US20260026642A1

US20260026642A1 - Therapeutic mattress system and coverings

Info

Publication number: US20260026642A1
Application number: US19/350,163
Authority: US
Inventors: D. Lamont Smith
Original assignee: Tummytime Mattress LLC
Current assignee: Tummytime Mattress LLC
Priority date: 2018-09-10
Filing date: 2025-10-06
Publication date: 2026-01-29

Abstract

A sheet for use with a therapeutic mattress having at least one airway aperture through a mattress body. The sheet comprises a sheet body sized to cover an upper surface and side walls of the mattress body, and a periphery retention feature comprising at least one of an elastic band, corner pockets, straps, ties, or a zipper. One or more functional openings are disposed in the sheet body and positionable to overlie corresponding apertures when the fitted sheet is installed on the mattress body. The functional opening is configured to preserve an airway through the corresponding aperture during face-down use. Registration of the functional opening over the corresponding aperture is maintained by a peripheral retention structure surrounding the functional opening or tension of the sheet body when installed.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present Application for Patent is a continuation-in-part (CIP) of U.S. application Ser. No. 18/332,742 entitled “THERAPEUTIC MATTRESS” filed Jun. 11, 2023, pending, which is a continuation-in-part (CIP) of patent application Ser. No. 16/127,127 entitled “THERAPEUTIC MATTRESS” filed Sep. 10, 2018, now abandoned, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to a mattress, and more particularly, to a therapeutic mattress and associated coverings such as fitted sheets.

BACKGROUND

In more modern times, mattresses of nearly every conceivable configuration have been created to meet the needs of different sleeping types and even to help injured and/or sick persons to better recover. Such mattresses, especially in developed locales, are made from natural materials, man-made materials and composites thereof. Some modern mattresses have sensors that seemingly sense or hear when a user is snoring so as to change the elevation thereof to end a sleeper's snoring. For example, a conventional mattress generally includes a set of metal springs or coils mounted either on a base under a pad, or sandwiched in the center of a pair of pads. The metal springs and pad or pads are then covered with a strapping material. The entire structure is then sewn into a cloth cover or overlays and the edges are wrapped and sewn.
While such mattresses and overlays according to the prior art provide a number of advantageous features, they nevertheless have certain limitations. For example, the user could not rest facing downwards with respect to the mattress, as the conventional mattress fails to provide an airway that permits comfortable prone breathing while the user is face-down. Therefore, there is a need for a therapeutic mattress that allows the user to sleep or rest comfortably while facing upwards, downwards, or in any other orientation.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention discloses a therapeutic mattress. The mattress comprises a mattress body comprising a head of bed section and a foot of bed section, one or more apertures configured at the mattress body and a support frame having a support surface disposed within each aperture. The support frame comprises an air passage area therethrough. The mattress further comprises a first pillow removably disposed above the support surface and within the aperture. The first pillow has a C-shaped configuration. In one embodiment, the support surface has a C-shaped surface to support the first pillow. The first pillow is configured to expose a user's head to the air passage area while lying on the mattress facing downwards and enables the user to comfortably rest.
In one embodiment, the mattress is constructed as a type of conventional mattress type, for example foam, latex, coil spring, hybrid and inflatable air mattresses. In one embodiment, the support frame further comprises an adjustable suspension system to adjust the height of the support surface. The suspension system enables the user to position the first and second pillows at any desired height. In another embodiment, the support frame further comprises a suspension system having springs or elastic straps to adjust the height and tension of the pillows for supporting the face of the user.
In one embodiment, the apertures comprise at least two first apertures and at least two second apertures. The two first apertures are spaced apart from one another. The two second apertures are spaced apart from one another. In one embodiment, the first apertures are configured at a head of bed section. In one embodiment, the second apertures are configured at a foot of bed section. The two first apertures at the head of bed section are arranged parallel to the two second apertures at the foot of bed section.
Foam mattresses are typically designed for use in only one orientation in which the memory foam layer is above the core layer. Although a user would be free to flip the foam mattress to provide the core layer above the memory layer, it is not common. This is because the density of the core layer is typically so high that it would be prohibitively uncomfortable for use as a sleeping surface. For these reasons, foam mattresses are typically described as being “non-flippable” or “one-sided.” Therefore, the foam mattresses are typically rotated foot-to-head and not flipped. When rotated, the head of bed section becomes the foot of bed section, wherein pillows (“plugs”) are configured to removably receive within the respective aperture to plug the apertures at the foot of the bed on the mattress body to form the mattress having an even surface.
The therapeutic mattress further comprises one or more second pillows. The second pillow has a circular shape complementary to a shape of the aperture. The second pillows are configured to removably receive within the respective aperture to plug the apertures on the mattress body to form the mattress having an even surface. The therapeutic mattress further comprises a mattress case. The mattress case comprises a shape and configuration corresponding to a shape of the mattress body to cover the mattress. The mattress case comprises one or more pockets at a position corresponding to the apertures of the mattress. The pockets are configured to receive at least one of the first pillow and second pillow.
The therapeutic mattress further comprises a heating system disposed at one of the first pillow and the second pillow, a cooling system disposed at one of the first pillow and the second pillow and a sleep tracking system disposed at one of the first pillow and the second pillow. The sleep tracking system comprises at least one biometric sensor configured to track a sleeping pattern of the user. The therapeutic mattress further comprises one or more biometrics sensor disposed at the mattress body. The sensors are configured to track one or more biometric data of the user including heart rate and blood pressure of the user. The heating system, cooling system, sleep tracking system and the biometrics sensor are in communication with a user device associated with the user via at least one of a wired network and a wireless network.
The therapeutic mattress further comprises a power source to supply power to the heating system, cooling system and sleep tracking system (also commonly referred as system). The user device enables the user to receive and manage data from the system and enables the user to control the system.
In one embodiment, the mattress comprises a power source that powers the face pad. In practice, the face pad once inserted into the aperture, connects to an electrical contact from which electricity flows to the face pad. If the face pad herein comprises one or more electrical elements (e.g., one or more biometric sensors), the connected face pad then becomes powered to function.
When the mattress herein comprises a power source and is electrically powered, it may also be connected to local area network. If so connected, it uses that connection to transmit data from the mattress and/or the face pad to a computer, a server, a cell phone or any sort of application placed upon any of the foregoing. In similar fashion, therapeutic mattress herein provides at least one BLUETOOTH® connection to one or more BLUETOOTH® connectable devices like cell phones and pad devices upon which one or more computer applications exist to receive, interpret and show received data from the mattress and/or face pad.
The present invention also discloses a removable, washable fitted sheet configured for a therapeutic mattress having at least one airway aperture extending through a mattress body, the fitted sheet comprising: a sheet body sized to cover an upper surface and side walls of the mattress body; a periphery retention feature including at least one of an elastic band, corner pockets, straps, ties, or a zipper; and at least one functional opening positionable to overlie a corresponding airway aperture when the fitted sheet is installed, each functional opening comprising: (i) a peripheral retention structure surrounding the functional opening and maintaining registration of the functional opening over the airway aperture during use, and (ii) an air-permeable liner spanning at least a portion of the functional opening to permit airflow through the airway aperture while spacing sheet fabric from a user's face; wherein the peripheral retention structure comprises a depending sleeve or gusset having a depth of at least 10 mm that extends below a plane of the sheet body into the airway aperture when installed.
In one embodiment, the air-permeable liner exhibits an air permeability at least two times greater than adjacent sheet fabric as measured by ASTM D737. In another embodiment, the air-permeable liner and the sheet body maintain a minimum free-area sufficient to provide a volumetric airflow of at least 15 L/min at a pressure differential of 25 Pa through the functional opening and the airway aperture.
In one embodiment, the present invention provides for a method of using a fitted sheet with a therapeutic mattress having at least one airway aperture extending through a mattress body, the method comprising: placing a removable, washable fitted sheet over an upper surface and side walls of the mattress body; securing a periphery retention feature of the fitted sheet to retain the fitted sheet on the mattress body; aligning at least one functional opening of the fitted sheet to overlie a corresponding airway aperture of the mattress body; inserting a depending sleeve or gusset surrounding the functional opening into the airway aperture such that the depending sleeve or gusset extends below a plane of the fitted sheet; spanning at least a portion of the functional opening with an air-permeable liner; positioning a user in a face-down orientation on the fitted sheet such that a nose-and-mouth region of the user is spaced from the fitted sheet by the air-permeable liner, and permitting airflow through the airway aperture via the air-permeable liner while maintaining registration of the functional opening over the airway aperture during ordinary repositioning of the user. In another embodiment, the permitting airflow includes providing a volumetric airflow of at least 15 L/min at a pressure differential of 25 Pa through the air-permeable liner and the airway aperture. In another embodiment, the fitted sheet includes two or more functional openings and the method further comprises aligning respective functional openings to overlie airway apertures at head-of-bed and foot-of-bed locations.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 exemplarily illustrates a perspective view of a therapeutic mattress and a user lying facing downwards on the therapeutic mattress, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 exemplarily illustrates a perspective view of the therapeutic mattress and the user lying facing upwards on the therapeutic mattress, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 exemplarily illustrates a perspective view of the therapeutic mattress having first pillows, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 exemplarily illustrates a see-through view of a support frame supporting the first pillow, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 exemplarily illustrates a perspective view of the therapeutic mattress having apertures without pillows, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 exemplarily illustrates the support frames disposed within the apertures of the mattress, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 exemplarily illustrates the first pillows disposed over the support frames of the mattress, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 exemplarily illustrates second pillows disposed over the support frames of the mattress, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 exemplarily illustrates a fitted sheet specifically configured for use with the therapeutic mattress described herein, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 , exemplarily illustrates a cross-sectional view of a fitted sheet configured for use with the therapeutic mattress described herein and illustrates the dimensional relationships and airflow mechanics of the fitted sheet system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Example embodiments of the disclosure now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which example embodiments are shown. The concepts discussed herein may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the example embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope to those of ordinary skill in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements but not necessarily the same or identical elements throughout. The following presents non-limiting examples of an embodiment for a mattress assembly with suspension support. It is to be understood that while terms such as “left”, “right”, “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “back,” “side,” “rear,” and the like may be used in this specification to describe various example features and elements of the invention, these terms are used herein as a matter of convenience, e.g., based on the example orientations shown in the figures or the orientation during typical use.
“As used herein, ‘airway aperture’ means a through-thickness void, passage, or opening formed in a mattress body or support surface that establishes a flow path from a user-facing surface to an opposite surface or plenum. The airway aperture may be circular, oval, polygonal, slot-shaped, or irregular; may include radiused or chamfered edges; and may be lined, unlined, or fitted with inserts, spacers, or plugs. The airway aperture is sized and located to reduce breathing resistance during prone use and to admit, receive, or register with a functional opening of a fitted sheet or a C-shaped pillow as further described herein. Unless stated otherwise, ‘airway aperture’ encompasses single or multiple apertures and apertures having stepped, tapered, or contoured sidewalls.”
“As used herein, ‘peripheral retention structure’ means any structure associated with the sheet body and/or with a sheet-level functional opening that biases, constrains, or maintains registration between the functional opening and a corresponding airway aperture during ordinary use. The peripheral retention structure may include, without limitation, an elasticized hem, a band, a gusset or depending sleeve, a welt or binding, pocketed corners, straps, ties, zippers, hook-and-loop interfaces, snaps, rings, frames, or combinations thereof. The peripheral retention structure may be continuous or discontinuous, may extend below the plane of the sheet body into the aperture, and may cooperate with sheet tension and mattress geometry to resist lateral migration.”
“As used herein, ‘breathable liner’ means a removable or integrated, air-permeable element spanning at least a portion of a functional opening or permeable panel region to permit airflow through the underlying airway aperture while providing a barrier to direct contact, debris, or particulates. A breathable liner may comprise a woven or knit mesh, a 3D spacer knit, a nonwoven web, or a microporous or monolithic membrane laminate; may optionally include antimicrobial, hypoallergenic, or soil-release treatments; and may be detachably coupled to the sheet by zipper, snap, hook-and-loop, or other releasable interface for laundering or replacement. Unless stated otherwise, a breathable liner is considered ‘breathable’ when it admits a measurable volumetric airflow under a nonzero pressure differential as defined herein.”
“As used herein, ‘free-area’ means the effective open cross-section available for airflow through a specified plane of the flow path, expressed as an absolute area or as a percentage of a defined reference area. Unless noted otherwise, free-area at the sheet level is determined in the plane of the functional opening and is computed as the projected area of the opening minus the projected area of any occluding structures at that plane, such as strands of a mesh, spacer ribs, frames, or fasteners, divided by the projected area bounded by the opening perimeter. Where stated, free-area may be measured with the breathable liner installed and under a representative sheet tension to capture in-use conditions. Equivalent optical or image-analysis methods may be employed to determine projected occlusion.”
“As used herein, ‘ΔP’ denotes a pressure differential between two locations along the airflow path, typically between the ambient pressure at the user-facing side of the sheet and the pressure on the opposite side of the airway aperture or associated plenum. AP is expressed in Pascals and is positive when the user-facing side is at higher static pressure than the opposite side. Unless specified otherwise, ΔP refers to a static pressure differential measured with low-velocity pressure taps or equivalent instrumentation under quasi-steady conditions. Reported airflow values may be referenced to a stated ΔP to facilitate comparison across materials and configurations.”
“As used herein, ‘air permeability (ASTM D737)’ means the volumetric flow rate of air passing per unit area of a planar textile test specimen under a specified test pressure differential, as determined according to ASTM D737 or an equivalent method, and reported in units such as L/m²/s or ft³/min/ft²(cfm/ft²). Unless otherwise stated, results are reported at the standard test pressure selected per the method and the specific test pressure used is identified in context. Results obtained under different test pressures may be compared by retesting at a common pressure or by applying method-appropriate conversions. For clarity, ‘air permeability’ of a liner or fabric herein refers to material property measurements, while ‘volumetric airflow’ through a mattress aperture with the sheet installed refers to a system-level flow measurement.”
“As used herein, ‘C-shaped pillow’ means an annular, horseshoe-, or otherwise open-center cushion configured to support a user's face, forehead, cheeks, and/or chin while leaving an interior opening aligned with an airway aperture to reduce breathing resistance during prone use. A C-shaped pillow may include a compliant core (e.g., foam, fiberfill, gel, inflatable bladder, or combinations), a fabric cover, and optional features such as contoured load-bearing surfaces, moisture-management textiles, or removable covers. In certain embodiments, the C-shaped pillow is dimensioned to at least partially nest within the airway aperture and/or pass through a functional opening of the fitted sheet while the fitted sheet remains installed.”
Referring the FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 , the therapeutic mattress 100 is configured with an air passage that facilitates the user to comfortably sleep while facing downwards. The therapeutic mattress 100 is further configured to facilitate the user to comfortably sleep while facing upwards. Also, the therapeutic mattress 100 could be reconfigured to have an even surface.
Referring to FIG. 3 , the mattress 100 comprises a mattress body 102 and one or more apertures (104A, 104B) (shown in FIG. 5 ) configured at the mattress body 102. The mattress body 102 comprises a head of bed section and a foot of bed section. The apertures (104A, 104B) include at least two first apertures 104A and at least two second apertures 104B. The first apertures 104A are configured at the head of bed section and the second apertures 104B are configured at the foot of bed section. The first apertures 104A are positioned parallel to the second apertures 104B.
Referring to FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 , the mattress 100 further comprises one or more first pillows 106, one or more second pillows 108 and one or more support frames 110. At least one support frame 110 is disposed within the apertures (104A, 104B) to support at least one of first pillow 106 and second pillow 108. The support frame 110 comprises an air passage area therethrough. In an embodiment, the air passage area extends between two opposing external surfaces of the mattress 100. The first pillow 106 has a c-shaped configuration, which exposes a user's head to the air passage area while lying on the mattress 100 facing downwards and enables the user to comfortably rest. The first pillow 106 and the second pillow 108 also commonly referred as pillows (106, 108).
Referring to FIG. 4 , the support frame 110 has a support surface 112 to support the pillows (106, 108). The support surface 112 has a c-shape to support the first pillow 106. The C-shaped first pillow 106 and the support frame 110 create an air passage area. In one embodiment, the air passage area is an empty space that extends from the front external surface of the mattress 100 to the rear external surface of the mattress body 102. In one embodiment, the support frame 110 comprises a suspension system 114 that enables to adjust the height of the support surface 112, which in turn enables the user to position the pillows (106, 108) at any desired height.
Referring to FIG. 5 , at least two first apertures 104A formed at the head of bed section of the mattress 100 and at least two second apertures 104B formed at the foot of bed section of the mattress 100. The mattress 100 further comprises a mattress case 116 of corresponding shape and configuration covering the mattress 100. The mattress case 116 comprises one or more pockets 118 at a position corresponding to the position of the apertures (104A, 104B). The pockets 118 is configured to receive the pillows (106, 108). In one embodiment, the first pillow 106 are configured to fit the face of a human head and allow for proper air flow to the face of the user. Preferably, the first pillow 106 is sizable for differently sized faces. Further, the pillows (106, 108) contain soft padding.
Referring to FIG. 6 , the support frames 110 are disposed within each aperture (104A, 104B). The first pillow 106 is disposed above the support frame 110, as shown in FIG. 7 . Referring to FIG. 8 , in another embodiment, the second pillow 108 is disposed above the support surface 112 of the support frame 110. The second pillow 108 has a circular shape complementary to a shape of the aperture (104A, 104B). The second pillow 108 is configured to removably receive within the respective aperture (104A, 104B) to plug the apertures (104A, 104B) on the mattress body 102 to form the mattress 100 having an even surface.
In one embodiment, the mattress 100 comprises one or more layers. In another embodiment, the mattress 100 comprises at least three layers including a first layer, a second layer and a third layer. The second layer is disposed between the first layer and the third layer. The apertures (104A, 104B) extend from the first layer to the second layer. In another embodiment, the apertures (104A, 104B) extend from the first layer to the third layer.
As shown, the opening 107, together with the C-shaped configuration of the first pillow, permits the intake and expulsion of air when the user is in a downward-facing position. Air may also be taken in through second layer and third layers. In alternative embodiment, opening 107 may be designed to cause air to be expelled and received only through second and/or third layer. In that embodiment, such layers may provide filters through air is absorbed through that clean air flowing therethrough. Such filter may comprise a charcoal filter. Such an embodiment would be particularly beneficial for injured or sick users laying upon mattress for rest recovery purposes. In one or more embodiments, the second and/or third layers may be comprised of a plurality of springs or coils. As appreciated by one skilled in the art cores may come in all different forms and general provide support for the mattress.
In one aspect of the invention, the coils may be 16-gauge or 14-gauge coils. The higher gauge coils provide more resistance and thus create a flatter sleeping surface regardless of the sleeper's position. In one aspect of the invention each of the coils is individually wrapped. The individually wrapped coils prevent tangling, which allows the springs to move independently. By having independent movement in each spring, the mattress is able to resist bouncing along the entire sleeping surface of the mattress. This helps keep movement from transferring to the other side of the bed. Therefore, if two people are using the same mattress, the movement of one person will not resonate through the spring system and cause movement at the other side of the bed. Individually wrapped coils also allows for each wire to flex separately and therefore will conform to the individual contours of the body. Coils also provide the mattress with a much cooler feel, as air is easily removed through the coils from the top and bottom foam layers. Coils also provide enough bend for adjustable bases, which causes less wear and tear on moving parts, making the mattress usable for a longer period of time. The wire that makes up the coils may also be heat-treated and stress relieved. This aids the coils in holding their shape and thus provides a more durable consistent sleep surface. Coils may also be of varying buoyancy strategically designed to position comfort zones which support, for example, the hips, back, and shoulders. For example, having a nested center zoning would provide for more back support than a normal mattress. The high coil count in the center can also provide for an even surface across the entire mattress. Additionally, the coils may come pre-compressed. The pre-compressed coils create a firm surface that makes the unit more responsive to body movements.
In one embodiment, the pillows (106, 108) comprise a vibration system that is configured to provide vibration sensation to the user. The vibration system causes the pillows (106, 108) to vibrate against the head or face of the user. The pillows (106, 108) further comprise a heating system and a cooling system. In one embodiment, the heating system is configured to provide heat energy to warm the user's face or head. The cooling system is configured to cool the user's face or head.
In one embodiment, the pillows (106, 108) further comprise a sleep tracking system configured to track the sleeping pattern of the user. The sleep tracking system comprises one or more biometric sensors. In one embodiment, at least one biometric sensor is configured to track the sleeping pattern of the user, at least one biometric sensor is configured to track a blood pressure of the user and at least one biometric sensor is configured to track a heart rate of the user. In one embodiment, the sleep tracking system could be controlled using a user device associated with the user. Further, the heating system, cooling system and the vibration system could also be controlled using the user device. The sleep tracking system, the heating system, cooling system, the vibration system and the user device are configured to communicate data via at least one of a wired network and a wireless network.
The mattress 100 further comprises a power source. The power source is configured to supply power to one or more electronic and electrical components of the pillows (106, 108). The pillows (106, 108) further comprise electrical outlets to connect the electronic and electrical components of the pillows (106, 108) to the power source. Advantageously, the therapeutic mattress 100 is configured to facilitate the user to comfortably sleep while facing upwards, downwards, or in any other orientation. Also, the therapeutic mattress 100 could be reconfigured to have an even surface.
Referring to FIG. 9 , in some embodiments a fitted sheet 200 is specifically configured for use with the therapeutic mattress 100 described herein. The sheet body 200 is sized and configured to cover an upper surface and side walls of the mattress body 102, providing a hygienic, removable sleeping surface while preserving the therapeutic functionality of the mattress apertures. The fitted sheet 200 is a removable, launderable linen distinct from any structural mattress case.
The fitted sheet 200 includes a functional opening 204 positioned to overlie and register with a corresponding aperture (104A, 104B) when the sheet is installed on the mattress body 102. The opening 204 is configured to preserve an airway through the corresponding aperture during face-down use.
In the embodiment of FIG. 9 , the opening 204 includes a peripheral retention structure 206 that facilitates registration and alignment of the opening 204 with the underlying aperture. In some implementations, the retention structure 206 comprises a depending annular sleeve or gusseted pocket, comprising stitched gussets 210, that extends below the plane of the sheet body 200 and into the aperture when the sheet is installed, thereby maintaining alignment during normal movement and use.
In certain embodiments, the fitted sheet 200 includes two openings 204 located at the head of the bed wherein the fitted sheet 200 covers the one or more apertures (104B) that are rotated to the foot of the bed. In certain embodiments, one or more second pillows 108 will plug the corresponding aperture (104B) providing a smooth resting surface at the foot of the mattress 100.
The opening 204 further comprises a breathable liner 208 spanning at least a portion of the opening 204. The liner 208 permits air passage through the corresponding aperture while providing a barrier to direct contact between the user's face and the aperture edge or support frame 110. In certain embodiments, the liner 208 is a mesh textile (e.g., polyester or nylon monofilament knit or 3D spacer knit) with optional antimicrobial or hypoallergenic treatments; the liner may be permanently affixed or removably serviceable via a zipper, snap, or hook-and-loop interface. In some versions a replaceable filter element-such as charcoal, foam, or HEPA-type media—can be used in place of or in combination with the mesh.
Airflow through the liner 208 and the underlying aperture structure enables a user to breathe comfortably while lying face-down with the fitted sheet 200 in place.
Referring to FIG. 10 , a cross-sectional view illustrates the dimensional relationships and airflow mechanics of the fitted sheet system. The figure demonstrates how the depending sleeve of the peripheral retention structure 206 extends a depth H below the sheet body 200 plane into the aperture (104A, 104B) of the mattress body 102.
The cross-section reveals the internal construction of the stitched gussets 210, which comprise folded fabric elements that create structural reinforcement. The gussets 210 transition the sheet material from the horizontal plane of the sheet body 200 to the vertical orientation of the depending sleeve portion of structure 206.
The breathable liner 208 is shown positioned within the depending sleeve, creating a mesh barrier that spans the airflow path. The liner 208 maintains separation between the user breathing zone and the internal aperture environment while preserving gas exchange capability.
The dimensional relationship shows the depth H of the depending sleeve extends sufficiently into the aperture to prevent direct contact between a user's facial features and the aperture perimeter. The sleeve terminates above the support frame 110 level, creating a cushioned breathing chamber.
Airflow vectors demonstrate the pneumatic function, with air entering from the mattress bottom surface, traversing the support frame 110 air passage area, passing through the mesh liner 208, and exiting to the user breathing space above the sheet body 200. The upward arrows indicate inhalation airflow, while the downward arrows indicate exhalation airflow, together illustrating the bidirectional gas exchange that occurs during respiration. The cross-sectional view reveals how the fabric construction maintains airflow continuity in both directions while providing physical protection and comfort enhancement.
The fitted sheet 200 may further include a periphery retention feature (not shown in FIG. 9 ) selected from an elastic band, corner pockets, straps, ties, or a zipper encasement, to retain the sheet on the mattress body 102 and thereby assist in maintaining registration of the opening 204 with the corresponding aperture.
The retention structure 206 can alternatively include one or more of: a semi-rigid ring maintaining the shape of the opening 204; a drawstring channel for adjustable tightening; indexed elastic segments providing targeted retention; snap fasteners secure to complementary elements on the mattress; hook-and-loop pads; or a zipper ring allowing partial or full closure of the opening 204. In some embodiments, the depending sleeve or gusset of structure 206 has a depth H≥10 mm (e.g., 10-50 mm) to shield the user's face from the aperture edge or support frame 110.
The opening 204 may be dimensioned to pass and seat the C-shaped pillow 106 in the aperture while the fitted sheet 200 remains installed, or to pass a bung configured to substantially close the aperture flush with the surrounding sheet fabric when the therapeutic feature is not required. A suitable adult size range for the opening diameter is 100-220 mm with seam tolerances selected to allow sliding passage without excessive slack.
Alternative configurations of the opening 204 include intersecting slits, a tear-away or perforated panel, or a zippered flap that expands in use to define the opening. The sheet body 200 may include orientation indicia keyed to head/foot alignment. Suitable sheet textiles include cotton, polyester, synthetic blends, bamboo fibers, and fluid-resistant barrier fabrics.
When installed on a correctly sized mattress, the opening 204 is maintained in registration with the corresponding aperture such that the opening centerline remains within ±15 mm (e.g., ±10-20 mm) of the aperture centerline during ordinary repositioning of the user.
In another class of embodiments, the sheet 200 omits a discrete hole and instead includes a permeable panel region coextensive with at least a portion of a mattress aperture. The panel region has an air permeability at least 2 times greater than adjacent sheet fabric and may comprise a 3D spacer knit of thickness ranging between 2-15 mm. The panel can be removably coupled for laundering or replacement, and edge reinforcement analogous to structure 206 may be provided to maintain registration.
It should be understood that the fitted sheet embodiments described herein are not limited to the specific configurations shown and described, but may be modified in various ways while maintaining the essential function of providing a removable, washable covering for the therapeutic mattress that preserves the airway function of the apertures. The scope of this disclosure encompasses all such modifications and variations that would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art.
The fitted sheet 200 and its various embodiments provide significant advantages over conventional sheets when used with the therapeutic mattress 100, including improved hygiene, ease of maintenance, user comfort, and preservation of the therapeutic breathing functionality that is central to the mattress design. These advantages make the fitted sheet an integral component of the overall therapeutic mattress system described herein.
In certain embodiments, the sheet body is constructed from durable, launderable textiles selected from cotton, polyester, cotton-polyester blends, lyocell, modal, and microfiber weaves, with an areal density typically between about 110 and 220 grams per square meter (gsm) for comfort-grade linens, and between about 150 and 280 gsm for institutional or high-duty service. The breathable liner or permeable panel, where present, may comprise a woven or knit mesh of about 80 to 180 gsm with an open-area fraction sufficient to provide the air-permeability levels described herein, or a three-dimensional spacer knit having a compressible thickness of about 2 to 8 millimeters (mm), optionally up to about 12 mm, to maintain a small standoff from the user's face while admitting airflow. Monofilament meshes may exhibit strand diameters of about 0.10 to 0.40 mm with open-area between about 30% and 70%, and spacer knits may incorporate polyester or polyamide filament pillars configured to recover after repeated compression. Seams and hems are formed using constructions compatible with repeated laundering, including overlock and coverstitch seams, flatlock seams at user-contact regions to minimize ridges, and bound hems or taped seams at the perimeter; seam allowances are typically about 6 to 12 mm with a stitch density of about 8 to 12 stitches per 25 mm using polyester core-spun thread (e.g., Tex 27-40). The peripheral retention structure may include an elasticized hem encased in a tunnel with a relaxed width of about 12 to 25 mm and a stretched fit sufficient to retain the sheet on the mattress sidewalls; corner pockets may be reinforced with bar-tacks at stress points. Where a depending sleeve or gusset surrounds a functional opening, the gusset can be attached by sewing a circular or polygonal facing to the sheet body, turning and top-stitching to create a clean finished edge, and joining the gusset panel with a continuous overlock plus a top-stitch to stabilize the seam against creep; alternatively, a binding tape of about 12 to 20 mm finished width may capture both the sheet body and gusset edge. Where a removable liner is used, a low-profile coupling such as a nylon coil zipper (e.g., size #3-#5) or a row of snaps or hook-and-loop segments may be oriented so that hardware is outside the anticipated face-contact zone; zipper sliders can be parked in a covered garage and seams may include soft tape or knit binding to shield hard edges. The materials and constructions are selected to withstand at least 50 laundering cycles without material degradation of fit or airflow performance, with dimensional change of the sheet body preferably not exceeding about ±3% after repeated washing and drying under representative conditions. Laundering may be performed as warm or hot-water wash cycles (e.g., 40-71° C./104-160° F.) with compatible detergents; institutional disinfection protocols may be used provided they do not collapse the liner's open structure or occlude the mesh, and chlorine or oxygen-based bleach may be permitted in concentrations compatible with the textile supplier's recommendations. Tumble drying may be on low to medium heat; fabric softeners and silicone finishes may be avoided where they measurably reduce air permeability. The removable liner may be laundered together with, or separately from, the sheet body, and the assembly is configured so that post-laundering reinstallation restores registration of the functional opening within about ±15 mm of the corresponding airway aperture under normal tensioning.
This apparatus is intended to facilitate prone positioning by preserving an airway pathway aligned with an underlying airway aperture and is designed for supervised adult use in therapeutic, recovery, massage, or other short-duration prone scenarios where a caregiver, clinician, or attendant can verify proper registration and unobstructed airflow. The airway feature reduces breathing resistance when properly aligned but does not eliminate the need for supervision or proper positioning, and it is not a substitute for clinical monitoring where indicated. The device is not intended for infants or young children and should not be used for unattended sleeping, co-sleeping, or any scenario where the user cannot reposition or signal distress; use with infants is expressly excluded. The functional opening and any breathable liner should be kept free of pillows, blankets, towels, loose fabric, or other objects that could occlude airflow, and the fitted sheet should not be used if torn, excessively worn, or improperly installed. Before each use, the caregiver may confirm that the functional opening registers with the underlying aperture, that the liner is correctly seated with the coupling fully engaged, and that airflow is not impeded by debris or bedding. Users with respiratory compromise or those under sedation should be managed according to applicable clinical protocols, and the product should be employed only in environments where prompt assistance is available. These use conditions help ensure the airway feature operates as intended while avoiding unintended interpretations of the device's function.
Although the features, functions, components, and parts have been described herein in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure, the scope of coverage of this patent is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this patent covers all embodiments of the teachings of the disclosure that fairly fall within the scope of permissible equivalents.
Many modifications and other implementations of the disclosure set forth herein will be apparent having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the specific implementations disclosed and that modifications and other implementations are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A removable, washable fitted sheet for use with a therapeutic mattress having at least one aperture through a mattress body, the fitted sheet comprising:

a sheet body sized to cover an upper surface and side walls of the mattress body;

a periphery retention feature comprising at least one of: an elastic band; corner pockets; straps; ties; a zipper; and

one or more functional openings disposed in the sheet body and positionable to overlie a corresponding aperture when the fitted sheet is installed on the mattress body, each functional opening being configured to preserve an airway through the corresponding aperture during face-down use;

wherein registration of the functional opening over the corresponding aperture is maintained by at least one of: (i) a peripheral retention structure surrounding the functional opening; (ii) tension of the sheet body when installed.

2. The fitted sheet of claim 1, wherein the peripheral retention structure comprises a depending annular sleeve or gusseted pocket that extends below a plane of the sheet body into the aperture when installed.

3. The fitted sheet of claim 2, wherein the depending annular sleeve has a depth of at least 10 mm to shield a user's face from direct contact with an edge of the aperture or a support frame.

4. The fitted sheet of claim 1, wherein the peripheral retention structure comprises at least one of: a semi-rigid ring; a drawstring channel; indexed elastic segments; snap fasteners; hook-and-loop pads; a zipper ring.

5. The fitted sheet of claim 1, wherein at least one functional opening further comprises a breathable liner spanning at least a portion of the functional opening to permit air passage through the corresponding aperture.

6. The fitted sheet of claim 5, wherein the breathable liner is removably serviceable via a zipper, snap, or hook-and-loop interface.

7. The fitted sheet of claim 5, wherein the breathable liner comprises a mesh textile and optionally an antimicrobial or hypoallergenic treatment.

8. The fitted sheet of claim 5, wherein the breathable liner further comprises a replaceable filter element selected from charcoal, foam, or HEPA-type media.

9. The fitted sheet of claim 1, wherein the functional opening is dimensioned to pass and seat a C-shaped pillow in the aperture while the fitted sheet remains installed.

10. The fitted sheet of claim 1, wherein the functional opening is dimensioned to pass a bung configured to plug the aperture substantially flush with surrounding sheet fabric.

11. The fitted sheet of claim 1, further comprising a cinch or closure around a periphery of the functional opening to tighten sheet fabric around an inserted pillow, bung, or support frame.

12. The fitted sheet of claim 1, further comprising a standoff spacer at the functional opening, the standoff spacer comprising a compressible or semi-rigid frame that tents the sheet fabric away from a user's face, with or without the breathable liner.

13. The fitted sheet of claim 1, wherein the functional opening comprises intersecting slits, a tear-away or perforated panel, or a zippered flap that expands in use to define the functional opening.

14. The fitted sheet of claim 1, wherein the sheet body comprises orientation indicia keyed to head/foot alignment of the apertures, and a textile selected from cotton, polyester, synthetic blends, or fluid-resistant barrier fabric.

15. A removable, washable fitted sheet for use with a therapeutic mattress having at least one aperture through a mattress body, the fitted sheet comprising:

at least one permeable panel region disposed in the sheet body and coextensive with at least a portion of a corresponding aperture when the fitted sheet is installed, the permeable panel region having an air permeability greater than surrounding portions of the sheet body and being configured to preserve an airway through the corresponding aperture during face-down use.

16. The fitted sheet of claim 15, wherein the permeable panel region comprises a 3D spacer knit or monofilament mesh having a thickness sufficient to maintain a stand-off from a user's face.

17. The fitted sheet of claim 15, wherein the permeable panel region is removably coupled to the sheet body for laundering or replacement.

18. The fitted sheet of claim 15, further comprising edge reinforcement around the permeable panel region selected from stitched borders, elastic linings, hems, or semi-rigid frames.

19. The fitted sheet of claim 15, wherein the permeable panel region comprises a multi-layer filter stack.

20. The fitted sheet of claim 15, wherein registration of the permeable panel region over the corresponding aperture is maintained by at least one of: a semi-rigid frame; a drawstring channel; indexed clastic segments; snap fasteners; sheet tension when installed.