Adjustable Bed System with Split Head Configuration

Abstract

This application relates to an adjustable bed system having a split head configuration. A sleep system includes a mattress that includes a movable first section that extends laterally along a first portion of the width of the mattress and longitudinally along a first portion of the length of the mattress, a movable second section that extends laterally along a second portion of the width of the mattress and longitudinally along the first portion of the length of the mattress, and a movable third section that extends generally transversely across the entire width of the mattress and longitudinally along a second portion of the length of the mattress, and an articulation system configured to articulate the first section, the second section, and the third section independently.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the application with the filing date of December 23, 2014, application number 201911002017.X, and invention title "Adjustable Bed System with Split Head Configuration".

[0002] The application with the filing date of December 23, 2014, application number 201911002017.X, and invention title "Adjustable Bed System with Split Head Configuration" is a divisional application of the application with the filing date of December 23, 2014, application number 201480076632.4, and invention title "Adjustable Bed System with Split Head Configuration". Background

[0003] A bed can be designed to be movable or adjustable to a number of positions rather than a traditional, flat, horizontal support surface. For example, a bed can include one or more articulable sections that can be raised or lowered, such as to adjust the position of a user's head and upper torso, or to adjust the position of a user's legs, or to adjust both the position of a user's head and upper torso and the position of a user's legs. In a bed designed for two users, such as a queen or king size bed, the bed can also be configured to be adjustable. However, typically an adjustable two-person bed must be a single mattress where both sides of the bed must be adjusted in the same manner, or two separate adjustable mattresses positioned adjacent to each other.

[0004] Since an adjustable single mattress design may not allow independent control of each side of the bed and thus may not accommodate the position preferences of both users of a double bed simultaneously, the adjustable single mattress design may be undesirable. An adjustable design of separate mattresses can provide independent position control of each side of the bed, but, for example, for a couple, the adjustable design of separate mattresses is aesthetically unpleasing because it resembles a pair of single beds pushed together. Since there is a gap extending laterally along the middle of the bed between the two separate mattresses, the adjustable design of separate mattresses may also have functional problems, such as limited support for the bed's users along the gap.

[0005] Overview

[0006] The present disclosure relates to a sleep system sized and configured for two-person use, such as a queen or king-sized bed, that can provide independent adjustability on each side of the bed while still providing that at least a portion of the bed functions as a single, integral mattress. The sleep system can include a mattress, wherein at least a portion of the bed is longitudinally split between each side of the bed such that the split portion on each side can be adjusted independently of the split portion on the other side. The mattress also includes a second portion that is joined together generally across the full width of the bed (e.g., the longitudinal middle portion of the bed) to provide the aesthetic of a single-person mattress and to provide sufficient support to a user of the sleep system along the longitudinal central axis of the mattress. The sleep system described herein can include, for example, a split upper portion of the mattress and a common-joined lower portion of the mattress, the split upper portion of the mattress allowing for independent control of the upper regions of a user's body (e.g., the head and upper torso), and the common-joined lower portion of the mattress providing generally full support for a user's torso or middle torso and legs.

[0007] In an example, the sleep system includes a mattress and an articulating motion system, the mattress including a first sleep area for a first occupant and a second sleep area for a second occupant, the first sleep area including a first movable upper section and a first movable lower section, the second sleep area including a second movable upper section adjacent to the first movable upper section and a second movable lower section adjacent to the first lower section, wherein the first movable upper section is separated from and movable relative to the second movable upper section, and wherein the first movable lower section and the second movable lower section are joined together and move together, the articulating motion system for articulating the first movable upper section, the first movable lower section, the second movable upper section, and the second movable lower section, wherein the articulating motion system is configured to allow independent movement of the first movable upper section and the second movable upper section and to allow generally synchronous movement of the first movable lower section and the second movable lower section.

[0008] In another example, the sleep system includes a mattress and an articulating motion system, the mattress including a movable first section that extends laterally along a first portion of the width of the mattress and longitudinally along a first portion of the length of the mattress, a movable second section that extends laterally along a second portion of the width of the mattress and longitudinally along a first portion of the length of the mattress, and a movable third section that extends generally across the entire width of the mattress laterally and longitudinally along a second portion of the length of the mattress, the articulating motion system configured to independently articulate the first section, the second section, and the third section.

[0009] In yet another example, a sleep system includes a support frame, a mattress, an articulating motion system, a first user control device, and a second user control device. The mattress is configured to be positioned on the support frame and includes a movable first head section extending along a first portion of the length of the mattress, a movable second head section laterally adjacent the movable first section and longitudinally extending along the first portion of the length of the mattress, and a movable leg section longitudinally extending along a second portion of the length of the mattress. Wherein, a first sleep area for a first occupant includes the movable first head section and a first portion of the movable leg section, and wherein, a second sleep area for a second occupant includes the movable second head section and a second portion of the movable leg section. The articulating motion system includes a first head actuator for articulating the movable first head section, a second head actuator for articulating the movable second head section, at least one leg actuator for articulating the movable leg section, and at least one controller for controlling the first head actuator, the second head actuator, and the at least one leg actuator. The first user control device is configured to communicate with the at least one controller via a first communication link to control the articulation of the movable first head section and to control the articulation of the movable leg section. The second user control device is configured to communicate with the at least one controller via a second communication link to control the articulation of the movable second head section and to control the articulation of the movable leg section.

[0010] In an example, a method for controlling an articulated motion bed includes: sending a first movement control signal from a first user control device to one or more controllers, wherein the first movement control signal includes one or more commands to move a first movable section of a mattress to a selected one of a plurality of positions, wherein the first movable section extends transversely across a first portion of the width of the mattress and longitudinally along a first portion of the length of the mattress; sending a first actuator control signal from the one or more controllers triggered by the first movement control signal to a first articulated motion actuator; moving the first movable section to a selected one of the plurality of positions of the first movable section by the first articulated motion actuator according to the first actuator control signal; sending a second movement control signal from a second user control device to one or more controllers, wherein the second movement control signal includes one or more commands to move a second movable section of the mattress to a selected one of a plurality of positions of the second movable section, wherein the second movable section extends transversely adjacent to the first movable section and transversely across a second portion of the width of the mattress and longitudinally along a first portion of the length of the mattress; sending a second actuator control signal from the one or more controllers triggered by the second movement control signal to a second articulated motion actuator; moving the second movable section to a selected one of the plurality of positions of the second movable section by the second articulated motion actuator according to the second actuator control signal; sending a third movement control signal from one of the first user control device and the second user control device to one or more controllers, wherein the third movement control signal includes one or more commands to move a third movable section of the mattress to a selected one of a plurality of positions, wherein the third movable section extends longitudinally along a second portion of the length of the mattress; sending a third actuator control signal from the one or more controllers triggered by the third movement control signal to a third articulated motion actuator configured to apply a force at a first position of the third movable section; sending a fourth actuator control signal from the one or more controllers triggered by the third movement control signal to a fourth articulated motion actuator configured to apply a force at a second position of the third movable section; and moving the third movable section to a selected one of a plurality of positions, wherein the third actuator control signal and the fourth actuator control signal are configured such that the movement of the third articulated motion actuator and the movement of the fourth articulated motion actuator are substantially synchronized such that the movement of the third movable section across the width of the mattress is substantially uniform.

[0011] This application also relates to the following aspects:

[0012] 1). A sleep system, comprising:

[0013] A mattress, comprising:

[0014] A first sleep area for a first occupant, the first sleep area including a first movable upper section and a first movable lower section;

[0015] A second sleep area for a second occupant, the second sleep area including a second movable upper section adjacent to the first movable upper section and a second movable lower section adjacent to the first movable lower section;

[0016] Wherein the first movable upper section is separated from the second movable upper section and is movable relative to the second movable upper section;

[0017] Wherein the first movable lower section and the second movable lower section are coupled together and move together; and

[0018] An articulated motion system for articulating the first movable upper section, the first movable lower section, the second movable upper section, and the second movable lower section;

[0019] Wherein the articulated motion system is configured to allow independent movement of the first movable upper section and the second movable upper section and allow substantially synchronous movement of the first movable lower section and the second movable lower section.

[0020] 2). The sleep system according to 1), wherein the articulated motion system includes:

[0021] A first actuator for articulating the first movable upper section;

[0022] A second actuator for articulating the second movable upper section;

[0023] One or more third actuators for articulating the first movable lower section and the second movable lower section; and

[0024] One or more controllers for controlling the movement of the first actuator, the second actuator, and the one or more third actuators.

[0025] 3). The sleep system according to 1) or 2), wherein the articulated motion system includes:

[0026] A first actuator configured to articulate the first movable lower section;

[0027] A second actuator configured to articulate the second movable lower section; and

[0028] A controller configured to send one or more first motion control signals to the first actuator and one or more second motion control signals to the second actuator, wherein the first motion control signals and the second motion control signals are configured such that the first actuator and the second actuator operate in a substantially synchronous manner.

[0029] 4). The sleep system according to 1), 2) or 3), further comprising a first user control device and a second user control device, the first user control device being configured to communicate with the articulation system to control the articulation of the first movable upper section, and the second user control device being configured to communicate with the articulation system to control the articulation of the second movable upper section.

[0030] 5). The sleep system according to 4), wherein the first user control device is further configured to control the articulation of the substantially synchronous movement of the first movable lower section and the second movable lower section.

[0031] 6). The sleep system according to 4) or 5), wherein the second user control device is further configured to control the articulation of the substantially synchronous movement of the first movable lower section and the second movable lower section.

[0032] 7). The sleep system according to 1), 2), 3), 4), 5) or 6), further comprising:

[0033] One or more first support structures within the first sleep area, the one or more first support structures for providing support to a first occupant, wherein a first portion of the one or more first support structures is included in the first movable upper section and a second portion of the one or more first support structures is included in the first movable lower section; and

[0034] One or more second support structures within the second sleep area, the one or more second support structures for providing support to a second occupant, wherein a first portion of the one or more second support structures is included in the second movable upper section and a second portion of the one or more second support structures is included in the second movable lower section.

[0035] 8). The sleep system according to 7), wherein the one or more first support structures include at least one of the following: one or more air chambers, a plurality of innersprings, and one or more foam structures.

[0036] 9). The sleep system according to 7) or 8), wherein the one or more second support structures include at least one of the following: one or more air chambers, a plurality of innersprings, and one or more foam structures.

[0037] 10). The sleep system according to 1), 4), 5), 6), 7), 8) or 9), wherein the articulated motion system includes:

[0038] A first actuator configured to articulate the first movable upper section;

[0039] A second actuator configured to articulate the second movable upper section;

[0040] A third actuator and a fourth actuator configured to articulate the first movable lower section; and

[0041] A controller configured to send one or more first motion control signals to the first actuator, send one or more second motion control signals to the second actuator, and send one or more third motion signals to the third actuator and the fourth actuator, wherein the third motion signal is configured to cause the third actuator and the fourth actuator to operate in a substantially synchronous manner.

[0042] 11). The sleep system according to 10), wherein the first actuator includes a first articulating motor, the second actuator includes a second articulating motor, the third actuator includes a third articulating motor, and the fourth actuator includes a fourth articulating motor.

[0043] 12). A sleep system, comprising:

[0044] A mattress, comprising:

[0045] A movable first section that extends laterally along a first portion of the width of the mattress and longitudinally along a first portion of the length of the mattress;

[0046] A movable second section that extends laterally along a second portion of the width of the mattress and longitudinally along the first portion of the length of the mattress; and

[0047] A movable third section that extends laterally across substantially the entire width of the mattress and longitudinally along a second portion of the length of the mattress; and

[0048] An articulated motion system configured to articulate the movable first section, the movable second section, and the movable third section independently.

[0049] 13). The sleep system according to 12), wherein the articulated motion system comprises:

[0050] A first actuator for articulating the movable first section;

[0051] A second actuator for articulating the movable second section;

[0052] One or more third actuators for articulating the movable third section; and

[0053] One or more controllers for controlling the movement of the first actuator, the second actuator, and the one or more third actuators.

[0054] 14). The sleep system according to 12) or 13), wherein the articulated motion system comprises:

[0055] A first actuator positioned on a first outer side of the mattress;

[0056] A second actuator positioned on a second outer side of the mattress, wherein the first actuator and the second actuator cooperate to articulate the movable third section; and

[0057] A controller configured to send one or more first motion control signals to the first actuator and one or more second motion control signals to the second actuator, wherein the first motion control signal and the second motion control signal are configured such that the first actuator and the second actuator operate in a substantially synchronous manner.

[0058] 15). The sleep system according to 12), 13) or 14), further comprising a first user control device configured to communicate with the articulated motion system to control the articulation of the movable first section.

[0059] 16). The sleep system according to 15), wherein the first user control device is further configured to control the articulation of the movable third section.

[0060] 17). The sleep system according to 15) or 16), further comprising a second user control device configured to communicate with the articulated motion system to control the articulation of the movable second section.

[0061] 18). The sleep system according to 17), wherein the second user control device is further configured to control the articulated movement of the movable third section.

[0062] 19). The sleep system according to 12), 1), 14), 15), 16), 17) or 18) further comprises:

[0063] One or more first support structures included within the movable first section and a first portion of the movable third section; and

[0064] One or more second support structures within the movable second section and a second portion of the movable third section.

[0065] 20). The sleep system according to 19), wherein the one or more first support structures include at least one of the following: one or more air chambers, a plurality of innersprings, and one or more foam structures.

[0066] 21). The sleep system according to 19) or 20), wherein the one or more second support structures include at least one of the following: one or more air chambers, a plurality of innersprings, and one or more foam structures.

[0067] 22). The sleep system according to 12), 13), 14), 15), 16), 17), 18), 19), 20) or 21) further comprises a fourth section that extends transversely across the entire width of the mattress and longitudinally along a third portion of the length of the mattress, wherein the third portion of the length is longitudinally located between the first portion and the second portion of the length.

[0068] 23). The sleep system according to 12), 15), 16), 17), 18), 19), 20), 21) or 22), wherein the articulated movement system comprises:

[0069] A first actuator for causing the articulated movement of the movable first section;

[0070] A second actuator for causing the articulated movement of the movable second section;

[0071] A third actuator and a fourth actuator configured to cause the articulated movement of the movable third section; and

[0072] A controller configured to send one or more first motion control signals to the first actuator, send one or more second motion control signals to the second actuator, and send one or more third motion signals to the third actuator and the fourth actuator, wherein the third motion signal is configured to cause the third actuator and the fourth actuator to operate in a substantially synchronous manner.

[0073] 24). The sleep system according to 23), wherein the first actuator includes a first motor causing articulated movement, the second actuator includes a second motor causing articulated movement, the third actuator includes a third motor causing articulated movement, and the fourth actuator includes a fourth motor causing articulated movement.

[0074] 25). A sleep system, comprising:

[0075] A support frame;

[0076] A mattress configured to be placed on the support frame, the mattress comprising;

[0077] A movable first head section extending along a first portion of the length of the mattress;

[0078] A movable second head section laterally adjacent to the movable first head section and longitudinally extending along the first portion of the length of the mattress; and

[0079] A movable leg section longitudinally extending along a second portion of the length of the mattress;

[0080] Wherein a first sleep area for a first occupant includes the movable first head section and a first portion of the movable leg section, and wherein a second sleep area for a second occupant includes the movable second head section and a second portion of the movable leg section;

[0081] An articulated movement system, comprising;

[0082] A first head actuator for causing articulated movement of the movable first head section;

[0083] A second head actuator for causing articulated movement of the movable second head section;

[0084] At least one leg actuator for causing articulated movement of the movable leg section; and

[0085] At least one controller for controlling the first head actuator, the second head actuator, and the at least one leg actuator;

[0086] A first user control device configured to communicate with the at least one controller via a first communication link to control the articulated movement of the movable first head section and to control the articulated movement of the movable leg section; and

[0087] A second user control device configured to communicate with the at least one controller via a second communication link to control the articulated movement of the movable second head section and to control the articulated movement of the movable leg section.

[0088] These and other examples and features of the system and method will be set forth in part in the following detailed description. This summary is intended to provide an overview of the subject matter and is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive description. The following detailed description is included to provide additional information regarding the system and invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0089] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary two-person sleep system including an adjustable bed having a split upper portion and a joined lower portion, where both sides of the bed are shown in a horizontal or flat position.

[0090] Figure 2 is Figure 1 a perspective view of the exemplary sleep system of

[0091] Figure 3 is Figure 1 and Figure 2 a side view of the exemplary sleep system of

[0092] Figure 4 is Figures 1-3 a top view of the exemplary sleep system of

[0093] Figure 5 is a top view of another exemplary two-person sleep system including an adjustable bed having a split upper portion and a joined lower portion.

[0094] Figure 6 is a top view of another exemplary two-person sleep system including an adjustable bed having a split upper portion and a joined lower portion.

[0095] Figures 7A-7C is a flow chart of an exemplary method for controlling a sleep system.

[0096] Figure 8is a perspective view of an exemplary two-person sleep system that includes an adjustable bed having a split upper portion, a split lower portion, and a joined middle portion, where the sides of the bed are shown in a horizontal or flat position.

[0097] Figure 9 is Figure 8 a perspective view of an exemplary sleep system, where the head portion and the leg portion of one side in the sides of the bed are raised.

[0098] Figure 10 is Figure 8 and Figure 9 a side view of an exemplary sleep system, where the head portion and the leg portion of one side in the sides of the bed are raised.

[0099] Figure 11 is Figures 8-10 a top view of an exemplary sleep system.

[0100] Figure 12 is a top view of another exemplary two-person sleep system that includes an adjustable bed having a split upper portion, a split lower portion, and a joined middle portion.

[0101] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary controller for an actuator to control an adjustable sleep system.

[0102] Figure 14 is a perspective view of an exemplary sheet configured to cover an exemplary mattress having a split upper portion, a split lower portion, and a joined middle portion.

[0103] Figure 15 is Figure 14 a top view of a close-up of an exemplary sheet. Detailed Description

[0104] The present disclosure describes a sleep system that includes an adjustable bed configured for sharing by two occupants. The adjustable bed can be configured such that at least a first portion of each side (e.g., left side and right side) of the bed can be independently adjusted by the occupant of each particular side of the bed, e.g., such that each occupant can select a particular one or more positions of his or her preference, while a second portion of each side is joined together with a corresponding portion of the other side of the bed. The adjustability of the first portion of each side and the joined nature of the second portion can allow a user to independently control the position of the first portion of his or her side of the bed and can provide an integral mattress at the second portion of the bed, which can provide better combined support across both sides of the bed.

[0105] Figure 1 and Figure 2A perspective view of an exemplary sleep system 10 is shown. The sleep system 10 can include a bed 12 configured and intended to be used by two occupants (a first occupant 14 and a second occupant 16). The bed 12 can include a mattress 18 supported by a frame 19. The bed 12 can be conceptually divided into a first sleep area 20 for the first occupant 14 located on a first side of the bed 12 (e.g., Figure 1 and Figure 2 the left side in Figure 1 and Figure 2 the right side in) and a second sleep area 22 for the second occupant 16 located on a second side of the bed 12 (e.g.,

[0106] At least a portion of each of the sleep areas 20, 22 can be movable or articulable between a plurality of positions to provide the occupants 14, 16 with the ability to select preferred positions for comfort and special purposes. Each of the sleep areas 20, 22 can include one or more articulable segments. In an example, the first sleep area 20 can include a segment 24 (referred to herein as the first head segment 24) that can be raised and lowered to adjust the position of the head or upper torso or both of the first occupant 14, a segment 26 (referred to herein as the first leg segment 26) that can be raised or lowered to adjust the position of the legs or lower torso or both of the first occupant 14, and a segment 28 (referred to herein as the first middle segment 28) longitudinally positioned between the first head segment 24 and the first leg segment 26. Similarly, the second sleep area 22 can include a segment 30 (referred to herein as the second head segment 30) adjacent to the first head segment 24 that can be raised and lowered to adjust the position of the head or upper torso or both of the second occupant 16; a segment 32 (referred to herein as the second leg segment 32) adjacent to the first leg segment 26 that can be raised and lowered to adjust the position of the legs or lower torso or both of the second occupant 16; and a segment 34 (referred to herein as the second middle segment 34) adjacent to the first middle segment 28 and longitudinally positioned between the second head segment 30 and the second leg segment 32. Depending on the desired operability of the bed 12, the middle segments 28, 34 can be configured to support the body regions of the occupants 14, 16 (e.g., the middle torso around the waist and a portion of the thighs), and the middle segments 28, 34 can be configured to be movable (e.g., raised and lowered), or can be configured to be stationary and configured to remain in the same position and orientation throughout the operation of the bed.

[0107] As Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the mattress 18 can be configured such that a first portion of the first sleep region 20 and a corresponding adjacent first portion of the second sleep region 22 are independently articulable, and vice versa, such that a first portion of the second sleep region 22 and a corresponding first portion of the first sleep region 20 are independently articulable. In the examples shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the first head section 24 and the second head section 30 are adjacent to each other and can be articulated up or down independently of each other. The independent articulation of the head sections 24, 30 can be provided by an intermediate slit 36 that extends longitudinally from the upper end 38 of the mattress 18. As described in more detail below, each of the head sections 24, 30 can be articulated by one or more actuators (e.g., one or more motors that can cause articulation), such that each head section 24, 30 is an independently movable section of the mattress 18.

[0108] The mattress 18 can also be configured such that a second portion of the first sleep region 20 and a corresponding second portion of the second sleep region 22 are joined together and configured to move together in a generally synchronous manner. For example, as shown in the mattress 18 of Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the intermediate sections 28, 34 are joined together as a generally integral intermediate section, and the leg sections 24, 32 are joined together as a generally integral leg section, such that the sections 24, 28, 32, 34 together resemble a single joined lower section 40 of the mattress 18. As described in more detail below, one or both of the leg sections 26, 32 and the intermediate sections 28, 34 of each sleep region 20, 22 can be articulated by one or more actuators (e.g., one or more motors that can cause articulation), such that the sections 24, 28, 32, 34 can together act as a single movable joined lower section 40.

[0109] As best seen in Figure 4 , the mattress 18 can include a movable first section (e.g., the first head section 24) that extends transversely along a first portion W of the entire width W of the mattress 18 A and longitudinally along a first portion L of the entire length L of the mattress 18 A1 . Similarly, the mattress 18 can include a movable second section (e.g., the second head section 30) that extends transversely along a second portion W of the width W of the mattress 18 A and longitudinally along a second portion L of the length L of the mattress A1 . A and extends longitudinally along a first portion L of the length L of the mattress A2 . AThe first part L that is the same as the first movable section (e.g., the first head section 24) A1 extends longitudinally. The mattress 18 may also include a movable third section (e.g., the joined lower section 40 formed by the joined and generally integral first leg section 26, second leg section 32, first intermediate section 28, and second intermediate section 34), which generally spans the entire width W of the mattress 18 A extends transversely and along the length L of the mattress 18 A The second part L A2 extends longitudinally.

[0110] Figure 2 and Figure 3 Each shows a perspective view and a side view of an exemplary configuration of the bed 12, in which the first sleep area 20 is in a first configuration and the second sleep area 22 is in a second configuration. For example, as shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the first sleep area 20 includes a first part that is articulately movable relative to the remainder of the first sleep area 20 (e.g., the part of the first sleep area 20 that is independently movable relative to the corresponding first section of the second sleep area 22). Shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3 The example in shows a first head section 24 that is elevated relative to the horizontal position ( Figure 1 ). In the example shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the second sleep area 22 is in a flat configuration, in which the second head part section 30, second intermediate section 34, and second leg section 32 are in a horizontal or generally horizontal orientation. Thus, Figure 2 and Figure 3 The second sleep area 22 in is in the same or generally the same configuration as the second sleep area 22 in Figure 1 .

[0111] The sleep system 10 may also include a pair of user control devices 42, 44 to allow each occupant 14, 16 to control the articulation of his or her respective sleep areas 20, 22. As shown in Figures 1-3As shown, the sleep system 10 can include a first user control device 42 (e.g., a first handheld remote control device 42) that has been programmed to control the operation of the first sleep area 20, and a second user control device 44 (e.g., a second handheld remote control device 44) that has been programmed to control the operation of the second sleep area 22. The first occupant 14 can use the first remote control device 42 to control the operation of the first sleep area 20 on which the first occupant 14 lies, and the second occupant 16 can use the second remote control device 44 to control the operation of the second sleep area 22 on which the second occupant 16 lies. To ensure an appropriate link between each remote control device 42, 44 and the corresponding sleep area 20, 22, each remote control device 42, 44 can include an address or other unique identifier, such as to distinguish the first remote control device 42 from the second remote control device 44.

[0112] In an example, the first occupant 14 can select, via the first remote control device 42, to control the articulation of the first head section 24 up or down by a certain amount. The first remote control device 42 can also be configured to control the articulation of the engaged lower section 40 (e.g., control the articulation of one or both of the engaged leg sections 26, 32 and the engaged intermediate sections 28, 34), such as to move the leg sections 26, 32 up or down by a certain amount. The second occupant 16 can select, via the second remote control device 44, to control the articulation of the second head section 30 up or down by a certain amount. The second remote control device 44 can also be configured to control the articulation of the engaged lower section 40 (e.g., control the articulation of one or both of the engaged leg sections 26, 32 and the engaged intermediate sections 28, 34). In an example, the articulation of the engaged lower section 40 can be controlled by only the first remote control device 42, only the second remote control device 44, or by both the first remote control device 42 and the second remote control device 44.

[0113] In an example, the articulation of the head sections 24, 28 or the engaged lower section 40 or both can be controlled to occur continuously between a minimum height or orientation and a maximum height or orientation or along a discrete set of positions. For example, the head sections 24, 28 and the engaged lower section 40 can articulate from a minimum height position (e.g., flat) to a maximum height position (e.g., where the head sections 24, 28 are at a maximum angle (e.g., about 60°) with respect to the horizontal plane, or where the leg sections 26, 32 form a maximum angle (e.g., about 45°) with respect to the horizontal plane).

[0114] The sleep system 10 may also be configured such that each sleep area 20, 22 can be placed in one or more predetermined or preset positions. For each preset position, the head sections 24, 28 (and in some examples, the joined lower section 40) can be moved to a predetermined position or orientation. Examples of each preset position that can be programmed into the sleep system 10 include, but are not limited to:

[0115] (a) A flat preset, for example, where the head sections 24, 28 and the joined lower section 40 are in a horizontal or substantially horizontal orientation;

[0116] (b) A "reading" preset, for example, where the head sections 24, 28 are in a position elevated or angled relative to the horizontal plane to allow the occupants 14, 16 to read a book, magazine, or other written material. The reading preset may also include elevating a portion of the joined lower section 40 to make reading more comfortable for the occupants 14, 16;

[0117] (c) A "TV" preset, for example, where the head sections 24, 28 are elevated or angled relative to the horizontal plane at an angle different from the "reading" preset to allow the occupants 14, 16 to comfortably watch TV. The TV preset may also include elevating a portion of the joined lower section 40 to make viewing more comfortable for the occupants 14, 16; and

[0118] (d) A "snoring" preset, for example, a position that reduces snoring of the occupants 14, 16. It has been found that in some cases, snoring can be reduced or prevented by slightly elevating the head or torso of the snorer. When the soft tissues become relaxed during sleep, slightly elevating the head or torso of the snorer can reduce the vibration of the soft tissues in the back of the user's mouth or throat. A slight elevation of the snorer's body can also cause the snorer to change his or her sleeping position, which can stop snoring. In an example, the "snoring preset" can be configured to elevate the head sections 24, 28 at a small angle from the horizontal plane of from about 5° to about 15° (e.g., about 7°).

[0119] Figure 4 A top view of the sleep system 10 is shown. As Figure 4As shown, the sleep system 10 may include an articulation system 50 for controlling the articulation of the articulable sections 24, 30, 40. The articulation system 50 may include a set of articulation actuators, where each articulable section is caused to articulate by one or more of the actuators. Examples of actuators that may be used to articulate the articulable sections 24, 30, 40 may include one or more motors. For example, a first head motor 52 may be configured to articulate the first head section 24 of the first sleep area 20, and a second head motor 54 may be configured to articulate the second head section 30 of the second sleep area 22. One or more leg motors may be configured to articulate the joined lower section 40. For example, as Figure 4 shown, the joined lower section 40 may be articulated by a first leg motor 56A on the first side of the mattress 18 (e.g., to articulate the first leg section 26 on the side of the first sleep area 20) and a second leg motor 56B on the second side of the mattress 18 (e.g., to articulate the second leg section on the side of the second sleep area 22).

[0120] As described in more detail below, the articulated motion system 50 can be configured to control one or more leg motors 56A, 56B such that the articulated motion of the engaged lower section 40 is generally uniform. As used herein, the term "generally uniform" can refer to the articulated motion of the engaged lower section 40 such that when the lower section 40 is articulated upwardly or downwardly, a reference line extending transversely across the engaged lower section 40 will remain in a generally horizontally level position (e.g., generally parallel to the surface on which the sleep system 10 is disposed). In an example, the articulated motion system 50 can be configured to control the one or more leg motors 56A, 56B such that the articulated motion of the first leg section 26 and the second leg section 32 is generally synchronous. As used herein, the term "generally synchronous" can refer to each point on the first leg section 26 being in a generally the same vertical position as a corresponding point on the second leg section 32 at generally the same time, and in an example, such that the heights of the first leg section 26 and the second leg section 32 are generally consistent. In an example, "generally synchronous" can refer to each point of a first movable section being in the same vertical position as a corresponding point of a generally synchronous second movable section such that a horizontal line extending transversely across the generally synchronous sections is in a generally horizontally level position during the articulation of the sections, e.g., such that the horizontal line is generally parallel to the surface on which the sleep system is disposed. "Generally synchronous" can also refer to an actuator or actuators configured to articulate generally synchronous sections being configured to move generally the same amount during generally the same time period such that the generally synchronous sections appear to move as a single unit.

[0121] The mattress 18 can include one or more support structures for supporting the occupants 14, 16 within the movable first section (e.g., the first head section 24), the movable second section (e.g., the second head section 30), and the engaged third section (e.g., the engaged lower section 40). In an example, the mattress 18 can include a set of one or more support structures (e.g., one or more first air chambers) for the first sleep area 20, e.g., the set of one or more support structures being carried within a housing forming the first movable section (e.g., the first head section 24) and a first portion of the third section (e.g., the portion of the engaged lower section 40 that forms the portion of the first sleep area 20). The mattress 18 can also include one or more second support structures (e.g., one or more second air chambers) for the second sleep area 22, e.g., the one or more second support structures being carried within a portion of the housing forming the second movable section (e.g., the second head section 30) and a second portion of the third section (e.g., the portion of the engaged lower section 40 that forms the portion of the second sleep area 22).

[0122] The articulated motion system 50 may also include one or more controllers, e.g., a control box including electronics and hardware for providing instructions to motors 52, 54, 56A, 56B that cause articulated motion. Figure 4 is a top view of an exemplary sleep system 10, showing an articulated motion system 50 including a single common controller 60 configured to control each of the sleep areas 20, 22, e.g., each of the motors 52, 54, 56A, 56B that cause articulated motion. Each remote control device 42, 44 may communicate with the controller 60, such as via wireless communication links 62, 64. The remote control devices 42, 44 may send movement control signals to the controller 60 via the communication links 62, 64. As used herein, a "movement control signal" may refer to one or more signals sent from the remote control devices 42, 44 to the controller 60 corresponding to a particular movement or position of one or more of the articulable segments 24, 30, 40. The movement control signal may include one or more instructions for: the direction of movement of a particular articulable segment 24, 30, 40 (e.g., the direction of movement of the corresponding motor 52, 54, 56A, 56B that causes articulated motion), the speed of movement of a particular articulable segment 24, 30, 40 or a particular motor 52, 54, 56A, 56B that causes articulated motion, or the overall position (such as a preset position) of the corresponding sleep area 20, 22 controlled by the remote control devices 42, 44.

[0123] The controller 60 can send one or more motor control signals corresponding to the desired actions of each of the motors 52, 54, 56A, 56B that cause articulated movement to one or more of the motors 52, 54, 56A, 56B that cause articulated movement. As used herein, "motor control signal" can refer to one signal or a plurality of signals sent from a controller such as controller 60 to one or more motors 52, 54, 56A, 56B that cause articulated movement and corresponding to a particular movement or position of one or more articulable sections 24, 30, 40. One or more motor control signals can include instructions for one or both of the direction in which each of the motors 52, 54, 56A, 56B that cause articulated movement should articulate and the speed at which the motors 52, 54, 56A, 56B that cause articulated movement should travel. In an example, a plurality of communication cables 66A, 66B, 66C, and 66D (collectively referred to herein as "cables 66" or "the plurality of cables 66") can transmit motor control signals from the controller 60 to the motors 52, 54, 56A, 56B that cause articulated movement, where each cable 66 corresponds to a particular motor (e.g., the first cable 66A for the first head motor 52, the second cable 66B for the second head motor 54, the third cable 66C for one leg motor 56A, and the fourth cable 66D for the other leg motor 56B).

[0124] In another example, the sleep system 70 can include an articulated movement system 72 having more than a single common controller. In the example shown in Figure 5 each sleep area 20, 22 can have its own controller. For example, a first controller 74A corresponds to the upper or head portion of the mattress 18, for example, by being configured to control the first head motor 52 and the second head motor 54, and a second controller 74B corresponds to the lower or leg portion of the mattress 18, for example, by being configured to control the leg motors 56A, 56B. In such an example, each remote control device 42, 44 can be linked to the two controllers 74A, 74B via one or more wireless communication links 62, 64, and each controller 74A, 74B can be configured to respond to commands issued from the two remote control devices 42, 44, depending on which remote control device 42, 44 sends the command.

[0125] For example, if a first occupant 14 desires to articulately move his or her head and upper torso upward or downward, he or she can make a selection on the first remote control device 42, which can cause a movement control signal from the first remote control device 42 to be transmitted via the wireless communication link 62A to the first controller 74A, which in turn can send a motor control signal to the first head motor 52. Similarly, if the first occupant 14 desires to articulately move his or her feet, he or she can make a selection on the first remote control device 42, which can cause a movement control signal to be transmitted via the wireless communication link 62B to the second controller 74B, which in turn can send a motor control signal to the leg motors 56A, 56B. For example, if a second occupant 14 desires to articulately move his or her head and upper torso upward or downward, he or she can make a selection on the second remote control device 44, which can cause a movement control signal from the second remote control device 44 to be transmitted via the wireless communication link 64A to the first controller 74A, which in turn can send a motor control signal to the second head motor 54. Similarly, if the second occupant 16 desires to articulately move his or her feet, he or she can make a selection on the second remote control device 44, which can cause a movement control signal to be transmitted via the wireless communication link 64B to the second controller 74B, which in turn can send a motor control signal to the leg motors 56A, 56B.

[0126] In Figure 6 another exemplary sleep system 80 shown, each of the independent controllers 84A, 84B can be linked to a corresponding remote control device 42, 44, and each controller can be configured to control a corresponding one of the sleep areas 20, 22. For example, the first independent controller 84A can be configured to control the position of the first sleep area 20 by controlling the first head motor 52 and the first leg motor 56A. The second controller 84B can be configured to control the position of the second sleep area 22 by controlling the second head motor 54 and the second leg motor 56B. In such an example, each controller 84A, 84B can be configured to respond to a command issued from only one of the remote control devices 42, 44. For example, the first controller 84A is linked to the first remote control device 42 via the first wireless communication link 62, and the second controller 84B is linked to the second remote control device 44 via the second wireless communication link 64. Each remote control device 42, 44 can send a movement control signal to the corresponding controller 84A, 84B, which is similar to the transmission of the movement control signal described above with respect to the single controller 60.

[0127] In the illustration in Figure 5In the exemplary sleep system 70, each individual controller 74A, 74B (collectively referred to herein as "controller 74" or "controllers 74") may include a communication link, e.g., a cable, to the motors 52, 54, 56A, 56B that effect articulation and are controlled by a particular controller 74. For example, the first controller 74A may be linked to the first head motor 52 via a first cable 76A and to the second head motor 54 via a second cable 76B. Similarly, the second controller 74B may be linked to the first leg motor 56A via a first cable 78A and to the second leg motor 56B via a second cable 78B. The controllers 74A and 74B may communicate with each other via a communication link, e.g., a cable 79 that extends between the controllers 74A, 74B to transfer control signals therebetween.

[0128] In the example shown in Figure 6 In the exemplary sleep system 80, each individual controller 84A, 84B (collectively referred to herein as "controller 84" or "controllers 84") may include a communication link, e.g., a cable, to the motors 52, 54, 56A, 56B that effect articulation and are controlled by a particular controller 84. For example, the first controller 84A may be linked to the first head motor 52 via a first cable 86A and to the first leg motor 56A via a second cable 86B. Similarly, the second controller 84B may be linked to the second head motor 54 via a first cable 88A and to the second leg motor 56B via a second cable 88B. The controllers 84A and 84B may communicate with each other via a communication link, e.g., a cable 89 that extends between the controllers 84A, 84B to transfer control signals therebetween.

[0129] In an example where the support structure of the mattress 18 includes air chambers, the sleep systems 10, 70, 80 may further include an inflation system configured to control the pressure within the air chambers. The inflation system may include one or more pumps configured to inflate and deflate the air chambers and one or more controllers configured to control the one or more pumps. In an example, one or more controllers (e.g., a single controller 60 or multiple controllers 74A, 74B or multiple controllers 84A, 84B) that control the articulation of the mattress 18 may also be configured to control the operation of the one or more pumps. In another example, one or more independent controllers for controlling the operation of the one or more inflation pumps may be provided separate from the one or more controllers for controlling the articulation of the mattress 18.

[0130] In an example, the inflation system can provide individual control of the air pressure in each air chamber or individual control of the air pressure in one or more groups of air chambers. For example, if a first group of one or more air chambers is located in the first sleep area 20 and a second group of one or more air chambers is located in the second sleep area 22, the inflation system can be configured to individually control the pressure in the first group of air chambers to control the firmness of one or more parts or the whole of the first sleep area 20, and the inflation system can be configured to individually control the pressure in the second group of air chambers to control the firmness of one or more parts or the whole of the second sleep area 22. In an example, the user control devices 42, 44 can also be configured to control the inflation system, for example, by communicating with the controller of the inflation system to control the pump. Each user control device 42, 44 can be configured to control the inflation of the air chambers associated with a corresponding one of the sleep areas 20, 22, for example, such that the first occupant 14 can control the firmness of the first sleep area 20 and the second occupant 16 can control the firmness of the second sleep area 22.

[0131] Figures 7A-7C A flowchart showing an exemplary method 100 for controlling the articulated movement of the sleep systems 10, 70, or 80. At 102, the first occupant 14 uses the first remote control device 42 to select a specific position of the movable first section of the mattress 18 (e.g., the first head section 24). For example, the first occupant 14 can select a specific button or combination of buttons on the first remote control device 42 that corresponds to the "flat" position of the first head section 24 or a specific elevated position of the first head section 24, such as a position that reduces snoring, or a position for watching TV or reading.

[0132] At 104, the first remote control device 42 can send a movement control signal to one or more controllers, such as the controller 60( Figure 4 ), or two or more controllers 74( Figure 5 ), or two or more controllers 84( Figure 6)。The movement control signal can include a first address or other unique identifier that identifies that the first remote control device 42 sent the movement control signal, and the first address or other unique identifier is different from the address or unique identifier transmitted from other remote control devices such as the second remote control device 44. The movement control signal can also include a second address or unique identifier that indicates which articulable segments 24, 40 are to be moved in accordance with the movement control signal. For example, the second address or unique identifier indicates that the first head segment 24 is to be moved in accordance with the movement control signal. In an example, the movement control signal can include a header that includes a predetermined sequence of the first address (e.g., identifying the remote control device 42, 44 that sent the signal) and the second address (e.g., identifying the articulable segments 24, 40 to be moved in accordance with the instructions in the signal).

[0133] At 106, one or more controllers 60, 74, 84 receive the movement control signal and determine what action to take. Determining what action to take can include one or more controllers 60, 74, 84 determining which remote control device 42, 44 sent the movement control signal, for example, by analyzing the header and reading the address contained therein. The controllers 60, 74, 84 that receive the movement control signal can then determine whether the movement control signal is intended for itself or for another controller 60, 74, 84. In the case of a single controller 60, each movement control signal is intended for the controller 60 unless a remote control device from another sleep system is used. However, as in Figure 5 and Figure 6 when more than one controller 74, 84 is included, then, for example, depending on whether the head segment or the leg segment is to be articulated (as in the sleep system 70), the movement control signal can be intended for both controllers 74, or can be intended for only a particular controller 84 (e.g., where each remote control device and each controller 84 is configured for only one sleep area, as in the sleep system 80).

[0134] For example, in Figure 5In the sleep system 70, if the first controller 74A receives one or more first movement control signals having an address corresponding to the first remote control device 42 that indicate moving the first head section 24, the first controller 74A can determine that it should send one or more first motor control signals to the corresponding first head motors 52. However, if the first controller 74A receives a movement control signal having an address corresponding to the first remote control device 42 that indicates moving the engaged lower section 40, the first controller 74A can determine that it should ignore the movement control signal or alternatively transmit the movement control signal, for example, via the cable 79 to the second controller 74B.

[0135] In another example, in Figure 6 the sleep system 80, if the first controller 84A receives a movement control signal having an address corresponding to the first remote control device 42, the first controller 84A can determine that it should send motor control signals to one or more corresponding motors 52, 56A, 56B that cause articulated movement. However, if the first controller 84A receives a movement control signal having an address corresponding to the second remote control device 44, the first controller 84A can choose to ignore the movement control signal or alternatively can transmit the signal, for example, via the cable 89 to the second controller 84B.

[0136] At 108, one or more controllers 60, 74, 84 can formulate motor control signals to be sent to one or more of the motors 52, 44, 56A, 56B that cause articulated movement. The motor control signal or signals for each of the motors 52, 44, 56A, 56B that cause articulated movement can include what action the motors 52, 44, 56A, 56B that cause articulated movement should take, for example, in what direction, at what speed, and for how long the motors 52, 44, 56A, 56B that cause articulated movement should move. The motor control signal or signals can also include the timing and sequence of the actions to be taken by each of the motors 52, 44, 56A, 56B that cause articulated movement.

[0137] For example, if the controller 60 (or the first controller 74A or 84A in the case of two controllers) receives one or more first movement control signals from the first remote control device 42 indicating that the first head section 24 should move articulately, the controllers 60, 74A, 84A may determine that one or more first motor control signals may be sent directly to the first head motor 52. In the case where the system has two or more controllers, if the second controllers 74B, 84B receive one or more first movement control signals from the first remote control device 42 indicating that the first head section 24 should move articulately, the second controllers 74B, 84B may send control signals via the cables 79, 89 to the first controllers 74A, 84A, and the control signals may trigger the first controllers 74A, 84A to formulate one or more appropriate first motor control signals for the first head motor 52.

[0138] At 110, the controllers 60, 74, 84 may send one or more motor control signals to the appropriate articulation-causing motor or motors 52, 44, 56A, 56B, for example, via the cables 66, 76, 78, 86, or 88. In the example, the motor control signal may include an address or unique identifier corresponding to the articulation-causing motor 52, 44, 56A, 56B to which the control signal is directed. The address may be placed in the header of the control signal, similar to the addresses for the remote control devices 42, 44 in the movement control signals described above.

[0139] In the case where one or more first movement control signals are sent from the first controller 42 to move the first head section 24 articulately, the controller 60, 74A, or 84A may send one or more first motor control signals to the first head motor 52, and the first head motor 52 moves the first head section 24 to the selected position indicated in the first movement control signal.

[0140] In an example, before sending signals to motors 52, 44, 56A, 56B that cause articulation, controllers 60, 74, 84 may determine the current position of each articulable section 24, 30, 40. Controllers 60, 74, 84 may store the current position of each articulable section 24, 30, 40 in a memory within controllers 60, 74, 84, or controllers 60, 74, 84 may determine the current position by requesting the position or orientation read from a position sensor of each section 24, 30, 40. Controllers 60, 74, 84 may compare the current position and a selected position to determine whether a particular section 24, 30, 40 needs to be articulated and in what direction to articulate. For example, after obtaining or determining the current position of the first head section 24, controllers 60, 74A, 84A may then determine in what direction the first head section 24 will move to facilitate the selected position. Controllers 60, 74A, 84A may then send one or more first motor control signals to the first head motor 52, the one or more first motor control signals corresponding to the direction in which the first head section 24 is to be articulated.

[0141] At 112, the motor control signal or signals may be received by one or more of motors 52, 44, 56A, 56B that cause articulation associated with the articulable section or sections 24, 30, 40 to be articulated. For example, the first head motor 52 may receive one or more first motor control signals from controllers 60, 74A, 84A. At 114, the selected motor or motors 52, 44, 56A, 56B that cause articulation may then articulate the corresponding articulable section or sections 24, 30, 40 according to the one or more motor control signals such that the selected articulable section or sections 24, 30, 40 may be moved to a desired position. For example, the first head motor 52 may articulate the first head section 24 to the selected position according to the one or more first motor control signals.

[0142] At 116, the second occupant 16 may use the second remote control device 44 to select a position for the movable second section (e.g., the second head section 30) of the mattress 18. For example, the second occupant 16 may select a specific button or combination of buttons on the second remote control device 44 that corresponds to a "flat" position of the second head section 30 or a particular elevated position of the second head section 30, such as a position that reduces snoring, or a position for watching television or reading.

[0143] At 118, the second remote control device 44 may send one or more second movement control signals to one or more controllers, such as controller 60( Figure 4 ) or two or more controllers 74( Figure 5 ) or two or more controllers 84( Figure 6 ). The one or more second movement control signals may include a first address or other unique identifier that identifies that the second remote control device 44 is sending the movement control signal, and the first address or other unique identifier is different from the address or unique identifier transmitted from other remote control devices such as the first remote control device 42. The one or more second movement control signals may further include a second address or unique identifier that indicates which articulable segments 30, 40 are to be moved in accordance with the movement control signal. For example, the second address or unique identifier indicates that the second head segment 30 is to be moved in accordance with the movement control signal.

[0144] At 120, one or more of the controllers 60, 74A, 84B may receive the one or more second movement control signals and may determine what action to take, for example, by determining that a motor control signal should be sent to the second head motor 54.

[0145] At 122, one or more of the controllers 60, 74A, 84B may formulate one or more second motor control signals to be sent to the second head motor 54. The one or more second motor control signals may include what action the second head motor 54 should take. For example, in what direction, at what speed, and for how long the second head motor 54 should move. The one or more second motor control signals may further include the timing and sequence of the actions taken by the second head motor 54.

[0146] At 124, the controllers 60, 74A, 84B may send the one or more second motor control signals to the second head motor 54, for example, via cables 66B, 76B, 88A. In an example, the motor control signal may include an address or unique identifier corresponding to the second head motor 54. The address may be placed in the header of the one or more second motor control signals, similar to the address for the remote control device 44 in the movement control signal described above. As proposed above, the controllers 60, 74A, 84B may determine the current position of the second head segment 30 before sending the one or more second motor control signals.

[0147] At 126, the one or more second motor control signals or signals may be received by the second head motor 54. At 128, the second head motor 54B may then articulately move the second head section 30 to a desired position in accordance with the one or more second motor control signals.

[0148] At 130, the first occupant 14 or the second occupant 16 may respectively use the first remote control device 42 or the second remote control device 44 to select a position for the movable third section (e.g., the engaged lower section 40) of the mattress 18. For example, the occupants 14, 16 may select a specific button or combination of buttons on their respective remote control devices 42, 44 that corresponds to the "flat" position of the engaged lower section 40 or a specific elevated position of the engaged lower section 40.

[0149] At 132, the remote control devices 42, 44 may send one or more third movement control signals to one or more controllers 60, 74B, 84A / 84B. At 134, the one or more controllers 60, 74B, 84A / 84B may receive the one or more third movement control signals and may determine what action or actions should be taken, for example, by determining that motor control signals should be sent to the leg motors 56A, 56B.

[0150] At 136, the one or more controllers 60, 74B, 84A / 84B may formulate one or more third motor control signals to be sent to the first leg motor 56A. The one or more third motor control signals may include what action the first leg motor 56A should take, e.g., in what direction, at what speed, and for how long the first leg motor 56A should move. The one or more third motor control signals may also include the timing and sequence of the actions taken by the first leg motor 56A.

[0151] At 138, the one or more controllers 60, 74B, 84A / 84B may formulate one or more fourth motor control signals to be sent to the second leg motor 56B. The one or more fourth motor control signals may include what action the second leg motor 56B should take, e.g., in what direction, at what speed, and for how long the second leg motor 56B should move. The one or more fourth motor control signals may also include the timing and sequence of the actions taken by the second leg motor 56B.

[0152] At 140, the controllers 60, 74B, 84A / 84B can send one or more third motor control signals to the first leg motor 56A and can send one or more fourth motor control signals to the second leg motor 56B. In an example, one or more of the third motor control signals can include an address or unique identifier corresponding to the first leg motor 56A. At 142, the controllers 60, 74B, 84A / 84B can send one or more fourth motor control signals to the second leg motor 56B. In an example, one or more of the fourth motor control signals can include an address or unique identifier corresponding to the second leg motor 56B. As presented above, the controllers 60, 74B, 84A / 84B can determine the current position of the engaged lower section 40 before sending the motor control signals.

[0153] At 144, the one or more third motor control signals can be received by the first leg motor 56A. At 146, the one or more fourth motor control signals can be received by the second leg motor 56B. At 148, the leg motors 56A, 56B can be articulated in accordance with the one or more third motor control signals and the one or more fourth motor control signals to articulate the engaged lower section 40 into a desired position. The one or more third motor control signals and the one or more fourth motor control signals are configured such that the movement of the first leg motor 56A and the second leg motor 56B is substantially synchronous such that the movement of the engaged lower section 40 across the width of the mattress 18 is substantially consistent.

[0154] Figures 8-10 A second example of a sleep system 150 is shown. The sleep system 150 can include a bed 152 that is configured and intended to be used by two occupants (a first occupant 154 and a second occupant 156). The bed 152 can include a mattress 158 supported by a frame 159. The bed 152 can be conceptually divided into a first sleep area 160 for the first occupant 154 located on a first side of the bed 152 (e.g., Figure 8 and Figure 9 the left side in Figure 8 and Figure 9 ), and a second sleep area 162 for the second occupant 156 located on a second side of the bed 152 (e.g., Figures 1-4 the right side in

[0155] Like sleep system 10, at least a portion of each of sleep areas 160, 162 may be movable or articulatable between multiple positions to provide the ability to assume positions preferred by occupants 154, 156 for comfort or for special purpose selection. Each of sleep areas 160, 162 may include one or more articulatable sections. In an example, first sleep area 160 may include: a section 164 (referred to herein as first head section 164) that can be raised and lowered to adjust the position of the head or upper torso or both of first occupant 154, a section 166 (referred to herein as first leg section 166) that can be raised or lowered to adjust the position of the legs or lower torso or both of first occupant 154, and a section 168 (referred to herein as first intermediate section 168) longitudinally positioned between first head section 164 and first leg section 166. Similarly, second sleep area 162 may include: a section 170 (referred to herein as second head section 170) adjacent first head section 164 that can be raised and lowered to adjust the position of the head or upper torso or both of second occupant 156; a section 172 (referred to herein as second leg section 172) adjacent first leg section 166 that can be raised and lowered to adjust the position of the legs or lower torso or both of second occupant 156; and a section 174 (referred to herein as second intermediate section 174) adjacent first intermediate section 168 and longitudinally positioned between second head section 170 and second leg section 172. Intermediate sections 168, 164 may be configured to support the torso regions of occupants 154, 156 (e.g., the mid-trunk around the waist and a portion of the thighs), and depending on the desired operability of bed 152, intermediate sections 154, 156 may be configured to be movable (e.g., raised and lowered) or may be configured to be stationary and configured to remain in the same position and orientation throughout the operation of the bed.

[0156] As Figure 8 and Figure 9 shown, mattress 158 may be configured such that a first portion of first sleep area 160 is articulatable independent of a corresponding adjacent first portion of second sleep area 162, and vice versa, such that a first portion of second sleep area 162 is articulatable independent of a corresponding first portion of first sleep area 160. As shown in Figure 8 and Figure 9In the example of, the first head section 164 and the second head section 170 are adjacent to each other and can articulate upward or downward independently of each other. The independent articulation of the head sections 164, 170 can be provided by an intermediate slit 176 that extends longitudinally from the upper end 178 of the mattress 158. As described in more detail below, each of the head sections 164, 170 can be articulated by one or more actuators (e.g., one or more motors capable of causing articulation), such that each head section 164, 170 is an independent movable section of the mattress 158.

[0157] As shown in Figure 8 and Figure 9 further shown, the mattress 158 can be configured such that a second part of the first sleep area 160 is articulable independently of a corresponding adjacent second part of the second sleep area 162, and vice versa, such that a second part of the second sleep area 162 is articulable independently of a corresponding second part of the first sleep area 160. In the example shown in Figure 8 and Figure 9 the first leg section 166 and the second leg section 172 are adjacent to each other and can articulate upward or downward independently of each other. The independent articulation of the leg sections 166, 172 can be provided by an intermediate slit 180 that extends longitudinally from the lower end 182 of the mattress 158. As described in more detail below, each of the leg sections 166, 172 can be articulated by one or more actuators (e.g., one or more motors capable of causing articulation), such that each leg section 166, 172 is an independent movable section of the mattress 158.

[0158] The mattress 158 can also be configured such that a third part of the first sleep area 160 and a corresponding third part of the second sleep area 162 are joined together and configured to be stationary or to move together in a substantially synchronous manner. For example, as shown by the mattress 158 of Figure 8 and Figure 9 the intermediate sections 168, 174 are joined together as a substantially integral intermediate section, such that the intermediate sections 168, 174 together resemble a single joined intermediate section 184 of the mattress 158. As described in more detail below, the sleep system 150 can be configured such that the intermediate sections 168, 174 can be stationary together, or can be configured to articulate together, e.g., by one or more articulating actuators, such that the intermediate sections 168, 174 can act together as a single stationary or movable joined intermediate section 184.

[0159] In this way, the sleep system 150 can include a mattress 158 that includes a first sleep area 160 for a first occupant 154. The first sleep area 160 includes a first movable upper section (e.g., a first head section 164) and a first movable lower section (e.g., a first leg section 166). The mattress 158 can also include a second sleep area 162 for a second occupant 156. The second sleep area 162 includes a second movable upper section (e.g., a second head section 170) adjacent to the first movable upper section and a second movable lower section (e.g., a second leg section 172) adjacent to the first lower section. The mattress 158 can also include a common intermediate section that extends between the first sleep area and the second sleep area, such as a joined intermediate section 184. The common intermediate section 184 is positioned between the movable upper sections 164, 170 and the movable lower sections 166, 172 of each of the first sleep area 160 and the second sleep area 162. The mattress 158 can be an air mattress (described in more detail below) that includes a group of independent air bladders or air chambers. Thus, the mattress 158 can include a group of one or more first air chambers carried by the first movable upper section 164, the first movable lower section 166, and a first portion of the common intermediate section 184 (e.g., a first intermediate section 168 that forms part of the joined intermediate section 184 in the first sleep area 160). Similarly, the mattress 158 can also include a group of one or more second air chambers carried by the second movable upper section 170, the second movable lower section 172, and a second portion of the common intermediate section 184 (e.g., a second intermediate section 174 that forms part of the joined intermediate section 184 in the second sleep area 162).

[0160] As best shown in Figure 11 the mattress 158 can include a movable first section (e.g., a first head section 164) that extends transversely along a first portion W B of the entire width W B1 of the mattress 158 and extends longitudinally along a first portion L B of the entire length L B1 of the mattress 158. Similarly, the mattress 158 can include a movable second section (e.g., a second head section 170) that extends transversely along a second portion W B of the width W B2 of the mattress 158 and extends longitudinally along a first portion L B of the length L B1extends longitudinally. The mattress 158 may also include a movable third section (e.g., a first leg section 166) that extends along the entire width W B of a first portion W that is the same as the movable first section (e.g., a first head section 164) B1 extends transversely and along the length L B of a second portion L B2 extends longitudinally. The mattress 158 may also include a movable fourth section (e.g., a second leg section 172) that extends along the width W B of a second portion W that is the same as the movable second section (e.g., a second head section 170) B2 extends transversely and along the length L B of a second portion L that is the same as the movable third section (e.g., a first leg section 166B) of the mattress 158 B2 extends longitudinally. The mattress 158 may also include a fifth section (e.g., a joined middle section 184) that may or may not be movable or articulable and that extends along the substantially entire width W B extends transversely and along the length L B of a third portion L B3 extends longitudinally, where the third portion L B of the length L B3 may extend intermediate the first portion L B of the length L B1 and the second portion L B of the length L B2 extends therebetween.

[0161] The mattress 158 may include one or more support structures for supporting the occupants 154, 156 within the movable first section (e.g., the first head section 164), the movable second section (e.g., the second head section 170), the movable third section (e.g., the first leg section 166), the movable fourth section (e.g., the second leg section 172), and the fifth section (e.g., the joined middle section 184). In an example, the mattress 158 may include a set of one or more support structures (e.g., one or more first air chambers) for the first sleep area 160, e.g., the set of one or more support structures being carried within the housings forming the first movable section (e.g., the first head section 164), the third movable section (e.g., the second leg section 172), and the fifth section (e.g., the joined middle section 184). The mattress 158 may also include one or more second support structures (e.g., one or more second air chambers) for the second sleep area 162, e.g., the one or more second support structures being carried within the second movable section (e.g., the second head section 170), the fourth movable section (e.g., the second leg section 172), and the fifth section (e.g., the joined middle section 184).

[0162] The sleep system 150 may also include a pair of user control devices 186, 188 to allow each of the occupants 154, 156 to control the articulated movement of his or her respective sleep area 160, 162. As shown in Figures 8-11 , the sleep system 150 may include a first user control device 186 (e.g., a first handheld remote control device 186) that has been programmed to control the operation of the first sleep area 160, and a second user control device 188 (e.g., a second handheld remote control device 188) that has been programmed to control the operation of the second sleep area 162. The first occupant 154 may use the first remote control device 186 to control the operation of the first sleep area 160 on which the first occupant 154 lies, and the second occupant 156 may use the second remote control device 188 to control the operation of the second sleep area 162 on which the second occupant 156 lies. To ensure an appropriate link between each remote control device 186, 188 and the corresponding sleep area 160, 162, each remote control device 186, 188 may include an address or other unique identifier, e.g., to distinguish the first remote control device 186 from the second remote control device 188.

[0163] In an example, the first occupant 154 may select, via the first remote control device 186, to control the first head section 164 to articulate up or down a specific amount and / or to control the first leg section 166 to articulate up or down a specific amount. If the sleep system 150 is configured such that the joined intermediate section 184 is articulable, the first remote control device 186 may also be configured to control the articulation of the joined intermediate section 184 (e.g., to control the articulation of the joined intermediate sections 168, 174). The second occupant 156 may select, via the second remote control device 188, to control the second head section 170 to articulate up or down a specific amount and / or to control the second leg section 172 to articulate up or down a specific amount. If the sleep system 150 is configured such that the joined intermediate section 184 is articulable, the first remote control device 186 may also be configured to control the articulation of the joined intermediate section 184. In an example, the articulation of the joined intermediate section 184 may be controlled by only the first remote control device 186, only the second remote control device 188, or by both the first remote control device 186 and the second remote control device 188.

[0164] In an example, the articulation of any of the sections 164, 166, 170, 127, and (if articulable) 184 may be controlled to occur continuously between a minimum height or orientation and a maximum height or orientation or along a discrete set of positions. For example, the head sections 164, 170 and the leg sections 166, 172 may articulate from a minimum height position (such as flat) to a maximum height position (e.g., where the head sections 164, 170 are at a maximum programmed angle relative to the horizontal plane (e.g., about 60°), or where the leg sections 166, 172 form a maximum programmed angle relative to the horizontal plane (e.g., about 45°)).

[0165] Like the sleep system 10 described above, the sleep system 150 may also be configured such that each sleep area 160, 162 may be positioned in one or more predetermined or preset positions. For each preset position, the head sections 164, 170, the leg sections 166, 172, and in some examples the joined intermediate section 184, may be moved to a predetermined position or orientation. Examples of each preset position that may be programmed into the sleep system 10 include, but are not limited to: the flat preset (described above), the "reading" preset (described above), the "TV" preset (described above), and the "snoring" preset (described above).

[0166] In an example where the support structure of the mattress 158 includes air chambers, the sleep system 150 may further include an inflation system configured to control the pressure within the air chambers. The inflation system may include one or more pumps configured to inflate and deflate the air chambers and one or more controllers configured to control the one or more pumps. In an example, one or more controllers (e.g., controller 200 or multiple controllers 214A, 214B) that control the articulated movement of the mattress 158 may also be configured to control the operation of the one or more pumps. In another example, one or more separate controllers for controlling the operation of one or more inflation pumps may be provided separate from the one or more controllers for controlling the articulated movement of the mattress 158.

[0167] In an example, the inflation system may provide separate control of the air pressure within each air chamber or within a group or groups of air chambers. For example, if a first group of one or more air chambers is located in a first sleep region 160 and a second group of one or more air chambers is located in a second sleep region 162, the inflation system may be configured to separately control the pressure in the first group of air chambers to control the firmness of one or more portions or the entirety of the first sleep region 160, and the inflation system may be configured to separately control the pressure in the second group of air chambers to control the firmness of one or more portions or the entirety of the second sleep region 162. In an example, the user control devices 186, 188 may also be configured to control the inflation system, e.g., by communicating with the controller of the inflation system to control the pumps. Each user control device 186, 188 may be configured to control the inflation of the air chambers associated with the corresponding one of the sleep regions 160, 162, such that a first occupant 154 may control the firmness of the first sleep region 160 and a second occupant 156 may control the firmness of the second sleep region 162.

[0168] Figure 11 A top view of the sleep system 150 is shown. As shown in Figure 11In the sleep system 150, a joint motion system 190 may be included for controlling the joint motion of the articulatable sections 164, 166, 170, 172, and 184 (if articulatable). The joint motion system 190 may include a set of joint motion actuators, where each articulatable section is caused to move in a joint motion by one or more of the actuators. Examples of actuators that may be used to move the articulatable sections 164, 166, 170, 172 in a joint motion may include one or more motors. For example, the joint motion system 190 may include one or more head motors configured to move the head sections 164, 170. For example, a first head motor 192 may be configured to move the first head section 164 of the first sleep area 160 in a joint motion, and a second head motor 194 may be configured to move the second head section 170 of the second sleep area 162 in a joint motion. The joint motion system 190 may also include one or more leg motors configured to move the leg sections 166, 172 in a joint motion. For example, as shown in Figure 11 , a first leg motor 196 may be configured to move the first leg section 166 of the first sleep area 160 in a joint motion, and a second leg motor 198 may be configured to move the second leg section 172 of the second sleep area 162 in a joint motion. One or more intermediate motors (not shown) may also be included, and the one or more intermediate motors may be configured to move the joined intermediate section 184 in a joint motion.

[0169] The joint motion system 190 may also include one or more controllers, for example, a control box including electronic devices and hardware for providing instructions to the motors 192, 194, 196, 198 that cause the joint motion. Figure 11is a top view of an exemplary sleep system 150, showing an articulated motion system 190 including a single common controller 200 configured to control each of the sleep areas 160, 162, e.g., causing each of the motors 192, 194, 196, 198 for articulated motion. Each remote control device 186, 188 can communicate with the controller 200, e.g., via wireless communication links 202, 204. The remote control devices 186, 188 can send movement control signals to the controller 200 via the wireless communication links 202, 204. As used herein, a "movement control signal" can refer to one or more signals sent from the remote control devices 186, 188 to the controller 200 corresponding to a particular movement or position of one or more of the articulable sections 164, 166, 168, 170. The movement control signal can include one or more instructions for: the direction of movement of a particular articulable section 164, 166, 168, 170 (e.g., the direction of movement of the corresponding motor 192, 194, 196, 198 for articulated motion), the speed of movement of a particular articulable section 164, 166, 168, 170 or a particular motor 192, 194, 196, 198 for articulated motion, or the overall position (e.g., a preset position) of the corresponding sleep areas 160, 162 controlled by the remote control devices 186, 188.

[0170] The controller 200 may send one or more motor control signals corresponding to the desired actions of each of the motors 192, 194, 196, 198 that cause articulating motion to one or more of the motors 192, 194, 196, 198 that cause articulating motion. As used herein, a "motor control signal" may refer to one signal or a plurality of signals sent from a controller such as the controller 200 to one or more of the motors 192, 194, 196, 198 that cause articulating motion and corresponding to a particular movement or position of one or more articulable sections 164, 166, 168, 170. One motor control signal or a plurality of motor control signals may include instructions for one or both of the direction in which each of the motors 192, 194, 196, 198 that cause articulating motion should articulate and the speed at which the motors 192, 194, 196, 198 that cause articulating motion should travel. In an example, a plurality of communication cables 204A, 204B, 204C, and 204D (collectively referred to herein as "cables 204" or "the plurality of cables 204") may carry motor control signals from the controller 200 to the motors 192, 194, 196, 198 that cause articulating motion, where each cable 204 corresponds to a particular motor (e.g., the first cable 204A for the first head motor 192, the second cable 204B for the second head motor 194, the third cable 204C for the first leg motor 196, and the fourth cable 204D for the second leg motor 198).

[0171] In another example, the sleep system 210 may include an articulating motion system 212 having more than a single common controller. In the example shown in Figure 12 each sleep area 160, 162 may have its own controller, e.g., a first controller 214A corresponding to the first sleep area 160 by being configured to control the first head motor 192 and the first leg motor 196, and a second controller 214B corresponding to the second sleep area 162 by being configured to control the second head motor 194 and the second leg motor 198. In such an example, the first remote control device 186 may be linked to the first controller 214A via a first wireless communication link 216A, and the first controller 214A may be configured to respond to commands issued from the first remote control device 186 rather than commands issued from the second remote control device 188. The second remote control device 188 may be linked to the second controller 214B via a second wireless communication link 216B, and the second controller 214B may be configured to respond to commands issued from the second remote control device 188 rather than commands issued from the first remote control device 186.

[0172] For example, if a first occupant 154 desires to articulate his or her head and upper torso upward or downward, he or she can make a selection on the first remote control device 186, which can cause a movement control signal from the first remote control device 186 to be transmitted via the first wireless communication link 216A to the first controller 214A, which in turn can send a motor control signal to the first head motor 192. Similarly, if the first occupant 154 desires to articulate his or her feet, he or she can make a selection on the first remote control device 186, which can cause a movement control signal to be transmitted via the first wireless communication link 216A to the first controller 214A, which in turn can send a motor control signal to the leg motors 196. For example, if a second occupant 156 desires to articulate his or her head and upper torso upward or downward, he or she can make a selection on the second remote control device 188, which can cause a movement control signal from the second remote control device 188 to be transmitted via the second wireless communication link 216B to the second controller 214B, which in turn can send a motor control signal to the second head motor 194. Similarly, if the second occupant 156 desires to articulate his or her feet, he or she can make a selection on the second remote control device 188, which can cause a movement control signal to be transmitted via the wireless communication link 216B to the second controller 214B, which in turn can send a motor control signal to the second leg motors 198.

[0173] Each individual controller 214A, 214B (collectively referred to herein as "controller 214" or "controllers 214") can include communication links to the motors 192, 194, 196, 198 that cause articulation controlled by a particular controller 214, such as cables. For example, the first controller 214A can be linked to the first head motor 192 via a first cable 218A and to the first leg motors 196 via a second cable 218B. Similarly, the second controller 214B can be linked to the second head motor 194 via a first cable 220A and to the second leg motors 198 via a second cable 220B. The controllers 214A and 214B can communicate with each other via a communication link, such as a cable 222 that extends between the controllers 214A, 214B to transfer control signals between the controllers 214A, 214B.

[0174] Each set of one or more support structures can include any type of support structure that can be used to support an occupant 14, 16, 154, 156 using the sleep systems 10, 70, 80, 150, 210 according to this description. Examples of support structures that can be used within a mattress 18, 158 can include innerspring support structures, foam (e.g., “memory” foam) support structures, and fluid-based support structures such as air chambers or air bladders. Examples of air bladder or air chamber systems are described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 728,094, filed Nov. 19, 2012, entitled “Multi-Zone Air Chamber and Mattress System,” and U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 828,985, filed Mar. 14, 2013, entitled “Multi-Zone Fluid Chamber and Mattress System,” the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0175] Figure 13 A schematic diagram showing a controller 250 that can represent, for example, a single controller 60 of the exemplary sleep system 10 shown in Figure 4 FIG. Figure 5 one of the plurality of controllers 74A and 74B of the exemplary sleep system 70 shown in Figure 6 FIG. Figure 11 one of the plurality of controllers 84A and 84B of the exemplary sleep system 80 shown in Figure 12 FIG.

[0176] The controller 250 may include one or more communication modules to allow the controller 250 to communicate with remote control devices 42, 44, 186, or 188, motors 52, 54, 56A, 56B, 192, 194, 196, 198 that cause articulated movement, and (if the controller 250 is part of a multi-controller sleep system) another controller. The communication module may include a telemetry module 252 and a communication bus 254. By establishing wireless communication links 62, 64, 202, 204 between the telemetry module 252 and similar corresponding telemetry modules within each of the remote control devices 42, 44, 186, 188, the telemetry module 252 may allow wireless transmission of data such as control signals to one or both of the remote control devices 42, 44, 186, 188 or wireless transmission of data from one or both of the remote control devices 42, 44, 186, 188. The telemetry module 252 may include a radio frequency (RF) transceiver to allow two-way communication between the controller 250 and the remote control devices 42, 44, 186, 188. To support wireless communication such as RF communication, the telemetry module 252 may include one or more suitable electronic components such as amplifiers, filters, mixers, encoders, decoders, or the like.

[0177] The communication bus 254 may provide a physical communication link to the controller 250 via, for example, one or more cables 256A, 256B, 256C, 256D (collectively referred to as "cables 256" or "the plurality of cables 256"), the one or more cables 256A, 256B, 256C, 256D corresponding to cables 66 from the controller 60 in Figure 4 and cables 76A, 76B, 78A, 78B, and 79 from the controllers 74A, 74B in Figure 5 and cables 86A, 86B, 88A, 88B from the controllers 84A, 84B in Figure 6 or cables 218A, 218B, 220A, 220B from the controllers 214A, 214B in Figure 12 The communication bus 254 may include one or more physical ports 258A, 258B, 258C, 258D (collectively referred to as "ports 258" or "the plurality of ports 258"), each port configured to provide a connection to a corresponding cable 256.

[0178] Each port 98 may be addressed to correspond to a specific communication link to be established. For example, in Figure 4In the case of a single controller 60, the first port 258A can be addressed to correspond to the link to the first head motor 52, the second port 258B can be addressed to correspond to the link to the second head motor 54, the third port 258C can be addressed to correspond to the link to the first leg motor 56A, and the fourth port 258D can be addressed to correspond to the link to the second leg motor 56B. In an example of separate controllers (such as controllers 74A, 74B separately configured for independent control of the upper and lower portions of the mattress 18), the first port 258A of the first of the controllers (such as the first controller 74A) can be addressed to correspond to the link to another controller 74B, the second port 258B can be addressed to correspond to the link to the first head motor 52, and the third port 258C can be addressed to correspond to the second head motor 54. For the second controller (such as the second controller 74B), the first port 258A can be addressed to correspond to the link to another controller 74A, the second port 258B can be addressed to correspond to the link to the first leg motor 56A, and the third port 258C can be addressed to correspond to the link to the second leg motor 56B.

[0179] In an example of separate controllers 84A, 84B for each of the sleep areas 20, 22, the first port 258A of each controller can be addressed to correspond to the link to another controller, the second port 258B can be addressed to correspond to the link to the corresponding head motor (e.g., the first head motor 52 or the second head motor 54), and the third port 258C can be addressed to correspond to the link to the corresponding leg motor (e.g., the first leg motor 56A or the second leg motor 56B).

[0180] The controller 250 may also include a processor 260, a memory 262, and a power supply 264. The processor 260 can control all operations of the controller 250, such as by storing and retrieving information from the memory 262, by controlling the transmission of signals to the remote control devices 42, 44, 186, 188 via the telemetry module 252 and receiving signals from the remote control devices 42, 44, 186, 188, and by controlling the transmission of signals to the motors 52, 54, 56A, 56B, 192, 194, 196, 198 that cause articulated movement or another controller via the communication bus 254 and receiving signals from the motors 52, 54, 56A, 56B, 192, 194, 196, 198 that cause articulated movement or another controller. The processor 260 may take the form of one or more microprocessors, one or more controllers, one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other digital logic circuits.

[0181] The memory 262 can store instructions to be executed by the processor 260, for example, predetermined control instructions for causing the motors 52, 54, 56A, 56B, 192, 194, 196, 198 to effect articulated movement. The memory 262 can also store information corresponding to the operation of the sleep systems 10, 70, 80, 150, 210, for example, storing the addresses identifying each remote control device 42, 44, 186, 188 or each motor 52, 54, 56A, 56B, 192, 194, 196, 198 that effects articulated movement. The memory 262 can also store other information about the components of the sleep systems 10, 70, 80, 150, 210, for example, the current configuration of each articulable section 24, 30, 40, 164, 166, 170, 172, 184, or the current position of each motor 52, 54, 56A, 56B, 192, 194, 196, 198 that effects articulated movement, or both. The memory 262 can also store the current position of each articulable section 24, 30, 40, 164, 166, 170, 172, 184, or each motor 52, 54, 56A, 56B, 192, 194, 196, 198 that effects articulated movement, or both, where each current position corresponds to a specific current position of the sleep areas 20, 22, 160, 162 (as described in more detail above). The memory 262 can include any electronic data storage medium, such as any one or more of random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory, or the like.

[0182] Optionally, or in combination with the memory 262, the sleep systems 10, 70, 80, 150, 210 can include one or more position sensors configured to determine the position or orientation of each of the articulable sections 24, 30, 40, 164, 166, 170, 172, 184, or of each of the motors 52, 54, 56A, 56B, 192, 194, 196, 198 that cause articulation, or both. The one or more position sensors can transmit the position or orientation of each of the articulable sections 24, 30, 40, 164, 166, 170, 172, 184 or of each of the motors 52, 54, 56A, 56B, 192, 194, 196, 198 that cause articulation, or both, to the controller 250. Examples of position sensors that can be used with the sleep systems of the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, accelerometers and gyroscopic position or orientation sensors. Optionally, sensors (such as motor encoders) can be included on the motors 52, 54, 56A, 56B, 192, 194, 196, 198 to determine the position of the motor or of an actuator moved by the motor. Other types of position or orientation sensors can be used.

[0183] The power supply 264 can include a power circuit connectable to an external power supply (such as a standard alternating current (AC) power supply). The power supply 264 can also include a battery (such as a non-rechargeable primary battery or a rechargeable battery) that can be coupled to the power circuit.

[0184] As described above, each of the sleep areas 20, 22, 160, 162 can be controlled by a corresponding remote control device 42, 44, 186, 188 (such as a first remote control device 42, 186 for controlling the first sleep area 20, 160 and a second remote control device 44, 188 for controlling the second sleep area 22, 162). As further described above, the sleep systems 10, 70, 80, 150, 210 can be configured such that the first remote control device 42, 186 is linked to the first sleep area 20, 160, such that when a first occupant 14, 154 selects a movement command on the first remote control device 42, 186, the articulation system 50, 72, 190 correctly articulates the first sleep area 20, 160 occupied by the first occupant 14, 154 without articulating the second sleep area 22, 162 occupied by the second occupant 16, 156. Similarly, the sleep systems 10, 70, 80, 150, 210 can be configured such that the second remote control device 44, 188 is linked to the second sleep area 22, 162.

[0185] To ensure proper linkage between each of the remote control devices 42, 44, 186, 188 and the corresponding sleep areas 20, 22, 160, 162, each of the remote control devices 42, 44, 186, 188 may have an address or other unique identifier. This address may allow the controller 250 (e.g., controller 60, controller 74A, 74B, controller 84A, 84B, controller 200 or controller 214A, 214B) to identify which remote control device 42, 44, 186, 188 is sending a movement control signal. For example, when the first remote control devices 42, 186 send a movement control signal to the controller 250, the movement control signal may include a header that includes the address for the first remote control devices 42, 186. When the movement control signal is received, the controller 250 may read the header containing the address and determine that the movement control signal is from the first remote controller 42, 186. The controller 250 may then determine that the movement control signal should correspond to the first sleep areas 20, 160, and the controller 250 may relay a corresponding motor control signal or a plurality of corresponding motor control signals to the appropriate motors 52, 56A, 56B, 192, 196 to articulate the first sleep areas 20, 160. Similarly, when the second remote control devices 44, 188 send a movement control signal to the controller 250, the movement control signal may include a header having the address for the second remote control devices 44, 188. The controller 250 may then send corresponding control signals to the appropriate motors 54, 56A, 56B, 194, 198 to articulate the second sleep areas 22, 162.

[0186] Each of the remote control devices 42, 44, 186, 188 can be configured to allow the occupants 14, 16, 154, 156 to operate the remote control devices 42, 44, 186, 188 to select a specific desired movement of the sleep systems 10, 70, 80, 150, 210. The selection of the desired movement by the occupants 14, 16, 154, 156 can in turn trigger a corresponding movement control signal to be sent from the remote control devices 42, 44, 186, 188 to the controller 250. Examples of movements that the occupants 14, 16, 154, 156 can select on each of the remote control devices 42, 44, 186, 188 can include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following commands: raising the first section (e.g., a command to raise the head sections 24, 30); lowering the first section (e.g., a command to lower the head sections 24, 30, 164, 170); raising the second section (e.g., a command to raise the joined lower section 40 or raise the leg sections 166, 172); lowering the second section (e.g., a command to lower the joined lower section 40 or lower the leg sections 166, 172); or moving one or both of the first and second sections to a preset position (e.g., a flat position, a reading position, a "watching TV" position, etc.).

[0187] Each command can be activated by activating a specific button, a series of buttons, or a series of menu options on the remote control devices 42, 44, 186, 188. Each button or menu option can be a physical button, or can be a virtual button such as a button on a touch screen, or a series of button presses or menu prompts entered via physical or virtual buttons.

[0188] As proposed above, each of the remote control devices 42, 44, 186, 188 can be configured to control the articulated movement of the articulable movement sections 24, 30, 40, 164, 166, 170, 172, 184 of the corresponding sleep areas 20, 22, 160, 162. In other words, each occupant 14, 16, 154, 156 can control the articulated movement of his or her own sleep area 20, 22, 160, 162. In Figures 1-6 the case of the exemplary sleep systems 10, 70, and 80 (e.g., having joined sections spanning two sleep areas 20, 22, such as the joined lower section 40), each occupant 14, 16, 154, 156 can also control the joined section spanning two sleep areas 20, 22, e.g., control the joined lower section 40. Alternatively, only one of the remote control devices 42, 44 can be configured to control the joined section (e.g., the joined lower section 40), while the other remote control device 42, 44 can be configured to control only the corresponding head sections 24, 30.

[0189] The split-zone sleep systems 10, 70, 80, 150, 210 described above may pose additional challenges in providing an optimized sleep environment to the occupant 14, 16, 154, 156. For example, adjacent movable zones of the sleep systems 10, 70, 80, 150, 210 (e.g., adjacent articulable head zones 24, 30, 164, 170 in the sleep systems 10, 70, 80, 150, 210, or adjacent articulable leg zones 168, 172 in the sleep systems 150, 210) may cause difficulties with a sheet configured to fit over the mattresses 18, 158 of the sleep systems 10, 70, 80, 150, 210. For example, if the adjacent zones are in close proximity to each other, adjacent portions of the sheet may contact, which may cause premature wear of the contacting portions. Friction between adjacent portions of the sheet may also cause the sheet to move relative to the mattresses 18, 158 and become wrinkled or even separate from the mattresses 18, 158.

[0190] The sheet may also experience additional stress at the junction where two adjacent articulable zones are joined together, e.g., at the junction point 37 at the end of the intermediate split 36 between the first head zone 24 and the second head zone 30 ( Figure 1 ), at the junction point 177 at the end of the intermediate split 176 between the first head zone 164 and the second head zone 170 ( Figure 8 ), or at the junction point 181 at the end of the intermediate split 180 between the first leg zone 166 and the second leg zone 172 ( Figure 8 ). Movement of the adjacent articulable zones 24 and 30, 164 and 170, and 166 and 172 may cause the sheet material to be taut, which may be further exacerbated by the occupant 14, 16, 154, 156 sitting or lying on the bed.

[0191] Figures 14-15 An example of a sheet 300 that can be used with a top-split mattress (e.g., the head-split mattress 18 shown in Figure 1 ), or the head-split and foot-split mattress 158 shown in 8) is shown. The sheet 300 is shown as being designed for a head-split and foot-split mattress 302, similar to the mattress 158 described above with respect to Figures 8-12 the sleep systems 150, 210. However, a similar sheet design can be used for a head-split-only mattress similar to the mattress 18 described above with respect to Figures 1 to 7A the sleep systems 10, 70, 80 described in -7C.

[0192] Figure 14A exploded view showing the sheet 300 and the mattress 302 is presented. For example, the sheet 300 and the mattress 302 are separated before the sheet 300 has been placed on the mattress 302 to better show the separated aspects of the sheet 300 and the mattress 302. The sheet 300 can be configured to generally cover the top surface and the side surfaces of the mattress 302. The mattress 302 can have a first articulable upper section 304 (referred to herein as the first head section 304), a separate second articulable upper section 306 (referred to herein as the second head section 306), a first articulable lower section 308 (referred to herein as the first leg section 308), a separate second articulable lower section 310 (referred to herein as the second leg section 310), and an integrated middle section 312. As shown in Figure 14 , the first head section 304 and the second head section 306 can be pivotally coupled to the integrated middle section 312 such that, for example, the first head section 304 can pivot up and down relative to the middle section 312, and adjacent thereto, the second head section 306 can also pivot up and down relative to the middle section 312. Similarly, the first leg section 308 and the second leg section 310 can be pivotally coupled to the integrated middle section 312 such that, for example, the first leg section 308 can pivot up and down relative to the middle section 312, and adjacent thereto, the second leg section 310 can also pivot up and down relative to the middle section 312. In this way, the exemplary mattress 302 shown in Figure 14 is substantially the same as the head-split and leg-split mattress 158 of the sleep system 150 of Figure 8 . However, the mattress 302 can have other configurations, such as Figure 1 the head-split and leg-integrated mattress 18 of the sleep system 10 of

[0193] The mattress 302 can include a top surface 314 configured to support an occupant of the mattress 302, a bottom surface 316, and one or more side surfaces 318 extending between the top surface 314 and the bottom surface 316. The top surface 314, the bottom surface 316, and the side surfaces 318 can be shaped and configured such that the mattress 302 forms the articulable sections of an adjustable bed, such as the first head section 304, the second head section 306, the first leg section 308, the second leg section 310, and the integrated middle section 312.

[0194] The sheet 300 can have a shape corresponding to that of the mattress 302, where the sheet 300 is configured to cover the mattress 302. For example, configured to cover the one shown in Figure 14The sheet 300 of the exemplary mattress 302 therein has a first upper section 320 corresponding to the first head section 304 of the mattress 302, a separate second upper section 322 corresponding to the second head section 306 of the mattress 302, a first lower section 324 corresponding to the first leg section 308 of the mattress 302, a separate second lower section 326 corresponding to the second leg section 310 of the mattress 302, and a joined middle section 328 corresponding to the joined middle section 312 of the mattress 302. The sheet 300 can be configured such that the dimensions of each section 320, 322, 324, 326, 328 can be set to closely fit over each corresponding section 304, 306, 208, 310, 312 of the mattress 302.

[0195] The sheet 300 can be formed by a top member 330 (such as a top fabric sheet 330) and one or more side members 332 (such as one or more side fabric sheets 332), wherein the top member 330 is configured to cover the top surface 314 of the mattress 302, and the one or more side members 332 are coupled to the top member 330 and configured to cover one or more side surfaces 318 of the mattress 302. The one or more side fabric sheets 332 can also include a bottom portion 334 that is configured to wrap around at least a portion of the bottom surface 316 of the mattress 302, for example, the bottom portion 334 is elastic to form a tight fit of the bottom portion 334 on the bottom surface 316 of the mattress 302.

[0196] The sheet 300 can also include one or more features that can provide better durability of the sheet 300 on the adjustable top-split mattress 302, and / or can provide a better fit of the sheet 300 onto the mattress 302, and / or can provide better performance of the sheet 300 during the articulated movement of the mattress 302.

[0197] For example, the movement of the mattress 302 during articulated movement may cause an increase in stress on the sheet 300. For example, when the first movable section of the mattress 302 is articulated while an adjacent second movable section of the mattress 302, for example, moves to a different position or remains stationary without moving with the first movable section. For example, as Figure 14As shown, if the first head section 304 remains lowered while the second head section 306 is raised, the second upper section 322 of the sheet 300 may become stretched relative to the first upper section 320, and in particular, additional stress may be applied to the junction point 336 between the first upper section 320, the second upper section 322, and the joined intermediate section 328 of the sheet 300. The junction point 336 can be a point where several fabric pieces and several seams on the sheet 300 come together, which may result in the sheet 300 being structurally weaker at the junction point 336 than at other locations on the sheet 300. The junction point 336 can also be a point where the stress from the movement of the articulable motion sections 304, 306, 208, 310 of the mattress 302 can be greater. The combination of the structural weakness of the sheet 300 at the junction point 336 and the increased stress applied to the sheet 300 at the junction point 336 may mean that the sheet may be particularly prone to damage (e.g., tearing, wear, etc.) at the junction point 336.

[0198] Figure 15 A view showing a close-up of the junction point 336 for an exemplary sheet 300 is shown. The sheet 300 can be configured to reduce the stress experienced by the sheet 300 at the junction point due to the movement of the articulable motion sections 304, 306, 308, 310 of the mattress 302. In an example, the sheet 300 can include one or more structures configured to distribute the stress across the sheet 300 such that the stress is not concentrated at any point, and in particular, not concentrated at the junction point 336. The sheet 300 can include an object referred to herein as a "cross-joint". The cross-joint can include a first member that projects laterally from a first of the adjacent articulable motion sections of the sheet 300 towards the other articulable motion sections of the sheet 300, and a second member that projects laterally from a second of the adjacent articulable motion sections of the sheet 300 towards the other articulable motion sections of the sheet 300. The first member can overlap or span over the second member along a predetermined length extending from the junction point of the sheet 300 of the adjacent articulable motion sections.

[0199] For example, at the junction point 336 between the first upper section 320, the second upper section 322, and the joined intermediate section 328, a first cross-joint 338 can be formed to include a first member 340 that projects laterally from the first upper section 320 and overlaps a second member 342 that projects laterally from the second upper section 322 (best seen in Figure 15 . As seen in Figure 15 , the members 340, 342 can each include a relatively thin fabric strip, e.g., the fabric strip having a width W from about 0.5 cm (about 0.2 inches) to about 7.5 cm (about 3 inches) S。The first member 340 and the second member 342 may each extend along the longitudinal length of the sections 320, 322, and the first member 340 and the second member 342 project upwardly (e.g., from left to right in Figure 15 to the longitudinal length of the sections 320, 322, and in some examples, project to the junction 336 included between the sections 320, 322, 328).

[0200] When the articulable movement sections 304, 306 of the mattress 302 move, the members 340, 342 may provide a distribution of the stress applied to the sheet 300. For example, if the first head section 304 moves upward relative to the second head section 306 such that the first upper section 320 of the sheet also moves upward relative to the second upper section 322, the first member 340 projecting from the first upper section 320 of the sheet 300 may deflect downward, and the second member 342 projecting from the second upper section 322 may deflect upward. Similarly, if the second head section 306 moves upward relative to the first head section 304 such that the second upper section 322 of the sheet 300 moves upward relative to the first upper section 320, the second member 342 may deflect upward and the first member 342 may deflect downward.

[0201] The deflected members 340, 342 may be tensioned by the movement of the articulable first head section 304 such that the stress applied to the sheet 300 by the articulable first head section 304 may be distributed across the members 340, 342 without concentrating at the junction 336. The overlapping material where the first member 340 spans over the second member 342 at the junction 336 may also serve to reinforce the sheet 300 at the junction 336 by placing two fabric pieces instead of only one fabric piece at the junction 336. Additionally, any stitching that may be applied to secure the members 340, 342 together and that may be applied to the remainder of the sheet 300 may provide additional structural support to the sheet 300 at the junction 336.

[0202] Due to the close proximity of the adjacent articulable movement sections 304, 306 of the mattress 302, the sheet on the mattress 302 may bunch together or may ride up on the mattress 302, e.g., the movement of the articulable movement sections 304, 306 relative to each other may cause the sheet to move upward along the mattress 302. In an example, the sheet 300 may include one or more features to prevent or mitigate the sheet 300 from wrinkling or riding up during the articulation of the articulable movement sections 304, 306 of the mattress 302.

[0203] In an example, the sheet 300 can include reduced friction panels 350A, 350B (collectively referred to herein as "the plurality of reduced friction panels 350" or "reduced friction panel 350") at locations where a portion of the sheet 300 will contact another portion of the sheet 300 and slide along the other portion of the sheet 300 (e.g., on adjacent and opposing side surfaces 318 of the mattress 302). For example, as shown in Figure 14 FIG. 2, the mattress 302 can include adjacent inner surfaces 318A and 318B on the lateral inner sides of the first articulable section 304 and the second articulable section 306, respectively. The sheet 30 can include corresponding reduced friction panels 350A and 350B configured to cover inner surfaces 318A and 318B, respectively. The reduced friction panels 350A and 350B can include one or more friction reducing materials such that when the articulable sections 304, 306 move relative to each other, the reduced friction panels 350A and 350B can slide freely or relatively freely over each other. Examples of materials that can be used for some or a portion of the reduced friction panels 350A and 350B include, but are not limited to, Lycra spandex fibers (e.g., polyurethane-polyurea copolymer) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) fibers. The reduced friction panels 350A and 350B can be made of the same material, where the material has a low enough coefficient of friction relative to itself, or the reduced friction panels 350A and 350B can be made of different materials, where the coefficient of friction of the material of the first reduced friction panel 350A on the material of the second reduced friction panel 350B is low enough.

[0204] The reduced friction panels 350A and 350B can provide a low enough coefficient of friction between the panels 350A, 350B to prevent the sheet 300 from deforming or to prevent or reduce the sheet 300 from being pushed off the mattress 302 when adjacent articulable sections 304 and 306 or 308 and 310 move relative to each other.

[0205] To better illustrate the present sleep system and method of the present disclosure, a series of non-limiting examples are provided herein:

[0206] Example 1 may include a subject matter (such as a device, apparatus, method, or one or more means for performing an action), such as may include a sleep system. The subject matter may include a mattress, the mattress including a first sleep area for a first occupant and a second sleep area for a second occupant, the first sleep area including a first movable upper section and a first movable lower section, the second sleep area including a second movable upper section adjacent to the first movable upper section and a second movable lower section adjacent to the first lower section. The first movable upper section is separated from and movable relative to the second movable upper section. The first movable lower section and the second movable lower section are coupled together and move together. The sleep system may further include an articulation system for articulating the first movable upper section, the first movable lower section, the second movable upper section, and the second movable lower section, wherein the articulation system is configured to allow independent movement of the first upper movable section and the second upper movable section, and to allow substantially synchronous movement of the first lower movable section and the second lower movable section.

[0207] Example 2 may include the subject matter of Example 1, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of Example 1 to optionally include an articulation system that includes a first actuator for articulating the first movable upper section, a second actuator for articulating the second movable upper section, one or more third actuators for articulating the first movable lower section and the second movable lower section, and one or more controllers for controlling the movement of the first actuator, the second actuator, and the one or more third actuators.

[0208] Example 3 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Example 1 and Example 2, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Example 1 and Example 2 to optionally include an articulation system that includes a first actuator configured to articulate the first movable lower section, a second actuator configured to articulate the second movable lower section, and a controller configured to send one or more first motion control signals to the first actuator and one or more second motion control signals to the second actuator, wherein the first actuator control signal and the second actuator control signal are configured such that the first actuator and the second actuator operate in a substantially synchronous manner.

[0209] Example 4 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-3, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-3 to optionally include a first user control device configured to communicate with an articulated motion system to control the articulated motion of a first movable upper section.

[0210] Example 5 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-4, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-4 to optionally include a second user control device configured to communicate with an articulated motion system to control the articulated motion of a second movable upper section.

[0211] Example 6 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-5, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-5 to optionally include a first user control device configured to control the articulated motion of a first movable lower section and a second movable lower section for substantially synchronous movement.

[0212] Example 7 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-6, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-6 to optionally include a second user control device configured to control the articulated motion of a first movable lower section and a second movable lower section for substantially synchronous movement.

[0213] Example 8 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-7, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-7 to optionally include one or more first support structures in a first sleep area for providing support to a first occupant.

[0214] Example 9 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-8, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-8 to optionally include a first portion of one or more first support structures included in a first movable upper section.

[0215] Example 10 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-9, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-9 to optionally include a second portion of one or more first support structures included in a first movable lower section.

[0216] Example 11 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-10, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 10 to optionally include one or more second support structures within the second sleeping area for providing support to a second occupant.

[0217] Example 12 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-11, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-11 to optionally include a first portion of one or more second support structures included in a second movable upper section.

[0218] Example 13 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-12, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-12 to optionally include a second portion of one or more second support structures included in a second movable lower section.

[0219] Example 14 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-13, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-13 to optionally include one or more first support structures including one or more air chambers.

[0220] Example 15 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-14, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-14 to optionally include one or more first support structures including a plurality of innersprings.

[0221] Example 16 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-15, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-15 to optionally include one or more first support structures including one or more foam structures.

[0222] Example 17 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-16, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-16 to optionally include one or more second support structures including one or more air chambers.

[0223] Example 18 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-17, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-17 to optionally include one or more second support structures including a plurality of innersprings.

[0224] Example 19 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-18, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-18 to optionally include one or more second support structures including one or more foam structures.

[0225] Example 20 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-19, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-19 to include subject matter (such as a device, apparatus, method, or one or more means for performing an action), such as may include a sleep system. The subject matter may include a mattress that includes a movable first section that extends laterally along a first portion of the width of the mattress and longitudinally along a first portion of the length of the mattress, a movable second section that extends laterally along a second portion of the width of the mattress and longitudinally along the first portion of the length of the mattress, and a movable third section that extends generally laterally across the entire width of the mattress and longitudinally along a second portion of the length of the mattress. The sleep system may also include an articulation system configured to articulate the first section, the second section, and the third section independently.

[0226] Example 21 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-20, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-20 to optionally include an articulation system that includes a first actuator for articulating the movable first section, a second actuator for articulating the movable second section, one or more third actuators for articulating the movable third section, and one or more controllers for controlling the movement of the first actuator, the second actuator, and the one or more third actuators.

[0227] Example 22 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-21, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-21 to optionally include an articulation system that includes a first actuator positioned on a first outer side surface of the mattress; a second actuator positioned on a second outer side surface of the mattress, wherein the first actuator and the second actuator cooperate to articulate the movable third section; and a controller configured to send one or more first motion control signals to the first actuator and one or more second motion control signals to the second actuator, wherein the first actuator control signal and the second actuator control signal are configured such that the first actuator and the second actuator operate in a generally synchronous manner.

[0228] Example 23 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-22, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-22 to optionally include a first user control device configured to communicate with the articulation system to control the articulation of the movable first section.

[0229] Example 24 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-23, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-23 to optionally include a first user control device configured to control the articulated movement of a movable third section.

[0230] Example 25 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-24, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-24 to optionally include a second user control device configured to communicate with an articulated motion system to control the articulated movement of a movable second section.

[0231] Example 26 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-25, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-25 to optionally include a second user control device configured to control the articulated movement of a movable third section.

[0232] Example 27 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-26, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-26 to optionally include one or more first support structures within a first portion of a movable first section and a movable third section.

[0233] Example 28 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-27, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-27 to optionally include one or more second support structures within a second portion of a movable second section and a movable third section.

[0234] Example 29 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-28, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-28 to optionally include one or more first support structures including one or more air chambers.

[0235] Example 30 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-29, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-29 to optionally include one or more first support structures including a plurality of built-in springs.

[0236] Example 31 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-30, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-30 to optionally include one or more first support structures including one or more foam structures.

[0237] Example 32 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-31, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-31 to optionally include one or more second support structures that include one or more air chambers.

[0238] Example 33 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-32, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-32 to optionally include one or more second support structures that include a plurality of built-in springs.

[0239] Example 34 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-33, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-33 to optionally include one or more second support structures that include one or more foam structures.

[0240] Example 35 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-34, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-34 to optionally include a fourth section that extends transversely across the entire width of the mattress and longitudinally along a third portion of the length of the mattress, wherein the third portion of the length is longitudinally located between a first portion of the length and a second portion of the length.

[0241] Example 36 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-35, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-35 to include a subject (such as an apparatus, device, method, or one or more means for performing an action), such as may include a sleep system. The subject may include a support frame and a mattress configured to be positioned on the support frame. The mattress may include a movable first head section extending along a first portion of the length of the mattress, a movable second head section laterally adjacent to the movable first section and longitudinally extending along the first portion of the length of the mattress, and a movable leg section longitudinally extending along a second portion of the length of the mattress. A first sleep area for a first occupant may include the movable first head section and a first portion of the movable leg section. A second sleep area for a second occupant may include the movable second head section and a second portion of the movable leg section. The sleep system may further include an articulated motion system including a first head actuator for articulating the movable first head section, a second head actuator for articulating the movable second head section, at least one leg actuator for articulating the movable leg section, and at least one controller for controlling the first head actuator, the second head actuator, and the at least one leg actuator. The sleep system may further include a first user control device and a second user control device, the first user control device configured to communicate with the at least one controller via a first communication link to control the articulation of the movable first head section and to control the articulation of the movable leg section, the second user control device configured to communicate with the at least one controller via a second communication link to control the articulation of the movable second head section and to control the articulation of the movable leg section.

[0242] Example 37 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-36, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-36 to include a subject (such as an apparatus, device, method, or one or more means for performing an action), such as may include a method for controlling an articulated motion bed. The subject may include:

[0243] Sending a first movement control signal from a first user control device to one or more controllers, wherein the first movement control signal includes one or more commands to move a movable first section of the mattress to a selected one of a plurality of positions, wherein the movable first section extends laterally across a first portion of the width of the mattress and longitudinally along a first portion of the length of the mattress;

[0244] Sending a first actuator control signal from the one or more controllers triggered by the first movement control signal to a first articulated motion actuator;

[0245] Move a first movable section to a selected one of a plurality of positions of the first movable section by a first articulated motion actuator in accordance with a first actuator control signal;

[0246] Send a second movement control signal from a second user control device to one or more controllers, wherein the second movement control signal includes one or more commands to move a second movable section of a mattress to a selected one of a plurality of positions of the second movable section, wherein the second movable section is laterally adjacent to the first movable section and extends laterally across a second portion of the width of the mattress and longitudinally along a first portion of the length of the mattress;

[0247] Send a second actuator control signal from one or more controllers triggered by the second movement control signal to a second articulated motion actuator;

[0248] Move the second movable section to a selected one of a plurality of positions of the second movable section by the second articulated motion actuator in accordance with the second actuator control signal;

[0249] Send a third movement control signal from one of the first user control device and the second user control device to one or more controllers, wherein the third movement control signal includes one or more commands to move a third movable section of the mattress to a selected one of a plurality of positions, wherein the third movable section extends longitudinally along a second portion of the length of the mattress;

[0250] Send a third actuator control signal from one or more controllers triggered by the third movement control signal to a third articulated motion actuator configured to apply a force at a first position of the movable third section;

[0251] Send a fourth actuator control signal from one or more controllers triggered by the third movement control signal to a fourth articulated motion actuator configured to apply a force at a second position of the movable third section; and

[0252] Move the third movable section to a selected one of a plurality of positions, wherein the third actuator control signal and the fourth actuator control signal are configured such that the movement of the third articulated motion actuator and the movement of the fourth articulated motion actuator are substantially synchronized such that the movement of the third movable section across the width of the mattress is substantially uniform.

[0253] Example 38 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-37, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-37 to include the subject matter (e.g., a device, apparatus, method, or one or more means for performing an action). For example, Example 38 may include a sleep system that includes an air posture module having an external module housing, the housing including: a first housing section extending longitudinally in the middle along the external module housing to define a movable first posture section, a second housing section adjacent to the first housing section and extending longitudinally along the external module housing to define a movable second posture section, a third housing section defining a third posture section, a fourth housing section extending longitudinally in the middle along the external module housing to define a movable third posture section, a fifth housing section extending longitudinally in the middle along the external module housing to define a movable fourth posture section, one or more first air chambers carried in the first housing section, the third housing section, and the fourth housing section to provide a first posture sleep area, and one or more second air chambers carried in the second housing section, the third housing section, and the fifth module section to provide a second posture sleep area.

[0254] Example 39 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-38, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-38 to optionally include an intermediate slit between the movable first posture section and the movable second posture section.

[0255] Example 40 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-39, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-39 to optionally include a second intermediate slit between the movable third posture section and the movable fourth posture section.

[0256] Example 41 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-40, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-40 to optionally include an inflation system configured to control the pressure in one or more of the first air chambers.

[0257] Example 42 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-41, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-41 to optionally include an inflation system configured to control the pressure in one or more of the second air chambers.

[0258] Example 43 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-43, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-42 to optionally include an articulated motion system configured to articulate a movable first attitude section, a movable second attitude section, a movable third attitude section, and a movable fourth attitude section.

[0259] Example 44 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-43, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-43 to optionally include an articulated motion system that includes one or more actuators configured to articulate one or more of a movable first attitude section, a movable second attitude section, a movable third attitude section, and a movable fourth attitude section.

[0260] Example 45 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-44, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-44 to optionally include an articulated motion system that includes one or more controllers configured to control the movement of one or more actuators.

[0261] Example 46 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-45, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-45 to optionally include one or more actuators that include an actuator for articulating a movable first attitude section.

[0262] Example 47 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-46, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-46 to optionally include one or more actuators that include an actuator for articulating a movable second attitude section.

[0263] Example 48 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-47, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-47 to optionally include one or more actuators that include an actuator for articulating a movable third attitude section.

[0264] Example 49 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-48, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-48 to optionally include one or more actuators that include an actuator for articulating a movable fourth attitude section.

[0265] Example 50 may include the subject matter of any one or combination of Examples 1-49, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of any one or combination of Examples 1-49 to optionally include a first user control device configured to communicate with an articulated motion system to control the articulated motion of a movable first attitude section and a movable third attitude section.

[0266] Example 51 may include the subject matter of any one or combination of Examples 1-50, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of any one or combination of Examples 1-50 to optionally include a user control device configured to communicate with an articulated motion system to control the articulated motion of a movable second attitude section and a movable fourth attitude section.

[0267] Example 52 may include the subject matter of any one or combination of Examples 1-51, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of any one or combination of Examples 1-51 to optionally include one or more actuators, the one or more actuators including a controller configured to control the articulated motion of a movable first attitude section and a movable second attitude section.

[0268] Example 53 may include the subject matter of any one or combination of Examples 1-52, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of any one or combination of Examples 1-52 to optionally include one or more actuators, the one or more actuators including a controller configured to control the articulated motion of a movable third attitude section and a movable fourth attitude section.

[0269] Example 54 may include the subject matter of any one or combination of Examples 1-53, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of any one or combination of Examples 1-53 to optionally include one or more controllers, the one or more controllers including a first controller configured to control the articulated motion of a movable first attitude section and a movable second attitude section and a second controller configured to control the articulated motion of a movable third attitude section and a movable fourth attitude section.

[0270] Example 55 may include the subject matter of any one or combination of Examples 1-54, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of any one or combination of Examples 1-54 to optionally include one or more actuators, the one or more actuators including a controller configured to control the articulated motion of a movable first attitude section and a movable third attitude section.

[0271] Example 56 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-55, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-55 to optionally include one or more actuators that include a controller configured to control the articulated movement of a movable second attitude section and a movable fourth attitude section.

[0272] Example 57 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-56, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-56 to optionally include one or more controllers that include a first controller configured to control the articulated movement of a movable first attitude section and a movable third attitude section and a second controller configured to control the articulated movement of a movable second attitude section and a movable fourth attitude section.

[0273] Example 58 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-57, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-57 to optionally include an inflation system configured to control the pressure in one or more first air chambers and one or more second air chambers.

[0274] Example 59 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-58, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-58 to optionally include an inflation system that includes one or more pumps.

[0275] Example 60 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-59, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-59 to optionally include one or more controllers of an articulated movement system that are configured to control one or more pumps of an inflation system.

[0276] Example 61 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-60, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-60 to include a subject matter (such as a device, apparatus, method, or one or more means for performing an action), such as may include a sleep system. The subject matter may include a mattress that includes a first sleep area for a first occupant, the first sleep area including a first movable upper section and a first movable lower section. The mattress may further include a second sleep area for a second occupant, the second sleep area including a second movable upper section adjacent to the first movable upper section and a second movable lower section adjacent to the first lower section. The mattress may further include a common intermediate section extending between the first sleep area and the second sleep area, the common intermediate section being positioned between the movable upper sections and the movable lower sections of each of the first sleep area and the second sleep area. The mattress may include one or more first air chambers carried by the first movable upper section, the first movable lower section, and a first portion of the common intermediate section. The mattress may further include one or more second air chambers carried by the second movable upper section, the second movable lower section, and a second portion of the common intermediate section. The sleep system may further include an articulation system for articulating the first movable upper section, the first movable lower section, the second movable upper section, and the second movable lower section.

[0277] Example 62 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-61, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-61 to optionally include a mattress that further includes an intermediate slit between the first movable upper section and the second movable upper section.

[0278] Example 63 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-62, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-62 to optionally include a mattress that further includes an intermediate slit between the first movable lower section and the second movable lower section.

[0279] Example 64 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-63, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-63 to optionally include an inflation system configured to control the pressure within one or more of the first air chambers.

[0280] Example 65 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-64, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-64 to optionally include an inflation system configured to control the pressure within one or more of the second air chambers.

[0281] Example 66 can include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-65, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-65 to optionally include an inflation system configured to control the pressure in one or more first air chambers and one or more second air chambers.

[0282] Example 67 can include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-66, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-66 to optionally include an articulated motion system that includes one or more actuators configured to cause one or more of a first movable upper section, a second movable upper section, a first movable lower section, and a second movable lower section to move in an articulated manner.

[0283] Example 68 can include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-67, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-67 to optionally include one or more controllers configured to control the movement of one or more actuators.

[0284] Example 69 can include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-68, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-68 to optionally include one or more actuators, where the one or more actuators include a first actuator for causing the first movable upper section to move in an articulated manner, a second actuator for causing the second movable upper section to move in an articulated manner, a third actuator for causing the first movable lower section to move in an articulated manner, and a fourth actuator for causing the second movable lower section to move in an articulated manner.

[0285] Example 70 can include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-69, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-69 to optionally include one or more controllers that include a controller configured to control the articulated movement of the first movable upper section and the second movable upper section.

[0286] Example 71 can include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-70, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-70 to optionally include one or more controllers that include a controller configured to control the articulated movement of the first movable lower section and the second movable lower section.

[0287] Example 72 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-71, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-71 to optionally include one or more controllers, the one or more controllers including a first controller configured to control the articulated movement of a first movable upper section and a second movable upper section and a second controller configured to control the articulated movement of a first movable lower section and a second movable lower section.

[0288] Example 73 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-72, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-72 to optionally include one or more controllers, the one or more controllers including a controller configured to control the articulated movement of a first movable upper section and a first movable lower section.

[0289] Example 74 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-73, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-73 to optionally include one or more controllers, the one or more controllers including a controller configured to control the articulated movement of a second movable upper section and a second movable lower section.

[0290] Example 75 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-74, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-74 to optionally include one or more controllers, the one or more controllers including a first controller configured to control the articulated movement of a first movable upper section and a first movable lower section and a second controller configured to control the articulated movement of a second movable upper section and a second movable lower section.

[0291] Example 76 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-75, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-75 to optionally include an inflation system configured to control the pressure in one or more first air chambers.

[0292] Example 77 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-76, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-76 to optionally include an inflation system configured to control the pressure in one or more second air chambers.

[0293] Example 78 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-77, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-77 to optionally include an inflation system configured to control the pressure in one or more first air chambers and one or more second air chambers.

[0294] Example 79 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1 - 78, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1 - 78 to optionally include an inflation system that includes one or more pumps.

[0295] Example 80 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1 - 79, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1 - 79 to optionally include one or more controllers of an articulated motion system, the one or more controllers being configured to control one or more pumps of the inflation system.

[0296] Example 81 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1 - 80, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1 - 80 to optionally include a user control device configured to communicate with the articulated motion system to control the articulated motion of a first movable upper section and a first movable lower section.

[0297] Example 82 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1 - 81, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1 - 81 to optionally include a user control device configured to communicate with the articulated motion system to control the articulated motion of a second movable upper section and a second movable lower section.

[0298] Example 83 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1 - 82, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1 - 82 to optionally include a first user control device and a second user control device, the first user control device being configured to communicate with the articulated motion system to control the articulated motion of a first movable upper section and a first movable lower section, and the second user control device being configured to communicate with the articulated motion system to control the articulated motion of a second movable upper section and a second movable lower section.

[0299] Example 84 can include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-83, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-83 to include a subject (such as an apparatus, device, method, or one or more means for performing an action). For example, Example 84 can include a sheet for covering at least a portion of a mattress, the mattress including a movable first section and a movable second section that is laterally adjacent and abuts the movable first section. The subject matter can include a first sheet section configured to cover at least a portion of the movable first section of the mattress, and a second sheet section that is laterally adjacent to the first sheet section and is configured to cover at least a portion of the movable second section of the mattress, wherein the first sheet section and the second sheet section are joined together at a sheet joining point. The sheet can further include a first member and a second member, the first member projecting laterally from the first sheet section toward the second sheet section and extending upward to the sheet joining point, and the second member projecting laterally from the second sheet section toward the first sheet section and extending upward to the sheet joining point. At least a portion of the first member can overlap at least a portion of the second member adjacent to the sheet joining point.

[0300] Example 85 can include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-84, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-84 to optionally include a mattress that further includes a joining section, wherein the movable first section and the movable second section are pivotally coupled to the joining section.

[0301] Example 86 can include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-85, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-85 to optionally include a sheet that further includes a joined sheet section configured to cover the joining section, wherein the first sheet section, the second sheet section, and the joined sheet section meet at a sheet joining point.

[0302] Example 87 can include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-86, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-86 to optionally include a mattress that further includes a movable third section and a movable fourth section that is laterally adjacent and abuts the movable third section, wherein the movable third section and the movable fourth section are pivotally coupled to the joining section.

[0303] Example 88 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-87, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-87 to optionally include a bed sheet that further includes a third bed sheet section configured to cover at least a portion of a movable third section of a mattress and a fourth bed sheet section that is laterally adjacent to the third bed sheet section, the fourth bed sheet section being configured to cover at least a portion of a movable fourth section of the mattress, wherein the third bed sheet section, the fourth bed sheet section, and the joined bed sheet sections meet at a second bed sheet junction point.

[0304] Example 89 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-88, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-88 to optionally include a third member that projects laterally from the third bed sheet section toward the fourth bed sheet section, the third member extending upward to the second bed sheet junction point.

[0305] Example 90 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-89, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-89 to optionally include a fourth member that projects laterally from the fourth bed sheet section toward the third bed sheet section, the fourth member extending upward to the second bed sheet junction point.

[0306] Example 91 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-90, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-90 to optionally include at least a portion of at least a portion of the third member that overlaps and abuts at least a portion of the fourth member at the second bed sheet junction point.

[0307] Example 92 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-91, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-91 to optionally include a first bed sheet section that includes a first side surface configured to cover a first side portion of a movable first section of a mattress.

[0308] Example 93 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-92, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-92 to optionally include a second bed sheet section that includes a second side surface configured to cover a second side portion of a movable second section of a mattress.

[0309] Example 94 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-93, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-93 to optionally include the first side surface that abuts or contacts the second side surface when the bed sheet covers the mattress.

[0310] Example 95 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-94, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-94 to optionally include at least a portion of a first side that includes one or more friction-reducing materials.

[0311] Example 96 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-95, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-95 to optionally include at least a portion of a second side that includes one or more friction-reducing materials.

[0312] Example 97 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-96, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-96 to optionally include at least a portion of a first side that includes one or more friction-reducing materials and at least a portion of a second side that includes one or more friction-reducing materials.

[0313] Example 98 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-97, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-97 to optionally include one or more friction-reducing materials that include Lycra spandex fibers.

[0314] Example 99 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-98, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-98 to optionally include one or more friction-reducing materials that include polytetrafluoroethylene fibers.

[0315] Example 100 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-99, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-99 to include a subject (such as an apparatus, device, method, or one or more means for performing an action). For example, Example 100 may include a sheet for covering at least a portion of a mattress, the mattress including a movable first section and a movable second section that is laterally adjacent and abuts the movable first section. The subject may include a top member configured to cover a top surface of the mattress and one or more side members coupled to the top member, the one or more side members being configured to cover one or more side surfaces of the mattress. A first portion of the one or more side members may be configured to cover a side surface of the movable first section adjacent the second movable section. A second portion of the one or more side members may be configured to cover a side surface of the movable second section adjacent the first movable section such that when the sheet covers the mattress, the first portion of the one or more side members abuts or contacts the second portion of the one or more side members. The first portion of the one or more side members and the second portion of the one or more side members include one or more friction-reducing materials.

[0316] Example 101 may include one or any combination of the subjects in Examples 1 - 100, or may optionally be combined with one or any combination of the subjects in Examples 1 - 100 to optionally include a friction-reducing material containing Lycra spandex fibers.

[0317] Example 102 may include one or any combination of the subjects in Examples 1 - 101, or may optionally be combined with one or any combination of the subjects in Examples 1 - 101 to optionally include a friction-reducing material containing polytetrafluoroethylene fibers.

[0318] Example 103 may include one or any combination of the subjects in Examples 1 - 102, or may optionally be combined with one or any combination of the subjects in Examples 1 - 102 to optionally include a sheet for covering at least a portion of a mattress, the mattress including a movable first section and a movable second section that is laterally adjacent and abuts the movable first section. The sheet may include a first sheet section configured to cover at least a portion of the movable first section of the mattress, and a second sheet section that is laterally adjacent to the first sheet section and is configured to cover at least a portion of the movable second section of the mattress. The first sheet section and the second sheet section are joined together at a sheet joining point. The sheet may include a first member and a second member, the first member projecting laterally from the first sheet section toward the second sheet section, the first member extending upward to the sheet joining point, the second member projecting laterally from the second sheet section toward the first sheet section, the second member extending upward to the sheet joining point. At least a portion of the first member overlaps at least a portion of the second member adjacent to the sheet joining point. The first sheet section includes a first side configured to cover a first side surface of the movable first section of the mattress, and the second sheet section includes a second side configured to cover a second side surface of the movable second section of the mattress such that when the sheet covers the mattress, the first side abuts or contacts the second side.

[0319] Example 104 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1 - 103, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1 - 103 to optionally include a sheet for covering at least a portion of a mattress, the mattress including a movable first section and a movable second section that is laterally adjacent and abuts the movable first section. The sheet may include a first sheet section configured to cover at least a portion of the movable first section of the mattress, and a second sheet section that is laterally adjacent the first sheet section and is configured to cover at least a portion of the movable second section of the mattress. The first sheet section and the second sheet section are joined together at a sheet joining point. The sheet may include a first member and a second member, the first member projecting laterally from the first sheet section toward the second sheet section, the first member extending upwardly to the sheet joining point, the second member projecting laterally from the second sheet section toward the first sheet section, the second member extending upwardly to the sheet joining point. At least a portion of the first member overlaps at least a portion of the second member that abuts the sheet joining point. The mattress further includes a joining section, wherein the movable first section and the movable second section are pivotally coupled to the joining section. The sheet further includes a joined sheet section configured to cover the joining section, wherein the first sheet section, the second sheet section, and the joined sheet section meet at the sheet joining point. The mattress may further include a movable third section and a movable fourth section that is laterally adjacent and abuts the movable third section, wherein the movable third section and the movable fourth section are pivotally coupled to the joining section. The sheet may further include a third sheet section configured to cover at least a portion of the movable third section of the mattress, and a fourth sheet section that is laterally adjacent the third sheet section and is configured to cover at least a portion of the movable fourth section of the mattress. The third sheet section, the fourth sheet section, and the joined sheet section meet at a second sheet joining point. The sheet may further include a third member and a fourth member, the third member projecting laterally from the third sheet section toward the fourth sheet section, the third member extending upwardly to the second sheet joining point, the fourth member projecting laterally from the fourth sheet section toward the third sheet section, the fourth member extending upwardly to the second sheet joining point. At least a portion of the third member overlaps at least a portion of the fourth member that abuts the second sheet joining point.

[0320] Example 105 may include the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-104, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-104 to optionally include a sheet for covering at least a portion of a mattress, the mattress including a movable first section and a movable second section that is laterally adjacent and abuts the movable first section. The sheet may include a top member configured to cover a top surface of the mattress and one or more side members coupled to the top member, the one or more side members being configured to cover one or more side surfaces of the mattress. A first portion of the one or more side members is configured to cover a side surface of the movable first section adjacent the second movable section, and a second portion of the one or more side members is configured to cover a side surface of the movable second section adjacent the first movable section such that when the sheet covers the mattress, the first portion of the one or more side members contacts the second portion of the one or more side members. The first portion of the one or more side members and the second portion of the one or more side members include one or more materials having a coefficient of friction less than the coefficient of friction of the top member.

[0321] The above detailed description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the above examples (or one or more elements thereof) may be used in combination with each other. For example, one of ordinary skill in the art after reviewing the above description may use other embodiments. Additionally, various features or elements may be combined together to simplify the disclosure. This should not be construed as intending that features of the disclosure that are not claimed are essential to any claim. Instead, the inventive subject matter may lie in less than all of the features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Accordingly, the appended claims are hereby incorporated into the detailed description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims along with the full scope of equivalents to such claims.

[0322] If there is inconsistent usage between this document and any document incorporated by reference in this way, the usage in this document controls.

[0323] In this document, as is common in patent documents, the terms "a" or "an" are used to include one or more than one, independent of any other instances or uses of "at least one" or "one or more". In this document, the term "or" is used to mean non-exclusive, such that "A or B" includes "A but not B", "B but not A", and "A and B", unless otherwise stated. In this document, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the plain English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and "wherein". Additionally, in the appended claims, the terms "including" and "comprising" are open-ended, i.e., a system, apparatus, article, composition, formula, or process that includes elements other than those listed after such term in the claim is still considered to fall within the scope of that claim. Further, in the appended claims, the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. are used only as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

[0324] Examples of the methods described herein may be at least partially machine or computer-implemented. Some examples may include a computer-readable medium or a machine-readable medium encoded with instructions that are operable to configure an electronic device to perform the methods or method steps described in the examples above. The implementation of such methods or method steps may include code (such as microcode, assembly language code, high-level language code, or the like). The code may include computer-readable instructions for performing various methods. The code may form part of a computer program product. Additionally, in an example, the code may be tangibly stored on one or more volatile, non-transitory, or non-volatile tangible computer-readable media, such as, for example, during execution or at other times. Examples of such tangible computer-readable media may include, but are not limited to, hard disks, removable disks, removable optical disks (such as compact disks and digital video disks), magnetic tape cartridges, memory cards or memory sticks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), or the like.

[0325] The abstract is provided to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the essence of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.

[0326] Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A sleep system, comprising: Mattress, comprising: -- a first sleeping area for a first occupant, the first sleeping area including a first movable upper section and a first movable lower section; -- a second sleeping area for a second occupant, the second sleeping area including a second movable upper section adjacent to the first movable upper section and a second movable lower section adjacent to the first movable lower section; -- wherein the first movable upper section is separated from and movable relative to the second movable upper section by a first slit extending longitudinally from the upper end of the mattress between the first movable upper section and the second movable upper section; and -- wherein the first movable lower section is separated from and movable relative to the second movable lower section by a second slit extending longitudinally from the lower end of the mattress between the first movable lower section and the second movable lower section; and an articulated motion system for causing articulated motion of the first movable upper section, the first movable lower section, the second movable upper section, and the second movable lower section; wherein the articulated motion system is configured to allow independent movement of the first movable upper section, the second movable upper section, the first movable lower section, and the second movable lower section, and wherein the articulated motion system includes: -- a first actuator for causing articulated motion of the first movable upper section; -- a second actuator for causing articulated motion of the second movable upper section; -- a third actuator configured to cause articulated motion of the first movable lower section; -- a fourth actuator configured to cause articulated motion of the second movable lower section; and -- a controller configured to send one or more first motion control signals to the first actuator, one or more second motion control signals to the second actuator, one or more third motion signals to the third actuator, and one or more fourth motion signals to the fourth actuator, wherein at least a portion of each of the first movable lower section and the second movable lower section remains substantially horizontal when the first movable lower section and the second movable lower section articulate either upward or downward.

2. The sleep system according to claim 1, further comprising: A first user control device and a second user control device, the first user control device configured to communicate with the articulated motion system to control the articulated motion of the first movable upper section, the second user control device configured to communicate with the articulated motion system to control the articulated motion of the second movable upper section; and / or The joined intermediate section of the mattress, the joined intermediate section being positioned between the first movable upper section and the first movable lower section and also between the second movable upper section and the second movable lower section, wherein a first air chamber is positioned in each of the first movable upper section, the joined intermediate section, and the first movable lower section, and wherein a second air chamber is positioned in each of the second movable upper section, the joined intermediate section, and the second movable lower section.

3. The sleep system according to claim 1, further comprising a first user control device and a second user control device, the first user control device being configured to communicate with the articulated motion system to control the articulated motion of the first movable upper section, the second user control device being configured to communicate with the articulated motion system to control the articulated motion of the second movable upper section, wherein the first user control device is further configured to control the articulated motion of the first movable lower section.

4. The sleep system according to claim 1, further comprising a first user control device and a second user control device, the first user control device being configured to communicate with the articulated motion system to control the articulated motion of the first movable upper section, the second user control device being configured to communicate with the articulated motion system to control the articulated motion of the second movable upper section, wherein the second user control device is further configured to control the articulated motion of the second movable lower section.

5. The sleep system according to any one of claims 1, 3, and 4, further comprising: One or more first support structures for providing support to a first occupant within the first sleep area, wherein a first portion of the one or more first support structures is contained within the first movable upper section and a second portion of the one or more first support structures is contained within the first movable lower section; and One or more second support structures for providing support to a second occupant within the second sleep area, wherein a first portion of the one or more second support structures is contained within the second movable upper section and a second portion of the one or more second support structures is contained within the second movable lower section.

6. The sleep system according to claim 5, wherein the one or more first support structures include at least one of the following: one or more air chambers; a plurality of built-in springs; and one or more foam structures.

7. The sleep system according to any one of claims 5 - 6, wherein the one or more second support structures include at least one of the following: one or more air chambers; a plurality of innersprings; and one or more foam structures.

8. The sleep system according to claim 1, wherein, The first actuator includes a first motor causing articulated movement, the second actuator includes a second motor causing articulated movement, the third actuator includes a third motor causing articulated movement, and the fourth actuator includes a fourth motor causing articulated movement; and / or Wherein, the sleep system further includes a sheet covering the mattress; and / or Wherein, a low-friction material is positioned in the first gap between the first movable upper section and the second movable upper section and in the second gap between the first movable lower section and the second movable lower section; and / or Wherein, the sleep system further includes the joined intermediate section of the mattress, the joined intermediate section being positioned between the first movable upper section and the first movable lower section and also between the second movable upper section and the second movable lower section.

9. The sleep system according to any one of claims 1 - 8, wherein the controller includes one or more controllers for controlling the movement of the first actuator, the second actuator, the third actuator, and the fourth actuator.

10. The sleep system according to any one of claims 2 - 7 and 9, wherein the first actuator includes a first motor causing articulated movement, the second actuator includes a second motor causing articulated movement, the third actuator includes a third motor causing articulated movement, and the fourth actuator includes a fourth motor causing articulated movement.

11. The sleep system according to claim 1 or 8, further comprising a first user control device configured to communicate with the articulated movement system to control the articulated movement of the first movable upper section.

12. The sleep system according to claim 11, wherein the first user control device is further configured to control the articulated movement of the first movable lower section.

13. The sleep system according to claim 1 or 8, further comprising a second user control device configured to communicate with the articulated movement system to control the articulated movement of the second movable upper section.

14. The sleep system according to claim 13, wherein the second user control device is further configured to control the articulated movement of the second movable lower section.

15. The sleep system according to any one of claims 2 - 7, further comprising: A sheet, the sheet covering the mattress.

16. The sleep system according to any one of claims 3 - 7, further comprising an engaged intermediate section that extends horizontally across the entire width of the mattress and extends longitudinally between the first movable upper section and the first movable lower section and between the second movable upper section and the second movable lower section.

17. A sleep system, comprising: A support frame; A mattress configured to be positioned on the support frame, the mattress including: -- A movable first head section longitudinally extending along a first portion of the length of the mattress; -- A movable second head section transversely adjacent to the movable first head section and longitudinally extending along the first portion of the length of the mattress, wherein the movable first head section is separated from the movable second head section by a first gap longitudinally extending from the upper end of the mattress between the movable first head section and the movable second head section; -- A movable first leg section longitudinally extending along a second portion of the length of the mattress; -- A movable second leg section that extends longitudinally along the second portion of the length of the mattress, wherein the movable first leg section is separated from the movable second leg section by a second slit that extends longitudinally from the lower end of the mattress between the movable first leg section and the movable second leg section; and -- wherein a first sleeping area for a first occupant includes the movable first head section and the movable first leg section, and wherein a second sleeping area for a second occupant includes the movable second head section and the movable second leg section; An articulated motion system, comprising: -- A first head actuator for articulating the movable first head section; -- A second head actuator for articulating the movable second head section; -- A first leg actuator for articulating the movable first leg section; -- A second leg actuator for articulating the movable second leg section; and -- At least one controller for controlling the first head actuator, the second head actuator, the first leg actuator, and the second leg actuator; -- A first user control device configured to communicate with the at least one controller via a first communication link to control the articulation of the movable first head section and to control the articulation of the movable first leg section; and -- A second user control device configured to communicate with the at least one controller via a second communication link to control the articulation of the movable second head section and to control the articulation of the movable second leg section.

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