Bedding retention assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Fitted sheets fail to maintain their position over a mattress throughout the night due to movement, leading to inadequate coverage.

Innovation Solution

A bedding retention assembly with a base and bosses that redirect lines to secure the bedding periphery, utilizing attachment devices to keep the bedding in place by distributing the tightening force effectively.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If fitted sheets are used to cover the mattress, then the bedding coverage is maintained initially, but the bedding position is not maintained throughout the night due to movement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebedding position maintenanceVSAvoidduration of bedding coverage
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The bedding retention assembly divides the retention function into multiple independent attachment devices distributed around the periphery of the bedding, each securing a specific section. This segmentation allows each attachment point to independently maintain tension and position, preventing the bedding from shifting during movement throughout the night.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention transitions from a two-dimensional sheet covering the mattress surface to a three-dimensional retention system with attachment devices positioned in the space between the bedding and mattress, extending outward to engage the bedding periphery. This adds a vertical dimension of retention that mechanically anchors the bedding in place.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If multiple attachment devices are used to secure the bedding periphery, then the bedding position is maintained, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebedding position maintenanceVSAvoidnumber of attachment devices
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The base serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the attachment devices, positions the retention assembly at the correct location between the mattress and box spring, and distributes the forces from multiple attachment points. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The retention assembly merges the base structure with multiple attachment devices into a single integrated unit that can be installed as one component between the mattress and box spring. This consolidation simplifies installation and reduces the number of separate parts to manage, despite providing multiple attachment points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The assembly effectively retains the bedding in position by minimizing the number of tightening points, ensuring the bedding remains securely positioned between the mattress and box spring.

Implementation Method 1

Each of a plurality of lines is partially redirected by said at least one boss

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectForce redirection: Pulley

Data Source

PatentUS11096501B2Bedding retention assembly
Publication Date: 2021.08.24 KUJAWA DANIEL
  • US11096501B2 patent drawing
  • US11096501B2 patent drawing
  • US11096501B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A bedding retention assembly retains a fitted sheet over a mattress. The bedding retention assembly includes at least one base disposed adjacent the mattress. The base is flat in one embodiment and has a flange extending perpendicularly thereto in a second embodiment. At least one boss extends out from the at least one base. Each of a plurality of lines is partially redirected by the at least one boss. Each of the plurality of lines includes an attachment portion and a tightening portion. A plurality of attachment devices is fixedly secured to each of the attachment portions for attaching a portion of the bedding periphery to the bedding retention assembly.