Separable comforter with slits

Abstract

A comforter includes two or more separable portions configured to be detachably connected to form a unitary comforter. At least one opening is formed in at least one of the separable portions, the opening extending through the separable portion. The opening is positioned adjacent an outer edge of the separable portion and spaced inward from the outer edge such that comforter material remains between the opening and the outer edge. The opening is configured to receive a hanger element to support the separable portion. In some implementations, the opening is configured as a slit, and in some implementations, the opening may be reinforced to resist tearing. The separable portions may be individually suspended for drying or storage.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 63 / 781,327, which was filed on Mar. 31, 2025, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This disclosure relates to a separable comforter with slits.BACKGROUND

[0003] A comforter is a thick bed covering made of an outer layer forming an enclosure containing a filling. The outer layer is a cloth and the filling may be down feathers, wool, cotton, or synthetic fibers. Comforters are often stitched or quilted to keep the filling evenly distributed.

[0004] However, due to their size and bulkiness, comforters are difficult to wash and dry as they do not easily fit into a standard washing machine or dryer. Furthermore, due to their size and bulkiness, they are difficult to fold for storage.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] FIG. 1 illustrates an example implementation of a separable comforter with slits according to the present disclosure.

[0006] FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of the separable comforter with slits of FIG. 1 according to the present disclosure.

[0007] FIG. 3 illustrates another example implementation of a separable comforter with slits according to the present disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded view of the separable comforter with slits of FIG. 3 according to the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 5 illustrates example implementations of hanger elements according to the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 6 illustrates an example implementation of a slit in a separable portion of a comforter according to the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0011] The present disclosure relates to implementations of a separable comforter with openings (e.g., slits or any other suitable opening). In some implementations, the comforter comprises two or more separable or detachable portions where each portion comprises one or more openings extending through the portion including, in some implementation, extending through opposing outer layers of the portion. In some implementations, one or more of the portions have no openings through the portion. In some implementations, the comforter comprises at least three separable or detachable portions.

[0012] In some implementations, the openings are configured as slits formed through the comforter including, in some implementations, opposing outer layers of the comforter. In this way, the openings are substantially flush with the surrounding fabric surface. In other words, the slits do not introduce protrusions that may interfere with the comfort, drape, or aesthetic appearance of the comforter.

[0013] In some implementations, the slit comprises an elongated separation in the material of the comforter forming an elongated opening defined by opposing slit edges. In some implementations, the slit is formed such that the opposing slit edges are adjacent one another when the slit is not in use and separate to define the opening when a force is applied. In some implementations, the slit is formed such that there is a gap between the opposing slit edges when the slit is not in use.

[0014] In some implementations, because of the bulkiness of comforters, the slits may be hard to notice visually. Still further, in some implementations, slits have a low profile opening and thus may be minimally visible.

[0015] In some implementations, the edges of the slit overlap to conceal the opening when not in use. In some implementations, the slit includes opposing slit edges defining an opening therebetween, wherein one of the slit edges extends over the opposing slit edge such that the opening is concealed when not in use.

[0016] In some implementations, additional material may be provided over the slit to conceal the opening, such as a flap or covering layer that extends over the slit and can be moved to expose the opening.

[0017] In some implementations, slit-based openings of the present disclosure are distinct from openings formed from tabs, loops, or attached hanging elements, as such structures may interfere with the appearance of the comforter. That is, tabs or loops extend outward from the surface and may be perceptible to a user during use. Slits, on the other hand, may maintain a generally continuous outer surface, thereby preserving the traditional look and feel of a comforter.

[0018] In some implementations, the slit is formed such that opposing edges of the slit are biased toward one another, thereby tending to close the slit when not in use. In other words, the opposing edges of the slit may naturally rest against one another such that the slit remains generally closed until a force is applied to separate the edges. This biasing toward one another may be caused by one or more structural characteristics of the comforter, including fabric tension within the outer layers, stitching surrounding the slit, quilting patterns that draw material inward, and / or compression from internal filling materials that urge the outer layers together in the region of the slit. In some implementations, the edges around the slit may be reinforced internally with a material that tends to close the opening, such as an elastic material, resilient fabric, interfacing, bias tape, or other reinforcement layer that provides a restoring force urging the slit toward a closed position. As a result, the slit may appear closed or minimally visible when not in use while still being capable of being opened to receive a hanger or support element.

[0019] In some implementations, the use of slits as described herein preserves the comfort characteristics of the comforter during use. Because the slits are formed within the outer layers and do not introduce protruding structures, the surface of the comforter remains generally smooth and uniform. This may reduce the formation of localized pressure points and avoid discomfort that could otherwise be caused by protruding elements such as tabs, loops, or attached structures. Additionally, the low-profile nature of the slits allows the comforter to maintain its intended drape and thickness distribution across its surface.

[0020] In some implementations, the opening is sized and positioned to receive a hanger element while maintaining sufficient material between the slit and an outer edge of the comforter to support the weight of the comforter during hanging. In some implementations, the slit is positioned adjacent an outer edge but spaced inward therefrom such that the material between the slit and the outer edge bears a load when the comforter is suspended.

[0021] In some implementations, the opening may be reinforced to resist tearing during use. For example, edges of the opening may be reinforced with stitching, binding, interfacing, or additional material layers. In some implementations, reinforcement material may be provided along one or more edges of the opening to distribute stress when the comforter is suspended from the opening. Such reinforcement may include fabric reinforcement layers, stitched borders, bias tape, grommets, or other materials configured to increase durability of the opening during repeated use.

[0022] In some implementations, the opening is configured to receive a hanger element for suspending a portion of the comforter. The hanger element may include, for example, a hook, rod, bar, or other support structure capable of engaging the opening to support the weight of the comforter or a portion thereof. In some implementations, the hanger element is part of a hanger, drying rack, closet rod, or similar support device. In some implementations, the opening is sized to receive a hook portion of a garment hanger.

[0023] In some implementations, the opening is sized to receive a hanger element while maintaining sufficient structural integrity of the comforter. In some implementations, the opening has a size sufficient to receive a hanger element while limiting enlargement of the opening during use. In some implementations, the size of the opening is selected based on the thickness and weight of the comforter such that the opening supports the comforter without tearing. In some implementations, the opening is sized to balance ease of insertion of a hanger element with concealment of the opening when not in use.

[0024] In some implementations, the opening has a length in a range of approximately 0.5 inches to approximately 4 inches. In some implementations, the opening has a length in a range of approximately 0.75 inches to approximately 2.5 inches. In some implementations, the length is less than 0.5 inches. In some implementations, the length is greater than 4 inches. The length of the slit may be selected based on the thickness, weight, and material of the comforter such that the opening permits insertion of a hanger element while limiting tearing or deformation during use.

[0025] In some implementations, the comforter of the present disclosure is a rectangular shape. In some implementations, the comforter is configured to be divided into two or more smaller portions using fasteners. In some implementations, the smaller portions are rectangular shaped. In some implementations, the smaller portions are any suitable shape.

[0026] In some implementations, the fasteners are zippers. In some implementations, the fasteners are snaps. In some implementations, the fasteners are buttons or any other suitable fasteners.

[0027] In some implementations, a fastener extends from one outer edge to an opposite outer edge to separate two adjacent portions of a comforter.

[0028] In some implementations, a fastener does not extend from one outer edge to an opposite outer edge. Instead, the fastener encircles an interior portion of the comfortable to separate an interior portion of the comforter from the remaining outer portion of the comforter. In some implementations, the interior portion is rectangular shaped. In some implementations, the interior portion is circular shaped. In some implementations, the interior portion is any suitable shape.

[0029] In some implementations, for each smaller portion, one or more openings are positioned adjacent one or more outermost edges of the portion. In some implementations, for each smaller portion, the one or more openings are near one or more outermost edges of the portion. In some implementations, the openings are configured in the form of a slit. In some implementations, one or more or all of the smaller portions have no openings / slits as described through the portion(s).

[0030] In some implementations, one or more portions of the comforter may be hung for drying or storage using one or more of the opening. For example, a hook portion of a hanger is inserted through an opening of the comforter so that the comforter portion may be secured to the hanger and hang from the hanger.

[0031] In some implementations, a method of storing a comforter of the present disclosure comprises detaching the separable portions of the comforter and then hanging for storage each portion on a hanger element using one or more openings.

[0032] In some implementations, a method of drying a comforter of the present disclosure comprises detaching the separable portions of the comforter, washing each portion, and then hanging for drying each portion on a hanger using one or more openings.

[0033] FIG. 1 illustrates an example implementation of a separable comforter with slits 100 according to the present disclosure. FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of the separable comforter 100 of FIG. 1 according to the present disclosure.

[0034] In some implementations, the comforter 100 is a thick bed covering made of an outer layer forming an enclosure containing a filling. In some implementations, the outer layer is a cloth. In some implementations, the filling may be down feathers, wool, cotton, or synthetic fibers.

[0035] In some implementations, the comforter 100 comprises two or more separable / detachable portions 110a, 110b, 110c where each portion 110a, 110b, 110c comprises one or more openings / slits 120 through the portion. In some implementations, the comforter 100 comprises at least three separable / detachable portions. As mentioned above, in some implementations, one or more of the portions have no openings / slits through the portion.

[0036] In some implementations, the slit comprises a separation in the material of the comforter forming an opening defined by opposing slit edges. In some implementations, the slit is formed that the opposing slit edges are adjacent to one another when the slit is not in use and separate to define the opening when a force is applied.

[0037] In some implementations, because of the bulkiness of comforters, the slits may be hard to notice visually. Still further, in some implementations, slits have a low profile opening and thus may be minimally visible.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 6, in some implementations, the edges of the slit 620 overlap to conceal the opening when not in use. In some implementations, the slit includes opposing slit edges defining an opening therebetween, wherein one of the slit edges extends over the opposing slit edge such that the opening is concealed when not in use.

[0039] In some implementations, the comforter 100 is rectangular shape. In some implementations, the comforter 100 is any suitable shape.

[0040] In some implementations, the comforter 100 is configured to be divided into two or more smaller portions 110a, 110b, 110c using fasteners 140a, 140b.

[0041] In some implementations, the fasteners 140a, 140b are zippers. In some implementations, the fasteners 140a, 140b are snaps. In some implementations, the fasteners 140a, 140b are buttons or any other suitable fasteners. In some implementations, a fastener (e.g., 140a) extends from one edge (e.g., 130a) to an opposite edge (e.g., 130b) to separate two adjacent portions (e.g., 110a and 110b) of a comforter.

[0042] FIG. 3 illustrates another example implementation of a separable comforter 300 according to the present disclosure. FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded view of the separable comforter 300 of FIG. 3 according to the present disclosure.

[0043] The comforter 300 comprises two or more separable / detachable portions 310a, 310b where each portion 310a, 310b comprises one or more openings / slits 320 through the portion. As mentioned above, in some implementations, one or more of the portions have no openings / slits through the portion.

[0044] In some implementations, the comforter 300 is rectangular shape. In some implementations, the comforter 300 is any suitable shape.

[0045] In some implementations, the comforter 300 is configured to be divided into two or more smaller portions 310a, 310b using fastener 340.

[0046] In some implementations, the fastener 340 encircles an interior portion 310b of the comfortable 300 to separate the interior portion 310b of the comforter from the remaining outer portion 310a of the comforter. In some implementations, the interior portion 310b is rectangular shaped. In some implementations, the interior portion is circular shaped. In some implementations, the interior portion is any suitable shape.

[0047] In some implementations, for each smaller portion 110a, 110b, 110c, 310a, 310b, one or more openings 120, 320 are positioned adjacent one or more outermost edges of the portion.

[0048] In some implementations, for each smaller portion, the one or more openings 120, 320 are near one or more outermost edges of the portion. Although the figures show the openings 120, 320 on one end of the comforter, openings also may be on an opposite end. In this way, the comforter or a smaller portion of the comforter may be folded while hanging from a hanger element.

[0049] In some implementations, the one or more openings 120, 320 are positioned in any suitable position.

[0050] In some implementations, the openings are configured in the form of a slit. In some implementations, the openings are configured in any suitable form.

[0051] As mentioned above, in some implementations, there are no openings / slits through one, more, or all of the smaller portion.

[0052] In some implementations, a method of storing a comforter 100, 300 of the present disclosure comprises detaching one or more of the separable portions 110a, 110b, 110c, 310a, 310b of the comforter and then hanging a portion of the comforter (e.g., either a separable portion or the remainder of the comforter after a separable portion is removed) on a hanger element for storage using one or more openings 120, 320. For example, a hook portion 500a, 500b, 500c of a hanger may be inserted through an opening on one end of the comforter portion so that the comforter portion may be secured to the hanger and hang from the hanger. In some implementations, the opposite end of the comforter portion also may be secured to the hanger by inserting the hook portion through the opening on the opposite end of the comforter portion.

[0053] In some implementations, a method of drying the comforter 100, 300 of the present disclosure comprises detaching one or more of the separable portions 110a, 110b, 110c, 310a, 310b of the comforter, washing a portion of the comforter, and then hanging a portion of the comforter on a hanger for drying using one or more openings.

[0054] The figures, including photographs and drawings, comprised herewith may represent one or more implementations of the present disclosure.

[0055] Details shown in the figures, such as dimensions, descriptions, etc., are exemplary, and there may be implementations of other suitable details according to the present disclosure.

[0056] Reference throughout this specification to “an embodiment” or “implementation” or words of similar import means that a particular described feature, structure, or characteristic is comprised in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the phrase “in some implementations” or a phrase of similar import in various places throughout this specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.

[0057] Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which these inventions pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings.

[0058] The described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the above description, numerous specific details are provided for a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that embodiments of the invention can be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations may not be shown or described in detail.

[0059] While operations may be depicted in the drawings in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring that such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that all illustrated operations be performed, to achieve desirable results.

Claims

1. A comforter comprising:two or more separable portions configured to be detachably connected to form a unitary comforter; andat least one opening formed in at least one of the separable portions,wherein the at least one opening extends through the at least one separable portion,wherein the at least one opening is positioned adjacent an outer edge of the separable portion and spaced inward from the outer edge such that material is present between the opening and the outer edge, andwherein the opening is configured to receive a hanger element to support the separable portion.

2. The comforter of claim 1 wherein the at least one opening is a slit comprising opposing slit edges defining an opening therebetween.

3. The comforter of claim 2, wherein one of the slit edges extends over the opposing slit edge such that the opening is concealed when not in use.

4. The comforter of claim 1 further comprising a covering layer positioned over the opening and configured to be moved to expose the opening.

5. The comforter of claim 1 wherein the opening is reinforced to resist tearing.

6. The comforter of claim 1, wherein the separable portions include an inner portion and an outer portion, and wherein the outer portion at least partially surrounds the inner portion and is detachably connected to the inner portion.

7. The comforter of claim 6, wherein the outer portion completely encircles the inner portion.

8. The comforter of claim 1, wherein each of the separable portions includes at least one opening.

9. The comforter of claim 6, wherein each of the separable portions includes at least one opening.

10. A method of storing a comforter comprises detaching the separable portions of the comforter and then hanging each portion on a hanger for storage using one or more openings through the portion.

11. A method of drying the comforter of claim 1, comprising:separating the comforter into the two or more separable portions;inserting a hanger element into the opening formed in at least one of the separable portions; andsuspending the at least one separable portion from the hanger element via the opening to dry the at least one separable portion.

12. A method of storing the comforter of claim 1, comprising:separating the comforter into the two or more separable portions;inserting a hanger element into the opening formed in at least one of the separable portions; andsuspending the at least one separable portion from the hanger element via the opening to store the at least one separable portion.

13. A system comprising:a comforter including:two or more separable portions configured to be detachably connected to form a unitary comforter; andat least one opening formed in at least one of the separable portions,wherein the at least one opening extends through the at least one separable portion,wherein the at least one opening is positioned adjacent an outer edge of the separable portion and spaced inward from the outer edge such that material is present between the opening and the outer edge; anda hanger element configured to be received within the at least one opening to hang the separable portion.

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