SYSTEM FOR TRANSFORMING A BED INTO A PLUSH TOY

Abstract

A system for transforming a bed into a plush toy includes first and second components forming the plush toy. The first component is a first portion of a plush toy configured to be removably mounted to a headboard of the bed. The second component is separate and independent from the first component and is a second portion of the plush toy configured to be removably mounted over a mattress of the bed. When respectively mounted to the headboard and mattress of the bed, the first and second portions combine to form the entire plush toy.

Claims

1. A system for transforming a bed into a plush toy, the system comprising: a first component configured as a first portion of a plush toy to be removably mounted to a headboard of the bed; and a second component separate and independent from the first component and configured as a second portion of the plush toy to be removably mounted over a mattress of the bed; wherein when respectively mounted to the headboard and mattress of the bed, the first and second portions combine to form the entire plush toy.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the first and second portions comprise a head portion and a body portion, respectively, of the plush toy.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the body portion is provided with limbs for the plush toy.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein each of the head portion and limbs of the body portion are provided with interior compartments for receiving therein a filler material to provide volume to the head portion and the limbs.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the filler material comprises a pillow.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the first component and portions of the second component have interior compartments for receiving a filler material to provide volume to the first compartment and the portions of the second compartment.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the second component comprises a primary cover configured to be removably mounted over the mattress and a secondary cover connected to and configured to be folded and unfolded about a folding line relative to the primary cover.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the secondary cover comprises at least one portion with an interior compartment configured to receive a filler material to provide volume to the at least one portion.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the at least one portion defines a limb of the plush toy.

10. The system of claim 8, wherein the at least one portion comprises a plurality of portions, each defining a limb of the plush toy.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein at least some of the limbs are configured for removable attachment to the secondary cover.

12. The system of claims 9, wherein the limb is configured for use as a body pillow.

13. The system of claim 7, wherein the first component forms a head of the plush toy and the primary and secondary covers of the second component form a body of the plush toy.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the head and body comprise interior compartments configured to receive therein a filler material for providing volume to the head and body.

15. The system of claim 1, wherein the first component comprises a plurality of straps for removably mounting the first component to the headboard of the bed.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the first component has an interior compartment configured for receiving therein a filler material for providing volume to the first component.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the filler material comprises a pillow.

18. The system of claim 1, wherein the second component comprises first and second covers forming a double-layer blanket.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the double-layer blanket comprises a plurality of removable portions serving as limbs for the plush toy.

20. The system of claim 19, wherein the plush toy formed by the first and second components is in the form of a life size or bigger than lifesize plush character.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0015] The disclosure will provide details in the following description of preferred embodiments with reference to the following figures wherein:

[0016] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a system formed for transforming a bed into a plush toy (hereinafter also referred to only as system), while in use, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the system, while not in use, according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] FIG. 3 is another perspective view of the system shown in FIG. 2.

[0019] FIG. 4 is a front view of a first component of the system.

[0020] FIG. 5 is a rear view of the first component shown in FIG. 4.

[0021] FIG. 6 is a front elevational view of a second component of the system illustrating a cover or blanket portion in a folded state.

[0022] FIG. 7 is a view like FIG. 6 but illustrating the cover or blanket portion in an unfolded state.

[0023] FIG. 8A is another front elevational view of the second component of the system illustrating details of portions forming the second component.

[0024] FIG. 8B is an enlarged view of a region A in FIG. 8A illustrating an embodiment of a mechanism for providing access to a compartment of the second component for inserting therein a filler material.

[0025] FIG. 9A is a rear perspective view illustrating the first component of the system with a first filler material inserted into a compartment of the first component and a second filler material positioned to be inserted into the compartment.

[0026] FIG. 9B is a front perspective view of the first component of the system illustrating the second filler material while being inserted into the compartment.

[0027] FIG. 9C is a view similar to FIG. 9A, illustrating the second filler material after it is inserted into the compartment.

[0028] FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a portion of the second component of the system illustrating a filler material positioned to be inserted into a compartment of the portion of the second component.

[0029] FIG. 10B is a perspective view similar to FIG. 10A, illustrating the filler material while being inserted into the portion of the second compartment.

[0030] In FIGS. 1-10B, the same reference numerals denote the same elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0031] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention as claimed. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the general description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. The figures are intended for representative purposes only and should not be considered limiting in any respect. Throughout the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same elements.

[0032] FIGS. 1-3 illustrate a system for transforming a bed into a plush toy (e.g., an animal character) according to an embodiment of a first aspect of the present invention. The system and bed are generally designated in the figures with reference numerals 100 and 300, respectively. FIG. 1 illustrates a configuration in which system 100 is assembled on bed 300 and while in use by an individual generally designated with reference numeral 200 (hereinafter also referred to as the user). FIGS. 2-3 illustrate system 300 assembled in bed 300 but not during use. In this embodiment, bed 300 comprises a mattress 310 and a pair of headboard frame portions 320 positioned at a forward end of bed 300.

[0033] As shown in FIGS. 1-3, system 100 is comprised of a first section or component 130 and a second section or component 160 configured to be arranged relative one another to form system 100. In the present embodiment, system 100 is configured for use with bed 300 for transforming bed 300 into a plush toy (hereinafter also referred to as plush). It is understood, however, that system 100 may be configured for use with structures other than beds, such as sofas, for converting such structures into a plush toy.

[0034] It will be appreciated from the disclosure of the present invention that system 100 is configured to transform bed 300 into a lifesize or bigger than lifesize plush character (e.g., a giant stuffed animal). In this embodiment, first component 130 is configured to form the head of the plush, and second component (e.g., in the form of a blanket as further described below) is configured to form the body of the plush. First and second components 130, 160 are configured to form the plush toy, for example, by filling various parts of the components with a suitable filler material, such as pillows, to give these components shape and volume.

[0035] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, in the present embodiment first component 130 comprises a cover with a compartment configured to be stuffed with a filler material, such as one or more pillows, padding and the like, to form three-dimensional object or character. First component 130 is configured with a silhouette and/or print representing a head 132 of the plush toy provided on a front side with eyes 132a, nose 132b, mouth 132c and ears 135. In this embodiment, head 132 is configured as the head of an animal with eyes 132a, nose 132b and mouth 132c, and ears 135. Two pairs of belts or straps 134 extend from a rear side 133 of head 132 for removably attaching head 132, and thus first component 130, to corresponding headboard frame portions 320 as shown in FIGS. 1-3. Frame portions 320 are provided with hook 137 and loop 139 fasteners (e.g., VELCRO), as shown in FIG. 5. First component 130 is removably affixed to bed 300 by wrapping straps 134 around respective frame portions 134 and securing respective straps 134 to another using hook and loop fasteners 137, 139, respectively. It is appreciated that other means for removably attaching first component 130 to bed 300 are suitable, such as buttons, cords, and the like, without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0036] Referring to FIGS. 9A-9C, head 132 of first component 130 is provided with an interior compartment 131 accessible from a lower end of head 132 via a zipper closure 138. Compartment 131 is configured to be filled with a filler or stuffing material. In this embodiment, the filler or stuffing material used is in the form of a pillow 500 and/or padding material 600. FIG. 9A illustrates padding material 600 already inserted inside compartment 131 and pillow 500 outside of compartment 131 and in the process of being inserted into compartment 131 as denoted by arrow C. FIG. 9B illustrates pillow 500 partially inserted into compartment 131. FIG. 9C illustrates pillow 500 completely inserted into compartment 131 with zipper closure 138 in an open state and ready to be closed to obtain the configuration of first component 130 shown in FIGS. 1-5. By this construction, first component 130 is configured to function as a pillow upon which user 200 can rest his/her head during use of system 100 as shown in FIG. 1.

[0037] It will be appreciated from the present disclosure that, as a feature of the present invention, first component 130 is formed by a cover (e.g., a pillowcase) with the silhouette of the character's head. This cover is previously provided with filler (e.g., padding material) 600 on the inner perimeter as shown in FIG. 9A, leaving the necessary, exact space for receiving pillow 500 and complete the space. By this construction, upon inserting pillow 500, the character's head will complete the necessary volume. This will allow the plush to be stored without the need to take up valuable space, as it will be folded without filling because the main volume will be provided by the pillow. As another feature of the present invention, straps 134 are configured to anchor component 130 around the headboard of bed 300, which will provide support and stability to the head. Additionally, the construction of component 130 is also configured to form and function as a headboard in certain applications, such as when used on a bunk bed since most bunk beds do not have a headboard. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-3, straps 134 wrap around the bedposts 320 of the bunk bed to anchor it.

[0038] Referring to FIGS. 2-3 and 6-7, second component 160 is configured to be assembled over mattress 310 of bed 300. In the present embodiment, second component 160 is in the form of a blanket comprising a primary cover 162 and a secondary cover 164 connected to primary component 160 along a connecting line 164c (FIG. 7. For example, the primary and secondary covers can be stitched together along connecting line 164c. By this construction, second component 160 provides a blanket formed of primary and secondary covers 130, 160 which are integrated with one another. Primary and secondary covers 130, 160 may be manufactured from a variety of fabric materials including cotton, wool and cotton-poly blends. However, more exotic fabrics such as silk may also be used in connection with the present invention. In the present embodiment, primary cover 162 has a generally rectangular-shaped configuration bounded by edges 162a-162c. It is appreciated, however, that primary cover 162 may be of a shape other than rectangular, such as square, circular, oval, etc., and of any size corresponding to the size of bed 300 with which system 100 is used.

[0039] Together, primary and secondary covers 162, 164 form and define a body corresponding to and complementing head 132 of first component 130 to form the plush toy as shown in FIGS. 2-3 Secondary cover 164 is configured to be folded and unfolded relative to primary cover 162 about connecting (hereinafter folding) line 164c. In the folded state, primary cover 162 and secondary cover 164 are configured to be removably connected together by a zipper closure 165 as shown in FIG. 3. FIGS. 1-3 and 6 illustrate secondary cover 164 folded over primary cover 162. FIG. 7 illustrates secondary cover 164 unfolded from primary cover 162. By this construction, and according to a feature of the present invention, secondary cover 164 functions as a blanket (e.g., a second layer of fabric) that allows users to cover themselves without having to undo bed 300. More specifically, when connected with zipper closure 165, the first and second covers 162, 164 form a pocket where the user can get inside to create the volume required to form the body of the plush toy.

[0040] Referring to FIG. 7, primary cover 162 is formed with imprints 160a, 160b, 160c representing body, leg and arm portions, respectively, of the plush toy. Leg portion 168 and/or arm portion 172 can also be formed as additional cover portions allowing the user to place their leg and arm therein to simulate that the plush top is moving. An upper end of body portion 164b is generally aligned with edge 162c of primary cover 162 to coincide with the region where head 132 of first component 130 is placed in preparation for and during use of system 100 (FIGS. 1-3). An upper edge of secondary cover 164 is also configured to be generally aligned with edge 162c of primary cover 162 and upper end of body portion 164b.

[0041] Secondary cover 164 is provided with portions 166, 170, 174 corresponding to leg, tail and arm portions, respectively, of the plush toy. Together with body, leg and arm portions 160a, 160b, 160c of primary cover 162, leg, tail and arm portions 166, 170, 174 of secondary cover 164 define the complete set of limbs for the animal character forming the plush toy. Limbs 166, 170, 174 are preferably in the form of covers provided with compartments into which a filler material, such as one or more pillows, padding and the like, is configured to be inserted to provide volume to the limbs, as shown in FIG. 1. For example, FIGS. 10A-10B illustrate filler materials associated with limb (arm) 174 of secondary cover 164. More specifically, FIG. 10A shows limb 174 with a zipper closure 175 in an open state and a pillow 400 in the process of being inserted into the compartment of limb 174 as denoted by arrow B. FIG. 10A also shows a padding 410 inserted inside the compartment of limb 174. FIG. 10B shows pillow 400 partially inserted into the compartment of limb 174. As an example of the present embodiment, padding 410 is previously inserted in the compartment of limb, leaving the necessary space for pillow 400 to be inserted to provide the necessary volume to complete the shape of the limb. Although not shown in the drawings, limbs 166 and 170 may similarly be configured with zipper closures providing access into respective compartments in these limbs to permit the introduction therein of a suitable filler material as described above. By the foregoing structural and functional configurations, it will be appreciated that when filled with filler materials as described above, the limbs of primary and/or secondary covers 162. 164 are suitable for use as body pillows.

[0042] In the embodiment of system 100 shown in FIGS. 2, 3, 6 and 7, limbs 166, 170, 174 are non-removably attached to secondary cover 164, for example by stitching or similar process. FIGS. 8A-8B show another embodiment in which the limbs of secondary cover 164 are removably attached to secondary cover 164. FIG. 8A illustrates limbs 170, 174 removed from secondary cover 164. Various means may be used to removably connect limbs 170, 174 to secondary cover 164. For example, limb 170 and secondary cover 164 may be connected using corresponding hook and loop fasteners (e.g., VELCRO) 140, 141, and limb 174 may be connected to secondary cover 164 using zipper closure components 167, 169. FIG. 8B is a close-up view A of zipper closure components 167, 169 in FIG. 8A. It will be appreciated that limbs 166, 170, 174 may be removably connected to secondary cover 164 using any or a combination of connecting means, such as hook and loop fasteners, and zipper closures, as well as buttons and the like without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0043] It will be further appreciated from the disclosure of the present invention that, as another feature of the present invention, second component 160, including covers 162, 164, is in the form of a blanket (e.g., made of a suitable fabric) that when in use as shown in the drawings will continue the head, with the blanket defining the character's body printed on it. Unlike regular blankets, the blanket corresponding to second component 160 has a double layer (e.g., layers 162, 164), where the layer 162 (second layer) is only the silhouette print of the character's body, forming a pocket on the layer 164 (e.g., first layer or main blanket) where the user (e.g., a child) can get in. The volume of the plush body is essentially filled by the user themselves. Stated otherwise, as a double-layer blanket, second component 160 allows the user to get into the pocket formed by the second layer of fabric located around the perimeter of the body, like a sleeping bag. As described above, layer 162 is provided with zipper closure 165 around the perimeter of the body silhouette to close the pocket or simply remain as a layer that opens and closes, leaving a neck area of the character's body open. This will allow the user to cover up while taking a nap inside the body of their favorite character without having to undo the bed during the day, for example. Furthermore, at night second component 160, as double-layer blanket, functions as a regular blanket for users to snuggle up in.

[0044] According to the present invention, to create the plush toy the head and limbs of first and second components 130, 160 are filled with filler or stuffing materials, such pillow and/or padding, which are preferably a soft and resilient materials to give it shape, volume, and a cuddly feel. The choice of stuffing material can vary depending on factors like cost, intended use, and safety regulations.

[0045] It will be appreciated that the first and second components 130, 160 of system 100 according to the present invention can be configured with various types of silhouettes and/or prints as desired to form various characters for the plush toys. The versatility in silhouette and prints allows for a wide range of character creation when designing the plush toy to form various characters, including animal characters. For example, different animals have distinct body shapes and proportions. By altering the silhouette of the plush toy body, the basic framework for various characters can be created. For example, a long and slender silhouette might be suitable for a snake or a ferret, while a rounder, more compact shape could be used for a bear or a rabbit. Silhouettes can also be adapted to represent different ages or moods of the same animal. For instance, a chubby, rounded silhouette might depict a baby animal, while a sleeker, more elongated shape could represent an adult version of the same species.

[0046] Various prints and patterns that play a significant role in character design may also be provided for system 100 of the present invention. They can be used to mimic fur, scales, feathers, or other distinctive features of animals. For example: a tiger plush might feature orange and black stripes on its body; a panda plush could have black patches around its eyes and ears, mimicking the panda's distinctive markings; and a giraffe plush might have a spotted pattern to imitate the giraffe's coat. Additionally, details such as embroidered eyes, noses, and mouths can be provided to system 100 to add personality and expression to the plush toys, further enhancing their character.

[0047] It will also be appreciated that accessories and additional features can be incorporated to the system 100 to reinforce the character's identity. For example: a lion plush might have a mane made of faux fur or fabric to distinguish it from other plush toys; animal-specific features like ears, tails, horns, or beaks can be attached to the plush toy to emphasize its species; and clothing or props can be added to further customize the character and give it a unique style or theme. For instance, a cowboy hat and bandana can be included to transform a horse plush into a rodeo rider.

[0048] System 100 according to the present invention offers several benefits, particularly in terms of versatility, functionality, and creativity.

[0049] By combining different silhouettes, prints, and details as described above, system 100 according to the present invention is capable of having virtually limitless options for creating diverse and engaging animal characters that appeal to a wide audience. Each character can have its own personality, backstory, and charm, making them beloved by children and adults alike.

[0050] As described above, secondary cover 164 functions as a blanket (e.g., a second layer of fabric) that allows users to cover themselves without having to undo bed 300. This is achieved by secondary cover 164 being attached to primary cover 160 so as to create a pocket or interior space where users can easily get inside to create the volume required to form the body of the plush toy or simply to wrap themselves comfortably. This design simplifies the process of using the bedding and enhances user experience.

[0051] Moreover, the suitability for use of the limbs of primary and/or secondary covers 162, 164 as body pillows when filled with filler materials, as described above, provide several benefits. The structural design of these covers is configured to provide a supportive yet soft surface, ideal for body support during rest or sleep. This can help alleviate pressure points and promote better spinal alignment, leading to improved comfort. Depending on the filler materials used, users may have the option to adjust the firmness of the body pillow to suit their preferences. This customization ensures that individuals can find the optimal level of support for their body type and sleeping position. By using the limbs of covers as body pillows, system 100 of the present invention allows for repurposing of existing materials, adding versatility to their functionality. This can be particularly advantageous in environments where space or resources are limited, as it eliminates the need for additional specialized pillows. Utilizing existing covers for body pillows can be a cost-effective solution compared to purchasing separate body pillows.

[0052] By integrating system 100 with a bed, users can easily transform their sleeping space into a playful and comforting environment. This dual functionality allows for the bed to serve its primary purpose while also providing an interactive and imaginative experience when desired.

[0053] The ability to transform bed 300 into a plush toy, such as an animal character, enhances the interactive play experience for individuals, especially children. This feature encourages creativity, imagination, and storytelling as users engage with their transformed bed.

[0054] Plush toys are often associated with comfort and coziness, providing a sense of security and companionship, particularly for young children. By incorporating plush elements into the bed design, system 100 enhances the overall comfort level, making bedtime a more enjoyable experience.

[0055] System 100 allows for customization and personalization, as users can choose from a variety of plush toy designs to suit their preferences and interests. This flexibility enables individuals to express their unique personalities and create a sleep environment that reflects their individual style.

[0056] Moreover, the presence of a plush toy bed encourages engagement and entertainment, whether through imaginative play during waking hours or comforting companionship during sleep. This feature can help alleviate bedtime-related anxieties and promote a sense of relaxation and security.

[0057] The integration of the plush toy system with the bed ensures a space-saving design, eliminating the need for additional storage or floor space typically required for standalone plush toys. This efficient use of space is especially beneficial for smaller bedrooms or shared living spaces. System 100 of the present invention is notable for its compact packaging and small volume, akin to that of a regular blanket, as the volume is created by inserting the pillows. System 100 is particularly configured for easy storage in small size blanket bag.

[0058] Overall, system 100 according to the present invention offers a delightful blend of functionality and creativity, transforming the traditional bed into a multi-purpose piece of furniture that inspires imagination, promotes comfort, and enhances the overall sleep experience. Furthermore, system 100 is particularly configured to transform a bed into a giant plush toy (e.g., a giant stuffed animal), capitalizing on their current popularity. Moreover, while giant plush toys are highly sought after for their emotional benefits, their large size can be impractical. With system 100 according to the present invention, users can enjoy all the benefits of a giant plush toy without sacrificing space, as it conveniently folds down to the size of a regular blanket when stored. More specifically, system 100 allows one to have a giant plush toy on one's bed to sleep in, and when the filler or stuffing material (e.g., pillows) are removed, system 100 is configured to be transformed into a compact size for storage.

[0059] Reference in the specification to one embodiment or an embodiment of the present invention, as well as other variations thereof, means that a particular feature, structure, characteristic, and so forth described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearances of the phrase in one embodiment or in an embodiment, as well any other variations, appearing in various places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. However, it is to be appreciated that features of one or more embodiments can be combined given the teachings of the present invention provided herein.

[0060] The foregoing is to be understood as being in every respect illustrative and exemplary, but not restrictive, and the scope of the invention disclosed herein is not to be determined from the Detailed Description, but rather from the claims as interpreted according to the full breadth permitted by the patent laws. It is to be understood that the embodiments shown and described herein are only illustrative of the present invention and that those skilled in the art may implement various modifications without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Those skilled in the art could implement various other feature combinations without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Having thus described aspects of the invention, with the details and particularity required by the patent laws, what is claimed and desired protected by Letters Patent is set forth in the appended claims.