GB2598199A

GB2598199A - A bed

Info

Publication number: GB2598199A
Application number: GB2110126.6A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Rose Turner Linda
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2020-07-20
Filing date: 2021-07-14
Publication date: 2022-02-23
Anticipated expiration: 2041-07-14
Also published as: GB202110126D0; GB202011182D0; GB2598199B

Abstract

A bed 10, suitable for a mobile sleeping unit, and designed and configured to enhance ease of access around the bed when not in use and to provide a full-sized sleeping arrangement when in use. The bed comprises a mattress supporting part 12 adapted to support a mattress (50, Figure 4). The perimeter of the supporting part has an outwardly facing perimeter side wall 22 comprising at least one chamfered region 26 defining a perimeter access space 28. A moveable extension member 30 is associated with the mattress supporting part to permit extension of the support part in the region of the access space. A mattress part (60, Figure 6) is received by the extension member. Said extension member has a first position to enable extension of the supporting part and to allow the mattress part to be supported; and a second position where extension of the supporting part in the region of the access space is prevented. Also disclosed is a bed and mattress arrangement comprising the bed and the mattress and the mattress supporting part. A mobile sleeping unit comprising the bed is disclosed. The unit may comprise a caravan or motorhome.

Description

A BED

The invention relates to a bed. Although not exclusively, the invention relates to a bed for use in the interior of a mobile sleeping unit, for example, a mobile home (e.g. motor home or caravan), a land vehicle including a bed (e.g. a coach, railway carriage, or truck), an aircraft including a bed (e.g. an aeroplane) or a watercraft including a bed (e.g. boat, yacht, ship, river cruiser). Suitably, the invention provides an extendable bed wherein the outwardly facing perimeter side wail of the bed comprises a chamfered region defining a perimeter access space to facilitate and/or enhance ease of access around the perimeter of the bed by a person, when the bed is not in use, and the bed includes a moveable extension member to permit extension of the mattress supporting part of the bed and to allow a mattress part to be supported across the perimeter access space, when the bed is in use, thereby providing a full-sized bed for one or more people. The invention also provides a mobile sleeping unit, such as a mobile home, especially a motor home, including the bed of the invention.

Mobile sleeping units, such as a mobile home (e.g. caravan, motorhome, camper van), a land vehicle including a bed (e.g. a coach, railway carriage, or truck), an aircraft including a bed (e.g. an aeroplane) or a marine vessel including a bed (e.g. boat, yacht, ship, river cruiser), typically have a defined and limited amount of interior space which is dictated by the overall size of the unit. Suitably, it is desirable to maximise the potential use of the available interior space and to minimise the number of obstacles which may prevent or hinder free movement of a person within the unit. This may be achieved by an appropriate design and layout, for example by using smaller items and the appropriate layout and/or design of items within the interior of the unit.

For example, the interior of a mobile home (e.g. a motor home) typically comprises a seating and dining area for the occupants, a kitchen, washroom and toilet, storage facilities and a bed for each occupant. As the amount of interior space is limited and dictated by the overall size of the mobile home, the design and layout of the interior is an important consideration for manufacturers and end users alike. It is desirable the design and layout maximise available living space during the daytime and permits ease of access to all parts of the mobile home, for example, ease of access to the toilet and washroom facilities.

The bed(s) of a mobile home typically occupy a large proportion of the interior space of the mobile home. To maximise available living space during day time and allow ease of access to other facilities in the home, one solution is to use a seating area arrangement which is convertible into one or more beds. Although such an arrangement is attractive for smaller mobile homes, particularly where it is desirable to have a larger lounge area, the convertible seating arrangement has various disadvantages. First, it is necessary to convert the seating arrangement into a bed and make up the bed each night, which is inconvenient and time consuming. Further, the seating arrangement and subsequent bed converted therefrom typically use the same cushions for seating and as a mattress for sleeping. The convertible seating arrangement therefore typically requires a compromise of comfort for the user when seated and comfort whilst sleeping, compared with the use of separate cushion(s) for seating and a separate real mattress for sleeping.

Accordingly, a fixed bed and a separate seating area layout may be favoured. The separate fixed bed permits the use of a dedicated real mattress to a specification chosen by the user, thereby enhancing comfort whilst sleeping and promoting a good night's sleep. Further, a fixed bed provides the option of under bed storage facilities. However, a fixed bed and separate seating area layout typically occupies significantly more interior space of the home than a convertible seating/bed arrangement. Suitably, a fixed bed may also restrict or inhibit access to other facilities in the mobile home. For example, the fixed bed typically protrudes significantly into the interior space of the home and may inhibit ease of access within the home, for example access to the toilet and washroom facilities. Suitably, such problems may be more pronounced for a smaller sized mobile home having less interior space compared with a larger sized home, and/or for a mobile home where it is necessary and/or desired to have the bed extending longitudinally within the interior of the home. Accordingly, to overcome such problems, mobile home designers have proposed various solutions.

One such solution is to position the fixed bed, typically a bed dimensioned to accommodate two persons, transversely within the interior of the home so that a longer side of the bed is positioned against the rear interior wall of the home (i.e. a trans verse bed arrangement). Typically, the bed is isolated from the rest of the interior by the washroom facilities and each end of the bed is flanked with storage compartment(s) (e.g. a wardrobe). Such a layout typically maximises available living space in the remainder of the home and may offer significant additional storage space under the bed. However, such an arrangement does have disadvantages. First, when two people are in bed, the person nearest the interior rear wall must climb over the other person to get out of bed. This is not only inconvenient, but the other person if asleep will likely be woken up. Further, the transverse rear bed arrangement is only suitable for larger sized mobile homes which have an interior width that is at least equal to, preferably greater than, the length of the bed, to allow the bed to be positioned in such a way within the mobile home.

An alternative solution is an island bed layout where the head of the bed is positioned against an interior wall of the mobile home and the bed, typically a bed dimensioned to accommodate two persons, extends longitudinally or transversely within the interior of the home. Such a layout permits access to the bed from each side of the bed. Suitably, as the bed is typically longer than it is wide, an island bed layout typically occupies more interior space of the mobile home than a transverse rear bed arrangement. Accordingly, an island bed layout is typically only suitable for larger sized mobile homes. Further, although the island bed layout permits access to the bed from each side, it is typically also necessary to shape and/or cut-away sections from the perimeter of the bed, typically remove the corners of the perimeter at the foot of the bed, to facilitate ease of access around the bed and/or promote ease of access to other facilities within the mobile home, e.g. the washroom. Further, to accommodate such an island bed arrangement, a double sized bed in a mobile home may have reduced dimensions compared to a standard double bed, for example, a full sized standard double bed is typically 6 foot 3 inches long and 4 foot 6 inches wide, whereas it is not uncommon for a double bed in a mobile home to have a maximum length of 6 foot or less and a maximum width of only 4 foot. Suitably, the shaped or cut-away section(s) at the end of the bed, especially in combination with any reduced bed dimensions, may mean the foot and/or leg of person when lying on the bed overhangs the end of the bed. Suitably, such a sleeping position is typically uncomfortable for the user, and it is unlikely to promote a good night's sleep.

A further proposed solution is to position a longer side of the fixed bed along the interior side wall of the mobile home (i.e. a longitudinal bed arrangement). Typically, the perimeter of the bed facing inwardly to the interior of the home includes a cut-away region, typically a cut-away region at a corner at the foot of the bed. Such an arrangement may be referred to as a French bed. The cut-away region facilitates ease of access around the perimeter of the bed by a person and enables ease of access to other facilities within the home, such as the washroom. The French bed typically occupies less interior space than an island bed layout, it uses a real mattress to promote a good night's sleep, but it is not possible to access the bed from each side of the bed.

Typically, the French bed arrangement is a common arrangement, and it is used in a standard more compact sized mobile home, particularly such home which cannot accommodate the transverse bed layout. The French bed arrangement may comprise one or more single beds and/or a double bed. Typically, the bed is designed to accommodate two persons but has reduced dimensions compared to a standard double bed. For example, a double sized French bed in a mobile home typically has a maximum length of 6 foot or less and maximum width of approximately only 4 foot wide, the length and width of the bed in a direction towards the cutaway region being significantly reduced and less than 6 foot and 4 foot, respectively. The main problem with the French bed arrangement is due to the cutaway region at the foot of the bed, especially in combination with any reduced bed dimensions, as typically a person sleeping on the interior facing side of the bed will not have a full length or full width bed. Consequently, that person's foot and/or leg invariably overhangs the end of the bed. Further, as the bed typically has an overall reduced maximum width, the bed, especially a double bed, does not offer alternative areas for a person to place their legs to avoid the cutaway region. A shortcoming which is unlikely to promote a good night's sleep for the user.

Accordingly, the present invention aims to solve one or more of the above technical problems associated with a bed for a mobile sleeping unit, especially a mobile home such as a motor home or caravan. In particular, although not exclusively, the invention aims to solve the technical problem of providing a bed for the interior of a mobile sleeping unit, especially a fixed bed for the interior of a mobile sleeping unit, which allows ease of access around the perimeter of the bed, when the bed is not in use, and provide a full sized bed (e.g. full length and/or width bed) for one or more persons to sleep when the bed is in use. Suitably, the bed of the invention aims to solve the technical problem of providing a bed (e.g. fixed bed) for the interior of a mobile sleeping unit that permits independent adjustment (e.g. extension) of the length of the bed and independent adjustment (e.g. extension) of the width of the bed. Suitably, the bed of the invention may also enable an increase in available living space within the interior of the unit. Accordingly, the invention aims to solve one or more of the above technical problems associated with a mobile sleeping unit which includes a fixed bed within the interior of the unit.

Thus, according to a first aspect, the present invention provides a bed for a mobile sleeping unit, the bed comprising a mattress supporting part adapted to support a mattress in a substantially horizontal theoretical plane extending along the longitudinal axis of the mattress, the perimeter of the mattress supporting part having an outwardly facing perimeter side wall, the outwardly facing perimeter side wall comprising at least one chamfered region between a first and second region of said outwardly facing perimeter side wall, the chamfered region(s) defining a perimeter access space exterior to said outwardly facing perimeter side wall to allow enhanced ease of access around the perimeter of the mattress supporting part by a person; a moveable extension member associated with the mattress supporting part to permit extension of the mattress supporting part in the region of said perimeter access space defined by said chamfered region(s), wherein the moveable extension member is adapted to support a mattress part in a substantially horizontal theoretical plane extending along the longitudinal axis of the mattress part, the moveable extension member having a first position to enable extension of the mattress supporting part in the region of said perimeter access space and to allow a mattress part to be supported in said substantially horizontal position across said perimeter access space by said moveable extension member, and the moveable extension member having a second position so that extension of the mattress supporting part in the region of said perimeter access space is prevented and to allow access to said perimeter access space by a person and permit enhanced ease of access around the perimeter of the mattress supporting part Suitably, the moveable extension member is positioned in the first position (extended position) when the bed is in use. Suitably, the moveable extension member when in the first position allows extension of a width and/or length of the mattress supporting part, particularly in the region of the perimeter access space.

Suitably, the moveable extension member is positioned in the second position (non-extended position) when the bed is not in use to allow exposure of the perimeter access space.

Preferably, the moveable extension member is moveable relative to the mattress supporting part to permit independent adjustment (e.g. extension) of the length of the mattress supporting part and independent adjustment (e.g. extension) of the width of the mattress supporting part. Suitably, such independent adjustment of the length and independent adjustment of the width of the mattress supporting part by the moveable extension member (e.g. by moving the extension member from a non-extended to extended position) may be achieved by the moveable extension member being independently moveable relative to the length and width of the mattress supporting part. For example, the moveable extension member may be independently slideably moveable relative to the length of the mattress supporting part and independently slideably moveable relative to the width of the mattress supporting part. Accordingly, such independent adjustment of the length and width of the mattress supporting part permits independent adjustment of the length and width of the bed. Advantageously, such an arrangement between mattress supporting part and extension member permits the use of a single extension member with different sized beds (i.e. beds having a mattress supporting part of different length and/or different width) and/or with beds having different sized perimeter access space(s).

Advantageously, the bed of the invention includes a mattress supporting part which defines a perimeter access space located on the outwardly facing side of the mattress supporting part and/or outwardly facing side of the perimeter of the bed when the bed is not in use. The perimeter access space allows enhanced ease of access around the perimeter of the bed by a person, particularly when the bed is not in use. Accordingly, when the bed is positioned in a mobile sleeping unit, enhanced ease of access around the perimeter of the bed permits less restricted access to other parts of and facilities within the unit when the bed is not in use. Suitably, the perimeter access space also frees up available living space within the sleeping unit. Accordingly, the moveable extension member allows extension of the mattress supporting part so that the bed can be converted into a full sized bed (i.e. extension of the width and/or length of the bed) not including a cutaway region when in use. The moveable extension member allows a width and/or length of the mattress supporting part to be increased, when in use.

Suitably, a person sleeping on the bed is provided with a full sized, particularly full length and/or full width, bed and that person's foot and/or leg will typically not overhang the end of the bed, thereby promoting a good night's sleep.

Where claim 1 refers to a bed for a mobile sleeping unit, it refers to a bed 'suitable for' a mobile sleeping unit, the bed does not include the features of the mobile sleeping unit, the features of the mattress or the features of the mattress part.

By the term to support a mattress in a substantially horizontal theoretical plane 25 extending along the longitudinal axis of the mattress" we mean the mattress supporting part supports the mattress in a substantially horizontal position to allow a person to lie in a substantially horizontal recumbent position on the mattress.

By the term "to support a mattress part in a substantially horizontal theoretical plane 30 extending along the longitudinal axis of the mattress part-we mean the moveable extension member supports the mattress in a substantially horizontal position so that it cooperates with the mattress supported by the mattress supporting part to allow a person to lie in a substantially horizontal recumbent position on the mattress and mattress part combination. Preferably, the upper surface of the mattress part is in a substantially coplanar relationship with the upper surface of the mattress It will be appreciated, and for the avoidance of doubt, that the mattress to be supported by the mattress supporting part is configured and dimensioned so that it is essentially identical with the configuration and dimension of the mattress supporting part (i.e. the mattress cooperates with substantially the entire mattress supporting part). In other words, when the mattress is supported by the mattress supporting part the combination defines the perimeter access space(s) exterior to the bed to allow enhanced ease of access around the perimeter of the bed (i.e. mattress supporting part and mattress combination). Preferably, the mattress is independent of the mattress supporting part (i.e. the mattress and mattress supporting part do not form an integrated structure and the mattress and mattress supporting part are separable from each other).

Suitably, the mattress part to be supported by the moveable extension member is configured and dimensioned so that it extends across essentially the entire width and length of the perimeter access space when the mattress part is supported by the moveable extension member in said first (extended) position. Preferably, the mattress part is independent of the moveable extension member (i.e. the mattress part and the extension member do not form an integrated structure and the mattress part and extension member are separable from each other). Advantageously, such an arrangement permits a single extension member to be used with different sized beds (i.e. beds having a mattress supporting part of different length and/or different width) and/or with beds having different sized perimeter access space(s) as it may only be necessary to employ a differently configured and dimensioned mattress part.

Preferably, the moveable extension member comprises a plate for supporting the mattress part. Suitably, the plate is moveable relative to the length and/or width of the mattress part to permit the adjustment of the length and/or width of the mattress supporting part. Preferably, the plate is independently moveable relative to the length of the mattress part and independently moveable relative to the width of the mattress part, thereby permitting independent adjustment of the width and length of the mattress supporting part. Suitably, the plate may be independently slideably moveable relative to the length of the mattress supporting part and independently slideably moveable relative to the width of the mattress supporting part.

Preferably, the plate of the extendable member includes a plurality of channels extending therethrough. Advantageously, such an arrangement permits the plate to be formed from denser and more rigid materials (e.g. metal, such as steel or aluminium), thereby providing the plate with the required functional rigidity and strength whilst minimising the overall weight of the plate to aid manoeuvrability of the plate. Suitably, the plurality of channels extending through the plate permit free flow of air to the mattress part.

Preferably, the moveable extension member includes an upwardly extending retention member (e.g. a side rail) for retaining the mattress part on the extension member.

Suitably, the moveable extension member comprises a plate, as defined herein, for supporting the mattress part and the plate includes an upwardly extending retention member (e.g. side rail) for retaining the mattress part on the plate.

By the term "mobile sleeping unit" we mean a unit which is moveable (i.e. mobile) and includes a bed of the invention. Suitably, the bed of the invention is located within the interior of the mobile sleeping unit, preferably the bed is fixed within the interior of the unit. Accordingly, the term "mobile sleeping unit" includes a mobile home (e.g. motor home or caravan), a land vehicle including a bed (e.g. a coach, railway carriage, or truck), an aircraft including a bed (e.g. an aeroplane) or a watercraft including a bed (e.g. boat, yacht, ship, river cruiser). A preferred "mobile sleeping unit" comprises a mobile home, such as a motor home or caravan, especially a motor home.

Suitably, the perimeter access space defined by the chamfered region(s) of the mattress supporting part comprises a space exterior to the outwardly facing perimeter side wall of the mattress supporting part.

Suitably, the outwardly facing perimeter side wall of the mattress supporting part comprises an outwardly facing side wall face. Suitably, the at least one chamfered region of the outwardly facing perimeter side wall comprises an outwardly facing perimeter side wall region having an outwardly facing side wall face. Accordingly, the perimeter access space defined by the chamfered region(s) of the mattress supporting part comprises a space exterior of said outwardly facing side wall face.

In an embodiment, the at least one chamfered region of the outwardly facing perimeter side wall comprises an outwardly facing perimeter side wall region having an outwardly facing side wall face, said side wall face having a curve, preferably a concave or convex, more preferably a convex, contoured face. Preferably, the profile of said outwardly facing perimeter side wail region, when the mattress supporting part is viewed in a direction along the Y-axis of a mattress supported in said substantially horizontal plane by the mattress supporting part (i.e. when the mattress supporting part is viewed in top plan view and/or when the mattress supporting part is viewed in a direction along the depth of a mattress supported in said substantially horizontal plane by the mattress supporting part), is a substantially curved, preferably a substantially concave or convex, more preferably a convex, shaped profile.

In an alternative embodiment, the at least one chamfered region of the outwardly facing perimeter wall comprises an outwardly facing perimeter side wall region having an outwardly facing side wall face, said side wall face having a substantially planar face. Preferably, the profile of said outwardly facing perimeter side wall region, when the mattress supporting part is viewed in a direction along the Y-axis of a mattress supported in said substantially horizontal plane by said mattress supporting part (i.e. when the mattress supporting part is viewed in top plan view and/or when the mattress supporting part is viewed in a direction along the depth of a mattress supported in said substantially horizontal plane by the mattress supporting part), is a substantially linear, preferably a substantially linear angled, profile.

Preferably, the mattress supporting part of each embodiment of the invention when viewed in a direction along the Y-axis of a mattress supported in said substantially horizontal plane by said mattress supporting part (i.e. when the mattress supporting part is viewed in top plan view and/or when the mattress supporting part is viewed in a direction along the depth of a mattress supported in said substantially horizontal plane by the mattress supporting part), comprises a substantially polygon shaped profile having 3 or more, preferably 3 to 6, especially 4 or 5, straight line sides. It will be appreciated and understood that the chamfered region(s) of the mattress supporting part may form one or more of said straight line sides of said substantially polygon shaped profile when the chamfered region(s) have a linear profile. Alternatively, or additionally, the chamfered region(s) of the mattress supporting part may form a curved, preferably concave or convex, especially convex, shaped side of the substantially polygon shaped profile when the chamfered region(s) have a curved shaped profile.

Preferably, the mattress supporting part of each embodiment of the invention when viewed in a direction along the Y-axis of a mattress supported in said substantially horizontal plane by said mattress supporting part (i.e. when the mattress supporting part is viewed in top plan view and/or when the mattress supporting part is viewed in a direction along the depth of a mattress supported in said substantially horizontal plane by the mattress supporting part), comprises a substantially rectangular or square shaped profile including said at least one chamfered region(s) at one or more corner(s) of said rectangular or square shaped profile. In other words, the chamfered region(s) provide one or more chamfered corner(s) to said substantially rectangular or square shaped profile.

Preferably, the mattress supporting part includes one or two chamfered regions, especially a single chamfered region.

Thus, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the mattress supporting part when viewed in a direction along the Y-axis of a mattress supported in said substantially horizontal plane by said mattress supporting part (i.e. when the mattress supporting part is viewed in top plan view and/or when the mattress supporting part is viewed in a direction along the depth of a mattress supported in said substantially horizontal plane by the mattress supporting part), comprises a substantially rectangular or square shaped profile, preferably a rectangular shaped profile, including a single chamfered region at one corner of said substantially rectangular or square shaped, preferably rectangular shaped, profile Preferably, the chamfered region has a linear, especially linear angled, shaped profile, so that the mattress supporting part comprises a 5 sided straight line polygon shaped profile.

According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the mattress supporting part when viewed in a direction along the Y-axis of a mattress supported in said substantially horizontal plane by said mattress supporting part (i.e. when the mattress supporting part is viewed in top plan view and/or when the mattress supporting part is viewed in a direction along the depth of a mattress supported in said substantially horizontal plane by the mattress supporting part), comprises a substantially rectangular or square shaped profile, preferably a rectangular shaped profile, including two chamfered regions, wherein said first chamfered region is at a first corner of said rectangular or square shaped profile and said second chamfered region is at a second corner of said rectangular or square shaped profile. Preferably, said first corner is adjacent to the second corner of said substantially rectangular or square shaped profile. More preferably, said mattress supporting part has a substantially rectangular shaped profile, said first chamfered region is at a first corner of said rectangular profile, said second chamfered region is at a second corner of said rectangular profile, said first corner is adjacent said second corner of said profile, and said first and second corners are located on a separate longer side of said rectangular profile. Suitably, when each of the chamfered region has a linear, especially linear angled, shaped profile, the mattress supporting part comprises a 6 sided straight line polygon shaped profile. Suitably, when each of the chamfered regions has a curved, preferably concave or convex, especially convex, shaped profile, the mattress supporting part comprises either a 4 sided straight line polygon shaped profile with 2 curved shaped corners or a 3 sided straight line polygon shaped profile with 2 curved shaped contiguous corners (i.e. an arch shaped profile), It will be appreciated and understood, that when the mattress supporting part includes two or more chamfered regions, then each of said chamfered regions may define a separate exterior perimeter access space between different regions of the outwardly facing perimeter side wall. Suitably, the mattress supporting part may include a single moveable extension member to permit extension of the mattress supporting part in the region of said two or more perimeter access spaces defined by the chamfered regions Alternatively, the mattress supporting part may include a separate moveable extension member to permit extension of the mattress supporting part in the region of each of said perimeter access spaces defined by the chamfered regions.

Suitably, the one or more chamfered region(s) of the outwardly facing perimeter wall of the mattress supporting part is contiguous with the other region(s) of the outer perimeter wall.

Suitably, the mattress supporting part comprises a frame. Preferably, the frame includes a plurality of supporting members for supporting the mattress. Preferably, the plurality of supporting members is arranged in a substantially horizontally spaced relationship with respect to each other. For example, the frame may include a plurality of substantially horizontally spaced slats extending across the frame.

Suitably, the mattress supporting part may function as a base for the bed. For example, the mattress supporting part and bed base comprise an integrated structure.

Alternatively, the bed may include a separate base and separate mattress supporting part, the mattress supporting part being adapted to be supported by the separate base.

Suitably, the moveable extension member when in the first position extends across and/or adjacent to said perimeter access space Preferably, the moveable extension member extends across the perimeter access space when the extension member is in the first position.

Suitably, when the extension member is in the first position, a mattress part may be supported by the extension member in such a way that the mattress part is in a substantially horizontal theoretical plane extending along the longitudinal axis of the mattress part. Suitably, the mattress part extends across the perimeter access space.

Preferably, the upper surface of the mattress part is aligned in coplanar arrangement with respect to the upper surface of the mattress supported by the mattress supporting part Suitably, the moveable extension member may be mechanically engaged with the mattress supporting part. Suitably, the moveable extension member may form an integrated part of the mattress supporting part or a non-integrated parr of the mattress supporting part. Preferably, the moveable extension member is a non-integrated part of the mattress supporting part and is separable from the mattress supporting part.

Preferably, the moveable extension member is slideably moveable or pivotally moveable, more preferably slideably moveable, relative to the mattress supporting part.

According to an embodiment, the moveable extension member comprises a plate for supporting the mattress part Preferably, the plate includes a plurality of channels extending therethrough to allow air to pass through the plate. Advantageously, such an arrangement allows the free flow of air to the mattress part.

Preferably, the moveable extension member includes an upwardly extending retention member, such as a side retail, to retain the mattress part on the plate Preferably, the moveable extension member is in the form of a plate having an upwardly extending retention member.

According to an alternative embodiment, the moveable extension member comprises one or more extendable arm(s), wherein said arms are adapted to support a mattress part.

Suitably, when the moveable extension member is in the second position, the moveable extension member does not extend in the region of the perimeter access space.

Advantageously, such an arrangement permits access to the perimeter access space exterior to the mattress supporting part when the bed is not in use and allows less restricted access around the perimeter of the bed by a person. Preferably, when the moveable extension member is in the second position, the moveable extension member is stowed by the mattress supporting part. For example, when the moveable extension member comprises a plate, the plate may be stowed between the mattress supporting part and mattress.

Suitably, the mattress supporting part may be dimensioned so that the bed can accommodate a single person or two persons, preferably in a substantially horizontal recumbent position.

Suitably, when the bed is designed to accommodate a single person, the mattress supporting part typically has a maximum length (i.e. the length not measured in a direction towards a chamfered region) of 6 foot 3 inches and a maximum width (i.e. the width not measured in a direction towards a chamfered region) of 3 foot. A minimum length of the bed measured in a direction towards the chamfered region(s), when the extendable extension member is in the second position, is typically less than 6 foot 3 inches, typically from 5 foot 3 inches to 6 foot, especially from 5 foot 6 inches to 5 foot 10 inches. A minimum width of the bed measured in a direction towards the chamfered region(s), when the extendable extension member is in the second position, is typically less than 3 foot, preferably less than or equal to 2 foot 9 inches.

Suitably, when the bed is designed to accommodate two persons, the mattress supporting part typically has a maximum length (i.e. the length not measured in a direction towards a chamfered region) of 6 foot 3 inches and a maximum width (i.e. the width not measured in a direction towards a chamfered region) of from 4 foot to 4 foot six inches. A minimum length of the bed measured in a direction towards the chamfered region(s), when the extendable extension member is in the second position, is typically less than 6 foot 3 inches, typically from 5 foot 3 inches to 6 foot, especially from 5 foot 6 inches to 5 foot 10 inches. A minimum width of the bed measured in a direction towards the chamfered region(s), when the extendable extension member is in the second position, is typically less than 4 foot six inches, preferably less than or equal to 4 foot.

Suitably, the mattress is dimensioned and configured so that the mattress cooperates with substantially the entire mattress supporting part.

According to a second aspect, the invention provides a bed and mattress arrangement comprising a bed of the first aspect and a mattress supported by the mattress supporting part of said bcd. Suitably, thc bcd and mattress arrangement further include a mattress part for supporting on said moveable extension member of the bed when the extension member is in the first position. Suitably, the mattress is dimensioned and configured to cooperate with substantially the entire mattress supporting part. Suitably, the mattress part is dimensioned and configured to cooperate with the moveable extension member.

Preferably, the mattress and mattress part are not integrally formed, but an integrally formed mattress and mattress part is considered within the scope of the invention. Suitably, the upper surface of the mattress part is in a substantially coplanar relationship with the upper surface of the mattress, thereby providing a substantially horizontal planar mattress combination.

According to third aspect, the invention provides a mobile sleeping unit comprising a bed, as defined according to the first aspect of the invention, or a bed and mattress arrangement, as defined according to a second aspect of the invention. Suitably, the bed or bed and mattress arrangement is located within the interior of the mobile sleeping unit. Preferably, the bed or bed mattress arrangement is fixed within the interior of the mobile sleeping unit.

Suitably, the mobile sleeping unit comprises: a mobile home, such as a motor home, caravan, or camper van; a land vehicle including a bed, such as a coach, rail way carriage or truck; an aircraft including a bed, such as an aeroplane; or, a watercraft including a bed, such as a boat, ship, yacht, river cruiser. Preferably, the mobile sleeping unit comprises a mobile home, more preferably a motor home, caravan, or camper van, most preferably a motor home.

Suitably, the bed or bed and mattress arrangement may be arranged as an island arrangement, as a transverse arrangement (i.e. the longest length of the bed is positioned against the transversely extending, preferably rear, interior wall of the sleeping unit so that the perimeter access space of the mattress supporting part faces towards the interior of the unit), or as a longitudinal arrangement relative to the interior of the mobile sleeping unit. Preferably, the bed is arranged in longitudinal arrangement relative to the interior of the mobile sleeping unit so that the perimeter access space of the mattress supporting part faces towards the interior of the unit i.e. the longest length of the bed is positioned against the longitudinally extending interior wall of the mobile sleeping unit.

Suitably, the mobile sleeping unit may include more than one bed or bed and mattress arrangement. The bed may be dimensioned to accommodate a single person, preferably a single person in a substantially recumbent position. Preferably, the mobile sleeping unit includes a bed which is dimensioned to accommodate 2 persons, preferably 2 persons each in a substantially recumbent position.

Other optional and preferred features of the invention are set out in the dependent claims, and the description, below. The features of one aspect of the invention can be combined in any complimentary manner, with one or more features of another aspect of the invention, the dependent claims, and/or with one or more features of the description, where such a combination of features would provide a working embodiment of the invention.

An embodiment of the bed for a mobile sleeping unit, in accordance with the invention will now be described, by way of the following non-limiting examples, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which, Figure 1 is a perspective view from above of a bed in accordance with an embodiment of the invention wherein the moveable extension member is in the first (extended) position; Figure 2 is a perspective view from above of the bed of Figure 1 wherein the moveable extension member is in the second (non-extended) position; Figure 3 is a perspective view from above of the moveable extension member of the bed of Figure 1; Figure 4 is a perspective side view of a bed and mattress arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the invention comprising a bed including a mattress and wherein the moveable extension member is in the second (non-extended) position; Figure 5 is a perspective side view of a bed and mattress arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the invention comprising a bed including a mattress and wherein the moveable extension member is in the first (extended) position; Figure 6 is a perspective side view of a bed and mattress arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the invention comprising a bed wherein the moveable extension member is in the first (extended) position, the bed including a mattress and a mattress part; Figure 7 is a perspective side view of a mattress part as used in the bed and mattress arrangement of Figure 6.

Figure 8 is a top plan view of the mattress supporting part of the bed of Figures 1, 2, 4 and 6; Figure 9 is a perspective view from above of a bed in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the invention wherein the moveable extension member is in the second (non-extended) position, Figure 10 is a perspective view from above of the bed of Figure 9 wherein the moveable extension member is in the first (extended) position; Figure 11 is a top plan view of the mattress supporting part of the bed of Figures 9 and 10; Figure 12 is a perspective view from above of a bed in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention wherein the moveable extension member is in the second (non-extended) position, Figure 13 is a top plan view of the mattress supporting part of the bed of Figure 12; Figure 14 is a perspective view from above of a bed in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention wherein the moveable extension member is in the second (non-extended) position; and, Figure 15 is a top plan view of the mattress supporting part of the bed of Figure 14.

A bed 10 for a mobile sleeping unit is shown in Figures 1, 2, 9, 10, 12 and 14. The bed 10 including a mattress 50 is shown in Figures 4 and 5, and the bed 10 including a mattress 50 and mattress part 60 is shown in Figure 6 The interior walls 70,72 of the mobile sleeping unit 75 as shown in Figures 1, 2,4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12 and 14 are not part of the bed 10 per se.

The bed 10 comprises a mattress supporting part 12 (as shown in Figures 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12 and 14) for supporting a mattress 50 in a substantially horizontal orientation relative to the length and width of the mattress, i.e. in a substantially horizontal theoretical plane extending through and along the X axis of the mattress (as shown in Figures 4, 5 and 6) and a moveable extension member 30 (as shown in Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8 to 15) adapted for supporting a mattress part 60 (as shown in Figure 6).

The parts mentioned in the preceding paragraph will now be looked at in more detail.

As shown in Figures 1, 2, 9, 10, 12 and 14, the mattress supporting part 12 comprises a 30 frame 14 and base 16. The frame 14 and base 16 may form an integrated structure so that the frame 14 is not separable from the base 16. Alternatively, the frame 14 and base 16 may be separable from each other.

As shown in Figures 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 9 and 10, the mattress supporting part 12 is orientated in a longitudinal relationship with respect to the interior of the mobile sleeping unit 75 so that the longest length of the frame 80 is positioned against the longitudinally extending interior wall 72 of the sleeping unit 75. The exterior perimeter access space 28 defined by the mattress supporting part being located towards the interior of the sleeping unit 75.

As shown in Figures 12 and 14, the mattress supporting part 12 is orientated in a transverse relationship with respect to the interior of the mobile sleeping unit 75 so that the longest width 88 of the frame 12 is positioned against an interior wall 70,72, preferably the rear wall, of the sleeping unit 75 and length of the frame 90 extends into the interior of the sleeping unit 75.

Suitably, the bed 10 as shown in Figures 1, 2, 9, 10, 12 and 14 is dimensioned to allow 2 persons to lie on the bed in a horizontal recumbent position Accordingly, the mattress 50 (as shown in Figures 4, 5 and 6) is dimensioned to allow 2 persons to lie on the mattress 50 in a horizontal recumbent position. The mattress 50 cooperates with the entire mattress supporting part 12.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the mattress supporting part 12 has a maximum length (i.e. when measured along the longest length of the frame 80) of 6 foot 3 inches. Suitably, the mattress supporting part has a maximum width (i.e. when measured along the widest width of the frame 82) of 4 foot 6 inches. Suitably, the length of the mattress supporting part 12 measured in a direction towards the chamfered region 26, as described hereinafter, (i.e. when measured along the shortest length of the frame 84) being substantially less than 6 foot 3 inches, approximately from between 5 foot 3 inches to 5 foot 9 inches in length. Suitably, the width of the mattress supporting part 12 measured in a direction towards the chamfered region 26, as described hereinafter, (i.e. when measured along the shortest width of the frame 86) being substantially less than 4 foot 6 inches, approximately from between 3 foot 6 inches to 4 foot in width.

As shown in Figures 1, 2, 9, 10, 12 and 14, the frame includes one or more mattress supporting member(s) 18. The one or more mattress supporting member(s) 18 comprises a plurality of slats 20 extending horizontally across the frame 14 (shown in Figures 1, 2, 9, 10, 12 and 14). Alternatively, the one or more mattress supporting member(s) 18 may include a rigid or semi-rigid sheet material extending across the frame 14. The mattress supporting part 12 may be constructed from a material suitable for forming a bed, such as wood and/or metal.

The mattress supporting part 12 has an outwardly facing perimeter side wall 22 (as shown in Figures 1, 2, 9, 10, 12 and 14). The outwardly facing perimeter side wall 22 extends downwardly and substantially vertically relative to the mattress supporting part 12 and relative to a mattress 50 supported by the mattress supporting part 12 (as shown in Figures 4, 5 and 6). The outwardly facing perimeter side wall 22 includes an outwardly facing side wall face 24. As shown in Figures 1, 2, 4, 5, 6 and 14 the outwardly facing perimeter side wall face 24 is substantially planar.

As shown in Figures 1, 2 and 4, the outwardly facing perimeter side wall 22 includes a chamfered region 26 located at a corner 25 of the mattress supporting part 12. The chamfered region 26 defines a perimeter access space 28 (as shown by dashed region in Figures 2 and 4) located exterior of the outwardly facing perimeter side wall 22 and the outer perimeter side wall face 24. As shown in Figures 2 and 4, the perimeter access space 28 allows enhanced ease of access around the mattress supporting part 12 and bed 10 by a person, when the moveable extension member 30 is positioned so that the extension member 30 does not extend in the region of, especially does not extend across, the perimeter access space 28 (i.e. when the bed is not in use).

As is shown in Figure 8, when the mattress supporting part 12, as shown in Figures 1, 2,4, 5 and 6, is viewed in top plan view in a direction along the Y-axis of the mattress supporting part 12 (and the Y axis of a mattress 50 supported by the mattress supporting part 12) (as shown in Figures 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6), the profile of the outwardly facing perimeter side wall 22 at the chamfered region 26 is a substantially linear angled profile. The outwardly facing perimeter side wall face 24 of the chamfered region 26 has a substantially planar face (as shown in Figures 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6). Suitably, when the mattress supporting part 12 is viewed in a direction along the Y-axis of the mattress supporting part 12 (i.e. top plan view), the mattress supporting part 12 has a substantially rectangular shaped profile having a chamfered corner section 25 comprising a linear angled profile (i.e. a polygon shaped profile having 5 straight line sides).

As shown in Figures 1 to 6, 9, 10, 12 and 14, the moveable extension member 30 comprises a plate 32 dimensioned and configured for supporting a mattress part 60 thereon in a substantially horizontal orientation relative to the length and width of the mattress part 60, i.e. in a substantially horizontal theoretical plane passing through the X axis of the mattress part (as shown in Figures 6 and 7). The upper surface of the mattress part 60 being aligned in a substantially coplanar relationship with the upper surface of the mattress 50. The plate 32 includes a plurality of channels 34 extending therethrough to allow air to circulate through the plate 32 (as shown in Figures 1, 2, 3, 5, 9, 10, 12 and 14). The plate 32 further includes an upwardly extending retaining member 36 located at the perimeter of the plate 32 in the form of a side rail to retain the mattress part 60 on the plate 32.

As is shown in Figures 1 and 2, the moveable extension member 30 in the form of plate 32 is pivotally engaged with respect to the mattress supporting part 12 at pivot joint 38. The pivot joint 38 allows the moveable extension member 30 to rotate relative to the mattress supporting part 12. The pivot joint 38 may comprises any suitable pivot mechanical engagement means, for example, a shaft extending through the plate 32 and engaging the mattress supporting part 12.

As is shown in Figures 4, 5, 9, 10, 12 and 14 the moveable extension member 30 in the form of plate 32 is slideably engaged with respect to the mattress supporting part 12. Slideable engagement between the moveable extension member 30 and mattress supporting part 12 may be achieved by use of mechanical engagement means, such as a rail on the mattress supporting part 12 which cooperates and engages with the sides of plate 32. Alternatively, slideable engagement between the moveable extension member 30 and mattress supporting part 12 may be achieved by use of mattress 50 resting on the plate 32 (as shown in Figures 4 and 5). It will be appreciated, and as apparent from the latter arrangement, that the moveable extension member (e.g. plate) may be independently slideably moveable relative to the length of the mattress supporting part and independently slideably moveable relative to the width of the mattress supporting part.

Suitably, the moveable extension member 30 may be positioned so that the extension member 30 does not extend in the region of, especially does not extend across, the perimeter access space 28, when the bed is not in use, thereby enhancing ease of access around the mattress supporting part 12 and bed 10 (as shown in Figures 2, 4, 9, 12 and 14). The bed may include a mattress 50 which is dimensioned and configured so that it cooperates substantially with the entire mattress supporting part 12 when the bed is not in use (as shown in Figure 4), i.e. when the moveable extension member 30 is positioned so that the extension member does not extend in the region of the perimeter access space 28. Conveniently, this arrangement permits the bed 10 to remain made up (e.g. including sheets and coverings) when not in use and ready for sleeping.

At night time, the moveable extension member 30 is extended and positioned so that the extension member 30 extends in the region of, especially across, the perimeter access space 28 (as shown in Figures 1, 5 and 10), thereby extending the width and length of the mattress supporting part 12. The moveable extension member 30 can receive and support a mattress part 60 thereby providing a full sized bed for sleeping (as shown in Figure 6). Conveniently, as the bed is essentially already made up when not in use, it is only necessary to extend the coverings and sheets over the mattress part at night time.

Further embodiments of the mattress supporting part are shown in Figures 9 to 15.

As shown in Figure 9, the mattress supporting part 12 includes a single chamfered region 26 located at a comer 25 of the mattress supporting part 12. The outwardly facing perimeter side wall face 24 of the chamfered region 26 is curved. When the mattress supporting part 12 is viewed in top plan view in a direction along the Y-axis of the mattress supporting part 12 (and the Y axis of a mattress 50 supported by the mattress supporting part 12) (as shown in Figure 9), the profile of the outwardly facing perimeter side wall 22 at the chamfered region 26 has a substantially convex shaped profile (as shown in Figure 11). Suitably, when the mattress supporting part 12 is viewed in a direction along the Y-axis of the mattress supporting part 12, the mattress supporting part 12 has a substantially rectangular shaped profile having a chamfered corner section 25 comprising convex shaped profile (i.e. a polygon shaped profile having 4 straight line sides and a single curved side). Figure 10 shows the bed of Figure 9 where the slideably moveable extension member 30 is in an extended position so that the width and length of the mattress supporting part 12 is extended.

As shown in Figure 12, the mattress supporting part 12 includes a first and second chamfered region 26, 27 located at a first and second adjacent comer of the mattress supporting part 12, thereby providing first and second perimeter access spaces 28, 29.

The outwardly facing perimeter side wall face 24 of each chamfered region 26, 27 is curved. When the mattress supporting part 12 is viewed in top plan view in a direction along the Y-axis of the mattress supporting part 12 (and the Y axis of a mattress 50 supported by the mattress supporting part 12) (as shown in Figure 12), the profile of the outwardly facing perimeter side wall 22 of each chamfered region 26, 27 has a substantially convex shaped profile (as shown in Figure 13). Suitably, when the mattress supporting part 12 is viewed in a direction along the Y-axis of the mattress supporting part 12, the mattress supporting part 12 has a substantially rectangular shaped profile having two chamfered corner sections comprising convex shaped profiles and defining first and second perimeter access spaces (i.e. a polygon shaped profile having 4 straight line sides and two curved sides). Suitably, such an arrangement is suitable when the bed 10 is positioned as an island bed in a mobile sleeping unit.

As shown in Figure 14, the mattress supporting part 12 includes a first and second chamfered region 26, 27 located at a first and second adjacent corners of the mattress supporting part 12 thereby defining first and second perimeter access spaces 28, 29 The outwardly facing perimeter side wall face 24 of each chamfered region 26, 27 is planar. When the mattress supporting part 12 is viewed in top plan view in a direction along the Y-axis of the mattress supporting part 12 (and the Y axis of a mattress 50 supported by the mattress supporting part 12) (as shown in Figure 9), the profile of the outwardly facing perimeter side wall 22 of each chamfered region 26, 27 has a substantially linear angled profile (as shown in Figure 15). Suitably, when the mattress supporting part 12 is viewed in a direction along the Y-axis of the mattress supporting part 12, the mattress supporting part 12 has a substantially rectangular shaped profile having two chamfered corner sections comprising linear angled shaped profiles (i.e. a polygon shaped profile having 6 straight line sides). Suitably, such an arrangement is suitable when the bed 10 is positioned as an island bed in a mobile sleeping unit.

Suitably, each of moveable extension members 30 are independently slideably moveable relative to the length and independently slideably moveable relative to the width of the mattress supporting part 12.

Claims

C LA I NIS1. A bed for a mobile sleeping unit, the bed comprising: a mattress supporting part adapted to support a mattress in a substantially horizontal theoretical plane extending along the longitudinal axis of the mattress, the perimeter of the mattress supporting part having an outwardly facing perimeter side wall, the outwardly facing perimeter side wall comprising at least one chamfered region defining a perimeter access space exterior to said outwardly facing perimeter side wall to allow enhanced ease of access around the perimeter of the mattress supporting part by a person; a moveable extension member associated with the mattress supporting part to permit extension of the mattress supporting part in the region of said perimeter access space defined by said chamfered region(s), wherein the moveable extension member is adapted to support a mattress part in a substantially horizontal theoretical plane extending along the longitudinal axis of the mattress part, the moveable extension member having a first position to enable extension of the mattress supporting part in the region of said perimeter access space and to allow a mattress part to be supported in said substantially horizontal position across said perimeter access space by said moveable extension member, and the moveable extension member having a second position so that extension of the mattress supporting part in the region of said perimeter access space is prevented and to allow access to said perimeter access space by a person and permit enhanced ease of access around the perimeter of the mattress supporting part.
2. A bed as claimed in claim 1, wherein the moveable extension member is moveable relative to the mattress supporting part to permit independent adjustment of the length of the mattress supporting part and independent adjustment of the width of the mattress supporting part.
A bed as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the moveable extension member is slideably moveable relative to the length and/or width of the mattress supporting part, preferably independently slideably moveable relative to the length and relative to the width of the mattress supporting part.
4. A bed as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the moveable extension member comprises a plate for supporting the mattress part.
5. A bed as claimed in claim 4, wherein the plate includes a plurality of channels extending therethrough.
6. A bed as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the moveable extension member includes a retention member, preferably an upwardly extending retention member, for retaining the mattress part on the extension member.
7. A bed as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the moveable extension member is separable from and does not form an integrated part of the mattress supporting part.
8. A bed as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the moveable extension member and the mattress part do not form an integrated structure.
9. A bed as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the moveable extension member when in the first position extends across and/or adjacent to said perimeter access space(s), preferably across substantially the entire perimeter access space(s).
10. A bed as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the moveable extension member is adapted and configured to allow a separate mattress part to be supported by said moveable extension member when in the first position whereby an upper surface of the separate mattress part is in a substantially coplanar orientation with respect to an upper surface of a mattress supported by the mattress supporting part
11. A bed as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the moveable extension member when in the second position does not extend in the region of said perimeter access space(s)
12. A bed as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one chamfered region comprises an outwardly facing perimeter side wall region having an outwardly facing side wall face, said side wall face having a curve, preferably a convex, contoured face.
13. A bed as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one chamfered region comprises an outwardly facing perimeter side wall region, wherein the profile of said outer perimeter side wall region, when said mattress supporting part is viewed in top plan view, is a substantially curved, preferably a substantially concave or convex, more preferably convex, profile.
14. A bed as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein said at least one chamfered region comprises an outwardly facing perimeter side wall region having an outwardly facing side wall face, said side wall face having a substantially planar face.
15. A bed as claimed in claim 1 or 14, wherein said at least one chamfered region comprises an outwardly facing perimeter side wall region, wherein the profile of said outer perimeter side wall region, when said mattress supporting part is viewed in top plan view, is a substantially linear, preferably a substantially linear angled, profile.
16. A bed as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mattress supporting part when viewed in top plan view comprises a substantially polygon shaped profile having 3 or more, preferably 3 to 6, especially 4 or 5, straight line sides.
17. A bed as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mattress supporting when viewed in top plan view comprises a substantially rectangular or square shaped profile including said at least one chamfered region(s) at one or more corner(s) of said rectangular or square shaped profile.
18. A bed as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mattress supporting part comprises a single chamfered region
19. A bed as claimed in claim 17, wherein the mattress supporting part comprises a substantially rectangular profile, when said mattress supporting part is viewed in top plan view, and said single chamfered region is located at one corner of said rectangular profile to provide a chamfered corner to said rectangular profile.
20. A bed as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the mattress supporting part comprises a first chamfered region defining a first perimeter access space and a second chamfered region defining a second perimeter access space.
21. A bed as claimed in claim 20, wherein the mattress supporting part comprises a substantially rectangular or square profile, when the mattress supporting part is viewed in top plan view, and said first and second chamfered regions are located at adjacent first and second corners of said rectangular or square profile to provide adjacent chamfered corners to said rectangular or square profile
22. A bed and mattress arrangement comprising a bed as claimed in any one of the preceding claims and a mattress and/or a mattress supporting part.
23. A bed and mattress arrangement as claimed in claim 22, wherein the mattress is dimensioned and configured to cooperate with substantially the entire mattress supporting part so that the mattress is supported in a substantially horizontal theoretical plane extending along the longitudinal axis of the mattress when said moveable extension member is in the second position.
24. A mobile sleeping unit comprising a bed as claimed in any one claims 1 to 21 or bed and mattress arrangement as claimed in claim 22 or 23.
25. A mobile sleeping unit as claimed in claim 24, wherein the mobile sleeping unit comprises a mobile home, preferably a caravan, motor home or camper van.
26. A mobile sleeping unit as claimed in claim 24 or 25, wherein the bed forms an integrated part of the interior of the mobile sleeping unit, preferably the bed is positioned longitudinally relative to the interior of the sleeping unit and against an interior wall of the sleeping unit so that the chamfered region(s) face toward the interior of the sleeping unit.