respect to  FIG. 1 , with the legs  54  sitting on the floor surface  20  and the bed  12  fully assembled from the exploded position of  FIG. 2 , the mattress  18  is supported at the first height h (the “spacing”) above the floor surface  20 . Normally this would enable persons outside the bed  12  to see the inexpensive metal bed frame  32 , but the simulated platform bed system  14  is then added to hide these potentially adverse aesthetics of the mattress support  16 . 
     Now with reference to  FIGS. 3 through 6 , further details of the simulated platform bed system  14  of this embodiment are shown in detail. Beginning with  FIG. 3 , the system  14  is shown in its generally U-shape configuration apart from the bed  12 . As shown by the partial cutaway along a portion of the system  14  configured to be placed at the foot end edge  44  of the bed  12 , the system  14  includes the base  22 , which is made up at least partially of vertically-oriented slats  70  connected together. For example, the slats  70  of this embodiment are connected together using tape and/or string (glued to the slats  70 ) extending across a width of the slats  70  in a generally horizontal direction. The tape and string are not visible in  FIG. 3  because these connecting elements are generally positioned on an interior face of the base  22 . However, other types of adhering or connecting elements can be used to couple the slats  70  to one another in other embodiments (such as dry web adhesive strips and the like), and the tape and/or string of this embodiment may be repositioned as well without departing from the scope of the invention. The connection of the slats  70  is adapted to enable some pivotal movement of adjacent slats  70  relative to one another, but the plurality of slats  70  collectively define in this embodiment a single, continuous piece for the base  22  when connected together. To this end, the base  22  of the entire system  14  is defined by a generally rigid unitary member in the illustrated embodiments, even though variations are possible in other embodiments. 
     The base  22  is covered with an exterior aspect  24 , which is defined by a fabric layer  72  in the embodiment shown in  FIG. 3 . The fabric layer  72  may include a decorative feature  74  such as the coloring or pattern shown in  FIG. 4 , depending on the preferences of the end user of the system  14 . The fabric layer  72  is secured to the base  22  with a dry web adhesive  76  which is visible on the exterior surface  78  of the base  22  revealed at the cutaway portion in  FIG. 3 . The dry web adhesive  76  is fire retardant and forms a reliable bond to retain the fabric layer  72  in position on the base  22  to define the exterior aspect  24 . It will be understood that other types of adhesive materials or other fastening components may be used in other embodiments to secure the fabric layer  72  in position relative to the slats  70 . 
     The fabric layer  72  of this embodiment can be defined by upholstery of various types, including those available commercially from Standard Textile Co., Inc., the original Assignee-Applicant of this application. Of course, the exterior aspect  24  defining the decorative feature  74  can include in other similar embodiments any aesthetically desirable feature, non-limiting examples including various types of upholstery or other fabrics, white vinyl, white faux leather, velvet, or surface finishes applied directly to the slats  70  like paint, stain, textures, sculptures, and the like. The decorative feature  74  of the exterior aspect  24  could also be defined by a plain, untreated version of the exterior surface  78  of the base  22  in other embodiments (providing a plain wooden appearance without the strips of dry web adhesive  76  as shown in the cutaway portion of  FIG. 3 ). When a fabric layer  72  is used at the exterior aspect  24 , it will be appreciated that this may be constructed of various conventional materials such as one or more of: natural and/or synthetic fibers, polyester, polypropylene, cotton, etc. The fabric layer  72  also may incorporate additional elements such as, but not limited to: ESD (electrostatic dissipative)/anti-static yarns, including nylon or carbon fibers, and the like; liquid resistant material, such as polyester or polypropylene; liquid resistant coatings or finishes that conform to at least minimum standards established for Level  1  classification by AAMI PB70 Standard, such as a fluorocarbon based finish; and/or an antimicrobial finish. These are but some examples of the materials and options that can be used to provide the exterior aspect  24  of the simulated platform bed system  14 . 
     The system  14  also includes an interior aspect  80  located on an opposite side of the base  22  from the exterior aspect  24 . To this end, the interior aspect  80  is configured to normally face inwardly towards the mattress support  16  as shown in the configuration of  FIGS. 3 and 4 . The interior aspect  80  of this embodiment includes a backing material  82  in the form of a second fabric layer which is bonded to the base  22  along the inward-facing inner surface thereof (shown and described below with reference to  FIG. 5B ). This second fabric layer is typically provided from a different, typically less expensive fabric material than what defines the fabric layer  72  of the exterior aspect  24 . The second fabric layer is connected to the slats  70  of the base  22  in a similar manner as described above for the other fabric layer  72 , e.g., with strips of dry web adhesive  76  or similar adherence/connecting elements. Of course, the backing material  82  may also be any of the other types of materials such as vinyl, leather, velvet, paint, stain, and the like in other embodiments. 
     In aspects like the one shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4  where the backing material  82  is different than the exterior aspect  24 , the backing material  82  may define an alternative aesthetic decorative pattern for the simulated platform bed system  14 . In this regard, the connection between the slats  70  of the base  22  may be configured to enable pivoting of adjacent slats  70  in either direction, which means the system  14  could be reversed in orientation with the interior aspect  80  facing outwardly to provide the aesthetic appearance of the platform bed while the exterior aspect  24  faces inwardly towards the mattress support  16 . However, such reversible use is not necessary in all embodiments, and the backing material  82  could be omitted or replaced with the same material as the fabric layer  72  in further embodiments consistent with the scope of this invention. 
     The interior aspect  80  may also include additional optional features as described below to assist with alignment of the generally U-shape configuration along the first and second side edges  40 ,  42  and the foot end edge  44  of the bed  12 , and also to removably connect with the bed  12 . These features may render the system  14  non-reversible, however. 
     In the embodiment of the simulated platform bed system  14  shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the single, continuous piece defining the base  22  extends from a first terminal end  86  to an opposite second terminal end  88 . When wrapped in the generally U-shape configuration around the bed frame  32  as shown, the base  22  and therefore the system  14  extends from the first terminal end  86  along the first side edge  40 , then around the first bed corner  26  and along the foot end edge  44 , and then around the second bed corner  28  and along the second side edge  42  to the second terminal end  88 . In this position, the base  22  includes a first corner portion  90  which is formed from the plurality of slats  70  and is wrapped around the first bed corner  26  to transition smoothly from a generally rectangular-shaped elongated portion of the system  14  at the first side edge  40  to another generally rectangular-shaped elongated portion of the system  14  at the foot end edge  44 . Likewise, the base  22  also includes a second corner portion  92  which is formed from the plurality of slats  70  and is wrapped around the second bed corner  28  to transition smoothly from the generally rectangular-shaped elongated portion of the system  14  at the foot end edge  44  to another generally rectangular-shaped elongated portion of the system  14  at the second side edge  42 . These smooth transitions at the first and second corner portions  90 ,  92  improve the aesthetic appearance of the simulated platform bed system  14  while advantageously enabling the continuous or generally unitary construction of the base  22  of the system  14 . 
     As shown most specifically in  FIG. 3 , the system  14  when in the generally U-shape configuration therefore defines a length L p  along each of the first and second side edges  40 ,  42  of the bed  12 . This length L p  is effectively equal to the length L m  of the mattress  18  (and also the length L f  of the bed frame  32 ) in this embodiment. The system  14  in this configuration also defines a width W p  along the foot end edge  44  of the bed  12 . This width W p  is effectively equal to the width W m  of the mattress  18  (and also the width W f  of the bed frame  32 ) in this embodiment. To this end, the system  14  serves to cover at least a portion of the spacing between the lower surface  62  of the mattress  18  and the floor surface  20  along effectively the entirety of the first and second side edges  40 ,  42  as well as the foot end edge  44  of the bed  12 . As these are the only portions exposed to be visible when the head board  38  is positioned against a wall of a room, as is typical, the system  14  accurately provides the appearance of a platform bed supporting the mattress  18 . It will be understood that the specific dimensions of the system  14  in the final configuration may vary in other embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure. 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 3 , the base  22  further defines an upper terminal edge  96  and a lower terminal edge  98  for the simulated platform bed system  14 , each of which extends along the generally U-shape configuration as shown. In this regard, the upper terminal edge  96  defines a top end of the system  14  when placed around the bed  12 , and the lower terminal edge  98  defines a bottom end of the system  14  accordingly. The base  22  is of a consistent height (measured between the upper and lower terminal edges  96 ,  98 ) along the entire length between the first and second terminal ends  86 ,  88 , which therefore defines a height H p  of the system  14 . For example, if the entirety of the base  22  is defined by the plurality of slats  70 , all of the slats  70  define the same vertical height to produce this consistent size of the system  14 . In the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 1 through 4 , this height H p  of the system  14  is a vertical height equal to or greater than the spacing between the mattress  18  and the floor surface  20 , previously defined as the first height h. Consequently, this embodiment of the simulated platform bed system  14  is sized such that the lower terminal edge  98  is adjacent to and/or contacts the floor surface  20 , thereby covering an entirety of the spacing between the mattress  18  and the floor surface  20 . In such embodiments, the appearance of a platform bed is therefore achieved with the system  14  as shown most clearly in  FIG. 1 . It will be appreciated that the height H p  of the system  14  may be modified in other embodiments, such as one alternative described further below. 
     The simulated platform bed system  14  further includes a flap portion  100  which projects upwardly from the upper terminal edge  96  of the base  22 . The flap portion  100  is shown in a generally vertical position in  FIG. 5A  and in a generally horizontal orientation (typical in use) in  FIGS. 3, 4, and 5B . In this embodiment, the flap portion  100  is defined by one or both of the fabric layer  72  of the exterior aspect  24  and the backing material  82  of the interior aspect  80 . This construction is most evident in the edges of  FIGS. 5A and 5B , where cross-sections taken through the system  14  are revealed. By forming the flap portion  100  from a fabric layer or multiple fabric layers, the flap portion  100  is flexible and can be pivoted relative to the upper terminal edge  96  of the base  22  to tuck underneath the mattress  18 . More specifically, the flap portion  100  is configured to be tucked or inserted between the lower surface  62  of the mattress  18  and the mattress support  16  (in this case, the box spring  34 ) to retain the system  14  in position in the generally U-shape configuration relative to the bed  12 . 
     In embodiments where the flap portion  100  is configured to help secure the system  14  in position, the system  14  may further include coupling elements  102  such as micro fabric hooks (shown schematically in  FIGS. 5A and 5B ) similar to elastic bandage wrap hook closures which removably engage with at least one of the lower surface  62  of mattress  18  or the box spring  34 . The coupling elements  102 , when engaged with these other elements, positively lock or secure the flap portion  100  in the tucked position between the mattress  18  and the mattress support  16 , which then also positions the system  14  and the upper terminal edge  96  thereof adjacent to the bottom end of the mattress  18 . The coupling elements  102  may be defined by other types of known fasteners configured to engage with fabric materials typically located on mattresses and box springs. Moreover, the coupling elements  102  may be omitted in other embodiments where straps are provided, or when the tucking of the flap portion  100  into position is deemed sufficient to retain the system  14  in the desired position. 
     As shown in  FIG. 5A , the flap portion  100  may include slits  104  cut through the flap portion  100  adjacent the first and second corner portions  90 ,  92 . These slits  104  allow for the different parts of the flap portion  100  along each of the first and second side edges  40 ,  42  and the foot end edge  44  to separately and individually fold downwardly to tuck between the mattress  18  and the mattress support  16 . If such slits  104  are omitted, the flap portion  100  may bunch up slightly when tucked between the mattress  18  and the mattress support  16  along the first and second corners  26 ,  28  of the bed  12 . However, the flap portion  100  functions similarly in any embodiment to help retain the simulated platform bed system  14  in place relative to the bed  12 . 
       FIGS. 5A and 5B  also illustrate another feature of the simulated platform bed system  14  which may be used in some embodiments in accordance with the invention. More particularly, the interior aspect  80  of the system  14  in this embodiment further includes loops  106  of material configured to receive stabilizing rods  108  which are linear members extending along the length of the first and second side edges  40 ,  42  and the foot end edge  44 . The loops  106  in this embodiment are formed from the same fabric as the backing material  82 , but it will be appreciated that other types of materials may be used. Likewise, the loops  106  are shown elongated so as to shroud a length of the corresponding stabilizing rod  108  during use, but the loops  106  may be shortened in length and duplicated in multiple places along the interior aspect  80  of the system  14  in other embodiments. The loops  106  are sized to retain the stabilizing rods  108  in close relation to the base  22  along the lower terminal edge  98  (in the illustrated embodiment) and/or at other positions along the height of the system  14 . The stabilizing rods  108  therefore abut the plurality of slats  70  defining the base  22  along the first and second side edges  40 ,  42  and along the foot end edge  44  so as to prevent those elements from pivoting and bending sides of the system  14  inwardly or outwardly in an undesirable manner along these linear edges of the bed  12 . The loops  106  and stabilizing rods  108  do not extend along the corner portions  90 ,  92 , which are configured to bend around the first and second bed corners  26 ,  28 . Thus, in embodiments where the loops  106  and stabilizing rods  108  are used, the generally U-shape configuration of the system  14  is further assured during and after installation of the system  14  on the bed  12  with these additional elements. It will be appreciated that the positioning of the loops  106  along the interior aspect  80  may be modified and the loops  106  may be omitted in other embodiments consistent with the scope of this disclosure. 
       FIG. 6  shows the corner portion  90  of this embodiment of the simulated platform bed system  14 , but with most of the flap portion  100  and backing material  82  cut away to reveal the internal construction and elements of the base  22 . To this end, it can be readily seen in  FIG. 6  that the plurality of slats  70  define the base  22  along an entirety of the length of the base  22  between the first and second terminal ends  86 ,  88 . As described above, the slats  70  may be connected together by various means, including but not limited to tape and string, or dry web adhesive  76 , strips of which are shown along an interior surface  112  of the base  22 . The dry web adhesive  76  in such an embodiment also typically secures the backing material  82 , when present, in position along the interior aspect  80 . The elements fastening the slats  70  together, whether dry web adhesive  76  or otherwise, may be located on one or both of the exterior surface  78  and the interior surface  112 . The plurality of slats  70  collectively define a single, continuous piece for the base  22  and thereby establish rigidity of the base  22  and system  14  while allowing for some bending movement at the first and second corner portions  90 ,  92  as required. Thus, the slats  70  in this embodiment extend along each of the first and second side edges  40 ,  42  and the foot end edge  44  of the bed  12 . 
     Each of the slats  70  is vertically oriented as set forth above, such as by defining a vertical height which is much greater than a horizontal width or a thickness of the slats  70 . For example, each of the slats  70  defines a horizontal width W s  (measured along the direction of the side edges  40 ,  42  or the foot end edge  44 ) of 0.25 inches or 0.5 inches in this embodiment. These are standard sizes for elongated slats  70 , and they enable sufficient pivoting movement at the first and second corner portions  90 ,  92  to remain close to contact with the first and second bed corners  26 ,  28  when the system  14  is installed in the generally U-shape configuration as described above. In other words, the relatively small width of the slats  70  enables smooth bending around the first and second bed corners  26 ,  28 . However, it will be appreciated that the horizontal width of the slats  70  may be modified to be anywhere within a range of about 0.125 inches to about 2.00 inches in other embodiments consistent with the scope of this invention. By comparison, the vertical height of each of the slats  70  may extend 12 inches or more, depending on the desired height H p  of the system  14 . 
     The plurality of slats  70  is typically formed from wooden slats in the exemplary embodiment, but other materials for the slats  70  may also be used in the base  22 . To this end, the slats  70  may also be formed from any of the following: plastics, metals, engineered wood products including oriented strand board (OSB), composites, hardened foam, and combinations thereof. These materials may be provided in solid form or hollow form, depending on the material and the weight of the slats  70  desired. Regardless of materials chosen, the slats  70  are what provides rigidity to the base  22  and the system  14  along the desired locations, to thereby simulate the appearance of a platform bed. 
     In the embodiment of the simulated platform bed system  14  shown in  FIGS. 1 through 6 , the plurality of slats  70  defining the base  22  allows the system  14  to retain sufficient rigidity to remain in the generally U-shape configuration while also enabling the corner portions  90 ,  92  to wrap around junctions of the first and second side edges  40 ,  42  with the foot end edge  44 . As a result, the system  14  covers substantially an entire spacing between the mattress  18  of the bed  12  and the floor surface  20 , thereby providing the appearance of a platform bed supporting the mattress  18 . In this regard, the system  14  appears from an exterior of the bed  12  to be a single solid piece with rounded corners that supports the mattress  18 . However, the system  14  does not carry the weight of the mattress  18 , as that functionality is instead provided by the mattress support  16 , which in this embodiment is defined by the inexpensive and mobile metal bed frame  32  in combination with a box spring  34 . These elements of the mattress support  16  do not have highly desirable aesthetic appearances, but these elements are covered from view by the simulated platform bed system  14 . Moreover, the system  14  can be provided with various different types of decorative features  74  on the exterior aspect  24  thereof, such that the system  14  may be configured to provide various different types of desirable aesthetic appearances. Thus, both desirable aesthetic appearance and low cost and portability are simultaneously achieved with the simulated platform bed  10  of this disclosure. 
     Now turning to  FIG. 7 , a further embodiment of the simulated platform bed system  114  is shown. Many of the elements of this system  114  are substantially identical to those in the previously-described embodiment(s), and those elements are provided with the same reference numbers without further explanation where they remain unchanged. Just like  FIG. 6 , this view of the alternative embodiment shows a corner portion  90  of the system  114  with portions of the flap portion  100  and the backing material  82  cut away to reveal interior construction of the base  122 . As described below, the base  122  of the system  114  in this embodiment comprises a different arrangement of elements than the prior embodiment. 
     To this end, the plurality of slats  70  need to be provided at least at the first and second corner portions  90 ,  92  to enable the smooth bending of the system  114  at the bed corners  26 ,  28 . However, it is possible to replace the slats  70  with an alternative base element or elements along the portions of the system  114  which are intended to remain linear when placed along the first and second side edges  40 ,  42  and the foot end edge  44 . In  FIG. 7 , these alternative elements are shown as unitary rectangular panels  116 , which may be formed from any of the same rigid materials as described above for the slats  70  (and may be defined by solid material, hollow material, or frameworks as well understood in the art). The unitary panels  116  extend along a majority of each of the first and second side edges  40 ,  42  and the foot end edge  44  when the system  114  is positioned at the bed  12  in the generally U-shape configuration. As the unitary panels  116  are rigid, the loops  106  and stabilizing rods  108  of the previous embodiment may be omitted. The base  122  of this simulated platform bed system  114  functions in exactly the same manner as the prior embodiment, presenting the appearance of a single, continuous piece that extends around the bed  12  and that appears to support the weight of the bed (but actually does not). 
     The unitary panels  116  may also be defined in further alternative embodiments by other rigid constructions or assemblies such as a plurality of horizontally-oriented slats, for example. So long as the unitary panels  116  are generally rigid and sized to cover at least a portion of the spacing between the mattress  18  and the floor surface  20 , these panels  116  can be combined with the slats  70  to define the base  122  in accordance with the advantages and functionalities of this invention. The slats  70  of this embodiment extend along at least portions of the first side edge  40  and the foot end edge  44  on opposite sides of the first bed corner  26  when defining the first corner portion  90 , as shown in  FIG. 7 . It will be appreciated that the slats  70  at the second corner portion  92  also extend along at least portions of the second side edge  42  and the foot end edge  44  on opposite sides of the second bed corner  28 . More specifically, the slats  70  extend along at least 2.00 inches or more of the first side edge  40  and the foot end edge  44  at the first corner portion  90 , and the slats  70  extend along at least 2.00 inches or more of the second side edge  42  and the foot end edge  44  at the second corner portion  92 . Therefore, the plurality of slats  70  in this embodiment define at least 4.00 inches of total coverage, minimum, provided by the base  122 . The slats  70  and the unitary panels  116  may be combined in any configuration and at any location along the base  122 , so long as the first and second corner portions  90 ,  92  include the slats  70  to enable the smooth bending of the base  122  and the system  114  around bed corners  26 ,  28  to provide the platform bed appearance. 
     Now turning to  FIGS. 8 and 9 , a further embodiment of the simulated platform bed system  214  is shown. Many of the elements of this system  214  are substantially identical to those in the previously-described embodiment(s), and those elements are provided with the same reference numbers without further explanation where they remain unchanged. The system  214  of this embodiment again includes a base  222  (formed at least partially of slats  70 ), an exterior aspect  24  providing a decorative feature  74 , and a flap portion  100  that is configured to tuck between the mattress  18  (shown in phantom in  FIG. 8 ) and the mattress support  16 , specifically the box spring  34  (shown in phantom) on top of the metal bed frame  32 . To assure that the flap portion  100  and the remainder of the system  214  are retained in the desired position and the generally U-shape configuration, the system  214  of this embodiment further includes strap members  230  that connect to the portions of the flap portion  100  which extend along the first and second side edges  40 ,  42  of the bed  12 . The strap members  230  connect the flap portion  100  to itself at one or more locations along the length of the bed  12 , which prevents movement of the flap portion  100  away from the tucked position between the mattress  18  and the box spring  34 . Consequently, the system  214  is retained in the desired position and alignment in this embodiment without necessitating the use of small fabric hooks or similar coupling elements  102  as in previous embodiments. 
     The strap members  230  may be formed from an elastic material or some other similar material. It will be understood that only one strap member  230  may be provided instead of the multiple strap members  230  shown in  FIG. 8 , and the specific positioning of the strap members  230  may also be modified without departing from the scope of this invention. The ends  232 ,  234  of the strap members  230  may be permanently coupled (by stitching or otherwise) to the flap portion  100 , or alternatively, one or both ends  232 ,  234  of the strap members  230  may be removably connected to the flap portion  100 . 
     The simulated platform bed system  214  of this embodiment also differs from previous embodiments in that the height H p  of the system  214  as defined by the base  222  is shorter than the spacing between the mattress  18  and the floor surface  20 . To this end, the lower terminal edge  98  defined by the base  222  is spaced in this embodiment from the floor surface  20  after installation of the simulated platform bed system  214  on the bed  12 . The gap between the system  214  and the floor surface  20  of this embodiment is most readily visible in the cross-sectional view in  FIG. 9 . The simulated platform bed system  214  is still sized to cover a majority of the spacing between the mattress  18  and the floor surface  20 , and accordingly, the general improved aesthetic appearance is still provided by substantially hiding the elements of the mattress support  16 . The exterior aspect  24  of the system  214  is still present to deliver any of the various kinds of decorative features  74  described above. Indeed, if the gap is very small between the system  214  and the floor surface  20 , the appearance of a platform bed supporting the mattress  18  may still be provided (even though on closer inspection, the gap may reveal that the system  214  does not actually contact the floor surface  20  or support the weight of the mattress  18 ). Furthermore, additional panels or other decorative elements may be positioned adjacent the gap in still further alternative embodiments to collectively block visibility of the mattress support  16  with the system  214 . Nevertheless, the simulated platform bed system  214  continues to provide the same advantages and functionalities of the prior embodiments even without extending into contact with the floor surface  20 . 
     Another variation of the simulated platform bed system  214  of this embodiment is shown in  FIG. 9 . The system  214  again defines an interior aspect  280  facing inwardly towards the bed  12 , but in this embodiment the interior aspect  280  includes both the backing material  82  and fastening elements  284  for directly coupling the system  214  to the bed frame  32  at various locations along the system  214 . In this regard, the flanges  64  of the longitudinal rails  50  on the bed frame  32  (or some other portion of the bed frame  32 ) are connected to the interior aspect  280  by the fastening elements  284 , which in this illustrated embodiment include hook and loop fastener panels (e.g., such as VELCRO®) on each of the bed frame  32  and the interior aspect  280 . The coupling provided at the fastening elements  284  in combination with the tucking of the flap portion  100  underneath the mattress  18  is sufficient to retain the simulated platform bed system  214  in the generally U-shape configuration and in the desired position relative to the bed  12 . As will be understood, this arrangement means the bed frame  32  and mattress support  16  actually carry and support the weight of the system  214  in this embodiment as well as the weight of the mattress  18 , thereby allowing the system  214  to be used without contacting the floor surface  20 . 
     Although the fastening elements  284  of the system  214  in  FIGS. 8 and 9  are hook and loop fastener panels, it will be appreciated that alternative types of fastening elements are possible in other embodiments of the invention. One such example is shown in another alternative embodiment shown in  FIG. 10 , which shows a cross-section of a simulated platform bed system  314  similar to the view of the prior embodiment at  FIG. 9 . Once again, many of the elements of this system  314  are substantially identical to those in the previously-described embodiment(s), and those elements are provided with the same reference numbers without further explanation where they remain unchanged. The system  314  of this embodiment includes brackets  384  as the fastening elements located along the interior aspect  380 . The brackets  384  may be secured to the rails  50 ,  52  of the bed frame  32  using known threaded fasteners and the like. Such an embodiment would require more assembly effort than the use of hook and loop fastener panels, but the direct coupling of the system  314  to the bed frame  32  would be more resistant to accidental disconnection or misalignments in this embodiment. It will be understood that still other types of fastening elements could be used to directly couple a simulated platform bed system to a mattress support in other embodiments, including but not limited to snaps, tie elements, and clamping elements. Thus, the simulated platform bed system of the embodiments described above achieves the desirable aesthetic appearance of a platform bed without requiring weight support of the mattress  18  or an assembly of multiple panels or parts, regardless of whether the system is directly coupled to the mattress support or largely self-supported by contact with the floor surface  20 . 
     Now turning to  FIG. 11 , a further embodiment of the simulated platform bed system  414  is shown. Many of the elements of this system  414  are substantially identical to those in the previously-described embodiment(s), and those elements are provided with the same reference numbers without further explanation where they remain unchanged.  FIG. 11  shows a top perspective view of the system  414  similar to  FIG. 8 , but from an opposite corner of the bed  12 . To this end, the head end edge  36  and the second side edge  42  of the bed  12  are visible in the foreground of this Figure to reveal additional elements included in this embodiment. The system  414  of this embodiment continues to include the base  22  and exterior aspect  24  extending in a generally U-shape configuration along the first and second side edges  40 ,  42  and the foot end edge  44 , along with the flap portion  100  and the (optional) strap members  230  extending across from the flap portion  100  proximate the first side edge  40  to the flap portion  100  proximate the second side edge  42 . However, the system  414  of this embodiment also includes portions which wrap around and extend along the head end edge  36  of the bed  12 . 
     To this end, the system  414  includes a first lateral flap portion  450  defined by one or both of the fabric layer  72  of the exterior aspect  24  and the backing material  82  of the interior aspect  80 , with the first lateral flap portion  450  extending from the first terminal end  86  (shown schematically for reference in  FIG. 11 ) of the base  22  to thereby wrap around a bed corner defined between the head end edge  36  and the first side edge  40 . The first lateral flap portion  450  extends along a partial portion of the head end edge  36  as well. Similarly, the system  414  includes a second lateral flap portion  452  defined by one or both of the fabric layer  72  and the backing material  82 . The second lateral flap portion  452  extends from the second terminal end  88  (shown schematically for reference in  FIG. 11 ) of the base  22  to thereby wrap around a bed corner defined between the head end edge  36  and the second side edge  42 . The second lateral flap portion  452  also extends along a partial portion of the head end edge  36 , in a direction towards the first lateral flap portion  450 . The first and second lateral flap portions  450 ,  452  are connected to one another by one or more head end strap members  454  (two shown in  FIG. 11 ) connected to and extending between the first and second lateral flap portions  450 ,  452 . These head end strap members  454  may be formed from an elastic strap or the like, and they are positioned along the head end edge  36 , and specifically at the box spring  34 , to help retain the system  414  in position relative to the mattress support  16 . In this regard, the head end strap members  454  function in a similar manner as the strap members  230  connecting parts of the flap portion  100  together as described above, although it will be understood that such other strap members  230  may be omitted when the head end strap members  454  are provided. 
     In addition to assisting with securing the system  414  in the generally U-shape configuration (defined as such in view of the base  22  being entirely or almost entirely in the U-shape when positioned about the bed  12 ), the first and second lateral flap portions  450 ,  452  also help cover the mattress support  16  from view at the corners located adjacent the head end edge  36  and the head board  38  (when provided). Even when the head end edge  36  of the bed  12  is located adjacent a wall of a room, as is typical, these corners may still be visible but for the provision of the first and second lateral flap portions  450 ,  452 . Thus, these elements enhance the simulated appearance of the platform bed. The head end strap members  454  are located sufficiently inward from the corners so as to not be visible when the bed  12  is placed with the head end edge  36  against a wall of a room. Consequently, the head end strap members  454  do not negatively impact the aesthetic appearance of the bed  12  using the system  414 . 
     It will be understood that the additional features of the system  414  shown in  FIG. 11  can be combined with the other embodiments described above to enhance the appearance or reliable positioning of the elements described herein. Moreover, in other embodiments consistent with the invention, the slats  70  defining the base  22  may also be configured to extend within the first and second lateral flap portions  450 ,  452  without departing from the scope of this disclosure. As noted above, the substantial majority of the base  22  still defines a generally U-shape configuration in such alternative embodiments. The specific configuration and size of the elements of the system  414  shown at the head end edge  36  in  FIG. 11  can be modified as needed to suit the needs of the end customer. 
     While the present invention has been illustrated by a description of various embodiments and while these embodiments have been described in considerable detail, it is not the intention of the applicant to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. For example, the features described in connection with one embodiment of the system may be equally applied with features from another embodiment of the system. Thus, the invention in its broader aspects is therefore not limited to the specific details, representative apparatus and method and illustrative example shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departing from the spirit or scope of applicant&#39;s general inventive concept.