Patent Description:
Research has shown that there seems to be an ideal temperature for sleep and when this temperature is very high, it takes longer to fall asleep, and once sleep is achieved, it may be broken up or fragmented. This problem is exacerbated during the summer months, causing people to lose much needed sleep, which leads to poor performance the next day and potential health risks in the long term.

When temperature variations are prevented, research shows that people sleep better and feel more rested and revitalized the next day.

It would be desirable to offer to consumers who naturally sleep hot and whose sleep is continually disrupted by excessive heat storage in the mattress.

A need exists to provide a bed assembly with improved functionality of sleeping comfort. Therefore, it may be desirable to provide ventilation for a bed or other cushioned device.

<CIT> discloses fire resistant mattresses, fire resistant mattress cover materials and related methods. The fire resistant mattress cover material for use as an outer layer on a mattress can include a three-dimensional knit fabric. In some examples, the three-dimensional knit fabric can include a first layer comprising fire resistant corespun yarns, which can be glass reinforced continuous multifilament micro denier yarns, that form a fire resistant barrier when exposed to at least one of heat or flame and a second layer comprising polymer filament yarns. The three-dimensional knit fabric can also include a middle layer between the first layer and the second layer. The middle layer can include monofilament polymer yarns knitted to provide structural support and space between the first layer and the second layer.

<CIT> discloses a futon cushion system comprising a foam core having a first side and a second side, and a first cover defining a cavity for enclosing the foam core, with the first cover further including a zipper for removably securing the first cover around the foam core. A second cover is selectively attachable to at least a top panel of the first cover.

The information included in this Background section of the specification, including any references cited herein and any description or discussion thereof, is included for technical reference purposes only and is not to be regarded subject matter by which the scope of the invention is to be bound.

The present application discloses one or more of the features recited in the appended claims and/or the following features which alone or in any combination, may comprise patentable subject matter.

The invention as defined in claim <NUM> relates to a cover for a ventilated body support cushion comprises a top panel having an upper layer ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and a lower layer fire resistant yarn knit to the upper layer, a border disposed beneath the top panel and having an inner panel, the inner panel including a bi-directionally stretched spacer fabric, the spacer fabric further comprising a three dimensional cross-structure, and, wherein the spacer fabric improves ventilation by reducing dry thermal resistance. The cover may further comprise a fire resistant topical chemistry on the upper layer. The fire resistant yarn may be a modacrylic yarn. The cover may further comprise a fastener to attach the top panel to the border. The spacer fabric may have a first upper layer and a second lower layer and said three dimensional cross structure therebetween.

All of the above outlined features are to be understood as exemplary only and many more features and objectives of the various embodiments may be gleaned from the disclosure herein. Therefore, no limiting interpretation of this summary is to be understood without further reading of the entire specification, claims and drawings, included herewith. A more extensive presentation of features, details, utilities, and advantages of the present invention is provided in the following written description of various embodiments of the invention, illustrated in the accompanying drawings, and defined in the appended claims.

In order that the embodiments may be better understood, embodiments of a body support cushion with ventilation system will now be described by way of examples. These embodiments are not to limit the scope of the claims as other embodiments of a body support cushion with ventilation system will become apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art upon reading the instant description. Non-limiting examples of the present embodiments are shown in figures wherein only <FIG> shows a mattress cover according to an embodiment of the invention and wherein further:.

It is to be understood that a body support cushion with ventilation system is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The described embodiments are capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Unless limited otherwise, the terms "connected," "coupled," and "mounted," and variations thereof herein are used broadly and encompass direct and indirect connections, couplings, and mountings. In addition, the terms "connected" and "coupled" and variations thereof are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings.

Referring now to <FIG>, the instant bed assembly provides ventilation through a body support cushion, such as for non-limiting example a mattress. This bed assembly uses active ventilation that prevents temperature fluctuations in bed and keeps the customer at a level body temperature throughout the night. It works by drawing in ambient air from the environment and pushing in through the mattress until it reaches the consumer's body unnoticed. During its trajectory, the air may be filtered and so the incoming air is free of bacteria, pollen and the secretions of house dust mites. By continuously flowing fresh air through the mattress, the surface temperature on the mattress and relative humidity in the micro-climate, remain constant throughout the night which means that there is no heat buildup and no undesired humidity. When temperature variations are prevented, research shows that people sleep better and feel more rested and revitalized the next day. Moreover, in some examples, the air may be conditioned (cooled or heated) to the ideal temperature based on the costumer's sleeping profile and by continuously directing a temperature-controlled air flow through the bed, the mattress retains freshness and stays optimally dry and hygienic.

Referring now to <FIG>, a perspective view of a bed assembly <NUM> is depicted. The bed assembly <NUM> comprises a mattress <NUM> and a foundation <NUM>. Although the mattress <NUM> is depicted throughout this example, one skilled in the art should recognize that a mattress is merely one type of body support cushion and other body support cushion structures may be utilized within the scope of the instant disclosure. Thus, the scope of the claims should not be limited to a mattress but may include other structures as well.

The mattress <NUM> may be formed of foam layers in some examples. However, in other examples, the mattress <NUM> may also incorporate springs in combination with the foam. Further, the mattress <NUM> may also be one which is always in a horizontal position, as shown, or may also be formed to allow for a movable foundation.

The foundation <NUM> may be a fixed foundation such that the position of the bed assembly <NUM> position and the position of mattress <NUM> is not adjustable, or alternatively, the foundation <NUM> maybe adjustable such that the mattress <NUM> is moveable to alternate positions such as a reading position or other upright positions, which may be desirable for example for watching television or during times when the user wants to use the bed assembly <NUM> but not necessarily sleep.

The foundation <NUM> may comprise a plurality of legs <NUM> on which at least one frame or base <NUM> is positioned. The legs <NUM> may each be a single structure or may be formed of a plurality of structures which may allow for variation of the height of the foundation <NUM> and the overall bed assembly <NUM>. The frame <NUM> may be defined by a plurality of surrounding members <NUM> and one or more support members <NUM> (<FIG>) extending between the surrounding members <NUM>. Additionally, a deck <NUM> (<FIG>) may be disposed upon the frame <NUM>. The deck <NUM> provides a support surface for the mattress <NUM> which is positioned upon the deck <NUM>, as depicted. The deck <NUM> may be fixed or may have fixed and movable portions to allow adjustment of the mattress position. These portions may be seen in <FIG>.

The mattress <NUM> is defined by a plurality of layers <NUM> of foam. The foam layers <NUM> will be described further herein but allow for movement of ventilation air from an air mover disposed on the frame <NUM> or deck <NUM>. The ventilation air moves from an air mover, such as a fan or pump, which is positioned on the frame <NUM>. The air mover may be at a fixed location, or may move with the foundation, and directs air upwardly through the foam layers <NUM> and by way of multiple apertures which allow flow communication through the mattress <NUM>. Accordingly, ventilation air is provided to an upper surface of the mattress <NUM> and it allows for the ventilation to inhibit heat buildup and undesired humidity which provides for better sleep for the user.

Referring now to <FIG>, an exploded perspective view of the bed assembly <NUM> of <FIG> is depicted. The mattress <NUM> is exploded from the foundation <NUM> comprising the frame <NUM> and deck <NUM> to depict the upper surface of the deck <NUM>. Additionally, two fan assemblies <NUM> are shown exploded from beneath the frame <NUM>. The bed assembly <NUM> includes a head end <NUM> of the bed, which is generally at the right-hand side of the figure, and a foot end <NUM>, which is generally at the left-hand side of the depicted figure. The head end <NUM> and foot end <NUM> generally define a longitudinal direction LO therebetween for the bed assembly <NUM> and which is referenced merely for ease of description, but is not limiting. In a perpendicular direction of the longitudinal direction Lo of the bed assembly <NUM> is lateral direction LA which extends between the sides of the mattress <NUM>. The longitudinal and latitudinal directions are generally depicted by lines marked Lo and LA. Again, these directions are merely provided for ease of description in referencing directions throughout this disclosure but should not be considered limiting.

Extending from the deck <NUM> is a mattress retainer <NUM>. The retainer <NUM> is shown extending from the upper surface of the deck <NUM> near the foot end <NUM> of the bed assembly <NUM>. This may be desirable when the deck <NUM> and mattress <NUM> are intended to be adjusted and therefore prevent the mattress <NUM> from sliding off from the deck <NUM>. The mattress retainer <NUM> is shown at the foot end <NUM> and generally centered on the deck <NUM>, but may alternatively be located in other positions.

The deck <NUM> is also shown with first and second conduit apertures <NUM> located therein. The conduit apertures <NUM> allow for passage of the conduit <NUM> upwardly through the upper surface of the deck <NUM> providing for ventilation air to move from beneath the deck <NUM> up through the deck <NUM> and also allow for flow communication with the mattress <NUM>. The conduit <NUM> may be flexible where the deck is not moveable or alternatively may be flexible where the deck includes a movable portion. In some examples, the conduit may be defined by a combination of rigid and flexible portions.

Referring now to <FIG>, the mattress <NUM> is shown in an exploded perspective view to depict the various layers of foam and material used to provide for ventilation. Starting at the bottom of the layers, a lower support layer is provided and may be formed of a convoluted foam <NUM> is depicted. The convoluted foam <NUM> may also be referred to as egg crate foam and provides a foundation for the remainder of the mattress layers.

The convoluted foam <NUM> may be a bottom hymax layer. The convoluted foam <NUM> provides a non-planar upper surface which may be defined by a plurality of curved or angular shapes. The term "foam" means a material in a lightweight cellular form, for example resulting from introduction of gas bubbles during manufacture to produce a consistent cell structure, and/or any of various light, porous, semirigid or spongy materials or cellular solids, usually the solidified form of a liquid full of gas bubbles, which may be used as a building material or for shock absorption, and includes open cell foams such as polyurethane foam, latex, memory foam, specialty memory foam, gel memory foam, gel latex foam, gel infused foam, a multi-gel foam, a high thermal conductivity foam, or other gel foams, etc. A component core layer may be any mattress core construction including, but not limited to, a foam core, a gel foam core, a latex core, an inner spring layer, a layer of individually wrapped or encased coils, an inflated air system, or a liquid system, e.g., water. According to some examples, the convoluted foam <NUM> may be an open-celled non-reticulated visco-elastic foam. In some examples it is desirable that the convoluted foam <NUM> of reticulated non-visco-elastic foam be capable of providing some degree of support that is substantially independent of temperatures experienced by the upper layers when supporting a user's body (i.e., independent of a user's body heat). Therefore, the convoluted foam <NUM> can comprise reticulated non-visco-elastic foam that is substantially insensitive to temperature changes within a range of between about <NUM>° C. and about <NUM>° C. As used herein, a material is "substantially insensitive" to temperature changes if the material exhibits a change in hardness of less than <NUM>% measured by ISO Standard <NUM> through the range of temperatures between <NUM> and <NUM> degrees Celsius. Other temperature ranges are also capable of use and therefore the temperature range should only be considered illustrative and not limiting. In some examples, the bottom layer <NUM> has a density of no less than about <NUM>/m3 and no greater than about <NUM>/m3. In other examples, a bottom layer <NUM> having a density of at least about <NUM>/m3 and no greater than about <NUM>/m3 is utilized. In still other examples, a bottom layer <NUM> having a density of at least about <NUM>/m3 and no greater than about <NUM>/m3 is utilized.

Disposed above the convoluted foam layer <NUM>, is an air distribution assembly <NUM>. The air distribution assembly <NUM> comprises a flat foam layer <NUM> positioned on the convoluted foam <NUM> and comprises cavities <NUM>. Again the foam layer <NUM> may be any of the types described previously. In some examples, the layer <NUM> may comprise of a cellular structure of flexible visco-elastic polyurethane foam in which the walls of the individual cells are substantially intact. In some examples, the bottom layer <NUM>, if comprising reticulated foam, can reduce heat in the higher layers, due at least in part to the cellular structure of the foam of the bottom layer <NUM>. The cavities <NUM> may include an envelope material <NUM> which precludes air flow which enters the cavity <NUM> from exiting in an unintended direction. Otherwise stated, the envelope material <NUM> defines a flow boundary in order to control air flow in the cavity <NUM> and direct the air flow in a desired direction. The envelope material <NUM> may be formed of heat pressed TPU. In some non-limiting examples, the envelope material may be a multilayer material of polyester, TPU, and polyester. More specifically, and without limitation, the multilayer may comprise a first layer of <NUM> gsm polyester knitted fabric, a second layer of TPU and a third layer of polyester knitted fabric. These layers may be bonded together in a variety of non-limiting manners including but not limited to melting, welding, sewing, adhesive bonding or other forms or combinations of any of these. However, these bonding methods are not to be considered limiting. The illustrative, non-limiting poly knitted envelope material <NUM> may be available commercially from Standard Fiber, LLC of Burlingame, CA.

Disposed above the cavities <NUM>, the air distribution assembly <NUM> further comprises an air distribution material <NUM>. The air distribution material <NUM> is positioned in the cavities <NUM> upon assembly and may be a reticulated foam or other porous material which allows air flow to move through the material <NUM> within the cavity <NUM>, generally move horizontally and upwardly, from within the cavity <NUM> to the foam layers above. The air distribution material <NUM> allows the air flow to spread within the cavity <NUM> and is bounded by the envelope material <NUM>, which prevents the air flow from moving beyond the cavity area and outwardly, for example horizontally, through the flat foam layer <NUM>.

Disposed above the air distribution material <NUM> and on top of the flat foam layer <NUM>, the air distribution assembly <NUM> further comprises at least one layer which may be a foam envelope layer <NUM> in some examples. The foam envelope layer <NUM> comprises a foam material, including any of the previously described examples, and along the lower surface may optionally include an additional envelope material <NUM>. In some examples, the foam envelope layer <NUM> may comprise a cellular structure of flexible visco-elastic polyurethane foam in which the walls of the individual cells are substantially intact. In some optional examples, the envelope material <NUM> on the bottom of foam <NUM> limits flow of air from the air distribution material <NUM> to specific directions. The additional envelope material <NUM> may be formed of heat pressed TPU and/or as previsouly described a multilayer pressed material. This material <NUM> may for example be the same as that described poly knitted fabric or envelope material <NUM>. In some examples, the foam envelope layer <NUM> may have density which is of a value that is high enough to limit or restrict air flow effectively without requiring the additional envelope material <NUM>. In either arrangement, the airflow is limited to directions which are desired, such as the following manner. The foam envelope layer <NUM> may include a plurality of air flow apertures <NUM>, which extend through the foam envelope layer <NUM> and through the optional envelope material <NUM>, if used, on the bottom surface thereof so as to be in flow communication with the air distribution material <NUM>. As one skilled in the art will understand, when the foam envelope layer <NUM> is positioned over the flat layer <NUM> with the air distribution material <NUM> therebetween, air moves upwardly through the flat layer <NUM> and spreads in the cavity <NUM> through the air distribution material <NUM>. Air continues upwardly through the holes of the optional envelope material <NUM> and is limited in flow direction moving through the apertures <NUM> in the foam envelope layer <NUM>. The apertures <NUM> may be all of a single size or may vary in diameter. Also, the density of holes <NUM> may vary depending on the area of the mattress where a user may be positioned.

Disposed above the foam envelope layer <NUM> is a body support foam layer <NUM>. The body support foam layer <NUM> may also be defined by the foam envelope layer <NUM> or by a separate distinct foam layer as shown. The body support layer <NUM> includes a plurality of apertures <NUM> which are aligned with the <NUM> of the layer <NUM>. The body support layer <NUM> or a combination of the layer <NUM> and the foam envelope layer <NUM> may define a comfort layer. This allows for movement of air upwardly through the two layers to the top surface <NUM> of the body support layer <NUM>. The plurality of apertures <NUM> are shown varying in density. This means that there may be more holes per unit surface area in some places versus other places. In the provided example, the number apertures <NUM> increases in the area of the torso but may decrease in the area of the user's head and feet. Other variations or spacings may be utilized and for example, the density of apertures <NUM> may be consistent. Further, one skilled in the art will realize that where two layers of foam are positioned above the air distribution material, the apertures <NUM> will extend through both layers of foam, for example layers <NUM>, <NUM>. Further, the aperture <NUM> sizes may vary or may be the same as previously described. The apertures <NUM> may be sized based upon any of, but not limited to, the following: the desired flow rate at the upper surface <NUM> (<FIG>) of the mattress <NUM> and/or the amount of air pressure needed to pass through the apertures <NUM>, <NUM> and/or the number of apertures provided, and/or air mover flow rates and pressure.

The body support foam layer <NUM> and the foam envelope layer <NUM> may be formed of relatively highly resilient flexible cellular foam. These foams may be the same type of foam or may be differing types of foams from the examples provided. Further the foams may have differing characteristics, such as flexibility or stiffness, and other characteristics. Either or both layers may be used in order to direct air flow and provide a desired feel for the user.

The layers may be affixed by any suitable means known in the art. Layers may be sprayed-on, injection molded, extruded, coextruded, laminated, and the like. In several examples, layers may be stapled, tacked, welded, laminated, mechanically affixed via friction or interference fit, adhered via an adhesive, a glue, a cement, or other material with adhesive properties, stitched, affixed via hook and loop fastener, a zipper, a Dennison-style tag, snaps, and/or other reversible means, and combinations thereof. For purposes of present examples, various layers may be joined with adhesives including glues, cements and other materials with adhesive properties. In another example, a layer may further include an adhesive. In some example, the adhesive may be located at interfaces between the layers. Adhesives that may be used in the present disclosure include any adherent materials or fasteners known in the art. Specific examples of adhesives include hot melt, water-based, and pressure-sensitive adhesives, fire-resistant adhesives, and mixtures thereof. Further, a layer and/or an adhesive may further include a silica, a metallic layer, a plastic, such as an acrylic, a modacrylic, a polyolefin, a latex, a polyurethane, and combinations and/or blends thereof. In addition, a layer may further include biocides, preservatives, odor blocking agents, scents, pigments, dyes, stain guards, antistatic agents, anti-soiling agents, water-proofing agents, moisture wicking agents, and the like, as are known in the art.

Referring now to <FIG>, an exploded section detailed view of the air distribution assembly <NUM> is depicted away from the other layers of the mattress <NUM>. The section view more clearly depicts the arrangement of parts in a semi-assembled state. The air distribution material <NUM> is exploded from the cavity <NUM> of the flat foam layer <NUM>. Within this flat foam layer <NUM>, the cavity <NUM> allows for positioning of the reticulated foam, for example that may define the air distribution material <NUM>, according to some examples. The envelope material <NUM> is also depicted which limits the air flow from moving in any direction except through the air distribution material <NUM>. As the air flow moves through the air distribution material <NUM>, the air flow moves horizontally between the head and feet ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the mattress <NUM>, moves laterally and moves upwardly toward the foam envelope layer <NUM> which may or may not include an envelope material <NUM>. Once pressure builds in the cavity <NUM>, the air may also move through the apertures <NUM> and subsequently to the aligned apertures <NUM>.

Air flow may be limited and directed through the layer <NUM> by placing the envelope material <NUM> along a bottom surface thereof and allowing the apertures <NUM> to extend through the foam envelope layer <NUM> and through the envelope material <NUM>. With air flow limited by the envelope material <NUM> and the envelope material <NUM> within the cavity <NUM>, the only pathway for the air flow is through the plurality of apertures <NUM> of the foam envelop layer <NUM>. The apertures are aligned with apertures <NUM> (<FIG>) on the body support layer <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, a section view of the mattress <NUM> is depicted to further aid in describing the ventilation air flow through the mattress <NUM>. The mattress <NUM> includes the previously described layers of convoluted foam <NUM> and the air distribution assembly <NUM> comprising the flat foam layer <NUM> and the foam envelope layer <NUM> and the body support layer <NUM> above the air distribution assembly <NUM>. As shown in the section view, a conduit aperture <NUM> is formed in the convoluted foam layer <NUM>. The conduit aperture <NUM> extends through the convoluted foam layer <NUM> and into the air distribution assembly <NUM> so that air moving through a conduit <NUM>. The aperture <NUM> extends into the flat foam layer <NUM> to provide flow communication to the air distribution material <NUM> of the air distribution assembly <NUM>. As depicted in the drawing, the layers <NUM> and <NUM> have a plurality of aligned air flow apertures <NUM>, <NUM> which are in flow communication with the air distribution material <NUM>, which according to some examples may be a reticulated foam with the apertures <NUM> through the top two layers aligned and in flow communication, air moves to the top surface <NUM> of the body support layer to provide air flow around the user. The apertures <NUM>, <NUM> are shown in a substantially vertical orientation but may be disposed at an angle relative to a vertical direction as well.

The conduit <NUM> may include a flexible material such as a corrugated tubing to allow for some bending, for example due to the mattress <NUM> being adjustable in some examples. However, the conduit should exhibit enough strength to not crush inwardly when the surrounding foam flexes during movement of the mattress and foundation. The conduit <NUM> may also comprise at least one flange <NUM>, <NUM> at a lower end and an upper end of the air distribution assembly <NUM>. The flanges <NUM>, <NUM> may function to retain the conduit <NUM> in position within the foam. The flanges may also provide for a specific location for connection of the fan assembly <NUM> (<FIG>) at the lower end. The flanges <NUM>, <NUM> may capture the conduit <NUM> within the one or more layers of the mattress <NUM>. According to the instant application, the mattress <NUM> may comprise one or more of these conduit assemblies so as to provide air flow to one or more areas of the mattress <NUM>. For example, and with reference to <FIG>, two areas of the mattress <NUM> may be serviced with ventilation air by using two fan assemblies <NUM> and two conduits <NUM> such shown in <FIG> which are in flow communication with conduits <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, a lower perspective view of the foundation <NUM> is shown. Various support members <NUM> are depicted extending between the outer members of the frame <NUM> of the bed assembly <NUM>. The lower perspective view is provided to depict the mounting of the air mover on the frame <NUM>. The conduit aperture <NUM> is also shown disposed through the deck <NUM> so that when the conduit is connected to the fan assembly <NUM>, the conduit <NUM> may pass through the deck <NUM> and to the mattress <NUM> above (now shown). The outer frame members may also include a fabric and/or padding to improve the appearance of the foundation <NUM>. The frame <NUM> is fixed and the deck <NUM> is shown with fixed and movable portions wherein the movable portion moves relative to the frame <NUM> to adjust the mattress position or orientation. The fan assembly <NUM> is shown below the fixed deck portion according to some non-limiting examples.

Referring now to <FIG>, a side view of the foundation <NUM> is depicted with the fan assembly <NUM> shown through the deck <NUM>. The fan assembly <NUM> includes an air mover <NUM> and a connector <NUM> which is shown extending through the deck aperture <NUM>. The deck aperture <NUM> may be a hole and /or additionally may be defined by a collar which provides a clean opening through the upper surface of the deck <NUM>. The air mover <NUM> may comprise an inlet, at the right hand side as depicted and an outlet at the left hand side, wherein the air is drawn into the inlet, accelerated and pushed though the outlet. These positions may vary. The air mover <NUM> may also comprise a filter housing or other air cleaning structure to remove certain contaminants from the air flow passing through the fan assembly <NUM>. The air filter housing may be disposed at the inlet of the air mover <NUM> to provide filtered air to the outlet and conduit <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, a detailed side section view of the fan assembly <NUM> is depicted. The air mover <NUM> is shown adjacent to an air filter housing <NUM>. The air filter housing <NUM> defines an opening wherein ventilation air is pulled through the filter <NUM> and into the air mover <NUM>. On the left side of the air mover <NUM>, is a connector <NUM>. On the left side of the air mover <NUM> is an air mover outlet connector <NUM> which is connected and provides flow communication with the flexible conduit <NUM>. The flexible conduit <NUM> may be a corrugated material that allows for bending thereof at a <NUM> degree turn. The flexible conduit <NUM> turns from a horizontal flow path to a vertical flow path and is connected additionally to the connector <NUM>, which is shown passing through a collar <NUM> in the deck <NUM>. The upper connector <NUM> is additionally then connected to the lower flange <NUM> (<FIG>) of the conduit assembly extending through the mattress <NUM>. This allows for air flow pulled in through the air intake and optional air filter <NUM> through the air mover <NUM> and through the flexible conduit to the mattress <NUM>. Within the mattress <NUM>, the air is dispersed through the air distribution assembly <NUM> and specifically the air distribution material <NUM> before passage through the foam layers <NUM>, <NUM> above the air distribution material <NUM> (<FIG>).

Still further, aroma-therapy cartridges and/or filters may also be utilized. For example, in nonlimiting examples, aroma may be added to a filter material in order to provide a pleasing aroma to the filtered air. The filter may be disposed in the assembly containing the fan, pump, or the like, or may be disposed in the ducting extending toward or into the mattress. It may be desirable to ensure that the filter and aroma cartridge may be easily accessible for maintenance or exchange. The cartridge may be disposed on the suction (upstream) side of the air mover, or may be disposed on the pressurized (downstream) side. The filter may be of various ranges of filtering capability and may remove pollen, particulate and/or dust mites and related materials.

Referring now to <FIG>, a schematic view of the system utilized to ventilate the bed assembly <NUM> is shown. In the schematic view, a controller <NUM> is depicted which is shown in wired connection to various other service facilities for the adjustable bed <NUM>. The controller <NUM> is connected to the air movers <NUM> to provide power and control signals to the air movers <NUM>. Additionally, the controller <NUM> may be in communication with actuators <NUM> for movement of the deck <NUM> (<FIG>) to positions in order to raise the head end of the bed or the feet end of the bed. Additionally, or alternatively, the actuators <NUM> may be used for movement of the foot portion of the bed. Still further, two actuators <NUM> may be utilized as shown to move both head and foot ends of the bed assembly <NUM>. A power supply <NUM> is shown electrically connected to the controller <NUM>. The power supply <NUM> may be an AC power supply which converts power to DC, according to some examples, for powering of the DC fans of the air movers <NUM> or the actuators <NUM>. Additionally, the controller <NUM> may provide for one or more USB chargers <NUM> so that a smart phone, smart pad or other electrical devices may be charged while the user is sleeping or alternatively while the user is in bed and may be, for example reading or listening to music.

Optionally, the bed assembly may also include vibrator motors <NUM> which are in electrical communication with the controller <NUM>. The vibration motors <NUM> may provide a massaging function for the bed assembly <NUM>. The vibrating motors <NUM> may be disposed on two sides of the bed, relative to the longitudinal axis LO (<FIG>), according to some embodiments. Further, the vibrating motors <NUM> may work together or may be controlled individually. While two motors <NUM> are depicted, the bed assembly may be broken up into additional zones wherein at least one vibrating motor may be provided for each zone. The vibrating motors <NUM> may be controlled in a simple manner of on/off functionality or additionally may be varied in speed to provide varying amounts of vibration and massage function.

Optional features such as under bed lighting <NUM> may be provided and powered for use. Numerous optional features may be provided and the descriptions provided herein should not be considered exhaustive.

The controller <NUM> may be controlled by a wired remote control or a wireless remote control. The wireless remote may be connected by radio frequency (RF), infrared, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, zigbee or other wireless communication standards. The remote may be a standalone remote control with hard keys or buttons, touch screen or some combination. Further, the wireless remote controller may be defined by smart phone or smart pad with an app which connects by some communication standard to the controller <NUM>. Accordingly, the controller <NUM> may have some feature.

The controller <NUM> may also have a battery backup system. The battery back-up may be charged by an electrical connection which powers the controller <NUM>. The battery back-up may also provide that the system may be controlled for at least some period of time while power service may be unavailable.

Referring now to <FIG>, an exploded perspective view of a mattress cover <NUM> which allows for passage of air flow from the mattress. It is desirable to not impede, or at least limit impedance, of air flow from the mattress upper surface. The instant mattress cover <NUM> embodiments limit the plugging of holes in the mattress so that air can continue to flow providing a ventilating function from the mattress.

The cover <NUM> comprises a border <NUM> and an inner panel <NUM> which is formed of a bi-directional stretch spacer fabric <NUM>. The spacer fabric <NUM> may be formed of a bi-directionally stretched material, meaning it is stretchable in two dimensions, such as the horizontal directions, for example head to toe and laterally, side to side relative a bed. The spacer fabric <NUM> may be formed of an upper layer 176a and a lower layer 176b as shown in the detail view. Further, the fabric <NUM> is also formed with a three-dimensional cross-structure between the layers 176a, 176b which provides a volume or air space through which air can flow. The third dimension (vertically as depicted) is of limited stretch capability as compared to the horizontal directions.

The spacer fabric <NUM> may include a woven, or knit material, and/or may include extruded plastic materials including polyethylene, polyester, other plastics or combinations of any of these or others. According to some embodiments one of the layers 176a, 176b may be formed of polyester, and spandex. In some embodiments these materials may be formed of the same or differing thread sizes and in other embodiments multiple sizes of one or more materials may be utilized. For example, in the illustrative, non-limiting embodiment, the layer may contain <NUM> Denier polyester with <NUM> Denier and <NUM> Denier spandex. The other of the layers 176a, 176b may be <NUM> Denier polyester and a <NUM> Denier spandex. The three-dimensional cross structure shown extending between layers 176a, 176b may be a <NUM> Denier polyester, for non-limiting example. The pattern may be random or may be repeating or some combination of fibers. Additionally, the spacer fabric <NUM> is resilient to allow a repeated uses without degradation and losing its thickness dimension. Thus, the material maintain the volume between the layers 176a, 176b to allow adequate airflow therethrough. One non- limiting example of this spacer fabric <NUM> is commercially marketed by Global Textile Alliance of China.

According to one non-limiting example, the spacer fabric may be comprised as follows:.

The spacer fabric <NUM> precludes blockage of the holes in the upper surface of the body support cushion, thereby facilitating ventilation. Thus a breathable surface is provided and air flow is not impeded when a user lays on the mattress. The stretch spacer fabric <NUM> improves cooling performance for the air flow, reduction of relative humidity and improved dry thermal resistance. Additionally, the spacer fabric <NUM> may reduce pressure on the user.

Still further, the spacer fabric <NUM> may be treated with or finished with various agents and/or topical treatments including but not limited to wetting agents, pH buffers and antimicrobial agents. Further the spacer fabric may have a desirable finished appearance by way of desired color or pattern(s) formed by the knitting process.

The border <NUM> and the inner panel <NUM> may be formed together as a single part. In some embodiments, the border and inner panel <NUM> may have a fastener or closure, for example a zipper arrangement, to allow for placement of the mattress within the border <NUM> and inner panel <NUM>. A second fastener or closure may be used to attach a top panel <NUM>.

It is desirable to reduce the dry thermal resistance of the mattress cover <NUM>. This allows air pushed through the mattress to exit the cover <NUM> more readily, improving the function of the ventilation system, and performing less like an insulator.

Calculated in SI units for each zone by the formula:
<MAT>.

In this first example, a prior art cover was provided and dry thermal resistance was measured both without the spacer fabric <NUM> and with the spacer fabric. As shown in the results, there is a significant decrease in the dry thermal resistance when the spacer material is added to the prior art cover.

In this second example, the instant cover materials were provided both without and with the spacer material. Comparing cover to cover, the cover of the second example has a lower dry thermal resistance than the prior art version of the first example. Further, as with the first example, addition of the space fabric <NUM> makes a significant change in the dry thermal resistance of the cover. Further, in both examples, the increase in thickness of the spacer fabric <NUM> improves the dry thermal resistance as well. This is due to the reduced blockage of holes in the mattress.

Disposed above the inner panel <NUM> is a top panel <NUM> which is formed of two materials. The upper portion of the top panel <NUM> is formed in some embodiments of an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). The top panel <NUM> may also have an optional topical fire resistant chemistry. The fire resistant topical may be, according to some embodiments defined by, but is not limited, organic-inorganic nitrogen-phosphorous based topical chemistries. The fire resistant chemistry may alternatively include but is not limited to an encapsulated fire retardant treatment for example, made by using a melamine cyanurate encapsulating shell, using an alcohol C11 ethoxylated surfactant for dispersion, and using a Phosphate based fire retardant polymer.

Knitted on a lower surface of the top panel is a fire resistant (FR) modacrylic yarn layer <NUM>. The FR yarn layer <NUM> is desirable in part because the introduction of air flow from the mattress requires improved fire resistance. The FR modacrylic yarn layer <NUM> provides improved fire resistance and is knit to the lower surface of the upper portion of the top panel <NUM>. The fire resistant topical chemistry provides additional fire resistance in combination with the FR modacrylic yarn <NUM>.

One or more of the layers of the cover <NUM> may also comprise phase change material to provide improved cool feeling for a limited time. The amount of phase change material in the one or more layers may be the same or may differ.

While several inventive embodiments have been described and illustrated herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the invention as defined in the claims. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the inventive teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific inventive embodiments described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, inventive embodiments may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Inventive embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. In addition, any combination within the limitation of the appended claims of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the inventive scope of the present disclosure.

" The phrase "and/or," as used herein in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean "either or both" of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases.

Only the transitional phrases "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of" shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively, as set forth in the United States Patent Office Manual of Patent Examining Procedures.

Claim 1:
A cover (<NUM>) for a ventilated body support cushion, comprising:
a top panel (<NUM>) having an upper layer ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and a lower layer fire resistant yarn knit to said upper layer;
a border (<NUM>) disposed beneath said top panel (<NUM>) and having an inner panel (<NUM>), said inner panel (<NUM>) including a bi-directionally stretched spacer fabric (<NUM>), said spacer fabric (<NUM>) further comprising a three dimensional cross-structure; and,
said spacer fabric (<NUM>) improving ventilation by reducing dry thermal resistance.