Weighted blanket

Abstract

A weighted blanket includes an inner liner that is filled with weighted filler material and closed to limit movement of the weighted material within the inner liner. In some embodiments, the inner liner is securely sewn within an outer liner to prevent movement of the inner liner within the outer liner, thereby preventing the inner liner from becoming detached from the outer liner.

Description

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND[0001]The disclosure relates generally to blankets. More particularly, the disclosure relates to blankets having weighted filler material.BACKGROUND[0002]Autism spectrum disorders affect many children, adolescents, and adults. A number of persons who are affected by autism spectrum disorders also experience difficulties relaxing and sleeping. Sleep difficulties can be caused by various factors, including, for example, serotonin imbalance, insomnia, attention deficit / hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), restless leg syndrome (RLS), and various other geriatric and psychiatric conditions. Other conditions, such as fibromyalgia and Parkinson's Disease, may also contribute to sleep difficulties. Various interventions have been used to alleviate sleep difficulties in individuals with autism spectrum disorders, such as white noise and melatonin supplements.[0003]Weighted blankets have also been used to calm individuals with autism spectrum disorders and help them sleep. Such ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0006]According to various example embodiments, a weighted blanket includes an inner liner that is filled with weighted filler material and closed to limit movement of the weighted material within the inner liner. In some embodiments, the inner liner is securely sewn within an outer liner to prevent movement of the inner liner within the outer liner, thereby preventing the inner liner from becoming detached from the outer liner.

[0010]Various embodiments may provide certain advantages. For instance, certain embodiments described herein may provide a more even distribution of weighted filler material as compared with conventional weighted blankets. Further, with the inner lining securely attached to the outer lining, product safety is enhanced. In addition, certain embodiments may provide sensory deprivation or stimulation via the sound or absence of sound, depending on the choice of filling material, or via a sensory calming or stimulating experience imparted by the choice of fabric for the outer liner.

Problems solved by technology

Other conditions, such as fibromyalgia and Parkinson's Disease, may also contribute to sleep difficulties.

While weighted blankets have been somewhat effective in calming individuals with autism spectrum disorders, conventional designs have been characterized by a number of drawbacks.

Some conventional weighted blankets are characterized by uneven weight distribution or uneven pressure points due to, for example, weights that are spaced too far apart.

In addition, the craftsmanship of some conventional weighted blankets can result in certain disadvantages.

For example, in some cases, the thread that is used to sew the blankets can come loose, particularly when people pick at it.

This can cause the filling to fall out of the blanket relatively easily.

Besides damaging the exterior of the blanket, this can cause the filling to fall out of the blanket as well.

Images