WO2014150901A1 - Bedding and sleepwear - Google Patents

Abstract

A first item of sleepwear or bedding is to be used as part of a sleep system and a second item of sleepwear or bedding is to be used with the first item as part of the sleep system. At least one of the first item and second item comprises a performance fabric. The first item dissipates moisture and heat from a body of a user from an inside of the first item to an outside of the first item. The second item dissipates moisture and heat that has been dissipated by the first item.

Description

BEDDING AND SLEEPWEAR

BACKGROUND

This description relates to bedding and sleepwear.

The quality of the experience of being in bed (for example, sleeping) is affected by the nature of the sleepwear being worn and of the bedding on the bed.

Typical sleepwear is designed to be fashionable and constructed of materials (for example, cotton or blends of cotton) that look good, wear well, can be cleaned easily, and feel good against the skin.

Typical bedding also is designed to be fashionable and is made of materials that look good, wear well, and can be cleaned easily. Some items of bedding, such as bed sheets and pillow cases are also made of materials that feel good against the skin. Other items of bedding, such as mattress pads, gel pads, blankets, comforters, and duvets are designed to exhibit other properties, such as softness, size, loft, warmth, shape, and absorption.

Although the general view has been that imparting warmth to the user should be a primary function of sleepwear and bedding, novel bed sheets and pillowcases marketed by SHEEX, Inc., of Irmo, South, Carolina, are made of performance fabrics that are designed to do a better job of keeping the user cool, breathing, wicking moisture, and stretching .

SUMMARY

In general, in an aspect, a combination includes first item of sleepwear or bedding to be used as part of a sleep system and a second item of sleepwear or bedding to be used with the first item as part of the sleep system. At least one of the first item and second item comprises a performance fabric. The first item dissipates moisture and heat from a body of a user from an inside of the first item to an outside of the first item. The second item dissipates moisture and heat that has been dissipated by the first item. Implementations may include one or more of the following features. Both the first item and the second item comprise performance fabrics. The performance fabric comprises a knitted fabric. The performance fabric comprises a man-made fiber. The performance fabric comprises a gauge of at least the gauge values referred to in the patent applications incorporated above. At least one of the first item and second item comprises an item of sleepwear, and the item of sleepwear is close-fitting. At least one of the first item and second item is to be in contact with the user's skin. The item that is in contact with the user's skin comprises an item of sleepwear. The first item is in contact with skin of the user, and the second item is in contact with the first item. The item comprises sleepwear that is sized and shaped for a female user. The item comprises sleepwear that is sized and shaped for a male user.

The item comprises a bed sheet. The item comprises a pillow case. The item comprises a blanket. The item comprises a comforter. The item comprises a duvet cover. The item comprises a blanket. The item comprises a gel topper. The item comprises a mattress pad. The item comprises a mattress pad topper. The item comprises a pillow.

The item comprises a V-neck tee. The item comprises a cami adjustable tank. The item comprises a sleep bra. The item comprises a racer back tank. The item comprises a Capri pant. The item comprises a boxer short. The item comprises a boy short. The item comprises a gym sleep short. The item comprises a fold over pant. The item comprises at least one of a cap sleeve tunic, nightie, romper, sleep Henley, hooded robe, double strap tank, V-neck sleep tank dress, V-neck sleep dress, perfect tank, yoke legging, drawstring pants, pajama shorts with tiered hem, pocket tee and short pajama short set, and long sleeve cover up. The item comprises at least one of a tank, a colorblock tee, sleeveless v-tee, v-tee, hoody, Henley, paneled long sleeve cover up, long robe, long pant, long short, boxer, paneled boxer short, drawstring short, drawstring pant, and boxer brief.

The item of sleepwear comprises fashion-related elements. The item of sleepwear comprises compression elements. The item of sleepwear comprises mesh elements. At least one of the items comprises a base item. At least one of the items comprises a top item. The first item and the second item comprise items of sleepwear that are layered one on the other. The first item and the second item comprise items of bedding that are layered one on the other. There is a third item of sleepwear or bedding; one of the items comprises a base item of bedding, one of the items comprises an item of sleepwear, and one of the items comprises a top item of bedding.

Three is also packaging to contain both the first item in the second item. The packaging comprises information about the use of the first item in the second item in a sleep system. The first item and the second item are displayed in close proximity to one another for purchase by the user.

In general, in an aspect, an item of sleepwear is close fitting and comprises a knitted performance fabric.

Implementations may include one or more of the following features. The item of sleepwear comprises stitched together pieces of the knitted performance fabric. The item of sleepwear comprises fashion elements. The item is to be in contact with the user's skin. The item is sized and shaped for a female user. The item is sized and shaped for a male user.

The item comprises a V-neck tee. The item comprises a cami adjustable tank.

The item comprises a sleep bra. The item comprises a racer back tank. The item comprises a Capri pant. The item comprises a boxer short. The item comprises a boy short. The item comprises a gym sleep short. The item comprises a fold over pant. The item comprises at least one of a cap sleeve tunic, nightie, romper, sleep Henley, hooded robe, double strap tank, V-neck sleep tank dress, V-neck sleep dress, perfect tank, yoke legging, drawstring pants, pajama shorts with tiered hem, pocket tee and short pajama short set, and long sleeve cover up. The item comprises at least one of a tank, a colorblock tee, sleeveless v-tee, v-tee, hoody, Henley, paneled long sleeve cover up, long robe, long pant, long short, boxer, paneled boxer short, drawstring short, drawstring pant, and boxer brief. The item comprises compression elements. The item comprises mesh elements. The item comprises sleeve pieces. The item comprises leggings.

The item is a bedding item that comprises at least two joined pieces of a performance fabric. The performance fabric comprises a knit fabric. The item is a sleepwear item that comprises pieces joined by flat lock seaming. The item is a sleepwear item that comprises pieces joined by flat seaming. The item is a sleepwear item that comprises flat lock hems. The item is a sleepwear item that comprises mesh inserts. The item is a sleepwear item that comprises a logo. The item is a sleepwear item that comprises logo elastic trim. The item is a sleepwear item that comprises color block designs.

In general, in an aspect, a combination includes first item of sleepwear or bedding to be used as part of a sleep system and a second item of sleepwear or bedding to be used with the first item as part of the sleep system. At least one of the first item and second item comprises a performance fabric, and a retail package holds both the first item and the second item for sale at retail.

In general, in an aspect, a combination includes a retail display device on which are displayed a first item of sleepwear or bedding to be used as part of a sleep system and a second item of sleepwear or bedding to be used with the first item as part of the sleep system. An informational device informs a purchaser that the first item and the second item are to be used together as part of the sleep system.

In general, in an aspect, heat and moisture are dissipated from a body of a person who is in bed by dissipating heat and moisture from the person's skin through a close-fitting sleepwear item made of a performance knit fabric of at least xxx gauge and dissipating the heat and moisture from outside the sleepwear through a bedding item made of a performance knit fabric of at least the gauge values referred to in the patent applications incorporated above.

These and other aspects, features, and implementations, and combinations of them can be expresses as methods, apparatus, systems, components, means and steps for performing functions, and in other ways.

Other features and advantages will be apparent from the following description and from the claims. DESCRIPTION

Figure 1 is a schematic exploded perspective side view of a sleep system environment.

Figure 2 is an illustration of a sleep system environment.

Figures 3 A - 46 are front and back views of sleepwear.

Figure 47 is a pattern for a sleepwear garment.

Figure 48 is a pattern for a performance fitted sheet. Figure 49 is a pattern for a performance top sheet.

Figure 50 is a pattern for a performance pillowcase.

Figure 51 is a perspective view of a retail package.

Figure 52 is a perspective view of a retail display stand.

Here we describe ways of designing, patterning, constructing, and marketing individual items of bedding, individual items of sleepwear, and combinations of items of bedding and items of sleepwear, in a way that intends them to be used and to work together as what we call a system. The system achieves particular functional and environmental effects to make being in bed can be made more pleasant, restful, comfortable, and satisfying. Among other things, by the selection of fabrics, patterns, and other characteristics of the items of bedding and sleepwear, the combinations of bedding and sleepwear items in the system can achieve controlled thermal, breathing, and wicking qualities. The qualities help to regulate body temperature and moisture to promote deeper and more restorative sleep, for example. The system can yield a total, personalized system that offers good feel, fit, temperature control, breathability, moisture transport, and durability.

We use the terms sleep, or sleeping, or sleep system sometimes for convenience to refer broadly to any kind of activity associated with being in bed, whether active or sedentary, including, resting, reading, talking, sleeping, convalescing, and others.

In some implementations, the system involves using a combination of unique breathable performance fabric bedding with breathable performance fabric sleepwear constructed of a high-gauge circular-knit performance fabric. In these implementations, this fabric provides performance attributes that are beneficial to the user, including breathability, moisture transport, and heat transfer. The unique construction of the performance fabrics enables the movement of air, heat and moisture through the material from one surface to the opposite surface, for example, to a much greater degree than cotton would allow.

Referring to figure 1 , a sleep system 10 (as mentioned earlier we use the word sleep as a very broad proxy for any kind of activity that may go on in bed) can include any two or more bedding or sleepwear items 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, and 28, that work together to make a person 30 who is in the bed, drier, cooler, more comfortable, and more relaxed. In some implementations, at least one of the items of the system is an item of sleepwear 18, 20, and a second item is an item of bedding 12, 14, 16, 22, 24, 26, or 28. In some implementations, the items in the system are all items of bedding or all items of sleepwear. The items of the system can be categorized as top items 13 (including items 12, 14, and 16) that are positioned above the user, base items 17 (including items 22, 24, 26, and 28) that are located below the user, and sleepwear items 19 (including items) 18 and 20 that are worn by the user.

The items of a given system are designed to work together to provide excellent body-heat dissipation that is critical in maintaining consistently optimized thermal conditions for better sleep. In some implementations of the system, each component's contribution to improved comfort for the user is optimized.

The sleepwear items 18, 20 are designed to be in close contact with the skin over a substantial part of the item that is worn on the body of the user 15 of the sleep system. In general, the sleepwear items are designed not to provide air space or air pockets between the skin of the user and the items. The air in such spaces tends to heat up from the user's body and inhibit the dissipation of heat and water vapor from the user's skin. By designing the sleepwear items to be in contact with the user's skin, moisture wicking and heat dissipation are achieved.

Therefore, in some implementations, the sleepwear items are form-fitting A form-fitting garment is an article of clothing that, for example, follows the contours of the part of the body being covered. . Body heat and moisture are directed away from the skin with minimal tenting of the items.

The top components 13 are meant to drape over the user. Drape means, for example, to arrange loosely or casually over the user, e.g., the blankets and sheets are draped over the user. Top layer components may include sheets 16, comforters 14, duvet covers, blankets, and throws 12, among others. Any kind of bedding item can be designed and fabricated in a way to make it suitable and useful as a component of the system. One or any number of the top layer components may be used alone, or in conjunction with the sleepwear items. The top layer components provide moisture- transport and heat-transfer properties that supplement the moisture -transport and heat transfer properties of the sleepwear items. For example, in some implementations, heat and moisture that have been dissipated by the user's body through the sleepwear may be further dissipated through the top layer items and out into the ambient air. Therefore, heat and moisture that are dissipated by the sleepwear are not then trapped in the space between the sleepwear and the top items, but can be further dissipated. The top layer items need not fit tightly around the user. Most users do not wrap themselves up tightly in their sheets and blankets. Tenting and the formation of some air pockets surrounding the user may occur between the top items and the sleepwear in normal use of the products by the user. When more than one top item is part of the system, each of them contributes to the dissipation of heat and moisture into the ambient air. The

performance fabrics used for these items have qualities that contribute to this dissipation.

In some implementations, one or more of the base items are layered under the user. Base components of a given system may include any two or more of sheets 22, gel toppers 24, mattress pads 26, mattress pad toppers 18, pillows 30, and pillow cases 32. The base items may be used alone or in conjunction with sleepwear items and the top layer components. The base layer components provide moisture-transport and heat- transfer properties that enhance the moisture-transport and heat transfer properties of the sleepwear items and the top layer components. For example, in some

implementations, heat and moisture that have been dissipated by the user's body through the sleepwear may be further dissipated through the base layer items and into the mattress from which they are eventually dissipated to the ambient air. Therefore, heat and moisture that are dissipated by the sleepwear are not then trapped in the space between the sleepwear and the base items, but can be further dissipated. When more than one base item is part of the system, each of them contributes to the dissipation of heat and moisture toward the mattress. The performance fabrics used for these items have qualities that contribute to this dissipation.

In addition to layering of top and base items, the sleepwear may be layered also by wearing two or more sleepwear items, one on top of another. Dissipation of heat and moisture through multiple layers provides similar benefits to the ones already described.

Referring to figure 2, the sleep system 10 is designed to be marketed to and used by both men 40 and women 42. Bedding components including top layer components and base layer components can be used by any user. Sleepwear

components include garments with gender-specific elements designed to be either female sleepwear 44 worn by a female user or male sleepwear 46 worn by a male user.

Marketing images 45 such as the one shown in figure 2 are intended to illustrate and promote the use of a combination of performance sleepwear items and performance bedding items as part of a system of the kind that is the subject of our description.

All components in the system are able to improve environmental conditions for uninterrupted, better-quality sleep, and are effective when used in combination.

Layering the bedding and sleepwear with the sleepwear in close contact to the skin provides a performance benefit.

An example of a female sleepwear item, a V-neck tee 50, designed to be worn by a female user as part of the sleep system is shown in figures 3 A and 3B. The V-neck tee 50 has a front 51 as shown in figure 3A and a back 52 shown in figure 3B. The V- neck tee 50 has a neck 54, a body 66, and sleeves 65.

The neck 54 of the V-neck tee 50 takes the shape of a low V in the front part of the neck 55 and extends across the neck in a slightly curved manner across the back part of the neck 56. The neck has a logo band 57. The logo band color 59 may be the same color or a color contrasting to the body color 58 of the V-neck tee.

The length 60 of the V-neck tee may be such that the tee reaches, or is above or below the hip bone of the wearer. The width 62 of the tee is not uniform below where the sleeves 65 attach to the body of the shirt 66. Rather the width decreases and then increases along the length of the tee, creating curvature 63 meant to fiatter the shape of the wearer and to promote contact between the performance fabric and the skin over a substantial portion of the area of the tee. The front 51 of the tee may contain a logo 70.

The logo 70 may in a logo color 71 contrasting to the body color 58 of the V-neck tee.

The V-neck tee terminates in a shirt hem 75. The hem may be the same color as the neck 54, the same as the body color 58, or a different color. The hem is a flatlock hem. The stitch color 78 of the flatlock hem may be the same color as the neck 54, the body color 58, the shirt hem color 75 or a different color. The sleeves 65 also have sleeve hems 76. The sleeve hems 76 may be the same color as the neck 54, the body color 58, the shirt hem color 75 or a different color.

Thus, in some implementations of items of sleepwear, both functional features

(close fitting, performance fabrics, for example) are combined with fashion features (shape, size, colors, finish, neckline, and others). Similar combinations of functional and fashion features are illustrated by other examples discussed below.

Another example of a female sleepwear item, a cami adjustable tank 80, designed to be worn by a female user as part of the sleep system is shown in figures 4A, 4B, and 4C. The cami adjustable tank 80 has a front 81 as shown in figure 4A and a back 82 shown in figures 4B and 4C. The cami adjustable tank 80 has a body 83, straps 90, and a shelf bra 100.

The body 83 has a front length 84 and a back length 85. The back length 85 may be shorter than the front length 84. The front length 84 is the length from the bottom of the tank to the bottom of the neckline. The neckline at the front of the body 83 is not straight across but rather has two points 86 at top. Width 87 of the cami adjustable table is not constant along the front or back length 84, 85. Rather the width decreases and then increases along the length 84, 85, creating curvature 89 meant to flatter the shape of the wearer and increase the amount of direct contact between the fabric and the user's skin. The body is of body color 88. The front 81 of the tee may contain a logo 70. The logo 70 may in a logo color 71 contrasting to the body color 88 of the V-neck tee.

The cami adjustable tank 80 has at least one set of straps 90. The first set of straps 91 contains two straps that are attached symmetrically on either side at the top of the back 82 of the tank and to the points 86 in front. The first set of straps has some uniform width 92. The straps contain an adjustment mechanism 94 which permits the shortening or lengthening of the effective length of the straps 91. Adjustment mechanism may be any adjustment mechanism known in the art. The straps are strap color 96.

As best seen in figure 4C, the cami adjustable tank 80 contains a shelf bra 100.

The shelf bra is layered underneath the body 83 and has a second set of straps 102 of width 104 and color 105. Both sets of straps 91, 102 attach at the mesh trim 106 at the neck 107. The mesh trim 106 can be of color 108.

The bottom of the cami adjustable tank terminates in a tank hem 110. The hem may be the same color as the mesh trim 108, the same as the body color 88, or a different color. The hem is a flat lock hem. The stitch color 112 of the flat lock hem may be the same color as the mesh trim 108, the body color 88, or a different color. The front 81 and back 82 of the cami adjustable tank also sewn together along seams 114. Seams 114 are comfort flat seaming. Seam color 116 may be the same as body color 88, or a different color.

The cami adjustable slip dress 120 shown in front and back view in figure 5 A and 5B is another example of a female sleepwear item. The cami adjustable slip dress 120 has many of the features of the cami adjustable tank 80. The front length 124 and back length 125 of the cami adjustable slip dress 120 is meant to fall lower than the user's hip. The front length 124 and back length 125 of the cami adjustable slip dress 120 can be such that the hem 130 falls between the wearer's hip and knee.

Another example of a female sleepwear item is a sleep bra 140. The front 141 is shown in figure 6 A and back 142 in figure 6B. The front of sleep bra 140 has a length 144 which is the shortest length from the neck 145 to the hem 147. Symmetric around the neck 145 are two points 146 which attach to the straps 150 at the front. At the back the straps 150 have a common attachment point at the top of the center back. The length 145 is the back length from this point to the hem 147. Adjustable mechanism 154 in the strap permits the shortening or lengthening of the effective length of the straps. The straps are strap color 156.

The hem 147 has a logo satin band 158 containing logo 70. Sleep bra 140 is sewn together using comfort flat seaming. The colors of any of the parts may be the same, or different from each other.

Another example of a female sleepwear item is a racer back tank 160. Referring to figures 7A and 7B showing the front 161 and back 162, racer back tank 162 contains the logo 70 that may be located near the neck 164 or hem 168. The neck 164 of the racer back tank is curved, continuing seamlessly into straps 165. On the back, strap 165 arch together to from a single midline strap 166 in the racer back style.

Another example of a female sleepwear item is long pant 180. The long pant is shown in figures 8 A and 8B. Length 184 causes the pant to fall at or around the wearer's ankle. The pant has a satin logo waistband 186 containing logo 70. The hem 188 has a mesh trim 189. Parts of long pant 180 are joined together by comfort flat seaming 190.

Capri pant 200 shown in figures 9A and 9B is similar to long pant 180, however the length 205 is chosen such that the hem 208 falls on or around the wearer's knee. Boxer short 220 is shown in figures 10A and 10B. Its features are similar to the capri and long pant, however length 224 is such that the hem 228 falls on or around the wearer's crotch. Additionally the front 221 has a faux button detailing 230 just below the waistband 226.

Boyshort 240 is shown in figures 11 A and 1 IB. Its features are similar to the capri and long pant, however length 224 is such that the hem 228 falls on or around the wearer's crotch.

Gym sleep short 260 is shown in figures 12A and 12B. Its features including length are similar to the boxer short 220. Gym sleep 260 includes a waistband 266 which contains a fold 269 which allows for a drawstring 271. Additionally the hem 268 has an overlapping mesh trim 269 at the leg.

Another example of a female sleepwear item is foldover pant 280. The foldover pant is shown in figures 13A and 13B. Length 284 causes the pant to fall at or around the wearer's ankle. The pant has a waistband 187 that is folded. The hem 188 has a mesh trim 189, and a logo 70 is located near the hem. Parts of long pant 180 are joined together by comfort flat seaming 190.

There are of course other female sleepwear garments that have features similar to the features described above. These garments include a cap sleeve tunic, nightie, romper, sleep Henley, hooded robe, double strap tank, V-neck sleep tank dress, V-neck sleep dress, perfect tank, yoke legging, drawstring pants, pajama shorts with tiered hem, pocket tee and short pajama short set, and long sleeve cover up shown in figures 14 through figure 27.

An example of a male sleepwear item 24, a V-neck tee 450, designed to be worn by a male user 25 as part of the sleep system 10 is shown in figures 28A and 28B. The V-neck tee 450 has a front 451 as shown in figure 28A and a back 452 shown in figure 28B. The V-neck tee 450 has a neck 454, a body 466, and sleeves 465.

The neck 454 of the V-neck tee 450 takes the shape of a low V in the front part of the neck 455 and extends across the neck in a slightly curved manner across the back part of the neck 456. The neck has a logo band 457. The logo band color 459 may be the same color or a color contrasting to the body color 458 of the V-neck tee. The neck 454 may also have contrast inner logo tape 453. The length 460 of the V-neck tee may be such that the tee reaches, or is above or below the hip bone of the male user 25. The width 462 of the tee is uniform below where the sleeves 465 attach to the body of the shirt 466. The front 451 of the tee may contain a logo 70. The logo 70 may in a logo color 471 contrasting to the body color 458 of the V-neck tee.

The V-neck tee terminates in a shirt hem 475. The hem may be the same color as the neck 454, the same as the body color 458, or a different color. The hem is a flat lock hem. The stitch color 478 of the flat lock hem may be the same color as the neck 454, the body color 458, or a different color. The sleeves 465 also have sleeve hems 476. The sleeve hems 476 may be the same color as the neck 454, the body color 458, the shirt hem color 475 or a different color.

Another example of a male sleepwear item 24, a crew tee 480, designed to be worn by a male user 25 as part of the sleep system 10 is shown in figures 29A and 29B. The crew tee 480 has a front 481 as shown in figure 29A and a back 482 shown in figure 29B. The features of crew tee 480 are similar to V-neck tee 450, however the front of the neck 485 of the crew tee 480 has a crew neck style, that is slightly curved rather than a low V.

There are other examples of male sleepwear that have features similar to the ones described above. These items include tank, a color block tee, sleeveless v-tee, v- tee, hoody, Henley, paneled long sleeve cover up, long robe, long pant, long short, boxer, paneled boxer short, drawstring short, drawstring pant, and boxer brief shown in figures 30A through figure 44B.

Other examples of sleepwear components 600, 620, 630of more complex design, function, and fashion are shown in figure 45 and 46. In these examples, portions of the sleepwear fit the user so tightly as to cause compression of portions of the user's body. This compression provides the user with added benefits including muscle support and regeneration, enhanced blood flow resulting in improved circulation, and greater relaxation. Sleepwear items intended for a male user is shown in figure 45 and a sleepwear items intended for a female user 21 is shown in figure 46.

For the male user, the sleepwear items include a torso piece 612, sleeve pieces

614, 616, and pants 618. For the female user, the sleepwear items can include an upper body piece 622, pants 624, and leggings 632, 634. The pieces can be worn separately or together, and can be layered with other items of sleepwear or bedding. Each of the pieces can be assembled from three different materials. One material is a mesh (shown cross-hatched in the figures) that is used for a variety of panels 649 and is made of a material that achieves a high rate of ventilation of air around the skin that is in contact with the mesh.

The second material is a high-performance fabric of the kind discussed above and used for a variety of other panels 651.

The third material is a fabric that is used for providing the compression mentioned earlier. The compression panels 647 can serve, for example, the biceps, the quads, the calves, and the feet, as shown. A wide elastic waistband 642 can be provided on the pants.

As discussed earlier, the sleepwear system also includes bedding components. Some of these components, for example sheets, are described in the United States patent applications that are incorporated by reference above. Those applications also describe the characteristics of performance fabrics that can be used.

As mentioned earlier, top layer components may include sheets, comforters, duvet covers, blankets, and throws. Base layer components may include sheets, gel toppers, mattress pads, mattress pad toppers, pillows, and pillow cases. Each of the items of sleepwear can be assembled by cutting material to form pieces according to predesigned patterns and assembling the pieces using stitching, adhesives, heat, or any other assembly method that will provide an effective bond.

Figure 47 shows an example of how a sleepwear item can be constructed.

Shown are the pieces that are to be assembled from a pattern for a cami adjustable slip dress 500. Patterns for sleepwear items are provided for all of the different sizes to be marketed. The patterns are intended to yield close-fitting sleepwear items for each size.

To construct the garment shown in figure 47, 5 mm flat seams 502 are used at locations near the sides 504 and back 506. Seams are not located at the sides 505. A 2 cm hem 508 is at the bottom of the garment 510. The top 512 has a 4 mm internal decorated cover stitch seam 514. Straps 516 have a flatseam 518 in the center and is 1 stitch in circumference. Inner shelf bra 520 is sewn near the top 512.

Figure 48 shows an example of how a base layer component can be constructed. Shown is a pattern for a fitted sheet 530. The fitted sheet has a length L and width W and is encased with elastic around the entire perimeter. The fitted sheet is composed of at least three pieces 531, 533, 535 sewn together. Figure 49 shows an example of how a top layer component can be constructed. Shown is a pattern for a top sheet 550. The top sheet has a length L and width W, and a four inch top hem 538. The top sheet is composed of at least three pieces 539, 541, 54 sewn together.

Figure 50 shows an example of how a base layer component can be constructed. Shown is a pattern for a pillowcase 570. The pillowcase has a length L and width W and a four inch hem.

As shown in figure 51, any two or more items 601, 603 of bedding, sleepwear, or combinations of them can be packaged together 608 in a box, bag, or other retailing container 602 for shipment, shelving, marketing, sale, and use by the consumer. The packaging can bear marketing messages or instructions 606 describing the system, the elements of the system, the functional aspects, and other features.

As shown in figure 52, a retail display device 669 can include shelves 671, 673 on which packages are displayed for purchase. A package 661 displayed on one of the shelves can contain an item of bedding or sleepwear that is part of sleep system. A package 663 displayed on the other shelf can contain a second item of bedding or sleepwear that is also part of the sleep system and can be used with the item in package 661. A sign or other display element 665 informs purchasers about the sleep system and the fact that the items in packages 661 and 663 are parts of such a sleep system and can be used together with the benefits described earlier.

This description is related to the description in United States patent applications 12/569,659, filed 9/29/09, and 61/101,049, filed 9/29/08, portions of which are included below.

Sleep problems in the United States are remarkably widespread, affecting roughly three out of four American adults, according to research by the National Sleep Foundation (NSF). Consequently, a great deal of attention has been paid to the circumstances surrounding poor sleep, along with strategies for how to improve it.

The implications are not merely academic. Sleep— not only the right amount of it but also the right quality— impacts not just day-to-day performance, but also "the overall quality of our lives," according to the NSF. Addressing the causes of poor quality sleep, therefore, has ramifications for millions.

Though many factors contribute to sleep quality, the sleep environment itself plays a critical role, and sleep researchers routinely highlight temperature as one of the most important components in creating an environment for optimal sleep. As advised by the University of Maryland Medical Center, "a cool (not cold) bedroom is often the most conducive to sleep." The National Sleep Foundation further notes that

"temperatures above 75 degrees Fahrenheit and below 54 degrees will disrupt sleep," with 65 degrees being the ideal sleep temperature for most individuals, according to the NSF.

A lower environmental temperature is not the only thermal factor associated with improved sleep. Researchers have noted a nightly drop in body temperature among healthy, normal adults during sleep. This natural cycle, when inhibited or not functioning properly, can disrupt sleep and delay sleep onset, according to medical researchers at Cornell University. Conversely, the researchers noted, a rapid decline in body temperature not only accelerates sleep onset but also "may facilitate an entry into the deeper stages of sleep."

Therefore, maintaining an appropriately cool sleep environment and

accommodating the body's natural tendency to cool itself at night should be a top priority for individuals interested in optimizing their sleep quality. Performance fabrics crafted into bedding applications would be uniquely capable of promoting cool, comfortable -and therefore better -sleep, as these advanced fabrics maximize breathability and heat transfer. Performance fabrics are made for a variety of end-use applications, and can provide multiple functional qualities, such as moisture management, UV protection, anti-microbial, thermo-regulation, and wind/water resistance.

There has been a long felt need in several industries to provide improved bedding to help individuals get better sleep. Such improved bedding would include beneficial wicking among other properties. For example, in marine, boating and recreational vehicle applications, bedding should resist moisture, fit odd-shaped mattresses and beds, and reduce mildew. Particularly with watercraft, there is a need to protect bedding, and specifically sheets, from moisture and mildew accumulation. An additional problem with bedding, not just with marine and recreational vehicles, is the sticky, wet feeling that can occur when the bedding sheets are wet due to body sweat, environmental moisture, or other bodily fluids. In particular, when bedding is used during hot weather, or is continuously used for a long time by a person suffering from an illness, problems can arise in that the conventional bed sheet of cotton fiber or the like cannot sufficiently absorb the moisture. All of these issues lead to poor sleep.

There are width limitations in the manufacturing of high gauge circular knit fabrics, because the finished width of bedding fabrics are dictated by the machine used in its construction. Performance fabrics have sometimes been manufactured with a maximum width of under 90 inches wide, given manufacturing and technical limitations, along with the inability of alternate manufacturing processes to produce a fabric with identical performance attributes. Yet, normal bed sheet panels can be 102 by 91 inches or larger.

Circular knitting is typically used for athletic apparel. The process includes circularly knitting yarns into fabrics. Circular knitting is a form of weft knitting where the knitting needles are organized into a circular knitting bed. A cylinder rotates and interacts with a cam to move the needles reciprocally for knitting action. The yarns to be knitted are fed from packages to a carrier plate that directs the yarn strands to the needles. The circular fabric emerges from the knitting needles in a tubular form through the center of the cylinder.

Further, the machinery that is used for bedding is very different than for athletic wear. For example, bedding manufacturing equipment is not equipped to sew flatlock stitching or to provide circular knitting. Bed sheets typically are knit using a process known as warp knitting, a process capable of producing finished fabrics in the widths required for bedding. This method, however, cannot be employed to produce high- quality performance fabrics. Warp knitting is not capable of reproducing these fabrics' fine tactile qualities nor their omni-direction stretch properties, for example.

Circular knitting must be employed to produce a performance fabric that retains these fabric's full range of benefits and advantages. However, in order to produce a fabric of the proper width for bedding applications, a circular knit machine of at least 48 inches in diameter would be necessary. Further, athletic sewing factories are typically not equipped to sew and handle large pieces of fabrics so that equipment limitations do not allow for the manufacture of bedding sheets.

Briefly described here is a high gauge circular knit fabric for use in bedding, and a method for manufacturing such bedding. The bedding fabric has superior performance properties, while allowing for manufacture by machinery presently available and in use. In order to achieve a finished width of the size needed to create sheet-sized performance fabric, a high gauge circular knit machine of at least 48 inches in diameter is necessary. And while warp knitting machines are available that can produce wider fabrics, this method will not provide a fabric with the tactile qualities required, nor provide a fabric with omni-directional stretch.

A method of making a finished fabric can comprise at least two discrete performance fabric portions, and joining at least two discrete performance fabric portions to form the finished fabric. Forming the at least two discrete performance fabric portions can comprise knitting at least two discrete performance fabric portions, and more preferably, circular knitting at least two discrete performance fabric portions. Joining the at least two discrete performance fabric portions to form the finished fabric can comprise stitching at least two discrete performance fabric portions together to form the finished fabric.

The at least two discrete performance fabric portions can have different fabric characteristics. Fabric characteristics as used herein include, among other things, moisture management, UV protection, anti-microbial, thermo-regulation, wind resistance and water resistance.

The finished fabric can be used in, among other applications, residential settings, or in marine, boating and recreational vehicle environments.

The sheets offer enhanced drape and comfort compared to traditional cotton bedding, and are as fine as silk, yet provide the benefits of high elasticity and recovery along with superior breathability, body-heat transport, and moisture management as compared to traditional cotton bedding.

Conventional fitted sheets can bunch and slide on standard mattress sizes.

Furthermore, if the fitted bed sheets do not fit properly, they do not provide a smooth surface to lie on. The high gauge circular knit fabrics stretch to fit and offer superior recovery on the mattress allowing the fabric to conform to fit the mattress without popping off the comers of the mattress or billowing. The performance fabric can include spandex, offers a better fit than conventional bedding products, can accommodate larger or smaller mattress sizes with a single size sheet, and can conform to mattresses with various odd dimensions.

Spandex -or elastane -is a synthetic fiber known for its exceptional elasticity. It is stronger and more durable than rubber, its major non-synthetic competitor. It is a polyurethane^~polyurea copolymer that was invented by DuPont. "Spandex" is a generic name, and an anagram of the word "expands." "Spandex" is the preferred name in North America; elsewhere it is referred to as "elastane." The most famous brand name associated with spandex is Lycra, a trademark of Invista.

The high gauge circular knit fabric offers durability in reduced pilling and pulling when compared to other knit technologies, and offer reduced wrinkles and enhanced color steadfastness

Performance fabric can allow for a one-size fitted sheet that can actually fit two different size mattresses. For example, the full fitted sheet can fit on both the full and queen size bed. The twin fitted sheet will also fit an XL twin. In a boating application, sheets can be produced to fit almost every custom boat mattress.

Testing conducted at the North Carolina State University (NCSU) Center for

Research on Textile Protection and Comfort confirms that the performance fabrics provide a cooler sleeping environment than cotton. Performance bedding was tested side -by-side with commercially available cotton bed sheets in a series of procedures designed to measure each product's heat-and moisture-transport properties, as well as warm/cool-to-touch thermal transport capabilities.

Across all tests, the performance fabrics in bedding outperformed cotton, demonstrating the performance fabric's superiority in establishing and maintaining thermal comfort during sleep. This advantage is evident to users from the very onset, as NCSU testing indicates that, on average, performance bedding offers improved heat transfer upon initial contact with the skin, resulting in a cooler-to-the-touch feeling.

During sleep, high gauge circular knit performance bedding helps to maintain thermal comfort by trapping less body heat and breathing better than cotton. Testing has demonstrated that performance bedding made out of performance fabrics transfers heat away from the body up to two times more effectively than cotton. This is critically important not only for sustained comfort during sleep, but also in terms of enabling the body to cool itself as rapidly as possible to facilitate sleep onset. In addition to trapping less heat, performance bedding breathes better than cotton -up to 50% better, giving performance bedding a strong advantage in terms of ventilation and heat and moisture transfer.

The performance advantage over cotton holds true for simulated dry and wet skin conditions, confirming that certain performance fabrics in bedding are better suited than cotton at managing moisture (e.g., sweat) to maintain thermal comfort. In addition to wicking moisture away from the skin through capillary action, the performance fabric's advanced breathability further enables heat and moisture transfer through evaporative cooling. As a result, the user is kept cooler, drier and more comfortable than with cotton.

The performance bedding holds a distinct advantage over cotton in enabling, accommodating and maintaining optimum thermal conditions for sleep, which in turn can lead to faster sleep initiation and deeper, more restorative sleep.

A sheet has dimensions of 102 inches in length and 91 inches in width. The material is manufactured from performance fabric, which can include, for example, varying amounts of one or more of Lycra, Coolmax, Thermax and Thermastat. The fabric is treated so that the fabric has antimicrobial properties. By using circular-knit performance fabric, the fabric is able to provide elasticity in all four directions. This property allows for the sheet to fit extraordinary mattress, cushion and bedding shapes, as well as providing better fits for traditional rectangular sheets. By using performance fabrics, the sheet has elastic properties that allow stretching. In addition, by using circular-knit performance fabric, the resulting bedding retains an exceptionally fine tactile quality critical for providing maximum levels of enhanced comfort.

An alternative to circular knitting is non-circular knitting -for example, warp knitting. This method can achieve widths greater than circular knitting. Industrial warp knit machines, for example, can produce tricote warp knit fabrics up to 130-140 inches in width. Circular knitting, however, is less expensive, as it requires less set-up time. Circular knitting also provides greater multidirectional stretch. In order to provide a sheet that exceeds the maximum dimensions of fabric that can be produced by available circular knitting machines, flat lock stitching is used to join a plurality of portions resulting in a sheet that is 91 inches wide (as shown). Piping can be included in close proximity to the stitching. The stitching can be the same color as the fabric of the sheet portions, or different color(s). The piping can be 3/4 inch straight piping without a cord or other filler. The stitching is 16 stitches per inch. Piping can be included at one end of the sheet and can be the same or a different color as the sheet fabric.

For a fitted sheet, the sheet can include an elastic portion surrounding the edge of the fitted sheet to better keep the fitted sheet in place when placed on a mattress or other sleeping surface. A cord can be sewn into the edge of the fitted sheet and cinched around the mattress or other sleeping surface to better hold the fitted sheet in place.

A sheet can have dimensions of 91 inches wide and 102 inches in length.

Stitching is 34 inches from an interior edge of a main portion and another stitch at edge of the sewn-on portion. Flat lock stitching can be used for the stitching. Piping can be applied at or in proximity to the stitching.

In a non-rectangular sheet, elastic can be included around the edge of the fitted sheet to better maintain the fitted sheet in position when placed on a sleeping surface. Pull ties can be installed at various locations around the edge of the fitted sheet in order to assist in maintaining the fitted sheet secured to the sleeping surface. The pull tie can be cinched to increase tension around the edge of the fitted sheet. Stitching can be used for securing the portions of the sheet together.

The sheet can be assembled through stitching of differing fabrics for generating performance zones in the sheet. For example, one zone can have higher wicking properties than the other zones since this area is where the majority of the individual body rests. Other areas can have higher spandex or other elastic fabric properties so that the fit around a sleeping surface is improved. One area may have thermal properties such as increased cooling since this area is generally where the individual's head lies. In an exemplary embodiment, the pillow covers of pillows used by the individual also have differing properties from the remainder of the sheet, e.g., thermal properties.

Bedding materials can be constructed that have superior performance properties while allowing for manufacture by machinery presently available and in use. More specifically, a new method for fabricating a covering and or sheets in bedding can be used. When using a traditional circular knitting machine, the high gauge performance fabrics can only be made to a maximum size of 72.5 inches without losing the integrity of the spandex in the fabric. Yet, normal sheet panels are 102 x 91 inches. This presents problems when manufacturing sheets from performance fabrics.

Additionally, special stitching techniques must be used given the thread density of the fabric. Using this special stitching, panels are sewn together to produce bedding or a sheet that is the proper size for standard bed sheets. Because discrete

portions/panels are used in the manufacture of the present fabrics, panels can be selected that provide different properties for different areas of the bedding. Stitching or seams on the sheet can also allow for the ease of making the bed. Because the bedding is made from performance fabric with spandex, it stretches to permit multiple and custom sizing for applications in cribs, recreational vehicles and boats.

Circular knitting machines used for high gauge performance bedding fabrics are called high-gauge circular knitting machines, because of dense knitting with thin yarn. High gauge generally denotes 17 gauges or more. Seventeen gauges indicate that 17 or more cylinder needles are contained in one inch. Circular knitting machines of less than 17 gauges are referred to as low-gauge circular knitting machines. The low-gauge circular knitting machines are often used to knit outerwear.

"Yarn count" indicates the linear density (yarn diameter or fineness) to which that particular yarn has been spun. The choice of yarn count is restricted by the type of knitting machine employed and the knitting construction. The yarn count, in turn, influences the cost, weight, opacity, hand and drape of the resulting knitted structure. In general, staple spun yarns tend to be comparatively more expensive the finer their count, because finer fibers and a more exacting spinning process are necessary in order to prevent the yarn from showing an irregular appearance.

A top width in the 90-inch range is currently possible using a circular knit fabric formed on a 36-38-inch diameter machine, although higher levels of spandex in the performance fabric tend to pull the width in. In just one example, on a 30-inch diameter machine, the spandex can reduce an otherwise 94-inch circumference fabric tube to one with a 60-65 inch finished width. A major limitation in finished width is not strictly a knitting concern but also concerns finishing. With performance fabric, it tends to sag in the middle -increasingly so with greater widths— making finishing difficult to impossible above a certain threshold. A possible 90-inch finished width is contingent upon having a good finishing set-up capable of handling the present performance fabric. This potential for difficulties would only become compounded at the larger widths required for bed sheets.

In one process, fabric undergoes a heat setting finishing process. Applying a moisture-wicking finish to another fabric— like cotton— that can be produced at larger widths appears unlikely to match the moisture-control properties of the present fabric, as polyester itself is naturally moisture -resistant and there are physical actions (e.g. capillary action) at play. Further, the use of cotton comes at the expense of breathability and heat-transfer capabilities (as confirmed by laboratory testing) and stretchability.

Other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising

a first item of sleepwear or bedding to be used as part of a sleep system, a second item of sleepwear or bedding to be used with the first item as part of the sleep system,

at least one of the first item and second item comprising a performance fabric, the first item to dissipate moisture and heat from a body of a user from an inside of the first item to an outside of the first item,

the second item to dissipate moisture and heat that has been dissipated by the first item.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 in which both the first item in the second item comprise performance fabrics.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 in which the performance fabric comprises a knitted fabric.

4. The apparatus of claim 1 in which the performance fabric comprises a man- made fiber.

6. The apparatus of claim 1 in which at least one of the first item and second item comprises an item of sleepwear, and the item of sleepwear is close-fitting.

7. The apparatus of claim 1 in which at least one of the first item and second item is to be in contact with the user's skin.

8. The apparatus of claim 7 in which the item that is in contact with the user's skin comprises an item of sleepwear.

9. The apparatus of claim 1 in which the first item is in contact with skin of the user, and the second item is in contact with the first item.

10. The apparatus of claim 1 in which moisture is dissipated.

11. The apparatus of claim 1 in which heat is dissipated.

12. The apparatus of claim 1 in which one of the items comprises sleepwear that is sized and shaped for a female user.

13. The apparatus of claim 1 in which one of the items comprises you were that is sized and shaped for a male user.

14. The apparatus of claim 1 in which one of the items comprises a bed sheet.

15. The apparatus of claim 1 in which one of the items comprises a pillow case.

16. The apparatus of claim in which one of the items comprises a blanket.

17. The apparatus of claim in which one of the items comprises a comforter.

18. The apparatus of claim in which one of the items comprises a duvet cover.

19. The apparatus of claim in which one of the items comprises a blanket.

20. The apparatus of claim in which one of the items comprises a gel topper.

21. The apparatus of claim in which one of the items comprises a mattress pad.

22. The apparatus of claim in which one of the items comprises a mattress pad topper.

23. The apparatus of claim in which one of the items comprises a pillow.

24. The apparatus of claim in which one of the items comprises a V-neck tee.

25. The apparatus of claim in which one of the items comprises a cami adjustable tank.

26. The apparatus of claim in which one of the items comprises a sleep bra.

27. The apparatus of claim in which one of the items comprises a racer back tank.

28. The apparatus of claim in which one of the items comprises a Capri pant.

29. The apparatus of claim in which one of the items comprises a boxer short.

30. The apparatus of claim in which one of the items comprises a boy short.

31. The apparatus of claim in which one of the items comprises a gym sleep short.

32. The apparatus of claim in which one of the items comprises a fold over pant.

33. The apparatus of claim in which one of the items comprises at least one of a cap sleeve tunic, nightie, romper, sleep Henley, hooded robe, double strap tank, V-neck sleep tank dress, V-neck sleep dress, perfect tank, yoke legging, drawstring pants, pajama shorts with tiered hem, pocket tee and short pajama short set, and long sleeve cover up.

34. The apparatus of claim 1 in which one of the items comprises at least one of a tank, a colorblock tee, sleeveless v-tee, v-tee, hoody, Henley, paneled long sleeve cover up, long robe, long pant, long short, boxer, paneled boxer short, drawstring short, drawstring pant, and boxer brief.

35. The apparatus of claim 1 in which one of the items comprises an item of sleepwear and the item of sleepwear comprises fashion-related elements.

36. The apparatus of claim 1 in which one of the items comprises an item of sleepwear and the item of sleepwear comprises compression elements.

37. The apparatus of claim 1 in which one of the items comprises an item of sleepwear and the item of sleepwear comprises mesh elements.

38. The apparatus of claim 1 in which at least one of the items comprises a base item.

39. The apparatus of claim 1 in which at least one of the items comprises a top item.

40. The apparatus of claim 1 in which the first item and the second item comprise items of sleepwear that are layered one on the other.

41. The apparatus of claim 1 in which the first item in the second item comprise items of betting that are layered one on the other.

42. The apparatus of claim 1 also comprising a third item of sleepwear or bedding and in which one of the items comprises a base item of bedding, one of the items comprises an item of sleepwear, and one of the items comprises a top item of bedding. 43. The apparatus of claim 1 also comprising packaging to contain both the first item in the second item.

44. The apparatus of claim 43 in which the packaging comprises information about the use of the first item in the second item in a sleep system.

45. The apparatus of claim 1 in which the first item and the second item are displayed in close proximity to one another for purchase by the user.

46. An apparatus comprising

an item of sleepwear that is close fitting and comprises a knitted performance fabric.

47. The apparatus of claim 46 in which the item of sleepwear comprises stitched together pieces of the knitted performance fabric.

48. The apparatus of claim 46 in which the item of sleepwear comprises fashion elements.

49. The apparatus of claim 46 in which the item is to be in contact with the user's skin.

50. The apparatus of claim 46 in which the item is sized and shaped for a female user.

51. The apparatus of claim 46 in which the item is sized and shaped for a male user.

52. The apparatus of claim 46 in which the item comprises a V-neck tee.

53. The apparatus of claim 46 in which the item comprises a cami adjustable tank.

54. The apparatus of claim 46 in which the item comprises a sleep bra.

55. The apparatus of claim 46 in which the item comprises a racer back tank.

56. The apparatus of claim 46 in which the item comprises a Capri pant.

57. The apparatus of claim 46 in which the item comprises a boxer short.

58. The apparatus of claim 46 in which the item comprises a boy short.

59. The apparatus of claim 46 in which the item comprises a gym sleep short.

60. The apparatus of claim 46 in which the item comprises a fold over pant.

61. The apparatus of claim 46 in which the item comprises at least one of a cap sleeve tunic, nightie, romper, sleep Henley, hooded robe, double strap tank, V-neck sleep tank dress, V-neck sleep dress, perfect tank, yoke legging, drawstring pants, pajama shorts with tiered hem, pocket tee and short pajama short set, and long sleeve cover up.

62. The apparatus of claim 46 in which the item comprises at least one of a tank, a colorblock tee, sleeveless v-tee, v-tee, hoody, Henley, paneled long sleeve cover up, long robe, long pant, long short, boxer, paneled boxer short, drawstring short, drawstring pant, and boxer brief.

63. The apparatus of claim 46 in which the item comprises compression elements.

64. The apparatus of claim 46 in which the item comprises mesh elements.

65. The apparatus of claim 46 in which the item comprises sleeve pieces.

66. The apparatus of claim 46 in which the item comprises leggings.

67. The apparatus of claim 1 in which one of the items is a bedding item that comprises at least two joined pieces of a performance fabric.

68. The apparatus of claim 1 in which the performance fabric comprises a knit fabric.

69. The apparatus of claim 1 in which one of the items is a sleepwear item that comprises pieces joined by flat lock seaming.

70. The apparatus of claim 1 in which one of the items is a sleepwear item that comprises pieces joined by flat seaming.

71. The apparatus of claim 1 in which one of the items is a sleepwear item that comprises flat lock hems.

72. The apparatus of claim 1 in which one of the items is a sleepwear item that comprises mesh inserts.

73. The apparatus of claim 1 in which one of the items is a sleepwear item that comprises a logo.

74. The apparatus of claim 1 in which one of the items is a sleepwear item that comprises logo elastic trim.

75. The apparatus of claim 1 in which one of the items is a sleepwear item that comprises color block designs.

76. An apparatus comprising

a first item of sleepwear or bedding to be used as part of a sleep system, a second item of sleepwear or bedding to be used with the first item as part of the sleep system,

at least one of the first item and second item comprising a performance fabric, and

a retail package holding both the first item and the second item for sale at retail.

77. An apparatus comprising

a retail display device on which are displayed a first item of sleepwear or bedding to be used as part of a sleep system and a second item of sleepwear or bedding to be used with the first item as part of the sleep system, and

an informational device that informs a purchaser that the first item and the second item are to be used together as part of the sleep system.

78. A method comprising

dissipating heat and moisture from a body of a person who is in bed by dissipating heat and moisture from the person's skin through a close-fitting sleepwear item made of a performance knit fabric, and

dissipating the heat and moisture from outside the sleepwear through a bedding item made of a performance knit fabric.