WO2016094372A1

WO2016094372A1 - Infant mat

Info

Publication number: WO2016094372A1
Application number: PCT/US2015/064436
Authority: WO
Inventors: Emilie ROPER
Original assignee: Baby Pallet LLC
Current assignee: Baby Pallet LLC
Priority date: 2014-12-09
Filing date: 2015-12-08
Publication date: 2016-06-16
Anticipated expiration: 2017-06-09

Abstract

An article that includes an outer layer and a middle layer enclosed by the outer layer. Toe article is able to yield to pressure and temporarily deform without having permanent deformation and the article can provide a sleeping, play, and/or changing surface for an infant.

Description

INFANT MAT

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an article for providing a sleeping, play, and changing surface for an infant or toddler.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Infants often require a changing surface separate from their home changing table for changing both their diaper and clothes. There are a variety of changing mats on the market which a parent or caregiver can pack in a travel bag which are covered with a vinyl-like material for easy cleaning. These mats are only suitable for use as a changing surface, as they have insufficient padding for other infant activities and infants find the exterior material uncomfortable for playing or sleeping.

[0003] Further, infants require surfaces for developmental activities, playing, and sleeping. These activities require a surface for the infant, as the available ground may be too hard, unsanitary, or otherwise unsuitable. There are a number of mats that are suitable as such a surface. These mats are designed to be comfortable for an infant, and as such, the materials are often difficult to clean or sanitize. In addition, when the mat is folded for transportation, the surface the infant plays and/or sleeps on is exposed to the surface that was previously in contact with the ground and transfers the germs from one surface to another. Further, both these mats and changing mats are typically comprised of an interior of foam, batting, cotton, or other similar materials. Over time and with use the mats tend to lose their shape, the interiors clump, or they may disintegrate which results in a mat that is either temporarily or permanently unusable.

[0004] In addition, currently available mats are limited in their functionality.

Changing mats may only be appropriate for changing and play mats only for play. Mats designed for outdoor use are not able to be easily brought inside and indoor mats are not compatible with outdoor surfaces, such as when exposed to damp grass as they may absorb moisture. Both the indoor and outdoor mats may not be machine washable, being only able to be wiped clean. [0005] There is also a lack of mats compatible with portable cribs, infant play yards, infant play gyms, and the like. The bottom surface of these portable cribs is often very thin and hard, providing an uncomfortable surface for an infant to sleep.

Conventional supplemental mats which are able to be inserted into a portable crib are traditionally a thick cushion intended to remain within the crib, do not provide easily cleaned surfaces, and are not able to be folded for portability. These conventional supplemental crib mats which provide sufficient cushion for infants to sleep within portable cribs or play gyms are unable to be safely used independently of the portable crib due to the height or the thickness of the cushion. Without the presence of the side walls of the of the portable crib or play gym, an infant is able to roll off of the mat by more than a couple of vertical inches which poses a safety hazard to the infant.

[0006] Thus, what is needed is an infant mat which can serve as a changing, play, and sleep surface that is easily able to be sanitized; includes a surface which is able to avoid contact with other surfaces during use and/or transportation to stay clean; has the ability to be deformed; does not degrade over time; is compatible with portable infant cribs and play gyms; can be used independently of a portable crib and play gym; and is able to be used both indoors and outdoors.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The present disclosure relates to an article comprising: a) an outer layer and b) a middle layer enclosed by the outer layer; wherein the article yields to pressure and temporarily deforms without having permanent deformation; and wherein the article can provide a sleeping, play, and/or changing surface for an infant.

[0008] The present disclosure relates to an article comprising: a top layer made of a soft material capable of providing a comfortable surface for an infant sleeping and/or playing; a middle layer adjacent to the top layer including a padding of sufficient thickness to provide cushioning to the infant; a bottom layer adjacent to the middle layer and opposite the top layer, made of a water-resistant material capable of providing a changing surface for the infant; wherein the article yields to pressure and is able to temporarily deform without having a permanent deformation; and the article is sized to fit the bottom of an infant portable crib or a play gym.

[0009] In some preferred embodiments, the article according to the teachings herein may further comprise a fastener which provides access to the middle layer from the outer layer. In some preferred embodiments, the article of the teachings herein may be able to be folded to function as a changing surface for the infant. In some preferred embodiments, when the article is deformed due to yielding to pressure, it will resume its original shape without additional force after pressure is removed.

[0010] The teachings herein provide a method of using the article described herein, and also a method of manufacturing or assembling the article described herein.

[0011] The article of the disclosure may be able to serve as a changing surface, such as by folding for use with a changing table and able to be easily cleaned. The article of the disclosure may be able to serve as an infant play or sleeping surface by providing an infant with a comfortable cushioned surface. The article of the disclosure may be able to yield to pressure and temporarily deform. The article of the disclosure may include material such that it resists degradation. The article of the disclosure may be sized to be used independently of infant cribs and play gyms. The article of the disclosure may be compatible and used with with infant cribs and play gyms. The article of the disclosure may include a water resistant material so that the article is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an article in accordance with the present teachings.

[0013] Figure 2 is a view of the article of Figure 1 in a portable infant crib.

[0014] Figure 3 is a view of an infant using the article of Figure 1 as a changing surface. [0015] Figure 4 is a view of an outer layer of the article opened to receive a middle layer of the article of Figure 1.

[0016] Figure 5 is a view of a middle layer inserted into an outer layer of the article of Figure 1.

[0017] Figure 6 is a view of an outer layer of the article partially enclosing a middle layer of the article of Figure 1.

[0018] Figure 7 is a view of an outer layer of the article fully enclosing a middle layer of the article of Figure 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The explanations and illustrations presented herein are intended to acquaint others skilled in the art with the teachings herein, its principles, and its practical application. Accordingly, the specific embodiments of the present disclosure as set forth are not intended as being exhaustive or limiting of the teachings herein. The scope of the teachings herein should, therefore, be determined not with reference to the above description, but should instead be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. The disclosures of all articles and references, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated by reference for all purposes. Other combinations are also possible as will be gleaned from the following claims, which are also hereby incorporated by reference into this written description.

[0020] The present teachings relate to an infant mat which provides a sleeping, play, and changing surface for an infant and is able to yield to pressure and temporarily deform without having permanent deformation. The present teachings are also advantageous in that the teachings present a mat which is able to provide any

individual, whether infant, child, teenager, or adult, a comfortable surface for playing or sleeping and a barrier from contaminants (including moisture) on a ground surface. The infant mat comprises an outer layer and a middle layer enclosed by the outer layer. The outer layer includes one surface which rests upon a supporting surface, such as the ground and an opposing surface which is in contact with the infant.

[0021] The infant mat may further comprise any one or more of the features described in this specification in any combination, including the preferences and examples listed in this specification, and includes the following features: the article may be sized to substantially cover a bottom surface of an infant portable crib or an infant play gym; the article may be equal to or smaller than a bottom surface of an infant portable crib or an infant play gym; the outer layer may include a top layer adjacent to a surface of the middle layer and a bottom layer adjacent to an opposing surface of the middle layer; the outer layer may include a fastening device which provides access to the middle layer; the outer layer may include a fastening device that at least partially connects the top layer to the bottom layer and provides access to the middle layer; the top layer may include a soft material; the bottom layer may include a water-resistant material; the middle layer may include a padding of sufficient thickness to provide the infant with a cushioned surface; the middle layer may be water resistant; the article may be substantially rectangular in shape; the article may be adapted to be folded such that the bottom layer is exposed and a portion of the top layer lies in direct planar contact with an adjacent portion of the top layer; the article may include a grasp attached to the outer layer such that when the article is folded, a user is able to unfold the article with one hand; the outer layer may be made of a machine washable material; after the article is folded, the bottom layer may function as a changing surface for the infant; the article when folded may be about equal to or smaller than a conventional infant changing station; the article when folded may resume an original unfolded shape without requiring additional force or pressure; and the bottom layer may include a water-resistant material suitable for a changing surface for the infant and can include a polyurethane laminate.

[0022] The article may comprise an outer layer and a middle layer. The combination of the outer layer and middle layer can provide a barrier between an infant and a surface, such as the ground. The infant is thereby able to avoid contact with the surface and avoid germs, dirt, or other contaminants. The combination of the outer layer and middle layer can also provide a more comfortable surface as compared to the alternately available surface for the infant.

[0023] The article may be rectangular in overall shape having a width, length, and height. The article may be substantially round shape. The article may have any shape suitable for providing a surface for an infant to lie on, play on, be changed on, or any combination thereof. The article's width and length can be designed such that the article is able to substantially cover the bottom surface of an infant portable crib or infant play gym, providing an alternative surface for the infant. The article's width and length can be designed to be smaller or equal to the bottom surface of an infant portable crib or infant play gym, such that it can be placed in the bottom of the crib or gym. The article's width and length can be designed to be smaller or equal to the surface of an infant changing station, such that it can be placed on the infant changing station. Preferably, the article is sized with a length and a width such that when the article is placed inside of a portable infant crib or play gym, the article is able to lay flat. Preferably, the article is sized with a length and a width such that when the article is placed inside of a portable infant crib or play gym, the sides of the article are in contact with the sides (i.e., walls, mesh walls) of the portable infant crib or play gym so as to avoid a pinch condition for the infant (i.e., preventing limbs, fingers, etc from becoming lodged between the artcile and the portable infant crib or play gym). The article may have a width of about 20 inches or greater, preferably about 22 inches or greater, and more preferably about 24 inches or greater. The article may have a width of about 70 inches or less, preferably about 50 inches or less, and more preferably about 26 inches or less. The article may have a length of about 20 inches or more, preferably about 25 inches or more, and more preferably about 35 inches or more. The article may have a length about 70 inches or less, preferably about 50 inches or less, and more preferably about 40 inches or less. The article's height may be of sufficient height to provide a cushioned surface for an infant to sleep and play comfortably without bottoming out under the infant's mass or body weight. The article's height may be sufficiently small so that if the article is not surrounded by a barrier, such as a portable crib wall, an infant is not injured by rolling off of the article. The article's height may be sufficient to support an infant but not so great that folding of the article is prevented. The article may have a height of about 3 inches or less, preferably about 2 inches or less, and more preferably about 1.5 inches or less. The article may have a height of about 0.2 inches or greater, preferably about 0.5 inches or greater, and more preferably about 0.75 inches or greater. The article may include an upper surface and a lower surface, the upper surface may serve as a sleeping surface for an instant, a play surface for an infant, or both. The lower surface may serve as a changing surface for an infant, the surface in contact with an alternate surface (i.e., the ground), or both.

[0024] The article's outer layer serves as the exterior surface of the infant mat and encloses the middle layer. The outer layer can include a soft, comfortable surface for an infant. The soft, comfortable surface can be the same surface as the sleeping and play surface. The outer layer can include a water-resistant surface, such that it is easily wiped clean. The water-resistant surface can be the same surface as the changing surface or ground contact surface.

[0025] The outer layer may comprise two separate layers: a top layer and a bottom layer. The top layer may function to provide a soft and comfortable surface. The top layer can be the same layer as the sleeping and play surface layer. The top layer may be adjacent to one or more surfaces of the middle layer. The top layer can cover just one planar surface or the upper surface of the article or it can extend partially or completely around one or more sides of the article. The top layer may include a soft material. Preferably, the top layer includes fleece, polyester, suedocloth, microfiber, the like, or any combination thereof. Fleece may include polyester fleece, micro-fleece, medium-weight fleece, minky fleece, cuddle fleece, coral fleece, the like, or a

combination thereof. The bottom layer can function to provide a water-resistant or waterproof surface, be easily wiped clean, or both. The bottom layer can be the same layer as the changing surface layer. The bottom layer can cover just one planar surface or the bottom surface of the article or it can extend partially or completely around one or more sides of the article. The bottom layer may include a water-resistant material suitable for use as a changing surface. Preferably, the bottom layer may include a polyurethane laminate material, such as a polyurethane laminate (PUL) fabric, so that it is water resistant. In addition to being water resistant, the polyurethane laminate fabric is also breathable (i.e., releases heat and water vapor), such that the bottom layer may be comfortable for an infant. The top layer and the bottom layer may enclose a middle layer.

[0026] The article comprises a middle layer. The middle layer may function to provide cushioning to the article, to allow the article to be easily folded, to be sufficiently lightweight for easy portability, or any combination thereof. The middle layer may include a padded material of sufficient thickness to provide the infant with a cushioned surface which is comfortable and does not bottom out under the infant's body mass or weight. The middle layer may have a thickness of about 0.2 inches or greater, preferably about 0.5 inches or greater, and more preferably about 0.75 inches or greater. The middle layer may have a thickness of about 3 inches or less, preferably about 2 inches or less, more preferably about 1.5 inches or less, and most preferably about 1 inch or less. The middle layer may be comprised of a middle layer core and a middle layer casing. The middle layer core may include a padded material. Preferably, the middle layer includes one unitary piece of padded material which provides cushioned support to the entire article which is enclosed by the outer layer. The middle layer core may comprise a cushion material, such as compressed polyester, polyester fiberfill, polyurethane foam, open cell foam, closed cell foam, the like, or any

combination thereof. Preferably the middle layer core comprises a polyurethane foam. The polyurethane foam is affordable, is easily deformable and quickly returns to an original shape such as to resist permanent deformation, and provides supportive cushioning at thinner heights as compared to other cushioning. The middle layer core may include a foam having a density which provides a cushioned support surface to an infant and which does not bottom out under the mass or weight of an infant. To provide a suitable cushioned support surface which does not bottom out and which is deformable for easy folding and portability, the middle layer core may have a density of about 2.5 pounds per cubic foot or less, preferably about 2.2 pounds per cubic foot or less, and more preferably about 2 pounds per cubic foot or less. The middle layer core may have a density of about 1.2 pounds per cubic foot or more, preferably about 1.4 pounds per cubic foot or more, and more preferably about 1.6 pounds per cubic foot or more. To provide sufficient cushioning which is both comfortable to an infant, provides support to an infant, and prevents bottoming out of the cushion, the middle layer core may have a 25% indentation force deflection (25% IFD) of about 60 pounds or less, preferably about 55 pounds or less, and more preferably about 50 pounds or less. The middle layer core may have a 25% indentation force deflection (25% IFD) of about 30 pounds or more, preferably about 35 pounds or more, and more preferably about 40 pounds or more. To provide sufficient cushioning which does not bottom out under the weight of an infant, the middle layer core may have a support factor or compression modulus (ratio of 65% indentation force deflection to 25% indentation force deflection) of about 1.7 or greater, preferably about 1.8 or greater. The middle layer core may have a support factor or compression modulus of about 2.1 or less, preferably about 2.0 or less. Testing for density, indentation force deflection, and support factor can be determined using ATSM D3574 Standard, Rev.1 testing standard. Additionally, the middle layer core may include flame retardant or may be free of a flame retardant. Preferably, the middle layer core is free of a flame retardant and made of a material compliant with the California Technical Bullet 1 17-2013 standard (Cal TB 117-2013). For infants with allergies, it is preferred the middle layer core be free of flame retardants so as to avoid exposure to allergens associated with flame retardants. Exemplary suitable polyurethane foam may include CV1835, CV1845, CV1865, and CV2033 from Active Foam Products, Inc. The middle layer casing can partially or fully enclose the middle layer core. The middle layer casing can be disposed in between the middle layer core and the outer layer. The middle layer casing may function to provide additional water resistance or waterproofness to the article, so that moisture is prevented from entering the middle layer core. The middle layer casing may include nylon or the like. The middle layer may further include water-resistant material that is not part of the middle layer casing, such as by being integral with the middle layer core. At least a portion of the middle layer may comprise a material that resists degradation over time and extended use. For example, both the middle layer casing and middle layer core may resist degradation over time and extended use. The middle layer may also be flexible, such that the article is easy to fold, roll, or otherwise temporarily deform, while resisting permanent deformation over time with repeated use. For example, the middle layer core, the middle layer casing, or both may be flexible and resist permanent deformation over time with repeated use. The term "use" can include but is not limited to: use by the infant in the form of sleeping, playing, or being changed; folding or deforming the article repeatedly; soiling of the article from dirt, contact with wet surfaces, or the infant; storage; and cleaning of the article through wiping or washing.

[0027] The article may further include a fastening device. The fastening device may function to provide access to the middle layer from the outer layer, to prevent moisture from entering the middle layer, or both. The fastening device may be a zipper, hook and loop such as Velcro®, snaps, buttons, or other fastener that is able be repeatedly used to open and close off access to the middle layer. Preferably, the fastening device includes a zipper so that there are no gaps between the top layer and the bottom layer, so as to resist moisture from accessing the middle layer. The fastening device may be located on one side, two sides, three sides, or up to all sides of the article. The fastening device may partially or fully attach the top layer to the bottom layer. When the fastening device is in the closed position, the middle layer of the article can be protected from exterior elements such as water or dirt. The user may open the fastening device to remove the middle layer from the outer layer, permitting the middle layer and/or outer layer to be cleaned, such as by washing and drying.

[0028] The article can include a handling feature to more easily position the article onto a surface. The handling feature can aid an individual in manipulating the article while holding or controlling another object, such as holding an infant. For example, the article can be easily laid flat and opened with only one hand. The handling feature can be in the form of a tag or a loop. The handling feature may be attached to the middle layer and exposed, attached to the outer layer, or attached to both the middle and outer layer. The handling feature can be located on a side of the mat. The handling feature can be sized such that an individual's hand or one or more fingers can grasp the handling feature to position the mat onto a surface. [0029] The article may include a carrying feature to more easily transport the article. The carrying feature can be a feature that can rest on an individual's wrist or shoulder. The carrying feature can allow for an individual's hands to be free for activities such as holding an infant, pushing a stroller, or carrying another object, such as a diaper bag or purse. The carrying feature can be a separate carrying bag or sack that the article is placed into, one or more straps attached directly onto the article, or one or more loops. Preferably, the carrying feature includes one or more straps attached directly onto the article (i.e. the article sides, middle layer, outer layer, or a combination thereof) which can be worn on a user's shoulder for easier transportation without requiring an additional carrying bag. For example, two straps may be located on opposing sides of the article, such that the article may be folded in half and the two straps may be used to carry the article. If the carrying feature is a feature such as a carrying bag, the carrying feature may be designed such that the article may be placed within the carrying feature in its original shape, folded, and/or rolled up.

[0030] The outer layer of the article may further include pockets. The pockets can be formed from the same or a different material as the outer layer. The pockets can provide storage such that the article can also serve as an infant diaper bag when the article is folded. The pockets can be used for storage of infant-related products such as a pacifier, spare diapers, toys, and infant hygiene products.

[0031] The article may further comprise materials which are compliant with the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act. It is preferred that the article consist essentially of materials compliant with the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act. The materials of the article may be substantially free of toxic materials. Specifically, the article may be free of polyvinyl chloride, ethylene-vinyl acetate, formamide, or other pre- treated hazardous materials such as fire retardants.

[0032] One exemplary use of the article is as a play or sleeping surface. If the article is folded or rolled up for storage, upon resting it on a surface such as the ground or the bottom surface of a portable crib, the article resumes its original shape and lays flat on the surface. The article requires no additional force or manipulation from an individual to resume its original shape. Once the article is flat, an infant may be placed on the upper or top surface of the mat. The upper or top surface provides a soft surface for the infant. The infant may then sleep, play, and/or participate in developmental activities such as tummy time or playing with educational infant toys. The article may then be removed from the surface, folded for storage or transportation to another location.

[0033] A second exemplary use of the article is as a changing surface. The article may be folded in half, lengthwise, such that the lower surface or bottom layer is exposed and facing outward, and at least a portion of the upper surface or top layer lies in direct planar contact with an adjacent portion of the upper surface. In this folded position, the lower surface which is water-resistant and easily cleanable is exposed. An infant may be rested on this exposed surface and can have their undergarments or other clothing changed. If the infant soils the exposed surface, it can be easily wiped cleaned and sanitized. If prior to folding, the lower surface was exposed to a surface such as the ground outside, the surface can be sanitized, such as by wiping clean, prior to use. Once the infant is changed and the exposed surface is sanitized if necessary, the article can be folded for storage or transportation, or the article will resume its original shape and the infant can be placed on the upper surface to resume playing or sleeping.

[0034] A third exemplary use of the article is as a changing surface without folding such as in the preceding example. If the article is folded or rolled up for storage, upon resting it on a surface such as the ground or the bottom surface of a portable crib, the article resumes its original shape and lays flat on the surface. The article requires no additional force or manipulation from an individual to resume its original shape.

Once the article is flat, an individual may flip the mat over so that the bottom surface is facing up. The lower surface provides a water-resistant surface that is easy to wipe clean. The infant can then be placed on the bottom surface and changed. After the infant has been changed, the exposed surface may be sanitized if necessary and the article and be folded or rolled up for storage or transportation to another location or the article may be flipped over such that the upper surface is exposed and the infant may be placed on the upper surface to play or sleep.

[0035] One exemplary method of assembling or manufacturing the article is described hereafter. First the outer layer and middle layer are formed. The outer layer can be formed by cutting one or more materials. The outer layer can be formed from at least two or more separate sections of material, one section dedicated for the upper surface or top layer and another section dedicated or the lower surface or bottom layer. The top layer material can be selected to be a soft, machine washable material such as polyester fleece. The bottom layer material can be selected such that it is water- resistant, easy to wipe clean, and machine washable, such as a polyester laminate or polyurethane laminate. The middle layer can be formed by cutting or otherwise forming a selected material. The material for the middle layer can be selected to provide cushioning to an infant resting on the article, such as a foam or padding, another densified polyester. The middle layer can then be attached to a part of the outer layer, such as by affixing the middle layer underside of the top layer. The remainder of the outer layer can then enclose the remainder of the middle layer, such as by attaching bottom layer to the top layer around the sides of the article. For example, by stitching the bottom layer to the top layer around the sides of the article.

[0036] A second exemplary method of assembly or manufacturing the article begins with selecting and forming the materials as described in the previous step. Then the outer layer may be formed to create an enclosure for the middle layer, such as by partially attaching the top layer to the bottom layer and leaving an opening between the two layers permitting the middle layer to be inserted. A fastening device, such as a zipper, can then be attached to the outer layer at least partially around the sides. The middle layer is then inserted into the outer layer. The fastening device may then be closed to seal of access to the middle layer or the remaining opening may be

permanently sealed, such as by stitching it closed.

[0037] The following descriptions of the Figures are provided to illustrate the disclosure but are not intended to limit the scope thereof. [0038] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the article as described herein. Figure 1 illustrates the article 10 in its original shape. Shown is the outer layer 12 which comprises a top layer 14 or upper surface and a bottom layer 16 or lower surface. The top layer 14 can be made of a soft material. The shape of the article 10 is provided by a middle layer 24 (not visible) enclosed within the outer layer 12. A fastening device 18, such as a zipper, may provide access to the middle layer.

[0039] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the article 10 placed within an infant portable gym 20 or infant play gym. The article 10 has a width and length such that it substantially covers the bottom surface of the infant portable crib 20. The article 10 has a height provided by middle layer such that it provides an infant with a comfortable surface for sleeping and/or playing.

[0040] Figure 3 is a perspective view of an infant 22 using the article 10 as a changing surface. The article 10 is folded such that the bottom layer 16 is outwardly exposed and the top layer 14 lies in direct planar contact with an adjacent portion of the top layer 14. Before the infant is set on the article 10, a user may sanitize the bottom layer 16, such as by wiping clean. The user may then fold the article 10, exposing the bottom layer 16. After changing the infant 22, if the infant soils the bottom layer 16, the user may then sanitize the surface, such as by wiping clean. After pressure or force, such as from the infant's 22 weight or a user's hand, is removed from the article 10, the article 10 will resume its original shape or position, such as in Figure 1 , without having a permanent deformation (e.g., the article deforms elastically).

[0041] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the article 10 in an open position with the middle layer 24 and the outer layer 12 opened to receive the middle layer. The middle layer 24 is comprised of a middle layer core 26 and can include a middle layer casing 28. The middle layer core 26 can provide a cushioned surface for the infant 22 (not shown). The middle layer casing 28 can provide a partially water resistant protective barrier around the middle layer core 26. The outer layer 12 is opened by the fastening device 18 partially separating the top layer 14 from the bottom layer 16. By being open, the outer layer 12 is able to receive the middle layer 24 within. [0042] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the article 10 with the middle layer 24 partially inserted within the outer layer 12 with the outer layer 12 in an open position. The middle layer 24 is shown inside of the outer layer 12 with the bottom layer 16 and the top layer 14 partially surrounding the middle layer 24. The fastening device 18 is shown as a zipper which is then able close the outer layer 12 about the middle layer 24.

[0043] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the article 10 with the middle layer 24 beginning to be enclosed by the outer layer 12. Either during manufacturing or during use, after the middle layer 24 is inserted in the outer layer 12 of the article 10, the outer layer 12 is then enclosed around the middle layer 24. This can be achieved by first placing the top layer 14 or bottom layer 16 partially around the middle layer 24.

[0044] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the article 10 once the middle layer 24 is fully enclosed by the outer layer 12. After one side of the outer layer 12, such as the top layer 14 or bottom layer 16 is placed partially around the middle layer 24, such as in Fig. 6, the opposing top layer 14 or bottom layer 16 is placed partially around the middle layer 24. Then the fastening device 18 is moved about at least a portion of the periphery of the outer layer so as to fully enclose the middle layer 24, such as by connecting the top layer 14 to the bottom layer 16 where the top and bottom layer are not already connected.

[0045] Though not necessarily drawn to scale, geometries, relative proportions, and dimensions shown in the drawings are also part of the teachings herein, even if not explicitly recited. However, unless otherwise stated, nothing shall limited the teachings herein to the geometries, relative proportions, and dimensions shown in the drawings.

[0046] Unless stated otherwise, dimensions, and geometries of the various structures depicted herein are not intended to be restrictive of the invention, and other dimensions or geometries are possible. Plural structural components can be provided by a single integrated structure. Alternatively, a single integrated structure might be divided into separate plural components. In addition, while a feature of the present invention may have been described in the context of only one of the illustrated

embodiments, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of other

embodiments, for any given application. It will also be appreciated from the above that the fabrication of the unique structures herein and the operation thereof also constitute methods in accordance with the present invention.

[0047] The preferred embodiment of the present invention has been disclosed. A person of ordinary skill in the art would realize however, that certain modifications would come within the teachings of this invention. Therefore, the following claims should be studied to determine the true scope and content of the invention.

[0048] The explanations and illustrations presented herein are intended to acquaint others skilled in the art with the invention, its principles, and its practical application. Those skilled in the art may adapt and apply the invention in its numerous forms, as may be best suited to the requirements of a particular use. Accordingly, the specific embodiments of the present invention as set forth are not intended as being exhaustive or limiting of the invention. The scope of the invention should, therefore, be determined not with reference to the above description, but should instead be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. The disclosures of all articles and references, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated by reference for all purposes. Other combinations are also possible as will be gleaned from the following claims, which are also hereby incorporated by reference into this written description.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. An article comprising:

a) an outer layer;

b) a middle layer enclosed by the outer layer;

wherein the article yields to pressure and temporarily deforms without having permanent deformation; and

wherein the article is able to provide a sleeping, play, and changing surface for an infant.

2. The article of claim 1, wherein the article is sized to substantially cover a bottom surface of an infant portable crib or an infant play gym.

3. The article of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the article is equal to or smaller than a bottom surface of an infant portable crib, an infant play gym, or both.

4. The article of any one of claims 1 through 3, wherein the outer layer includes: a) a top layer adjacent to a surface of the middle layer; and

b) a bottom layer adjacent to an opposing surface of the middle layer.

5. The article of any one of claims 1 through 4, wherein the outer layer includes a fastening device which provides access to the middle layer.

6. The article of any one of claims 1 through 5, wherein the outer layer includes a fastening device that at least partially connects the top layer to the bottom layer and provides access to the middle layer.

7. The article of any one of claims 1 through 6, wherein the top layer includes a soft material.

8. The article of any one of claims 1 through 7, wherein the bottom layer includes a water-resistant material.

9. The article of any one of claims 1 through 8, wherein the middle layer includes a padding of sufficient thickness to provide the infant with a cushioned surface.

10. The article of any one of claims 1 through 9, wherein the middle layer is water resistant.

11. The article of any one of claims 1 through 10, wherein the article is rectangular in shape.

12. The article of any one of claims 1 through 11 , wherein the article is able to be folded such that the bottom layer is exposed and a portion of the top layer lies in direct planar contact with an adjacent portion of the top layer.

13. The article of any one of claims 1 through 12, wherein the middle layer includes: a) a middle layer casing; and

b) a middle layer core enclosed by the middle layer casing.

14. The article of any one of claims 1 through 13, wherein the outer layer is made of a machine washable material.

15. The article of any one of claims 1 through 14, wherein after the article is folded, the bottom layer is a changing surface for the infant.

16. The article of any one of claims 1 through 15, wherein the article when folded is about equal to or smaller than a conventional infant changing station.

17. The article of any one of claims 1 through 16, wherein the article when folded resumes an original unfolded shape without requiring additional force or pressure.

18. An article comprising:

a) a top layer made of a soft material capable of providing a comfortable surface for an infant for sleeping and playing;

b) a middle layer adjacent to the top layer including a padding of sufficient thickness to provide cushioning to the infant;

c) a bottom layer adjacent to the middle layer and opposite the top layer, made of a water-resistant material capable of providing a changing surface for the infant;

wherein the article yields to pressure and is able to temporarily deform without having a permanent deformation; and

the article is sized to fit a bottom surface of an infant portable crib, a play gym, or both.

19. A process of assembling the article of any of claims 1 through 18 comprising: a) forming the top layer, middle layer, and bottom layer;

b) enclosing the middle layer with the top layer and the bottom layer; and c) sealing off access to the middle layer either permanently or temporarily.

20. The article of any one of claims 1 through 18, wherein the bottom layer includes a water-resistant material suitable for a changing surface for the infant and includes a polyurethane laminate.