BED WITH STRAPS AND CONNECTORS

Abstract

Bed systems include a mattress that is configured to be attached to a foundation. The bed systems include a strap and a connector configured to hold the strap and connect the mattress and the foundation to each other.

Claims

1. A bed system comprising: a mattress; an adjustable foundation; and a connection system comprising a button and a clasp, wherein the button has a first diameter, wherein the clasp comprises a hole having a first portion with a second diameter larger than the first diameter of the button and a second portion with a third diameter smaller than the first diameter of the button.

2. The bed system of claim 1, wherein the button is connected to the adjustable foundation and the clasp is connected to the mattress.

3. The bed system of claim 1, wherein the connection system is configured to keep the mattress proximate to the adjustable foundation when the adjustable foundation moves.

4. The bed system of claim 1, wherein the connection system further comprises a first strap connecting the clasp to the mattress.

5. The bed system of claim 4, wherein the clasp is connected to a second strap on an opposing side of the clasp as the first strap.

6. The bed system of claim 4, wherein the adjustable foundation comprises a bar, wherein the clasp is sized to fit under the bar.

7. The bed system of claim 6, wherein the first strap and the clasp extend under the bar.

8. The bed system of claim 7, wherein the clasp connects to the button when the first strap extends under the bar.

9. The bed system of claim 1, wherein the button includes an outer flange that extends over a surface of the clasp.

10. A bed system comprising: a mattress; an adjustable foundation; a connection system comprising a button and a strap, wherein the strap has a slit sized to fit the button; and a connector housing fixed to the adjustable foundation and including (i) a channel partially recessed below a top surface of the adjustable foundation and configured to allow the strap to pass therethrough, and (ii) a bar that extends across the channel; wherein the strap is configured to, based on passing through the channel, extend under the bar and extend over the button at the slit.

11. The bed system of claim 10, wherein the slit is teardrop shaped.

12. The bed system of claim 10, wherein the slit is shaped as a straight line.

13. The bed system of claim 10, wherein the slit is formed by cutting the strap with a hot knife.

14. The bed system of claim 10, wherein the strap comprises stitching along a perimeter of the slit.

15. The bed system of claim 10, wherein the button comprises an outer flange and a screw.

16. The bed system of claim 15, wherein the outer flange is formed of a polymer and the screw is formed of metal.

17. A bed system comprising: a mattress; an adjustable foundation; and a connection system comprising a strap and a rotatable lever, wherein the strap has a slit sized to fit the rotatable lever.

18. The bed system of claim 17, wherein the rotatable lever comprises an oblong lobe and a lever arm, wherein the oblong lobe is configured to stretch the strap when the lever arm is rotated.

19. The bed system of claim 17, wherein the rotatable lever comprises at least one detent that interfaces the connection system to lock the rotatable lever in position when the rotatable lever is rotated to a connected position.

20. The bed system of claim 17, wherein the foundation comprises a bar, wherein the strap and the slit extend under the bar and the slit connects to the rotatable lever when the strap extends under the bar.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0015] FIG. 1 shows an example air bed system.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an example of various components of an air bed system.

[0017] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an example bed system with an adjustable frame.

[0018] FIG. 3B is a detailed side view of an example attachment mechanism of the example bed system of FIG. 3A.

[0019] FIG. 4 is a top view of an example bed foundation with connector assemblies.

[0020] FIG. 5 is a bottom view of an example mattress with straps.

[0021] FIG. 6A is a top view of an example connector assembly.

[0022] FIG. 6B is a side view of the connector assembly of FIG. 6A.

[0023] FIG. 7 is a bottom view of an example mattress opening for a strap.

[0024] FIG. 8A is a top view of an internal side of a bottom layer of the mattress of FIG. 7.

[0025] FIG. 8B is another top view of an internal side of a bottom layer of the mattress of FIG. 7.

[0026] FIG. 9A is a top view of an example reinforcement patch.

[0027] FIG. 9B is a top view of an example reinforcement patch.

[0028] FIG. 10 is a top view of an example bed foundation with connector assemblies.

[0029] FIG. 11 is a bottom view of an example mattress with straps.

[0030] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an example bed system with a left head section and a right head section.

[0031] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an example clasp.

[0032] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of another example clasp.

[0033] FIG. 15A is a top view of an example strap.

[0034] FIG. 15B is a perspective view of an example connector assembly with the strap of FIG. 15A.

[0035] FIG. 16A is a top view of another example strap.

[0036] FIG. 16B is a perspective view of an example connector assembly with the strap of FIG. 16A.

[0037] FIG. 16C illustrates example slit stitching patterns.

[0038] FIG. 17A illustrates an example connector assembly with a rotatable lever.

[0039] FIG. 17B illustrates the connector assembly of FIG. 17A in a connected position.

[0040] FIG. 17C illustrates a top view of a connector assembly housing of the connector assembly of FIG. 17A.

[0041] FIG. 17D shows a bottom view of the rotatable lever of FIG. 17A.

[0042] FIG. 18A illustrates an example connector assembly with a rotatable lever.

[0043] FIG. 18B illustrates the connector assembly of FIG. 18A in a connected position.

[0044] FIG. 18C illustrates a top view of a connector assembly housing of the connector assembly of FIG. 18A.

[0045] FIG. 18D shows a bottom view of the rotatable lever of FIG. 18A.

[0046] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] This disclosure relates to bed systems (such as an airbed or other type of bed) that include a mattress and a foundation that can be connected to each other using, for example, mechanical mechanisms. The bed system can include one or more attachment mechanisms that can connect the mattress and the foundation to each other. For example, a bed system can include a plurality of mattress attachment mechanisms that can include a strap and a connector assembly that is configured to hold the strap. Exemplary embodiments of the strap can include a clasp, a slit, or other connectors that interface with and connect to a button, rotatable lever, or other attachments to connect the mattress to the foundation. In some aspects, the connection of the clasp, slit, or other connector to the button, rotatable lever, or other attachment pulls the mattress and foundation together and reduces or minimizes a gap between the mattress and the foundation. The reduced and/or minimized gap can provide improved contouring of the mattress to the foundation as the foundation is articulated into various positions.

Example Airbed Hardware

[0048] FIG. 1 shows an example air bed system 100 that includes a bed 112. The bed 112 can be a mattress that includes at least one air or fluid chamber 114 surrounded by a resilient border 116 and encapsulated by bed ticking 118. The resilient border 116 can comprise any suitable material, such as foam. In some implementations, the resilient border 116 can combine with a top layer or layers of foam (not shown in FIG. 1) to form an upside down foam tub. In other implementations, mattress structure can be varied as suitable for the application.

[0049] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the bed 112 can be a two chamber design having first and second fluid chambers, such as a first air chamber 114A and a second air chamber 114B. Sometimes, the bed 112 can include chambers for use with fluids other than air that are suitable for the application. For example, the fluids can include liquid. In some implementations, such as single beds or kids' beds, the bed 112 can include a single air chamber 114A or 114B or multiple air chambers 114A and 114B. Although not depicted, sometimes, the bed 112 can include additional air chambers. In other implementations, the bed 112 may not include any air or fluid chambers.

[0050] The first and second air chambers 114A and 114B can be in fluid communication with a pump 120. The pump 120 can be in electrical communication with a remote control 122 via control box 124. The control box 124 can include a wired or wireless communications interface for communicating with one or more devices, including the remote control 122. The control box 124 can be configured to operate the pump 120 to cause increases and decreases in the fluid pressure of the first and second air chambers 114A and 114B based upon commands input by a user using the remote control 122. In some implementations, the control box 124 is integrated into a housing of the pump 120. Moreover, sometimes, the pump 120 can be in wireless communication (e.g., via a home network, WIFI, BLUETOOTH, or other wireless network) with a mobile device via the control box 124. The mobile device can include but is not limited to the user's smartphone, cell phone, laptop, tablet, computer, wearable device, home automation device, or other computing device. A mobile application can be presented at the mobile device and provide functionality for the user to control the bed 112 and view information about the bed 112. The user can input commands in the mobile application presented at the mobile device. The inputted commands can be transmitted to the control box 124, which can operate the pump 120 based upon the commands.

[0051] The remote control 122 can include a display 126, an output selecting mechanism 128, a pressure increase button 129, and a pressure decrease button 130. The remote control 122 can include one or more additional output selecting mechanisms and/or buttons. The display 126 can present information to the user about settings of the bed 112. For example, the display 126 can present pressure settings of both the first and second air chambers 114A and 114B or one of the first and second air chambers 114A and 114B. Sometimes, the display 126 can be a touch screen, and can receive input from the user indicating one or more commands to control pressure in the first and second air chambers 114A and 114B and/or other settings of the bed 112.

[0052] The output selecting mechanism 128 can allow the user to switch air flow generated by the pump 120 between the first and second air chambers 114A and 114B, thus enabling control of multiple air chambers with a single remote control 122 and a single pump 120. For example, the output selecting mechanism 128 can by a physical control (e.g., switch or button) or an input control presented on the display 126. Alternatively, separate remote control units can be provided for each air chamber 114A and 114B and can each include the ability to control multiple air chambers. Pressure increase and decrease buttons 129 and 130 can allow the user to increase or decrease the pressure, respectively, in the air chamber selected with the output selecting mechanism 128. Adjusting the pressure within the selected air chamber can cause a corresponding adjustment to the firmness of the respective air chamber. In some implementations, the remote control 122 can be omitted or modified as appropriate for an application.

[0053] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an example of various components of an air bed system. These components can be used in the example air bed system 100. The control box 124 can include a power supply 134, a processor 136, a memory 137, a switching mechanism 138, and an analog to digital (A/D) converter 140. The switching mechanism 138 can be, for example, a relay or a solid state switch. In some implementations, the switching mechanism 138 can be located in the pump 120 rather than the control box 124. The pump 120 and the remote control 122 can be in two-way communication with the control box 124. The pump 120 includes a motor 142, a pump manifold 143, a relief valve 144, a first control valve 145A, a second control valve 145B, and a pressure transducer 146. The pump 120 is fluidly connected with the first air chamber 114A and the second air chamber 114B via a first tube 148A and a second tube 148B, respectively. The first and second control valves 145A and 145B can be controlled by switching mechanism 138, and are operable to regulate the flow of fluid between the pump 120 and first and second air chambers 114A and 114B, respectively.

[0054] In some implementations, the pump 120 and the control box 124 can be provided and packaged as a single unit. In some implementations, the pump 120 and the control box 124 can be provided as physically separate units. The control box 124, the pump 120, or both can be integrated within or otherwise contained within a bed frame, foundation, or bed support structure that supports the bed 112. Sometimes, the control box 124, the pump 120, or both can be located outside of a bed frame, foundation, or bed support structure (as shown in the example in FIG. 1).

[0055] The air bed system 100 in FIG. 2 includes the two air chambers 114A and 114B and the single pump 120 of the bed 112 depicted in FIG. 1. However, other implementations can include an air bed system having two or more air chambers and one or more pumps incorporated into the air bed system to control the air chambers. For example, a separate pump can be associated with each air chamber. As another example, a pump can be associated with multiple chambers. A first pump can be associated with air chambers that extend longitudinally from a left side to a midpoint of the air bed system 100 and a second pump can be associated with air chambers that extend longitudinally from a right side to the midpoint of the air bed system 100. Separate pumps can allow each air chamber to be inflated or deflated independently and/or simultaneously. Additional pressure transducers can also be incorporated into the air bed system 100 such that a separate pressure transducer can be associated with each air chamber.

[0056] As an illustrative example, in use, the processor 136 can send a decrease pressure command to one of air chambers 114A or 114B, and the switching mechanism 138 can convert the low voltage command signals sent by the processor 136 to higher operating voltages sufficient to operate the relief valve 144 of the pump 120 and open the respective control valve 145A or 145B. Opening the relief valve 144 can allow air to escape from the air chamber 114A or 114B through the respective air tube 148A or 148B. During deflation, the pressure transducer 146 can send pressure readings to the processor 136 via the A/D converter 140. The A/D converter 140 can receive analog information from pressure transducer 146 and can convert the analog information to digital information useable by the processor 136. The processor 136 can send the digital signal to the remote control 122 to update the display 126 to convey the pressure information to the user. The processor 136 can also send the digital signal to other devices in wired or wireless communication with the air bed system, including but not limited to mobile devices described herein. The user can then view pressure information associated with the air bed system at their device instead of at, or in addition to, the remote control 122.

[0057] As another example, the processor 136 can send an increase pressure command. The pump motor 142 can be energized in response to the increase pressure command and send air to the designated one of the air chambers 114A or 114B through the air tube 148A or 148B via electronically operating the corresponding valve 145A or 145B. While air is being delivered to the designated air chamber 114A or 114B to increase the chamber firmness, the pressure transducer 146 can sense pressure within the pump manifold 143. The pressure transducer 146 can send pressure readings to the processor 136 via the A/D converter 140. The processor 136 can use the information received from the A/D converter 140 to determine the difference between the actual pressure in air chamber 114A or 114B and the desired pressure. The processor 136 can send the digital signal to the remote control 122 to update display 126.

[0058] Generally speaking, during an inflation or deflation process, the pressure sensed within the pump manifold 143 can provide an approximation of the actual pressure within the respective air chamber that is in fluid communication with the pump manifold 143. An example method includes turning off the pump 120, allowing the pressure within the air chamber 114A or 114B and the pump manifold 143 to equalize, then sensing the pressure within the pump manifold 143 with the pressure transducer 146. Providing a sufficient amount of time to allow the pressures within the pump manifold 143 and chamber 114A or 114B to equalize can result in pressure readings that are accurate approximations of actual pressure within air chamber 114A or 114B. In some implementations, the pressure of the air chambers 114A and/or 114B can be continuously monitored using multiple pressure sensors (not shown). The pressure sensors can be positioned within the air chambers. The pressure sensors can also be fluidly connected to the air chambers, such as along the air tubes 148A and 148B.

[0059] In some implementations, information collected by the pressure transducer 146 can be analyzed to determine various states of a user laying on the bed 112. For example, the processor 136 can use information collected by the pressure transducer 146 to determine a heartrate or a respiration rate for the user. As an illustrative example, the user can be laying on a side of the bed 112 that includes the chamber 114A. The pressure transducer 146 can monitor fluctuations in pressure of the chamber 114A, and this information can be used to determine the user's heartrate and/or respiration rate. As another example, additional processing can be performed using the collected data to determine a sleep state of the user (e.g., awake, light sleep, deep sleep). For example, the processor 136 can determine when the user falls asleep and, while asleep, the various sleep states (e.g., sleep stages) of the user. Based on the determined heartrate, respiration rate, and/or sleep states of the user, the processor 136 can determine information about the user's sleep quality. The processor 136 can, for example, determine how well the user slept during a particular sleep cycle. The processor 136 can also determine user sleep cycle trends. Accordingly, the processor 136 can generate recommendations to improve the user's sleep quality and overall sleep cycle. Information that is determined about the user's sleep cycle (e.g., heartrate, respiration rate, sleep states, sleep quality, recommendations to improve sleep quality, etc.) can be transmitted to the user's mobile device and presented in a mobile application, as described above.

[0060] Additional information associated with the user of the air bed system 100 that can be determined using information collected by the pressure transducer 146 includes user motion, presence on a surface of the bed 112, weight, heart arrhythmia, snoring, partner snore, and apnea. One or more other health conditions of the user can also be determined based on the information collected by the pressure transducer 146. Taking user presence detection for example, the pressure transducer 146 can be used to detect the user's presence on the bed 112, e.g., via a gross pressure change determination and/or via one or more of a respiration rate signal, heartrate signal, and/or other biometric signals. Detection of the user's presence can be beneficial to determine, by the processor 136, adjustment(s) to make to settings of the bed 112 (e.g., adjusting a firmness when the user is present to a user-preferred firmness setting) and/or peripheral devices (e.g., turning off lights when the user is present, activating a heating or cooling system, etc.).

[0061] For example, a simple pressure detection process can identify an increase in pressure as an indication that the user is present. As another example, the processor 136 can determine that the user is present if the detected pressure increases above a specified threshold (so as to indicate that a person or other object above a certain weight is positioned on the bed 112). As yet another example, the processor 136 can identify an increase in pressure in combination with detected slight, rhythmic fluctuations in pressure as corresponding to the user being present. The presence of rhythmic fluctuations can be identified as being caused by respiration or heart rhythm (or both) of the user. The detection of respiration or a heartbeat can distinguish between the user being present on the bed and another object (e.g., a suitcase, a pet, a pillow, etc.) being placed thereon.

[0062] In some implementations, pressure fluctuations can be measured at the pump 120. For example, one or more pressure sensors can be located within one or more internal cavities of the pump 120 to detect pressure fluctuations within the pump 120. The fluctuations detected at the pump 120 can indicate pressure fluctuations in the chambers 114A and/or 114B. One or more sensors located at the pump 120 can be in fluid communication with the chambers 114A and/or 114B, and the sensors can be operative to determine pressure within the chambers 114A and/or 114B. The control box 124 can be configured to determine at least one vital sign (e.g., heartrate, respiratory rate) based on the pressure within the chamber 114A or the chamber 114B.

[0063] The control box 124 can also analyze a pressure signal detected by one or more pressure sensors to determine a heartrate, respiration rate, and/or other vital signs of the user lying or sitting on the chamber 114A and/or 114B. More specifically, when a user lies on the bed 112 and is positioned over the chamber 114A, each of the user's heart beats, breaths, and other movements (e.g., hand, arm, leg, foot, or other gross body movements) can create a force on the bed 112 that is transmitted to the chamber 114A. As a result of this force input, a wave can propagate through the chamber 114A and into the pump 120. A pressure sensor located at the pump 120 can detect the wave, and thus the pressure signal outputted by the sensor can indicate a heartrate, respiratory rate, or other information regarding the user.

[0064] With regard to sleep state, the air bed system 100 can determine the user's sleep state by using various biometric signals such as heartrate, respiration, and/or movement of the user. While the user is sleeping, the processor 136 can receive one or more of the user's biometric signals (e.g., heartrate, respiration, motion, etc.) and can determine the user's present sleep state based on the received biometric signals. In some implementations, signals indicating fluctuations in pressure in one or both of the chambers 114A and 114B can be amplified and/or filtered to allow for more precise detection of heartrate and respiratory rate.

[0065] Sometimes, the processor 136 can receive additional biometric signals of the user from one or more other sensors or sensor arrays positioned on or otherwise integrated into the air bed system 100. For example, one or more sensors can be attached or removably attached to a top surface of the air bed system 100 and configured to detect signals such as heartrate, respiration rate, and/or motion. The processor 136 can combine biometric signals received from pressure sensors located at the pump 120, the pressure transducer 146, and/or the sensors positioned throughout the air bed system 100 to generate accurate and more precise information about the user and their sleep quality.

[0066] Sometimes, the control box 124 can perform a pattern recognition algorithm or other calculation based on the amplified and filtered pressure signal(s) to determine the user's heartrate and/or respiratory rate. For example, the algorithm or calculation can be based on assumptions that a heartrate portion of the signal has a frequency in a range of 0.5-4.0 Hz and that a respiration rate portion of the signal has a frequency in a range of less than 1 Hz. Sometimes, the control box 124 can use one or more machine learning models to determine the user's health information. The models can be trained using training data that includes training pressure signals and expected heartrates and/or respiratory rates. Sometimes, the control box 124 can determine user health information by using a lookup table that corresponds to sensed pressure signals.

[0067] The control box 124 can also be configured to determine other characteristics of the user based on the received pressure signal, such as blood pressure, tossing and turning movements, rolling movements, limb movements, weight, presence or lack of presence of the user, and/or the identity of the user.

[0068] For example, the pressure transducer 146 can be used to monitor the air pressure in the chambers 114A and 114B of the bed 112. If the user on the bed 112 is not moving, the air pressure changes in the air chamber 114A or 114B can be relatively minimal, and can be attributable to respiration and/or heartbeat. When the user on the bed 112 is moving, however, the air pressure in the mattress can fluctuate by a much larger amount. The pressure signals generated by the pressure transducer 146 and received by the processor 136 can be filtered and indicated as corresponding to motion, heartbeat, or respiration. The processor 136 can attribute such fluctuations in air pressure to the user's sleep quality. Such attributions can be determined based on applying one or more machine learning models and/or algorithms to the pressure signals. For example, if the user shifts and turns a lot during a sleep cycle (for example, in comparison to historic trends of the user's sleep cycles), the processor 136 can determine that the user experienced poor sleep during that particular sleep cycle.

[0069] In some implementations, rather than performing the data analysis in the control box 124 with the processor 136, a digital signal processor (DSP) can be provided to analyze the data collected by the pressure transducer 146. Alternatively, the collected data can be sent to a cloud-based computing system for remote analysis.

[0070] In some implementations, the example air bed system 100 further includes a temperature controller configured to increase, decrease, or maintain a temperature of the bed 112, for example for the comfort of the user. For example, a pad (e.g., mat, layer, etc.) can be placed on top of or be part of the bed 112, or can be placed on top of or be part of one or both of the chambers 114A and 114B. Air can be pushed through the pad and vented to cool off the user on the bed 112. Additionally or alternatively, the pad can include a heating element used to keep the user warm. In some implementations, the temperature controller can receive temperature readings from the pad. The temperature controller can determine whether the temperature readings are less than or greater than some threshold range and/or value. Based on this determination, the temperature controller can actuate components to push air through the pad to cool off the user or active the heating element. In some implementations, separate pads are used for different sides of the bed 112 (e.g., corresponding to the locations of the chambers 114A and 114B) to provide for differing temperature control for the different sides of the bed 112. Each pad can be selectively controlled by the temperature controller to provide cooling or heating preferred by each user on the different sides of the bed 112. For example, a first user on a left side of the bed 112 can prefer to have their side of the bed 112 cooled during the night while a second user on a right side of the bed 112 can prefer to have their side of the bed 112 warmed during the night.

[0071] In some implementations, the user of the air bed system 100 can use an input device, such as the remote control 122 or a mobile device as described above, to input a desired temperature for a surface of the bed 112 (or for a portion of the surface of the bed 112, for example at a foot region, a lumbar or waist region, a shoulder region, and/or a head region of the bed 112). The desired temperature can be encapsulated in a command data structure that includes the desired temperature and also identifies the temperature controller as the desired component to be controlled. The command data structure can then be transmitted via Bluetooth or another suitable communication protocol (e.g., WIFI, a local network, etc.) to the processor 136. In various examples, the command data structure is encrypted before being transmitted. The temperature controller can then configure its elements to increase or decrease the temperature of the pad depending on the temperature input provided at the remote control 122 by the user.

[0072] In some implementations, data can be transmitted from a component back to the processor 136 or to one or more display devices, such as the display 126 of the remote controller 122. For example, the current temperature as determined by a sensor element of a temperature controller, the pressure of the bed, the current position of the foundation or other information can be transmitted to control box 124. The control box 124 can transmit this information to the remote control 122 to be displayed to the user (e.g., on the display 126). As described above, the control box 124 can also transmit the received information to a mobile device to be displayed in a mobile application or other graphical user interface (GUI) to the user.

[0073] In some implementations, the example air bed system 100 further includes an adjustable foundation and an articulation controller configured to adjust the position of the bed 112 by adjusting the adjustable foundation supporting the bed. For example, the articulation controller can adjust the bed 112 from a flat position to a position in which a head portion of a mattress of the bed is inclined upward (e.g., to facilitate a user sitting up in bed and/or watching television). The bed 112 can also include multiple separately articulable sections. As an illustrative example, the bed 112 can include one or more of a head portion, a lumbar/waist portion, a leg portion, and/or a foot portion, all of which can be separately articulable. As another example, portions of the bed 112 corresponding to the locations of the chambers 114A and 114B can be articulated independently from each other, to allow one user positioned on the bed 112 surface to rest in a first position (e.g., a flat position or other desired position) while a second user rests in a second position (e.g., a reclining position with the head raised at an angle from the waist or another desired position). Separate positions can also be set for two different beds (e.g., two twin beds placed next to each other). The foundation of the bed 112 can include more than one zone that can be independently adjusted.

[0074] Sometimes, the bed 112 can be adjusted to one or more user-defined positions based on user input and/or user preferences. For example, the bed 112 can automatically adjust, by the articulation controller, to one or more user-defined settings. As another example, the user can control the articulation controller to adjust the bed 112 to one or more user-defined positions. Sometimes, the bed 112 can be adjusted to one or more positions that may provide the user with improved or otherwise improve sleep and sleep quality. For example, a head portion on one side of the bed 112 can be automatically articulated, by the articulation controller, when one or more sensors of the air bed system 100 detect that a user sleeping on that side of the bed 112 is snoring. As a result, the user's snoring can be mitigated so that the snoring does not wake up another user sleeping in the bed 112.

[0075] In some implementations, the bed 112 can be adjusted using one or more devices in communication with the articulation controller or instead of the articulation controller. For example, the user can change positions of one or more portions of the bed 112 using the remote control 122 described above. The user can also adjust the bed 112 using a mobile application or other graphical user interface presented at a mobile computing device of the user.

[0076] The articulation controller can also provide different levels of massage to one or more portions of the bed 112 for one or more users. The user(s) can adjust one or more massage settings for the portions of the bed 112 using the remote control 122 and/or a mobile device in communication with the air bed system 100.

[0077] FIG. 3A shows another example bed system 300 that includes a mattress 302 and an articulable foundation 304. The mattress 302 can be positioned on top of the foundation 304 to provide a comfortable, supportive sleep area for the user. The mattress 302 can include a support structure (see e.g., the air chambers 114A, 114B surrounded by the resilient border 116 as shown in FIG. 1) encapsulated by an outer fabric layer 306. The mattress 302 can include a top 308, a bottom 310, and sides 312 extending between the top 308 and the bottom 310. The foundation 304 can include one or more sections 314a, 314b, 314c, and 314d. One or more of the sections 314a, 314b, 314c, and 314d can be articulable sections (e.g. panels or platforms) for positioning various sections of the mattress 302 into various spatial configurations, as desired by the user. The foundation 304 can move into the various spatial configurations by changing the heights and adjusting the angles of one or more of its articulable sections 314a, 314b, 314c, and 314d relative to one another.

[0078] The bottom 310 of the mattress 302 can be coupled to the foundation 304 by one or more mattress attachment mechanisms 320 (further illustrated in FIG. 3B) such that the mattress 302 does not slide along a top surface of the foundation 304 when the articulable sections 314a, 314b, 314c, and 314d change their positions and can potentially move the mattress 302 thereon. This allows the mattress 302 to remain aligned with the foundation 304 when articulated such that the mattress 302 does not slide out of alignment with the foundation 304. The one or more mattress attachment mechanisms 320 can hold the mattress 302 in position to reduce or prevent movement of the mattress 302 from sliding out of position with respect to the foundation 304 (e.g. avoid falling off the foundation 304). The one or more mattress attachment mechanisms 320 can reduce or minimize a gap between the mattress 302 and the foundation 304. The one or more mattress attachment mechanisms 320 can maintain the mattress 302 in a consistent and predictable position that prevents or restricts the mattress 302 from bunching against an adjacent structure such as a wall or a head or foot frame. The mattress attachment mechanisms 320 can thus provide a secure and reliable method of attaching or detaching the mattress 302 to the foundation 304.

[0079] FIG. 3B shows a detailed view of a mattress attachment mechanism 320 coupling the mattress 302 to the foundation 304 of FIG. 3A. In the depicted implementation, the mattress attachment mechanism 320 can be attached to a portion of the mattress 302 (e.g., the outer fabric layer 306) and a portion of the foundation 304. Respective parts of the mattress attachment mechanism 320 can be attached to portions of the mattress 302 and foundation 304 by one or more mechanical fasteners (e.g., adhesive, a screw, a nut, a bolt, a staple, a hook, or the like). As shown in FIG. 3B, the outer fabric layer 306 can be elastic so as to at least partially stretch when the mattress attachment mechanism 320 is in tension. In some embodiments, the outer fabric layer 306 can be a stiff fabric that has little or no stretch when the mattress attachment mechanism 320 is in tension.

[0080] The mattress attachment mechanism 320 can include a strap 322 and a connector assembly 324. The strap 322 can be configured to connect the mattress 302 to the foundation 304. In some implementations, the strap 322 has a clasp 326 on an end of the strap 322. The strap 322 can extend from the bottom surface 310 of the mattress 302, and the clasp 326 can be configured to connect to a button 325 of the connector assembly 324. In other implementations, the strap 322 can extend from the foundation 304 and connect to the mattress 302.

[0081] The connector assembly 324 can be attached to the foundation 304, and the connector assembly 324 can include a bar 330, a channel 332, and the button 325. The bar 330 can extend across the channel 332, and the channel 332 can extend beneath the bar 330. In some implementations, the channel 332 has a depth to create an area for the strap 322 and the clasp 326 to pass between the bar 330 and the channel 332. In some embodiments, the depth of the channel 332 can create a recessed channel that has a depth that extends below the top surface of the foundation 304. In some embodiments, the bar 330 can be raised above a top surface of the connector assembly 324, and the strap 322 and the clasp 326 can pass between the bar 330 and the top surface of the connector assembly 324. The button 325 can be spaced apart from the bar 330 and can be configured to connect to the clasp 326 at the end of the strap 322 to secure the strap 322 to the connector assembly 324. In other implementations, the connector assembly 324 can be attached to the mattress 302 and receive the strap 322 and the clasp 326 that extend from the foundation 304.

[0082] In some embodiments, the clasp 326 can be connected to the strap 322 and to a second strap 327 that is connected to an opposite end of the clasp 326 as the strap 322. The second strap 327 can facilitate an improved connection between the mattress 302 and the foundation 304. For example, a user can grasp the second strap 327 while navigating the strap 322 and the clasp 326 under the bar 330 and through the channel 332. The second strap 327 provides additional leverage for the user to pull the strap 322 and clasp 326 to engage the clasp 326 with the button 325. The additional leverage and ease of use from the second strap 327 facilitates a tighter fit between the mattress 302 and the foundation 304, reducing and/or minimizing gap between the mattress 302 and the foundation 304. This reduced and/or minimized gap can provide improved contouring of the mattress 302 to the foundation 304 as the foundation 304 is articulated into various positions.

[0083] With the strap 322 connected to the connector assembly 324 (e.g., via the connection of the clasp 326 to the button 325), the mattress 302 and the foundation 304 are connected to each other. The strap 322 and connector assembly 324 pulls the mattress 302 and foundation 304 together and reduces or minimizes a gap between the mattress 302 and the foundation 304. The reduced and/or minimized gap can provide improved contouring of the mattress 302 to the foundation 304 as the foundation 304 is articulated into various positions. An example of the connector assembly 324 is further described in FIGS. 6A and 6B as a connector assembly 424.

[0084] FIG. 4 shows a top view of an example foundation 404 including four locations for attaching a connector assembly 424. The depicted foundation 404 includes four sections: a head section 414a, a midsection 414b, a lower midsection 414c, and a foot section 414d. The foundation 404 can be sized and shaped for any mattress size, for example, a king, a split-top king, a queen, a full, a twin, a twin XL sized mattress, or a custom-sized mattress. The connector assemblies 424 can be positioned at one or more locations along a top surface of the foundation 404 such that connector assemblies 424 interface with one or more straps (e.g., straps 322, 522) to secure a mattress (e.g., a mattress 302, 502) to the foundation 404. In some implementations, the connector assemblies 424 can include various fastener assemblies, including buttons, clasp connectors, snap-connectors, adjustable snap connectors, buckle connectors, Velcro, hook and loop fasteners, cam-lock fasteners, adhesives, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the connector assemblies 424 can share some or all of the features with connector assemblies 324.

[0085] In some cases, the foundation 404 can accommodate a number of connector assemblies 424 (e.g., two, three, four, five, six, eight, ten, twelve, fourteen, sixteen, eighteen, twenty, thirty, forty, fifty, or greater than fifty). In some cases, the connector assemblies 424 can be positioned at locations symmetrically along the foundation 404 (e.g., with respect to a longitudinal axis of the foundation 404) to facilitate securement and alignment of the mattress. In some instances, the positions of the connector assemblies 424 reduce or minimize the amount of shear force exerted on the mattress, preventing misalignment, separation, or detachment of the mattress from the foundation 404. Alternatively, in some cases, the connector assemblies 424 can be asymmetrically positioned along the surface of the foundation 404 to allow for easier movement and conformance of the mattress when the foundation 404 is articulated. For example, connector assemblies 424 can be positioned in areas such as at the peripheral portions 418 of the midsection 414b to provide improved conformance of the mattress to the foundation 404 when the foundation 404 is articulated. Connector assemblies 424 can additionally be positioned along the central portion 416 and/or the peripheral portions 418 in any of the head section 414a, the midsection 414b, the lower midsection 414c, and the foot section 414d. The depicted foundation 404 can be compatible and couplable with a mattress (see e.g., mattress 502) having a complementary set of straps (e.g., straps 522) attached along the bottom surface of the mattress.

[0086] As shown in FIG. 4, the midsection 414b of the foundation 404 includes one set of two symmetrically positioned connector assemblies 424, and the foot section 414d includes a set of two symmetrically positioned connector assemblies 424. In some cases, some of the articulable sections of the foundation 404 may not include connector assemblies 424 (e.g., the head section 414a and the lower midsection 414c). In some cases, any one section of the foundation 404 can include one or more sets of connector assemblies 424. In some cases, any one section of the foundation 404 can include a single connector assembly 424 or a set of connector assemblies 424, either symmetrically or asymmetrically positioned.

[0087] The foundation 404 can include a central portion 416 that is positioned between peripheral portions 418. The peripheral portions 418 can extend from the central portion 416 to the sides 413 of the foundation 404. In the implementation depicted in FIG. 4, the connector assemblies 424 at the midsection 414b are located at peripheral portions 418 of the foundation 404. The connector assemblies 424 at the foot section 414d are positioned at peripheral portions 418 of the foundation 404.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 4, similarly to the connector assembly 324 above, each of the connector assemblies 424 includes a bar 430, a channel 432, and a button 425. The connector assemblies 424 can be arranged on the foundation 404 so that the bar 430 that extends across the channel 432 is closer to the head end 415 than the button 425. Said another way, the button 425 of each connector assembly 424 is arranged closer to the foot end 417 than the bar 430 of the connector assembly 424 is. In some cases, the connector assemblies 424 may be positioned on the foundation 404 such that the connector assemblies 424 can be easily accessed during assembly and/or disassembly of the bed system. As may be appreciated, any suitable location or positioning of the connector assembly 324 may be used. An example of the connector assembly 424 is further described in FIG. 6.

[0089] FIG. 5 shows a bottom view of an example mattress 502 including four locations for attaching a strap 522. The depicted mattress 502 can be sized and shaped as any mattress size, for example, a king, a split-top king, a queen, a full, a twin, a twin XL sized mattress, or a custom-sized mattress. The straps 522 can be arranged to correspond to the positions of the connector assemblies of the foundation to which the mattress is supported and coupled. The straps 522 can be positioned at one or more locations along a bottom surface of the mattress 502 such that straps 522 interface with one or more connector assemblies (e.g., connector assemblies 424) to secure the mattress 502 to a foundation (e.g., foundation 304, 404). In some implementations, the foundation 404 and the mattress 502 are configured to be connected to each other by connecting the clasps 526 at the end of the straps 522 to the buttons 425 of each of the corresponding connector assemblies 424. The depicted mattress 502 can include four sections: a head section 514a, an upper midsection 514b, a lower midsection 514c, and a foot section 514d that can be configured to align with the head section 414a, the midsection 414b, the lower midsection 414c, and the foot section 414d of the foundation 404.

[0090] In the depicted implementation of FIG. 5, the straps 522 are shown in an uninstalled configuration where the straps 522 are not secured to the mattress 502. As also shown in FIGS. 7, 8A, and 8B, each of the straps 522 can include a strap retainer 523, a loop 525, and the clasp 526 that is configured to connect to a button at the connector assembly (e.g., button 325, 425). The strap retainer 523 is connected to the loop 525 of the strap 522 at an end opposite the first portion 526a of the clasp 526. The mattress 502 can include openings 541 in the bottom layer 510 of the mattress 502, and the openings 541 are configured to receive the strap retainers 523 to secure the straps 522 to the bottom layer 510 of the mattress 502. For example, the strap retainer 523 can be inserted through the opening 541 and can be secured by rotating the strap retainer 523 so that a width of the strap retainer 523 cannot be pulled through the opening 541 while the strap retainer 523 is positioned adjacent to an internal side of the bottom layer 510 of the mattress 502 (see e.g., FIGS. 7, 8A, and 8B that show an example strap 722 that shares features with the strap 522).

[0091] Still referring to FIG. 5, in some cases, the mattress 502 can accommodate a number of straps 522 (e.g., two, three, four, five, six, eight, ten, twelve, fourteen, sixteen, eighteen, twenty, thirty, forty, fifty, or greater than fifty). In some cases, the straps 522 can be positioned at locations symmetrically along the mattress 502 to facilitate securement and alignment of the mattress to the foundation. In some instances, the positions of the straps 522 can be aligned with the connector assemblies (e.g., connector assemblies 424) to reduce or minimize the amount of shear force exerted on the mattress 502, preventing misalignment, separation, or detachment of the mattress from the foundation. Alternatively, in some cases, the straps 522 can be asymmetrically positioned along the bottom 510 of the mattress 502 to allow for easier movement and conformance of the mattress 502 when the foundation is articulated. The depicted mattress 502 can be compatible and couplable with a foundation mattress (see e.g., foundation 404) having a complementary set of connector assemblies (e.g., connector assemblies 424) attached along the surface of the foundation.

[0092] As shown in FIG. 5, the upper midsection 514b of the mattress 502 includes one set of two symmetrically positioned openings 541 and straps 522, and the foot section 514d includes a set of two symmetrically positioned openings 541 and straps 522. In some cases, some of the sections of the mattress 502 may not include connector openings 541 and straps 522 (e.g., the head section 514a and the lower midsection 514c). In some cases, any one section of the mattress 502 can include one or more sets of openings 541 and straps 522. In some cases, any one section of the mattress 502 can include one opening 541 and one strap 522 or a set (e.g., two pairs, each pair including an opening 541 and a strap 522) of connector openings 541 and straps 522, either symmetrically or asymmetrically positioned.

[0093] The mattress 502 can include a central portion 516 that is positioned between peripheral portions 518. The central portion 516 can align with the central portion 416 of the foundation 402, and the peripheral portions 518 can align with the peripheral portions 418 of the foundation 402. In the implementation depicted in FIG. 5, the openings 541 at the upper midsection 514b are located at peripheral portions 518 of the mattress 502. The openings 541 at the foot section 514d are positioned at peripheral portions 518 of the mattress 502. The straps 522 and openings 541 can be positioned to align with and connect to the connector assemblies 424 of the foundation 404 to connect the mattress 502 to the foundation 404.

[0094] FIGS. 6A and 6B show an example connector assembly 424. The connector assembly 424 can share features with, be implemented as, and/or be interchangeable with the connector assembly 324 described herein. The connector assembly 424 can include a plate 423 that is attached to a foundation (e.g., the foundation 304, 404), and the connector assembly 424 can include a bar 430, a recessed plate 431, a channel 432, and a button 425 that is configured to couple to the clasp 526 provided at a strap 522 in FIG. 7. The bar 430 can extend across the channel 432, and the channel 432 can extend beneath the bar 430. In some implementations, the bar 430 can be a nylon- glass bar, a metal bar, a plastic bar, a wooden bar, or any other suitable material. In some implementations, the bar 430 may be comprised of any number of combinations thereof.

[0095] In some implementations, the channel 432 extends below the surface of the plate 423 and above a recessed plate 431 that defines the bottom of the channel 432, and a portion of the channel 432 extends between the recessed plate 431 and the bar 430. The recessed plate 431 has side walls 435 that extend from the surface of the plate 423 to a depth to create an area for a strap (e.g., strap 322, 522) to pass through the channel 432 between the bar 430 and the recessed plate 431. The side walls 435 of the recessed plate 431 can extend to the depth that is below the top surface of a foundation (e.g., foundation 304, 404) such that recessed plate 431 is positioned at least partially below the top surface of the foundation. For example, the foundation can include an opening that aligns with the installed location of the connector assembly 424. The opening in the foundation facilitates an area for the recessed plate 431 to extend below both the plate 423 of the connector assembly 424 and the surface of the foundation. The recessed plate 431 can create a recessed area in the foundation for the channel 432 to receive a strap (e.g., strap 322, 522) through the channel 432. In some implementations, the recessed plate 431 that is positioned below the top surface of the foundation can facilitate improved connection and contouring between a mattress and a foundation.

[0096] In some implementations, the depth of the side walls 435 can be shallowest at each end of the channel 432 and deepest underneath the bar 430. The channel 432 can have a tapered depth, where the depth at the side walls 435 gradually increases from each end of the channel 432 to the deepest area (e.g., deepest portion 438) under the bar 430. The channel 432 can be arranged asymmetrically or biased with respect to the bar 430. For example, the channel 432 has or is split into a first section 434 and a second section 436, the first section 434 and the second section 436 can be separated at a deepest portion 438. The first section 434 of the channel 432 is arranged at a connector side 437 (e.g., a side close to the connector portion 426b) and the second section 436 of the channel 432 is arranged at an outer side 439 opposite to the connector side 437 with respect to the bar 430. In some implementations, the first section 434 can have a larger length than the second section 436. Further, the deepest depth of the channel 432 can be defined at the deepest portion 438 where the first and second sections 434, 436 meet each other. In some aspects, the depth 435 can have a maximum depth of between 1 and 20 mm, between 2 and 15 mm, between 5 and 14 mm, and about 12 mm. As may be appreciated, any suitable depth may be used.

[0097] The button 425 can be aligned with a center of the bar 430 and the channel 432 and spaced apart from the bar 430 and the channel 432. The button 425 can be configured to connect to a mating portion of a strap (see, e.g., clasp 526 of FIG. 7) to secure the strap (e.g., strap 522) to the connector assembly 424. The button 425 can connect to the mating portion of the strap when the strap passes through the channel 432.

[0098] The connection between the strap (e.g., strap 522) and the connector assembly (e.g., connector assembly 424) can be of various types that facilitate a mating connection. In some implementations, the strap includes a clasp (e.g., clasp 526) that connects to a button (e.g., button 425) by extending over the button 425 and holding the button and clasp together. In some embodiments, the button can be a male side of the connector and the clasp can be a female side of the connector. The button and the clasp can connect to each other via an interference fit with the clasp receiving the button. In some implementations, the connector can include one or more fasteners, including clasp-connectors, button connectors, snap-connectors, adjustable snap connectors, buckle connectors, Velcro, hook and loop fasteners, cam-lock fasteners, adhesives, magnets, or any other suitable material or structure. In some implementations, the button and clasp can connect to each other using one or more combinations thereof.

[0099] In some implementations, combinations of connectors can be implemented to connect the mattress 502 to the foundation 404. For example, the button and the clasp can be implemented for some of the connector assemblies while other connector assemblies can include a magnetic connection between the mattress and the foundation. In some embodiments, the magnetic connection can replace one or more of the connector assemblies including the button and the clasp (e.g., as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5). In some embodiments, the magnetic connection can be in addition to the connector assemblies (e.g., as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5).

[0100] The button 425 of the connector can include a post foot that is attached to a surface of the foundation. The post foot can include the male side of the button 425 as shown in FIG. 6, which can be the post portion 453 of the post foot. The post foot can additionally include a foot portion that connects the male side of the button 425 to the foundation. The foot portion 455 can be a screw, a nail, a barbed fitting, or other fastener that connects the button 425 to the foundation. The post portion including the button 425 can partially extend from the surface of the foundation to which the button 425 is attached.

[0101] In some implementations, the male side of the button 425 can extend from a top surface of the foundation and the foot portion can be connected to the top surface of the foundation. In some implementations, the button 425 can include an outer flange 452 at a top portion of the post portion that extends beyond the post portion 453 to define a button diameter 457. The outer flange 452 can be an annular rim that extends outwardly from a central portion of the button 425. The outer flange 452 facilitates the connection between the button 425 and the strap (e.g., via connection to the clasp 526). For example, the outer flange 452 extends over a top surface of the clasp when connected to secure the button and the clasp together. In some embodiments, the button 425 can include a polymer and the foot portion 455 can include a screw (e.g., a metal screw).

[0102] FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the mattress 502 having an example mattress opening 541 and a strap 522 with a clasp 526 that configured to be inserted into and through the opening 541. FIG. 7 shows the strap 522 in an uninstalled configuration where the strap 522 is not secured to the mattress 502. The strap 522 can include a strap retainer 523 connected to a loop 525 of the strap 522 at an end opposite the clasp 526. The strap retainer 523 can be sewn, looped, adhered, or otherwise attached to the strap 522. For example, the strap 522 includes the loop 525 that extends around a central portion (e.g., central bar 531 in FIG. 8B) of the strap retainer 523 to connect the strap 522 to the strap retainer 523. In some implementations, the loop 525 is sewn, looped, adhered, or otherwise attached to secure the strap retainer 523 to the strap 522. In some implementations, the strap retainer 523 can be a fastener such as a buckle, a snap, a clip, or other fastener.

[0103] The opening 541 can be defined at the bottom layer 510 of the mattress 502, and the opening 541 can be configured to receive the strap retainer 523 to secure the strap 522 to the bottom layer 510 of the mattress 502. In some implementations, the strap retainer 523 can be inserted through the opening 541 and can be secured by rotating the strap retainer 523 (e.g. 90 degrees) so that a width of the strap retainer 523 cannot be pulled through the opening 541 while the strap retainer 523 is positioned adjacent to an internal side of the bottom layer 510 of the mattress 502 (see e.g., FIGS. 8A and 8B).

[0104] The clasp 526 is connected to the strap 522 at the opposite end of the strap 522 from the strap retainer 523. The clasp 526 includes a first slot 571 that connects to an end of the strap 522. In some implementations, the strap 522 loop is sewn, looped, adhered, or otherwise attached to secure the clasp 526 to the strap 522. The clasp 526 includes a hole 572 having a first portion 573 with a first portion diameter 574. The hole 572 includes a second portion 575 having a second portion diameter 576. The first portion diameter 574 is larger than the second portion diameter 576. In some embodiments, the first portion diameter 574 is larger than the button diameter 457 and the second portion diameter 576. In some embodiments, the second portion diameter 576 is smaller than the button diameter 457. The clasp 526 includes a second slot 571 at an end of the clasp 526 opposite the first slot 571 that connects to an end of a second strap 527. In some implementations, the second strap 527 loop is sewn, looped, adhered, or otherwise attached to secure the clasp 526 to the second strap 527.

[0105] In some embodiments, the clasp 526 connects to the button 425 to connect the mattress 502 to the foundation 404. The button 425 extends through the first portion 573 of the hole 572, and the clasp 526 is pulled such that the clasp moves 526 the button from the initial position in the first portion 573 of the hole into a connected position where the button 425 is in the second portion 575 of the hole 572. The smaller diameter of the second portion diameter 576 relative to the first portion diameter 574 and the button diameter 457 facilitates an interference fit between the button 425 and the clasp 526 (see e.g., connection between clasp 326 and button 325 in FIG. 3).

[0106] FIGS. 8A and 8B show an internal side 510a of the bottom layer 510 of the mattress 502 of FIG. 7 with the strap retainer 523 and a portion of the strap 522 inserted through the opening 541. The loop 525 can extend around a central bar 531 of the strap retainer 523. The opening 541 can be configured to receive the strap retainer 523 to secure the strap 522 to the bottom layer 510 of the mattress 502. In some implementations, the strap retainer 523 can be inserted through the opening 541 to the internal side 510a and can be secured by rotating (e.g., 90 degrees) the strap retainer 523 (see orientation of FIG. 8B) so that a width 533 of the strap retainer 523 is arranged about perpendicular to the opening 541 so that the strap retainer 523 cannot be pulled through the opening 541 while the strap retainer 523 is positioned adjacent to an internal side of the bottom layer 510 of the mattress 502. The width 533 of the strap retainer 523 can be equal to or small than a width 543 of the opening 541 so that the strap retainer 523 can be easily inserted through the opening 541. In some aspects, however, the width 533 of the strap retainer 523 is greater than the width 543 of the opening 541 so that the strap retainer 523 is interference-fit into the opening 541, or that either of the strap retainer 523 or the opening 541 flexes to the extent that the strap retainer 523 passes through the opening 541 before it flexes back to its original shape.

[0107] In some implementations, a reinforcement patch 550 can be connected to the internal side 510a of the bottom layer 510 of the mattress. The reinforcement patch 550 can reduce or minimize the amount of shear force exerted on the bottom layer 510 of the mattress, and can distribute the forces exerted on the bottom layer 510 around the opening 541 to reduce or prevent tearing and stretching of the bottom layer 510 around the opening 541. The reinforcement patch 550 has a patch opening 551 that is aligned with the opening 541 in the bottom layer 510 of the mattress 502. In some implementations, the reinforcement patch 550 is adhered to the internal side 510a of the bottom layer 510 of the mattress 502. In some implementations, the reinforcement patch 550 has a first relief cut 554 and a second relief cut 556 that facilitate the distribution and management of the forces and stresses at the reinforcement patch 550 by reducing the stress concentrations around the patch opening 551. The first relief cut 554 and the second relief cut 556 are spaced apart from the patch opening 551. The first relief cut 554 and the second relief cut 556 can be symmetric relative to the patch opening 551, and the first relief cut 554 and the second relief cut 556 can be elongated cuts that extend generally along the periphery of the reinforcement patch 550.

[0108] FIG. 9A is a top view of the reinforcement patch 550. The reinforcement patch 550 has the patch opening 551 (i.e., the main slot) that can be aligned with the opening 541 in the bottom layer 510 of the mattress 502. In some implementations, the reinforcement patch 550 is adhered to the internal side 510a of the bottom layer 510 of the mattress 502. The patch opening 551 includes a main slot 560 and first and second lateral slots 561, and 562 at each end of the main slot 560. The first and second lateral slots 561, and 562 can have widths 563, and 564 that are less than the width 565 of the main slot of the patch opening 551.

[0109] The reinforcement patch 550 can have the first relief cut 554 and the second relief cut 556. The first relief cut 554 and the second relief cut 556 can form arced shapes that extend between two rounded openings 554a, 554b, 556a, and 556b at the ends of each relief cut 554, 556. The first relief cut 554 and the second relief cut 556 facilitate the distribution and management of the forces and stresses at the reinforcement patch 550 by reducing the stress concentrations around the patch opening 551. The first relief cut 554 and the second relief cut 556 increase the effective stiffness of the reinforcement patch 550 around the patch opening 551. The increased effective stiffness of the reinforcement patch 550 reduces the amount the reinforcement patch 550 will deflect in response to bending forces applied to the reinforcement patch 550 (e.g., as a result of articulation of the foundation). The reduced deflection of the reinforcement patch 550 around the patch opening 551 reduces the amount of stress applied around the patch opening 551 (e.g., between the relief cuts 554, 556 and the patch opening 551). The areas of the reinforcement patch 550 outside of the relief cuts 554, 556 (e.g., between the relief cuts 554, 556) and the edges of the reinforcement patch 550 have a lower effective stiffness than the areas between the relief cuts 554, 556 and the patch opening 551. The areas outside of the relief cuts 554, 556 facilitate bending of the outer portions of the reinforcement patch 550 through a robust and predictable load path that is reduces stress concentrations.

[0110] FIG. 9B is a top view of another example reinforcement patch 950 that shares the features of reinforcement patch 550 except for the relief cuts.

[0111] Referring to FIGS. 4-9B, the straps 422 and the buttons 425 facilitate a connection between the mattress (e.g., mattress 302, 502) to the foundation 404. In some implementations, the strap 522 extends through reinforcement patch 550 and the openings in the patch and the bottom layer of the mattress (e.g., openings 541, 551). The strap retainer 523 is pulled into contact with the reinforcement patch 550 around the openings, and the strap retainer 523 can be pulled (e.g., tensile force) to engage (or be flush with) the reinforcement patch 550. The strap 522 can extend through the channel 432 and underneath the bar 430. The clasp 526 can connect to the button 425.

[0112] The strap 522 and clasp 526 can be passed through the channel 432 to connect to the connector assembly 424. For example, the strap 522 and clasp 526 can be inserted into the second section 436 and can extend between the recessed plate 431 and the bar 430 through the first section 434 of the channel 432. The clasp 526 can be connected to the button 425 with the strap 522 positioned in the channel 432 between the recessed plate 431 and the bar 430. The strap 522 can be connected to the connector assembly 424 and the bar 430 can facilitate a secure connection between clasp 526 and the button 425 by preventing the strap 522 from disconnecting forces or movement (e.g., upward or downward movement of the strap 522) at the connector.

[0113] The strap 522 connected to the connector assembly 424 (e.g., via the clasp 526 and the button 425) creates a tensile force that pulls against the strap retainer 523 to pull the mattress and secure the mattress 502 to the foundation 404. The tensile force created by the connection of the strap 522 to the connector assembly 424 can reduce or minimize a gap between the mattress and the foundation 404. The reduced and/or minimized gap can provide improved contouring of the mattress to the foundation 404 as the foundation 404 is articulated into various positions.

[0114] Referring to FIG. 10, some implementations of a foundation 1104 include connector assemblies 1124. The foundation 1104 and connector assemblies 1124 can share at least some features with the foundation 404 and connector assemblies 424. The head section 1114a of the foundation 1104 may include one set of two symmetrically positioned connectors 1127, the upper midsection 1114b of the foundation 1104 may include one set of two symmetrically positioned connector assemblies 1124, and/or the foot section 1114d may include a set of two symmetrically positioned connector assemblies 1124. In some cases, some of the articulable sections of the foundation 1104 may not include connector assemblies 1124 (e.g., the lower midsection 1114c). In some cases, any one section of the foundation 1104 can include one or more sets of connector assemblies 1124. In some cases, any one section of the foundation 1104 can include a single connector assembly or a set of connector assemblies, either symmetrically or asymmetrically positioned.

[0115] In FIG. 11, the connectors 1127 at the head section 1114a may be located near a central portion 1116 of the foundation 1104. The connector assemblies 1124 at the upper midsection 1114b may be located in a peripheral portion 1118 of the foundation 1104. The connector assemblies 1124 at the foot section 1114d may be positioned at peripheral portions 1118 of the foundation 1104. The connectors 1127 at the head section 1114a may be positioned along the inner edges 1129 and 1131 of the left head panel 1133 and right head panel 1135, respectively. In some cases, the pair of connectors 1127 at the head sections 1114a may be positioned closer to one another than the pair of connector assemblies 1124 at the upper midsection 1114b. Such a configuration may be desirable in an articulable bed system having separately articulable head sections, such as an articulable bed system that is split with two separately articulable mattresses or an articulable bed system with a split head section and a joined foot section. In some cases, the connector assemblies 1124 may be positioned on the foundation 1104 such that the connector assemblies 1124 can be easily accessed during assembly and/or disassembly of the bed system.

[0116] FIG. 12 shows a bottom view of an example mattress 1202 including six locations for attaching a strap 1222. The depicted mattress 1202 can be sized and shaped as any mattress size, for example, a king, a split-top king, a queen, a full, a twin, a twin XL sized mattress, or a custom-sized mattress. For example, the mattress 1202 can be a split-top king. The straps 1222 can be positioned at one or more locations along a bottom surface of the mattress 1202 such that straps 1222 interface with one or more connector assemblies (e.g., connector assemblies 1124 and connectors 1127) to secure the mattress 1202 to a foundation (e.g., foundation 304, 404, and 1104). In some implementations, the foundation 1104 and the mattress 1202 may be configured to be connected to each other by connecting the straps 1222 to the connector assemblies 1124 and the head straps 1227 to the connectors 1127. The depicted mattress 1202 can include four sections: a head section 1214a, an upper midsection 1214b, a lower midsection 1214c, and a foot section 1214d that can be configured to align with the head section 1114a, an upper midsection 1114b, a lower midsection 1114c, and a foot section 1114d of the foundation 1104.

[0117] In the depicted implementation of FIG. 12, the straps 1222 and head straps 1227 are shown in an uninstalled configuration with the straps 1222 and head straps 1227 not secured to the mattress 1202. The head straps 1227 can be longer than the straps 1222 and can be arranged from left to right while the straps 1222 can be arranged from head to foot. The head straps 1227 can be longer to wrap around the foundation 1104 to connect to the connectors 1127 (see, e.g., FIG. 12). The straps 1222 and/or head straps 1227 can include a strap retainer 1223 connected to a loop 1225 of the strap 1222 and/or head strap 1227 at an end opposite the clasp 1126. The clasps 1126 can share features with or be the same as the clasps 326, 526. The mattress 1202 can include openings 1241 and head openings 1249 in the bottom layer 1210 of the mattress 1202, and the openings 1241 and head openings 1249 are configured to receive the strap retainers 1223 to secure the straps 1222 and head straps 1227 to the bottom layer 1210 of the mattress 1202. For example, the strap retainer 1223 can be inserted through the openings 1241 and head openings 1249 and can be secured by rotating the strap retainer 1223 so that a width of the strap retainer 1223 cannot be pulled through the opening 1241 and head opening 1249 while the strap retainer 1223 is positioned adjacent to an internal side of the bottom layer 1210 of the mattress 1202 (see, e.g., FIGS. 8A and 8B).

[0118] In some cases, the mattress 1202 can accommodate any number of straps 1222 (e.g., two, three, four, five, six, eight, ten, twelve, fourteen, sixteen, eighteen, twenty, thirty, forty, fifty, or greater than fifty) and any number of head straps 1227 (e.g., two, three, four, five, six, eight, ten, twelve, fourteen, sixteen, eighteen, twenty, thirty, forty, fifty, or greater than fifty). In some cases, the straps 1222 can be positioned at locations symmetrically along the mattress 1202 to facilitate securement and alignment of the mattress to the foundation. In some cases, the head straps 1227 can be positioned at locations symmetrically along the mattress 1202 to facilitate securement and alignment of the mattress to the foundation. In some instances, the positions of the straps 1222 can be aligned with the connector assemblies (e.g., connector assemblies 1124) and the head straps 1227 can be aligned with the connectors 1127 to reduce or minimize the amount of shear force exerted on the mattress 1202, preventing misalignment, separation, or detachment of the mattress from the foundation. Alternatively, in some cases, the straps 1222 can be asymmetrically positioned along the bottom 1210 of the mattress 1202 to allow for easier movement and conformance of the mattress 1202 when the foundation is articulated. The depicted mattress 1202 can be compatible and couplable with a foundation mattress (see e.g., foundation 1104) having a complementary set of connector assemblies (e.g., connector assemblies 1124) and connectors (e.g., connectors 1127) attached along the surface of the foundation.

[0119] As shown in FIG. 11, the openings 1249 at the head section 1214a are located near a central portion 1216 of the mattress 1202. The head straps 1227 and head openings 1249 at the head section 1114a may be positioned along the inner edges 1229 and 1231 of the left head section 1233 and right head section 1235, respectively. In some cases, the pair of head openings 1249 at the head sections 1214a may be positioned closer to one another than the pair of openings 1241 at the upper midsection 1214b. The openings 1249 can be arranged perpendicular to the openings 1241 to facilitate the head straps 1227 being arranged from left to right, while straps 1222 are arranged from head to foot.

[0120] The upper midsection 1214b of the mattress 1202 includes one set of two symmetrically positioned openings 1241 and straps 1222, and the foot section 1214d includes a set of two symmetrically positioned openings 1241 and straps 1222. In some cases, some of the sections of the mattress 1202 may not include connector openings 1241 and straps 1222 (e.g., the lower midsection 1214c). In some cases, any one section of the mattress 1202 can include one or more sets of openings 1241 and straps 1222. In some cases, any one section of the mattress 1202 can include one opening 1241 and one strap 1222 or a set (e.g., two pairs, each pair including an opening 1241 and a strap 1222) of connector openings 1241 and straps 1222, either symmetrically or asymmetrically positioned.

[0121] The mattress 1202 can include a central portion 1216 that is positioned between peripheral portions 1218. The central portion 1216 can align with the central portion 1116 of the foundation 1102, and the peripheral portions 1218 can align with the peripheral portions 1118 of the foundation 1102. In the implementation depicted in FIG. 11, the head openings 1249 at the head section 1214a are located at the central portion 1216 of the mattress 1202. The openings 1241 at the upper midsection 1214b are located at peripheral portions 1218 of the mattress 1202. The openings 1241 at the foot section 1214d may be positioned at peripheral portions 1218 of the mattress 1202. The straps 1222 and openings 1241 and head straps 1227 and head openings 1249 can be positioned to align with and connect to the connector assemblies 1124 and connectors 1127 of the foundation 1104 to connect the mattress 1202 to the foundation 1104.

[0122] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a head end of an example bed system 1300 that includes the foundation 1104 and the mattress 1202 connected to each other. In the depicted implementation, the left head panel 1133 is articulated upwards while the right head section 1235 remains flat or unarticulated. The head strap 1227 can extend from the head opening (see, e.g., head opening 1249 in FIG. 11) inward towards the inner edges 1129, and 1229 and the head strap 1227 wraps around the inner edge 1129 of the foundation 1104 so the clasp 1226 extends over and interfaces with to the connector 1127 to connect the head strap 1227 to the left head panel 1133. The clasp 1226 and the connector 1127 can be a clasp and button connector similar to the clasp and button connector described with reference to clasp 326 and button 325, and clasp 526 connected to button 425. The head straps 1227 can pull each side (e.g., 1233, 1235 towards each other by pulling each side 1233, 1235 towards each respective inner edges 1129, 1229, 1131, and 1231.

[0123] FIG. 13 shows an example embodiment of a clasp 1326. The clasp 1326 shares features with clasps 326, 526, 1126 including the first slot 1371 that connects to an end of the strap (e.g., strap 322, 522). The clasp 1326 includes a hole 1372 that shares features with the hole 572, including the first portion 1373 and the second portion 1375 with respective portion diameters, where the second portion diameter is smaller than the first portion diameter. In some embodiments, the first portion diameter is larger than the button diameter (e.g., button diameter 457) and the second portion diameter. In some embodiments, the second portion diameter is smaller than the button diameter (e.g., button diameter 457). The clasp 1326 includes a clasp handle 1380 at an end of the clasp 1326 opposite the first slot 1371. In some embodiments, the clasp handle 1380 can replace a second slot of the clasp at an end opposite the first slot 1371. The handle 1380 can protrude from at least one surface of the clasp 1326 to facilitate a user's grip of the clasp 1326 while attaching or detaching the clasp 1326 from a button.

[0124] In some embodiments, the clasp 1326 connects to the button (e.g., button 425) in a similar manner to the clasp 526 to connect the mattress to the foundation. For example, the button 425 extends through the first portion 1373 of the hole 1372, and the clasp 1326 is pulled such that the clasp moves 1326 the button from the initial position in the first portion 1373 of the hole into a connected position where the button 425 is in the second portion 1375 of the hole 1372. The smaller diameter of the second portion diameter relative to the first portion diameter and the button diameter 457 facilitates an interference fit between the button 425 and the clasp 1326 (see e.g., connection between clasp 326 and button 325 in FIG. 3).

[0125] FIG. 14 shows an example embodiment of a clasp 1426. The clasp 1426 shares features with clasps 326, 526, 1126, 1326. For example, the clasp 1426 includes a first slot 1471, a hole 1472 having a first portion 1473 and a second portion 1475. Each of the first slot 1471, hole 1472, first portion 1473, and second portion 1475 can share features with the clasps 326, 526, 1126, and 1326 described herein. Additionally, the clasp 1426 includes a rounded end 1480 at an end opposite the first slot 1471. The rounded end 1480 facilitates a low profile of the clasp 1426.

[0126] FIG. 15A shows an example embodiment of a strap 1522. The strap 1522 shares features with straps 322, 522, 1122. In some embodiments, the strap includes a slit 1582 that extends through the strap 1522. The slit 1582 can be cut, punched, drilled, or otherwise formed through the strap 1522. For example, the slit 1582 can be cut through the strap 1522 using a hot knife. The slit 1582 can be various shapes and geometries, including a tear drop, a round opening, an elongated opening, an ovular opening, or other shapes. In the illustrated embodiment, the slit 1582 is a tear drop shaped opening oriented with a rounded end 1584 at a position nearest to the opposite end 1583 of the strap 1522. The slit 1582 also includes a tapering region 1585 that has angled walls that expand from an end of the slit 1583 into the rounded end 1584.

[0127] The slit 1582 can be positioned at or near an end of the strap 1522 opposite the strap retainer (e.g., strap retainer 523). The slit 1582 can be spaced apart from the opposing end 1583 of the strap 522. The distance between the opposing end 1583 of the strap 522 and the slit 1582 can facilitate a gripping area of the strap for a user to hold the strap 522 while attaching the strap 522 to the button (e.g., button 425) via the slit 1582. In some exemplary embodiments, the slit 1582 replaces the clasp at the end of the strap 522, and the slit 1582 facilitates a connection between the strap 522 and a button (e.g., button 425).

[0128] FIG. 15B illustrates the strap 1522 connected to the connector assembly 424 with a mattress (e.g., mattress 502) removed from view. In an attached configuration, the strap 1522 extends from the mattress (e.g., in the same or similar manner to the strap 522) to connect to the button 425. The strap 1522 extends under the bar 430 and through the channel 432 to connect the slit 1582 to the button 425. A width of the slit is less than the button diameter 457 so the outer flange 452 extends over the slit 1582 to securely attach the slit 1582 and the button together.

[0129] FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate another exemplary strap 1622 that shares at lease some features with the strap 1522. In some aspects, the strap 1622 includes a slit 1682 that includes a straight opening through the strap 1622. The slit 1682 operates in a similar manner to the slit 1582 described herein. For example, the slit 1682 facilitates a connection between the strap 1522 and a button (e.g., button 425). The slit 1682 can be cut, punched, drilled, or otherwise formed through the strap 1622. For example, the slit 1682 can be cut through the strap 1622 using a hot knife.

[0130] FIG. 16C illustrates exemplary slit reinforcements that can surround slits 1582, 1682. For example, a slit reinforcement can include lateral reinforcements 1690 that run along a lateral side of each slit 1582, 1682. In some examples, the lateral reinforcements 1690 can include reinforced stitching that runs along each lateral side of each slit. A slit reinforcement can include the lateral reinforcements 1691 and rounded end reinforcements 1691 that are positioned at both ends and connect to the lateral reinforcements 1691. A slit reinforcement can include the lateral reinforcements 1691 and a rounded end reinforcements 1691 positioned at one end of the reinforcement and a tear drop reinforcement 1692 at the opposing end. In some examples, the slit reinforcements can include reinforcement stitching that surrounds the slits.

[0131] Referring to FIGS. 17A-17D, an example connector assembly 1724 that includes a connection between the strap 1522 and a rotatable lever 1725. The connector assembly 1724 can share features with the connector assemblies 324, 424 described herein. For example, the connector assembly 1724 can include a bar 1730 and a channel 1732 that are similar to or the same as the bar 430 and channel 432. In some embodiments, the connector assembly 1724 includes a rotatable lever 1725 that facilitates a connection to the strap 1522. The rotatable lever 1725 connects to the connector assembly 1724 at a lever connection 1741 of the connector assembly 1724. The lever connection 1741 is shown in FIG. 17C, with the rotatable lever 1725 and the bar 1730 removed from view. The lever connection 1741 can be recessed into the connector assembly 1724 and can include one or more detents 1742 that interface with one or more grooves 1743 in a bottom surface 1750 of the rotatable lever 1725. The rotatable lever 1725 also includes an oblong lobe 1753 above the bottom surface 1750 that facilitates a connection to the slit 1582 of the strap 1522.

[0132] In some embodiments, the detents 1742 and the grooves 1743 facilitate a rotatable and lockable connection between the rotatable lever 1725 and the connector assembly 1724. For example, the rotatable lever 1725 can be in an initial position illustrated in FIG. 17A, where the rotatable lever is positioned to face a lateral side of the bed system (or optionally to face inwards towards a center of the bed system). The initial position of the rotatable lever 1725 facilitates an initial connection to the strap 1522 by extending the slit 1582 over the rotatable lever 1725.

[0133] The rotatable lever 1725 is subsequently rotated to a connected position illustrated in FIG. 17B. In the connected position, the rotatable lever 1725 is oriented to point towards a foot portion of the bed. The oblong lobe 1753 stretches the strap 1522 to cinch the strap 1522 tightly and generate additional tensile force against the strap 1522. The detents 1742 and grooves 1743 interface with each other to facilitate a stable connection in the connected position.

[0134] FIGS. 18A-18C illustrate another embodiment of the example connector assembly 1724 that includes a connection between the strap 1522 and a rotatable lever 1825. The connector assembly 1724 includes the rotatable lever 1825 that has a tapered geometry. The rotatable lever 1825 otherwise operates in a similar manner to the rotatable lever 1725.

[0135] A number of aspects/implementations of the inventions have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, in some implementations the straps 322, 522, and 1222, and connector assemblies 324, 424, 1124, and 1724 can include components of different sizes, shapes, and orientations. Additionally, different features of different implementations of one of the implementations the bed 112, mattresses 302, 502, and 1202, can be combined with other features of one or more other implementations of the foundation 304, 404, and 1104, as suitable for the application. Additionally, different features of different implementations of one of the implementations the foundation 304, 404, 1104, can be combined with other features of one or more other implementations of foundation 304, 404, 1104, as suitable for the application. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.