CA2117205C - Border stabilizing member and method for making mattresses, cushions and the like using the same - Google Patents
Border stabilizing member and method for making mattresses, cushions and the like using the sameInfo
- Publication number
- CA2117205C CA2117205C CA 2117205 CA2117205A CA2117205C CA 2117205 C CA2117205 C CA 2117205C CA 2117205 CA2117205 CA 2117205 CA 2117205 A CA2117205 A CA 2117205A CA 2117205 C CA2117205 C CA 2117205C
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- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- springs
- shape
- row
- innerspring
- major axis
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
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Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C27/00—Spring, stuffed or fluid mattresses or cushions specially adapted for chairs, beds or sofas
- A47C27/04—Spring, stuffed or fluid mattresses or cushions specially adapted for chairs, beds or sofas with spring inlays
- A47C27/06—Spring inlays
- A47C27/066—Edge stiffeners
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- Mattresses And Other Support Structures For Chairs And Beds (AREA)
- Springs (AREA)
Abstract
An elongate member of resilient material for use in the innerspring of a mattress, cushion or the like, is inserted between adjacent springs rows with its major cross-sectional axis extending perpendicular to the support surface. The cross-section of the resilient member is such that it increases from a minimum at or near the ends of a major axis to a minimum along a minor axis. The method of making the resilient member further contemplates matching the combination of cross-section and type of resilient material to the spring rate of the springs between which the member extends.
When placed as a beam between springs defining the innerspring perimeter and interior springs adjacent thereto, this arrangement results in an assembly with a border of greater firmness, without a significantly harsh transition between compression of the border area and the innerspring interior area.
When placed as a beam between springs defining the innerspring perimeter and interior springs adjacent thereto, this arrangement results in an assembly with a border of greater firmness, without a significantly harsh transition between compression of the border area and the innerspring interior area.
Description
,A`Zl:1~7205~
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to stabilizers and reinforcers for innersprings, such as spring mattresses, cushions and the like, and a method of S making innerspring assemblies using the same.
BACKGROUND O~ THE INVENTION
Innerspring assemblies for mattresses or cushions are generally composed of a plurality of spring coils arranged side-by-side in parallel rows.
with parallel columns also formed orthogonal to the rows. Border wires usually encircle both the upper and lower perimeters of the support surface formed by the innerspring, such as in a mattress, and cormect to terminal ~, A2 1 1 7205 - ~ 2~ :.
-- .
convoludons of the perimetrical springs by way of small diameter helical springs which wrap around the border wire.
The terrninal convolutions of the coil springs are typically formed with an enlarged diameter compared to the spirals or turns, that are a~ally S inwa~d from the Goil ends. This allows for interengagemer~t of the sprin$
terrninal ends, as along rows and/or colurn~is, and stabilizes the spring under compression. It is a cormnon practice to overlap the terrninal convolutions of adjacent spring coils in a row, and then wind even smaller diameter helical spring coils, referred to as cross-helicals, across the rows toencircle the overlapped terminal convolution portions.
With respect to innerspring edges, i.e., the sides of the ur~it7 there are some general considerations of m~n~lf~cture and cornfort that underlie their design. In the normal use of an irmerspring, the edges are subjected to greater compression forces than the interior of the innerspring, since people sit on the edge of the innerspring when sitting or rising. The added stresses and strains on the sides can result in greater wear that is manifested in a tipping or side-sway about the border thereof. This type of wear may reduce the cornfort of the item, and can result in unevenness of the side. The innerspring can further give the impression of a degree of softness it does not have, since a person sitting on the edge provides a much more concentrated load on the underlying springs than a prone individual Iying upon the innerspring.
It has thus been found desirable to reinforce and provide greater stability to the edges of an innerspring assembly. For inctance some, as in U.S
~21 17205 - - . . . .- - ............ - ................. . . - . - . : : -.
Patent 3,262,135, have provided a resilient foam material border mem~er perimetrically surrounding the innerspring that freely and independently supports loads apart from the innerspring. Others, as in U.S. Patent 2,826,769, have devised a structure and method of adding resilient foam material about S the perirnetrical innerspring edge aDd affixed to the border strip rnater~aL
Compression of this structure may create slack in the border allowing such edge arrangements to potentially disengage from respective coils, thereby reducing the effective advantages of the original structure.
Other efforts have also been directed, as shown in U.S. Patent 3,618,146, to a border stabilizer formed from a plurality of foam strips positioned along the perimetrical row of spring coils of an innerspring. Each strip is slit to fit over one or more convolutions of the outermost coils.
Another similar design depicted in U.S. Patent 3,822,426, has a combined mattress topper pad and border stabilizer with one or more slits provided in 15 the stabilizer portion to fit the generally rect~n~ r cross-sectioned stabilizer onto the springs.
A method of stabilizing and reinforcing a spring border is also shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,133,116, wherein a continuous length of resilient foarn rope is wedged between convolutions of adjacent springs a plurality of turns about the perimeter of the coil spring assembly.
- ~,A211 7205 .
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION : -It is a principal objective of the present invention to provide animproved stabilizing member of resilient material for an innerspring assembly, and method of m~kin~ an innerspring using this member, wherein the S stabilizing- meInber caIl be place~; internally in the innerspnng; i.e., it ~ not restricted to placement along the outboard edge of the unit, and is configured to be easily inserted between adjacent rows of spring coils. It is a further objective to provide such a stabilizing member with a unique cross-sectional shape which allows some control over the firmness and spring characteristics of the member.
To these and other ends, the present invention comprises an innerspring assembly of a plurality of springs defining a support surface with at least a first row of spring elements, and a second row of springs spaced inboard thereto and generally parallel to the first row of springs. A gap is formed between the first and second spring rows. The springs m~kin~ up the support surface are retained in position by conventional means, as by cross-helical interconnection.
At least one elongated stabilizing member of resilient material.
having a longitudinal axis and a cross-section with major and minor axes, is located between the first and second spring rows in the gap therebetween, as by sliding the resilient member along its longitudinal axis into the gap. The major axis of the resilient member extends substantially perpendicular to the support surface.
- ~`A21~ 7205 C
In a preferred embodiment~ an irmerspring assembly for alshions, mattresses and the like, may readily be stabilized simply and efficiently by providing an elongated resilient foamaceous member having a rhomboid-shaped cross-section with the aforementioned major and minor axes. The springs are orga-~ zed into orthogonal rows. The resilient member, pr~vided in four or more separate pieces for a mattress innerspring, for example, is inserted between the outermost (or perimetrical) row of springs and the next adjacent inboard row, with the major axis of the member extending perpendicular to the support surface. The border of a mattress, for example, is thereby stabilized without modification to a typical innerspring assembly, and without any slits or other means required in the foam member to affLx the member in the irmerspring.
The resulting construction improves the compression resistance about the perimeter of the spring unit, and reduces sa~ing There is also no 15 interference with the edge appearance of the unit because the member is located interior of the perimetrical coils.
Additionally, the border stabilizing member spring rate may be matched with, or otherwise related to, that of the surrounding springs to reduce any noticeable transition variations between compression of the border 20 area and then the interior area of the innerspring, or to otherwise modify the edge firmness. The border stabilizing member firmness can also be varied by selecting the compression characteristics of the foamed material itself; by altering the internal geometry of the member, or some combination of the t~-~o.
~,~21 1 7205 6~
In a disclosed embodiment, the major axis of the rhombus-shaped cross-section is nearly three times that of the minor axis, yielding a thin-width but tall cross-section. This shape has been found to yield a variable rate of firrnness. The shape also facilitates insertion of the resilient members - - 5: betwee~ spring IOWS. - - -In another disclosed embodiment, the border stabilizing member utilizes the sarne general rhombus-shaped cross-section, but flares the ends of the cross-section outwardly, yielding a trapezoidal top and bottom shape which is superposed on the overall rhombus-shaped cross-section. This rhombus-with 10 trapezoid-end configuration has been found particularly advantageous in innersprings where the spring spacing is close, leaving a more confined space between rows. Since the width of the stabilizing member becomes reduced to fit within the confined space available, the superposed trapezoid end shape has been found to satisfactorily modify the overall rhombus cross-section to 15 support expected loads while also still roughly matching the spring characteristics of the adjacent spring coils.
The foregoing features and advantages of this invention will be further understood upon consideration of the following detailed description of presently preferred embodiments of the invention taken in conjunction with 20 the accompanying drawings, in which:
7 . V A 2 1 1 7~05 BRIEF DESCRI~IION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a plan view of a mattress innerspring made in accordance with the teachings of this invention;
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along li~e 2--2 of FIG. l;
- . S .. .. : FIG. 3 ls a cross-secti~nal view throug}l a member similar to ~hat of FIG. 2 of another embodirnent;
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view sirnilar to that of FIG. 3 of yet another embodiment;
FIG. S is a cross-sectional view sirnilar to that of the stabilizing member shown in FIG. 2 but of another embodiment made in accordance with the teachings of this invention; and FIG. 6 is a graph showing testing of embodiments sirnilar in cross-section to what is shown in FIGS. 2 and 5.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PRESEN~LY
PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is hereafter described in its application in an innerspring assembly for a mattress. It will of course be understood that, while it is described in this particular environment, the border stabilizing member and method of making an innerspring using the same is considered to 20 have utility in other products utilizing an innerspring assembly, such as seats and cushions.
Referring to the drawings, in FIG. 1 mattress 10 has an innerspring unit or assembly 12 comprised of perimetrical springs 14, adjacen ~A21 172(~5 .. - - . . - . . . ~
springs 16, and interior sprirlgs 18 arranged in a rect~n~ r pattern of parallel rows and orthogonal colurnns (hereafter, both being referred to as "rows"
regardless of the direction they run). Although only a portion of the figure is broken out to expose the innerspring assembly, it is to be understood that 5 - these r~ws extend açross ~he length and ~idth of innerspring assembly 12.
- Border wires 28 extend around the perimeter of innerspring assembly 12 on the top and bottom surfaces. Border wire helical spring 20 attaches the terminal convolutions of perimetrical springs 14 to border wire 18.
Cross-helical springs 22, extending across the innerspring assembly 12, attach to 10 terrninal ends of adjacent adjoining perimetrical springs 14, adjacent springs 16 and/or interior springs 18, as is readily noted in FIG. 1. The cross-helicals 22 could also extend lengthwise, if so desired.
Referring to FIG. 2, all of the springs 14, 16, 18 are identical.
The springs have larger diameter convolutions at the terminal ends thereof, 15 and smaller diameter convolutions or turns, in between. A gap is thereby provided between joined springs; a gap is as well provided between rows of adjacent springs which do not have their terminal convolutions so joined.
Located within the gap between coils 14 and 16 is resilient stabilizing beam member 40. The member 40 is elongated, with a generally 20 rhomboid-shaped or diamond-shaped exterior, having a longitudinal axis and a cross-section with a major axis and a minor axis. In this embodiment of FIG.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to stabilizers and reinforcers for innersprings, such as spring mattresses, cushions and the like, and a method of S making innerspring assemblies using the same.
BACKGROUND O~ THE INVENTION
Innerspring assemblies for mattresses or cushions are generally composed of a plurality of spring coils arranged side-by-side in parallel rows.
with parallel columns also formed orthogonal to the rows. Border wires usually encircle both the upper and lower perimeters of the support surface formed by the innerspring, such as in a mattress, and cormect to terminal ~, A2 1 1 7205 - ~ 2~ :.
-- .
convoludons of the perimetrical springs by way of small diameter helical springs which wrap around the border wire.
The terrninal convolutions of the coil springs are typically formed with an enlarged diameter compared to the spirals or turns, that are a~ally S inwa~d from the Goil ends. This allows for interengagemer~t of the sprin$
terrninal ends, as along rows and/or colurn~is, and stabilizes the spring under compression. It is a cormnon practice to overlap the terrninal convolutions of adjacent spring coils in a row, and then wind even smaller diameter helical spring coils, referred to as cross-helicals, across the rows toencircle the overlapped terminal convolution portions.
With respect to innerspring edges, i.e., the sides of the ur~it7 there are some general considerations of m~n~lf~cture and cornfort that underlie their design. In the normal use of an irmerspring, the edges are subjected to greater compression forces than the interior of the innerspring, since people sit on the edge of the innerspring when sitting or rising. The added stresses and strains on the sides can result in greater wear that is manifested in a tipping or side-sway about the border thereof. This type of wear may reduce the cornfort of the item, and can result in unevenness of the side. The innerspring can further give the impression of a degree of softness it does not have, since a person sitting on the edge provides a much more concentrated load on the underlying springs than a prone individual Iying upon the innerspring.
It has thus been found desirable to reinforce and provide greater stability to the edges of an innerspring assembly. For inctance some, as in U.S
~21 17205 - - . . . .- - ............ - ................. . . - . - . : : -.
Patent 3,262,135, have provided a resilient foam material border mem~er perimetrically surrounding the innerspring that freely and independently supports loads apart from the innerspring. Others, as in U.S. Patent 2,826,769, have devised a structure and method of adding resilient foam material about S the perirnetrical innerspring edge aDd affixed to the border strip rnater~aL
Compression of this structure may create slack in the border allowing such edge arrangements to potentially disengage from respective coils, thereby reducing the effective advantages of the original structure.
Other efforts have also been directed, as shown in U.S. Patent 3,618,146, to a border stabilizer formed from a plurality of foam strips positioned along the perimetrical row of spring coils of an innerspring. Each strip is slit to fit over one or more convolutions of the outermost coils.
Another similar design depicted in U.S. Patent 3,822,426, has a combined mattress topper pad and border stabilizer with one or more slits provided in 15 the stabilizer portion to fit the generally rect~n~ r cross-sectioned stabilizer onto the springs.
A method of stabilizing and reinforcing a spring border is also shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,133,116, wherein a continuous length of resilient foarn rope is wedged between convolutions of adjacent springs a plurality of turns about the perimeter of the coil spring assembly.
- ~,A211 7205 .
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION : -It is a principal objective of the present invention to provide animproved stabilizing member of resilient material for an innerspring assembly, and method of m~kin~ an innerspring using this member, wherein the S stabilizing- meInber caIl be place~; internally in the innerspnng; i.e., it ~ not restricted to placement along the outboard edge of the unit, and is configured to be easily inserted between adjacent rows of spring coils. It is a further objective to provide such a stabilizing member with a unique cross-sectional shape which allows some control over the firmness and spring characteristics of the member.
To these and other ends, the present invention comprises an innerspring assembly of a plurality of springs defining a support surface with at least a first row of spring elements, and a second row of springs spaced inboard thereto and generally parallel to the first row of springs. A gap is formed between the first and second spring rows. The springs m~kin~ up the support surface are retained in position by conventional means, as by cross-helical interconnection.
At least one elongated stabilizing member of resilient material.
having a longitudinal axis and a cross-section with major and minor axes, is located between the first and second spring rows in the gap therebetween, as by sliding the resilient member along its longitudinal axis into the gap. The major axis of the resilient member extends substantially perpendicular to the support surface.
- ~`A21~ 7205 C
In a preferred embodiment~ an irmerspring assembly for alshions, mattresses and the like, may readily be stabilized simply and efficiently by providing an elongated resilient foamaceous member having a rhomboid-shaped cross-section with the aforementioned major and minor axes. The springs are orga-~ zed into orthogonal rows. The resilient member, pr~vided in four or more separate pieces for a mattress innerspring, for example, is inserted between the outermost (or perimetrical) row of springs and the next adjacent inboard row, with the major axis of the member extending perpendicular to the support surface. The border of a mattress, for example, is thereby stabilized without modification to a typical innerspring assembly, and without any slits or other means required in the foam member to affLx the member in the irmerspring.
The resulting construction improves the compression resistance about the perimeter of the spring unit, and reduces sa~ing There is also no 15 interference with the edge appearance of the unit because the member is located interior of the perimetrical coils.
Additionally, the border stabilizing member spring rate may be matched with, or otherwise related to, that of the surrounding springs to reduce any noticeable transition variations between compression of the border 20 area and then the interior area of the innerspring, or to otherwise modify the edge firmness. The border stabilizing member firmness can also be varied by selecting the compression characteristics of the foamed material itself; by altering the internal geometry of the member, or some combination of the t~-~o.
~,~21 1 7205 6~
In a disclosed embodiment, the major axis of the rhombus-shaped cross-section is nearly three times that of the minor axis, yielding a thin-width but tall cross-section. This shape has been found to yield a variable rate of firrnness. The shape also facilitates insertion of the resilient members - - 5: betwee~ spring IOWS. - - -In another disclosed embodiment, the border stabilizing member utilizes the sarne general rhombus-shaped cross-section, but flares the ends of the cross-section outwardly, yielding a trapezoidal top and bottom shape which is superposed on the overall rhombus-shaped cross-section. This rhombus-with 10 trapezoid-end configuration has been found particularly advantageous in innersprings where the spring spacing is close, leaving a more confined space between rows. Since the width of the stabilizing member becomes reduced to fit within the confined space available, the superposed trapezoid end shape has been found to satisfactorily modify the overall rhombus cross-section to 15 support expected loads while also still roughly matching the spring characteristics of the adjacent spring coils.
The foregoing features and advantages of this invention will be further understood upon consideration of the following detailed description of presently preferred embodiments of the invention taken in conjunction with 20 the accompanying drawings, in which:
7 . V A 2 1 1 7~05 BRIEF DESCRI~IION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a plan view of a mattress innerspring made in accordance with the teachings of this invention;
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along li~e 2--2 of FIG. l;
- . S .. .. : FIG. 3 ls a cross-secti~nal view throug}l a member similar to ~hat of FIG. 2 of another embodirnent;
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view sirnilar to that of FIG. 3 of yet another embodiment;
FIG. S is a cross-sectional view sirnilar to that of the stabilizing member shown in FIG. 2 but of another embodiment made in accordance with the teachings of this invention; and FIG. 6 is a graph showing testing of embodiments sirnilar in cross-section to what is shown in FIGS. 2 and 5.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PRESEN~LY
PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is hereafter described in its application in an innerspring assembly for a mattress. It will of course be understood that, while it is described in this particular environment, the border stabilizing member and method of making an innerspring using the same is considered to 20 have utility in other products utilizing an innerspring assembly, such as seats and cushions.
Referring to the drawings, in FIG. 1 mattress 10 has an innerspring unit or assembly 12 comprised of perimetrical springs 14, adjacen ~A21 172(~5 .. - - . . - . . . ~
springs 16, and interior sprirlgs 18 arranged in a rect~n~ r pattern of parallel rows and orthogonal colurnns (hereafter, both being referred to as "rows"
regardless of the direction they run). Although only a portion of the figure is broken out to expose the innerspring assembly, it is to be understood that 5 - these r~ws extend açross ~he length and ~idth of innerspring assembly 12.
- Border wires 28 extend around the perimeter of innerspring assembly 12 on the top and bottom surfaces. Border wire helical spring 20 attaches the terminal convolutions of perimetrical springs 14 to border wire 18.
Cross-helical springs 22, extending across the innerspring assembly 12, attach to 10 terrninal ends of adjacent adjoining perimetrical springs 14, adjacent springs 16 and/or interior springs 18, as is readily noted in FIG. 1. The cross-helicals 22 could also extend lengthwise, if so desired.
Referring to FIG. 2, all of the springs 14, 16, 18 are identical.
The springs have larger diameter convolutions at the terminal ends thereof, 15 and smaller diameter convolutions or turns, in between. A gap is thereby provided between joined springs; a gap is as well provided between rows of adjacent springs which do not have their terminal convolutions so joined.
Located within the gap between coils 14 and 16 is resilient stabilizing beam member 40. The member 40 is elongated, with a generally 20 rhomboid-shaped or diamond-shaped exterior, having a longitudinal axis and a cross-section with a major axis and a minor axis. In this embodiment of FIG.
2, member 40 is substantially solid and composed of a generally uniform resilient foamed material. The major axis "A" of member 40 is oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axes of the surrounding coils 14 and 16 i.e., perpendicular to the support surface, and the minor axis "a" extends generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of the springs. The exterior of member 40 is dimensioned to preferably contact the spring sides in its uncompressed state. Although the ends of the member along major axis A may terminate at a point, it is preferable to truncate the ends with parallel planar sides 42,44. In this embodiment, the cross-sectional shape comprises two trapezoids and has symmetry about the minor axis. The height (major axis A) of the resilient member 40 is slightly less than the height of the springs.
Member 40 may readily be placed in the previously described orientation within the bare innerspring 12 (i.e., prior to build-up or upholstery) in the following manner. A
resilient foam member 40 is generally in one piece. A
plurality of such pieces, or segments, may be employed together. For a mattress innerspring, such segments would be inserted first at one end of the unit, then along the sides, then along the opposite end, in the long gaps defined between the rows of springs 14 and 16. 33 inch and 24 inch long segments have been found advantageous. For example, along the side of a full-size mattress a first 33 inch segment of the resilient foam member 40 is inserted along a path parallel to a side of innerspring 12 between perimetrical coils 14 and adjacent coils 16 for its full length. Another 33 inch segment is then abutted to the first segment, and inserted advancing the previously inserted piece along the gap. The two segments thereby extend along substantially the entire lateral side of the innerspring 12. The other side and ends of the unit are reinforced in the same manner (although a single 33 inch ,~.
, A Z 1 1 7 2 0 5 --- segment may be sufficient for some ends). Upon completion of the i~erting operation, the unit may be finished with ticking, padding and covering material, generally indicated as 11 in FIG. 1.
It can be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art that the - : . r S ~rmness- ~har.acteristicc, of the border cleated by this assem~ly can be varied by the colllpl~s~.ion characteristics of the resilient foam materiai, and the in~ernal geometry of the beam member. For example, a rhomboid-shaped hollow interior 50, 50' centered on the member's centroid, as in FIG. 3 and 4, may be utilized to create borders of lesser firmness. By varying the density and rigidity of the foam, the degree to which the foam resists compression can also be adjusted as desired. For purposes of the present invention, any durable elastically compressible foam, such as polyurethane foam, polyethylene foarn, foam rubber, or latex foam, with a suitable density characteristic may be employed, and it is advantageous that this material have a tensile strength which resists tearing. A high density polyethylene foam with a density of approximately 2.0 lbs./cu. ft. rninimum has been found useful in the FIG. 2 embodiment. Moreover, it can also be readily appreciated that an interior hollow (50, 50') within the member may be filled with a resilient material of â
density greater or lesser than the material comprising the exterior of the bean~L
thereby creating a member with dual density properties.
It can also be readily appreciated that the spring rate of the member 40 may be altered by changing the exterior geometry thereof. For example, while it has been deterrnined that a rhomboid-shaped exterior with ~,A21 1 7205 truncated major axis ends is preferred in "m~tçhin~" spring rates with eYi~tin~ -innerspring coils, other but similar shapes may be useful. The preferred configuration has the additional benefit of firming substantially the full lengths of surrounding coils, because prior border stabilizers generally firmed the - S interil~r of perimetrical coils, thus- requiring compression of at l~st a full corlvolution before re~ in~ a firming effect from the stabilizer.
By way of specific example, member 40 composed of high density polyethylene foam of approximately 2.0 Ibs./cu. ft. minimum density has a major axis "A" dimension termin~tin~ at truncated points 42, 44 of 4-3/4 in.
and minor axis "a" dimension of 1-5/8 in. The truncated portions 42, 44 have a width of 1/2 in. The cross-sectional area is approximately 5.05 sq. in. The member 40 is thus tall and thin, having a minor axis about 1/3 of the major axis, in keeping with the thin-width of the spring gaps within which it is to beinserted, and the desirable firrnness to be achieved.
The FIG. 3 embodiment, member 40', has a rhomboid-shaped hollow interior 50, and a major axis A dimension of 4-3/4 in., and a minor axis a dimension of 1-5/8 in. The truncated portions have a length of 1/2 in.
Rhomboid-shaped hollow interior 50, centered on the centroid of member 40.
has a dimension along major axis A of 2-1/2 in. and a dimension along mino.
axis a of 5/8 in. This resulting cross-sectional area is approximately 4.29 sq. in.
The FIG. 4 embodiment, member 40", also has a rhomboid-shaped hollow interior 50', with major and minor axes as in the FIG. ~
embodiment. Rhomboid-shaped hollow interior 50, centered on the centroid ~A21 1 72~5 of member 40", has a dimension of 1-7/16 in. along the major axis and a dimension of 5/16 in. along the minor axis, resulting in a cross-sectional area of approximately 4.8 sq. in.
As to the method of placement of member 40 within innerspring - . S - 1~, it cPn be readily appre~ te~ a meTnb.er 40 rnay be run- other tha between perimetrical coils 14 and coils 16 of innerspring 12. The member 40 may be placed only along certain sides, if so desired, or even further interior tO
the innerspring. Multiple segments may be placed between rows of coils, as described, but further could be of differing firmness characteristics 10 corresponding to the use that the affected row sector may have. The segmen.s may be cut normal to the length of the beam, or cut supplementary or complementary.
FIG. 5 shows yet another embodiment which has been modified for particular application in an innerspring having fairly close spacing between 15 adjacent spring rows. This results in a relatively confined space within which the stabilizing member is to be fit. The available width of the stabilizing member--minor axis a--is thereby reduced.
The rhombus shape for the cross-section of the stabilizing member, which has been found to be most desirable and advantageous, is 20 maintained in the embodiment of FIG. 5, as highlighted by the phantom dashed lines on member 40"'. Member 40"' has further been provided with ends (in cross-section) which have a trapezoidal shape superposed upon the type of cross-section of the FIG. 2 embodiment. The trapezoidal shape, 2 t 1 7205 outlined in dotted line in FIG.5, has the greater of its parallel sides located at the top and bottom sides 42',44' of the member 40'''. In effect, the planar sides 42',44' are widened by flaring the end configuration of the rhombus-shape outwardly. The resultant cross-section is therefore somewhat hourglass shaped above and below the minor axis a, i.e., two stacked hourglasses. In other words, as one moves along the major axis A in either direction from the minor axis a, the cross-section of this embodiment first gradually decreases in width (measured orthogonal to the major axis) and then gradually increases in width toward the top and bottom of the member. In this embodiment, the cross-sectional shape comprises four trapezoids and has symmetry about the minor axis.
Two factors which principally influenced this modified cross-section for member 40''' were the thinness of the width of the resulting stabilizing member and the intention to match the load deflection characteristics of the spring coils of the particular innerspring. As mentioned above, a concept involved in the present invention is to have an edge firming device which "mimics" the load deflection characteristics of the innerspring to which it is to be applied.
The widened top and bottom sides 42',44' form better surfaces to support the anticipated loads, thus accommodating the thinner width (minor axis a) for the embodiment of FIG.5.
It was also determined that this cross-section shape for stabilizing member 40''' more closely matched the deflection characteristics of the innerspring in which this embodiment was to be applied.
,~
~,~, - 13a - 21 1 7205 The graph of FIG.6 shows plots of deflection of various springs as well as stabilizing members made in accordance with the teachings of this invention and of the types 40 and 40'''. The member 40 embodiment was tested in conjunction with a so-called "368" innerspring having spring coils of 12 3/4 gauge with knotted terminal convolutions of a triple-offset type. Testing was accomplished by making a bun (i.e., a small sample innerspring) and ~A2t 1 7205 - - - - - -14- ; ~
.
placing an 8 in. diarneter platen on the top surface of the bun, roughly centered thereon. Weight was progressively added to the platen up to about 50 lbs., and deflection of the springs progressively measured. One bun was of the innerspring including the member 40 embodirnent (indicated as "40 - - S Embodiment" on the graph), a~ he o~her blm was without :the stab~li~g -member (indicated as "368"). As can be seen from FIG. 6, the type 40 member fairly tracked the deflection characteristics of the "368" innerspring into which it was applied.
The type 40"' member also was tested in a sirnilar fashion in conjunction with a so-called "640" innerspring having spring coils of 14 1/2 gauge with open-offset terminal convolutions, and also a "640+" innerspring having 14 gauge coils. The modified shape of the member 40"' embodiment (indicated on the graph as "40"' Embodiment") tracks the load deflection characteristics of these innersprings, as shown.
Thus, while the invention has been described with reference to a particular embodiment, further applications and modifications of the invention will be apparent to others. The foregoing description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings, yet still fall within the scope of theclaims hereafter. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defi-ned b~
the following clainls, including all e4uivalents.
Member 40 may readily be placed in the previously described orientation within the bare innerspring 12 (i.e., prior to build-up or upholstery) in the following manner. A
resilient foam member 40 is generally in one piece. A
plurality of such pieces, or segments, may be employed together. For a mattress innerspring, such segments would be inserted first at one end of the unit, then along the sides, then along the opposite end, in the long gaps defined between the rows of springs 14 and 16. 33 inch and 24 inch long segments have been found advantageous. For example, along the side of a full-size mattress a first 33 inch segment of the resilient foam member 40 is inserted along a path parallel to a side of innerspring 12 between perimetrical coils 14 and adjacent coils 16 for its full length. Another 33 inch segment is then abutted to the first segment, and inserted advancing the previously inserted piece along the gap. The two segments thereby extend along substantially the entire lateral side of the innerspring 12. The other side and ends of the unit are reinforced in the same manner (although a single 33 inch ,~.
, A Z 1 1 7 2 0 5 --- segment may be sufficient for some ends). Upon completion of the i~erting operation, the unit may be finished with ticking, padding and covering material, generally indicated as 11 in FIG. 1.
It can be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art that the - : . r S ~rmness- ~har.acteristicc, of the border cleated by this assem~ly can be varied by the colllpl~s~.ion characteristics of the resilient foam materiai, and the in~ernal geometry of the beam member. For example, a rhomboid-shaped hollow interior 50, 50' centered on the member's centroid, as in FIG. 3 and 4, may be utilized to create borders of lesser firmness. By varying the density and rigidity of the foam, the degree to which the foam resists compression can also be adjusted as desired. For purposes of the present invention, any durable elastically compressible foam, such as polyurethane foam, polyethylene foarn, foam rubber, or latex foam, with a suitable density characteristic may be employed, and it is advantageous that this material have a tensile strength which resists tearing. A high density polyethylene foam with a density of approximately 2.0 lbs./cu. ft. rninimum has been found useful in the FIG. 2 embodiment. Moreover, it can also be readily appreciated that an interior hollow (50, 50') within the member may be filled with a resilient material of â
density greater or lesser than the material comprising the exterior of the bean~L
thereby creating a member with dual density properties.
It can also be readily appreciated that the spring rate of the member 40 may be altered by changing the exterior geometry thereof. For example, while it has been deterrnined that a rhomboid-shaped exterior with ~,A21 1 7205 truncated major axis ends is preferred in "m~tçhin~" spring rates with eYi~tin~ -innerspring coils, other but similar shapes may be useful. The preferred configuration has the additional benefit of firming substantially the full lengths of surrounding coils, because prior border stabilizers generally firmed the - S interil~r of perimetrical coils, thus- requiring compression of at l~st a full corlvolution before re~ in~ a firming effect from the stabilizer.
By way of specific example, member 40 composed of high density polyethylene foam of approximately 2.0 Ibs./cu. ft. minimum density has a major axis "A" dimension termin~tin~ at truncated points 42, 44 of 4-3/4 in.
and minor axis "a" dimension of 1-5/8 in. The truncated portions 42, 44 have a width of 1/2 in. The cross-sectional area is approximately 5.05 sq. in. The member 40 is thus tall and thin, having a minor axis about 1/3 of the major axis, in keeping with the thin-width of the spring gaps within which it is to beinserted, and the desirable firrnness to be achieved.
The FIG. 3 embodiment, member 40', has a rhomboid-shaped hollow interior 50, and a major axis A dimension of 4-3/4 in., and a minor axis a dimension of 1-5/8 in. The truncated portions have a length of 1/2 in.
Rhomboid-shaped hollow interior 50, centered on the centroid of member 40.
has a dimension along major axis A of 2-1/2 in. and a dimension along mino.
axis a of 5/8 in. This resulting cross-sectional area is approximately 4.29 sq. in.
The FIG. 4 embodiment, member 40", also has a rhomboid-shaped hollow interior 50', with major and minor axes as in the FIG. ~
embodiment. Rhomboid-shaped hollow interior 50, centered on the centroid ~A21 1 72~5 of member 40", has a dimension of 1-7/16 in. along the major axis and a dimension of 5/16 in. along the minor axis, resulting in a cross-sectional area of approximately 4.8 sq. in.
As to the method of placement of member 40 within innerspring - . S - 1~, it cPn be readily appre~ te~ a meTnb.er 40 rnay be run- other tha between perimetrical coils 14 and coils 16 of innerspring 12. The member 40 may be placed only along certain sides, if so desired, or even further interior tO
the innerspring. Multiple segments may be placed between rows of coils, as described, but further could be of differing firmness characteristics 10 corresponding to the use that the affected row sector may have. The segmen.s may be cut normal to the length of the beam, or cut supplementary or complementary.
FIG. 5 shows yet another embodiment which has been modified for particular application in an innerspring having fairly close spacing between 15 adjacent spring rows. This results in a relatively confined space within which the stabilizing member is to be fit. The available width of the stabilizing member--minor axis a--is thereby reduced.
The rhombus shape for the cross-section of the stabilizing member, which has been found to be most desirable and advantageous, is 20 maintained in the embodiment of FIG. 5, as highlighted by the phantom dashed lines on member 40"'. Member 40"' has further been provided with ends (in cross-section) which have a trapezoidal shape superposed upon the type of cross-section of the FIG. 2 embodiment. The trapezoidal shape, 2 t 1 7205 outlined in dotted line in FIG.5, has the greater of its parallel sides located at the top and bottom sides 42',44' of the member 40'''. In effect, the planar sides 42',44' are widened by flaring the end configuration of the rhombus-shape outwardly. The resultant cross-section is therefore somewhat hourglass shaped above and below the minor axis a, i.e., two stacked hourglasses. In other words, as one moves along the major axis A in either direction from the minor axis a, the cross-section of this embodiment first gradually decreases in width (measured orthogonal to the major axis) and then gradually increases in width toward the top and bottom of the member. In this embodiment, the cross-sectional shape comprises four trapezoids and has symmetry about the minor axis.
Two factors which principally influenced this modified cross-section for member 40''' were the thinness of the width of the resulting stabilizing member and the intention to match the load deflection characteristics of the spring coils of the particular innerspring. As mentioned above, a concept involved in the present invention is to have an edge firming device which "mimics" the load deflection characteristics of the innerspring to which it is to be applied.
The widened top and bottom sides 42',44' form better surfaces to support the anticipated loads, thus accommodating the thinner width (minor axis a) for the embodiment of FIG.5.
It was also determined that this cross-section shape for stabilizing member 40''' more closely matched the deflection characteristics of the innerspring in which this embodiment was to be applied.
,~
~,~, - 13a - 21 1 7205 The graph of FIG.6 shows plots of deflection of various springs as well as stabilizing members made in accordance with the teachings of this invention and of the types 40 and 40'''. The member 40 embodiment was tested in conjunction with a so-called "368" innerspring having spring coils of 12 3/4 gauge with knotted terminal convolutions of a triple-offset type. Testing was accomplished by making a bun (i.e., a small sample innerspring) and ~A2t 1 7205 - - - - - -14- ; ~
.
placing an 8 in. diarneter platen on the top surface of the bun, roughly centered thereon. Weight was progressively added to the platen up to about 50 lbs., and deflection of the springs progressively measured. One bun was of the innerspring including the member 40 embodirnent (indicated as "40 - - S Embodiment" on the graph), a~ he o~her blm was without :the stab~li~g -member (indicated as "368"). As can be seen from FIG. 6, the type 40 member fairly tracked the deflection characteristics of the "368" innerspring into which it was applied.
The type 40"' member also was tested in a sirnilar fashion in conjunction with a so-called "640" innerspring having spring coils of 14 1/2 gauge with open-offset terminal convolutions, and also a "640+" innerspring having 14 gauge coils. The modified shape of the member 40"' embodiment (indicated on the graph as "40"' Embodiment") tracks the load deflection characteristics of these innersprings, as shown.
Thus, while the invention has been described with reference to a particular embodiment, further applications and modifications of the invention will be apparent to others. The foregoing description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings, yet still fall within the scope of theclaims hereafter. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defi-ned b~
the following clainls, including all e4uivalents.
Claims (43)
1. A method for making a stabilizing and reinforcing member for an innerspring assembly for cushions and mattresses, comprising the steps of:
determining the spring rate of a predetermined spring a plurality of which are to be used in an assembly of springs for an innerspring assembly, and forming an elongated member of resilient material for insertion between rows of springs in an assembly of springs, which elongated member has a longitudinal axis extending along its elongate length, with a cross-section for said member which cross-section is orthogonal to said longitudinal axis, and selecting said cross-section and resilient material to in combination yield a spring rate for said stabilizing and reinforcing member which approximates the spring rate of said predetermined spring.
determining the spring rate of a predetermined spring a plurality of which are to be used in an assembly of springs for an innerspring assembly, and forming an elongated member of resilient material for insertion between rows of springs in an assembly of springs, which elongated member has a longitudinal axis extending along its elongate length, with a cross-section for said member which cross-section is orthogonal to said longitudinal axis, and selecting said cross-section and resilient material to in combination yield a spring rate for said stabilizing and reinforcing member which approximates the spring rate of said predetermined spring.
2. An elongated stabilizing and reinforcing beam of resilient material which can be compressed under load and will thereafter return to its original shape upon removal of said load, for use in an innerspring assembly formed of springs, a plurality of such springs each having a longitudinal axis and being organized into rows and columns and formmg a support surface with a top and bottom, with at least a first row of springs and a second row of springs spaced inboard from said first row and generally parallel to said first row, a gap thereby being formed between said first and second rows, and means for retaining said springs in said assembly, said stabilizing member having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongated length, and a symmetric cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis having a major axis and a minor axis, said major axis being of greater length than said minor axis, said cross-section having a perimeter shape where sides of said perimeter define a major rhombus-shape to said cross-section with said major axis as measured along the diagonal between where two diametrically opposed corners would be with the side surfaces of the rhombus-shape being fully extended and said minor axis as measured along another diagonal between where the other two diametrically opposed corners would be with the side surfaces of the rhombus-shape being fully extended to terminate at a point, said perimeter shape to said cross-section being further defined by a minor trapezoid-shape superposed upon each of the ends of said major rhombus-shape on said major axis with the greater of the parallel sides of said trapezoid shape being located at each end, said stabilizing member being located between said first and second rows of springs in said gap with said major axis thereof being aligned substantially parallel to said longitudinal axes of said springs.
3. An elongated stabilizing and reinforcing beam of resilient material which can be compressed under load and will thereafter return to its original shape upon removal of said load, for use in an innerspring assembly formed of springs, a plurality of such springs each having a longitudinal axis and being organized into rows and columns and forming a support surface with a top and bottom, with at least a first row of springs and a second row of springs spaced inboard from said first row and generally parallel to said first row, a gap thereby being formed between said first and second rows, and means for retaining said springs in said assembly, said stabilizing member having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongated length, and a symmetric cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis having a substantially hourglass shape with a major axis to said cross-section extending from top to bottom of said hourglass shape, said stabilizing member being located between said first and second rows of springs in said gap with said major axis thereof being aligned substantially parallel to said longitudinal axes of said springs.
4. An innerspring assembly comprising:
a plurality of springs each having a longitudinal axis and being organized into rows and forming a support surface with a top and bottom, with at least a first row of springs and a second row of springs spaced inboard from said first row and generally parallel to said first row, with a gap thereby being formed between said first and second rows;
means for retaining said springs in said assembly;
and an elongated stabilizing and reinforcing beam of resilient material which can be compressed under load and will thereafter return to its original shape upon removal of said load, said stabilizing member having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongated length, and a generally symmetric cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis having a major axis and a minor axis, said major axis being of greater length than said minor axis, said cross-section having a perimeter shape where sides of said perimeter are at least partially defined by a modified rhombus-shape with said major axis as measured along the diagonal between where two diametrically opposed corners would be with the sides of the rhombus-shape being fully extended to terminate at a point, and said minor axis as measured along another diagonal between where the other two diametrically opposed corners would be with the sides of the rhombus-shape being fully extended to terminate at a point, said perimeter shape to said cross-section being further defined by a trapezoid-shape superposed upon each of the end of said modified rhombus-shape on said major axis with the greater of the parallel sides of said trapezoid shape being coextensive with each of said ends of said modified rhombus-shape, said stabilizing member being located between said first and second rows of springs in said gap with said major axis thereof being aligned substantially parallel to said longitudinal axes of said springs.
a plurality of springs each having a longitudinal axis and being organized into rows and forming a support surface with a top and bottom, with at least a first row of springs and a second row of springs spaced inboard from said first row and generally parallel to said first row, with a gap thereby being formed between said first and second rows;
means for retaining said springs in said assembly;
and an elongated stabilizing and reinforcing beam of resilient material which can be compressed under load and will thereafter return to its original shape upon removal of said load, said stabilizing member having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongated length, and a generally symmetric cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis having a major axis and a minor axis, said major axis being of greater length than said minor axis, said cross-section having a perimeter shape where sides of said perimeter are at least partially defined by a modified rhombus-shape with said major axis as measured along the diagonal between where two diametrically opposed corners would be with the sides of the rhombus-shape being fully extended to terminate at a point, and said minor axis as measured along another diagonal between where the other two diametrically opposed corners would be with the sides of the rhombus-shape being fully extended to terminate at a point, said perimeter shape to said cross-section being further defined by a trapezoid-shape superposed upon each of the end of said modified rhombus-shape on said major axis with the greater of the parallel sides of said trapezoid shape being coextensive with each of said ends of said modified rhombus-shape, said stabilizing member being located between said first and second rows of springs in said gap with said major axis thereof being aligned substantially parallel to said longitudinal axes of said springs.
5. The innerspring assembly of claim 4 wherein said innerspring is rectangular in shape, and said stabilizing member extends in gaps between first and second rows defined along a lateral side of said innerspring assembly.
6. The innerspring assembly of claim 4 wherein said innerspring is rectangular in shape, and said stabilizing member is comprised of a plurality of abutting segments which run parallel to a lateral side of said innerspring.
7. An innerspring assembly comprising:
a plurality of springs each having a longitudinal axis and being organized into rows and columns and forming a support surface with a top and bottom, with at least a first row of springs and a second row of springs spaced inboard from said first row and generally parallel to said first row, with a gap thereby being formed between said first and second rows;
means for retaining said springs in said assembly;
and an elongated stabilizing and reinforcing beam of resilient material which can be compressed under load and will thereafter return to its original shape upon removal of said load, said stabilizing member having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongated length, and a symmetric cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis having a substantially hourglass shape with a major axis to said cross-section extending from top to bottom of said hourglass shape, said stabilizing member being located between said first and second rows of springs in said gap with said major axis thereof being aligned substantially parallel to said longitudinal axes of said springs.
a plurality of springs each having a longitudinal axis and being organized into rows and columns and forming a support surface with a top and bottom, with at least a first row of springs and a second row of springs spaced inboard from said first row and generally parallel to said first row, with a gap thereby being formed between said first and second rows;
means for retaining said springs in said assembly;
and an elongated stabilizing and reinforcing beam of resilient material which can be compressed under load and will thereafter return to its original shape upon removal of said load, said stabilizing member having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongated length, and a symmetric cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis having a substantially hourglass shape with a major axis to said cross-section extending from top to bottom of said hourglass shape, said stabilizing member being located between said first and second rows of springs in said gap with said major axis thereof being aligned substantially parallel to said longitudinal axes of said springs.
8. The innerspring assembly of claim 7 wherein said innerspring is rectangular in shape, and said stabilizing member extends in gaps between first and second rows defined along each of two opposite lateral sides of said innerspring assembly.
9. The innerspring assembly of claim 7 wherein said innerspring is rectangular in shape, and said stabilizing member is comprised of a plurality of abutting segments which run parallel to lateral sides of said innerspring.
10. An elongated stabilizing and reinforcing beam of resilient material which can be compressed under load and will thereafter return to its original shape upon removal of said load, for use in an innerspring assembly formed of springs, a plurality of such springs each having a longitudinal axis and being organized into rows and forming a support surface with a top and bottom, with at least a first row of springs and a second row of springs spaced inboard from said first row and generally parallel to said first row, a gap thereby being formed between said first and second rows, and means for retaining said springs in said assembly, said stabilizing member having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongated length, and a cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis having a major axis and a minor axis, said major axis being of greater length than said minor axis, said cross-section having a perimeter shape where sides of said perimeter are at least partially defined by a modified rhombus-shape having truncated top and bottom ends with said major axis as measured along the diagonal between where two diametrically opposed corners would be with the sides of the rhombus-shape being fully extended, and said minor axis as measured along another diagonal between the other two diametrically opposed corners, said perimeter shape being further defined by a trapezoid-shape superposed upon each end of said modified rhombus-shape on said major axis with the greater of the parallel sides of said trapezoid-shape being coextensive with each of said ends of said modified rhombus-shape, said stabilizing member being located between said first and second rows of springs in said gap with said major axis thereof being aligned substantially parallel to said longitudinal axes of said springs.
11. An elongated stabilizing and reinforcing beam of resilient material which can be compressed under load and will thereafter return to its original shape upon removal of said load, for use in an innerspring assembly formed of springs, a plurality of such springs each having a longitudinal axis and being organized into rows and forming a support surface with a top and bottom, with at least a first row of springs and a second row of springs spaced inboard from said first row and generally parallel to said first row, a gap thereby being formed between said first and second rows, and means for retaining said springs in said assembly, said stabilizing member having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongated length, and a cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis having a major axis to said cross-section extending from top to bottom of said member, and a minor axis orthogonal to said major axis of said member, said cross-section first gradually decreasing in width as measured orthogonal to said major axis progressing along said major axis from said minor axis and then towards the top and bottom gradually increasing in width toward the top and bottom of said member, said stabilizing member being located between said first and second rows of springs in said gap with said major axis thereof being aligned substantially parallel to said longitudinal axes of said springs.
12. An innerspring assembly comprising:
a plurality of springs each having a longitudinal axis and being organized into rows and columns and forming a support surface with a top and bottom, with at least a first row of springs and a second row of springs spaced inboard from said first row and generally parallel to said first row, with a gap thereby being formed between said first and second rows;
means for retaining said springs in said assembly;
and an elongated stabilizing and reinforcing beam of resilient material which can be compressed under load and will thereafter return to its original shape upon removal of said load, said stabilizing member having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongated length, and a cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis having a major axis to said cross-section extending from top to bottom of said member, and a minor axis orthogonal to said major axis, said cross-section first gradually decreasing in width as measured orthogonal to said major axis progressing along said major axis from said minor axis towards the top and bottom and then gradually increasing in width toward the top and bottom of said member, said stabilizing member being located between said first and second rows of springs in said gap with said major axis thereof being aligned substantially parallel to said longitudinal axes of said springs.
a plurality of springs each having a longitudinal axis and being organized into rows and columns and forming a support surface with a top and bottom, with at least a first row of springs and a second row of springs spaced inboard from said first row and generally parallel to said first row, with a gap thereby being formed between said first and second rows;
means for retaining said springs in said assembly;
and an elongated stabilizing and reinforcing beam of resilient material which can be compressed under load and will thereafter return to its original shape upon removal of said load, said stabilizing member having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongated length, and a cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis having a major axis to said cross-section extending from top to bottom of said member, and a minor axis orthogonal to said major axis, said cross-section first gradually decreasing in width as measured orthogonal to said major axis progressing along said major axis from said minor axis towards the top and bottom and then gradually increasing in width toward the top and bottom of said member, said stabilizing member being located between said first and second rows of springs in said gap with said major axis thereof being aligned substantially parallel to said longitudinal axes of said springs.
13. The innerspring assembly of claim 12 wherein said innerspring is rectangular in shape, and said stabilizing member extends in gaps between first and second rows defined along a lateral side of said innerspring assembly.
14. The innerspring assembly of claim 12 wherein said innerspring is rectangular in shape, and said stabilizing member is comprised of a plurality of abutting segments which run parallel to a lateral side of said innerspring.
15. An elongated stabilizing and reinforcing beam of resilient material which can be compressed under load and will thereafter return to its original shape upon removal of said load, for use in an innerspring assembly formed of springs, a plurality of such springs each having a longitudinal axis and being organized into rows and forming a support surface with a top and bottom, with at least a first row of springs and a second row of springs spaced inboard from said first row and generally parallel to said first row, a gap thereby being formed between said first and second rows, and means for retaining said springs in said assembly, said stabilizing member having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongated length, and a generally symmetric cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis having a major axis and a minor axis, said major axis being of greater length than said minor axis, said cross-section having a perimeter shape where sides of said perimeter are at least partially defined by a rhombus-shape having top and bottom ends with said major axis as measured along the diagonal between two diametrically opposed corners with the side surfaces of the rhombus-shape being fully extended, and said minor axis as measured along another diagonal between the other two diametrically opposed corners, said perimeter shape further defined by a trapezoid-shape superposed upon each end of said modified rhombus-shape on said major axis with the greater of the parallel sides of said trapezoid-shape located at each of said ends of said modified rhombus-shape, said stabilizing member being located between said first and second rows of springs in said gap with said major axis thereof being aligned substantially parallel to said longitudinal axes of said springs.
16. An innerspring assembly comprising:
a plurality of springs each having a longitudinal axis and being organized into rows and forming a support surface with a top and bottom, with at least a first row of springs and a second row of springs spaced inboard from said first row and generally parallel to said first row, with a gap thereby being formed between said first and second rows;
means for retaining said springs in said assembly;
and an elongated stabilizing and reinforcing beam of resilient material which can be compressed under load and will thereafter return to its original shape upon removal of said load, said stabilizing member having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongated length, and a cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis having a major axis and a minor axis, said major axis being of greater length than said minor axis, said cross-section having a perimeter shape where sides of said perimeter are at least partially defined by a modified rhombus-shape having top and bottom ends with said major axis as measured along the diagonal between two diametrically opposed corners with the side surfaces of the modified rhombus-shape being fully extended, and said minor axis as measured along another diagonal between the other two diametrically opposed corners, said perimeter shape further defined by a trapezoid-shape superposed upon each end of said modified rhombus-shape on said major axis with the greater of the parallel sides of said trapezoid-shape located at each of said ends of said modified rhombus-shape, said stabilizing member being located between said first and second rows of springs in said gap with said major axis thereof being aligned substantially parallel to said longitudinal axes of said springs.
a plurality of springs each having a longitudinal axis and being organized into rows and forming a support surface with a top and bottom, with at least a first row of springs and a second row of springs spaced inboard from said first row and generally parallel to said first row, with a gap thereby being formed between said first and second rows;
means for retaining said springs in said assembly;
and an elongated stabilizing and reinforcing beam of resilient material which can be compressed under load and will thereafter return to its original shape upon removal of said load, said stabilizing member having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongated length, and a cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis having a major axis and a minor axis, said major axis being of greater length than said minor axis, said cross-section having a perimeter shape where sides of said perimeter are at least partially defined by a modified rhombus-shape having top and bottom ends with said major axis as measured along the diagonal between two diametrically opposed corners with the side surfaces of the modified rhombus-shape being fully extended, and said minor axis as measured along another diagonal between the other two diametrically opposed corners, said perimeter shape further defined by a trapezoid-shape superposed upon each end of said modified rhombus-shape on said major axis with the greater of the parallel sides of said trapezoid-shape located at each of said ends of said modified rhombus-shape, said stabilizing member being located between said first and second rows of springs in said gap with said major axis thereof being aligned substantially parallel to said longitudinal axes of said springs.
17. The innerspring assembly of claim 16 wherein said innerspring is rectangular in shape, and said stabilizing member extends in gaps between first and second rows defined along a lateral side of said innerspring assembly.
18. The innerspring assembly of claim 16 wherein said innerspring is rectangular in shape, and said stabilizing member is comprised of a plurality of abutting segments which run parallel to a lateral side of said innerspring.
19. A method of stabilizing and reinforcing an innerspring assembly for cushions and mattresses, comprising the steps of:
providing elongated resilient members each having a longitudinal axis and a generally symmetric cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis having a major axis and a minor axis, said major axis being of greater length than said minor axis, said cross-section having a perimeter shape where sides of said perimeter are at least partially defined by a modified rhombus-shape with said major axis as measured along the diagonal between where two diametrically opposed corners would be with the sides of the rhombus-shape being fully extended to terminate at a point, and said minor axis as measured along another diagonal between where the other two diametrically opposed corners would be with the sides of the rhombus-shape being fully extended to terminate at a point, said perimeter shape to said cross-section being further defined by a trapezoid-shape superposed upon each of the ends of said modified rhombus-shape on said major axis with the greater of the parallel sides of said trapezoid shape being coextensive with each of said ends of said modified rhombus-shape;
forming an innerspring of a plurality of springs defining a support surface and sides, said springs being organized into a first row and a second row spaced inwardly from said first row and running generally parallel to said first row, said second row being spaced from said first row with a gap thereby being defined between said first and second rows; and inserting said resilient member between said first and second rows within said gap with said resilient member major axis extending generally perpendicular to said support surface of the innerspring assembly.
providing elongated resilient members each having a longitudinal axis and a generally symmetric cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis having a major axis and a minor axis, said major axis being of greater length than said minor axis, said cross-section having a perimeter shape where sides of said perimeter are at least partially defined by a modified rhombus-shape with said major axis as measured along the diagonal between where two diametrically opposed corners would be with the sides of the rhombus-shape being fully extended to terminate at a point, and said minor axis as measured along another diagonal between where the other two diametrically opposed corners would be with the sides of the rhombus-shape being fully extended to terminate at a point, said perimeter shape to said cross-section being further defined by a trapezoid-shape superposed upon each of the ends of said modified rhombus-shape on said major axis with the greater of the parallel sides of said trapezoid shape being coextensive with each of said ends of said modified rhombus-shape;
forming an innerspring of a plurality of springs defining a support surface and sides, said springs being organized into a first row and a second row spaced inwardly from said first row and running generally parallel to said first row, said second row being spaced from said first row with a gap thereby being defined between said first and second rows; and inserting said resilient member between said first and second rows within said gap with said resilient member major axis extending generally perpendicular to said support surface of the innerspring assembly.
20. The method of claim 19 wherein said springs of said innerspring are joined together before inserting said resilient member, and said resilient member is inserted in said gap by sliding therein in a direction parallel to said support surface.
21. The method of claim 19 wherein said innerspring assembly is formed of orthogonal rows of springs, and including the step of inserting said stabilizing members spaced inboard from and substantially parallel to each said innerspring side.
22. The method of claim 21 wherein said first row of springs is the outermost and perimetrical row of springs of said innerspring.
23. A method of stabilizing and reinforcing an innerspring assembly for cushions and mattresses, comprising the steps of:
providing elongated resilient members each having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongated length, and a cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis having a major axis and a minor axis, said major axis being of greater length than said minor axis, said cross-section having a perimeter shape where sides of said perimeter are at least partially defined by a modified rhombus-shape having truncated top and bottom ends with said major axis as measured along the diagonal between where two diametrically opposed corners would be with the sides of the rhombus-shape being fully extended, and said minor axis as measured along another diagonal between the other two diametrically opposed corners, said perimeter shape being further defined by a trapezoid-shape superposed upon each end of said modified rhombus-shape on said major axis with the greater of the parallel sides of said trapezoid-shape being coextensive with each of said ends of said modified rhombus-shape;
forming an innerspring of a plurality of springs defining a support surface and sides, said springs being organized into a first row and a second row spaced inwardly from said first row and running generally parallel to said first row, said second row being spaced from said first row with a gap thereby being defined between said first and second rows; and inserting said resilient member between said first and second rows within said gap with said resilient member major axis extending generally perpendicular to said support surface of the innerspring assembly.
providing elongated resilient members each having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongated length, and a cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis having a major axis and a minor axis, said major axis being of greater length than said minor axis, said cross-section having a perimeter shape where sides of said perimeter are at least partially defined by a modified rhombus-shape having truncated top and bottom ends with said major axis as measured along the diagonal between where two diametrically opposed corners would be with the sides of the rhombus-shape being fully extended, and said minor axis as measured along another diagonal between the other two diametrically opposed corners, said perimeter shape being further defined by a trapezoid-shape superposed upon each end of said modified rhombus-shape on said major axis with the greater of the parallel sides of said trapezoid-shape being coextensive with each of said ends of said modified rhombus-shape;
forming an innerspring of a plurality of springs defining a support surface and sides, said springs being organized into a first row and a second row spaced inwardly from said first row and running generally parallel to said first row, said second row being spaced from said first row with a gap thereby being defined between said first and second rows; and inserting said resilient member between said first and second rows within said gap with said resilient member major axis extending generally perpendicular to said support surface of the innerspring assembly.
24. The method of claim 23 wherein said springs of said innerspring are joined together before inserting said resilient member, and said resilient member is inserted in said gap by sliding therein in a direction parallel to said support surface.
25. The method of claim 23 wherein said innerspring assembly is formed of orthogonal rows of springs, and including the step of inserting said stabilizing members spaced inboard from and substantially parallel to each said innerspring side.
26. The method of claim 25 wherein said first row of springs is the outermost and perimetrical row of springs of said innerspring.
27. A method of stabilizing and reinforcing an innerspring assembly for cushions and mattresses, comprising the steps of:
providing elongated resilient members each having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongated length, and a cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis having a major axis to said cross-section extending from top to bottom of said member, and a minor axis orthogonal to said major axis of said member, said cross-section first gradually decreasing in width as measured orthogonal to said major axis progressing along said major axis from said minor axis and then towards the top and bottom gradually increasing in width toward the top and bottom of said member;
forming an innerspring of a plurality of springs defining a support surface and sides, said springs being organized into a first row and a second row spaced inwardly from said first row and running generally parallel to said first row, said second row being spaced from said first row with a gap thereby being defined between said first and second rows; and inserting said resilient member between said first and second rows within said gap with said resilient member major axis extending generally perpendicular to said support surface of the innerspring assembly.
providing elongated resilient members each having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongated length, and a cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis having a major axis to said cross-section extending from top to bottom of said member, and a minor axis orthogonal to said major axis of said member, said cross-section first gradually decreasing in width as measured orthogonal to said major axis progressing along said major axis from said minor axis and then towards the top and bottom gradually increasing in width toward the top and bottom of said member;
forming an innerspring of a plurality of springs defining a support surface and sides, said springs being organized into a first row and a second row spaced inwardly from said first row and running generally parallel to said first row, said second row being spaced from said first row with a gap thereby being defined between said first and second rows; and inserting said resilient member between said first and second rows within said gap with said resilient member major axis extending generally perpendicular to said support surface of the innerspring assembly.
28. The method of claim 29 wherein said springs of said innerspring are joined together before inserting said resilient member, and said resilient member is inserted in said gap by sliding therein in a direction parallel to said support surface.
29. The method of claim 29 wherein said innerspring assembly is formed of orthogonal rows of springs, and including the step of inserting said stabilizing members spaced inboard from and substantially parallel to each said innerspring side.
30. The method of claim 29 wherein said first row of springs is the outermost and perimetrical row of springs of said innerspring.
31. A method of stabilizing and reinforcing an innerspring assembly for cushions and mattresses, comprising the steps of:
providing elongated resilient members each having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongated length, and a generally symmetric cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis having a major axis and a minor axis, said major axis being of greater length than said minor axis, said cross-section having a perimeter shape where sides of said perimeter are at least partially defined by a rhombus-shape having top and bottom ends with said major axis as measured along the diagonal between where two diametrically opposed corners would be with the sides of the rhombus-shape being fully extended to terminate at points, and said minor axis as measured along another diagonal between where the other two diametrically opposed corners would be with the sides of the rhombus-shape being fully extended to terminate at points, said perimeter shape further defined by a trapezoid-shape superposed upon each end of said modified rhombus-shape on said major axis with the greater of the parallel sides of said trapezoid-shape located at each of said ends of said modified rhombus-shape;
forming an innerspring of a plurality of springs defining a support surface and sides, said springs being organized into a first row and a second row spaced inwardly from said first row and running generally parallel to said first row, said second row being spaced from said first row with a gap thereby being defined between said first and second rows; and inserting said resilient member between said first and second rows within said gap with said resilient member major axis extending generally perpendicular to said support surface of the innerspring assembly.
providing elongated resilient members each having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongated length, and a generally symmetric cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis having a major axis and a minor axis, said major axis being of greater length than said minor axis, said cross-section having a perimeter shape where sides of said perimeter are at least partially defined by a rhombus-shape having top and bottom ends with said major axis as measured along the diagonal between where two diametrically opposed corners would be with the sides of the rhombus-shape being fully extended to terminate at points, and said minor axis as measured along another diagonal between where the other two diametrically opposed corners would be with the sides of the rhombus-shape being fully extended to terminate at points, said perimeter shape further defined by a trapezoid-shape superposed upon each end of said modified rhombus-shape on said major axis with the greater of the parallel sides of said trapezoid-shape located at each of said ends of said modified rhombus-shape;
forming an innerspring of a plurality of springs defining a support surface and sides, said springs being organized into a first row and a second row spaced inwardly from said first row and running generally parallel to said first row, said second row being spaced from said first row with a gap thereby being defined between said first and second rows; and inserting said resilient member between said first and second rows within said gap with said resilient member major axis extending generally perpendicular to said support surface of the innerspring assembly.
32. The method of claim 31 wherein said springs of said innerspring are joined together before inserting said resilient member, and said resilient member is inserted in said gap by sliding therein in a direction parallel to said support surface.
33. The method of claim 31 wherein said innerspring assembly is formed of orthogonal rows of springs, and including the step of inserting said stabilizing members spaced inboard from and substantially parallel to each said innerspring side.
34. The method of claim 33 wherein said first row of springs is the outermost and perimetrical row of springs of said innerspring.
35. A method for making a stabilizing and reinforcing member of a resilient material which can be compressed under a load and thereafter return to its original shape upon removal of said load, the member for an innerspring assembly for cushions and mattresses, comprising the steps of:
determining the spring rate of a predetermined spring, a plurality of which are to be used in an assembly of springs for an innerspring assembly, and forming an elongated member of resilient material for insertion between rows of springs in an assembly of springs, said elongated member having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongate length, and exterior surfaces generally parallel to the longitudinal axis defining a cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis with a perimeter shape where sides of said perimeter are at least partially defined by a modified rhombus shape with major axis as measured along the diagonal between where two diametrically opposed corners would be with the sides of the modified rhombus shape being fully extended to terminate at a point and a minor axis as measured along the diagonal between where the other two diametrically opposed corners would be with the sides of the modified rhombus shape being fully extended to terminate at a point, said perimeter further defined by a trapezoid shape superposed upon each end of said modified rhombus shape on said major axis with the greater of the parallel sides of said trapezoid shape located at each of said ends of said modified rhombus shape, with said cross-section and resilient material to in combination yield a spring rate for said stabilizing and reinforcing member which approximates the spring rate of said predetermined spring.
determining the spring rate of a predetermined spring, a plurality of which are to be used in an assembly of springs for an innerspring assembly, and forming an elongated member of resilient material for insertion between rows of springs in an assembly of springs, said elongated member having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongate length, and exterior surfaces generally parallel to the longitudinal axis defining a cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis with a perimeter shape where sides of said perimeter are at least partially defined by a modified rhombus shape with major axis as measured along the diagonal between where two diametrically opposed corners would be with the sides of the modified rhombus shape being fully extended to terminate at a point and a minor axis as measured along the diagonal between where the other two diametrically opposed corners would be with the sides of the modified rhombus shape being fully extended to terminate at a point, said perimeter further defined by a trapezoid shape superposed upon each end of said modified rhombus shape on said major axis with the greater of the parallel sides of said trapezoid shape located at each of said ends of said modified rhombus shape, with said cross-section and resilient material to in combination yield a spring rate for said stabilizing and reinforcing member which approximates the spring rate of said predetermined spring.
36. A method for making a stabilizing and reinforcing member of a resilient material which can be compressed under a load and thereafter return to its original shape upon removal of said load, the member for an innerspring assembly for cushions and mattresses, comprising the steps of:
determining the spring rate of a predetermined spring, a plurality of which are to be used in an assembly of springs for an innerspring assembly, and forming an elongated member of resilient material for insertion between rows of springs in an assembly of springs, said elongated member having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongate length, and exterior surfaces generally parallel to the longitudinal axis defining a cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis and having a major axis and a minor axis, said major axis being of greater length than said minor axis, said cross-section having a perimeter shape where sides of said perimeter are at least partially defined by a modified rhombus-shape having truncated top and bottom ends with said major axis as measured along the diagonal between where two diametrically opposed corners would be with the sides of the rhombus-shape being fully extended, and said minor axis as measured along another diagonal between the other two diametrically opposed corners, said perimeter shape being further defined by a trapezoid-shape superposed upon each end of said modified rhombus-shape on said major axis with the greater of the parallel sides of said trapezoid-shape being coextensive with each of said ends of said modified rhombus-shape, with said cross-section and resilient material to in combination yield a spring rate for said stabilizing and reinforcing member which approximates the spring rate of said predetermined spring.
determining the spring rate of a predetermined spring, a plurality of which are to be used in an assembly of springs for an innerspring assembly, and forming an elongated member of resilient material for insertion between rows of springs in an assembly of springs, said elongated member having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongate length, and exterior surfaces generally parallel to the longitudinal axis defining a cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis and having a major axis and a minor axis, said major axis being of greater length than said minor axis, said cross-section having a perimeter shape where sides of said perimeter are at least partially defined by a modified rhombus-shape having truncated top and bottom ends with said major axis as measured along the diagonal between where two diametrically opposed corners would be with the sides of the rhombus-shape being fully extended, and said minor axis as measured along another diagonal between the other two diametrically opposed corners, said perimeter shape being further defined by a trapezoid-shape superposed upon each end of said modified rhombus-shape on said major axis with the greater of the parallel sides of said trapezoid-shape being coextensive with each of said ends of said modified rhombus-shape, with said cross-section and resilient material to in combination yield a spring rate for said stabilizing and reinforcing member which approximates the spring rate of said predetermined spring.
37. A method for making a stabilizing and reinforcing member of a resilient material which can be compressed under a load and thereafter return to its original shape upon removal of said load, the member for an innerspring assembly for cushions and mattresses, comprising the steps of:
determining the spring rate of a predetermined spring, a plurality of which are to be used in an assembly of springs for an innerspring assembly, and forming an elongated member of resilient material for insertion between rows of springs in an assembly of springs, said elongated member having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongate length, and exterior surfaces generally parallel to the longitudinal axis defining a cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis with a major axis to said cross-section extending from top to bottom of said member, and a minor axis orthogonal to said major axis of said member, said cross-section first gradually decreasing in width as measured orthogonal to said major axis progressing along said major axis from said minor axis and then towards the top and bottom gradually increasing in width toward the top and bottom of said member, with said cross-section and resilient material to in combination yield a spring rate for said stabilizing and reinforcing member which approximates the spring rate of said predetermined spring.
determining the spring rate of a predetermined spring, a plurality of which are to be used in an assembly of springs for an innerspring assembly, and forming an elongated member of resilient material for insertion between rows of springs in an assembly of springs, said elongated member having a longitudinal axis extending along its elongate length, and exterior surfaces generally parallel to the longitudinal axis defining a cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis with a major axis to said cross-section extending from top to bottom of said member, and a minor axis orthogonal to said major axis of said member, said cross-section first gradually decreasing in width as measured orthogonal to said major axis progressing along said major axis from said minor axis and then towards the top and bottom gradually increasing in width toward the top and bottom of said member, with said cross-section and resilient material to in combination yield a spring rate for said stabilizing and reinforcing member which approximates the spring rate of said predetermined spring.
38. A method for making a stabilizing and reinforcing member of a resilient material which can be compressed under a load and thereafter return to its original shape upon removal of said load, the member for an innerspring assembly for cushions and mattresses, comprising the steps of:
determining the spring rate of a predetermined spring, a plurality of which are to be used in an assembly of springs for an innerspring assembly, and forming an elongated member of resilient material for insertion between rows of springs in an assembly of springs, which elongated member has a longitudinal axis extending along its elongate length, and exterior surfaces generally parallel to the longitudinal axis defining a cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis and having a major axis and a minor axis, said major axis being of greater length than said minor axis, and said minor axis orthogonal to said major axis, said cross-section having a perimeter shape where sides of said perimeter are at least partially defined by the non-parallel sides of a first trapezoid-shape having the greater of its parallel sides adjacent said minor axis and by a second trapezoid shape adjacent each end of said trapezoidal shape and on said major axis, with the greater of the parallel sides of said second trapezoid shape located at each end of said cross-section, with said cross-section and resilient material to in combination yield a spring rate for said stabilizing and reinforcing member which approximates the spring rate of said predetermined spring.
determining the spring rate of a predetermined spring, a plurality of which are to be used in an assembly of springs for an innerspring assembly, and forming an elongated member of resilient material for insertion between rows of springs in an assembly of springs, which elongated member has a longitudinal axis extending along its elongate length, and exterior surfaces generally parallel to the longitudinal axis defining a cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis and having a major axis and a minor axis, said major axis being of greater length than said minor axis, and said minor axis orthogonal to said major axis, said cross-section having a perimeter shape where sides of said perimeter are at least partially defined by the non-parallel sides of a first trapezoid-shape having the greater of its parallel sides adjacent said minor axis and by a second trapezoid shape adjacent each end of said trapezoidal shape and on said major axis, with the greater of the parallel sides of said second trapezoid shape located at each end of said cross-section, with said cross-section and resilient material to in combination yield a spring rate for said stabilizing and reinforcing member which approximates the spring rate of said predetermined spring.
39. The method according to claim 38 wherein said cross-section is generally symmetric about said minor axis.
40. The method according to claim 38 wherein said cross-section is generally symmetric about said major axis.
41. A method for making a stabilizing and reinforcing member of a resilient material which can be compressed under a load and thereafter return to its original shape upon removal of said load, the member for an innerspring assembly for cushions and mattresses, comprising the steps of:
determining the spring rate of a predetermined spring, a plurality of which are to be used in an assembly of springs for an innerspring assembly, and forming an elongated member of resilient material for insertion between rows of springs in an assembly of springs, which elongated member has a longitudinal axis extending along its elongate length, and exterior surfaces generally parallel to the longitudinal axis defining a cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis and having a major axis and a minor axis, said major axis being of greater length than said minor axis, and said minor axis orthogonal to said major axis, said cross-section having a perimeter shape where sides of said perimeter are at least partially defined by the non-parallel sides of a trapezoid-shape having the greater of its parallel sides adjacent said minor axis and said cross-section first gradually decreasing in width as measured orthogonal to said major axis progressing along said major axis from said minor axis towards the perimeter of said cross-section and then gradually increasing in width toward the perimeter of said cross-section, with said cross-section and resilient material to in combination yield a spring rate for said stabilizing and reinforcing member which approximates the spring rate of said predetermined spring.
determining the spring rate of a predetermined spring, a plurality of which are to be used in an assembly of springs for an innerspring assembly, and forming an elongated member of resilient material for insertion between rows of springs in an assembly of springs, which elongated member has a longitudinal axis extending along its elongate length, and exterior surfaces generally parallel to the longitudinal axis defining a cross-section orthogonal to said longitudinal axis and having a major axis and a minor axis, said major axis being of greater length than said minor axis, and said minor axis orthogonal to said major axis, said cross-section having a perimeter shape where sides of said perimeter are at least partially defined by the non-parallel sides of a trapezoid-shape having the greater of its parallel sides adjacent said minor axis and said cross-section first gradually decreasing in width as measured orthogonal to said major axis progressing along said major axis from said minor axis towards the perimeter of said cross-section and then gradually increasing in width toward the perimeter of said cross-section, with said cross-section and resilient material to in combination yield a spring rate for said stabilizing and reinforcing member which approximates the spring rate of said predetermined spring.
42. The method according to claim 41 wherein said cross-section is generally symmetric about said minor axis.
43. The method according to claim 41 wherein said cross-section is generally symmetric about said major axis.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2117205 CA2117205C (en) | 1994-03-08 | 1994-03-08 | Border stabilizing member and method for making mattresses, cushions and the like using the same |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2117205 CA2117205C (en) | 1994-03-08 | 1994-03-08 | Border stabilizing member and method for making mattresses, cushions and the like using the same |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2117205A1 CA2117205A1 (en) | 1995-09-09 |
| CA2117205C true CA2117205C (en) | 1996-11-12 |
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| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2117205 Expired - Fee Related CA2117205C (en) | 1994-03-08 | 1994-03-08 | Border stabilizing member and method for making mattresses, cushions and the like using the same |
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| Country | Link |
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| CA (1) | CA2117205C (en) |
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| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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| MX2018003522A (en) | 2015-09-25 | 2018-09-11 | Sca Hygiene Prod Ab | Pump with a polymer spring. |
| WO2017050390A1 (en) | 2015-09-25 | 2017-03-30 | Sca Hygiene Products Ab | Pump for dispensing fluids |
| WO2018177519A1 (en) | 2017-03-29 | 2018-10-04 | Essity Hygiene And Health Aktiebolag | Plastomer spring with captive valve |
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