MXPA00003295A

MXPA00003295A - Mattress structure

Info

Publication number: MXPA00003295A
Application number: MXPA/A/2000/003295A
Authority: MX
Inventors: A Reeder Ryan; R Stolpmann James; D Dalton Roger; R Westerfeld Steven
Original assignee: Patmark Company Inc
Priority date: 1997-10-09
Filing date: 2000-04-04
Publication date: 2001-05-07

Abstract

A matress (52) having a plurality of mattress structure components is provided. The components can be selectively assembled to provide a customized mattress structure that accomodates the musculoskeletal condition and interface pressure preference of the user. The mattress structure components include a perimetral foam frame (74) having a central opening (82). The mattress structure components additionnally include a plurality of cores (88) for filling the central opening (82). The cores (88) can alternatively include either a set of zone foam blocks (92), a sculptured foam core (94), an air bladder (96), or a combination thereof to provide a variety of firmness and support characteristics. A topper (86) covers the frame (74), the central opening (82), and the selected cores (88) therein. The topper (86) can be made from foam rubber and can include air bladders, water bladders, or bladders for containing other fluids to provide a variety of firmness and support characteristics.

Description

MATTRESS STRUCTURE Background and Brief Description of the Invention The present invention relates to bed and mattress structures more particularly to mattress structures that can be customized for individual users. The mattress of the present invention can be distributed to the user in a variety of forms assembled from equipment provided at the point of sale to suit the user's musculoskeletal condition. The mattress can also be customized at the factory or at some other location of the assembly different from the point of sale based on the reaction of the customer to a test mattress used at the point of sale. It is well known to provide foam support pads or mattresses to support a user reclining on the pad. For example, U.S. Patent Nos. 4,879,776; 5,038,433; 5,077,849, 5,111,542, and 5,172,439 all of Farley, describe mattress pads and linings for supporting a user. In addition, U.S. Patent Nos. 4,449,261 to Magnusson and 4,991,244 REF; Walker 119043 describes mattress edges for receiving core mattresses, and U.S. Patent No. 5,105,488 to Hutchinson et al .; U.S. Patent No. 4,803,744 to Peck et al .; and U.S. Patent Nos. 4,424,600 and 4,435,864 to Calla, and describe their support surfaces having selectively adjustable firmness. A mattress structure according to the present invention is suitable for use with a conventional mattress placed to be in an articulation bureau. The conventional mattress includes a head portion for supporting the shoulder blade and the lumbar region of a portion of the buttocks to support the user's sacrum, a portion of the thigh to support the user's thighs, and a portion for the feet. Each named mattress portion is associated respectively with the head, buttocks, thighs, and feet of the person resting on the surface to sleep in the bed as well as with the sections for the head, buttocks, thighs and feet, underlying the bureau. The mattress additionally includes a mattress cover that has a mattress top cover and a mattress bottom cover attached to the mattress top cover. The covers of the bottom and upper part of the mattress define a mattress interior that receives a plurality of mattress structure components. The bottom cover can be placed on a surface and used as a template to build the mattress with a "bottom-up" mounting technique by placing the components on the bottom of the mattress on top of the bottom cover and building on the same the other components. The top cover can also be placed to facilitate a "top-down" assembly by starting with the top cover and first adding the components on the top of the mattress to the top cover and building the other components in it. The mattress structure components include a framework made of a relatively firm foam rubber such as a urethane, high density, high resilience foam. The frame is generally placed along the perimeter of the mattress. The use of a relatively firm foam provides support features that help the user as he enters and exits towards a surface to sleep and stay on top of the mattress and prevents the user from falling off the sleeping surface. The frame is formed to include a central opening below the sleeping surface above which the user will rest. A plurality of cores that include an air bladder, "zone foam" elements, "sculpted foams" formed from foam blocks, and combinations thereof are provided to fill the central opening. The cores are selected to personalize the firmness, support and characteristics of interfacial pressure, to satisfy the individual desires of each user. To personalize the mattress in a way that requires consideration of the combination of each of the weight, height, body type, weight distribution, health condition and preferences of the individual. The preferred method for customizing the mattress begins when a potential user completes a questionnaire to assist in the analysis of the user's "dream profile". The sleep profile assesses factors such as general health and user's sleep habits. A recommendation of firmness is computed either as a function of a pressure for several zones of a "test mattress" containing an air bladder or- terms of a type of foam density for each zone. In addition, a surface recommendation is established based on the user's responses to a surface recommendation questionnaire. Once the surface and hardness recommendations are established, the user is on a test sleep surface containing an air bladder that is pressurized to correspond to the firmness recommendation. Then the air bladder areas are adjusted to correspond to the user's preferences and the resulting, preferred firmness readings are recorded. An algorithm has been developed that translates the preferred firmness readings into a custom bed configuration. For example, the preferred firmness reading can be translated to establish the foam density which, if incorporated into a mattress, will provide the firmness characteristics and supports similar to those provided by the test sleep surface having the firmness readings preferred. Once the customized bed configuration is established, a mattress can be assembled from a computer at the point of sale containing the plurality of cores for the user, to test and verify that the mattress satisfies his preferences. If the mattress is satisfactory, it can be adjusted at the point of sale. Once the user is satisfied, he can immediately take possession of the personalized mattress, complete, if desired. In the alternative, once the customized bed configuration has been established, the data describing this configuration can be transmitted to a factory in which the mattress is mounted for distribution to the user. The mattress structure according to the present invention can be made in a size for a single bed, a double bed, an extra-large bed or an extra-size bed. When the mattress is made one size for extra-large and extra-sized beds, both sides of the mattress can be individually customized if desired to provide the firmness and support characteristics desired by individual sleep partners by customizing the mattress. Top to provide the desired firmness and support for each side of the bed. In this "side by side" personalization, the core in the upper parts that support each user in the separate halves of the mattress are distinct and separate. Having different and separate cores and upper parts, personalization is facilitated, as it also serves to minimize the transmission of movement from one half of the mattress to the other when one of the sleeping partners moves. As will be discussed in more detail later in the specification, the mattress structure can be provided with an air bladder adjacent to a foam block that can be selectively adjusted by the user to provide varying firmness and support characteristics. If the same mattress is used on a bed that has an articulation bureau, the mattress can be provided with a user-friendly controller that controls the adjustment of both the position of the bladder and the bladder. Include a "memory adjustment" feature that allows the user to set the preferred settings of the bureau and mattress combination., the user may desire a first set of support features in a pre-selected area of the mattress when the mattress is in a sleeping position, generally flat. The user can set this feature set as the first memory setting. The user may also desire a different set of support features in that area of the mattress when the bureau is placed in a reclining position away from the sleeping position, generally flat. If the user establishes this second set of characteristics as the second memory setting, the user can automatically move the bed and mattress structure to any of the first or second set of features at the push of a button. Of course, even with these memory settings set, the user can move the bed and mattress to other positions as desired. In addition, the mattress structure can be provided with combinations of air bladders, zone foam elements, and sculpted foam to produce a "combination mattress". For example, the mattress structure can be provided having an air bladder that supports the shoulder blade, foam that supports the lumbar region, an air bladder in the portion of the buttocks supporting the sacrum, and the foam that supports the thighs and legs. If desired, the air bladder can be in communication for fluids so that they are inflated and deflated at the same time and at the same pressures or the air bladders can be independent from each other and independently controlled by the user so that the The user can establish different support and firmness characteristics for each one of the scapula and the sacrum. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a mattress structure that can be customized at the point of sale to suit the musculoskeletal condition and the user's interfacial pressure preference is provided. The mattress structure includes a frame defining a central opening and a foam core that is positioned to be within the central opening of the frame. The foam core comprises a block of foam at the head end, a block of foam at the foot end, and a block of foam for the soles placed to be between the blocks of foam for the head and for the feet . Each of the foam blocks has an upper side and a bottom side, opposite. The mattress structure further comprises a first block having a first block firmness and positioned to be between the foam block of the head end and the foam block of the butts and the second block having a second block firmness. and placed to be between the foam block of the end for the feet and the foam block for the buttocks. The second block firmness is different from the first block firmness and can be pre-selected by the user. Additionally, the mattress comprises a first cover having a first cover firmness and formed for extension through the frame and between the foam blocks at the end of the head and the end of the feet and a second cover having a second firmness Coated and formed for extension through an opposite side of the frame between the foam blocks of the head end and the foot end. The second shell firmness is different than the first shell firmness to provide the user with a plurality of firmness configurations. In another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a mattress core comprising a frame defining an interior region and having a top end and an opposite pole end, and a first and a second cover. The first cover engages the upper end of the side wall and has a first cover firmness. The second cover engages the bottom end of the side wall and has a second cover firmness that is greater than the first deck firmness. The mattress core further comprises a seat support section positioned to be within the interior region, a first block of foam, and a second block of foam. The support region of the butts has an upper side that faces the first deck, and a side of the opposite bottom that faces the second deck, and opposite walls that extend between the upper sides of the bottom. The first foam block is positioned to be adjacent to one side of the support section for the buttocks and has a first core firmness and the second foam block is placed to be adjacent to the opposite side of the support section for the buttocks and it has a second core firmness that is different from the first core firmness. - In yet another embodiment of the present invention there is provided a mattress comprising a frame defining an interior region, a one-piece inflatable bladder positioned to be within the interior region of the frame, and a plurality of foam blocks. The foam blocks are placed to be in the inflatable bladder within the interior region of the frame. In addition, the foam blocks are configured to move the inflatable bladder relative to one another. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a mattress comprising a frame including a section of the head end, an end section for the opposite feet and sides extending between the head end section and the head section. end section for the feet and defines an interior region between these and the plurality of foam blocks placed to be within the interior region of the frame. The foam blocks include opposite ends that are coupled to opposite sides of the frame by an adhesive placed to be between the frame and the blocks. Additionally, in another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a mattress comprising a frame defining the interior region, a plurality of foam blocks positioned to be within the interior region of the frame, an inflatable bladder positioned to be adjacent to one. of the foam blocks. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a mechanism is provided for attaching to the top of a pillow in a mattress. The attachment mechanism comprises an upper pillow handle coupled to the pillow top, a mattress handle coupled to the mattress vertically adjacent the upper pillow handle, and a strap. The handle of the pillow upper includes opposite ends and a portion of the handle that extends between the opposite ends and defines a holding opening. The mattress handle includes opposite ends and a handle portion that extends between the opposite ends and defines a holding opening. The chorea is made of a size for extension through the fastening openings in the upper part of the pillow and the mattress magnets include opposite ends and a fixing mechanism thereon. The locking mechanism is configured to couple the opposite ends of the strap together. In accordance with the present invention, a pillow top assembly suitable for being on the top cover of the mattress is provided, so that the top pillow mount is configured to be between the mattress and a user resting on the mattress. The mattress The upper pillow assembly comprises a first and a second layer of tissue and a series of blocks in zones between them The first layer of fabric has an outer side, an opposite inner side, an end for the head, and a end for the feet, opposite The second layer of tissue engages the first layer of fabric and has an outer side and an opposite inner side which cooperates with the inner side in the first layer of fabric to define an internal region therebetween. The series of blocks by zones is positioned to be within the inner region and is configured to extend between the end for the head and the end for the feet of the first layer of tissue. mode of the present invention, a pillow top assembly suitable for use in a top mattress cover is provided. The upper pillow assembly comprises a fabric lining and a series of blocks per zone. The fabric liner includes an upper layer, a bottom layer separated from the upper layer to define an inner region _ among these, one end for the head, and one opposite end for the feet. The series of blocks per zone is positioned to be within the interior region and extends between the ends for the head and for the feet of the fabric lining. Each of the blocks per zone in the series has a first end and a second opposite end and the second end of the first block by zones in the series is movably coupled to the first end of the adjacent block by zones in the series. According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, a pillow top assembly is provided for the use of a mattress. The pillow top assembly includes a woven lining and a series of blocks by zones. The fabric liner includes an upper layer having a first thermal resistance and a bottom layer separated from the upper layer to define an inner region therebetween and having a second thermal resistance that is greater than the first thermal resistance of the upper layer , one end for the head, and one opposite end for the feet. The series of blocks per zone are positioned to be within the outer regions to extend between the head end and the foot end of the tear-off liner. The objects, features and further advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments exemplifying the best mode for carrying out the invention as it is currently perceived.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The detailed description refers in particular to the appended figures in which. Figure 1 (a) is a perspective view with separation of parts of a mattress according to the present invention showing a bottom cover placed below a foam bottom and a frame, a plurality of cores that can be received above the bottom of the foam in a central opening forms in the frame, the plurality of cores that include either a sculpted foam core, extending transversely in the foam blocks by zones, an air bladder or- a combination of these, the mattress that also includes a foam top placed to be above the frame and the core, a top cover that surrounds the top, the frame, and the foam bottom, the top cover, which includes a half zipper attaching another half zip on the bottom cover to attach the top cover to it, and a pillow top attached to the top of the top cover; Figure 1 (b) is a view similar to Figure 1 (a) showing a mattress including a core having a combination of foam blocks by zones and air bladders with foam blocks by zones placed to support the lumbar region of the user's back and thighs and legs of the user and air bladders placed to support other portions of the user; Figure 1 (c) is a view similar to Figure 1 (b) showing a mattress that includes a core having a combination of foam blocks by zones with air bladders placed to support the lumbar region of the user's back and the user's thighs and foam blocks by zones placed to support other portions of the user; Figure 2 is a perspective view with parts of a mattress of extra size similar to the mattress of Figure 1 (a) showing the bottom cover, the foam bottom, the frame, a foam divider received in the central opening of the central frame for dividing the central opening into two equal sized side openings, the plurality of cores that can alternatively be received in the two side openings, the extra size bed which also includes an upper part, the upper cover , and the pillow top; Figure 3 is a perspective view with separation of parts of a bed mattress structure according to the present invention including a mattress base and showing the mattress placed to be above the base and a pillow upper part placed to be above the mattress, the mattress that can be attached to the base by a pair of elongated hook and eye fasteners, attached to the base and the mattress at the foot end of the mattress, to allow relative longitudinal movement at one end for the mattress head and base during the articulation of the mattress and the base, the upper part of the pillow that is connected to the top cover of the mattress by a pair of elongated hook-and-eye fasteners attached to an upper cover of the mattress. mattress and attached to the top of the pillow the upper part of the pillow that is also attached to the mattress by a pair of elongated straps attached to the end for the head from the top cover of the mattress, to form longitudinal eyelets and short straps that are fed through the eyelets and attached to the top of the pillow, so that the head end of the top of the pillow can slide so longitudinal relative to the upper cover of the mattress, while generally maintaining a fixed transverse direction relative to the upper part of the pillow; Figure 4 is a schematic view of an articulation bureau for carrying the mattress according to the present invention showing the bureau moved to a position other than a sleeping position, generally flat; Figure 5 is a sectional, schematic view taken along line 5-5 of Figure 1 (a) showing a core of "sculpted foam resting on an articulation bureau of a bed, the bureau being in a sleeping position, generally flat, Figure 6 is a view similar to Figure 5 showing the bureau in a position having the head section raised to a raised up position, the section of the thighs raised slightly to a position lifted upwards, and the section of the feet elevated above and generally parallel to the section of the buttocks, cuts formed in the foam core sculpted on the surface opposite the folds that allow the sculpted foam core to adjust in general to the shape of the bureau, Figure 7 is a perspective view of the frame and the foam divider of Figure 2 showing the frame and rail of the foam divider moved by an articulation bureau (not shown). ado) to a position different from the generally flat sleeping position, cuts formed in the foam sections, sides of the frame on the opposite surface to the folds and cuts formed in the foam divider rail on the opposite surface to the folds allowing the frame and foam divider rail to generally conform to the shape of the bureau; Figure 8 (a) is a schematic bottom view of a "four-zone" air bladder and a supply of pressurized air with separate portions showing the voids or pockets formed in the air bladder by I-beams (not shown) attached to the interior of the air bladder, and showing each beam in I having first and second transverse ends, the first and second ends of a first set of I-beams are separated from the edge of the air bladder to form openings that allow the communication for fluid between the holes or bags, and a multiple tube schematic of the supply of pressurized air; Figure 8 (b) is a view similar to Figure 8 (a) of a four-zone air bladder in which areas of the air bladder that are not adjacent to each other are in fluid communication showing a rear zone upper in communication for fluids in a settling area through a first tube placed outside an inner region of the air bladder and a lower rear area in fluid communication with a foot area through a second tube placed outside of an inner region of the air bladder; Figure 9 is a schematic illustration of a sectional view taken along line 9-9 of Figure 8 (a) showing the four-zone air bladder having gaps separated by I-beams with I-beams. selected, defining the areas in the air bladder, the ends of a second set adhered to I that are sealedly coupled to the edge of the air bladder to separate the gaps or pouches adjacent to the I-beams to form separate zones and independently inflatable and deflatable air bladder; Figure 10 is a schematic view of a multiple valve tube for an air bladder of an area showing a line of compressed air, an exhaust line, an air line in fluid communication with the inner region of the bladder of air, and a transducer for transducing a pressure measurement to an electronic output signal; Figure 11 is a sectional, schematic view of the bladder taken along line 11-11 of Figure 8 (a) showing an inner region of the partially inflated air bladder that includes beams in height I in general uniform with an I-beam that is significantly higher than the remaining I-beams; Figure 12 is a view similar to Figure 11 showing the air bladder fully inflated so that the air bladder adjacent to the pockets or pouches defined by the significantly higher I beam protrudes above the adjacent air bladder to the other recesses or pockets so that the mattress adjacent to the protruding pockets or holes provide the user with additional support and firmness; Figure 13 is a sectional, schematic view taken along line 13-13 of Figure 8 (a) showing an inner region of the partially inflated air bladder including I-beams of generally uniform height with two beams in I that are significantly higher than the beams in I remaining; Figure 14 is a view similar to Figure 13 showing the air bladder fully inflated, so that the air bladder adjacent to the voids or pockets defined by the significantly higher I-beams protrude above the air bladder adjacent to the other recesses so that the mattress adjacent to the protruding recesses provides the user with additional support and firmness: Figure 15 is a view similar to Figure 9 showing the air bladder having a plurality of I-beams higher so that the air bladder adjacent to the gaps or pockets adjacent to the user's lumbar region, gaps adjacent to the wearer's thigh, and gaps adjacent to the wearer's ankles protrude above the air bladder adjacent to the other holes or bags, to provide the user with additional support and firmness near the portions of the mattress adjacent to the recesses or protruding or protruding pockets, and for provide release of additional pressure to the user's heels; Figure 16 is a view of the mattress of Figures 1 (a) and 2 showing an air supply that provides pressurized air to an air bladder within the mattress and to an enclosed channel, formed along the perimeter of the surface to sleep that gives up the mattress and an air heater interposed between the air supply and the channel, to heat the air received by the channel, a material that encloses the channel that is formed to include small openings to direct a small volume of air from the channel through the sleeping surface to heat or cool the user; Figure 17 is a perspective view of a arm rest according to the present invention; Figure 18 is a sectional view, taken along line 18-18 of Figure 17 showing a cover encircling the arm rest and showing a cup (dashed line) received in a cup holder formed in rest for arms; Figure 19 is a view similar to Figure 18 showing a bed having an articulated bureau moved to a position away from the generally flat sleeping position, a mattress received in the bureau, and arm rest in a first orientation; Figure 20 is a view similar to Figure 19 showing the bureau moved to a different position away from the sleeping position, generally flat, the mattress in the bureau and the arm rest in a second orientation; Figure 21 is a perspective view of the portable controller of Figure 16 to control the positions of the joint portions of the bed articulation bureau, to control * the air pressure in the four areas of the bladder, and pre-adjust in memory the air pressures selected by the user that correspond to the bureau positions selected by the user, so that by pressing an individual button, the bureau will adjust to the preselected position and the bladder will adjust the pressures in the four zones at the preselected pressures; Figure 22 is a plan view of a portion of the portable controller of Figure 21 showing the indications on the hand-held controller showing the "bed position buttons" at a first end, the buttons being arranged on a " frequency-of-use arrangement "having the most frequently used buttons, positioned to be adjacent to the first end, and the less frequently used buttons placed to be adjacent to the second end that is opposite the first end, and the remaining buttons placed to be between these, arranged in order of frequency of use with the most frequently used buttons that are placed closer to the first end than the buttons less frequently used; Figure 23 is a schematic block diagram illustrating the electrical components of a control system for controlling the characteristics of the bed and mattress structure according to the present invention; Figure 24 is a perspective view, with parts separation of an alternative embodiment of a mattress apparatus of the present invention, with separate portions showing a cushioned, upper panel, a cushioned panel, of the bottom, a frame defining a central opening placed between the upper and bottom cushioned panels, a mattress core placed in the central opening and including a block of the head end, a block of the end of the feet, and a block of buttocks, a first block of area having a first block firmness and positioned to be between the end block of the head and the block of the butts, and a second block of zone having a second block firmness and positioned to be between the end block of the feet and the block of the buttocks; Figure 25 is a perspective view with separate portions of the mattress apparatus of Figure 24 that is configured to accommodate two users, showing a first set of blocks and a second set of blocks positioned to be in a side-by-side relationship; Figure 25a is a cross-sectional view, taken along the line 25a-25a of Figure 25 showing an anti-tear coating placed on the first zone block and the setter block; Figure 26 is a perspective view with separate portions of an alternative embodiment of the present invention showing a mattress including a frame defining an interior opening, a bladder of a piece positioned to be in the interior opening, and a plurality of zone blocks placed to be in the bladder of a piece; Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view of the mattress of Figure 26 showing the mattress that includes a cushioned, lower panel and upper padding panel and showing the one-piece bladder resting on the lower padded panel and the blocks of area calocados to be between the bladder of a piece and the upper padded panel; Figure 28 is an enlarged, perspective view of a portion of a slide cover according to another embodiment of the present invention showing the slide cover including a top member, a bottom member, and a plurality of recesses or holes. bags that are separated by tissue separating regions, the gaps that are made of a size to receive the zone blocks in them; Figure 29 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 29-29 of Figure 28 after the insertion of the zone blocks into the recesses and showing the individual compression of the zone one blocks relative to the other; Figure 30 is a perspective view with part separation of an alternative embodiment of the present invention showing a liner, a frame, an upper part, a sleeve each including an upper cover, a bottom cover, a plurality of gaps between these defined by seams, and a slot formed in the top cover, and zone blocks made of a size for insertion through the slots in the sleeves of the sleeves: Figure 31 is a perspective view with separate portions of an alternative embodiment of the present invention showing a frame defining an interior region and including one end of the head, one end of the feet, and opposite sides extending between the end of the head and the end of the feet, a plurality of zone blocks placed to be inside the inner region, each of the blocks that include opposite ends coupled to the opposite sides of the frame by an adhesive; Figure 32 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 32-32 of Figure 31 showing a block of zones including an end coupled to the frame by an adhesive; Figure 33 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 33-33 of Figure 31 showing a sleeve positioned to be between the mattress zone blocks; Figure 34 is a perspective view with separate portions of an alternative embodiment of the present invention showing a frame defining an interior region and a block component positioned within the interior region, and the block component includes a zone block. and a bladder placed adjacent to the zone block to selectively increase or decrease the firmness of the zone block; Figure 35 is a perspective view with part separation of an alternative embodiment of the present invention showing a pillow top having a fabric lining with handles and a plurality of zone blocks positioned to be inside the liner, union mechanism and a base; Figure 35a is a perspective view with separation of parts of the upper part, mattress, base, and joining mechanism of Figure 35 showing a joining mechanism that includes a strap with hook and eye fasteners and the mattress that has a handle; Figure 35b is a cross-sectional view of the mattress, pillow top, and attachment mechanism of Figure 35a showing the strap extending through the handles of the pillow top and the mattress and engaging hook-and-eye fasteners on the base; Figure 35c is a perspective view of a sleeve which "receives the blocks of Figure 35 for use in an upper part according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention; Figure 36 is an enlarged view of a strap of the Figure 35b showing the strap including opposite ends with hook-and-eye fasteners, Figure 37 is a perspective view with parts separation of a bed according to yet another embodiment of the present invention showing the bed including a frame A plurality of zone foam blocks, a block of buttocks, a block of the lumbar region, an upper part and a pillow upper part, Figure 38 is a cross section taken along lines 38-38 of Figure 37 showing the block of buttocks that includes a thin top layer, a thick inner core, and a thin lower layer of different strengths, Figure 38a is a view similar to the Figur to 38 that shows the block of buttocks when the user is lying on the block to distribute the load through the block; Figure 38b is a view similar to Figure 38 showing the block of buttocks when the weight of the user is directed towards the core of the block of buttocks; Figure 39 is a cross section taken along lines 39-39 of Figure 37 showing the block of the lumbar region including a thick core-core and separate thin lateral layers of different firmness interspersing the central core between these; Figure 40 is a perspective view, with part separation having mattress structure according to yet another embodiment of the present invention showing the mattress structure including a liner, a plurality of zone blocks, an upper part, and a thin air chamber positioned to be between the zone blocks and the upper part; Figure 41 is a cross-section of the mattress structure of Figure 40 showing the air chamber including a plurality of interior supports and defining tube-type cavities therein; Figure 42 is a perspective view with part separation of a pillow top assembly according to the present invention shows the pillow top assembly positioned to be on the top surface of a mattress that includes a liner that it has a first and a second cover defining an interior region between these, a block of foam maintained within the interior region, and hands extending from the first cover for coupling with the mattress, to stop assembly on the mattress; Figure 43 is a cross-sectional view of the pillow top assembly of Figure 42 showing the first and second covers coupled together with the area biocaches placed between them and an anti-slip sheet placed to be between a the seat portion of the pillow top assembly and the mattress to prevent movement between the seat portion of the pillow top assembly and the mattress; Figure 44 is a view similar to Figure 42 of an alternate pillow top assembly according to the present invention showing the pillow top assembly including a liner defining an interior region, a series of blocks of zone keeping inside the inner region and mangoes that extend from the lining; Figure 45 is a cross-sectional view of a heat dispersion apparatus according to the present invention placed on a mattress and showing the heat dispersion apparatus which engages a heating element and which supports the top assembly of pillow of Figure 42; Figure 46 is a perspective view with part separation of a pillow top assembly according to the present invention showing a pillow top assembly positioned to be on a top of a mattress and including a liner having a first and a second layer defining a lower region between these and two series of zone blocks held within the lower region and showing an anti-skid material positioned to be between the upper pillow mount and the mattress; Figure 47 is a cross-section of the pillow top assembly of Figure 46, showing the first and second layers of the liner, coupled together with the zone blocks positioned therebetween and an anti-slip sheet placed between an intermediate portion of the liner. top of mattress pillow to prevent movement between the middle region of the pillow top and the mattress during the mattress articulation; Figure 48 is a cross section of another pillow top assembly of the present invention showing the pillow top assembly positioned to be in an anti-slip material, which is on a top surface of a mattress and which shows the pillow top assembly including a liner, a first series of generally rectangular zone blocks positioned to be inside the liner and a second series of generally rectangular zone blocks positioned to be in the first series of blocks within the cover; Figure 49 is a cross-sectional view of the upper pillow assembly of Figure 47 placed to be in an anti-slip material that is in a thermal disperser of Figure 45; Figure 50 is a cross-section of another pillow top assembly of the present invention showing the pillow top assembly positioned to be on a top surface of a mattress and including a liner defining an interior region and a series of zone blocks, trapezoidal in shape, extending transversely, held within the inner region, each of the zone blocks including a first and a second angled end and showing the second end of a first block in the series that overlaps the first end of an adjacent block in the series; Figure 51 is a view similar to Figure 50 of yet another pillow top assembly of the present invention, showing the pillow top assembly including a first series of zone blocks, generally trapezoidal in shape, and a second series of zone blocks in general trapezoidal shape to be in the first series of zone blocks; Figure 52 is a perspective view of a sliding cover according to the present invention having a plurality of gaps made of a size to receive the zone blocks and showing a zone block before insertion into one of the holes; Figure 53 is a cross-sectional view of the sliding cover in Figure 52 after insertion of the zone blocks into the recesses; Figure 54 is a perspective view of a sleeve according to the present invention showing the sleeve having grooves and recesses and showing zone blocks in general trapezoidal shape, placed to be in the recesses and showing a block of zone that is inserted through a groove of the sleeve in the hollow; Figure 55 is a mounting view, with parts separation of a conversion mattress structure of the present invention, showing a mattress structure including a fabric liner, resilient blocks, and a sleeve formed to receive the blocks and showing a first configuration of the mattress structure wherein the rolled foam is configured to rest on the sleeve; Figure 56 is a mounting view with part separation of a second configuration of the mattress structure of Figure 55 showing the mattress structure including an air bladder and a foam top that are configured to rest the sleeve inside the fabric lining; Figure 57 is a cross-sectional view of the mattress structure of Figure 55 in a mounted position showing the fabric lining having a predetermined height and the foam core positioned in the sleeve; Figure 58 is a cross-sectional view of the mattress structure of Figure 56 in an assembled or assembled position showing the foam top positioned in the air bladder and the air bladder located in the sleeve which also shows the fabric lining having generally the same predetermined height so that the mattress structure can be exchanged between the first and second configurations; Figure 59 is a mounting view, with part separation of an alternative embodiment of the present invention showing a mattress structure including a fabric liner, an anti-skid material attached to the fabric lining, or foam blocks terminals, opposite, a central block that includes three blocks of foam, zone, symmetrical (in broken lines) lateral rails of foam and upper parts coupled to the terminal or end blocks, and central and a sleeve formed to receive the terminal blocks and central; Figure 60 is a perspective view of a mattress structure of Figure 59 in a folded position showing (in dashed line) the relative position of the terminal foam blocks in the deployed position and the symmetry of terminal foam blocks for assist the manufacturer in storing and shipping the mattress structure; Figure 61 is a sectional view of parts of the central block of Figure 59 showing three symmetric zone foam blocks where they are separated by a polyethylene film to allow the blocks to move one relative to the other. other; Figure 62 is a mounting view with parts separation of a mattress structure of the present invention showing the mattress structure including a fabric liner, composite foam blocks, and a sleeve formed to receive the foam blocks, compounds; Figure 63 is a perspective view of a composite block showing the block coupled to the upper foam top portions, and the bottom and exposed foam end rails; Figure 64 is a perspective view with separation of parts of a mattress support bracket according to the present invention showing the support including a retainer configured for extension in a block and a support frame configured to be coupled to a base and the retainer; and Figure 65 is a perspective view, with separation of parts of a mattress retention apparatus that prevents an associated mattress structure from sliding laterally in a base having a solid bureau and a retainer of Figure 64 configured to be coupled to the solid support of the base.

Detailed Description of the Invention A bed and mattress structure 50 includes a mattress 52 in accordance with the present invention, as shown illustratively in Figures 1 (a) - (c). As used herein, the phrase "head end or head end 46" will be used to denote the end of any referred object placed to be close to the head end 46 of the bed and mattress structure 50. Similarly, the phrase "end for the feet or feet 48" will be used to denote the end of any object referred to be placed, to be near the end of the feet 48 of the bed and mattress structure 50. The mattress 52 includes a bottom cover 54 having a perimeter edge 56 and a first zipper means 58 attached to the perimeter edge 56 as shown in Figures 1 (a) and 2. The mattress 52 also includes a cover upper 60 cooperating with the bottom cover 54 to define a mattress interior 72. The upper cover 60 includes a top portion 62 that faces upward and a side portion 66 that extends downwardly as shown in Figures 1 (a) and 2. Side portion 66 includes a bottom edge 68 and a second half closure or zipper 64 attached to the bottom edge 68, the second half zipper or closure 64 which is attached to the first zipper means 58 to form the zipper 70 which connects the top cover 60 and the bottom cover 54. Although the rack 70 is positioned to be adjacent the bottom edge 68, a bottom cover having a side portion 67 extending upwardly as shown in Figures 1 (b) and 1 (c) defining one side of the bottom of the bottom can be provided. The mattress and the second half zipper can be attached to the side portion 67 of the bottom cover so that the zipper 70 can be positioned along the side of the mattress or the upper perimeter edge of the mattress 52. The zipper 70, by what thus, it can be positioned to be adjacent to the bottom edge 68 or at any position along the side of the mattress, which in the preferred mattress 52 includes the side portion 66, without exceeding the scope of the invention as it is currently perceived. However, the positioning of the zipper 70 adjacent the bottom edge 68 provides certain mounting-related advantages, described below while also improving the appearance of the mattress 52 by allowing the zipper 70 to be easily hidden. A frame 74 having the foam section 76 of the end of the head, a foam section 78 of the end of the feet, and lateral foam sections 80 extending longitudinally, which are joined to the foam sections 76, 78 of the The end of the head and the end of the feet is received inside the mattress 72 as shown in Figures 1 (a) and 2. The frame 74 is formed with rounded corners to improve the appearance of the mattress 52. In addition, the joints 83 connect the foam section 76 of the head end to the side foam sections 80 and the foam section 78 from the foot end to the side foam section 80. The joints 83 are lap joints having portions of the foam sections 76, 78 of the end of the head and the end of the feet which are overlapped and fixed to respective portions of the side foam sections 80. The formation of the joints 83 in this manner results in additional support for The foam section 76 of the end of the head when the mattress 52 slides past the end of the head 46 of the base 120 during the articulation of the bureau 138. The foam sections 76, 78, 80 of the end of the head, the end of the feet and sides of the frame 74 cooperate to define a central opening 82 as best shown in Figures 1 (a) and 2 above which a user will rest (not shown). The foam bottom 84 is received in the central opening 82 and the foam bottom 84 and a frame 74 are placed against the bottom cover 54. An apparatus superior to 86 rests against the upper part of the frame 74 and above the opening central 82 for coupling the upper portion 62 of the upper cover 60.

A core or core structure 88 is received in the central opening 82 and is positioned to be between the foam bottom 84 and the top 86. By making the top 86 of a size to cover both the shell 74 and the core 88 it is minimizes the ability of the user to perceive the interface between the frame 74 and the core 88. A pillow upper portion 90 is attached to the upper portion of the upper portion 62 of the upper cover 60 and positioned to be outside the interior 72 of the mattress as shown in Figures 1 (a) and 2 to define a sleeping surface 122 on which a user will rest. The top cover 60 is made of a material having a low coefficient of friction such as an anti-tear, polypropylene material to allow sliding movement of the pillow top 90 relative to the top cover 60 near the end of the pillow. the head 46 of the mattress 52. In addition, the top cover 60 may be somewhat elastic so that the user can "sink" into the mattress 52, allowing the mattress 52 to conform to the user's shape, thus releasing the interfacial pressure. The pillow top 90 includes a foam pad (not shown) covered by fabric and decorated, for example, by buttons 124, ornamental seams, or the like to improve the appearance of the pillow top 90. The upper part of pillow 90 can be attached to upper cover 60 using any suitable method such as by a zipper or closure (not shown) adhesive (not shown), straps (not shown) or even by sewing upper pillow 90 to upper cover 60 However, as is possibly described with reference to Figure 3, the pillow top 90 is attached to the top cover 60 using hook and eye type agitators so that the top of the pillow 90 can be easily removed and replaced. The mattress 52 can alternatively be provided without the pillow upper part 90, in which case the surface facing upwards of the upper portion 62 of the upper cover 60 serves as a sleeping surface 122. The core 88 can include alternatively either a set of zone 92 foam blocks, a sculpted foam core 94, an air bladder 96, a combination thereof as shown in Figures 1 (a) - (c) and 2. frame 74, foam bottom 84, top 86, zone foam blocks 92, sculpted foam core 94, and an interior portion (not shown) of pillow top 90 can be made from a rubber of foam such as urethane foam. The firmness and support characteristics of the foam rubber can be varied according to the wishes of the user of the mattress 52. The firmness and support characteristics of the foam rubber are varied by varying either the density of the foam or the shape of the foam. outer surfaces of the foam. Although urethane foam is the preferred material for these components, any material that provides support and firmness characteristics similar to those provided by foam and foam rubber can be used without exceeding the scope of the invention as perceived. currently. For example, the top 86 may be made of latex foam or urethane foam, or in the alternative may include an air bladder, or water bladder, or a bladder for other fluids without exceeding the scope of the invention as is currently perceived The mattress 52 rests on a base 120 as shown in Figure 3, such as a bed of springs, a stationary bureau of a bed, an articulated bureau of a bed, or the like. The mattress can also rest on a floor or any other surface in general flat, which faces upwards without exceeding the scope of the invention as it is currently perceived. Base 120 and bottom side of bottom cover 54 are provided with coupling portions, elongated fasteners 164 type hook and eyelet so that the mattress 52 removably attaches to the base 120 as shown in Figure 3. The fasteners 164 prevent lateral movement of the mattress 52 relative to the base 120. Without However, the fasteners 164 are separated from the head end 46 of the bed and mattress structure 50, so that the end of the head 46 of the mattress 52 can slide longitudinally relative to the end of the head 46 of the base 120 as shown in FIG. describe later. In addition, the underside of the pillow upper portion 90 and the upper side of the upper portion 62 of the upper cover 60 of the mattress 52 are both provided with elongated engagement portions of the hook and eye fasteners 168 as shown in FIG. Figure 3 so that the pillow top 90 removably attaches to the mattress 52. The mattress 52 is also provided with a pair of long eyelets 170, which extend longitudinally and the upper portion of the pillow 90 is provided with a pair of short eyelets 172 extending transversely. Each short eyelet 172 includes a first end 174 that is affixed to the pillow top 90 and a second end 176 that attaches to the pillow top 90 using the hook and eyelet type fasteners 178. The second end 176 of each short eyelet 172 is received by one of the long eyelets 170 respectively, so that the short eyelets 172 cooperate with the long eyelets 170 to prevent transverse movement of the pillow top 90 relative to the mattress 52 while the longitudinal sliding of the pillow top 90 of the mattress 52 is allowed during the articulation of the bureau 138. As described above, the mattress 52 is configured to be used as both stationary upward facing surfaces and in general flat in which the mattress 52 rests during use by a user, as well as in a bed, table, or other device (not shown) having articulation bureau 138 as shown schematically in Figure 4. The articulation bureau 138 illustrative includes a section of the head 144, a section of the buttocks 146, a section of the thighs 148, and a section of the feet 150. A device of the uz (not shown) or other illumination can be provided, having an arm (not shown) or extension support attached to the head section 144, so that the lumen extends to a position illuminating the mattress 52 ~. By joining the arm to the head section, the relative position of the user's head and the light will remain generally fixed. The section of the buttocks 146 of the bureau 138 is fixed in relation to the bed having an upward, generally horizontal, surface bearing the mattress 52 and the sections of the head, thighs and feet, 144 , 148, 150 can be moved with respect to the bed (not shown) and with respect to each other to move the mattress 52 so that the position of the mattress 52 and the position of the user on the top of the mattress 52 changes. Actuators for moving the head, thigh and foot sections 144, 148, 150 are indicated schematically by the arrows 152 in Figure 4. In the preferred articulation bureau 138, the foot section 150 is shown in FIG. it can move alone to positions in which the foot section 150 is generally parallel to the section of the buttocks 146. Furthermore, the movement of the section of the thighs, preferred 148 is limited to the positions between the sleeping position in General horizontal and the upward positions of the sleeping position so that the user's feet (not shown) remain generally vertical with or still elevated above the user's torso. It will be appreciated that various mechanical and electromechanical actuators and impellers can be used to lift and lower the individual sections of the bureau 144., 146, 148, 150 in relation to the bed as shown in Figures 4-6. It is well known in the art of hospital beds that electric drive motors can be used with various types of intrusion elements including various types of lead screw units and various types of mechanical joints, to cause relative movement of the portions of hospital beds. It is also well known to use pneumatic actuators that include various types of air bladders actuated by pressurized air to operate and / or move the individual portions of the hospital beds. The terms "air to lift or lower" in the ifications and claims, therefore, is proposed to cover all types of mechanical, electromechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic mechanisms, including manual crank mechanisms of all types, for lifting and lowering portions of the chair bed 50 of the present invention. As indicated above, the mattress 52 is attached to the base 120 and the upper pillow 90 is attached to the mattress 52 to allow sliding movement of the end of the head 46 of the mattress 52 relative to the base 120 and the upper portion of pillow 90 relative to mattress 52. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art, that by attaching one end of mattress 52 and the upper pillow 90 and then moving the joint bureau 138, cutting forces will be caused between the mattress 52 and base 120 and between upper pillow 90 and mattress 52. Connecting mattress 52 to base 120 and upper pillow 90 to mattress 52, as described above with ret to Figure 3, the cutting forces will be mitigated by allowing the end of the head 46 of the mattress 52 and the pillow top 90 to slide longitudinally relative to the base 120 and in relation to one another. As described above, the core 88 may include zone foam block 92. A set of zone foam blocks 92 found in the mattress 52 includes a plurality of transversely extending zone foam blocks 92 abutting longitudinally between yes. If the mattress 52 is for the use of a single bed as shown in Figure 1 (a), so that the central opening 82 is a first width 110, each block 92 extends the full width 110 of the central opening. 82 for attaching opposite side foam sections 80. The plurality of zone foam blocks 92 fill the entire central opening 82 so that a first of the blocks 92 engages the foam section 76 of the end of the head, one last of the zone foam blocks 92 engage the foam section 78 of the end of the feet and the zone foam blocks 92 between them are coupled together. If the mattress is for use in an extra-large bed (not shown) the central opening 82 is a second width and each block 92 extends only half the second width. In this case, the core 88 may alternatively include side-by-side combinations that include a set of zone foam blocks 92, sculpted foam core 94, and air bladder 96. For example, the sculpted foam core 94 is can receive in the opening 82 which engages one of the side foam sections 80 and the zone foam blocks 92 can be received in the opening 82 which engages in sculpted foam core 94 on one side and the other of the foam sections side 80. For another example, the central opening 82 can receive left and right assemblies side by side of the zone foam blocks 92. A first of the zone foam blocks 92 of the left set of zone foam blocks 92 engages the foam section 76 of the end of the head, a last of the zone foam blocks 92 of the left set of the zone foam blocks engages the foam section 78 of the end of the feet, and each zone foam block 92 of the end assembly of the zone foam block 92 engages one of the side foam sections 80. A first of the zone foam blocks 92 of the right set of the zone foam blocks 92 also engages the foam section '76 of the end of the head, a last of the zone foam blocks 92 of a right set of the zone foam blocks engages the foam section 78 of the end of the feet, and each block of zone 92 foam of the right set of zone foam blocks 92 engages the other in the side foam sections 80. In addition, the zone 92 foam blocks of the left set of the zone foam blocks engage the foam blocks of zone 92 of the right set of the zone 92 foam blocks. In this way, an extra-large bed, the zone 92 foam blocks are butted together longitudinally and side by side. If the mattress 52 is for the use of an extra size bed as shown in Figure 2, the central opening 82 is a third width 112 and each block 92 extends less than half the full width 112 of the central opening 82. In this case, the core 88 may additionally include a foam divider rail 114. The foam splitting rail 114 divides the central opening 82 into a first side opening 116 and a second side opening 118. The first and second side openings 116, 118 have equal widths, and the foam dividing rail 114 is made one size so that the widths of the first and second side openings 116, and 118 are the same as the first width 110 as shown in Figure 2. In this way, the blocks 92, the sculpted foam core 94 and the air bladder 96 can be interchangeably adjusted in each of the opening 82 of a single or matrimonial bed as shown in Figure 1 (a) and the first and second side apertures 116, 118 and engage one of the side rails 80 and the foam divider rail 114 as shown in Figure 2. The first aperture 116 can receive any of the core zone 92 foam blocks. of sculpted foam 94, and air bladder 96 and second opening 118 can receive any of the zone foam blocks 92, sculpted foam core 94, and an air bladder 96 as shown in Figure 2. The selection of the core pieces 88 received by the first opening 116 is independent of the selection of the core pieces 88 of the second opening 118, so that the core 88 for a mattress for use with an extra size bed can include the foam dividing rail 114, the blocks of zone 92 foam, sculpted foam core 94, air bladder 96, or a combination thereof. For example, if the core 88 includes two sets of zone foam blocks 92 as described above for a mattress with an extra-large size, each block 92 will extend the full width of the first or second opening 116, 118 respectively for coupling the foam divider rail 114 and the opposite side foam section 80. Each set of zone foam blocks 92 fills the first and second apertures 116, 118, complete so that a first of the blocks 92 engages the foam section 76. at the end of the head, the foam divider rail 114, and one of the side foam sections 80 a last of the zone foam blocks 92 engages the foam section 78 of the end of the feet, the foam divider rail 114 and the same of the side foam sections 80, and the blocks 92 between them are coupled to each other, the foam divider rail 114 and the same of the side foam sections 80. Each block of zone foam is provided with an anti-tear coating so that each zone foam block 92 can be moved in a vertical direction independently of the zone foam blocks 92, adjacent to and independently of the frame 74. The anti-tear coating can be a formed coating in or applied to the zone 92 foam blocks, as well as a sleeve 98 having an interior 100 that receives the zone foam block 92 as shown in Figures 1 (a) and 2. The sleeve 98 is made of a material that has a low coefficient of friction such as a "parachute material" or nylon. The firmness of the zone 92 foam blocks can vary from the zone 92 foam block to the zone 92 foam block. The firmness varies approximately between an average margin load deflection (ILD) of 15 to 98. The blocks of zone 92 foam, preferred are provided with rimmed, upper and lower surfaces as shown in Figures 1 (a) - (c) and 2. Borders on the surfaces result in less force being required to compress the blocks of zone 92 foam than would be required without the trimmings. This means that even when light weight is applied to the zone 92 foam blocks, the blocks 92 will be compressed and contoured to the user's shape, thereby reducing the interfacial portions, and essentially reducing the ILD so that the ILD is can "finely adjust" by the addition of borders. As described above, the core 88 may also include the foam core 94, sculpted as shown in Figures 1 (a), 2, 5 and 6. The foam core, sculpted, 94 is a single piece of foam of uniform firmness that has been sculpted to a desired shape. Nevertheless, the sculpted foam core 94 can be formed from a piece of foam having a firmness that varies along the length or across its width without exceeding the scope of the invention as it is currently perceived. The sculpted foam core 94 is formed to include channels 130 that extend transverse along the upper surface 132 of the sculpted foam core 94 as well as transversely extending cuts 134 extending inwardly from both. the top surface 132 as of the bottom surface 136 of the sculpted foam core 94, as best shown in Figures 5 and 6 showing the sculpted foam core 94 resting in an articulation bureau 138, schematic of a bed (not shown). Each cut 134 includes a slot 140 extending transversely, which extends inward from the respective surface 132, 136 and ending in a cylindrical opening 142 extending transversely. As described above, each of the head, thigh and foot sections 144, 148, 150 of the articulation bureau 138 typically move relative to the section of the buttocks 146, relative to one another. another, and in relation to the bed as shown in Figures 5 and 6. The portions of the sculpted foam core 94 adjacent to each of the sections 144, 146, 148, 150 are configured to move with each respective section 144, 146, 148, 150. The slots 140 allow the folding movement of the foam core, sculpted 94 in an inward direction, away from the slot 140 as shown, for example, in Figure 6, at the openings 142. they prevent inadvertent tearing of the foam core 94, sculpted when the foam core is folded, sculpted 94. The cuts 134 are positioned, so that at least one of the cuts 134 is generally between the head sections and the head sections. buttocks 144, 146, at least one of l The cuts 134 is generally between the sections of the buttocks and thighs 146, 148 and at least one of the cuts 134 is generally between the thighs and feet sections 148, 150 as shown in Figures 5 and 6. The sculpted foam core 94 is provided with a plurality of cut 134 in each position as best shown in Figures 5 and 6, so that the top is truly retained when the foam core, sculpted 94 is used with a variety of beds that have articulation bureaus, the longitudinal lengths of the head sections, the buttocks, the thighs and the feet 144, 146, 148, 150 of which may vary from bed to bed. bed . As mentioned above, the sculpted foam core 94 is also provided with transversely extending channels 130 formed in the upper surface 132 best shown in Figures 5 and 6. The channels 130 can be placed to facilitate folding of the foam core 94, sculpted as shown in Figure 6 by providing additional space for the surface 132, 136 opposite the cuts 134, for compressing themselves. However, the channels 130 are not necessarily for the portions of the sculpted foam core 94 to move with the head, butt, thigh and foot sections 144, 146, 148, 150 or the bureau. of articulation 138. Each channel 130 is formed to include a depth 160 and a width 162 as best shown in Figures 5 and 6, and both depth 160 and width 162 may be varied to vary the support and firmness characteristics exhibited by the foam core, sculpted 94 adjacent to the channels 130. For example, by increasing the depth 160 of the channels 130, the foam core 94, sculpted adjacent to the channels 130 provides the user (not shown) with supporting features and firmness to be expected from a non-sculpted foam mattress having foam that is less firm than the foam comprising the foam core, sculpted 94. Similarly, by increasing the width 162 of the channels 130, the core of foam, sculpted 94 adjacent to the channels 130 provides the user (not shown) with support and firmness characteristics that would be expected from a non-sculpted foam mattress having foam that is less firm than the foam comprising the foam core, sculpted 94 In this way, by varying the depth 160 and the width 162 of the channels 130, the support and firmness characteristics of the sculpted foam core portions 94 can be varied. The channels 130 are formed in the upper surface 132 of the foam core, sculpted 94. However, it has been found that by sculpting the channels 130 in the surface of the foam core, sculpted 94 that couples the bed, so that the sculpted foam core 94 presents a generally flat upper surface 132 provides decreases in the support and firmness characteristics of the mattress 52 carrying the foam core, sculpted 94, these decreases which are less than the decreases experienced when the sculpted surface gives up. In this way, by sculpting the foam core, sculpted 94 on the downward surface that couples the bed, the firmness and support characteristics of the mattress 52 can be further adjusted. It is within the scope of the invention as is currently perceived, to sculpt the foam core sculpted to include channels 130 only on the upper surface 132, only on the downward facing surface of the foam core 94, sculpted to engage the bed, and on both surfaces mentioned above. The foam sections, -lateral 80 of the frame 74 and the foam divider rail 114 can also be sculpted to allow each of these members 80, 114 to move as shown in Figure 7 together with the head sections, of the butto thighs and feet 144, 146, 148, 150 of the articulation bureau 138.

The foam divider rail 114 is typically sculpted to have the same pattern of the channels 130 and the cuts 134 as described above with respect to the sculpted foam core 94. The frame 74 is formed from foam having a firmness significantly greater than the core 88, so that the frame 74 provides additional support along the sides and ends of the mattress 52. This additional support is particularly useful when a user enters and leaves the bed. However, the use of these additionally stiff side foam sections 80 requires that the side foam sections 80 be sculpted to ensure that the foam sections 80, laterals move with the head sections, for the buttocks, thighs and feet 144, 146, 148, 150 of the bureau 138. As with the sculpted foam core 94, the side foam sections 80 of the frame 74 are provided with transverse cuts 134 having slots 140 and cylindrical openings 142 as shown in FIG. Figure 7. Side foam sections 80 can also be provided with depressions 130 to vary the firmness and support characteristics of the side foam sections 80 as described above with respect to the sculpted foam core 94. The core 88 can also be include the air bladder 96 as shown in Figures 1 (a), 2, and 8 (a) -15. The air bladder 96 is preferably inflated and deflated using air, however any acceptable liquid such as other gases or liquids such as water and water having additives can be used to adjust the viscosity of the resulting liquid to inflate the air bladder 96 without exceeding the scope of the invention as it is currently perceived. In this way, throughout the specification of claims this fluid will be referred to as air, although it is understood that other fluids can be used. The air bladder 96 can be a "one zone" air bladder (not shown) having a continuous air bag that extends through the air bladder, so that the entire air bladder is inflated and deflated uniformly every time air is added or removed from the air bladder. The air bladder 96 is a "multi-zone air bladder having independently inflatable zones." The preferred and illustrative air bladder 96 is a "four zone" air bladder 96 as shown in Figures 8 (a) and 9 having independently inflatable zones that include an upper back area 192 that supports the shoulder blade, a lower back area 194 that supports the lumbar region, an area for the buttocks 196 that supports the sacrum, and an area for the feet 198 that supports the thighs, legs and feet of the user.The air bladder 96 is constructed from an upper sheet 210 of an air-impermeable material that is adhesively connected to a lower sheet 212 of an air-impermeable material by an edge perimeter 214 of adhesive applied therebetween as shown in Figures 8 (a), 8 (b) and 9 to form an air-tight perimeter seal.The upper and lower sheets 210, 212 cooperate with the flange 214 to define r an inner region 216 of the air bladder 96 that is impermeable to air. The flange or edge 214 is slightly separated from the outer edges of the upper and lower sheets 210, 212 which form a perimeter flange 217 of two layers.

Beams are received in I 218, 219 which extend transversely within the inner region 216 as shown in Figures 9 and 11-15. Each beam in I 218, 219 includes an upper lip 220 fired and adhesively bonded to the topsheet 210 and a bottom lip 222 fired and adhesively bonded to the bottom sheet 212 as best shown in Figures 11 and 14. The adhesive forms an air tight seal between the upper lip 220 and the upper sheet 210 and between the lower lip 222 and the lower sheet 212. Each beam in I 218, 219 cooperates with the topsheet 210, the bottom sheet 212 and each adjacent I beam 218, 219 to define a pocket or pocket 224 so that when the air bladder 96 is inflated, it defines a series of transverse holes 224, which it extends longitudinally, as best shown in Figures 8 (a), 8 (b), 9 and 11-15. Each bag or pocket 224 is of a predetermined size when the bag 224 is inflated to its full capacity. Each beam in I 218, 219 has a first transverse end 226 and a second transverse end 228 as shown in Figure 8 (a). The first and second ends 226, 228 in the beams in I 228 are separated from the rim 214 to define the openings 230 in fluid communication with the adjacent bags 224 defined by the beams in I 218, thus allowing the passage of air between these. However, the first and second ends 226, 228 of the I-219 beams are adhesively bonded to the flange 214 to form air-tight seal between the adjacent pouches or holes 224 defined by the beams at I 219. In this way, the adjacent bags 224 defined by the beams in I 219 are not in communication for fluids through the beams in I 219. The beams in I 219 are separated to define each of the areas of the upper back, of the lower back, of the buttocks and feet, separate and distinct, 192, 194, 196, 198 of the air bladder 96 as shown in Figures 8 (a), 8 (b) and 9. Each zone 192, 194, 196 198 is provided with a tube 232 in fluid communication with the bags 224 of each respective zone 192, 194, 196, 198 and the tubes 232 are each in fluid communication with a supply 234 of pressurized air as shown schematically in FIG. Figure 8 (a). The preferred pressurized air supply 234 includes a source of compressed air 236 such as an air compressor, a pressurized air tank, or the like, a manifold 238 connecting each tube 232 to the source of compressed air 236, and valves 240 which individually control the flow of compressed air to and from each tube 232 as shown in Figures 1 (a), 2 and 8 (a). The manifold 238 is positioned to be in an opening 243 formed in the foam section 78 of the foot end of the frame 74 as shown in Figures 1 (a) and 2. The valves 240 include a source / valve 260 normally open, three-way exhaust that connects the manifold 238 to the compressed air source 236 when the source / exhaust valve 260 is opened, as shown in Figures 8 (a) and 8 (b) and connects the manifold 238 to an exhaust line or vent 258 when the source / exhaust valve 260 is energized. An upper back valve 262 is a normally closed valve that connects the upper back area 192 to the manifold 238 when the upper back valve 262 is energized. A lower back valve 264 is a normally closed valve that connects the lower back region 194 to the manifold 238 when the lower back valve 264 is energized. A slug valve 266 is a normally closed valve that connects the zone for the butts 196 to the manifold 238 when the valve for the butts 266 is energized. A valve for the feet 268 is a normally closed valve that connects the area for the feet 198 to the manifold 238 when the foot valve 268 is energized. To increase the support and firmness characteristics of the mattress 52 of the four-zone air bladder 96 adjacent the upper back area 192, the user energizes the valve 262 of upper back to place the upper back area 192 in fluid communication with the manifold 238 as shown in Figure 8 (a). The source / exhaust valve 260 is normally open so that when the upper back zone 192 is in fluid communication with the manifold 238, the upper back area 192 is also in fluid communication with the compressed air source 236, so that the upper back area 192 is inflated.

Also, to implement the firmness and support characteristics of the mattress 52 to the lower back, buttock and foot areas 194, 196, 198, the user simply energizes the lower back valve, buttock valve, or foot valve 264, 266 , 268, respectively to put the respective zone 194, 196, 198 of the air bladder 96 in fluid communication with the source of compressed air 236. In order to increase the firmness and support characteristics of the complete mattress 52 simultaneously, the user simply energizes the four valves of upper back, lower back, buttocks and feet 262, 264, 266, 268 in a simultaneous manner to put the four zones 192, 194, 196, 198 in fluid communication with the air source compressed 236 at the same time. To decrease the support and firmness characteristics of the mattress 52 of the four-zone air bladder 96 adjacent to the lower back area 192, to provide the user with a fuller feel, the user energizes the source / exhaust valve 260 to put the manifold 238 in fluid communication with the exhaust line 258 as shown in Figures 8 (a) and 8 (b), and then energize the upper back valve 262 to put the upper back area 192 in fluid communication with the manifold 238. Typically, the exhaust line 258 drains directly into the atmosphere, so that the energization of both the source / exhaust valve 260 and the upper back valve 262 puts the area 192 of upper back in fluid communication with the atmosphere, causing the upper back area 192 to deflate and provide the mattress 52 with a more plush feel to the user. Likewise, in order to diminish the firmness and support characteristics of the mattress 52 adjacent to the lower back, buttock, or foot areas 194, 196, 198, the user simply energizes the lower back valve, settler valve, or foot valve. feet 264, 266, 268, respectively, to put zone 194, 196, 198 of air bladder 96 in fluid communication with manifold 238 and thus the respective zone 194, 196, 198 and at the same time energizes the source / exhaust valve 258 to put the manifold 238, and thus the respective zone 194, 196, 198 in fluid communication with the exhaust line 258 as shown in Figures 8 (a) and 8 ( b) To decrease the firmness and support characteristics of the complete mattress 52, in a simultaneous way, the user simply energizes the five valves of upper back, lower back, buttocks, foot and source / exhaust 262, 264, 266, 268 , 260 in a simultaneous manner to place the four zones 192, 194, 196, 198 in fluid communication with the exhaust line 258 at the same time, so that the four zones 192, 194, 196, 198 simultaneously defog the atmosphere. If desired, the manifold 238 and the valves 240 can be re-arranged to "bind" the performance of the separated areas of the air bladder 96 from four zones as shown in Figure 8 (b). For example, the tube 232 communicating with the upper back area 192 can also be put in communication for fluids with the tube 232 communicating with the settling area 196 by the connector tube 263 communicating with both the zone 192 of upper back as with the settler area 196. The connecting tube 263 can be put in communication for fluids with the source of compressed air 236 through a valve 267 of upper back and of buttocks and manifold 238, so that Both the upper back area and the seat zone 192, 196 are generally inflated simultaneously and to the same degree to increase the firmness and support characteristics of these areas 192, 196 of the mattress 52. The connecting tube 263 can be put on. in communication for fluids with the exhaust line 258 to deflate both the upper back and the lower back zone in a simultaneous manner and to the same degree, 196 and decrease the firmness and support characteristics of the mattress 52, accordingly. As can be seen, any of two or more of the zones 192, 194, 196, 198 may be linked to a connector tube to cause the separate portions of the mattress 52 to provide similar firmness and support characteristics. Similarly, a second connector tube 265 can be formed to put the tubes 232 not connected to the first common line in fluid communication. For example, if the upper back and rear zone 192, 196 are in fluid communication through the connector tube 263, the tube 232 communicating with the lower back area 194 can be put in fluid communication with the tube. 232 communicating with the foot zone 198 by the second connector tube 265, so that the lower back area 194 is in fluid communication with the foot zone 198. By placing the second connector tube 265 in communication for fluids with the source of compressed air 236, both the lower back area and the feet 194, 198 will be inflated simultaneously, increasing the firmness and support characteristics of the mattress 52 adjacent to the lower back and foot areas 194, 198 at the same time and to the same degree. Also, by placing the second connector tube 265 in fluid communication with the exhaust line 258, the firmness and support characteristics of the mattress 52 adjacent to the lower back and foot areas 194, 198 will generally decrease simultaneously and in general to the same degree. In this way, independent areas of the air bladder 96 can be linked so that the support and firmness characteristics of the mattress 52 adjacent to the bonded areas change at the same time to the same degree when adjusted by the user. In the mattress 52, which has an air bladder 96 of four zones or of a zone, the pressure of each zone 192, 194, 196, 198 can be controlled automatically by placing the air bladder 96 in a mode "of computer". Once the user sets a desired pressure for each zone 192, 194, 196, 198 which results in the desired firmness and support characteristics, the pressure in one or more of the zones 192, 194, 196, 198 may change. For example, if the user moves so that a heavier or lighter portion of the user's body is supported by the affected area, the pressure in the affected area will change, changing the firmness and support characteristics in the affected area. . Each zone 192, 194, 196, 198 of the air bladder 96 is provided with a transducer 296 to provide an output signal in response to the pressure of each respective zone 192, 194, 196, 198 so that the pressure in each zone 192, 194, 196, 198 can be monitored, and the bed and mattress structure 50 can be configured to compensate for these changes in pressure. For example, if the pressure in the upper back area 192 decreases from a set point set by the user, the upper back valve 262 can be energized automatically to put the upper back area 192 in communication for fluids with the source of compressed air 236 until the pressure in the upper back zone 192 increases back to the set point, thereby increasing the firmness and support characteristics of the mattress 52 at the selected level. Also, if the pressure in zone 196 is increased above the setpoint set by the user, the settler valve 266 and source / exhaust valve 260 can be automatically energized to put the settler zone 196 in fluid communication with the exhaust line 258, deflating the seating area 196 until the pressure is reduced back to the set point, thereby returning the support and firmness characteristics of the mattress 52 adjacent to the seating area 196 to level select. By monitoring and adjusting the pressure in each zone 192, 194, 196, 198 of the air bladder 36, the support and firmness characteristics, selected from the user, can be maintained. When the mattress 52 of a size for an extra size or extra-large bed, as shown in Figure 2 and the core 88 includes two air bladders 96 side by side, a source of compressed air can be used 236 for inflating and deflating both air bladders 96. Typically, each air bladder 96 is provided with manifold 238 and valves 240, with each source / exhaust valve 260 being-in fluid communication with a "T-connector". "(not shown) that places each source / exhaust valve 260 in fluid communication with the compressed air source 236. As described above, both air bladders 96 can operate in a" computer "mode where the pressure of each respective zone 192, 194, 196, 198 is maintained by automatically inflating and deflating each zone to compensate for the movement of the user changing the load carried by each respective zone. The valve configuration described above in accordance with the present invention prevents a condition of "continuous running". In the continuous run condition it is presented in air bladders 96 from side to side, both of which are in a computer mode, when an air bladder 96 is defoaming so that a manifold 238 is in communication for fluids with the exhaust line 258 at the same time the other air bladder 96 is being inflated so that the other manifold 238 is in fluid communication with the source of compressed air 236. Since both manifolds 238 are connected by the connector in T, there is a possibility that the compressed air source 236 may be in fluid communication with the exhaust line 258 so that no air bladder 96 reaches the desired state, causing the system to run continuously as it attempts to inflate and deflate each air bladder. However, each source / exhaust valve 260 is a three-way valve that positively blocks the flow between the exhaust line 258 and the manifold 238 when the source / exhaust valve 260 is open to bring the manifold 238 into communication for fluids with the compressed air source 236. In addition, the source / exhaust valve 260 blocks flow from the compressed air source 236 when the source / exhaust valve 260 is energized to put the manifold 238 in communication for fluids with the exhaust line 258. In this way, the use of a three-way valve for the source / exhaust valve 260 eliminates the possibility of inadvertently achieving a continuous run condition when two air bladders are being operated side by side . The operation of an air bladder 96 of a zone as shown in Figure 10 is simpler than the operation of a four-zone air bladder 96. An inlet valve 292 is normally closed to block communication for fluids between the compressed air source 236 and manifold 238. Similarly, an exhaust valve 294 is normally closed to block fluid communication between the exhaust line 258 and the manifold 238. The manifold 238 is in fluid communication with the air bladder 96 and a translator 296 for converting a measured pressure to an output signal for the use of a controller 370 is in fluid communication with the air bladder 96 through the manifold 238. To increase the firmness characteristics and mattress support 52 having the bladder of a zone 96, a user simply energizes the inlet valve 292 to restore communication for fluids between the source d compressed air 236 and air bladder 96 through manifold tube 238 for inflating air bladder 96. To decrease the firmness and support characteristics of mattress 52, the user energizes exhaust valve 294 to restore fluid communication between the exhaust line 258 and the air bladder 96 through the manifold 238 to deflate the air bladder 96. The beams I 218, 219 in general are of similar height so that the holes 224 are generally of uniform size and shape as shown in Figure 9. The height of the beams in I 218, 219 can be varied as shown in Figures 11 -14 for the I-beams 218 'which are higher than the beams in I 218, 219 to produce gaps 224' defined by the beam I 218 'which are inflated to a size greater than the gap 224 which are not adjacent to the beam. beam in I 218 '. The recesses 224 'produce a portion in the mattress 52 adjacent to the recesses 224' in which the user perceives additional support and firmness. By placing the beam on I 218 'as shown in Figures 11-15, the air bladder 96 will provide additional firmness and support for the lumbar portion of the user, adjacent to the inner back area 194. Typically the beams on I 218 , 219 are generally of the same height so that the holes 224 are generally of uniform size and shape as shown in Figure 9. The air bladder 96 can be made, however, having selected the beams in I 218. 'which are higher than the beams in I 218, 219 as shown in Figures 11-15 to produce gaps 224 defined by the higher I-beams 218' which are inflated to a larger size than the gaps 224 defined alone by the beams at I 218, 219 so that the upper and lower sheets 210, 212 adjacent the recesses 224 'protrude beyond the upper and lower sheets 210, 212 adjacent the recesses 224 defined only by the beams at I 218, 219 when the holes 224, 224 'are inflated in a manner ompleted, as best shown in Figure 15. By including the insulated holes 224 'protruding beyond the other surfaces of the air bladder 96, and mattress 52 provides additional firmness and support characteristics in longitudinal zones adjacent to the voids. outgoing 224 '.

For example, an individual I-beam 218 'can be positioned to be between two beams at I 218, 219 as shown schematically in Figures 11 and 12 for the air bladder 96 resting on a generally flat surface. When the air bladder 96 is completely inflated, the upper sheet 210 adjacent to two adjacent recesses 224, which are both defined in part by the beam at I 218 ', protrude through the beam of the upper sheet 210 adjacent the recesses-224 as shown in Figure 11. Likewise, two adjacent I beams 218 'can be placed to be between the beams at I 218, 219 as shown schematically in Figures 13 and 14 for the air bladder 96 resting on a general flat surface. When the air bladder 96 is completely inflated, the upper sheet 210 adjacent to the three adjacent recesses 224 ', each of which is defined at least in part by the beams at I 218', protrudes above the upper sheet 210 adjacent to the recesses 224 as shown in Figure 14. Although only one and two adjacent I beams 218 'which are higher than the beams in I 218, 219 are shown in Figures 11-15, the height of any number of adjacent I beams 218 ', to cause a desired portion of the upper and lower sheet 210, 212 of the air bladder 96 to protrude beyond the remaining portions of the upper and lower sheet 210, 212. The taller I-beams 218 'can be used to provide firmness and support characteristics that vary longitudinally along the mattress 52 including the air bladder 96 as shown in Figure 15, even if the air bladder 96 it's a one-way air bladder to. In addition, the use of higher I-beams 218 'may cause each zone of an air bladder 96 of several zones to provide the mattress 52 with multiple firmness and support characteristics adjacent to the area. For example, the I-218 'beams can be used to form gaps 224' in the foot or foot zone 198 adjacent to the area of the butts 196 as shown in Figure 15. The mattress 52 that includes the air bladder 96 with these holes 224 'will provide the user with additional firmness and support, adjacent to his or her thighs. In this way, the area of the feet 198, which includes the recesses 224, 224 'of the foot area 198 is generally equivalent, will simultaneously provide the portion of the mattress 52 adjacent to the foot area 198 with multiple firmness and support characteristics. For another example, you can use beams in I 218 'to form gaps 224' in the area of the feet 198 adjacent the user's screws as shown in Figure 15. The mattress 52 including the air bladder 96 with these holes 224 'will provide the user with additional firmness and support adjacent to his or her ankles. In addition, by providing this additional support adjacent the user's ankles, the mattress 52 will operate to relieve the interfacial pressure against the user's heels, to help mitigate the pressure ulcers that may develop on the user's heels. The air bladder 96 in this manner can be used to hide the support and firmness characteristics of the mattress 52, both by making the air pressure adjustable in one or multiple longitudinal zones, for example, the areas 192, 194, 196, 198 and when using beams in I 218 'are higher than the other beams in I 218, 219 so that the portions of the upper and lower sheets 210, 212 of the air bladder 9,6 protrude beyond the portions of the upper and lower sheets 210, 212 adjacent only to the beams in I 218, 219. The flange 217 of the air bladder 96, which is positioned to be outside the perimeter edge 214 as shown in Figures 8 (a), 8 (b), and 9, is formed from outer portions of both the upper and lower sheets 210, 212. The flange 217 is formed to include a plurality and separate openings 244 extending therethrough. The openings 244 are used during the manufacturing process to stabilize the air bladder 96 as performed in the manufacturing operations. The openings 244 can also be used, however, to stabilize the air bladder 96 in the mattress 52. For example, when the mattress 52 is provided for an extra-large bed (not shown), so that the core 88 contains elements in a joint coupling side by side, if the core 88 includes air bladders 96 side by side, then the openings 244 of the first air bladder 96 can be attached to the openings 244 of the second air bladder 96 to prevent relative transverse movement of the first air bladder 96 relative to the second air bladder 96. Even if the core 88 includes side-by-side elements only one of which is an air bladder 96, the openings 244 can still be used to stabilize the air bladder 96, if desired. In the bed and mattress structure 50, upper cover 60 of the mattress 52 can be formed to include an enclosed, heated "air release" channel 250 that receives air from a source of compressed air 236 as shown in Figure 16 The enclosed channel 250 is preferably made from a lightweight and air impermeable material so that the air is directed along the length of the channel 250. The material is formed to include small openings (not shown) that allow a small amount of air to escape from channel 250. The openings direct air through a surface of mattress 52 as shown by arrows 252 in Figure 12. An air heater 254 is interposed between the compressed air source 236 and the channel 250 as shown in Figure 16 so that heated air can be provided to the channel 250. The air channel 254 can be operated selectively so that when operating the air heater 254, the air 252 is the release of hot air that warms the user and heats particularly the user's limbs. When the air heater 254 is not operating, the air 252 is an air release at room temperature, in which it cools the user during the operation of the channel 250. Of course, a valve is placed between the source of compressed air 236 and the channel 250, so that channel 250 can be operated at the discretion of the user. The channel 250 may be placed around the perimeter of the upper cover 60 as shown in Figure 16. As mentioned above, the preferred construction material of most of the mattress 52 is foam rubber which is a thermal insulator. As such, it is important that channel 250 be as close as possible to the sleeping surface 122 and the user. As a result, if the mattress 52 includes the pillow top 90, then the channel 250 can be formed around an outer edge of the pillow top 90 instead of the top cover 60 so that the channel 250 is adjacent to the pillow. the sleeping surface 122. Also, a portable controller 256 for use by the user is provided as shown in Figure 16 to control the operation of the bed and mattress structure 50. The portable controller 256 can operate both on the compressed air surface 236 and the air heater 254 as well as other functions of the mattress, as described in detail below with reference to Figures 21 and 22. The bed and mattress structure 50 It can provide additionally with 270 rest for arms as shown in Figures 17-20. The arm rest 270 includes a curved top surface 272, a bottom, curved surface 274, and in general flat sides 276. The top and bottom surface 272, 274 may each be formed to include openings 278 made of a size for receive drinking glasses, drinking glasses, drinking cans, or the like (as shown in dotted lines in Figure 18). The arm rest 270, preferred includes a foam rubber pad 280 and a fabric cover 282 formed in compliance to fit around the pad 280 as best shown in Fig. 18. The top and bottom surface 272, 274 they separate by a first distance 284 near a first end 286 of the arm rest 270 and taper together so that the top and bottom surface 272, 274 are separated by a second distance 288 near an end 290 of the arm rest 270 The arm rest 270 is placed between the user's elbow (not shown) and the sleeping surface 122. The distance between the elbow and the sleeping surface 122 varies somewhat among the users resting on the sleeping surface 122. moving the arm rest 270 in a longitudinal manner relative to the user's elbow, most users will find a position in the arm rest 270 having a distance between the upper surface and the bottom 272, 274 in which the user can comfortably rest his elbow. If the user finds that it is more comfortable to rest his elbow closer to the first end 286 than at the second end 290, the user will more likely prefer to use the arm rest 270 than on the upper side 272 that faces upward as shown in the FIG. Figure 19, so that the upwardly facing opening 278 is in the arm rest portion 270 that extends longitudinally away from the seating section 146. Conversely, if the user finds that it is more comfortable to rest his elbow closer to the second end 290 that of the first end 286, the user will most likely prefer to use the arm rest 270 with the bottom side 274 facing upward as shown in Figure 20, so that once again the opening 278 that faces the above is in the portion of the arm rest 270 extending longitudinally away from the settling section 146. It can be seen in each case that the shapes of the top and bottom surfaces 272, 274 generally conform to the shape of the sleeping surface 122 of the mattress 52 when the bureau 138 is articulated away from the sleeping position, generally flat. As mentioned above, the portable controller 256 provides as shown in Figures 16, 21 and 22 to control operation in the bed and mattress structure 50. The portable controller 256 includes the first end 210, the second end 312, an energy and communication cord 314 extending away from the second end 312 and towards the bed either the bed and mattress structure, an upper surface 316, and a medical keyboard 318, carried on top surface 316 for receiving user inputs, bed structure and mattress 50 that adjusts its various characteristics in response to keypad inputs 318 as described below. When the user is holding the remote controller 256 to operate the bed and mattress structure 50, the portable controller 256 will typically be maintained in a generally vertical room as shown in Figure 21 with the first end 310 positioned to be generally above the second end 312. The illustrative keypad 318 includes a primary light emitting diode (LED) display 320, memory buttons 322, bed position buttons 324, mattress control buttons 326, massage control buttons 328 , and a bed selection button 330 as shown in Figure 22. In addition, the numeric keypad 318 includes an LED on / off display of LED 332, a LED zone display 334, and a selection display 336. Bed, LED. As described below, the illustrative keypad 318 is configured for use with an extra-large or extra-large bed having an articulation bureau 138 and having at least one air bladder 96 of four zones. Other beds having other features will include the portable controller 256 having a numeric keypad 318 that includes at least some of these buttons. The numeric keypad 318 is arranged so that the primary display 320 is positioned adjacent the first end 310 of the numeric keypad 318 as shown in Figure 22. The remaining buttons and displays are positioned to be in longitudinally spaced relation between the primary display 320 and the second end 312. The memory buttons 322 are positioned adjacent to the primary display 320, the bed position buttons 324 are positioned adjacent the memory buttons 322, the mattress control buttons 326 are positioned adjacent to the buttons 324 of bed position, massage control buttons 328 are placed adjacent to mattress control buttons 326, and bed selection button 330 is positioned adjacent to massage control buttons 328 and adjacent to the second end 312 of the numeric keypad 318. The memory buttons 322 provide the user with the ability to establish one or more "memory locations" In addition, the memory positions include a corresponding air pressure in the areas 192, 194, 196, 198 of the air bladder 96 selected by the user to provide selected characteristics of firmness and support to correspond to each preferred position of the articulation bureau 138, as shown in Figure 22 in which the illustrative numeric keypad 318 allows the user to set two memory locations. Once the user establishes the memory locations, the user simply presses the memory button corresponding to the desired position and the articulation bureau 138 moderates automatically to its pre-set position while each zone 192, 194 , 196, 198 of the air bladder 96 is automatically inflated or deflated at its preset pressure, so that the mattress 52 provides the pre-selected firmness and support characteristics, selected by the user to correspond to the position selected from the articulation bureau 138. The bed position buttons 324 allow the user to manipulate the articulation sections of the articulation bureau 138. Furthermore, if the individual LEDs of the primary display 320 will be energized to indicate the relative position of the bureau articulation 138. In addition, the primary display 320 indicates the relative air pressure in areas 192, 194, 196, 198 of the bladder of air 96. The primary display 320 will provide an indication for the last button pressed. If you are running more than one function at the same time or if the memory buttons 322 are pressed, the primary display 320 will indicate the relative position of the head section 144 of the bureau 138. Also, the bed position buttons 324 include a preset "lounge" button 338 and a preset "flat bed" button 340 which are additional memory keys that are adjusted during the assembly of the mattress 52 according to the entries of the customer profile sheet. The mattress control buttons 326 shown in Figure 22 include a "zone" button 342 for selecting the zones 192, 194, 196, 198 of the air bladder 96 in response to the user pressure of the zone button 342, display of zones 334 that include LED indicators, one of which will be energized to indicate the selected zone 192, 194, 196, 198, a "firm" button 344 to increase the air pressure in the selected zone in response to the pressure from the user of the pawl button 344, to increase the firmness of the mattress 52 adjacent to the selected zone, and a "soft" button 346 to decrease the air pressure in the selected zone in response to the user pressure of the soft button 346 to decrease the firmness of the mattress 52 adjacent to the selected area. As described above, when the user presses the zone button 342 to select a selected zone, the primary display 320 will indicate the relative air pressure in the selected zone. In addition, the mattress control buttons 326 include a mattress computer on / off button 348. Once a user has selected a desired air pressure for each zone 192, 194, 196, 198, the user can move relative to the air bladder 96. As the user moves, the body portions heavier or more light, user can be supported by each respective zone 192, 194, 196, 198 that support the area when the desired air pressure was selected in an original way. If the amount of air in zone 192, 194, 196, 198 is set, this movement of the user can change the forces exerted in each zone 192, 194, 196, 198, thereby changing the air pressure in each zone and the characteristics of the support and firmness of the mattress 52 adjacent to each zone 192, 194, 196, 198. The mattress 52 preferably includes transducers 296, described above with reference to Figures 8 (a), 8 (b), and 10, to measure the air pressure in each zone 192, 194, 196, 198. If, after selecting the desired firmness and support characteristics for each zone 192, 194, 196, 198, the user presses the power button / 348 computer shutdown to turn on the "computer mode", an alternate computer will monitor the output signals provided from each transducer 296 in response to the air pressure in each zone 192, 194, 196, 198 and will operate "automatically the valves 240 when necessary and in the manner described above. with reference to Figures 8 (a) and 8 (b) to maintain the pressure in each respective zone 192, 194, 196, 198 at a set point corresponding to the firmness and support characteristics chosen by the user. computer mode is turned on, the LED of the computer on / off display 332 will be energized to indicate this state.The mattress 52 can also be provided with a massage characteristic.The currently preferred massage characteristic is provided by a first and second motors (not shown), the first motor that joins the articulation bureau 138 adjacent to the head section 144 and the second motor that joins the articulation bureau 13 8 adjacent to the foot section 150. Each motor rotates a tree that generally extends horizontally. An off-center weight is attached to each tree so that as each tree rotates, each tree, each engine, and bureau 138 adjacent to the engine vibrate. To increase the level of vibration perceived by the user, the rotation speed of the trees is increased and to decrease the level of vibration perceived by the user, the rotation speed of the tree is decreased. As mentioned above, the mattress control buttons 326 include the massage control buttons 328, which includes the massage head increase button 350, the massage head decrease button 352, the button 354 for increasing the massages of the end of the feet, the button 356 for decreasing massages of the end of the feet, and the buttons 358 for undulations. When the user presses the massage increment button 350 at the head end, the motor attached to the articulation bureau 138 adjacent the head section 144 increases the rotational speed of its shaft until a maximum rotational speed is reached together in which the rotational speed of the tree can not be increased additionally. When the user presses the massage end button 352 of the end of the head, the motor attached to the articulation bureau 138 adjacent to the head section 144 decreases the rotational speed of its shaft until a minimum rotational speed is reached. The motor will stop the rotation of the shaft if the massage end button 352 of the end of the head is pressed, when the shaft is rotating at the minimum rotational speed. Similarly, pressing the button 354 for increasing the mass of the feet and the button 356 for decreasing the massage of the end of the feet causes the motor attached to the articulation bureau 138 adjacent to the section of the feet 150 to increase and decrease the rotational speed of your tree. Pressing the corrugation buttons 358 causes the motors to operate together to provide a coordinated massage effect. Finally, if the mattress 52 is for an extra-large or extra-large bed that has air bladders 96 side by side, the remote controller 256 will control both halves of the bed and mattress structure 50. By pressing the bed selection button 330, shown in Figure 22, it will tension between the two halves of the bed and mattress structure 50 so that when the "left" LED of the bed selection display 336 is energized the inputs of the bed user control to the numeric keypad 318 will operate to monitor the left side of the bed structure and mattress 50, and when the "right" LED of the bed selection display 336 is energized, the user control inputs to the numeric keypad 318 They will operate to manipulate the right side of the bed and mattress structure 50. Typically, when the user operates the bed and mattress structure 50 including the articulation bureau 138 and the four-zone air bladder 96 using the illustrative numeric keypad 318 shown in Figure 22, the user will press one of the memory buttons 322. However, on occasion, the user may choose to adjust the position of the articulation bureau 138 using the bed placement buttons 324 and less likely to frequent, may wish to adjust the support and firmness characteristics of the mattress 52 when pressing the mattress control buttons 326. Occasionally, the typical user will utilize the massage characteristics by pressing massage control buttons 328. In this manner, the illustrative numeric keypad 318 is arranged so that the buttons are ordered from the first end 310 to the second end 312, or from the top to the bottom, in the order of frequency of use of the buttons, so that the most frequently used buttons are placed to be closer to the first end 310 or upper end of the numeric keypad 318 and the less frequently used buttons are closer to the second end or end of the bottom 312 of the numeric keypad 318. In addition, you can see that the illustrative numeric keypad 318 is arranged so that the buttons are arranged from the first end 310 to the second end 312, or from the top to the bottom of the numeric keypad 318, in general, in the order that the user will use mode buttons that the first buttons used in general in a typical operation sequence are closer to the top of the numeric keypad 318 and the last buttons used in a sequence Typical operation aids are closer to the bottom of the numeric keypad 318. The portable controller 256 provides the man-machine interface for the user. By pressing buttons 322, 324, 326, 328, 330 (graphically displayed) the user can select several operations. These operations are bed position, mattress computer, memory, massage, mattress zones and firm or soft controls. These orders are sent via a RS232 wire connection, 372, to the compressor board 374 as shown in Figure 23. The compressor board 374 acts as a connection interface to the mattress control board 376, the engines 378 of bed position in massages. The signals generated in the remote controller 256 pass through the compressor board 374 to the mattress control board 376. The mattress controller operates the valves 240 to control the flow of compressed air or exhaust from zone to zone. The mattress controller also receives signals from the transducers 296 that monitor the air pressure in each zone and provides signals back to the portable controller 256 for display or display. The portable controller 256 is a microprocessor-based control system, capable of remotely controlling up to eight individual bladders or air zones of the air bladders 96 via a link in series with the pressure control system. Also, the system will receive and display the relative pressure information through a serial link. The link itself is going to be either a wire or a wireless link. The system is based on a programmable, one-time surface mount device of the Microchip 16 C series. There are two used micro controllers. One located on the portable controller 256 and the other is on the mattress control board. A serial RS232 link is communicated VIA. The main benefit of the Microchip device is the implementation of control algorithms due to the reduced instruction set of the controller. Additional benefits include: • Simplified memory requirement predictions, and synchronization calculations due to the individual line, predominantly individual cycle instructions. • Low cost . • Additional program memory is not required. • The computer program is directly portable to other devices in the large family allowing subsequent updates. • Integrated, independent wrist timer prevents the system from collapsing due to an insensitive controller.

• The program and separate data memory prevents unintentional corruption of the program due to accidental access to program memory. A salient characteristic for this system is the implementation of a direct feedback display on the numeric keypad 318 of a man-machine interface. The primary display 320 presents the user with real-time direct feedback of the control operations. The mattress control board 376 receives signals from the transducers 296 in response to the air pressure in each zone and uses that information to display the pressure setting and the controlled areas of the air bladder 96 in the primary display or display 320 of the portable controller 256. The mattress 52 is ideally suited to provide a user with a sleeping surface 122 that is customized to provide firmness and support characteristics set by and for the user. As described above, the mattress 52 can include the air bladder 96 having either one zone or multiple zones, and within each zone, the air bladder 96 can be provided with variable height I-beams to provide features multiple of firmness and support within each zone. The mattress 52 may also include a core of sculpted foams 94 or blocks of zone 92 foams as described above. In addition, however, the mattress 52 can be provided with combinations of the foregoing as shown in Figures 1 (b) and 1 (c). The mattress 52 can be provided with a combination of zone 92 foam blocks and air bladders 96 as shown in Figure 1 (b) illustratively showing air bladders 96 for supporting the shoulder blade and sacrum of the user and blocks of zone 92 foam to support the lumbar region and the thighs and legs of the user. Air bladders 96 can operate individually or separately, or the air bladders 96 can be brought into fluid communication with each other in a manner similar to that described above with respect to Figure 8 (b) so that they are inflated and deflated in general at the same time and in general at the same time. same grade. Similarly, the mattress 52 can illustratively include zone 92 foam blocks positioned to support the upper back, the buttocks, and the lower legs of the user and the air bladders 96 to support the lumbar region and the user's thighs as shown in FIG. shown in Figure 1 (c). As mentioned above, the air bladders 96 can operate individually and separately, or the air bladders 96 can be brought into fluid communication with each other in a manner similar to that described above with respect to Figure 8 (FIG. b) 'so that they inflate and deflate in general at the same time and in general to the same degree. As can be seen, any combination or placement of the zone 92 foam blocks and air bladders 96 can be provided in the mattress 52 to satisfy the desired firmness and user support characteristics. Although the preferred sculpted foam core 94 extends generally over the entire length of the central opening 82, shorter, sculpted, foam cores (not shown) can be provided for use in combination with air bladders. and the zone foam blocks 92 if desired to provide the user with their preferred firmness and support characteristics without exceeding the scope of the invention as currently perceived. The mattress 52 together with a "test mattress" (not shown) containing a multi-zone air bladder 96 can be used to determine the firmness, support and interfacial pressure preferences of the user and to use same to customize the mattress 52 for each user. The preferred method for customizing the mattress 52 is initiated when a potential user completes a questionnaire to assist in the analysis of the user's "sleep profile". The sleep profile assesses factors such as the general health and sleep habits of the user. A recombination of firmness is computed either in terms of a pressure for several zones of the test mattress or in terms of a type of foam and density for each zone. In addition, the surface recommendation is established based on the user's response to a surface recommendation questionnaire. Once the surface and hardness recommendations are established, the user is in the test mattress and the air bladder 96 is pressurized to correspond to the firmness recommendation. Then, the areas of the air bladder 96 are adjusted to correspond to the user's preferences and the resulting, preferred, firmness readings are recorded. An algorithm has been developed that correlates the pressure opening of the air bladder once the preferred support and firmness characteristics have been established by the user in a customized bed configuration. For example, preferred firmness readings can be translated to establish the density of the foam that, if incorporated into a mattress will provide the firmness and support characteristics similar to those provided by the sleeping surface, of test that has the readings preferred of firmness. This correlation can be developed by comparing the deformation of the air bladder 96 having a selected air pressure when a known force is applied to it by a probe of a known size, and then determining a foam ILD that provides the same flexure when the same force is applied to the foam by the same probe. A pressure deformation response curve can be developed, which shows the foam ILD which generally provides the same flexion as the air bladder 96 for various air pressures within the bladder 96. Once the Air pressure readings that provide the user with their preferred firmness characteristics, support and interfacial pressure, the mattress 52 can be prepared when the deformation response curve to the pressure so that the mattress 52 has the components or cores 88 of mattress structure including the sculpted foam core 94, the foam blocks of zones 92, air bladder 96, or a combination thereof that provides the user with the preferred features. In addition, if desired, a computer can be used to correlate the test mattress pressure readings after finding the preferred firmness and user support characteristics and a program to use the pressure correlation and the deformation response curve to the pressure to determine the arrangement of the components of the mattress structure that will provide the mattress 52 that satisfies the preferences of the user. Once the customized configuration of the bed is established, the mattress 52 can be assembled from a computer at the point of sale containing a plurality of cores 88 for the user, to test. and verify that the mounted mattress 52 satisfies your preferences. If the mattress 52 is not satisfactory, the cores 88 can be replaced at the point of sale. Once the user is satisfied with the arrangement of the cores 88, the finished, customized mattress can be distributed immediately, if desired. In the alternative, once the customized configuration of the bed is established, the data describing this configuration can be transmitted to a factory in which the mattress 52 can be mounted for distribution to the user. In addition, if the user determines that after the distribution assembly that the user prefers to alter the firmness and support characteristics, the cores 88 can again be readjusted or updated until the mattress 52 provides the desired firmness and support characteristics. If desired, a team of user cores 88 can be provided so that the user can adjust the firmness and support characteristics. The method for selecting the components of the mattress structure or cores 88 to provide a custom foam mattress 52 for adjusting the user's musculoskeletal condition, which includes providing a plurality of mattress structure components arranged for selective mounting of the mattress structure. the components. The components comprise a plurality of foam cores 88 for filling the central opening 82 extending longitudinally in the mattress 52 above which the user rests. The foam cores 88 should have a variety of shapes and features of support and firmness from which a desired assembly is selected. The method also includes providing a trial mattress having a longitudinal, similarly extending central opening filled with a plurality of longitudinally spaced air bladders extending transversely through the central opening and an air supply. to selectively fill each air bladder at various pressures. A user is placed above the central opening of the test mattress is supported on a plurality of air bladders. The air pressure in each bladder is adjusted to a selected pressure to provide the support and firmness desired by the user. An equivalent foam core that has the desired support and firmness characteristics that correspond to the selected air pressures, is then selected and placed in the central opening to provide the custom mattress. The mattress 52 according to the present invention can be made in a size for a single bed or a double bed as shown in Figures 1 (a) -l (c), or an extra-sized or extra-large bed as shown in Figure 2. When the mattress 52 is made one size for the extra-sized and extra-large beds, both sides of the mattress 52 can be customized individually if desired to provide the desired firmness and support characteristics for the mattress 52. the individual dream companions. Both cores 88 and upper parts 86 can be selected for each side of the mattress 52, to provide the desired firmness and support for each side of the bed. This flexibility results from the separate cores 88 that are provided for each side of the mattress 52. In addition to this flexibility, the use of different cores 88 for each half of the mattress 52 operates to reduce the transmission of movement from one side of the mattress 52 to the other . In this way, when a sleep partner moves, the amount of movement experienced by the other sleep partner is reduced as a result. As mentioned above, the mattress 52 can be provided with an air bladder having separate zones that can be selectively adjusted by the user, to provide varying firmness and support characteristics. If the same mattress 52 is used in a bed having the articulation bureau 138, the mattress 52 can be provided in a portable controller 256 for the by a user to control the adjustment of both the position of the bureau 138 and the supporting characteristics. In addition, the portable controller 256 may include a "memory adjustment" feature that allows the user to set preferred combination settings for the bureau 138 and the mattress 52. In addition, the mattress is it can provide with combinations of air bladders 96, zone foams elements 92, and sculpted foam core 94 to produce a "combination mattress". Illustratively, mattress 52 can be provided having air bladder 96 that supports the shoulder blade of the user, zone foam blocks 92 that support the user's lumbar region, air bladder 96 in the portion of buttocks that support the user's sacrum, and the zone 92 foam blocks that support the thighs and legs. If desired, the air bladders 96 can be in communication for fluids so that they can be inflated and deflated at the same time and at the same pressures or the air bladders 96 can be independent of each other and controlled independently by the user, so that the user can establish different support and firmness characteristics for each one of the shoulder blade and the sacrum. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, illustrated in Figure 24, a mattress apparatus 452 is provided that includes at least four different combinations of firmness sensations. Mattress apparatus 452 allows sellers to use an individual test apparatus to present a user with at least four different firmness sensations before purchase. In this way, the mattress apparatus 452 allows the meter to retain floor space by having fewer test mattresses in the store and the user can customize the feeling of a mattress that they can plan to buy from the vendor. The various sensations of firmness are achieved by making the mattress apparatus 452 provide users with a vertical zone (subsequently "controlled compression") and also a zone zone from the toe. This generally bi-dimensional zone minimizes the interface between the user and the mattress apparatus 452 by distributing the weight load of the user of the apparatus 452. With reference to Figure 24, the mattress apparatus 456 includes a padded panel 454, upper and a padded panel 460, bottom, opposite. The padded upper panel 454 has an upwardly facing upper portion 459, an opposite bottom portion (not shown), and a perimeter edge 456. Illustratively, the upper padded upper panel portion 459 is 454 Include a padded pattern. The padded upper panel 454 is made of a material that is somewhat elastic, so that the wearer can "join" the mattress apparatus 452. Therefore, the mattress apparatus 452 conforms to the user's shape _ and relieves pressure interfacial. The cushioned bottom panel 460 of the mattress apparatus 452 cooperates with the padded upper panel 454 to define a mattress interior 472 as shown in Figures 24 and 25. The cushioned panel, bottom 460 includes an upper portion 462 that faces inward, a bottom portion 464, external, opposite, and a side portion 466 that extends upward. The side portion 466 includes a bottom edge 468 adjacent the bottom portion 464 and an upper edge 470 formed for attachment to the perimeter edge 456 of the upper, padded panel 454. As shown in Figure 1 (a), a padded, upper panel 454 could be provided, however, by having a side portion 67 extending downward that stops one side of the mattress. The upper edge 470 and the perimeter edge 456 are joined by a stitched construction, such as a seam. However, it is understood that a zipper and other attachment mechanisms such as hook, buttons, tabs, and the like could be used to couple together the upper and bottom cushioned panels 454, 460. Similar to the upper portion 459, the portion of Padded panel backing 464, bottom 460 is stitched to include a padded lining pattern and is made from a material that is somewhat elastic. See Figure 24. While a lining cushion pattern is illustrated, it is understood that a wide variety of cushioning patterns are contemplated in accordance with the present invention for the upper and bottom portions 459, 464. In addition, the upper and lower portions of the upper and lower portions 459, 464. of the bottom 459, 464 of the upper and bottom cushioned panels 454, 460 can be constructed from a wide variety of materials having a variety of elasticities to provide the apparatus 454 with different firmness sensations. The mattress apparatus 454 also includes a core 458, a frame 474 that surrounds the core 458 and have a portion 476 of the end of the head, a portion 478 on the end of the feet, and side sections 480 that extend in a manner longitudinal, which connect sections 476, 478 of the end of the head and the end of the feet, a superior foam of the upper part 479, and a lower foam of the upper part 481. The term "section of the end of the head" and "end-of-foot section" will be used later, it is understood that any section can be used to support the user's head and feet. The frame 474 is constructed of foam that is firmer than the core 458 to provide additional support to the user when entering or leaving the mattress apparatus 454. However, it is understood that a wide variety of materials having several strengths can be used, to build the frame 474. As shown in Figure 24, the frame 474 is received in the interior 472 of the mattress. The sections 476, 478 of the end of the head and the end of the feet are coupled to the side sections 480 at the tips 483. The section 476 of the end of the head, the section 478 of the end of the feet, and the lateral section 480 and the frame 474 cooperate to define a central opening 482 above which the user will be. The frame 474 is sandwiched between the upper or lower foam 479, 481 of the upper part. With reference to Figure 24, the upper, vertical foam 479 of the upper part has a first pre-selected foam firmness and the lower foam 481 of the upper part has a second preselected foam firmness. According to the present invention, the superior firmness of the upper part is different from the lower firmness of the upper part. The difference between the upper and lower firmness of the upper part may vary. However, it is understood that, as the difference between the upper and lower firmness of the upper part increases, it makes the difference in the feeling of the mattress to the user due to the difference in controlled compression. The core 458 is received in the central opening 482 of the frame 474 and is positioned to be between the upper or lower foam 479, 481 of the upper part. The upper foam 479, 481 provides controlled vertical compression and the core 548 provides head-to-toe zoning in the mattress apparatus 454. The core 458 includes a block 490 at the end of the head, a block 492 at the end of the feet, a block 494 of slots positioned to be between the blocks 490, 492 of the end of the head and the end of the feet, and the blocks in zones 410, 412. As shown in FIG. Figure 25, each block 490, 492, 494 includes an upper side 496 facing toward the padded upper panel 454, an opposite side of the bottom 498 facing the cushioned panel 460, from the opposite bottom and side edges 500 they extend between the two upper and bottom sides 496, 498. Each block 490, 492, 494 of the core 488 has a preselected, individual block firmness. Illustratively, each block 490, 492, 494 of the core 488 is constructed of foam rubber, although it is understood that the blocks 490, 492, 494 can be constructed from a wide variety of compressible materials and can be formed as inflatable bladders or Similar. The support and firmness characteristics of the foam rubber can be pre-selected by the vendor to provide users with a trial mattress apparatus that will help them personalize a particular feeling of the mattress. The firmness of the blocks 490, 492, 494 varies approximately between an ILD of about 15 to about 98, although the firmness of the blocks 490, 492, 494 may vary in accordance with the present invention. Each block 490, 492, 494 of the core 488 has a block, pre-selected, individual firmness, it being understood that the blocks 490, 492, 494 may have identical strengths, if desired. As shown in Figure 24, the core zone blocks 410, 412 are placed to be in general alignment with the user's lumbar region and the thigh region. Blocks 410, 412 are constructed of foam rubber, although it is understood that blocks 410, 412 may be constructed of a wide variety of compressible materials or may be formed as air bladders. The firmness and support characteristics of the foam rubber can be pre-selected by the seller to provide users with a trial mattress apparatus that will help them personalize a particular mattress feel. The firmness of the blocks 410, 412 varies approximately between an ILD of about 15 to about 98. It is understood that the firmness of the blocks 410, 412 may vary in accordance with the present invention. The first block 410 is positioned to be between and abut longitudinally with the block 490 at the end of the head and the block of the buttocks 494. In this way, the first block 410 is generally aligned with the user's lumbar region (not shown) when the user's head is placed adjacent the block 490 of the head end on the upper plush panel 454. In addition, the first block 410 has a pre-selected firmness. Preferably, the firmness of the first block 410 is greater than the firmness of the blocks 490, 494 of the end of the head and of the buttocks, to provide additional support for the lumbar region of the user. The second block 412 is positioned to be between and abut longitudinally with block 492 at the end of the feet and block 494 at the butts. In this manner, the second block 412 is generally aligned with the upper region of the user's thighs (not shown) when the user's head (not shown) is placed adjacent to block 490 at the head end on the cushioned panel , upper 454. The second block 412 has a pre-selected firmness. Preferably, the firmness of the second block 412 is different than the firmness of the first block 410 and greater than the firmness of the blocks 492, 494 of the end of the feet and the buttocks to provide additional support for the user's thighs. It is understood that the firmness of the second block 412 may be less than, or equal to, the firmness of the first block 410 according to the present invention. As shown in Figure 25a, block 410 and block of butts 494 are provided with an anti-tear coating 430. Illustratively, the anti-tear coating 430 is applied to each block 490, 410, 412, 494 and 496, so that the blocks 410, 412 can move in a vertical direction independently of the adjacent blocks 490, 492, 494 allowing the zoning from the head to the tip of the feet. The anti-tear coating may be a coating formed on or applied to the blocks 410, 412, 490, 494, 496 as shown in Figures 1 (a) and 2. The anti-tear coating may also be a sleeve or sleeve. sheath 98 having an interior 100 that receives block 410, 412. Sleeve 98 is made of a material having a low coefficient of friction such as anti-tear and polypropylene or nylon material. In addition, the sliding cover 598 or sleeve 638 as will be described hereinafter, can be used as an anti-tear coating according to the present invention. If the mattress apparatus 452 is made one size to fit a user, each block 410, 412 extends the full width of the central opening 482 to mate the materials section, opposite 480. However, if as shown in Figure 25, the mattress apparatus 452 is made one size to fit two users, the central opening 482 is of a predetermined width 432 and the first and second blocks 410, 412 extend only half the width 432. In In this case, the central opening 482 can receive left and right assemblies 416, 418 side by side of the first and second blocks 410, 412, providing the vendor with eight different mattress test sensations. In this way, each first block 410 of the left and right assemblies 416, 418 couples the block 490 of the end of the head and the block of the butts 494. The second block 412 of the left and right assemblies 416, 418 couples the block 492 of the end of the feet and the block of the butts 494. In addition, the blocks 410, 412 of the left set 416 around the blocks 410, 412 of the right set 418, longitudinally. It is understood that the mattress apparatus 452 can be used to provide the user with multiple configurations of firmness in a base, such as a bed of springs, a stationary bureau and a bed, a bureau for articulating a bed, or the like. The mattress apparatus 452 may also rest on a floor, a table, or any upward, generally flat, surface without exceeding the scope of the invention as currently claimed. The mattress apparatus 452 of the present invention is capable of providing each user with at least four different firmness configurations, depending on the orientation of the mattress apparatus 452 relative to the user. Each of these four firmness configurations will have a unique sensation of compression, controlled from the head to the tip of the feet, and vertical. For example, the user can experience two firmness configurations when resting on the upper, padded panel 454. Once in the upper, padded panel 454, the user's head can be placed above either the 490 block at the end of the cushion. head or block 492 of the end of the feet, each having a pre-selected firmness. When the user's head is placed on the block 490 of the head end, the user's lumbar region will be aligned with the first block 410 having the first block firmness. When the user's head is placed on block 492 of the end of the feet, the user's lumbar region will be aligned with the second block 412 having the second block firmness. In order for the user to experience the two additional configurations of firmness, the mattress apparatus 452 must be simply adjusted so that the user will be in the padded panel, of the bottom 460. Since the bottom foam 481 of the top adjacent to the panel 460 has a different firmness than upper foam 479 on the upper side adjacent to panel 454, the user will experience a different, complete, compression, controlled, vertical sensation. Zoning from head to toe will also vary depending on whether the user's head is placed on block 490 of the end of the head, or on block 492 of the end of the feet as previously described. While the mattress apparatus 452 has been described with reference to a sales test apparatus, it is understood that the mattress apparatus 452 may be purchased by the user for personal use in the home or other care facility. In addition, the mattress 452 is configured to provide the user with a favorite combination of firmness, depending on the position of the user's head, and the orientation of the mattress 452 relative to the user. In another embodiment of the present invention, shown in Figure 26, a mattress 552 is provided which allows a user to upgrade from the two-dimensional zoning to the three-dimensional zoning at a low cost. The mattress 552 achieves three-dimensional zoning at a low cost by providing a one-piece bladder 590 of a plurality of zone blocks 592 mounted in bladder 590. The combination of the one-piece bladder 590 and the zone blocks 592 above Bladder 590 can provide the "feel" of a cheaper system that includes a multi-chamber air mattress. The mattress 552 can be upgraded, meaning that the user can upgrade to the bladder 590 from a less expensive foam, conventional springs, water pipes, or the like. The zone blocks 592 will cooperate with the foam to provide controlled, vertical compression as well as controlled compression of the head to the tip of the feet. In Figure 26 there is shown the upgraded mattress 552 which has a three dimensional zoning and includes a cushioned panel, upper 554 having a perimeter edge 556 and a lower, cushioned panel 560. The cushioned panels, upper and lower 554, 560 cooperate for defining a mattress interior 572 that houses the bladder 590. The lower, cushioned panel 560 includes an upstanding panel portion 562 constructed of a foam / fiber mixture and a side portion 566 extending upwardly. The side portion 566 includes an upper edge 568 that engages the perimeter edge 556 with a zipper or closure. It is understood that the upper and lower cushioned panels 554, 560 can be coupled together by hooks, snaps and the like according to the present invention. Also, it is understood that a seam may be used to couple the panels 554, 556 in a joint manner without exceeding the scope of the present invention. The mattress 552 includes a frame 574 that is received inside the mattress 572. The frame includes a foam section 576 of the end of the head, a foam extension 578 of the end of the feet and longitudinal foam sections 580 extending longitudinally, attaching to the sections 576, 578 at the end of the head and the end of the feet, to define a central opening 582. Hook and eye fasteners 579 are mounted on sections 576, 578, 580 of frame 574 as will be discussed later. It is understood that the fasteners may be hooks, snaps and the like according to the present invention. Referring to Figure 27, the frame 574 rests on the panel portion 562 of the lower, cushioned panel 560 and the blocks 592 are positioned to be between the bladder 590 and the upper, cushioned panel 554. The upper, cushioned panel 554 constructed of a material similar to the padded, lower panel 560 and configured to minimize the user's ability to perceive the inter-face between the blocks 592 and the frame 574. The bladder 590 is positioned to be within the central opening 582 of the frame 574 and resting on the panel portion 562. The bladder 590 is a one piece air bladder., although it is understood that the bladder 590 may be a water bladder, or a bladder that is suitable for containing other fluids. The bladder is filled with air to a capacity that allows the bladder 590 to be compressed depending on the weight of the load. It is understood that the amount of allowable compression will vary depending on the volume of air within 1-a air bladder 590. As shown in Figure 26, blocks 592 cooperate with air bladder 590 to provide three-dimensional zoning. The zone blocks cooperate to provide controlled, vertical compression and controlled compression, in areas from head to toe, and bladder 590 acts to provide side-by-side zoning based on the volume of air within the bladder 590 Each block 592 extends the full width of the central opening 582 to rest on the opposite side sections 580. In addition, a first of the blocks 592 engages the head section 576, a last of the blocks 592 engages the section 578 of the end of the feet, and the blocks 592 between them are coupled together. The blocks in general are rectangular in shape and include an upper side 553 which couples the panel 554, and the lower side, opposite 555, and opposite sides 557 which abut longitudinally to each other. The upper side 553 of the blocks 592 can be fixed to the upper, cushioned panel 554 to prevent migration in the bladder 590. In addition, the lower side 555 of the blocks 592 includes the hook and eye fasteners 581 cooperating with the fasteners 579 in frame 574 for retaining blocks 592 in their position within mattress interior 572. While two blocks 592 as shown with fasteners 581, it is understood that more or less than two blocks may include fasteners in accordance with the present invention. Furthermore, it is understood that a variety of releasable fasteners such as fasteners, zippers, etc., may be used in accordance with the present invention. Each block 592 can be provided with an anti-tear coating 430 as shown in Figure 25a, so that each block 592 can be compressed in a vertical direction independently of adjacent blocks 592 and provide controlled compression of the head to the tip of the feet. The anti-tear coating 430 is constructed as previously discussed in the specification. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 28, a skid cover 598 may be provided to serve as an anti-tear coating according to the present invention. The covering cover 598 includes an upper member 630 and a bottom member 632 coupled to the upper member 630 so as to form a plurality of pockets or recesses 634 therein. Gaps 634 are separated by seams 636. Referring now to Figure 29, gaps 634 receive blocks 592. In addition, blocks 634 allow individual compression of blocks 592 as shown by arrows 595 with respect to each other. Furthermore, the recesses 634 beneficially inhibit the migration of the blocks 592 within the mattress 552. When the sliding cover 598 is used, the hook and eye fasteners can be sewn to the sliding cover 598 or the sliding cover 598. he can be allowed to simply rest on the frame. The sliding cover 598 as well as the covering 430 allows the independent action of the blocks 592 and in this way the controlled compression of the head to the tip of the feet. The frame 574 and the blocks 592 can be made of a foam rubber such as urethane foam. The frame 574 is firmer than the blocks 592 to provide additional support to the user when entering or leaving the mattress. The firmness and support characteristics of the foam rubber can be customized according to the wishes of the user of mattress 552. The support and firmness characteristics of the foam rubber are customized by techniques previously described in the specification. Although urethane foam is the preferred material for these components, any material that provides support and firmness characteristics similar to those provided by the foam rubber, for example, polyester fiber and latex fiber, can be used without exceeding the scope of the invention as it is currently perceived. If the mattress 552 is for use in an extra-sized or extra-large bed, the central opening 582 is a second width and each block 592 extends only to the middle of the second width. In this case, the central opening 582 can receive left and right sets, side by side, (not shown) of blocks 592. In Figure 30 an alternative embodiment of the mattress apparatus 610 is illustrated. The apparatus 610 has a three dimensional zoning and it includes an upper padded panel 554 and a lower padded panel 560 as discussed previously. The frame 574 cooperates to encircle the blocks 651. The sleeves 638 are provided to act as an anti-tear coating for the blocks 651. Each sleeve 638 includes an upper panel 640, a lower panel 642, and side panels 644 that attach the panels upper and lower 640, 642, together. In addition, the sleeve 638 includes a plurality of spaced gaps 646 therein that are defined by seams 648. Each top panel 640 includes grooves 650 therethrough. The grooves 650 define an opening in the recesses 646 and are sized to receive the zone blocks 651 therebetween. Blocks 651 are similar to blocks 592 that are formed to have a reduced dimension. Similar to the sliding cover 598, the sleeve 638 allows the individual compression of the blocks 651 and thus a three-dimensional zoning. The sleeve 638 allows three-dimensional zoning by allowing vertical zoning ("controlled compression"); the zoning of the head to the tip of the feet; and zoning from side to side. The blocks 651 within the sleeve 638 provide vertical zoning ("controlled compression") and the positioning of the blocks 651 extending between the end of the head 576 and the end of the feet 578 of the frame 574 provides the second support dimension. As shown in Figure 30, the placement of the sleeves 638 gives support variation in a third side-by-side direction. The placement of blocks 651 and sleeves 638 secures blocks 651 in place and provides a pure appearance, durability and ease of assembly. In addition, the sleeves 638 are of a uniform size and shape and are used in mattresses of individual, matrimonial, extra or extra-large size. Uniform dimensions of sleeves 638 allow a manufacturer to reduce inventory. It is understood that the blocks 651 are also of uniform size and shape to extend through the blocks 646. It is also understood that the side panels 644 of the sleeves 638 can be coupled together to form a matrix that prevents the individual sleeves 638 turn around and to retain the sleeves 638 in their position relative to each other. The mattress apparatus 610 also rests on a base 596 such as a box of springs, a stationary bureau of a bed, an articulated bureau of a single bed. The mattress apparatus 610 may also rest on the floor or any other surface than upward, generally flat without exceeding the scope of the invention as it is currently perceived. In another embodiment of the present invention, an economical mattress 652 that allows a three dimensional zoning to be provided. As shown in Figure 31, mattress 652 allows a user to create a customized firmness configuration with controlled, vertical compression and controlled compression from head to toe. To the extent that mattress 652 resembles mattress apparatus 452 illustrated in Figure 24, similar reference numerals will be used to denote similar components. The core 662 of the mattress 652 includes a set of transversely extending blocks 664 made of materials similar to the blocks 592 as discussed or discussed previously. With reference to Figure 31, the core 662 is received in the central opening 482 of the frame 474 and is positioned to be between the lower padded panel 460 and the upper padded panel 454. The blocks 664 of the core 662 are longitudinally butted together the central opening 482 with each other. The blocks 664 include opposite ends 669, an upper side 670, a bottom side, opposite 672, and side edges 673, 675 that extend between them when the mattress 652 is for use in a bed individual, each block 664 extends in the full width of the central opening 482 and the opposite ends 669 engage the opposite side sections 480 in the frame 474. As shown, for example, in Figure 32, the upper side 670 of block 664 is coupled to top 674. The ability of blocks 664 to migrate through central opening 482 is minimized by coupling top 674 to both frame 474 and core 662. In fashion Preferred parts, the blocks 664 are coupled to the side sections 480 at the top 674 by an adhesive 676. It is understood that a wide variety of commercially available adhesives 676 can be used according to the present invention, while the chosen adhesive be compatible with the materials that adhere. In addition, the blocks 664 may be coupled to the side sections 680 at the top 674 by liberal connectors such as hook-and-eye connectors, buttons, snaps, and the like. It is understood that zone blocks 664 may be attached to only top 674 or to only side sections 480 without exceeding the scope of the present invention. With reference now to Figure 33, the anti-tear coating 430 having a low coefficient of friction can be placed to be between each block 664 to encourage movement therebetween. The relative movement allows the zoning of the head to the tip of the feet. For example, since the blocks 664 move relative to one another and will have several levels of firmness, a user resting on the padded panel, upper 454 will experience several levels of firmness from head to toe. It is understood that the sliding cover 598 or sleeve 638 can also be used in accordance with the present invention. However, when more than one sleeve 638 is used, the three-dimensional zoning will result as discussed previously with reference to Figure 30. In a further embodiment of the present invention, a moving support component 710 is provided as shown in FIG. Figure 34. While the support component 710 is shown with the mattress 754, the component 710 is suitable for use with a variety of mattress apparatuses 452, 552, 652, etc. The component 710 includes an inflated, individual 716 air bladder that can be placed with a variety of locations within or on the mattress 710. By moving the component 710, the air bladder 716 provides the user with controlled, localized, selective compression. The bladder 716 is shown in Figure 34 which is positioned between the block 715 and the foam bottom 717 of the frame 474. The bladder 716 can also be positioned to be between the block 715 and the padded panel, upper 454, or between the Padded panel, 454 and the user. The support component 710 can be aligned with the lumbar region of a user. or with any other region such as under the thighs, feet, head of the user, or any of the region, if desired. In addition, bladder 716 is preferably an air bladder and can be inflated and deflated by the user to adjust the firmness of support component 710. Bladder 716 is manipulated by a control system such as that previously described in the reference specification. to portable controller 256. Although a wide variety of commercially available controllers may be used, according to the present invention. In that way, the user of the mattress 754 is allowed to selectively alter the firmness of a particular section of the mattress 754. Figure 35 illustrates yet another embodiment of the present invention, wherein an upper part of the mattress 4090 and a mechanism of 850 union are provided. The connecting mechanism 850 cooperates with an anti-slip material 1036, as will be discussed later herein, to secure the upper part 4190 on a mattress 4052. The upper part 4090 according to the present invention provides the user with a zoning two-dimensional on a wide variety of surfaces. For example, the top 4090 will provide a zoning to a variety of commercially available spring mattresses, individual chamber air mattresses, water beds, and the like. Top 4090 includes a liner 4016 and a set of transversely extending blocks 4664, made of materials similar to blocks 592 as discussed previously, placed to be inside liner 4016. While blocks 4664 are illustrated and describe, it is understood that a foam block with a generally individual, predetermined firmness or a rolled block having a variety of firmness may be used in accordance with the present invention. In any case, the upper portion 4090 is wider than the upper pillow portions 724, 1010, 1210 as will be discussed later herein. - The lining 4016 includes an upper padded panel 4018 and a cushioned bottom panel 4020 coupled to the upper panel 4018 by a seam. However, it is understood that a zipper or other attachment mechanisms such as hooks could be used., buttons, tabs and the like for coupling the padded panels, upper and lower 4018, 4012, together. Indeed, when a seam is not used to couple the upper bottom panels 4018, 4012 together, the blocks 4664 are held in an adjacent relationship relative to each other by a sleeve 4050 (Figure 35c). The bottom panel 4020 includes side walls 4022 that extend upward toward the top panel 4018 to define an interior region 4024 in which the blocks 4664 are received. In addition, the top 4090 can be formed with a "summer top" "and a" winter top "as will be discussed later herein with reference to top pillow mount 1010. If the top 4090 is for the use of an extra-large bed (not shown) or an extra-size bed (not shown), each block 4064 extends over the middle of the interior region 4024. In this case, the top 4090 may alternatively include side-by-side combinations that include a set of zone foam blocks 4664, a sculpted foam core (not shown), and an air bladder (not shown). Handles 103 are attached to the side walls 4022 of the upper portion 4090. As shown in Figure 35a, each handle 103 includes opposite ends 119 of a handle portion 121. The handle portion 121 cooperates with the upper portion 4190 to define a clamping opening 123. The upper part 4090 according to the present invention is configured to be in a mattress 4052 having an outer skin 4102, frame 574, and a one piece air grating 4106. The lining 4102 includes the upper panel 4108 and a bottom panel 4120. The bottom panel 4120 includes side walls 4122 that extend upward toward the upper panel 4108 to define an interior region 4124 in which the frame 574 and the frame 574 are received. bladder 4106. The handles 101 are attached to the side walls 4122. As shown in Figure 35a, each handle 101 includes spaced ends 113 and a handle portion 115 therebetween. The handle portion 115 cooperates with the side portion 4066 of the mattress 4052 to define a grip opening 117. The handles 10 are positioned to be vertically adjacent to the handles 103 once the top 4190 is placed in the mattress 4052. In so much that the mattress 4052 is illustrated and described, it is understood that the interior region 4124 of the mattress may include foam, conventional springs, water tubes, or the like according to the present invention. The mattress 4052 is configured to be in the mattress base 120, as shown in Figure 35b. The base 120 has fasteners 4121 type hook and eyelet attached thereto. The base 120 may be any number of a variety of platforms, such as a bed of springs, a stationary bureau of a bed, an articulation bureau of a bed, or the like. The mattress 4052 can also rest on a floor or any other surface that faces upwards, generally flat, without exceeding the scope of the invention as it is currently perceived. The connecting mechanism 850 includes at least one belt 105 which is made in size for extension through the gripping openings 117, 123 of the respective handles 101, 103. Referring now to Figure 36, the belt 105 that includes a first end 107 with hook-and-eye fasteners 109, 129 and a second end 111 having fasteners 139 of the hook-and-eye type. Although fasteners 109, 129, 139, hook-and-eye type, are illustrated and described, it is understood that various releasable or permanent fastening mechanisms such as snaps, buttons, adhesives, zippers, rivets and the like are not outside the scope of the present invention. For coupling the upper part 4190 to the mattress 4052, the second end 111 of the belt 105 extends through the holding openings 117, 123 of the handles 101103 as shown in Figure 35b and the fasteners 139 engage the hook-and-eye fasteners 4121 on the base 120. The first end 107 of the belt 105 is then folded over the handle 103 so that they engage with each other the fasteners 109, 129 type hook and eyelet. Although only two handles 101, 103 are illustrated on top 4190 and mattress 4052, it is understood that any number of handles could be provided, such as four or more handles or as few as four handles, as desired in each case. one. Furthermore, insofar as the mattress 4052 is illustrated, it is understood that the union mechanism 850 is suitable for use in a wide variety of mattresses. According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, a mattress 752 is provided and illustrated in Figure 37. The mattress 752 includes a fabric liner 720, a frame 774 positioned to be within the liner 720, zone blocks 810 that they provide a dimensional zoning, blocks of the section of the buttocks 812, a block 814 of the lumbar section, an upper part 722, and a pillow top 724 that includes the flexible straps 726 that extend around the tissue lining 720 for coupling the upper pillow 724 to the liner 720. The frame 774 includes a head section 776 of foam, a foam section 778 of the foot end, and side foam sections 780 extending longitudinally, which connect sections 776, 778 at the end of the head and the end of the feet to define a central opening 782. Releasable connectors 730 are coupled such as hook-type connectors and eye to sections 776, 778 and top 772 to retain top frame 774 from the top. It is understood that releasable connectors such as buttons, snaps and the like can be used without exceeding the scope of the present invention. As shown in Figure 37, the zone blocks 810, the blocks 812 of the section of the buttocks, and the block 814 of the lumbar section are made the size for placement within the central opening 782 of the frame 1 1 4 . Blocks 810, 812, and 814 are constructed of foam rubber, although it is understood that blocks 810, 812, and 814 may be constructed from a wide variety of compressible materials or may be formed as air bladders. The firmness and support characteristics of the foam rubber can be pre-selected by the seller or customer. It is also understood that the mattress 752 may include any number of blocks 810 in any number of sections, the mattress 752 may include only blocks of the type in the seat section 812 shown in Figures 37 and 38, the mattress 752 may include only blocks if it is the type in the lumbar section 814 shown in Figures 37 and 39, or the mattress 752 may include both blocks of the types in the sections of the buttocks and the lumbar region 812, 814 according to the present invention. Referring now to Figure 38, each set block 812 is a composite block 818, which provides the user with controlled, targeted compression. The composite block 818 includes a softer upper section 820, a solid core section 822 and a lower, soft section 824. The composite block 818 is illustratively about four inches (10.2 cm) thick by a core 822 of approximately two. inches (5.1 cm) thick. The upper and lower sections 820, 824 are approximately one inch (2.5 cm) thick and cover the core section 822. It is understood that the dimensions of the composite block 818 may vary without exceeding the scope of the present invention. As shown in Figure 38a, where the user is reclining in block 812, the load is generally evenly distributed through soft layer 820 causing soft layer 820 to compress slightly to absorb the load. As shown in Figure 38b, when the user rises to a sitting position, significant compression occurs in layers 820, 824 while the central core remains relatively in position to provide support. In this way, when in the sitting position, the weight of the user is directed downwardly against the core 822 instead of being distributed across the entire surface of the composite block 818. In this way, the composite block 818 provides a sensation softer (See Figure 38 (a) when the weight of the user is distributed across the entire surface of the composite block 818 (and compressed only in the upper section 820) plus necessary firmness when (Figure 38 (b) most of the weight of the user is directed towards the core 822. The upper and lower sections 820, 824 can be coupled to the core 822 by releasable or permanent clamping mechanisms such as adhesives, hook-and-eye fasteners, belts, sleeves and the like Although the thickness and number of layers of the composite block 818 are illustrated and described, it is understood that a variety of thicknesses and layers can be used as long as a firm core is surrounded by softer, higher and higher sections. In accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention, the lumbar block 814 is provided for use with the mattress 752, to provide greater resolution in zoning from the head to the tip of the feet As shown in the Figure 39, the lumbar block 814 includes a composite block 830 having three sections 832, 834, 836 positioned to be in a side-by-side relationship.Sections 832, 834, 836 have predetermined firmness levels. rminados to provide a desired firmness to a predetermined "attractive point" of the user. Illustratively, composite block 830 includes a firm center section 832 and softer, side sections 834, 836 positioned to be on either side of center section 832. In this way, lumbar block 814 provides firmness to an "attractive site". "user's default, in that it provides softer support on either side of that pre-determined attractive point. It is understood that the center section 832 is not necessarily firmer than the side sections 834, 836 since the firmness of the sections 832, 834, 836 may vary without the scope of the present invention being exceeded. As shown in Figure 39, the side sections 834, 836 of the lumbar block 814 are positioned to be adjacent to different blocks 810 in a series of blocks 810 to provide zoning of the head to the tip of the foot, sought. The composite block 830 illustratively extends nine inches (22.9 cm) between the blocks 810 and is four inches (10.2 cm) deep. The center section 832 is three inches (7.6 cm) wide and each of the two side sections is three inches (7.6 cm) wide to form the width of nine inches (22.9 cm) of the composite block 814. The sections laterals 834, 836 can be attached to the central section 832 by the releasable or permanent fastening mechanism such as adhesives, hook-and-eye type dryers, sleeves, belts, and the like. The mattress structure 900 according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figures 40 and 41 and provides the user with three dimensions of zoning. The mattress structure 900 includes a fabric liner 720, zone blocks 910, foam side rails 974, foam end rails 975, a skid cover 976 a top portion 912, an air chamber 914 positioned to be between the blocks 910 and upper portion 912, and upper pillow 724. Upper portion 912 provides controlled, vertical compression and includes flexible belts 978 configured to extend around air chamber 914 and blocks 910 to retain upper portion 912 in the chamber 914. The belts 978 are attached to the upper portion 912 using an adhesive, although it is understood that a wide variety of releasable and non-releasable fastening mechanisms such as hook-and-eye fasteners, snaps, buttons, and seams can be used. , according to the present invention. The individual blocks 910 have a variety of sizes and levels of firmness that can vary to create zones within the mattress structure 900 of varying firmness. In this way, the blocks 910 produce a "custom" mattress structure 900 that is provided to fit the needs of a particular size and shaped person (not shown) of the air bladder mattress structure 900, to provide the user with a three-dimensional zoning, as discussed previously. Blocks 910 and top 912 are preferably constructed of a foam material similar to blocks 592 and top 586. As shown in Figure 40, air chamber 914 is positioned to be on blocks 910 The chamber 914 can be selectively inflated and provides the user with side-by-side zoning. The air chamber 914 is capable of approximately 2.5 inches (6.4 cm) thick. In this way, the thin air chamber 914 placed on the blocks 910 is configured to allow the user to be in the bed 900 to adjust the amount of air in the air chamber 914 and in this way the feeling of firmness on the side side of bed 900, as well as the increase or reduction of zoning from the head to the tip of the feet by varying the pressure in the air chamber. It is understood that the thickness in the air chamber 914 can be varied according to the present invention. Referring now to Figure 41, the air chamber 914 includes a plurality of interior supports 920 therein. The inner supports 920 cooperate to define the air channels 922 in the air chamber 914. The air channels 922 may be in fluid communication with each other or be individual channels. The controller 990 allows the user to inflate or deflate the channels 922 to provide a desired mattress feel. The controller 990 may be a portable or board-mounted controller of the head / side board according to the present invention. It is understood that the controller can be any of a wide variety of controllers as previously described herein or any of a variety of commercially available inflate / inflate controllers. As shown in Figure 42, a pillow top assembly 1010 according to the present invention provides sleeping surfaces, separate for the hot summer months, and the colder winter months. The pillow top assembly 1010 includes a liner 1016 and a foam pad 1014 positioned to be inside the liner 1016. The liner 1016 includes an upper padded panel 1018 that has thermal properties designed for the comfort of sleeping during the colder months and a cushioned bottom panel 1020 having thermal properties designed for comfort to sleep during the hottest months. The pillow top assembly 1010 according to the present invention is configured to be in a mattress, a mattress covering, or a mattress replacement system 1022 (subsequently "mattress"). As shown in Figure 42, the mattress 1022 has an end for the head 1024, end of the feet 1026 longitudinally spaced from the end of the head 1024, a first edge 1028 extending longitudinally therebetween, and a second edge 1024. which extends longitudinally 1030 apart from the first edge 1028. In addition, the mattress 1022 includes an upper panel 1032. As used throughout the description and claims, the phrase "head end" will be used to denote the end of any referenced object that is positioned to be closer to the end of the head 1024 of the mattress 1022 and the phrase "end of the feet" will be used to denote the end of any referenced object that is placed to be closer to the end of the feet 1026 of the mattress 1022. The phrase "first edge" will be used to denote the edge of any referred object that is placed to be closer to the first edge 1028 of the mattress 1022 and the fr "Second edge" will be used to denote the edge of any referenced object that is placed to be closer to second edge 1030 of mattress 1022. Also, unless otherwise noted, identical numbering of the elements of mounting 1010 of Pillow top will be used in alternative modes. As discussed previously, the control 1022 can be any mattress for use in a home, a mattress for use in a hospital or other care facility, or any other type of mattress that has a surface 44 that of upwards, above which rest a person. The illustrative mattress 1022 supports the top 1010 assembly of the pillow of the present invention. The pillow top assembly 1010 rests on the upper panel 1032 so that the upper pillow mounting 1010 is outside the interior of the mattress (not shown). In accordance with the present invention, the pillow top assembly 1010 includes a series of four belts 1034, a belt 1034 positioned adjacent to each corner. The pillow top assembly 1010 is secured to the mattress 1022 by rotating each strap 1034 over a respective corner of the mattress 1022. The straps 1034 of the pillow top are used in conjunction with anti- freezing material that the top of the pillow 1010 is restricted. The top pillow assembly 1010 can also be freely on the mattress 1022 or the mattress 1022 can be attached by the use of hook-and-eye fasteners or other suitable coupling means. Although four belts 1034 are illustrated in assembly 1010, it is understood that more or less than four belts could be provided, in accordance with the present invention. The liner 1016 of the pillow upper mount 1010 accommodating the pad 1014 includes the upper padded panel 1018 which cooperates with the cushioned bottom panel 1020 to define an inner region 1046 therebetween. As shown in Figure 43, the upper padded panel 1018 is preferably constructed of a sheet or sheet of adhesive 1048, a layer of foam 1050 constructed of polyurethane foam and positioned to be adjacent to the sheet or sheet of adhesive 1048 , a winter layer 1052 constructed of a wool / polyester blend or pure wool or anti- microbial polyester fiber positioned to be adjacent to the foam layer 1050 having a first heat resistance, and a 1054 fabric constructed of rayon, Cotton or a Damask cotton blend fabric that covers the reverse layer 1052. However, it is understood that the 1054 fabric can be constructed from a wide variety of natural or synthetic fibers that are used in the manufacture of the fabric including non-permeable fabric to liquids and air. Additionally, an upper cushion panel 1018, not permeable to liquids and air and the cushioned panel 1020 can be used without exceeding the scope of the present invention. The foam layer 1050 provides a controlled, vertical, predetermined compression to the user. The foam layer 1050 is relatively soft to allow the user to sink into the reverse layer 1052. In this way, a greater percentage of the user's surface area that couples the winter layer 1052 provides a warm feeling to the wearer. The cushioned bottom panel 1020 is constructed of an adhesive sheet 1048, a foam layer 1056 constructed of polyurethane foam positioned to be adjacent to the adhesive sheet 1048, a summer layer 1058 constructed of a polyester fiber anti- microbial or wool / polyester blend or pure wool positioned to be adjacent to foam layer 1056 and having a second heat resistance, and fabric 1054 covering summer layer 1058 as shown, for example, in Figure 43 In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the foam layer 1056 of the cushioned bottom panel 1020, located next to the summer layer 1058, is made of the foam having a second firmness that is greater than the foam layer 1050. of the upper padded panel 1018, placed next to the invert layer 1052. In this way, a smaller percentage of the user's surface area that couples the summer layer 1058 provides a cooler sensation to the user and makes the foam having a second firmness that is greater than that of the foam layer 1050. As described above, the preferred embodiment of the present invention does not include upper and bottom cushioned panels 1018, 1020 having a different thermal resistance. For example, when the reverse dandruff 1052 of the upper padded panel 1018 is constructed of a wool / polyester blend, effectively creates a "winter top layer" due to its high thermal resistance. Likewise, when a summer layer 1058 of the cushioned panel of the bottom 1020 of a polyester fiber with antimicrobial is constructed, an "upper summer part" is effectively created due to its low thermal resistance to the growth of unwanted organisms. In this way, the "summer top" provides the user with a feeling to the colder skin and the "top of winter" provides the user with greater thermal resistance and therefore a warmer feeling to the skin. Therefore, during the colder months of winter, the upper part of winter can be placed closer to the user. When the weather becomes colder, the pillow top assembly 1010 can be turned over so that the summer top layer is closer to the person sleeping. In this way, the pillow top assembly 1010 provides two sides with different thermal properties for different environmental conditions that occur with the change of seasons. In addition, the winter layer 1052 can be more plush than the summer layer 1058. In this way, more of the user's surface area couples the surface of the reverse layer 1052 and the winter layer if it feels warmer to the wearer. The summer layer 1058 may be firmer than the invert layer 2063. In this way, the user sinks in the summer layer 1058 less than the winter layer 1052, less the user's surface area couples the summer layer 1058 , and therefore more than one user is exposed to the air and is colder. Additionally, turning the pillow top layer assembly 1010 for different stations will increase the longevity of the assembly 1010 and even the use. As shown in Figure 43, the upper tufted panel 1018 includes a first perimeter edge 1060 and the cushioned bottom panel 1020 includes a second perimeter edge 1062 that engages a first perimeter edge 1060 in a 1064 seam. so much that seam 1064 is illustrated and described, it is understood that a releasable fastener such as zippers and the like can be used in accordance with the present invention. As shown in Figures 42 and 43, the upper and bottom cushioned panels 1018, 1020 are cushioned. The cushion 1066, according to the present invention, runs through each layer 1018, 1020, and individually, but the cushioning could run in all directions through the pillow top assembly 1010 without exceeding the scope of the present invention. In this way, the cushion 1066 can provide an aesthetic appearance as well as a structural support to the pillow top assembly 1010. The pad 1014 is within the inner region 1046 of the liner 1016. The pad 1014 cooperates to form a pillow top assembly 1010, one piece, easy to assemble, with predetermined vertical, controlled compression. As shown in Figure 42, pad 1014 is formed as a relatively flat rectangular block and has a predetermined, uniform firmness. As shown in Figures 42 and 43, the pad 1014 is positioned to be between the top and bottom cushion panels, 1018, 1020 in the inner region 1046 of the liner 1016 and extends from the head end 1024 to the end of the 1026 mattress feet 1022. The adhesive sheets 1048 provide additional structural support for the mounting of the upper pillow 1010 to serve as an adhesive connection between the upper cushioned panels and the bottom 1018, 1020 and the pad 1014. pad 1014 can also be sculpted to a desired shape or formed from a piece of foam having a firmness that varies along its length or across its width without exceeding the scope of the invention as it is currently perceived . In accordance with the present invention, an anti-skid material 1036 is provided to inhibit the sliding movement of the pillow top assembly 1010 on the top panel 1032 adjacent the anti-skid material 1036. The anti-skid material 1036 is particularly useful in the beds of articulation (not shown) when a movement may occur between the mattress 1022 and the pillow top assembly 1010 during the articulation of the mattress 1022. In addition, the non-slip material 1036 inhibits the sliding movement of the top 1010 assembly of pillow when the user is entering or exiting the mattress 1022. The pillow top assembly 1010 includes a head region 1038, a settling region 1040, and a region of the feet 1042. A non-slip material 1036 is placed. to be between the region of the seat 1040 and the mattress 1022. Because the non-slip material 1036 can not be placed between the regions of the head and feet 1038, 1042, and the mattress 1022, the sliding movement in the articulation beds between the mattress 1022 and the regions 1038, 1042 of the head and feet is allowed. This movement allows the regions 1038, 1042 of the head and feet to conform to the underlying movement of the mattress 1022 due to the articulation of the articulation bed while the region of the buttocks 1040 of the mount 1010 of the pillow top remain generally stationary relative to the region of the 1040s of the 1022 mattress. This relative movement between the pillow top and the mattress minimizes the "shear stress" between the surface and the patient. An anti-skid 1036 material is made from Sleep Tight® (polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in a polyester chambray), rubber foam, or any suitable material that will restrict movement of the 1010 assembly of the top of the pillow with relationship to mattress 1022 adjacent to non-slip material 1036. As shown in Figure 44, a pillow top assembly 2110 provides the user with a two-dimensional zoning. Specifically, the assembly includes a series 2112 of standardized zone blocks 2114 that cooperate to provide controlled, vertical compression and zoning from the head to the tip of the feet. The 2110 pillow top assembly allows a user to zonify the head to the toe in an indoor, conventional spring mattress, conventional water mattress, or a conventional single chamber air bladder to achieve both the zoning and the adjustable firmness at a low cost than the air bladders alustables. Each block 2114 in the series 2112 is constructed of a foam material similar to blocks 592 and has an individual level of firmness. In this way, the blocks 2114 of different levels of firmness create zones within the assembly 2110 of a pillow top of several firmness. In this way, the series 2112 produces a "personalized" pillow top portion 2110 or top, as discussed previously, provided to fit the needs of a person of particular size and shape (not shown) to provide the user with the desired firmness characteristics. The assembly of the modular blocks 2114 is completed by using the liner 1016 which extends to the blocks 2114 and holds them securely in their pre-determined positions. As with the pillow top assembly 1010, the pillow top assembly 2110 and other pillow top mounting embodiments described herein may be reduced, meaning that the 2110 pillow top assembly and other Modes of the pillow top mounts mentioned below include a summer top and a winter top, opposite as described in detail above with respect to the pillow top assembly 1010. As shown in Figure 44, the blocks 2114 are generally rectangular in shape. Blocks 2114 are formed to include an upper surface 2168 that faces toward the upper, cushioned panel 1018, a bottom surface 2170 that faces toward the cushioned bottom panel 1020, opposed side edges 2172 extending between the upper and lower surfaces 2168, 2170 and first and second ends 2174, 2176 extending between the top surface 2168 and a bottom surface 2170. The second end 2176 of a first block 2178 in the series 2112 is butted and fixed to the first end 2174 of a second block 2180 in the series 2112 to form a contact junction 2182 between these. Similarly, the second end 2176 of the second block 2180 is butted and fixed to the first end 2174 of the third block 2184 to form a contact junction 2182 therebetween. The third block is butted with a fourth block 2188 and the fourth block is butted to a fifth block 2190 in a similar manner. However, the blocks 2114 do not need to be coupled together in accordance with the present invention. The first, third and fifth blocks 2178, 2184, 2190 are preferably made of foam of substantially the same degree of firmness. The second and fourth blocks 2180, 2188 are preferably made of a foam having a greater degree of firmness than the first, third and fifth blocks 2178, 2184, 2190. This arrangement provides symmetry to the pillow top assembly 2110. It is understood that the blocks 2114 may be formed as trapezoids, rectangles, combs, or any number of shapes that are capable of being jointly fitted into a contact joint to form the series 2112 of the blocks 2114 extending between the end of the head 1024 and the end of feet 1026 of mattress 1022 without extending the scope of the present invention. It is also understood that the firmness of the assembly 2110 can be varied by including an individual block 2114 with coils to provide zoning from head to toe. The illustrative blocks 2114 in the series 2112 are constructed in the same manner and have similar firmness intervals as the blocks 92 discussed previously. The actual degree of firmness of the blocks 1114 can be pre-selected to provide a range of choices for the end user. For example, firmness arrangements can be pre-selected to offer the user a "soft" pillow top mount, a "medium" pillow top mount that has area blocks with a greater degree of firmness than the mounting of soft pillow upper part, or a "hard" pillow top assembly that has area blocks with a greater degree of firmness than the middle pillow top assembly. In this way, customers can select their degree of firmness from the pre-selected selections. Many degrees of firmness in addition to the three mentioned above can also be designed in a pillow top assembly 2110 in accordance with the present invention. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a heat dispersing apparatus 1140 is provided which is suitable to be placed between the pillow top assembly 1010 and the mattress 1022 as shown, for example, in Figure 45. The dispersing apparatus 1140 provides the user with a thermal sensation similar to a water bed without the weight or risk of tearing and cooling the user when the mass of the apparatus 1140 is at an ambient temperature that is lower than the user's body temperature. It is understood that the apparatus 1140 can also be positioned to be between a wide variety of pillow and mattress top assemblies, while the pillow top assembly is not too thick to act as an insulator that prevents heat from reaching to user. The heat dispersing apparatus 1140 includes a waterproof liner 1142 defining an interior cavity 1144, the gel 1146 positioned to be in the cavity 1144, and at least one heating element 1148. The heating element 1148 can be any number of commercially available wire heating pads, configured to be separated from the gel 1146, or can be integral with the apparatus 1040 (not shown) such that the element 1048 is immersed in the gel 1146. The gel 1146 suitable for use with the present invention is thermally conductive, provides a heat sink, and masks the feeling of the wires of the heating element 1148 of the user. However, it is understood that while a gel is illustrated and described, a wide variety of dense, thermally conductive materials, such as dense foam, may be used in accordance with the present invention. The desired heating characteristics of the apparatus 1140 may vary according to the present invention, depending on the thermal conductivity and gel density 1146, the number of heating elements 1148, and the size of the apparatus 1140. The apparatus 1140 maintains the heat generated by heating elements 1148 and uniformly dissipates heat through gel 1146 and thus through mattress 1022. Apparatus 1140 or heat disperser provides the user with the ability to pre-heat assembly 1010 of pillow top before use or to provide a source of warm-up during sleep. In one embodiment, the apparatus 1140 creates a heat region 149 that allows the user to customize the pillow top assembly 1010 to the user's pre-determined heating specifications. For example, a person with back complaints may want to warm his lower back separately from the rest of his body. Additionally, a person may wish to warm their lower legs and feet separately from the rest of their body during the winter. Many other combinations of 149 independent heat regions are also available for medical, comfort and other reasons. The heat region 149 is created by placing a localized heating element 1148 adjacent to the desired heat region 149. While the apparatus 1140 is illustrated and described, other heat sources and heating elements 1148 can be used in accordance with the invention. the pillow top assembly 1010 of the present invention. As shown in Figures 46, 47 and 49, yet another mount 1210 of top of pillow or top, according to the present invention is provided. The 1210 pillow top assembly provides dimensional zoning to users. Specifically, the pillow top assembly 1210 includes two series 1212, 1213 of zone blocks, standardized 1214 for the mattress 1022 where more than one person sleeps. The individual blocks 1214 in each series 1212, 1213 cooperate to provide both controlled vertical compression and zoning from head to toe. The blocks 1214 are constructed from foam materials similar to the blocks 592, have a variety of sizes and levels of firmness, and create zones within the multi-firmness pillow upper 1210 assembly. In this way, a series 1212, 1213 produces a "custom" assembly 1210 to suit the needs of the person of particular size and shape or to provide each user with their desired firmness characteristics. The liner 1016 encloses the blocks 1214 and holds them securely in a pre-determined position. The assembly 1210 can also be formed with a series 1212 of blocks 1214 according to the present invention. The blocks 1214 are within the inner region 1046 of the liner 1016. As shown in Figure 46, the zone blocks 1214 are generally of a uniform shape and are placed in a side-to-side relationship within the interior region 1046 between upper and bottom 1018 cushioned panels, 1020. In addition, the blocks 1214 extend from the end of the head 1022 to the end of the feet 1026 of the liner 1016 extending from the end of the head 1022 to the end of the feet 1026 of the mattress 1022. Sheets can be used of adhesive (not shown) to provide additional structural support for the top pillow assembly 1210 to serve as an adhesive connection between the upper and bottom cushioned panels 1018, 1020 and the blocks 1214. Referring now to Figure 47, the blocks 1214 sculpt to a rectangular shape and provide both controlled vertical compression and zoning from the head to the tip of the feet. It is understood that the blocks 1214 can be formed as trapezoids, channels, any number of shapes that are capable of fitting together in a contact junction without exceeding the scope of the present invention. However, blocks 1214 need not necessarily be coupled together in accordance with the present invention. The blocks 1214 are formed to include in the upper surface 1254 that faces the upper padded panel 1018, a bottom surface 1056 that gives the cushioned panel of the bottom 1020, opposed side skins 1058 that extend between the top surface of the bottom 1254, 1256 and the first and second ends 1260, 1262 extending between the upper surface 1254 and the bottom surface 1256. The second end 1262 of a first block 1272 in the series 1212 is butted to the first end 1260 of an adjacent block 1274. in the 1212 series to form a 1264 contact junction before these. The heat dispersing apparatus 1140 allows a user to have two dimensions of zoning as well as the thermal sensation similar to a water bed. The anti-skid material 1036 is positioned to be between the buttocks section 1273 of the pillow top assembly 1212 and the mattress 1022 to prevent movement between the mattress 1022 and the pillow top assembly 1212 during the 1022. In addition, the anti-skid material 1036 inhibits the sliding movement of the pillow top assembly 1212 when the user is entering or leaving the mattress 1022. The anti-skid material 1036 rests on the mattress 1022, although the it is understood that the anti-skid material can be attached to the liner 1016. Referring now to Figure 49, the heat dispersing apparatus 1140 can be positioned between the pillow top assembly 1210 and the mattress 1022. As shown in FIG. Figure 48, yet another pillow top assembly 1310 according to the present invention is provided. The pillow top assembly 1310 includes a series 1312 of the upper zone which has a different firmness than a series 1314 of the lower zone. In this way, the pillow top assembly 1310 provides the user with at least two different firmness sensations depending on whether the user is adjacent to the upper padded panel 1018 or the cushioned panel of the bottom 1020. Specifically, the user will experience a different vertical compression, controlled depending on which cushioned panel 1018, 1020 is coupling to the user. The upper zone series 1312 is positioned to be adjacent to the upper cushion panel 1018 and the bottom zone series 1314 is positioned to be adjacent to the cushioned bottom panel 1020. The panels 1018, 1020 may be formed as summer upper parts and As previously described further, the individual blocks 1316 in the 1312, 1314 series have a variety of sizes and levels of firmness and create areas of firmness from head to toe within the top pillow mount 1310 . This difference is a firmness between the series of upper or lower zone can be created by using blocks 1316 with different density of foam, or by the use of trims or other techniques known to those skilled in the art. Illustratively, the anti-skid material 1036 is positioned to be between the settler section 1373 of the pillow top assembly 1310 and the mattress 1022 to prevent movement between the mattress 1022 and the pillow top assembly 1310 during the Mattress 1022 articulation as discussed previously. In addition, the anti-skid material 1036 inhibits a sliding movement of the pillow top assembly 1310 when the user is entering or exiting the mattress 1022. Referring now to Figure 50, another mounting 2310 of the pillow upper part is provided. according to the present invention. The pillow top assembly includes a series 2312 of blocks 2314 generally in a trapezoidal shape to provide the user with a two dimensional zoning. The individual blocks 2314 in the series 2312 are constructed of a foam material similar to the blocks 592.

The blocks 2314 may have a variety of firmness levels to create zones of various strengths within the pillow top assembly 2310. Mounting of modular blocks 2314 is made easy by using the liner 1016 surrounding the blocks 2314 and holding them securely in their pre-determined position. The blocks 2314 are formed to include an upper surface 2354 facing the upper cushioned panel 1018, a bottom surface 2356 facing the cushioned bottom panel 1020 and then its second angled ends 2360, 2362 that diverge from the outer surface 2354 towards the bottom surface 2356. As shown in Figure 50, the second end 2362 and the first block 2372 in the series 2312 are butted with the first end 2360 of an adjacent block 2374 in the series 2312 to form a contact junction 2364 between these. An anti-tear coating 430 is placed to be in bond 2364 within the first and second ends 2360, 2362 of adjacent blocks 2314 in the series 2312, so that each block 2314 can move independently of the adjacent blocks 2314 and provide a zoning from the "head to the tip of the feet.

It is understood that the blocks 2314 can be formed as curves, rectangles, panels, or any number of shapes that are capable of being adjusted together to form a series 2312 of blocks 2314. In the trapezoidal blocks, illustrative 2314, the second end 2362 of the first 2372 in the series 2312 overlaps the first end 2360 of the adjacent block 2374 in the series 2312. Alternatively, it is understood that the second end 2362 of the first block 2372 in the series 2312 may overlap the first end 2360 of the adjacent block 2374 in the series 2312. It is believed that this overlapping configuration provides gradual change of the firmness of an area block 23 14 to the next block 2314 in the series 2312. The illustrative blocks 2314 in the series 2312 are constructed of the same material as the blocks 94 and the firmness of the blocks 2314 can be varied as previously described for the blocks 94. The blocks 2314 can also be sculpted to a desired shape or they form from a piece of foam having a firmness that varies along its length or across its width without exceeding the scope of the invention as it is currently perceived.

The firmness of each block 2314 can be selected at the point of sale to allow the user to have a customized pillow top mount 2310, without having to wait for a remote factory to build and distribute a part 2310 assembly pillow top Additionally, if the user wishes to change the configuration and firmness of the pillow top assembly 2310, the user can return the pillow top assembly 2310 to the point of sale for adjustment. At the point of sale, blocks 2314 can be removed and replaced to correspond to the user's preference. Referring now to Figure 51, a reversible pillow top assembly 2210 is provided in accordance with the present invention. The pillow top assembly 2210 includes a lower set 2212 of generally trapezoidal shaped blocks 2214 having a different firmness feel than an upper set 2218 of generally trapezoidal blocks 2214 placed to be on the lower set 2212 In this manner, the pillow top assembly 2210 provides the user with at least two different firmness sensations depending on whether the user is adjacent to the upper assembly 2218 or lower assembly 2212. The stacked configuration of the first and second sets 2212, 2218 it allows the user to additionally allow vertical, controlled compression of the upper pillow mount 2210 as well as alter the sensation of zoning from head to toe. As shown in Figure 51, the upper assembly 2212 includes blocks 2214 that extend transversely. The lower set 2218 of blocks 2214 transversely extends through the first set 2212 of blocks 2214. However, it is understood that to achieve some desirable customization, the blocks 2214 within the first and second sets 2212, 2218 may have a variety of firmness, and are placed to be in a variety of configurations. The pillow top assembly includes a summer top and a winter top, opposite as discussed previously with reference to assembly 1010. Thus, preferably firmer foam blocks are placed to be adjacent to the part This summer top prevents the user from sinking into the foam and plush foam blocks adjacent to the top of the winter. The pillow upper mounts 2310 and 2210, divided into areas of Figure 50 and 51 are positioned to be in the anti-skid material 1036 as discussed previously. The anti-skid material prevents slippage of the pillow upper mounts 2310, 2210 when the user enters or leaves the mattress and prevents slipping of the mounts 2230, 2210 adjacent the seating sections during cross-linking of the mattress 1022 The pillow top mounts 2310, 2210 can also be customized for mattresses where more than one person sleeps (not shown). The pillow upper mounts 2310, 2210 can be customized so that a portion of the mattress 1022 provides the firmness characteristics desired by one person and for a portion provides the firmness characteristics of that person's sleeping partner. Therefore, multiple personal preferences can be adjusted with a pillow upper mount 2310, 2210. As discussed or discussed previously, the anti-tear liner 1040 can be positioned to be adjacent between the blocks 1214, 2114, 2214, 2314, so that the blocks 1214, 2114, 2214, 2314 can be moved independently of each other to provide a zoning from the head to the tip of the feet. While only blocks 2314 will be discussed later, it is understood that the discussion of blocks 2314 applies blocks 1214, 2114 and 2214, as well. As shown in Figure 52, a skid cover 1598 can be provided to serve as an anti-tear coating and to join the blocks 2314 together in a single unit according to the present invention. The slide cover 1598 includes a top member 1630 and a bottom member 1632 coupled to the top member 1630 to form a plurality of recesses 1634 therebetween. The recesses 1634 are positioned apart from the seams 1636. Referring now to Figure 53, the recesses 1634 receive the blocks 2314 and the brooches 1'635 are provided to close an opening 1637 to the recesses 1634 to retain the blocks therein. 2314. Gaps 1634 beneficially inhibit the migration of blocks 2314 within the pillow top assembly 2310 and allow independent action of blocks 2314. The independent action of the blocks is shown by arrows 1595 in Figure 53 to provide zoning from the head to the tip of the feet. The sliding cover 1598 is made of a material having a low coefficient of friction such as "parachute material" or nylon. If desired, an alternative sleeve 1638, shown for example in Figure 54, can be provided to act as an anti-tear coating. The sleeve 1638 allows two-dimensional zoning by allowing vertical, controlled compression and zoning from head to toe. the sleeve 1638 includes a top panel 1640, a bottom panel 1642, and sides 1644 that engage the top and bottom panels 1640, 1642 in a joint way. In addition, the sleeve 1638 includes a plurality of spaced gaps 1646 therein that are defined by seams 1648. Cana upper panel 1640 includes at least one groove 1650 therethrough which defines an opening in the gap 1646 and is made one size to receive a block of foam 2314 through it. Blocks 1214, 2114 and 2214 of reduced size can also be used with sleeve 1638 in accordance with the present invention. Similar to the sliding cover 1598, the sleeve 1638 allows for individual compression of the blocks 1651. It is understood that the openings 1646 can be configured in a variety of shapes and sizes to receive the blocks of various sizes and shapes according to the present invention. . As shown in Figure 55, a mattress structure 3010 is provided, which allows a user to upgrade from a two-dimensional zoning to a three-dimensional zoning. The mattress structure 3010 achieves bidimensional zoning by providing a plurality of zone blocks 3016. The mattress structure 3010 can be updated, meaning that the user can upgrade to the bladder 3032 as shown in Figure 56, starting from a top 3024 foam, cheaper. The zone blocks 3016 will cooperate with the foam top 3024 or with the bladder 3032 to provide controlled vertical compression as well as a controlled compression of the head to the toe. Bladder 3032 provides controlled compression from side to side to allow three-dimensional zoning. Referring now to Figure 62, a mattress structure 8010 is provided that is easy to send to a user and that is symmetrical, which allows installation in general to be error-proof. The mattress structure includes a woven lining 3014, the 8016 zone blocks, the 8018 foam side rails, the 8020 foam end rails, and the 3022 skid cover. The 8016 blocks have a variety of sizes and levels of firmness which may vary to create zones within the mattress structure 8010 of varying firmness to provide a "personalized" mattress structure 8010 provided to meet the needs of a person of particular size and shape, or to provide a mattress that has characteristics of firmness, desired. The blocks 8016 are preferably constructed of a foam material similar to the boots 592. As shown in 62, the blocks 8016 are positioned to be inside the slide cover 3022 in the fabric lining 3014. The blocks cooperate with the sliding cover 3022 to form a core portion of the mattress structure 8010. The blocks 8016 are formed from the blocks 3016 are formed in a rectangular shape (See Figures 62 and 63) and include an upper surface 8050 facing the the top panel 3040 of the liner 3014, a bottom structure 8052 facing the bottom panel 3042 of the lining 3014, opposite ends 8054, 8056 and side edges 8058, 8060 extending between the top and bottom surfaces 8050, 8052. As shown in Figure 62, the mattress structure 8010 includes eight blocks 8016. The two blocks 8016 form opposite ends 8062, 8064 while six blocks 8016 form the intermediate segment 8066. it tends that more or less of the eight blocks 8016 may be used without the scope of the invention being exceeded as is currently perceived. Referring now to Figure 63, a portion of the side rail 8018 is positioned to be adjacent to and fixed to the end 8054 of each block 8016 and a portion of the side rail 8018 is positioned to be adjacent and fixed to the opposite end 8056 of each block 8016. A portion of top 8057 is positioned to be adjacent and is fixed to top surface 8050 of each block 8016 and a portion of top 8057 is positioned to be adjacent and fixed to bottom surface 3052. As shown in Figure 63, the terminal rail 8020 is placed to be between the separate rails 8018. The purpose of the 8020 end rails and the 8018 side rails is to build a firm perimeter around the mattress. This firm perimeter serves to prevent the user from falling and improving comfort when sitting on the edge of the bed. As shown in Figure 62, the end rail 8020 is positioned to be between the separate side rails 8018 at opposite ends 8062, 8064. The side and end rails 3018, 3020 and the top 8057 are fixed to the blocks 3016 by an adhesive. It is understood that a wide variety of commercially available adhesives may be used in accordance with the present invention, as long as the adhesive is suitable for use with the material used to form the side and end rails 8018, 8020, 8057 tops, and blocks 8016. Alternatively, the side and end rails 8018, 8020 and the top 8057 can be attached to the blocks 8016 by hook-and-eye connectors, buttons, snaps and the like, without exceeding the scope of the invention. as it is currently perceived. The side and end rails 8018, 8020 and top 3057 are constructed of shell-like materials 574 and blocks 592 as discussed previously. As will be discussed in conjunction with Figure 59, it should be understood that as few as all blocks 8016 can be attached to side rails 8018 according to the present invention. As described above, the side rails 8018, the end or end rails 8020 and the top 8057 of the mattress structure 8010 are integrally coupled to the blocks 8016 by minimizing the number of mounting components for the vendor. or the user. To further simplify the mounting of the mattress structure 8010, the firmness characteristics of the side rails 8018, the end rails 8020, the top 8057, and the blocks 8016 can be selected to be around symmetrically a point at the midpoint of the mattress structure 8010, so that it is impossible to inappropriately place the blocks 8016 in the inner region 3044. The mattress structure 8010 will provide the firmness characteristics expected in spite of the orientation of the blocks 8016 in the inner region 3044 with the condition that the blocks 8016 be arranged in the proper order one relative to the other. The mattress structure 3010 includes a fabric lining 3014, zone blocks 3016, a slide cover 3022, and the pillow top 3024. The individual blocks 3016 have a variety of sizes and levels of firmness that can vary to create zones. within the mattress structure 3010 of various strengths to produce a "customized" mattress structure 3010 provided to fit or meet the needs of a particular size and shaped person (not shown) or to provide a mattress that has the characteristics of firmness, desired. Blocks 3016 are preferably constructed of a foam material similar to blocks 592. Fabric lining 3014 includes a top panel 3040, a bottom panel 3042, and a side wall 3043, which cooperate to define an interior region 3044 between these. The top and bottom panels 3042, 4042 and sidewall 3043 are constructed of a permeable rayon material. However, it is understood that the top and bottom panels 3040, 3042 and side wall 3043 can be constructed from a wide variety of natural and synthetic fabrics that are used in the construction of clothing, such as cotton, wool, polyester, and mixtures thereof. The top and bottom panels, non-permeable to air and liquids can also be used without exceeding the scope of the present invention. The upper panel 3040 of the fabric lining 3014 includes a first perimeter edge 3046 and the bottom panel 3042 includes a second perimeter edge 3048. The upper panel 3040 is constructed of a material having a low coefficient of friction to allow a The pillow upper part moves relative to the mattress structure 3010 minimizing the tear or shear stress to the user. further, the upper panel 3040 may also include a portion having an anti-skid material 1036 affixed thereto, preferably at a central location such as adjacent to the section of the seat 3099, as shown for example in Figure 55. anti-skid material 1036 inhibits the sliding movement of a pillow upper portion 3130 relative to the upper panel 3040 adjacent to the anti-skid material 1036 while the upper panel material allows movement of the pillow upper portion 3130 relative to the upper panel 3040 adjacent to other surfaces of upper panel 3040 during articulation of the mattress. The perimeter edge 3046 of the top panel 3040 defines a first area dimension and the perimeter edge 3048 and the bottom panel 3042 defines a second area dimension that is substantially equivalent to the first area dimension. The first and second area dimensions will vary depending on whether the mattress structure is a mattress of individual size, a mattress of marriage size, a mattress of extra-large size, or an extra-sized mattress. The side wall 3043 extends between the first and second perimeter edges 3Q46, 3048. As shown in Figure 55, the side wall 3043 is coupled to the bottom panel 3042 by a seam and top panel 3040 by a zipper 3041. However, it is understood that hook and eye fasteners, zippers, buttons, fasteners and a wide variety of permanent or releasable coupling mechanism can be used to attach the top panel 3040 and the bottom panel 3042 to the side wall 3043 without the scope of the invention is exceeded as it is currently perceived. As shown in Figure 57, the blocks 3016 are positioned to be within the sliding cover 3022 adjacent the bottom panel 3042 of the fabric liner 3014. The blocks 3016 cooperate with the slide cover 3022 to form a core portion of the structure of the mattress 3010. The blocks 3016 are formed in a rectangular shape (see Figures 56 and 58) and include an upper surface 3050 facing toward the upper panel 3040 of liner 3014, a bottom surface 3052 facing the panel of the bottom 3042 of liner 3014, opposite ends 3054, 3056 and side edges 3058, 3060 extending between surfaces 3050, 3052 of the top and bottom. As shown in Figures 57 and 58, the structure of the mattress 3010 includes eight blocks 3016. Two blocks 3016 form opposite ends 3062, 3064, while the six blocks 3016 form an intermediate segment 3066. It is understood that more can be used. or less than eight blocks 3016 without exceeding the scope of the invention as it is currently perceived. Referring now to Figure 55, a portion of the side rail 3018 is positioned to be adjacent and is fixed to the end 3054 of each block 3016 and a portion of the side rail 3018 is positioned to be adjacent and fixed to the opposite end 3056 of each block 3016. The purpose of the 3020 end rails and the 3018 side rails is to build a firm perimeter around the mattress. This firm perimeter serves to make the user not fall and improves comfort when sitting on the edge of the bed. As shown in Figure 56, end rail 3020 is positioned to be between spaced side rails 3018 at opposite ends 3062, 3064. End and side rails 3018, 3020 are attached to blocks 3016 by an adhesive.

It is understood that a wide variety of commercially available adhesives may be used in accordance with the present invention, while the adhesive is suitable for use with the material used to form the side and end rails 3018, 3020, and blocks 3016. Alternatively, the side and end rails 3018, 3020 can be attached to the blocks 3016 by the hook and eye type connectors, buttons, snaps and the like, without exceeding the scope of the invention as currently exhibited. The side and end rails 3018, 3020 are constructed of shell-like materials 574 and blocks 592, as discussed previously. As will be discussed further in conjunction with Figure 59, it should be understood that less of the blocks 3016 can be attached to the side rails 3018 in accordance with the present invention. As described above, the side rails 3018 and end rails 3020 of the mattress structure 3010 are integrally coupled to the blocks 3016 by minimizing the number of components for assembly by the vendor or the user. To further simplify the mounting of the mattress structure 3010, the firmness characteristics of the side rails 3018, end rails 3020 and blocks 3016 can be selected to be symmetrical about a point at the midpoint of the mattress structure 3010, so that it is impossible to inapriately place the blocks 3016 in the inner region 3044. For example, if each block is of uniform firmness of the side rail 3018 to the side rail 3018; if each portion of side rail 3018 is made of material of the same firmness, if each end rail 3020 is made of material of the same firmness; and if the firmness characteristics of the blocks 3016 vary so that the firmness characteristics of the blocks 3016 (a) are equivalent, the firmness characteristics of the blocks 3016 (b) are equivalent, the firmness characteristics of the blocks 3016 ( c) are equivalent, and the firmness characteristics of blocks 3016 (d) are equivalent; then even when the firmness characteristics of blocks 3016 (a) vary from that of blocks 3016 (b), 3016 (d), or when the firmness characteristics of any of blocks 3016 (b), 3016 (c) , 3016 (d) vary from one another, mattress structure 3010 will provide the expected firmness characteristics despite the orientation of blocks 3016 in inner region 3044 with the condition that blocks 3016 are arranged in the proper order one with relationship to the other. As shown in Figures 55 and 56, the sliding cover 3022 is provided to house the blocks 3016 and the rails 3018, 3020 to allow independent action of the blocks 3016. The sliding cover 3022 therefore allows both compression controlled, vertical as the zoning from the head to the tip of the feet. The sliding cover 3022 is positioned to be adjacent to the bottom panel 3042 of the fabric lining 3014. The slide cover 3022 includes a top panel 3070 that faces away from the phone panel 3042 of the fabric lining 3014 and a bottom panel, opposite 3072 adjacent the bottom panel 342. In addition, a plurality of seams 308 transversely extending (see Figure 57) extends between the upper and bottom opposed panels 3070, 3072 to form a plurality of recesses 3080 between them that receive to blocks 3016 therein. The sliding cover 3022 is made of material having a low coefficient of friction as are the sleeves 98, 598 so as to minimize the friction acting between the blocks 3016, allowing the individual compression of the blocks 3016. In addition , the gaps 3080 inhibit the migration of the blocks 3016 between the inner region 3044 of the lining 3014 and when the blocks 3016 are sent within gaps 3080, the blocks 3016 are retained in their proper order, adding ease of assembly of the mattress structure 3010 as described above. Finally, the sliding cover 3022 allows the blocks 3016 to be folded together to allow efficient storage or shipping in the mattress fabric 3010. In this way, the mattress structure 3010 is easy to deploy since it is symmetrical along the length of the mattress 3010. a central line This fold feature allows the structure to be easily sent. Additionally, sleeve 3022 covers blocks 3016 for an aesthetically pleasing appearance. As shown in Figure 55, the bottom panel 3072 on the slide cover 3022 is formed to include slots 3084 therethrough. The slots 3084 allow the insertion of blocks 3016 and the rails 3018, 3020 into recesses 3080 as shown by the arrows 3081. The slots 3084 that are in the blocks 3016 of the bottom panel 3042. In this way, the friction between the blocks 3016 and panel 3042 inhibits the sliding movement of the sliding cover 3022 relative to the liner 3014. Illustratively, a slot 3084 extends into each recess 3080 although, if desired, multiple slots may be provided to further facilitate the mounting on mattress structure 3010. Slot 3084 is approximately 2 inches (5.1 cm) wide so that block 3016 engages bottom panel 3042 of liner 3014 to inhibit sliding cover 3022 from slipping therein. It is understood that the size as well as the placement of the slot 3084 may vary in accordance with the present invention. As shown in Figure 55, a foam top portion 3024 is placed to be on the slide cover 3022 within the interior region 3044 and the liner 3014 to form the first configuration 3028. The upper portion 3024 extends through the sliding cover 3022 and engages the side wall 3043 of the fabric lining 3014 to be over the zone blocks 3016 and the end and side rails 3018, 3020. The top 3024 is constructed of materials similar to the blocks 3-016. The firmness of the upper part 3024 is less than the firmness of the blocks 3016. However, it is understood that the firmness of the upper part 3024 may be greater than that of the blocks 3016 without exceeding the scope of the present invention. The upper part 3024 includes an upper side 3092 and a bottom side 3094, opposite, facing the sliding cover 3022. The bottom side 3094 is formed to include discontinuities 3096 therein. Illustratively, the bottom side 3094 includes coils. It is understood that the upper part 3024 can be formed without the discontinuities 3096 or that the upper side 3092 can be formed with discontinuities according to the present invention. Top 3024 also includes opposite ends 3098 that have a predetermined height, and side edges 3100 that engage opposite edges 3098 at spaced corners 3102.

As shown in Figure 55, belts 3104 extend from top 3024 to minimize movement of top 3024 from inner region 3044 of fabric liner 3014. Belts 3104 include opposite ends 3106 coupled to upper side 3092 of the upper portion 3024 adjacent each end 3102 and an intermediate portion 3108 extending between the opposite ends 3106. The intermediate portion 3108 serves as a grommet and is made of a size to extend under the slide cover 3022 of the zoned core to attach the top 3024 to it. The straps 3104 are attached to the upper 3024 using hook and eye fasteners. However, it is understood that the straps 3104 can be attached to the core 3024 using a wide variety of adhesives, clips, buckles, ties, buttons, seams or the like according to the present invention. As shown in Figure 56, the mattress structure 3010 can be updated to replace the upper portion 3024 of the first configuration 3028 with a static air bladder 3032 and a thin upper portion 3034 to form a second, updated configuration 3030. The updated 3030 configuration provides a three-dimensional zoning that includes the advantages of zoning from head to toe together with the advantage of stable firmness. The bladder 3032 is positioned to be in the nucleus in areas 3022 within the inner region 3044. The bladder 3032 extends through the nucleus in zones 3032 and engages the side walls 3043 of the tissue lining 3014. In this way, Bladder 3032 is over eight composite zones. Bladder 3032 is inflated and deflated in a preferred manner using air, however any acceptable fluid such as other gases or liquids such as water and water having additives may be used to adjust the viscosity of the resulting liquid to inflate the bladder 3032 without exceeding the scope of the invention as it is currently perceived. In this way, throughout the specification and claims, this fluid will be referred to as air, although it is understood that other fluids can be used. Bladder 3032 is a "one zone" bladder that has a continuous air gap that extends through bladder 3032, so that complete bladder 3032 is inflated and deflated uniformly each time air is added to or from the bladder 3032. Removes from bladder 3032. From illustrative point, bladder 3032 is inflated to a maximum height of approximately 2.5 inches (6.4 cm). However, it is understood that the height of bladder 3032 may vary without exceeding the scope of the present invention. Bladder 3032 may also be a multi-zone air bladder having independently inflatable zones (not shown) without exceeding the scope of the present invention. Bladder 3032 is placed on blocks 3016. Therefore, if bladder 3032 is deflated, blocks 3016 will provide support to the user. Bladder 3032 is constructed from a top sheet 3086 of an air impermeable material that attaches to a bottom sheet 3088 of an air impermeable material around a perimeter. It is understood that the upper or lower sheets 3086, 3088 can be joined together by heat. Specifically, the upper or lower sheet 3086, 3088 are constructed of an outer portion of nylon and an inner portion of urethane. To couple the upper or lower sheets 3086, 3088 together, the inner urethane portions are placed together and heated until the interior portions are joined together. It is understood that the bladder can be formed using a wide variety of techniques, such as a perimeter edge of adhesive to form an air-tight perimeter seal. The upper or lower sheets 3086, 3088 cooperate to decrease an inner region 3090 of bladder 3032 that is impermeable to air, as shown in Figure 60. In addition, the I-3091 links are positioned between the 3090 region and are attached to both the upper sheet 3086 and the lower sheet 3088 in order to establish the fully inflated bladder height 3032 and to provide uniform height through the bladder 3032 when is it used. The I-beams generally extend transversely through the bladder 3032 and are formed to include holes (not shown) through it. The holes allow air to travel through bladder 3032 in the compression of bladder 3032 due to a user moving in bladder 3032 or to the joint of the frame in which bladder 3032 is located.As shown in Figure 58, the slender upper 3034 is positioned to be in the upper sheet 3086 of the bladder 3032. The slender upper portion 3034 has an upper side 3110, an opposite side of the bottom 3112 that faces the bladder 3032 , opposite ends 3114 having a predetermined height, and side edges 3116 (see Figure 59) coupling opposite edges 3114 at separate corners 3118. Bottom side 3112 top 3034 is formed to include discontinuities 3120 therein . Illustratively, the bottom side 3112 includes coils therein. It is understood that the thin upper part 3034 can be formed without the discontinuities 3120 or the upper side 3110 can be formed with coils according to the present invention. As shown in Figure 56, walls 3122 extend from top 3034 to minimize movement of top 3034 and bladder 3032 within region 3044 of fabric liner 3014. Belts 3122 include opposite ends 3124 coupled to the upper area 3110 of the upper portion 3034 adjacent each corner 3118 and an intermediate portion 3126 that serves as an eyelet and extends between the opposite ends 3124. The intermediate portion 3126 is made of a size to extend below the core in zones 3022 for coupling the upper part 3034 thereto. The straps 30122 are attached to the thin upper 3034 using hook and eye fasteners (not shown). However, it is understood that the straps 3122 can be attached to the upper 3034 using a wide variety of "adhesives, fasteners, buckles, ties, buttons, seams, or the like without exceeding the scope of the invention as perceived. currently. In this way, the structure of the mattress 3010 can be interchanged with "" the core 3024 and the bladder 3032 / upper part 3034. A reversible mattress structure 3210 shown for example in Figure 59, can be provided in accordance with the present invention. The mattress structure 3210 is easily shipped and assembled and provides the user with two dimensions of zoning. The structure of the mattress 3210 includes a fabric lining 3214, terminal foam blocks 3215, and a central block 3216, and a cover 3224 formed to receive the blocks 3215 and the central block 3216. The cover 3224 allows the mattress structure to be easily deployed since it is symmetrical along a central line. This folding feature allows efficient storage or shipping of the mattress structure 3210. The cover 3224 on the mattress structure 3210 also allows the blocks 3215, 3216 to be easily placed within the zippered fabric lining 3214. The cover 3224 also helps "auto-locate" the blocks 3215, 3216 within the liner 3214, since the corner seams in the cover 3224 align with the block corners. The central block 3216 and the terminal blocks 3215 cooperate to define firmness characteristics for the structure of the mattress 3210. For example, the blocks 3215, 3216 can provide the user with various degrees of vertical, controlled compression and zoning from the head to the tip of the head. the feet. It is understood that the level of firmness of the blocks 3215, 3216 can be selected such that the 3210 structure has a "soft" or "plush" characteristic, "firm" characteristics and several firmness characteristics between them, as well as various combinations of the same. While a central block 3216 and two terminal blocks 3215 are illustrated, it is understood that more or fewer blocks 3215, 3216 may be used according to the present invention. The fabric lining 3214 includes a top panel 3240, a bottom panel 3242, and a side wall 3243, which cooperate to define an interior region 3244 therebetween. The upper bottom panels 3240, 3242 and side wall 3243 are constructed in a manner similar to liner 3014 as discussed previously. An anti-skid material 1036 can be attached to the upper fabric lining panel 3240 adjacent to the center block 3116. The front panel 3240 above the blocks 3215, however, it is constructed to allow relative movement of a pillow upper part therein. In this way, the portions of the pillow top (not shown) away from the anti-skid material 1036, for example, the opposite ends of the head and feet of the pillow top are placed to be directly in the top panel 3240 of the fabric lining 3214, are free to slide relative to the panel 3240 during the articulation movement of the frame 3012. A central section of the pillow top (not shown) remains generally stationary relative to the top panel 3240 in anti-skid 1036 material. Upper 3240 fabric lining panel 3214 includes a first edge of the perimeter 3246 and the lining panel 3242 includes a second edge of the perimeter 3248. The perimeter edge 3246 of the top panel 3240 defines a first area dimension and the perimeter edge 3248 of the bottom panel 3242 defines a second area dimension that is substantially equivalent to the first area dimension. The first and second area dimensions will vary depending on whether the mattress structure is a mattress of individual size, a mattress of matrimonial size, an extra-large mattress, or an extra-sized mattress. The side wall 3243 extends between the first and second perimeter edges 3246, 3248. Illustratively, the side wall 3243 engages the top and bottom panels 3240, 3242. However, it is understood that the hook-type fasteners and eyelet, a zipper, buttons, fasteners, and a wide variety of coupling mechanisms can be used in accordance with the present invention for coupling the top panel 3240 and the bottom panel 3242. As shown in Figure 59, the blocks 3215, 3216 are made of a size for extension on cover 3224. Blocks 3215, 3216 cooperate with cover 3224 to form a core 3225 of mattress structure 3210, as shown in Figure 60. Blocks 3215, 3216 are metric in shape and generally have the same predetermined width and length L. It is understood that when the mattress structure 3210 is a mattress of matrimonial size, mattress of extra size or mattress of extra-large size, it can be The use of more than one set of terminal and center blocks 3215, 3216 in a side-by-side relationship according to the present invention. The blocks 3215 include an upper surface 3250 facing the panel 3240 of the lining 3214, a bottom surface 3252 facing the bottom panel 3242, opposite ends 3254, 3256 and side edges 3258, 3260 extending between the surface upper and bottom 3250, 3252, Blocks 3215 are constructed of a resiliently shaped material such as urethane foam. Blocks 3215 have a level of firmness and in general an equal size. However, it is understood that the blocks 3215 may have a variety of size and firmness levels and create zones of various strengths in accordance with the present invention. The firmness and support characteristics of the foam rubber can be varied according to the wishes of the user of the mattress structure as discussed previously with reference to the blocks 3016. It is also understood that various materials can be used to build the blocks 3215 as discussed previously with reference to the blocks 3016. As shown in Figure 61, the central block 3216 includes the outer zone blocks 3340, and the central zone blocks 3341. The blocks 3340 and 3341 are symmetrical, meaning that blocks 3340, 3341 have a similar size, shape, firmness and are aligned along a common axis. Blocks 3340 and 3341 are formed as discussed above with reference to blocks 3016. However, blocks 3040 are firmer than block 3341 to provide additional support for the user's thighs and lower back. The central block of zone 3341 is less firm to compress adjacent to the user's buttocks. As shown in Figure 61, a polyethylene film 3342 having a low coefficient of friction extends around each block 3340 to allow the blocks 3340 to move independently of one another. It is understood that a wide variety of materials having a low coefficient of friction can be adhered to blocks 3340 or can be extended along blocks 3340 to allow relative movement between them according to the present invention. As shown in Figure 61, a foam side rail 3318 is placed to be adjacent to each opposite end 3054, 3056 of the foam blocks 3340. The side rails 3318 are attached to the blocks 3340 by an adhesive. It is understood that a wide variety of commercially available adhesives may be used in accordance with the present invention as long as the selected adhesive is suitable for use with the material from which blocks 3340 are made., side rails 3318 can be attached to blocks 3340 by hook-and-eye connectors, buttons, snaps and the like. The side rails 3318 are constructed similarly to the frame 574 as discussed previously and constructed of a firmer foam than the blocks 3215, 3216. The side rails 3318 provide support to the user when entering or leaving the structure of the mattress 3210. side rails 3318 are only in central block 3216 because central block 3216 is where the user climbs or falls from mattress structure 3210. However, it is understood that side rails 3318 are placed adjacent to one or more of blocks 3215. As shown in Figures 59 and 61, the. portions 3322 of the upper part engage the upper and bottom surfaces 3250, 3252 of the blocks 3215 and the upper bottom surfaces 3050, 3052 of the blocks 3340. The portions 3322 of the upper part provide vertical "controlled compression" to reduce the minimum interfacial pressure with the user to maximize comfort. The blocks 3215, 3216 below the surfaces 3322 of the upper part are compressed and have varying degrees to provide support to various parts of the user. The portions 3322 of the upper part also minimize the user's ability to receive the interface between the blocks 3340 and the rails 3318. The upper and bottom surface 3250, 3252 and 3050, 3052 of the blocks 3215 and 3340 are joined by heat to opposing tops 3322. It is understood that blocks 3215, 3340 can be attached to tops 3322 by hook and eye connectors, buttons, snaps and the like or by a variety of commercially available adhesives while the selected adhesive is compatible with the materials that adhere. The cover 3224 is provided to house the blocks 3215 and 3216 and the tops 3332. The cover 3224 is positioned to be adjacent to the bottom panel 3242 of the fabric liner 3014. The cover 3224 includes a top panel 3270 that faces away from the panel bottom 3242 and an opposite bottom panel 3272. A side wall 3271 extends between the top and bottom panels 3270, 3272. The top bottom panels 3272, are coupled to the side wall 3271 by a seam and form a cavity ( not shown) between the panels and top and bottom 3270, 3272. In addition, they form three gaps 3280 between those that were in blocks 3215, 3216 along line 3281 therein as shown in Figure 59. hollows 3280 are separated by seams 3282 that allow individual compression of blocks 3215, 3216 relative to one another. In addition, the holes 3280 inhibit migration of the blocks 3215, 3216 within the interior region 3244 of the liner 3214. The cover 3224 is made of a material having a low coefficient of friction such as a pvyester or nylon non-woven material for serve as an anti-tear coating. Additionally, the cover 3224 allows the blocks 32165, 3216 to be folded together, as shown in Figure 60, to allow efficient storage or shipping of the mattress structure 3210. In this way, the mattress structure 3210 is easy to store. unfold since it is symmetric along a central line. In addition, cover 3224 covers blocks 3215, 3216 for an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Since the cover 3224 is symmetrical, the mattress structure 3210 is essentially "foolproof" since users who receive the 3210 structure in their home can not install the 3224 cover 3214 in an improper manner. Referring now to Figure 64, a mattress retention support 7010 is provided in accordance with the present invention for use with a mattress structure 3010 to prevent the structure of the mattress 3010, the end of the feet 7055 from the base has been undone. 120. The base 120 is formed to include a foam cover (not shown) to give the base 120 the appearance of a conventional spring bed assembly. While the structure of the mattress 3010 is illustrated and describedIt is understood that the retainer holder 7010 can be used with any number of mattresses according to the present invention. The support 7010 includes a cantilever support bar 7014 and a container 7016. The retaining support 7010 includes a support frame 7012 having gas legs 7036, 7038 and a cantilever retainer support leg, 7018, elevated above of the base legs 7036, 7038. The "retainer 7016 engages the retainer holder cap 7018 above the base legs 7036, 7038 by the screws 7020. However, it is understood that any number of fasteners may be used. such as spikes, rivets, staples, etc., according to the present invention: Support frame 7012 is formed for secure, stationary placement on base 120. Container support leg 7018 interconnects opposing legs 7036, 7038. The retainer holder leg 7018 as shown in Figure 64 has a curved shaft portion 7040 with a concave side 7052 arranged to give the respective base legs 7036, 7038 of a convex, opposite side 7054 retainer holder beads 7018 includes opposite end portions 7056, 7058 and the curved shaft portion 7040 extends between opposite end portions 7056, 7058. Curved shaft portion 7040 also includes openings (not shown) through it. The end portions 7056, 7058 are placed in a spaced relation to each other. It is understood that the retainer holder leg 7018 can be formed in a variety of ways while the base legs 7036, 7038 are interconnected. Each base leg 7036, 7038 is configured to be wound around the base 120 and include the coupling system 7058 generally in a foreground and an upright end 7066 extending vertically above the first plane. Preferably, each base leg 7036, 7038 extends vertically upward from the first plane towards the support leg 7016 of the retainer. The coupling ends 7058 each include the opening 7022 made of a size to receive a screw 7024 therethrough. It is understood that any number of fasteners such as spikes, rivets, staples, etc. may be used. according to the present invention. The retainer 7016 includes a base portion 7070 and a tongue 7072 extending vertically away from the base portion 7070. The base portion 7070 is configured to be generally adjacent the retainer support leg 7018 and includes heights (not shown) ) that are made of a size to receive the screws. 7020 through this one. To attach the mattress retention bracket 7010 to the base 120 of the mattress structure 3010, the base legs 7036, 7038 are wound around the base 120 and the ends 7058 are attached to the base by screws 7024. In this way, the support structure 7012 is securely held in the base 120. The tongue 7072 within the retainer 7016 is inserted into a pre-formed groove 7074 formed within the block 3016. The base portion 7070 of the retainer 7016 is aligned with the part 7018 of the retainer holder and the screws 720 extend through the base part 7070, the fabric lining 3014, the openings in the curved shaft portion 7040 to charge the money 7016 to the support frame 7012. In this way, the stationary tongue 7072 prevents blocks 3016 from slipping off the end of feet 7055 of base 120. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, in Figure 65 the mattress retention apparatus 9100 is shown on The retention apparatus 9100 prevents an associated mattress structure 3014 from sliding laterally into a base 9120 having a solid bureau 9122. The retention apparatus 9100 includes an L-shaped support 9102 which is attached to level 9122 by screws 9130. It is understood that any number of fasteners such as spikes may be used., rivets, staples, etc., according to the present invention. The support 9102 includes an upper portion 9104 that arrives along the side of the structure of the mattress 3104 to prevent the mattress structure 3104 from sliding out of the base 9120 while the base 9210 is hinged. ~ Another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in Figure 65. The retainer 7016, as discussed previously with reference to Figure 64, is attached to the solid support 9122 of the base 9120 by the terms 9020. However, it is understood that any number of fasteners such as spikes, rivets, staples may be used. , etc., according to the present invention. The retainer 7016 can be used to attach any number of a wide variety of mattress structures directly to the base 9120, while the base 9120 has a solid bureau 9122. Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to the preferred embodiment , variations and modifications exist within the scope and spirit of the invention as described and defined in the following claims.

It is noted that in relation to this date, the best method known by the applicant to carry out the present invention, is the conventional one for the manufacture of the objects to which it refers. Having described the invention as above, the content of the following is claimed as property:

Claims

RE VINDICATIONS

1. A support assembly for a mattress, the support assembly is characterized in that it comprises: understandable blocks having individual degrees of firmness, and a sleeve defining separate recesses retaining the blocks therein, the sleeve placing the adjacent blocks together and which allows individual compression of the blocks so that each compressible block moves in a vertical direction and independently of the adjacent blocks to allow at least two dimensions of the firmness zoning.

2. The support assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the sleeve is formed to include slots defining openings in the recesses and the slots are made of a size to receive the blocks therethrough.

3. The support assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that it also comprises a plurality of sleeves arranged to be adjacent to each other.

4. The support assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that the sleeves are coupled together.

5. The support assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that the sleeve is constructed of nylon.

6. The support assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the sleeve includes an upper member and a bottom member, opposite or coupled to the upper member and the upper and bottom members cooperate to define openings in holes that are made of a size to receive the blocks through these.

7. The support assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that it also comprises figurative fasteners for selectively closing the openings to retain the blocks within the recesses.

8. The support assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the mattress has one end of the head, one end of the opposite feet and side edges and the sleeve adapts to extend between the end of the head and the end of the ends. Mattress feet.

9. The support assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that the sleeves are adapted to be positioned to be adjacent to each other between the side edges of the mattress to provide a "three dimensional zoning.

10. The support assembly according to claim 9 characterized in that the sleeve is formed to include slots defining openings in the recesses and the slots are made of a size to receive the blocks through them.

11. The support assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that the sleeves are coupled together.

12. A mattress liner assembly for use with a hinge mattress structure and a pillow top, the mattress liner assembly is characterized in that it comprises: a liner portion configured to be in the mattress structure, an upper panel coupled to the liner portion and configured to support the top of the pillow therein, and top panel that is constructed of a material having a low coefficient of infection to allow the top of the pillow to move relative to the structure of mattress, and an anti-skid material placed to be on the top panel, the anti-skid material that is adapted to inhibit the sliding movement of the top of the pillow on the top panel adjacent to the anti-skid material.

13. The mattress lining assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that the upper panel includes one end of the head, one end of the feet, opposite, and a portion of the seat placed to be between the ends of the head and of the head. the feet and the anti-skid material is placed to be adjacent to the portion of the seat of the upper panel.

14. A mattress, characterized in that it comprises: a one piece inflatable bladder; and a plurality of resilient blocks positioned to be in the inflatable bladder, the resilient blocks that are configured to move in the inflatable bladder relative to one another.

15. The mattress according to claim 14, characterized in that it further comprises a frame wherein the blocks include opposite ends coupled to the frame.

16. The mattress according to claim 15, characterized in that the opposite ends are coupled to the frame by an adhesive.

17. The mattress according to claim 15, characterized in that the blocks include an anti-tear coating so that each block moves in a vertical direction independently of the adjacent blocks and the zon weapon.

18. The mattress according to claim 14, characterized in that it also comprises a sleeve that defines gaps made of a size to receive the blocks therein and the sleeve has a low coefficient of friction.

19. The mattress according to claim 14, characterized in that each one of the blocks has a pre-determined firmness.

20. A mattress apparatus for providing a user with a three dimensional firmness zoning, the control apparatus cooperating with a mattress liner having a bottom portion with a portion of the head, a portion of the feet, and side panels extending from the bottom portion between the ends of the head and the feet, the mattress apparatus is characterized in that it comprises: a plurality of resilient, transversely extending, longitudinally spaced blocks having an upper side, a bottom side configured to face toward the bottom portion of the liner, and opposite ends extending between the upper and bottom sides, the resilient blocks that can move independently relative to each other, an inflatable bladder placed to be on the upper side of at least one of the blocks, and an upper part placed to be in the inflatable bladder, the upper part that includes opu These are configured for joining to the ends of the head and feet of the lining and sides configured for joining to the side panels.

21. The mattress according to claim 20, characterized in that it also comprises a sleeve that defines separate recesses that retain the blocks therein, the sleeve places the adjacent blocks together and allows the individual compression of the blocks, so that each resilient block it moves in a vertical direction independently of the adjacent blocks.

22. The mattress according to claim 21, characterized in that the sleeve is formed to include grooves defining openings in the recesses and the grooves are made of a size to receive blocks through them.

The support assembly according to claim 22, characterized in that it further comprises a plurality of sleeves positioned to be adjacent to each other.

24. The support assembly according to claim 23, characterized in that the sleeves are coupled together.

25. The support assembly according to claim 21, characterized in that the sleeve includes an upper member and an opposite bottom member coupled to the upper member and the upper and bottom member cooperate to define apertures in recesses that are sized to receive the blocks through these.

26. The support assembly according to claim 21, characterized in that the sleeve is adapted to extend between the end of the head and the end of the feet of the mattress lining.