Patent Publication Number: US-2022225785-A1

Title: Portable Confinement Device

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/839,972, entitled “Portable Confinement Device” and filed on Apr. 29, 2019, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     Field of the Invention 
     The invention relates to a portable confinement device for confining a person upon a mattress. The device is useful for taking care of children and adults who need to be kept from wandering away from their sleeping or resting areas. 
     Description of Related Art 
     The need for the confinement of a person may result from some form of mental or physical ailment that makes it necessary for a caregiver to be assured of the person&#39;s whereabouts at sleep or resting times. The confinement device may also provide a person extra security due to their mental or physical ailment allowing that person to feel the comfort and security necessary in order to properly rest. Numerous schemes and devices have been designed in order to restrict an individual&#39;s movement to some degree during sleep. However, these devices often fail to provide a caregiver the ability to determine when it is safe for the confined individual to exit the device. 
     Numerous devices that serve to confine an individual are burdensome, bulky, and expensive, often being designed for hospital or clinical use. They take a lot of effort to assemble and are difficult to transport from place to place when necessary. As such, this field has, up until now, an unmet need for a cheap, safe, portable, and easy-to-assemble device for confining an individual during sleep or play. There is a further unmet need for an adjustable device that is capable of opening further to allow an individual to enjoy the confines of the device without being fully confined therein. 
     SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     The present disclosure satisfies the foregoing needs by providing a novel portable confinement device which is useful for confining a child or an adult while they are sleeping, resting, relaxing, or playing, without the use of straps or other body attachments. Moreover, while the durable construction of the present invention permits it to be used every day in the confined person&#39;s home, its portability allows it to be easily transported and used on trips away from the home. This feature provides the confined person with the security and comfort of familiar surroundings even when spending nights away from home. 
     The present disclosure provides embodiments of a portable confinement device for confining a person upon a mattress. The confinement device may include a frame which may include a base member having a first side and a second side parallel to the first side and set apart from the first side at a distance, and at least two upright members, each upright member having a first support portion, a second support portion, and a bridge portion, the bridge portion having a first leg, a second leg parallel to the first leg, and a cross member connecting the first and second legs, wherein the first leg and the second leg are respectively connected to the first support portion and the second support portion by a lockable hinge, and wherein when the hinges are locked, the bridge portion is configured to be in an upright position, and when the hinges are unlocked, the bridge portion is rotatable into a downward, lowered position: and a flexible enclosure which may have a floor, four sides, and a roof defining an interior space, wherein the flexible enclosure is configured to be supported by the frame and adapted to receive the mattress therein, and wherein a first fastenable opening extends across at least one of the four sides and the roof in order to permit a person to enter and exit the interior space when the bridge portion is in either the upright or the downward, lowered positions. 
     In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the base member may also have a third side and a fourth side interconnecting the first side and the second side. The third side and the fourth side of the base member interconnect the first side and the second side by way of a swaged connection. The cross members of the at least two upright members may connect to the first leg and the second leg of the at least two upright members by way of a swaged connection. At least four stabilizing members may be removably attached to the base member and one of the first support portions or the second support portions. The frame may further include a plurality of eye-and-pin connectors in order to connect the at least two upright members to the base member. 
     In another embodiment of the present disclosure, when the bridge portion is in the upright position, the at least two upright members and the mattress may form a substantially hexagonal shape. When the bridge portion is in the upright position, the at least two upright members and the mattress may form a substantially rectangular shape. The lockable hinges may be button hinges. The flexible enclosure may include at least one access port. The at least one access port may be configured to connect to an assistance device for use by a person confined in the portable confinement device. The flexible enclosure may further include a plurality of pockets for receiving at least a portion of the bridge portions of the at least two upright members therein. The enclosure may have a fastenable second opening through which the mattress may be placed into or removed from the enclosure interior space. 
     In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the flexible enclosure may further include a pocket defined by a top side of the floor of the flexible enclosure and a mattress covering. The mattress covering may create a floor of the interior space and may be configured to prevent the person confined by the interior space from accessing the mattress. The flexible enclosure may further include a second fastenable opening on at least one of the four sides. The second fastenable opening may be configured to permit a person to enter and exit the interior space when the bridge portion is in the upright position. When the lockable hinges are locked, the bridges may be set apart by a first distance, and when the lockable hinges are unlocked, the bridges may be set apart by a second distance, greater than the first distance. 
     In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a portable confinement device for confining a person upon a mattress may include a mattress; a frame which may include a base section interconnected to a first upright portion and a second upright portion, wherein the first and second upright portions further comprise a first leg, a second leg, and a bridge interconnected to the first and second legs by two lockable hinges, the bridges being set apart by a distance; and a flexible enclosure which may include a floor, four sides, and a roof defining an interior space, wherein the flexible enclosure is configured to be supported by the frame and adapted to receive the mattress, and wherein at least one of the four sides and the roof has a fastenable first opening to permit a person to enter and exit the interior space, and wherein when the hinges are locked, the bridges are set apart by a first distance, and when the hinges are unlocked, the bridges are set apart by a second distance, greater than the first distance. 
     In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the two lockable hinges may be button hinges. The flexible enclosure may further include at least one access port. The at least one access port may be configured to connect to an assistance device for use by a person confined in the portable confinement device. When the hinges are unlocked, the fastenable first opening may be configured to expose the entirety of the mattress. 
     In another embodiment of the present disclosure a method of operating a portable confinement device may include the steps of providing a frame, the frame including a base section interconnected to a first upright portion and the second upright portion, the first and second upright portions may include a first leg, a second leg, and a bridge extending therebetween, the bridge being connected to the first and second legs by two lockable hinges; attaching a flexible enclosure to at least the bridges of the first and second upright portions, the flexible enclosure may include a floor, four sides, and a roof defining an interior space configured to receive a mattress therein; unfastening a fastenable opening of the flexible enclosure to expose the interior space, the fastenable opening may extend across at least one of the four sides and the roof of the flexible enclosure; and unlocking the lockable hinges so that the bridge portions may rotate from an upright position into a downward, lowered position. The lockable hinges may be button hinges. The step of unlocking the lockable hinges may further include the step of removing a locking pin from each of the hinges. 
     In some embodiments or aspects, the present disclosure may be characterized by one or more of the following numbered clauses: 
     Clause 1. A portable confinement device for confining a person upon a mattress, the device comprising: a frame comprising: a base member having a first side and a second side parallel to the first side and set apart from the first side at a distance; and at least two upright members, each upright member having a first support portion, a second support portion, and a bridge portion, the bridge portion having a first leg, a second leg parallel to the first leg, and a cross member connecting the first and second legs, wherein the first leg and the second leg are respectively connected to the first support portion and the second support portion by lockable hinges, and wherein, when the hinges are locked, the bridge portion is configured to be in an upright position, and when the hinges are unlocked, the bridge portion is rotatable into a downward, lowered position; and a flexible enclosure having a floor, four sides, and a roof defining an interior space, wherein the flexible enclosure is configured to be supported by the frame and adapted to receive a mattress, and wherein at least one of the four sides and the roof has a fastenable first opening to permit a person to enter and exit the interior space when the bridge portion is in either the upright or downward position. 
     Clause 2. The portable confinement device of clause 1, wherein the base member further comprises a third side and a fourth side interconnecting the first side and the second side. 
     Clause 3. The portable confinement device of clause 1 or 2, wherein the third side and the fourth side of the base member interconnect the first side and the second side by way of a swaged connection. 
     Clause 4. The portable confinement device of any of clauses 1-3, wherein the cross members of the at least two upright members connect to the first leg and the second leg of the at least two upright members by way of a swaged connection. 
     Clause 5. The portable confinement device of any of clauses 1-4, further comprising at least four stabilizing members removably attached to the base member and one of the first support portions or the second support portions. 
     Clause 6. The portable confinement device of any of clauses 1-5, wherein the frame further comprises a plurality of eye-and-pin connectors in order to connect the at least two upright members to the base member. 
     Clause 7. The portable confinement device of any of clauses 1-6, wherein, when the bridge portion is in the upright position, the at least two upright members and the mattress form a substantially hexagonal shape. 
     Clause 8. The portable confinement device of any of clauses 1-7, wherein, when the bridge portion is in the upright position, the at least two upright members and the mattress form a substantially rectangular shape. 
     Clause 9. The portable confinement device of any of clauses 1-8, wherein the lockable hinges are button hinges. 
     Clause 10. The portable confinement device of any of clauses 1-9, wherein the flexible enclosure further comprises at least one access port. 
     Clause 11. The portable confinement device of any of clauses 1-10, wherein the at least one access port is configured to connect to an assistance device for use by a person confined in the portable confinement device. 
     Clause 12. The portable confinement device of any of clauses 1-11, wherein the flexible enclosure further comprises a plurality of pockets for receiving at least a portion of the bridge portions of the at least two upright members therein. 
     Clause 13. The portable confinement device of any of clauses 1-12, wherein the enclosure has a fastenable second opening through which the mattress may be placed into or removed from the enclosure interior space 
     Clause 14. The portable confinement device of any of clauses 1-13, wherein the flexible enclosure further comprises a pocket defined by a top side of the floor of the flexible enclosure and a mattress covering, wherein the mattress covering creates a floor of the interior space and is configured to prevent the person confined by the interior space from accessing the mattress. 
     Clause 15. The portable confinement device of any of clauses 1-14, wherein the flexible enclosure further comprises a second fastenable opening on at least one of the four sides, wherein the second fastenable opening is configured to permit a person to enter and exit the interior space when the bridge portion is in the upright position. 
     Clause 16. The portable confinement device of any of clauses 1-15, wherein, when the lockable hinges are locked, the bridges are set apart by a first distance, and when the lockable hinges are unlocked, the bridges are set apart by a second distance, greater than the first distance. 
     Clause 17. A portable confinement device for confining a person upon a mattress, the portable confinement device comprising: a mattress; a frame comprising a base section interconnected to a first upright portion and a second upright portion, wherein the first and second upright portions further comprise a first leg, a second leg, and a bridge interconnected to the first and second legs by two lockable hinges, the bridges being set apart by a distance; and a flexible enclosure having a floor, four sides, and a roof defining an interior space, wherein the flexible enclosure is configured to be supported by the frame and adapted to receive the mattress, and wherein at least one of the four sides and the roof has a fastenable first opening to permit a person to enter and exit the interior space, wherein, when the hinges are locked, the bridges are set apart by a first distance, and when the hinges are unlocked, the bridges are set apart by a second distance, greater than the first distance. 
     Clause 18. The portable confinement device of clause 16, wherein the two lockable hinges are button hinges. 
     Clause 19. The portable confinement device of clause 16 or 17, wherein the flexible enclosure further comprises at least one access port. 
     Clause 20. The portable confinement device of any of clauses 16-18, wherein the at least one access port is configured to connect to an assistance device for use by the person confined in the portable confinement device. 
     Clause 21. The portable confinement device of any of clauses 16-19, wherein, when the hinges are unlocked, the fastenable first opening is configured to expose the entirety of the mattress. 
     Clause 22. A method of operating a portable confinement device, the method comprising the steps of: providing a frame, the frame comprising a base section interconnected to a first upright portion and the second upright portion, the first and second upright portions comprising a first leg, a second leg, and a bridge extending therebetween, the bridge being connected to the first and second legs by two lockable hinges; attaching a flexible enclosure to at least the bridges of the first and second upright portions, the flexible enclosure comprising a floor, four sides, and a roof defining an interior space configured to receive a mattress therein; unfastening a fastenable opening of the flexible enclosure to expose the interior space, the fastenable opening extending across at least one of the four sides and the roof of the flexible enclosure; and unlocking the lockable hinges so that the bridge portions rotate from an upright position into a downward, lowered position. 
     Clause 23. The method of operating a portable confinement device of clause 22, wherein the lockable hinges are button hinges. 
     Clause 24. The method of operating a portable confinement device of either of clause 22 or 23, wherein unlocking the lockable hinges further comprises the step of removing a locking pin from each of the hinges. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a portable confinement device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, supported by a box spring, showing a confined person relaxing within the device. 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of a portable confinement device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, supported by a box spring. 
         FIG. 3  is an end view of a portable confinement device according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of the frame of a portable confinement device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective side view of one of the points of attachment of the first bridge section to a base side and of the second bridge section to the first bridge section according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 6  is a front view of the point of attachment of a support to a base side of the frame according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective top view of the embodiment of the present disclosure shown in  FIG. 3  and illustrates a window in the roof of the enclosure. 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective partial cutaway side view of a portable confinement device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure wherein the enclosure has a mattress pocket. 
         FIG. 9  is a detail of a front view of the embodiment of the present disclosure shown in  FIG. 2  and illustrates the end of a zipper fastener arranged to allow opening only from outside of the enclosure. 
         FIG. 10  is a detail of a perspective side view of the embodiment of the present disclosure shown in  FIG. 2  and illustrates a means of locking the mattress opening so that it may be opened only from outside of the enclosure. 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of an open carrying bag containing a frame, enclosure, inflatable mattress, and optional air pump according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a disassembled portable confinement device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a partially assembled frame of a portable confinement device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 14  is a side view of a portable confinement device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of a portable confinement device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of a frame according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 17  is a side view of the frame of  FIG. 16  movable between a locked and an unlocked position. 
         FIG. 18A  is a side view of the frame of  FIG. 16  in a locked position. 
         FIG. 18B  is a side view of the frame of  FIG. 16  in an unlocked position. 
         FIG. 19  is a side view of a frame of a portable confinement device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure 
         FIG. 20  is a side view of a frame of a portable confinement device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 21A  is a side view of a lockable hinge according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 21B  is a back view of the lockable hinge of  FIG. 21A . 
         FIG. 21C  is a side view of the lockable hinge of  FIG. 21A  in an unlocked position. 
         FIG. 22A  is a side view of a lockable hinge according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 22B  is a back view of the lockable hinge of  FIG. 22A . 
         FIG. 22C  is a side view of the lockable hinge of  FIG. 22A  in the unlocked position. 
         FIG. 23A  is a perspective view of an eye-and-key attachment mechanism according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 23B  is a front view of the eye-and-key attachment mechanism of  FIG. 23A . 
         FIG. 24  is an exploded view of the frame of  FIG. 16 . 
         FIG. 25  is a side view of two mating parts of the frame of  FIG. 16 . 
         FIG. 26  is a perspective view of a portable confinement device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 27  is a front view of the portable confinement device of  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 28  is a top view of the portable confinement device of  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 29  is a side view of the portable confinement device of  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 30  is a front view of the portable confinement device of  FIG. 15  in an open position. 
         FIG. 31  is a perspective view of the portable confinement device of  FIG. 15  in an open position. 
         FIG. 32  is a top view of the portable confinement device of  FIG. 15  in an open position. 
         FIG. 33  is a perspective view of the portable confinement device of  FIG. 15  in the unhinged position. 
         FIG. 34  is a front view of the portable confinement device of  FIG. 15  in the unhinged position. 
         FIG. 35  is a top view of the portable confinement device of  FIG. 15  in the unhinged position. 
         FIG. 36A  is a side view of a portable confinement device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 36B  is another side view of the portable confinement device of  FIG. 36A . 
         FIG. 37A  is a side view of a portable confinement device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 37B  is a side view of the portable confinement device of  FIG. 37A . 
         FIG. 38  is a partial top view of the portable confinement device of  FIG. 15  according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 39  is a partial perspective view of an opening of the portable confinement device of  FIG. 15  according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 40  is a perspective view of a portable confinement device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 41A  is side view of a suitcase. 
         FIG. 41B  is a side view of the suitcase of  FIG. 39A . 
         FIG. 42  is a perspective view of the suitcase of  FIG. 39A  in an open position with a portable confinement device disposed therein according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     As used herein, the singular forms of “a”, “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. 
     Spatial or directional terms, such as “left”, “right”, “inner”, “outer”, “above”, “below”, and the like, relate to the disclosure as shown in the drawing figures and are not to be considered as limiting, as the disclosure can assume various alternative orientations. 
     All numbers and ranges used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about”. However, this should not be considered as limiting to any analysis of the values under the doctrine of equivalents. 
     Unless otherwise indicated, all ranges or ratios disclosed herein are to be understood to encompass the beginning and ending values and any and all subranges or subratios subsumed therein. For example, a stated range or ratio of “1 to 10” should be considered to include any and all subranges or subratios between (and inclusive of) the minimum value of 1 and the maximum value of 10; that is, all subranges or subratios beginning with a minimum value of 1 or more and ending with a maximum value of 10 or less. The ranges and/or ratios disclosed herein represent the average values over the specified range and/or ratio. 
     The terms “first”, “second”, and the like are not intended to refer to any particular order or chronology, but refer to different conditions, properties, or elements. 
     The term “at least” is synonymous with “greater than or equal to”. 
     The term “not greater than” is synonymous with “less than or equal to”. 
     As used herein, “at least one of” is synonymous with “one or more of”. For example, the phrase “at least one of A, B, and C” means any one of A, B, or C. or any combination of any two or more of A, B, or C. For example, “at least one of A, B, and C” includes one or more of A alone; or one or more B alone; or one or more of C alone; or one or more of A and one or more of B; or one or more of A and one or more of C; or one or more of B and one or more of C; or one or more of all of A, B, and C. 
     The term “includes” is synonymous with “comprises”. 
     As used herein, the terms “parallel” or “substantially parallel” mean a relative angle as between two objects (if extended to theoretical intersection), such as elongated objects and including reference lines, that is from 0° to 5°, or from 0° to 3°, or from 0° to 2°, or from 0° to 1°, or from 0° to 0.5°, or from 0° to 0.25°, or from 0° to 0.1°, inclusive of the recited values. 
     As used herein, the terms “perpendicular” or “substantially perpendicular” mean a relative angle as between two objects at their real or theoretical intersection is from 85° to 90°, or from 87° to 90°, or from 88° to 90°, or from 89° to 90°, or from 89.5° to 90°, or from 89.75° to 90°, or from 89.9° to 90°, inclusive of the recited values. 
     In this section, some preferred embodiments of the present invention are described in detail sufficient for one skilled in the art to practice the present invention. It is to be understood, however, that the fact that a limited number of preferred embodiments are described herein does not in any way limit the scope of the present invention as set forth in the appended claims. 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , there is shown a person  2  relaxing upon a mattress  4  within the interior space  6  of a portable confinement device  8 A according to an embodiment of the present invention. The confinement device  8  is sitting upon a skirted box spring support  10 A. The confinement device  8 A has a frame  12  and a flexible enclosure  14 . The frame  12  has a base  16  and an upright portion  18 . The top of the enclosure  14  is suspended from the upright portion  18 , while the bottom of the enclosure  8 A rests upon the base  16  to stabilize the confinement device SA from tipping over. The sides  20  and the roof  22  of the enclosure  14  have mesh windows  24  to provide ventilation and light to the interior space  6 . There is a fastenable opening  26  in one of the sides  20  to allow the person  2  to enter and leave the interior space  6 . There is also a second fastenable opening  28  for inserting the mattress  4  into the interior space  6 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , there is shown another portable confinement device  8 B according to another embodiment of the present invention sitting upon a skirted box spring support  10 B. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 3 , there is shown yet another portable confinement device  8 C according to another embodiment of the present invention. 
     While each of the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 1-3  is of similar general construction, the fastenable openings for entering and leaving the interior of the confinement devices  8 A and  8 B are, respectively, a downward-opening door panel  26  and an upward-opening door panel  30 , while that of confinement device  8 C is made up of two flaps  32   a  and  32   b  which fasten together along zipper  34  and fasten along their bottoms to the side  20 C by way of zippers  36   a  and  36   b.    
     An embodiment of the frame  12  of the present invention is shown by itself in  FIG. 4 . The base  16  of the frame  12  has two sides  38   a ,  38   b  which are parallel to one another and set apart at a preselected distance. In this embodiment, the base  16  also includes two additional sides,  40   a ,  40   b , which interconnect the two sides  38   a ,  38   b . Some embodiments of the present invention include additional stabilizing elements, e.g., plates or corner cross braces, in the plane of the base to provide additional structural stability to the base or for better overall stability of the confinement device. The upright portion  18  includes two bridge sections, first bridge section  42   a  and second bridge section  42   b , and four supports  44 . The first bridge section  42   a  has a center section  46   a  from which depend two legs  48   a  and  50   a . Likewise, the second bridge section  42   b  has a center section  46   b  from which depend two legs  48   b  and  50   b.    
     The frame components described in the previous paragraph may be solid or hollow rods or bars of any cross-sectional shape. Preferably, they are tubes of circular cross-sectional shape. They may be made of plastic, metal, composite, or any other material that provides the requisite structural properties. Preferably, they are constructed to provide a combination of low weight and good structural strength to the frame  12 . In some preferred embodiments, these frame components are steel or aluminum tubes. 
     The upright portion  18  is attached to the base  16  in the following manner. Referring still to  FIG. 4 , it can be seen that each of the terminal ends of the legs  48   a ,  50   a  of the first bridge section  42   a  attaches to one or the other of base sides  38   a ,  38   b . It can also be seen that each of the terminal ends of the legs  48   b ,  50   b  of the second bridge section  42   b  attach to one or the other of the legs  48   a ,  50   a  of the first bridge section  42   a  so as to form a vee. It is preferred that the location of this attachment be selected so that the attachment point is the apex of an inverted isosceles triangle which has the intersecting leas, e.g., legs  48   a  and  48   b , as its sides of equal length and an imaginary line connecting the distal ends of those leas as its base.  FIG. 4  also shows that one end of each of the supports  44  attaches to a leg of one of the first and second bridge sections  42   a ,  42   b  and the other end of each of the supports attaches to one or the other of base sides  38   a ,  38   b . Preferably, one or more of the attachments described in this paragraph is non-permanent. However, it is also within the contemplation of the present invention that any or all of the attachments described in this paragraph be permanently made. 
     Any means of attachment known to persons skilled in the art may be used to make the attachments described in the previous paragraph. Preferred means of attachment are illustrated in  FIGS. 5 and 6 . Referring now to  FIG. 5 , there is shown the attachment of the terminal end of leg  48   a  to base side  38   a  by means of an eye-and-pin connector system, e.g. connector system  52   a . The connector system  52   a  includes an eye end  54   a  which is pinned to a receiving jaw  56   a  by a spring-loaded toggle pin  58   a . The eye end  54   a  is riveted to the terminal end of leg  48   a , and the receiving jaw  56   a  is riveted to the base side  38   a . The toggle pin  58   a  is preferably tethered by way of a connecting ring  60   a  and a small ligature  61   a  to the base side  38   a  to prevent loss of the toggle pin  58   a  when it is not in use.  FIG. 6  shows the use of a similar eye-and-pin connector system  52   b  having an eye end  54   b  pinned to receiving jaw  56   b  by a spring-loaded toggle pin  58   b . The toggle pin  58   b  is preferably tethered by way of connecting ring  60   b  and a small ligature  61   b  to the base side  38   a . The connector system  52   b  differs from the connector system  52   a  mainly in materials construction, as some portions of the connector system  52   b  are plastic while all of the portions of connector system  52   a  are steel. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 1 , at some point during the assembly of the portable enclosure device  8 A, the enclosure  14  is made to be supported by the frame  12 . Although any means known to persons skilled in the art of arranging such support is within the contemplation of the present invention, it is preferred that the support be provided by attaching the enclosure  14  to the frame  12 . It is even more preferred that the enclosure  14  be removably attached to the frame  12 . Preferably, only the top of the enclosure  14  is attached to the frame  12 , but in some embodiments of the present invention, the sides  14  and/or the bottom of the enclosure  14  are also be attached to the frame  12 . Although any means of attachment known to a person skilled in the art may be used to attach the enclosure  14  to the frame  12 , it is preferred to make the attachment by providing the enclosure  14  with a plurality of pockets  62 A which are adapted to encircle portions of the frame  12 . The pockets  62 A shown in this embodiment are all of about the same length and comprise a flap  64  that has one end sewn to the roof  22  or a side  20  of the enclosure  14  and a small strap  66  that is located the width of the pocket away from the sewn end of the flap  64 . The ends of the strap  66  are sewn to the roof  22  or a side  20  of the enclosure  14  so that the free end of the flap  64  may be passed under and around the strap  66  after it has been passed over a portion of the frame  12 . The flap  64  has a hook section and a corresponding loop section attached to one of its sides so that they can fasten together to secure a portion of the frame  12  in the pocket  62 A formed by the flap  64  passing under and around the strap  66 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , there is shown another arrangement for attaching the enclosure  14  to the frame  12 . In this embodiment, only two pockets  62 B are used. Each of the pockets  62 B encircles the entire center section of one or the other of the first and second bridge sections  68   a ,  68   b  of the frame  70 . Each of the pockets  62 B is formed by a flap, e.g., flap  72 , that has one end sewn to the roof  74  and sides  76  of the enclosure  78 . A zipper  80  is used to fasten the free end of the flap  72  to the roof  74  and the sides  76  to enclose the center section of one of the bridge sections, e.g., the first bridge section  68 , within the pocket  62 B. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 7 , there is shown yet another arrangement for attaching the enclosure to the frame.  FIG. 7  shows the top of the embodiment of the present invention that is shown in  FIG. 3 . In this embodiment, four short pockets  62 Ca and two long pockets  62 Cb are used. Each of the pockets  62 Ca,  62 Cb is formed by a flap, e.g., flap  82 , that has one end sewn to the roof  84  or one of the sides  86  of the enclosure  88 . A hook-and-loop fastener is used to fasten the free end of the flap  82  to the roof  84  or to one of the sides  86  of the enclosure  88  to enclose a portion of the frame within the pocket, e.g., pocket  62 Ca. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 1 , the flexible enclosure  14  is constructed of strong, durable materials so that it is effective in confining a person and can be used daily for weeks, months, or even years. Any suitable materials known to persons skilled in the art may be used for making the enclosure  14 . The materials are preferably fire retardant. Particularly preferred materials are a black vinyl encapsulated polyester mesh with a 30 percent openness factor for the mesh windows  24  and canvas for the non-mesh portions  25 . 
     Likewise, the fasteners for the enclosure  14  are to be strong, durable, and easy to use. Zippers and hook-and-loop fasteners are particularly preferred, but any fasteners known to persons skilled in the art may be used, including ligatures. Some types of fasteners are appropriate for some uses but not others, depending on the accessibility of the fastener to a person inside the enclosure. For example, zippers, hook-and-loop fasteners, sewn loops or pockets, buttons, snaps, and ligatures may all be used for attaching the enclosure  14  to the frame  12 , whereas of this group of fasteners, only the zippers, hook-and-loop fasteners, and ligatures are preferred for use with the opening for a person&#39;s entry and exit  26  and the opening for mattress insertion  28 . Particularly preferred zippers have teeth made of acetyl resin, e.g., Delrin®, and tapes made of polyester. One such preferred zipper is the Vision® VFUVIK107DX #10 chain zipper available from the YKK Corporation of Tokyo, Japan. 
     The present invention contemplates the use of the inventive portable enclosure device with a mattress upon which the confined person may sleep, rest, relax, or play. It is contemplated that any type of mattress known to persons skilled in the art may be used with the present invention. Some of the embodiments of the present invention include a mattress, while other embodiments do not, and the mattress may be separately supplied. All of the embodiments of the present invention are adapted to receive a mattress. Referring again to  FIG. 1 , the mattress  4  may be received into the interior space  6  of the enclosure  14  either by way of the opening  26  that is otherwise used for entry and exit of a person or by way of an opening  28  that is specially provided for inserting or withdrawing the mattress  4 . Referring now to  FIG. 8 , the mattress  4  may also be received into a mattress pocket  90  (portion of the enclosure  14  that is below seam  91 ) that is defined by the underside of the floor  92  (attached to the sides  93  at seam  91 ), the lower portions of the sides  94 , and the bottom  96  of the enclosure  98 . The mattress pocket  90  prevents a confined person from burrowing under the mattress  4  and possibly getting trapped there. 
     An important feature of the present invention is that the fastenings for any opening through which a person may exit the enclosure are unfastenable only from outside the enclosure. Any means or combination of means known to those skilled in the art may be used to provide this feature. Two examples are shown in  FIGS. 9 and 10  for preventing a zipper fastener from being opened from inside the enclosure. Referring to  FIG. 9 , where a single-slide zipper  100  is used, a fabric strip  101  is sewn in place between the ends of the zipper tapes  102   a ,  102   b  and across the zipper stop (hidden by the fabric strip) to prevent the end of the zipper  100  from pulling apart, and a backing  104  is provided for more than a finger&#39;s length of the zipper  100  from the stop so that a person inside the enclosure cannot reach the zipper slide  106  when it is parked against the stop.  FIG. 10  shows a zipper  108  having two slides  110   a ,  110   b . Here, a seam  112  is sewn between the ends of the zipper tapes  114   a ,  114   b  and across the zipper stop to prevent the end of the zipper  108  from pulling apart, and a locking ring  116  is used to lock together the two zipper slides  110   a ,  110   b.    
     Some embodiments of the present invention include a carrying bag to transport and store the portable confinement device. Referring now to  FIG. 11 , there is shown a carrying bag  118  opened to show its contents. The contents consist of the various parts of a disassembled confinement device, i.e., components of the frame  120 , a flexible enclosure  122 , and an inflatable mattress  124 , along with an air pump  126  for inflating the mattress  124 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 12 and 13 , there is shown a preferred embodiment of the present invention having features to enhance portability and ease of assembly. Referring now to  FIG. 12 , there is shown the folded-up enclosure  128  and the frame components  130  of a disassembled portable confinement device. The frame components  130  include two base sections  132   a ,  132   b  and two upright sections  134   a ,  134   b . Each of the frame components  130  comprises a hollow steel tube. Each of the two base sections  132   a ,  132   b  comprises a midsection, e.g., midsection  136 , and two legs  138   a ,  138   b . The midsection  136  corresponds to one or the other of the base sides  38   a ,  38   b  shown in  FIG. 4 . The ends of the of the two base sections  132   a ,  132   b  fit and lock together in cylindrical butt-lap joints having push-button locks. Jaws of eye-and-pin connector systems, e.g., jaw  140 , are fixed onto each of the base sections  132   a ,  132   b  for receiving corresponding eye ends of the upright sections  134   a ,  134   b , e.g., eye end  142 . Each of the upright sections  134   a ,  134   b  gangs together two supports and two half sections of a bridge section, which are divided at about the midpoints of their center sections. The corresponding sides of the bridge sections fit and lock together in cylindrical butt-lap joints having push-button locks. 
       FIG. 13  shows the frame  130  in a partially assembled state. The two base sections  132   a ,  132   b  are joined together, as are the two upright sections  134   a ,  134   b . The ends of the first bridge section  136  are attached to one or the other of the base sides  138   a ,  138   b . The upright section  134   a  in the foreground shows the manner in which its various components are ganged together using pivotable, fixed-pin, eye-and-pin joints  146   a ,  146   b ,  146   c . Snap-lock brackets  148   a ,  148   b  are used to keep adjacent tubular sections together during handling and storage. 
     The portable confinement devices of the present invention may be sized to fit any size of mattress. The height of headroom provided above the mattress top is preferably approximately the width of the mattress to help guard against the confined person&#39;s movements tipping over the device, but may vary from this to provide sufficient room for a person to comfortably move about. It is also preferred that the interior space be large enough to comfortably accommodate the confined person  150  and the person&#39;s caregiver  152 , as illustrated in  FIG. 14 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 15 , a portable confinement device  190  is shown according to another aspect of the present disclosure. The confinement device  190  has a flexible enclosure  260  supported by a frame  200 . The top of the enclosure  266  is generally suspended from upright portions  212   a ,  212   b  of the frame  200 , while the bottom of the enclosure  262  rests upon a base member  202  of the frame  200  in order to stabilize the confinement device  190 , to prevent it from tipping over, and to allow the confinement device  190  to take the various shapes shown in  FIGS. 15 and 26-38 . The precise structure of the support frame  200  and how the confinement device is supported thereon will be discussed in more detail below. The enclosure  260  has four sides  264   a ,  264   b ,  264   c ,  264   d  and a roof  266 , all or some of which may have mesh windows  268  to provide ventilation and light to an interior space  192 . As shown in  FIG. 26 , the roof  266  is a solid material such as canvas, while the four sides  264   a ,  264   b ,  264   c ,  264   d  are mesh. When the enclosure  260  and support frame  200  are arranged as described herein, the four sides  264   a ,  264   b ,  264   c ,  264   d  and the roof  266  define the internal space  110  within the enclosure  260 . Within this internal space  110 , a mattress  290  may be placed for a user of the confinement device  190  to sleep, sit, or play thereon. As will be described below, the mattress  290  may be placed into the confinement device  190  by way of a fastenable opening  270  or a mattress fastener  288   a ,  288   b . Due to the features of the confinement device  190  that will be described in more detail below, a user may use the mattress  290  in different states of exposure relative to the environment outside of the confinement device  190 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 16-20 , the structure of the frame  200  used to support the enclosure  260  will now be described. The frame  200  includes a base member  202  having a first side  204  and a second side  206  which are substantially parallel to each other and set apart at a preselected distance. The base member  202  may also include a third  208  and a fourth  210  side which serve to connect the first side  204  and the second side  206  by spanning the preselected distance. Some embodiments of the present disclosure may include additional stabilizing elements, e.g., plates or corner cross braces, in the plane of the base to provide additional structural stability to the base or for better overall stability of the confinement device. 
     The frame  200  also includes at least two upright members  212   a ,  212   b . The upright members  212   a ,  212   b  include first supports  214   a ,  214   b , second supports  216   a ,  216   b , and bridge portions  218   a ,  218   b . The bridge portions  218   a ,  218   b  further include first legs  220   a ,  220   b , second legs  222   a ,  222   b  and cross members  224   a ,  224   b . The first supports  214   a ,  214   b  extend upward from the first side  204  of the base member  202 , and the second supports  216   a ,  216   b  extend upward from the second side  206 . The bridge portions  218   a ,  218   b  serve to connect the first supports  214   a ,  214   b  and second supports  216   a ,  216   b  to each other, while extending across and over the base member  202 . The first legs  220   a ,  220   b  of the bridge portions  218   a ,  218   b  are connected to and extend upward from the first supports  214   a ,  214   b , and the second legs  222   a ,  222   b  are connected to and extend upward from the second supports  216   a ,  216   b . The connections between the first legs  220   a ,  220   b  and first supports  214   a ,  214   b  and the second legs  222   a ,  222   b  and the second supports  216   a ,  216   b  are made by way of lockable hinges  226 , which will be described in more detail below. 
     The cross members  224   a ,  224   b  may take various shapes as shown in  FIGS. 18A-20 . While only the cross member  224   a  is shown, it is understood that these figures are illustrative of the shape that the cross member  224   b  takes within the confinement device  190  as well. 
     With reference to  FIG. 18A , cross member  224   a  may be bent multiple times. It is understood that the cross member  224   a  may be arched, angled, or otherwise have its shape changed when the cross member  224   a  is described as being bent. As shown, the cross member is bent four times as it extends over the base member  202 . Each bend in the cross member  224   a  is made at a 45-degree angle until the cross member  224   a  extends from the first leg  220   a  to the second leg  222   a . This is called a Double  45  design. The 45-degree bends in the cross member  224   a  in the Double  45  design may be made based on an approximately 8-inch radius from the bend to a center point about which the bend is made. It is contemplated that other approximated radii may be used to create the bends in the cross member  224   a  depending on the size of the mattress  290  about which the confinement device  190  is designed. In this configuration, when viewed from the side, as shown in  FIG. 18A , the frame  200  takes a hexagonal shape. The hexagonal shape remains when the mattress  290  (identified by the phantom lines in  FIG. 18A ) is placed within the frame  200 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 19 , the cross member  224   a  may only bend in two locations and extend across the base member  202  in a straight line. In this configuration, when viewed from the side shown in  FIG. 19 , the frame  200  takes a rectangular shape which remains intact when the mattress  290  is placed within the frame  200 . With reference to  FIG. 20 , the cross member  224   a  may form a point at or near the midpoint of the distance separating the first side  204  and the second side  206  of the base member  202 . In this configuration, when viewed form the side shown in  FIG. 20 , the frame  200  takes a pentagonal shape which remains intact when the mattress  290  is placed within the frame  200 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 16-22C , the first  220   a ,  220   b  and second  222   a ,  222   b  legs are connected to the first  214   a ,  214   b  and second  216   a ,  216   b  supports by lockable hinges  226 . With reference to  FIGS. 21A-21C , a first embodiment of the lockable hinges  226  is shown. Although the lockable hinge  226  connecting supports  214   a  to leg  220   a  is shown, it is understood that this is illustrative. Each lockable hinge  226  connecting supports  214   b ,  216   a ,  216   b  respectively to legs  220   b ,  222   a ,  222   b  may be identical to that shown in  FIGS. 21A-21C . 
     The lockable hinge  226  has a first portion  230  connected to a terminal end of the first support  214   a  and a second portion  232  connected to a terminal end of the first leg  220   a . Both the terminal ends of the first support  214   a  and the first leg  220   a  may be received by the respective first  230  and second  232  portions of the lockable hinge  226  therein. The first support  214   a  and the first leg  220   a  may then be riveted to the first  230  and second  232  portions. It is contemplated that the first support  214   a  and the first leg  220   a  may be connected to the first  230  and second  232  portions by other means such as a frictional fit or by screwing the first support  214   a  and first leg  220   a  into their respective portions  230 ,  232  of the lockable hinge  226 . 
     In order to form the hinge, the first portion  230  of the lockable hinge  226  has a first extension  236  onto which a second extension  234  of the second portion  232  is rotatably mounted. This permits the second portion  232  to rotate about the first portion  230  as a hinge  235 . In order to lock the first portion  230  and the second portion  232  together, a locking peg  237  extends from the first portion  230  in the direction of the second portion  232 . The second portion has a receiving face  239  configured to receive the locking peg  237  therein. When received, the locking peg  237  locks or sticks within the receiving face  239 . The locking peg  237  may be locked within the receiving face  239  by way of a friction fit, snap fit, or other methods known to those having skill in the art. A button  238  is connected to the second extension  234  and, when pressed in the direction identified by the arrow in  FIG. 21C , the button  238  causes the receiving face  239  to loosen about the locking peg  237 . For example, if the locking peg  237  is snapped into place within the receiving face  239 , then by pressing the button  238 , the portion of the receiving face  239  into which the locking peg  237  was snapped will release the locking peg  237 . In other words, the button  238  is operatively connected to the receiving face  239  in order to facilitate locking and unlocking of the lockable hinge  226 . This configuration of the lockable hinge  226  is referred to as a button hinge. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 22A-22C , a second embodiment of a lockable hinge  326  is shown. Similar to the first embodiment, a first portion  330  of the lockable hinge  326  is connected to a terminal end of the first support  214   a , and a second portion  332  of the lockable hinge  326  is connected to a terminal end of the first leg  220   a . Both connections may be identical to those described above with respect to lockable hinge or button hinge  226 . Both portions  330 ,  332  also have respective extensions  336 ,  334  that cooperate to create a rotatable hinge  335  in the same manner as described above. In this embodiment, the first extension  336  and the second extension  334  have aligning receiving apertures configured to receive a locking pin  338  therethrough. When the locking pin  338  is placed through the receiving apertures, the hinge  326  is locked. When the locking pin  338  is removed from the receiving apertures, the hinge  326  is unlocked. 
     When the lockable hinges  226  are locked, the bridge portions  218   a ,  218   b  remain in an upward and locked position, as shown in  FIGS. 16, 18A, 19, and 20 . When the lockable hinges  226  are unlocked, the bridge portions  218   a ,  218   b  rotate into a downward, lowered position toward a portion of the mattress  290  and/or base  202  of the frame  200  that is located away from a center or midpoint of either element. The movement of the bridge portions  218   a ,  218   b  during unlocking is shown in  FIG. 17 , which indicates in phantom lines the path of the bridge portions  218   a ,  218   b  as it travels from the upright to the lowered position. A side view of a frame  200  with unlocked lockable hinges  226  is shown in  FIG. 18B . Unlocked bridge portions  218   a ,  218   b  will also be shown in figures during the discussion of the enclosure  266 . When unlocked, the bridge portions  218   a ,  218   b  may fall against a wall or another support structure (not shown) that may be positioned vertically above the mattress  290  and/or base  202  of the frame  200 . The ability for a user to toggle bridge portions  218   a ,  218   b  between the upright position and the downward, lowered position is advantageous for users of the portable confinement device  190 , as will be described in more detail below. 
     Referring back to  FIGS. 16 and 17 , the frame  200  may also have at least four stabilizing members  228   a ,  228   b ,  228   c ,  228   d . The stabilizing members  228   a ,  228   b ,  228   c ,  228   d  connect to the sides  204 ,  206  of the base member  202  and the supports  214   a ,  214   b ,  216   a ,  216   b , providing additional support to the upright members  212   a ,  212   b . The stabilizing members  228   a ,  228   b ,  228   c ,  228   d  may connect to the sides  204 ,  206  at any location, and they may connect to the supports  214   a ,  214   b ,  216   a ,  216   b  at any location below the first portion  230  of the lockable hinge  226 . It is contemplated that the stabilizing members  228   a ,  228   b ,  228   c ,  228   d  are capable of connecting to the sides  204 ,  206  of the base member  202  and the supports  214   a ,  214   b ,  216   a ,  216   b  at different angles in order to provide varying degrees of stability to the supports  214   a ,  214   b ,  216   a ,  216   b . For example, the stabilizing members  228   a ,  228   b ,  228   c ,  228   d  are shown making an approximately a 45 degree angle with the sides  204 ,  206  of the base  202  and the supports  214   a ,  214   b ,  216   a ,  216   b . These angles can be adjusted so that the stabilizing members  228   a ,  228   b ,  228   c ,  228   d  make approximately a 30 degree angle with the sides  204 ,  206  and a 60 degree angle with the supports  214   a ,  214   b ,  216   a ,  216   b , and vice versa. 
     The frame components described herein may be solid or hollow rods or bars of any cross-sectional shape. Preferably, they are tubes of circular cross-sectional shape. They may be made of plastic, metal, composite, or any other material that provides the requisite structural properties. Preferably, they are constructed to provide a combination of low weight and good structural strength to the frame  200 . In some embodiments, these frame components are steel or aluminum tubes. 
     Any means of attachment known to persons skilled in the art may be used to make the attachments between the first  214   a ,  214   b  and second  216   a ,  216   b  supports of the upright portions  212   a ,  212   b  and the first  204  and second  206  sides of the base member  202  described above. Any means of attachment known to persons skilled in the art may also be used to make the attachments between the stabilizing members  228   a ,  228   b ,  228   c ,  228   d  and supports  214   a ,  214   b ,  216   a ,  216   b  as well as the first  204  and second  206  sides of the base member  202  as described above. The preferred means of attachment are the eye-and-pin connector system  240  shown in  FIGS. 23A and 23B . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 23A and 23B , there is shown the attachment of a terminal end of support  228   d  to the second side  206  of the base member  202  by means of the eye-and-pin connector  240 . While only one attachment is shown, it is understood that this attachment is illustrative of all other eye-and-pin connector  240  attachments. In other words, the attachments between the supports  214   a ,  214   b ,  216   a ,  216   b , stabilizing members  228   a ,  228   b ,  228   c ,  228   d , and first side  204  and second side  206  of the base member  202 , shown in  FIGS. 16, 17, 37A, and 37B , may all made in the same manner. 
     The connector system  240  includes an eye end  242  which is pinned to a receiving jaw end  244  by a spring-loaded toggle pin  246  that extends through both. The eye end  242  may be riveted to the terminal end of the stabilizing member  228   d . It is also contemplated that the eye end  242  may receive the terminal end of the stabilizing member  228   d  therein by way of a friction fit or by way of a threaded screw of the terminal end of the stabilizing member  228   d  and a corresponding threaded hole within the eye end  242 . The receiving jaw  244  may also be riveted to the side  206  of the base  202 , or the receiving jaw  244  may receive the side  206  of the base therein by way of a friction or swaged fit. The toggle pin  246  is preferably tethered by way of a connecting ring  248  and a small ligature  250  to the side  206  of the base  202  to prevent loss of the toggle pin  246  when it is not in use. It is contemplated that the eye-and-pin connector system  240  may be made of various resilient materials such as plastic, steel, or other materials that interact with the materials making up the frame  200 . 
     In order to provide easy portability of the confinement device  190 , the pieces of the frame  200  discussed above may be further made up of other smaller pieces that join together in swaged connections. The swaged connection points  201 , shown in  FIGS. 16, 17, and 18A-20 , indicate where two pieces join together. In  FIG. 24 , an exploded view of the frame  200  is shown. Comparing  FIG. 16  to  FIG. 24 , the third side  208  of the base  202 , the fourth side  210  of the base  202 , and the cross members  224   a ,  224   b  of the upright members  212   a ,  212   b  are each made up of two smaller pieces that are swaged together in order to form the larger piece previously described. The third side  208  of the base  202  includes a first half  208   a  and a second half  208   b . The fourth side  210  of the base  202  includes a first half  210   a  and a second half  210   b . The first cross member  224   a  includes a first half  224   a   1  and a second half  224   a   2 . The second cross member  224   b  includes a first half  224   b   1  and a second half  224   b   2 . Each of the respective half pieces fit together to form the larger piece. The swaged connection occurs by fitting one half having a male end  252 , for example the first half of third side of the base  208   a , into the opposing half with a female end  253 , the second half of the third side of the base  208   b . The details of each end of the swaged connections as well as the mechanics thereof will be described in more detail below. 
     As is visible in  FIGS. 16 and 24 , multiple swaged connections are made between different elements of the frame  200 , not just those elements previously described. These connections will now be described. Referring to  FIG. 24 , the connections will be described going around the base member, and then moving upward going from left to right across the frame  200 . 
     The first half of the fourth side  210   a  of the base  202  includes one female end  253  and one male end  252 . The male end  252  is received by a first female end  253  on the second side  206  of the base  202 . The second side  206  includes a second female end  253  which connects to the second male end  252  on the first half of the third side  208   a . The connection between the first  208   a  and the second  208   b  halves of the third side  208  of the base  202  is the same as described above. The second half of the third side  208   b  of the base  202  connects to a first female end  253  of the first side  204  of the base  202 . A second female end  253  of the first side  204  connects with a first male end  252  of the second half of the fourth side  210   b  of the base  202 . A second male end  252  of the second half of the fourth side  210   b  then connects with the female end  253  on the first half of the fourth side  210   a . The connections between the supports  214   a ,  214   b ,  216   a ,  216   b , stabilizing members  228   a ,  228   b ,  228   c ,  228   d , and first side  204  and second side  206  of the base member  202 , as discussed above, remain the same. 
     Working upwardly, the first leg  220   a  of the first bridge member  218   a  extends upward from the lockable hinge  226  having the connection therebetween as described above. A female end  253  on the end opposing the lockable hinge  226  connects with the male end  252  on the first half of the first cross member  224   a   1 . A female end on the first half of the first cross member  224   a   1  connects to a first male end  252  on the second half of the first cross member  224   a   2 . The second half of the first cross member  224   a   2  also has a second male end  252  that connects to a female end  253  of the second leg  222   a . The connection between the second leg  222   a  and the lockable hinge  226  is the same as described above. 
     The connections along the second bridge member  218   b  are similar to the ones just described. The first leg  220   b  extends upward from the lockable hinge  226  having the connection therebetween as discussed above. The first leg  220   b  has a female end that connects to a male end  252  on the first half of the second cross member  224   b   1 . The first half of the second cross member  224   b   1  also has a female end  253  that connects to a first male end  252  on the second half of the second cross member  224   b   2 . A second male end  252  on the second half of the second cross member  224   b   2  connects to a female end  253  on the second leg  222   b  which connects to the lockable hinge  226  as described above. 
     With reference to  FIG. 25 , the formation of the swaged connections is shown. Each swaged connection is identical to the one shown. A male end  252  is inserted into a female end  253 . The male end  252  has a smaller diameter than the female end  253  in order to facilitate proper mating between the pieces. As the male end  252  is inserted into the female end  253 , a retractable locking tab  254  on the male end  252  is pushed into the male end  252  by the female end  253 . As the male end  252  slides within the female end  253 , the locking tab  254  pops out and through a receiving hole  255 , locking the male end  252  in place. When the male end  252  is locked in place, an abutting face  257  of the female end  253  is pressed against the swaged portion  256  of the male end  252 . This creates a friction fit between the abutting face  257  and the swaged portion  256 , thus providing additional security in the mating of the opposing pieces. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 15 and 26-38 , the enclosure  260  of the confinement device  100  will now be described in relation to the frame  200 . As shown in  FIGS. 15 and 26-29 , the enclosure  260  is in a closed state where the four sides  264   a ,  264   b ,  264   c ,  264   d  and the roof  266  surround the internal space  110 . In this state, a fastenable opening  270  extends around the enclosure  260 . The fastenable opening  270  is preferably fastened with a zipper, but fastening means such as hook-and-loop fasteners, buttons, or other means known to those having ordinary skill in the art may be used. When a zipper is used, the zipper has a handle  272  for operation of the fastenable opening  270 . The zipper may also have multiple handles  272  in order to facilitate a more efficient opening in opposing directions. The fastenable opening  270  can only be fastened and unfastened when bridge portions  218   a ,  218  (not shown) of the frame  200  are in the upright positions as discussed above. However, when the fastenable opening  270  is unfastened, the bridge portions  218   a ,  218   b  can move between the upright and downward positions by operating the lockable hinges  226 . 
     The fastenable opening  270  extends along one or more of the four sides  264   a ,  264   b ,  264   c ,  264   d  as well as the roof  266 . The fastenable opening  270  begins and ends on the roof  266  near one of the bridge portions  218   a ,  218   b  in a central location relative to the second side  264   b  and the fourth side  264   d  of the flexible enclosure  260 . As shown, the fastenable opening  270  is nearest the first bridge portion  218   a , covered by pocket  280   a , which will be described in more detail below. 
     The fastenable opening  270  extends along the roof  266  toward the corner made by the roof  266 , first side  264   a , and fourth side  264   d . The fastenable opening then extends downward and around the fourth side  264   d . It then continues upward to the corner made by the roof  266 , fourth side  264   d , and third side  264   c . The fastenable opening  270  continues along the roof  266  until it reaches the corner made by roof  266 , the third side  264   c , and the second side  264   b . It then extends downward and around the second side  264   b  in a path identical to the path made along the fourth side  264   d . The fastenable opening  270  then continues upward to the corner made by the roof  266 , the first side  264   a , and the second side  264   b  and continues until it ends near its starting point on the roof  266 . 
     In some instances, it may be desirable to have the fastenable opening  270  only be operable from outside of the enclosure. In these instances, zipper handles  272  may include a strip of Velcro® attached thereto. Then, the zipper handles  272  may attach to a corresponding Velcro® strip  273  on the roof  266  of the enclosure  260 . By attaching the zipper handles  272  to the roof  266  by way of the Velcro® strip  273 , an individual within the interior  192  of the confinement device  100  cannot access the zipper handles  272  and will remain inside the interior space  192  surrounded by the enclosure  260  when the fastenable opening  270  is closed. Other attachment mechanisms may be used to secure the zipper handles  272  to the roof of the enclosure, such as buttons, clips, or ties. In other instances, it may be desirable to have an individual within the interior  192  be capable of operating the fastenable opening  270 . In this case, the zipper handles  272  may rotate so as to be accessible from within the interior space  192 , allowing an individual within the interior space  192  to open and close the fastenable opening  270 . Additional features to secure the enclosure  260  from the outside and to permit the fastenable opening  270  from opening from within the interior space  192  are discussed in more detail below in connection with  FIGS. 38 and 39 . 
     Along with the fastenable opening  270 , a side opening  274  may be located on the third side  264   c , of the enclosure  260 , as shown in  FIGS. 15 and 26-29 . The side opening  274  may also be located on the first side  264   a . The side opening  264   a  may take a rounded corner square shape about the third side  264   c , or it may take other shapes, such as that shown in  FIG. 12 . Like the fastenable opening  270 , the side opening  274  may also be a zipper having a zipper handle  272 . The zipper handle  272  may also have a Velcro® strip  273  attached thereto in order to attach the zipper handle  272  to a corresponding Velcro® strip  273 . This again prevents a person inside the interior space  192  of the confinement device  190  from operating the side opening  274  and exiting the confinement device  190 . 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 15 and 26-40 , the fastenable opening  270  can be fastened or unfastened when the bridge portions  218   a ,  218   b  are in the upright position. When unfastened, the roof  266  and sides  264   b ,  264   d  of the flexible enclosure  260  can be rolled back, away from the enclosure, falling against the first side  264   a  of the flexible enclosure  260 , as shown in  FIGS. 30-32 . When unfastened, the opening permits a user of the confinement device  190  to move the bridge portions  218   a ,  218   b  into the downward position by operating the lockable hinges  226 . By moving the bridge portions  218   a ,  218   b  into the downward positions, the opening  270  created by the confinement device  190  grows wider and may expose the entirety of or a large portion of the mattress  290  from above permitting a user to replace the mattress within the enclosure and/or to raise or lower an individual into or out of the confinement device  190 . This is shown in  FIGS. 33-35 . Entering or exiting the confinement device  190  can be done manually or with the use of a hoisting device, such as a crane (not shown). After a user has entered the confinement device  190 , the bridge portions  218   a ,  218   b  may be returned to their upright position, and the fastenable opening  270  may be closed around the user in the opposite direction in which it was opened. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 15, 26, 28, 32, and 36A and 36B , the enclosure  260  is supported by the frame  200  in an attachable manner. As shown, only the roof of the enclosure  260  is attached to the frame  200 . Padded pockets  280   a ,  280   b  may extend from the roof  266  of the enclosure  260  near sides  264   a ,  264   c , or the padded pockets  280   a ,  280   b  may extend from the sides  264   a ,  264   c  of the enclosure  260  near the roof  266 . In either instance, the padded pockets  280   a ,  280   b  encircle portions of the frame  200  in order to support the enclosure  260  on the frame  200 . The padded pockets  280   a ,  280   b  may extend around as much or as little of the frame  200  as necessary in order to secure the enclosure  260  to the frame  200 . The padded pockets  280   a ,  280   b  may wrap around the cross members  224   a ,  224   b  and/or the first legs  220   a ,  220   b  and second legs  222   a ,  222   b . As shown, the padded pockets  280   a ,  280   b  wrap around each of these frame  200  elements. The padded pockets  280   a ,  280   b  have padding sewn inside of each so as to protect a user of the confinement device  190  as well as individuals on the outside from being injured by contacting or striking the portions of the frame  200  covered by the padded pockets  280   a ,  280   b.    
     The padded pockets  280   a ,  280   b  are secured around the cross members  224   a ,  224   b  and the first legs  220   a ,  220   b  and second legs  222   a ,  222   b  by way of two pocket fasteners  282   a ,  282   b . The padded pockets  280   a ,  280   b  extend in a direction away from the side along which they are aligned, and wrap around and encircle the cross members  224   a ,  224   b , first legs  220   a ,  220   b , and second leas  222   a ,  222   b . After wrapping around these parts of the frame  200 , the pocket fasteners  282   a ,  282   b  secure the padded pockets  280   a ,  280   b  in place. Corresponding halves of the pocket fasteners  282   a ,  282   b  are located on opposing sides of the cross members  224   a ,  224   b  when the padded pockets  280   a ,  280   b  are unfastened. 
     Like the fastenable opening  270  and the side opening  274 , the pocket fasteners  282   a ,  282   b  are shown as zippers, but they may be a different known fastener. As shown in  FIGS. 36A and 36B , the pocket fastener  282   a  is zipped along its entire length to secure the enclosure  260  to the frame  200 . The pocket fastener  282   a  is zipped along its length starting on the fourth side  264   d , extending upward to the roof  266 , across the roof  266 , and then downward along the second side  264   b  where the pocket fastener  282   a  terminates. The pocket fastener  282   a  may also be zipped in the opposite direction. While only pocket fastener  282   a  is shown, both pocket fasteners  282   a ,  282   b  may begin and terminate at a location adjacent to the lockable hinges  226 , so that, after unfastening the pocket fasteners  282   a ,  282   b  enough so as to expose the lockable hinges  226 , the lockable hinges  226  can be operated and the bridge portions  218   a ,  218   b  can be moved to the downward position. In the case of button hinges  226 , the button hinges  226  may be operated by pushing the button  238  through the pocket fasteners  282   a ,  282   b  while the button hinges  226  are enclosed within by the pocket fasteners  282   a ,  282   b . Depending on the size of the frame  200 , multiple pocket fasteners  282   a ,  282   b  may be utilized on each side of the flexible enclosure  260 . When multiple pocket fasteners  282   a ,  282   b  are used, they may begin and end at a location along the second side  264   b  and the fourth side  264   d  and near a center point along the roof  266 . 
     While only the roof  266  of the enclosure  260  attaches to the frame  200  for support, other portions of the enclosure  260  may have fasteners, buttons, ties or other attachment mechanisms in order to secure the enclosure  260  to the frame. For example, the bottom  262  of the enclosure  260  may have straps (not shown) in order to secure the enclosure  260  to the base  202  of the frame  200 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 36A-37B , stabilizer pads  284   a ,  284   b  may wrap around and cover the generally triangular shape formed by the connected stabilizing members  228   a ,  228   b , first supports  214   a ,  214   b , and the portion of the first side  204  of the base  202  extending therebetween. As shown in  FIGS. 28 and 32 , identical stabilizer pads  284   c ,  284   d  may be included for the generally triangular shape formed by the stabilizing members  228   c ,  228   d , second supports  216   a ,  216   b , and the portion of the second side  206  of the base  202  extending therebetween. Like the padded pockets  280   a ,  280   b , the stabilizer pads  284   a ,  284   b  also have padding sewn inside of them in order to prevent individuals, whether inside the confinement device  100  or not, from injury by contacting the first supports  214   a ,  214   b , the second supports  216   a ,  216   b , or the stabilizing members  228   a ,  228   b ,  228   c ,  228   d.    
     The stabilizer pads  284   a ,  284   b  are formed independently of the enclosure  260 . As shown in  FIGS. 37A and 37B , when attaching the stabilizer pad  284   b  to the frame  200 , the stabilizer pad  284   b  wraps behind and around the first support  214   b  and the stabilizing member  228   b  on the side of the first support  214   b  and the stabilizing member  228   b  nearest the enclosure  260 . The stabilizer pad  284   b  then wraps back around and in front of the stabilizing member  228   b  and the first support  214   b  so that the free ends  285   b ,  287   b  of the stabilizer pad  284   b  can be fastened together, thus enclosing the first support  214   b , stabilizing member  228   b , and associated eye-and-pin connector  240  within the stabilizer pad  284   b . The size of the stabilizer pad  284   b  is such that at least a portion of the first side  204  of the base and eye-and-pin connectors  240  attached thereto is covered by the stabilizing pad  284   b  when fastened. Like the previous fasteners described and shown herein, the free ends  285   b ,  287   b  of the stabilizer pad  284   b  are fastened together with a fastener  286   b  that is a zipper, although other fasteners may be used. The free ends  285   b ,  287   b  of the stabilizer pad  284   b  may each have half of the corresponding fastener  286   b  thereon. In this instance, corresponding halves of the zipper is attached to the free ends  285   b ,  287   b . When the free ends  285   b ,  287   b  are brought back into contact after wrapping around the first support  214   b  and the stabilizing member  228   b , the fastener  286   b  may be secured by being zipper along the length of the first support  214   b . Although only one stabilizer pad  284   b  is shown, it is understood that this is illustrative of how the other stabilizer pads  284   a ,  284   c ,  284   d  are secured around the support frame  200 . 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 15 and 26-40 , the flexible enclosure  260  is constructed of strong, durable materials so that it is effective in confining a person and can be used daily for weeks, months, or even years. Any suitable materials known to persons skilled in the art may be used for making the enclosure  260 . The materials are preferably fire retardant. A particularly preferred material is a polyester mesh for the windows  268  and canvas for the non-mesh portions.  FIG. 1  shows the flexible enclosure  260  with a mesh roof  266 .  FIG. 26  shows that the roof  266  of the enclosure  260  may be made of a canvas or another opaque material. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 15, 26, 27, 29-31, 33, 34, 36A-37, and 40 , mattress fasteners  288   a ,  288   b  are located near the bottom  262  of the enclosure  260 . The mattress fastener  288   a  extends from the second side  264   b  to the fourth side  264   d , crossing the first side  264   a  in the process. The mattress fastener also extends from the second side  264   b  to the fourth side  264   d  while crossing the third side  264   c . The mattress fasteners  288   a ,  288   b  open to a pocket  301  within the enclosure  260  configured to receive the mattress  290  therein. When the confinement device  190  includes the mattress fasteners  288   a ,  288   b , the mattress  290  may be received entirely within the pocket  301 , unexposed to the interior space  192 . A floor  300  of the interior space  192  covers the mattress  290 . The floor  300  serves as a coverlet to the mattress  290 . The pocket  301  is therefore defined by the floor  300  and the bottom  262  of the enclosure  260 , and the mattress fasteners  288   a ,  288   b  serve to connect the floor  300  to the bottom  262 . This configuration prevents an individual within the confinement device  190  from accessing the mattress  290 . Like the other fasteners described herein, the mattress fasteners  288   a ,  288   b  are shown as zippers, but other fasteners known to those having skill in the art may be used. When the mattress fasteners  288   a ,  288   b  are closed, the respective zipper handles  289  of the mattress fasteners  288   a ,  288   b  are located cater-corner to each other relative to the confinement device  190 . In other words, a first zipper handle  289  is located nearest the corner made by the third side  264   c  and the fourth side  264   d , while a second zipper (not shown) is located nearest the corner made by the first side  264   a  and the second side  264   b.    
     With reference to  FIGS. 37A and 37B , the first zipper handle  289  of mattress fastener  288   b  is shown. In order to prevent an individual from accessing the pocket  301 , a clip  291  is provided on and attached to the outside of the enclosure  266 . The clip  291  may engage with and clip the zipper handle  289  in order to secure it, so that the mattress zipper  288   b  remains closed. This prevents an individual from accessing the pocket  301  and potentially getting trapped between the floor  300  and the bottom  262  of the enclosure  260 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 38 , another security feature for the openings  270 ,  274  and zipper handles  272  of the confinement device  190  is shown. This feature is in the form of a webbing  303  sewn into or otherwise attached to the inside of the enclosure  260 . For example, the webbing  303  may be sewn onto the underside of the roof  266  of the enclosure  260  and be open to the interior space  192 . The webbing  303  may be made of mesh, vinyl, cloth, or other materials known to those having skill in the art. As shown, the webbing  303  extends from end portions of the Velcro® strip  273  on the roof  266  and covers the arears near the starting and end points of the fastenable opening  270 . The webbing  303  covers the starting and end areas of the fastenable opening  270  so that the zipper handles  272  cannot be manipulated or opened by an individual within the interior space  192  of the confinement device  190  when the fastenable opening  270  is closed and the zipper handles  272  are secured to the Velcro® strip  273 . When closed, the underside of the zipper handles  272  are not exposed to the interior space  192 . In order to do this, the webbing  303  extends at least a finger&#39;s length or a hand&#39;s length from the Velcro® strip  273  in order to prevent the individual from grabbing the back of the zipper handles  272  from the interior space  292  in order to pull the zipper handles  272  down and open the fastenable opening  270 . The webbing  303  may also be attached to the enclosure  260  directly underneath and adjacent to the fastenable opening  270  so that there is no space between the webbing  303  and the enclosure  260  between which the individual can gain access. The webbing  303  may be made of any material thick enough to sufficiently cover the zipper handles  272  and prevent the individual inside the interior space  192  from manipulating the zipper handles  272  through the webbing  303 . While  FIG. 38  shows the zipper handles  272  and fastenable opening  270  on the roof  266  of the enclosure, it is understood that the webbing  303  can be applied under other zipper handles  272  of the confinement device  190 , such as the zipper handles  272  on the side opening  274  of the enclosure  290 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 39 , a second embodiment of the zipper handle  275  is shown. This embodiment includes a handle  275  having two parts. An outside handle  275   a  includes the Velcro® strip corresponding to the Velcro® strips  273  on the enclosure  260 , and operates as the zipper handles previously described. The inside handle  275   b  extends into the interior space  192 . The fastenable openings  270 ,  274  with this handle  275  may operate as each of the fastenable openings  270 ,  274  described above, but the inside handle  275   b  permits an individual within the interior space  192  to operate the zipper handles  274  of the enclosure permitting the individual to enter and leave the enclosure  290  at their discretion. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 40 , the confinement device  190  may rest atop a box spring  292 . In this instance, the base  202  of the frame  200  may be provided with stabilizing straps  294 ,  296  which extend from the first side  204  across to the second side  206 . The stabilizing straps  294 ,  296  are configured to wrap around the box spring  292  in order to secure the confinement device  190  thereto. The stabilizing straps  294  may also wrap around a bed frame (not shown) upon which the box spring  292  sits. In this configuration, the confinement device  190  may be secured and prevented from tipping over. This provides extra stabilizing support for the confinement device  100  so that it may remain upright. It is further contemplated that additional stabilizing straps may extend from the third side  208  across to the fourth side  210  of the base  202  of the frame  200  in order to further secure the confinement device  190  to the box spring  292 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 15, 26, 27, 30, 31, 36A, 36B, and 40  the flexible enclosure  260  may also have one or more access ports  302 . These access ports  302  facilitate a connection between the user of the confinement device  190  and various assistance devices such as medical instruments, tools, or tubes (not shown). For example, a feeding tube, pulse oximeter, intravenous line, or other device can be connected to or placed through the access ports  302  in order to connect to or connect with a user inside the confinement device  190 . This provides added health benefits and may increase comfort for the user inside of the confinement device  190 . The access ports  302  are shown on the fourth side  264   d  of the enclosure  260 , although they may be placed on other sides  264   a ,  264   b ,  264   d  of the enclosure  260  or on multiple sides as desired. It is contemplated that the access ports  302  may be operable in any manner in order to provide the necessary assistance to a user of the confinement device  190 . For example, the access ports  302  may be a zipper, slotted webbing, button or Velcro® opening. The access ports  302  may be any size depending on the assistance device connected to the access ports  302 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 41A-42 , the portable confinement device  190  is designed to fit into a suitcase  400  or other portable storage device for storage and transportation of the portable confinement device  190 . As discussed in connection with  FIG. 24 , the portable confinement device  190  may be broken down into its respective pieces in order to transport the portable confinement device  190  within the suitcase  400 . The suitcase  400  includes a handle  402  and four wheels  404   a ,  404   b ,  404   c ,  404   d  (wheel  404   d  not shown) for easy travel. The suitcase  400  has an interior  406  large enough to contain the broken down frame  200  and the flexible enclosure  260 . 
     Although the invention has been described in detail for the purpose of illustration based on what are currently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that such detail is solely for that purpose and that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments but, on the contrary, is intended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements that are within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, it is to be understood that the present invention contemplates that to the extent possible, one or more features of any aspect or embodiment can be combined with one or more features of any other aspect or embodiment.