US20140318586A1

US20140318586A1 - Furniture Cover Devices and Methods of Use

Info

Publication number: US20140318586A1
Application number: US14/244,654
Authority: US
Inventors: Patricia J. Watson
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2013-04-30
Filing date: 2014-04-03
Publication date: 2014-10-30
Also published as: CA2848830A1

Abstract

A cover device configured to be used in combination with a furniture piece. The device is selectively positionable between a deployed orientation and one or more stowed orientations. In the deployed orientation, a cover of the device extends over the furniture piece and forms an interior space sized for a user. The cover shelters the interior space from noise and light, and may also insulate the interior space to control an interior temperature. In the stowed orientations, the cover is positioned in proximity to the furniture piece in a manner of the user's choosing and may be configured to have an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Application 61/817,753 filed on Apr. 30, 2013 and entitled Furniture Piece Cover Device and Method of Use. This application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Furniture pieces come in a variety of different shapes and sizes. Examples include beds, sofas, and chairs. The furniture pieces may be used for variety of different purposes, such as sleeping, sitting, working on a computer, and reading.
There are many contexts in which a cover that extends over the furniture piece and the user would be desirable. These may include to keep the user warm, to prevent air drafts and/or outside light from reaching the user (such as when the user is sleeping), to reduce outside noise from reaching the user, and to provide privacy to the user.
Previous attempts have been made to provide covers to furniture pieces. However, each of these attempts had meaningful drawbacks. Some covers are not effective in accomplishing their desired function. This may include that light, noise, cold air, and/or air drafts were able to reach the user within the cover, and the cover provided little-to-no privacy for the user. Another issue with previous covers is they were aesthetically unattractive. This may include that the cover looked bad when deployed over the piece and/or when the cover was removed from the piece.
Previous covers also failed because of a lack of adjustability. This may include when they lack of an exit route for the user. Previous covers further did not provide for a stowed position when not in use. These covers required the user to remove the cover from the furniture piece and store it away (e.g., in a closet or underneath the furniture piece). Otherwise, the cover was aesthetically unpleasing as there was no other way for the cover to be stowed. This caused the user to either leave the cover over the furniture at all times, or fail to use the cover because the set-up was difficult and/or time consuming.

SUMMARY

The present application is directed to a device for covering a furniture piece. The device is positionable in a deployed orientation that extends over the furniture piece and forms an isolated interior space for the user. The device is also positionable in one or more stowed orientations that are located in proximity to the furniture piece. The stowed orientations provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance that blends in with the furniture piece in a manner of the user's choosing, such that the device does not need to be removed when not in the deployed orientation. Further, the device provides for a straight-forward process of moving between the deployed and stowed orientations.
One embodiment is directed to a cover device for a furniture piece that is positionable between a deployed orientation that extends over the furniture piece and a stowed orientation. The cover device includes a cover sheet with a length measured between opposing first and second longitudinal ends and a width measured between opposing first and second lateral ends. The cover sheet is divided along the width between a top section at a central portion of the width, a first lateral side between the first lateral end and the top section, and a second lateral side between the second lateral end and the top section. A connector is attached to the top section of the cover sheet and is spaced away from each of the first and second lateral sides. A hanger engages with the connector to position at least a portion of the top section vertically above the furniture piece in the deployed orientation. A tensioning element is attached to the top section of the cover sheet and is spaced away from each of the first and second lateral sides. The tensioning element is configured to apply a tensioning force to the top section of the cover sheet in the deployed orientation without applying a force along the first and second lateral sides.
The tensioning element may be a rod that is attached to the cover sheet.
The tensioning element may include at least one elastic strap attached to the cover sheet and may include an outer end with a fastener to attach to the furniture piece.
The tensioning element may be positioned at the first longitudinal end of the cover sheet and the connector may be positioned at the second longitudinal end of the cover sheet.
A slit may be positioned in the first lateral side of the cover sheet that extends inward from the first lateral end towards the top section.
A seam may connect the top section to one of the first and second lateral sides.
A zipper may connect the top section to one of the first and second lateral sides, and the zipper may be configured for removing the lateral side from the top section.
The connector may be positioned at an intermediate position long the length of the top section between the first and second longitudinal ends.
Another embodiment is directed to a cover device for a furniture piece that is positionable between a deployed orientation that extends over the furniture piece and a stowed orientation. The cover device includes a cover sheet with a central section that extends between first and second ends, a first lateral section that extends between the first and second ends, and a second lateral section that extends between the first and second ends. The first and second lateral sections are positioned on opposing lateral sides of the central section. A hanger engages with the central section to position at least a portion of the central section vertically above the furniture piece in the deployed orientation. A tensioning element is attached to the central section away from each of the first and second lateral sections. The tensioning element is configured to apply a force to just the central section to reduce deflection of the central section in the deployed orientation. Each of the first and second lateral sections are isolated from the force to hang downward from the central section in the deployed orientation.
The cover sheet may include a total of four sides.
The cover sheet may include a total of five sides.
The tensioning element may include at least one elastic strap attached to the central section of the cover sheet.
The tensioning element may include weighted elements positioned along a width of the central section.
An enclosure may be formed along the central section of the cover sheet with the enclosure sized to contain the tensioning element.
The hanger may be attached to the second end of the cover sheet and the tensioning element may be attached to the first end of the cover sheet.
Another embodiment is directed to a cover device for a furniture piece that is positionable between a deployed orientation that extends over the furniture piece and a stowed orientation. The cover device includes a cover sheet with a length measured between opposing first and second longitudinal ends and a width measured between opposing first and second lateral ends. The cover sheet is divided along the width between a first section and a second section. A connector is attached to the first section of the cover sheet and is spaced away from the second section. A hanger engages with the connector to position at least a portion of the first section vertically above the furniture piece in the deployed orientation. A tensioning element is attached to the first section of the cover sheet and is spaced away from the second section with the tensioning element configured to apply a tensioning force to the first section of the cover sheet in the deployed orientation without applying a force to the second section.
The second section may be isolated from the tensioning force to hang downward from the first section in the deployed orientation.
The various aspects of the various embodiments may be used alone or in any combination, as is desired.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a device in a deployed orientation extending over a furniture piece.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a device in a first stowed orientation.

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a device in a second stowed orientation.

FIG. 3 is a schematic side view of the device of FIG. 1 in the deployed orientation.

FIG. 4 is a schematic side view of the device of FIG. 2 in the stowed orientation.

FIG. 5 is a schematic top view of a cover, a tensioning element, and a hanger.

FIG. 6 is a schematic top view of a cover.

FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view of a cover in a deployed orientation.

FIG. 8 is a sectional view of the cover of FIG. 7 cut along line VIII-VIII.

FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of a cover in a deployed orientation.

FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a cover in a deployed orientation.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a device in a deployed orientation.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a device in a deployed orientation.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a device in a deployed orientation.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a device in a deployed orientation.

FIG. 15 is a side view of a bracket of a hanger.

FIG. 16 is a side view of a two-piece bracket supporting an elongated member and a weight.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a device in a stowed orientation.

FIG. 18 is a side schematic view of a device configured to be attached to a ceiling.

FIG. 19 is a front schematic view of the device of FIG. 18.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present application is directed to a furniture cover device configured to be used in combination with a furniture piece. The device is selectively positionable between a deployed orientation and one or more stowed orientations. In the deployed orientation, a cover of the device extends over the furniture piece and forms an interior space sized for one or more users. The cover shelters the interior space from one or more aspects including noise, light, and air drafts. The cover may also insulate the interior space to control an interior temperature. In the stowed orientations, the cover is configured to have an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
The device 10 is configured to create a partially or fully enclosed interior space above a furniture piece 100 when in the deployed orientation. The device 10 generally includes a cover sheet 20 (hereinafter cover) sized to extend over the furniture piece 100. The cover 20 includes opposing first and second longitudinal ends spaced apart along the length of the furniture piece 100, and opposing first and second lateral sides spaced across along the width. The device 10 also includes a hanger 40 configured to be attached to a vertical support 110 above the furniture piece 100. The sheet 20 may be configured to be attached to the hanger 40, or may include a connector 30 to attach to the hanger 40. The device 10 also includes a tensioning element 90 attached to the cover 20 to reduce deflection between the cover first and second ends when the cover is deployed, thus enlarging the interior enclosed space.
FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of the device 10 in a deployed orientation extending over a furniture piece 100. FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate this device 10 in different stowed orientations each in proximity to the furniture piece 100. The stowed orientations may include the cover 20 positioned along a vertical support 110 in proximity to the furniture piece 100 as illustrated in FIG. 2A, or positioned on the top of the furniture piece as illustrated in FIG. 2B. In the various stowed orientations, the cover 20 has an aesthetically pleasing appearance. The user is able to stow the cover 20 in a variety of different orientations depending upon their needs and/or the aesthetic appearance that they desire.
The cover 20 is sized to extend over the furniture piece 100 in the deployed orientation. In this embodiment, the hanger 40 is attached to a support 110 (which in this embodiment is a vertical wall in proximity to the furniture piece 100) and configured to position a portion of the cover 20 above the furniture piece 100 in the deployed orientation. As illustrated in the deployed orientation in FIG. 1, the cover 20 forms an interior space over the furniture piece 100 that is sized for one or more users. In the stowed orientation of FIG. 2, the cover 20 is not in use and is positioned away from the furniture piece 100. The cover 20 is arranged in an aesthetically pleasing manner such that it can be left until re-deployed. Further, the device 10 is configured for a straight-forward movement to change between the deployed and stowed orientations.
FIG. 3 illustrates a side schematic view of a device 10 in the deployed orientation extending over the furniture piece 100. The cover 20 is sized to extend over the furniture piece 100 and form the interior space 50 sized to receive the user who is positioned on the furniture piece 100. The hanger 40 is attached to the support 110 at a location vertically above the furniture piece 100 to position the cover 20 over the furniture piece 100 and form the interior space 50. The tensioning element 90 is attached to the cover 20 to apply a force to pull a central portion of the cover 20 away from the hanger 40. In this embodiment, the tensioning element 90 is an elongated rod that is attached to the cover 20. The tensioning element 90 applies a force to a central portion of the cover 20. This force pulls this section of the cover 20 tight to enlarge the interior space 50. Lateral sections on opposing sides of the central portion do not receive the force of the tensioning element 90 and therefore hang downward on opposing sides of the furniture piece 100. This embodiment also includes a portion of the central section hanging downward from the hanger 40 to extend behind the furniture piece 100 (i.e., at the head of the furniture piece 100 with the tensioning element 90 at the foot of the furniture piece 100).
FIG. 4 illustrates a side schematic view of a device 10 in a stowed orientation. In this embodiment of the stowed orientation, the cover 20 remains attached to the hanger 40. The stowed orientation locates the cover 20 at an end of the furniture piece 100 in an aesthetically pleasing manner. Although a majority of the cover 20 is positioned away from the piece 100, a portion may still extend over the furniture piece 100 depending upon the position of the hanger 40 and the size of the cover 20. In one or more embodiments, an entirety of the cover 20 is positioned on the furniture piece 100 in the stowed orientation.
The cover 20 is sized to extend over the entirety of a portion of the furniture piece 100. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the cover 20 includes a length L measured between longitudinal ends 21, 22, and a width W measured between opposing lateral sides 23. The cover 20 may be sized relative to the furniture piece 100 such that a perimeter edge extends below a top 101 of the furniture piece 100 in the deployed orientation. The amount that the cover 20 extends below the top 101 may vary. In one embodiment, the cover 20 extends to the floor underneath the furniture piece 100. Other embodiments may include the cover 20 having a different size such that one or more sections of the perimeter edge are positioned above the top 101.
The cover 20 includes a central section 85 that extends along the length between the first and second ends 21, 22. The central section 85 is the portion of the cover 20 that aligns with the top 101 of the furniture piece 100 in the deployed orientation. The central section 85 may have a variety of different widths depending upon the size of the furniture piece 100. A first lateral section 86 is positioned on a first lateral side of the central section 85. This section 86 extends between the first lateral side 23 and the central section 85. A second lateral section 86 is positioned on the opposing second lateral side of the central section 85 and extends between the second lateral side 23 and the central section 85. In the embodiment of FIG. 5, each lateral section 86, 87 has the same width. Other embodiments may include different widths.
In one or more embodiments, the different sections 85, 86, 87 are separated by dividers 70. The dividers 70 may include a variety of different configurations, including but not limited to seams, adhesives, mechanical fasteners, and combinations thereof. The dividers 70 may provide for selectively removing one or more of the sections from the cover 20. In one embodiment, one or more of the dividers 70 are zippers that provide for selectively attaching the one or more sections. In one or more embodiments, the different sections 85, 86, 87 are not separated by dividers.
In one or more embodiments, sheet 20 includes a substantially rectangular shape as illustrated in FIG. 5. FIG. 5 includes the sheet 20 in an open configuration in which it is generally planar. Sheet 20 may also include different shapes in the open configuration. In one or more embodiments, sheet 20 may be shaped to provide for a fitted shaped when deployed. FIG. 6 includes an embodiment with the central section 85 including a greater length than the lateral sections 86, 87. Various other shapes and sizes may also be used to conform to the furniture piece 100 and to adjust a size and aspects of the interior space 50.
FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate an embodiment of the cover 20 in a deployed orientation. In this embodiment, the central section 85 is further divided into a top section 71, a foot section 72, and a back section 73. Opposing lateral sections 86, 87 are also positioned on opposite sides of the top section 71. In one or more embodiments, each of the sections is substantially planar when the cover is in the deployed orientation to extend completely around the furniture piece 100 is surrounded. In one or more embodiments, the dividers 70 provide for attaching the sections together at various angular positions. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the first lateral section 86 is at an angle β relative to the top section 71 and the second lateral section 87 is at an angle α relative to the top section 71. In this embodiment, each of angles α and β are about 90°. Other embodiments may include different angles. This “fitted” configuration may provide for the cover 20 to more specifically match the dimensions of the furniture piece 100.
The cover 20 may be constructed as a single continuous piece, or from two or more separate pieces that are attached together. In one or more embodiments, each section of the cover 20 is constructed from a separate piece that is connected together at the one or more dividers 70. The different pieces may be made from the same or different materials. The dividers 70 may provide for selectively removing one or more of the sections from the cover 20. In one embodiment, one or more of the dividers 70 are zippers that provide for selectively attaching the one or more sections.
FIGS. 7 and 8 include the cover 20 having five sides (i.e., top section 71, foot section 72, back section 73, and lateral sections 86, 87). Other embodiments may include different numbers of sides. FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment with four sides (i.e., the central section includes a top section 71 and foot section 72 without a head section). FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment with three sides. Various other embodiments may include different numbers of sections. Further, the different sections and sides may be folded in various configurations in both the deployed and stowed orientations.
In one embodiment of manufacturing the cover 20, the user provides the dimensions of their furniture piece 100. The cover 20 is then constructed to be tailored to these dimensions.
In another embodiment, the cover 20 does not include dividers 70. The cover 20 extends over the bed 100 in the deployed position and generally folds about the furniture piece 100 to conform to the dimensions. The central section 85 extends over the top of the furniture piece 100, and the lateral sections 86, 87 extend over the opposing sides.
The cover 20 may be constructed from a variety of different materials. Examples include but are not limited to cotton sheeting, polyester fleece, plastic sheeting, elastic sheeting (e.g., Spandex material), flannel, gauze, vinyl, and leather. The cover 20 may be a single ply, or may include two or more plies. The cover 20 may be constructed from the same material throughout, or may include one or more different sections with different constructions. The cover 20 may be opaque to prevent light from penetrating into the interior space 50 when in the deployed orientation. The cover 20 may also be constructed to prevent or reduce exterior sounds from being audible within the interior space 50 when in the deployed orientation.
The tensioning element 90 is attached to the central section 85 of the cover 20 and causes a force to be applied to the central section 85 to reduce deflection in the deployed orientation thus enlarging the interior space 50. The force applied by the tensioning element 90 is not exerted on the lateral sections 86, 87. Therefore, these sections 86, 87 hang downward from the central section 85 via gravity to extend around the furniture piece 100.
The tensioning element 90 may include a single element (as illustrated in FIG. 11), or may include multiple elements. In embodiments with multiple elements, each element may be the same or different. The tensioning element 90 may also allow the cover 20 to be draped or folded on or near the furniture piece 100 when not in use.
The tensioning element 90 may be connected to the cover 20 at a variety of locations along the central section 85, including the first end 21, second end 22, and intermediate locations. The tensioning element 90 may comprise various configurations, including but not limited to a weight, such as a weighted rod or heavy fabric strip, soft or foldable elements that stiffen when the cover 20 is in use (e.g., shape-memory polymers, current-induced stiffeners such as electrorheological materials), elastic or nonelastic straps, fabric sections, elastic bands, clips, hooks, and grommets. In one or more embodiments, the tensioning element 90 is attached to the cover 20. Other embodiments may include the cover 20 having a receptacle 92 sized to receive the tensioning element 90. In one embodiment as schematically illustrated in FIG. 11, the cover 20 includes a sleeve 92 sized to receive a weight (FIG. 11 includes an elongated rod).
In one or more embodiments, the tensioning element 90 is attached at or near the first end 21 of the central section 85 of the cover 20. The tensioning element 90 acts to pull the central section 85 away from the hanger 40 in the deployed orientation. This prevents the cover 20 from sagging over the furniture piece 100 and thereby increases the volume of the interior space 50. FIG. 11 illustrates one embodiment with the tensioning element 90 attached at the first end 21. In this embodiment, the tensioning element 90 is a rod that fits within a sleeve 92 in the cover 20. The rod extends across the width W of the central section 85.
The tensioning element 90 may also include one or more elastic members that can be stretched in the deployed orientation to apply a force to the cover 20. FIG. 12 illustrates tensioning straps 91 positioned at the end 21 of the central section 85 of the cover 20. The straps 91 are configured to attach to the furniture piece 100. In one embodiment, the straps 91 include fasteners or hook-and-loop connectors that engage with corresponding devices on the furniture piece 100. Another embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13 includes tensioning straps 91 at the opposing end (i.e., second end 22) of the cover 20. The straps 91 are configured to engage with the hanger 40. In the various embodiments, the end of the cover 20 opposite from the straps 91 is configured to be held in position. This may include the end being attached to the hanger 40 (FIG. 12) or secured to the furniture piece 100 (FIG. 13). The cover 20 may be secured to the furniture piece 100 through various manners, including by being positioned under the furniture piece 100, and by fasteners on the cover 20 that connect to the furniture piece 100.
In one or more embodiments as illustrated in FIG. 14, the tensioning element 90 extends the length L of the cover 20. A first section of the element 90 may extend outward from the first end 21 of the cover 20 and a second section may extend outward from the second end 22. Each of the sections is configured to be secured to the furniture piece 100, hanger 40, vertical support 110, or other structure. In one or more embodiments, one or more elastic straps 91 extend the length of the cover 20.
In one or more embodiments, the cover 20 is constructed of a flexible material. In one specific embodiment, the cover 20 is constructed from Spandex. This provides for the cover 20 itself to be the tensioning element 90 such that it can be pulled tight in the deployed orientation. The cover 20 may be further configured to be secured on the opposing ends 21, 22 to the furniture piece 100, hanger 40, vertical support 110, or other structure.
The cover 20 may also include one or more vents 25 as illustrated in FIG. 3 for air to flow into and out of the interior space 50. The one or more vents 25 may have various sizes, and may be positioned at various locations about the cover 20. The vents 25 may further include closure devices 26, such as zippers, buttons, hooks, magnets, etc. to open and close the vents 25, and to adjust the size as necessary.
As illustrated in FIG. 7, the cover 20 may also include one or more slots 51 that extend inward from the perimeter edge to allow for users to move into and out of the interior space 50 when the device 10 is in the deployed orientation. This provides for user movement into and out of the interior space 50 without having to change the device 10 from the deployed to the stowed orientation. The slots 51 may be configured to be closed when the user is in the interior space 50. This may include forming the slots 51 such that opposing sides overlap. The slots 51 may also include one or more closure devices (e.g., zipper, buttons, magnets, hooks). In one or more embodiments, a separate flap is attached to the cover 20 in proximity to the slot 51. The flap is sized and configured to be positioned over the slot 50 to close the slot 50. The flap may also be moved away from the slot 50 as necessary.
The device 10 also includes a hanger 40 configured to position at least a portion of the cover 20 vertically above the furniture piece 100. The hanger 40 may also be configured to receive a second portion of the cover 20 in the stowed orientation to position the cover 20 relative to the furniture piece 100. The hanger 40 may be permanently or removably attached to the cover 20.
In one embodiment, the hanger 40 includes one or more brackets 41 and an elongated member 42. In one embodiment, the hanger 40 includes two brackets 41 that are spaced apart across the width W of the cover 20 with each being configured to receive the elongated member 42. Other embodiments may include three or more brackets 41. In the multi-bracket embodiments, each of the brackets 41 may include the same or different shapes and/or sizes. In another embodiment, the hanger 40 includes a single bracket 41.
FIG. 15 illustrates a bracket 41 that includes a first side 43 configured to be attached to the support 110. The first side 43 may include at least a portion that is substantially flat to mount against the support 110. Bracket 41 also includes one or more openings (not illustrated) to receive a fastener for attachment to the support 110. A first receptacle 44 may be configured to hold the elongated member 42 that is attached to the cover 20. Bracket 41 may also include a second receptacle 45 that may be configured to receive a portion of the cover 20 at or near the first end 21 in the stowed orientation. In one embodiment, this includes a portion of the cover 20 itself such as the first end 21. In one embodiment, the second receptacle 45 is configured to receive the tensioning element 90, such as an elongated rod. In another embodiment, the second receptacle 45 is configured to receive one or more elastic straps 91. The receptacles 44, 45 may include various shapes and sizes depending upon the different aspects of the cover 20. The receptacles 44, 45 may include an enclosed perimeter, as illustrated by the first receptacle 44 in FIG. 15, or may include an open perimeter as illustrated by the second receptacle 45. In one embodiment, the second receptacle 45 is open to facilitate receiving a portion of the cover 20 at or near the first end 21 when the user positions the device 10 in the stowed orientation. FIG. 15 includes the first receptacle 44 positioned vertically above the second receptacle 45. This configuration provides for an elongated member 42 that forms part of the hanger 40 to be positioned vertically above the tensioning element 90 in one of the stowed orientations. Other embodiments may include the first receptacle vertically below the second receptacle 45, or at the same level.
Hanger 40 may also include a variety of shapes and sizes. These may include but are not limited to one or more hooks, bands, ties, rings, etc.
FIG. 15 includes the bracket 41 being a single, unitary piece. Bracket 41 may also include multiple pieces as illustrated in the embodiment of FIG. 16. Bracket 41 includes a first piece 41 a configured to hold a first section of the cover 20, and a second piece 41 b to hold a second section. In one embodiment, the first piece 41 a is configured to hold a rod 42 that forms a part of the hanger 40, and the second piece 41 b configured to hold the tensioning element 90.
In one or more embodiments, hanger 40 includes an elongated member 42 that is attached to the cover 20. The elongated member 42 may be a rod configured to fit into the first receptacle 44 of the one or more brackets 41. Hanger 40 may also be configured to receive other forms of attachment.
The device 10 may also include a connector 30 attached to the cover 20 for connecting with the hanger 40. In one embodiment, the connector 30 includes one or more sleeves each sized to receive an elongated member 42 of the hanger 40 as illustrated in FIG. 16. The connector 30 may also be one or more mechanical fasteners such as but not limited to screws, nails, rivets, and clamps. Connector 30 may also include straps that extend from the cover 20. In one or more embodiments, these straps are the tensioning element 90. In other embodiments, the straps are separate from the tensioning element 90.
In one or more embodiments, the cover 20 is attached to the hanger 40 at or in proximity to the second end 22. In other embodiments, and intermediate section of the cover 20 is attached to the hanger 40. FIGS. 1, 2, 3, and 4 illustrate an embodiment with an intermediate section of the central section 85 attached to the hanger 40. The attachment to the hanger 40 divides the central section 85 into the top section 71 and the back section 73. The top section 71 extends from the connector 30 to the first end 21 (and is further divided into a foot section 72 due to contact with the furniture piece 100). The back section 73 extends from the connector 30 to the second end 22. In one embodiment as best illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, the back section 73 remains in the same position in both the stowed and deployed orientations. In one embodiment as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, the back section 73 hangs downward from the hanger 40 and is positioned at the head of the furniture piece 100.
In use, the device 10 may initially be in the stowed orientation when the user is not on the furniture piece 100. In one embodiment as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 4, the stowed orientation includes the cover 20 being positioned along a side of the furniture piece 100. The stowed orientation may resemble a head board of a furniture piece 100 or a curtain, both of which accentuate the room and/or hide the purpose of the device 10 from a viewer. The stowed orientation may also include the cover 20 being removed from the hanger 40 as will be explained below.
The user may subsequently move the device 10 to the deployed orientation. This may occur with the user being positioned on the furniture piece 100 or prior to the user being on the furniture piece 100. In one or more embodiments, this includes the user removing the portion of the cover 20 (which may include the tensioning element 90) from the hanger 40. The user then pulls the first end 21 such that the central section 85 extends over the top 101 of the furniture piece 100. The tensioning element 90 pulls the central section 85 in a direction away from the hanger 40. The user may also position the lateral sections 86, 87 of the cover 20 beyond the lateral sides of the furniture piece 100.
The interior space 50 is formed between the top 101 of the furniture piece 100 and the cover 20. This positioning minimizes or eliminates exterior light from reaching the interior space 50. In one embodiment, the cover 20 is positioned to contact against one or more of the ends and lateral sides of the furniture piece 100 to prevent any openings from forming between the cover 20 and bed 100.
When inside the interior space 50, the user may exit through a slot 51 that extends into the cover 20 from the perimeter edge. In one embodiment, the cover 20 includes a pair of slots 51 with one for each lateral section 86, 87.
The device 10 may be changed from the deployed orientation to the stowed orientation either while the user is positioned on the furniture piece 100 in the interior space 50, or after the user has exited the interior space 50. In one or more embodiments, the user lifts the cover 20 and attaches a section at or near the end 21 to the hanger 40. In one or more embodiments, this includes the user placing the tensioning element 90 in the one or more brackets 41. This may also include hooking a portion of the cover 20 onto the hanger 40.
In one or more embodiments, the cover 20 remains attached to the hanger 40 in the stowed orientation. FIGS. 2 and 4 illustrate one embodiment. Another embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 17 in which both the first and second ends 21, 22 of the cover 20 are directly attached to the hanger 40. In a similar embodiment, the second end 22 is attached to the hanger 40, and the first end 21 is detached. This may include the cover 20 in a folded arrangement below the hanger 40 at the head of the furniture piece 100.
In one or more embodiments, the cover 20 is detached from the hanger 40 in the stowed orientation. The cover 20 may then be folded or draped on or in close proximity to the furniture piece 100. This may include the cover 20 spread over the furniture piece, or folded at the head or foot of the furniture piece 100.
The tensioning element 90 may also be configured to attach a portion of the cover 20 to an overhead structure 112, such as the ceiling 112. FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate an embodiment with the furniture piece 100 positioned in a room with a side wall (i.e., support 110), a floor 111, and a ceiling 112. A tensioning element 90 is a connection structure attached to the ceiling 112 that includes a base and a cord. The cover 20 includes a connector 29 configured to attach with the cord of the connection structure 90. The connector 29 is positioned at or in proximity to the first end 21 of the cover 20. The connector 29 is attached to the structure 90 to position the first end of the cover upward away from the furniture piece 100 such that the interior space 50 is open to the exterior. In one or more embodiments, the overhead structure 112 is a bedpost, bed frame, portable frame, window support, or other like structure that is located below a ceiling of the room.
In one or more embodiments, the tensioning element 90 is configured to apply a tensioning force to the cover 20 when attached to the overhead structure 112. In one or more embodiments as illustrated in FIG. 18, an attachment 99 connected to the overhead structure 112 is positioned outward beyond a line L that is perpendicular to the overhead structure 112. This places the attachment 99 outward beyond an end of the cover 20 and beyond the connector 29. The structure 90 that extends between the attachment 99 and connector 29 is than at an acute angle relative to the overhead structure 112.
The various devices 10 disclosed in this application may be used with a variety of different furniture pieces 100. One embodiment includes the use of the device 10 with a bed 100. Device 10 may also be used with various other furniture pieces, including but not limited to a sleep platform, futon, sleeping bag, chair, sofa, table, bench, lounge chair, chaise lounge, and recliner.
The support 110 is positioned vertically above the top 101 of the furniture piece 100 and provides for positioning the cover 20 in the deployed orientation and some of the stowed orientations. In one embodiment, the support 110 is a wall positioned behind the piece 100. Support 110 may also include other structures, including but not limited to a headboard on a bed 100, bedpost, bed frame, portable frame, tree, and window.
In one embodiment, the cover 20 does not include a tensioning element 90. The configuration of the cover 20 is adequate to hold the position of the cover 20 in the deployed orientation and form the interior space 50.
Spatially relative terms such as “under”, “below”, “lower”, “over”, “upper”, and the like, are used for ease of description to explain the positioning of one element relative to a second element. These terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in addition to different orientations than those depicted in the figures. Further, terms such as “first”, “second”, and the like, are also used to describe various elements, regions, sections, etc. and are also not intended to be limiting. Like terms refer to like elements throughout the description.
As used herein, the terms “having”, “containing”, “including”, “comprising” and the like are open ended terms that indicate the presence of stated elements or features, but do not preclude additional elements or features. The articles “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural as well as the singular, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
The present invention may be carried out in other specific ways than those herein set forth without departing from the scope and essential characteristics of the invention. The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A cover device for a furniture piece that is positionable between a deployed orientation that extends over the furniture piece and a stowed orientation, the cover device comprising:

a cover sheet with a length measured between opposing first and second longitudinal ends and a width measured between opposing first and second lateral ends, the cover sheet being divided along the width between a top section at a central portion of the width, a first lateral side between the first lateral end and the top section, and a second lateral side between the second lateral end and the top section;

a connector attached to the top section of the cover sheet and being spaced away from each of the first and second lateral sides;

a hanger that engages with the connector to position at least a portion of the top section vertically above the furniture piece in the deployed orientation; and

a tensioning element attached to the top section of the cover sheet and being spaced away from each of the first and second lateral sides, the tensioning element configured to apply a tensioning force to the top section of the cover sheet in the deployed orientation without applying a force along the first and second lateral sides.

2. The cover device of claim 1, wherein the tensioning element is a rod that is attached to the cover sheet.

3. The cover device of claim 1, wherein the tensioning element comprises at least one elastic strap attached to the cover sheet and including an outer end with a fastener to attach to the furniture piece.

4. The cover device of claim 1, wherein the tensioning element is positioned at the first longitudinal end of the cover sheet and the connector is positioned at the second longitudinal end of the cover sheet.

5. The cover device of claim 1, further comprising a slit in the first lateral side of the cover sheet that extends inward from the first lateral end towards the top section.

6. The cover device of claim 1, further comprising a seam that connects the top section to one of the first and second lateral sides.

7. The cover device of claim 1, further comprising a zipper that connects the top section to one of the first and second lateral sides, the zipper configured for removing the lateral side from the top section.

8. The cover device of claim 1, wherein the connector is positioned at an intermediate position long the length of the top section between the first and second longitudinal ends.

9. A cover device for a furniture piece that is positionable between a deployed orientation that extends over the furniture piece and a stowed orientation, the cover device comprising:

a cover sheet with a central section that extends between first and second ends, a first lateral section that extends between the first and second ends, and a second lateral section that extends between the first and second ends, the first and second lateral sections being positioned on opposing lateral sides of the central section;

a hanger that engages with the central section to position at least a portion of the central section vertically above the furniture piece in the deployed orientation; and

a tensioning element attached to the central section away from each of the first and second lateral sections;

the tensioning element configured to apply a force to just the central section to reduce deflection of the central section in the deployed orientation;

each of the first and second lateral sections being isolated from the force to hang downward from the central section in the deployed orientation.

10. The cover device of claim 9, wherein the cover sheet includes a total of four sides.

11. The cover device of claim 9, wherein the cover sheet includes a total of five sides.

12. The cover device of claim 9, wherein the tensioning element comprises at least one elastic strap attached to the central section of the cover sheet.

13. The cover device of claim 9, wherein the tensioning element includes a plurality of weighted elements positioned along a width of the central section.

14. The cover device of claim 9, further comprising an enclosure formed along the central section of the cover sheet, the enclosure sized to contain the tensioning element.

15. The cover device of claim 9, wherein the hanger is attached to the second end of the cover sheet and the tensioning element is attached to the first end of the cover sheet.

16. A cover device for a furniture piece that is positionable between a deployed orientation that extends over the furniture piece and a stowed orientation, the cover device comprising:

a cover sheet with a length measured between opposing first and second longitudinal ends and a width measured between opposing first and second lateral ends, the cover sheet being divided along the width between a first section and a second section;

a connector attached to the first section of the cover sheet and being spaced away from the second section;

a hanger that engages with the connector to position at least a portion of the first section vertically above the furniture piece in the deployed orientation; and

a tensioning element attached to the first section of the cover sheet and being spaced away from the second section, the tensioning element configured to apply a tensioning force to the first section of the cover sheet in the deployed orientation without applying a force to the second section.

17. The cover device of claim 16, wherein the second section is isolated from the tensioning force to hang downward from the first section in the deployed orientation.