Machine-washable viscoelastic foam and devices made therefrom

Abstract

A cushioning device containing a machine-washable polyurethane viscoelastic foam.

Description

BACKGROUND[0001]1. Field[0002]Embodiments presented in this disclosure generally relate to polyurethane foams having viscoelastic properties. More specifically, embodiments pertain to machine-washable polyurethane viscoelastic foam and devices made therefrom.[0003]2. Description of the Related Art[0004]Viscoelastic foam, or “memory foam,” is produced by reaction of polyol and isocyanate compounds, which results in a polyurethane foam having viscoelastic properties. Such viscoelastic foam has diverse applications, including pillows, mattresses, and other bedding devices.[0005]Viscoelastic foam tends to absorb and retain water. As a result, devices made therefrom cannot easily be washed and dried. Typically, viscoelastic foam devices are covered using machine-washable covers (e.g., cotton covers). In such a conventional approach, the machine-washable covers are removed and laundered via an ordinary machine washing and drying cycle, while the viscoelastic foam devices themselves are ma...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention is a cushioning device made of polyurethane foam that can be washed in a machine. It has certain properties such as density, thickness, and ILD rating. The device has a fast recovery time and high airflow. This foam is ideal for use in cushioning materials that can be easily cleaned and maintained.

Problems solved by technology

As a result, devices made therefrom cannot easily be washed and dried.

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