WO2005120295A1

WO2005120295A1 - Environmentally conditioned furniture

Info

Publication number: WO2005120295A1
Application number: PCT/GB2005/002347
Authority: WO
Inventors: John Statham
Original assignee: John Statham
Priority date: 2004-06-11
Filing date: 2005-06-13
Publication date: 2005-12-22
Also published as: EP1804616A1; ATE544373T1; EP1804616B1; GB0412998D0

Abstract

Environmentally conditioned furniture, such as a bed (10), has a permeable mattress (12) or cushion set upon a plenum chamber base (11), with ventilator fan (13), distribution duct (65) and heater (64), co-operatively disposed to intake ambient air and expel conditioned chamber air through the mattress (12) under temperature and so relative humidity control, for comfort and/or respiratory benefit of a bed occupant; a particular construction employs a shallow unitary moulded tray as a plenum module (135) between mattress and base frame, with self contained conditioner unit (140).

Description

Environmentally Conditioned Furniture

This invention relates to conditioning, and is particularly, but not exclusively, concerned with environmental conditioning.

Environment could be, say, an overall room volume, or local to a particular person or object.

Ancillary environmental conditioning of a room by primary local conditioning of an object is addressed.

A prime focus is ventilation of furniture, in particular upholstered furniture such as beds and bed mattress cushions. Terminology

Furniture - Upholstered - Bed

The term 'bed' is used herein for convenience to embrace a diversity of furniture - such as beds, chairs, sofas and chaise longues.

Soft covered or upholstered furniture with a mattress, cushion or bolster user interface can trap dust, dust mites and other allergens.

Tackling the problem at source - by conditioning upholstery - is thus an advantageous tactic.

Carpets and wall hangings (drapes and curtains), which are also dust traps, can be addressed as a secondary effect of furniture conditioning. Conditioning

The generalised term 'conditioning' reflects determination of certain contributory environmental state factors, including:

• ventilation (air mobility or through-flow);

• temperature; • (absolute or relative) humidity (moisture or water vapour content);

• airborne particulate (dust) filtration;

• aroma;

• oxygen and carbon dioxide content.

Conditioning may be tailored to balance or give priority to factors for a lead purpose. Conditioning for respiratory health is a concern.

A growing proportion of the population suffers from respiratory complaints such as asthma and allergic reactions - now prevalent in young persons. Localised filtration is more feasible and economic and can feature in furniture occupied by a sufferer.

Temperature

In practice, temperature regulation is more concerned with temperature elevation or heating (rather than cooling or refrigeration).

Temperature increase reduces relative humidity levels, found critical to dust mite survival, as discussed later.

Air Drying

Prolonged exposure to overly dry air may cause skin and hair dryness. Sore throats, and respiratory tract infections are a concern.

Thus it is desirable to monitor humidity levels, when making temperature changes.

Ventilation - (Air) Through-Flow

Ventilation, air through-flow, or rate of air change, allows supply of fresh, temperature and/or humidity conditioned air - with concomitant exhaust displacement of 'stale' air, high in carbon dioxide and low in oxygen and high in moisture.

More specifically:

• Inhaled air typically contains 20% oxygen, whereas exhaled air contains some 14- 16% oxygen.

• Similarly, preferred carbon dioxide intake levels are some 0.1 %, with a maximum of 0.5% - whereas exhaled air contains approximately 4%.

• Exhaled air is far hotter and moister - some 37degrees C and 100% relative humidity - than desirable for inhalation.

• An individual inhales some 0.5 cubic metres of fresh air per hour.

• 5m3 of ventilation is therefore required in order to achieve a dilution of CO₂ to 0.4% (i.e. 4% / 10).

Fan Noise

Creating an adequate flow without undue fan noise - which might itself disturb sleep - is also a concern.

Air Conditioning Prime considerations are ambient temperature and moisture content or (relative) humidity. Peripheral considerations - such as of ionisation, electrical charge or static may also be addressed.

Physiology - Comfort / Hygiene

Physiological comfort - and hygiene considerations (such as bacteriological growth in perspiration) - dictate a certain preferred state value range or band.

Conditioning upholstered furniture, in particular a bed, or rather bed mattress, by temperature and humidity control, counters the adverse influence or effect of body heat and perspiration.

Medical - Therapeutic Medically, air condition, primarily temperature and humidity, impacts upon microorganisms, microbes and household pests such as dust mites and fleas.

These affect respiration, respiratory tract and lung diseases or allergies, such as asthma or hay fever.

It has been found that a relative humidity (actual vs capacity moisture content at a given temperature) of some 50% or less suppresses dust mite activity, breeding and survival.

It is envisaged that asthma suffers would benefit, not merely from an overnight sleeping session upon a conditioned bed according to the invention, but long term carry-over resistance, or reduced susceptibility. Ventilated Upholstery

Thus, it would be desirable to ventilate - if not air condition - upholstery, both to impact upon internal conditions and as a user contact medium or interface.

Ventilation by forced air flow (rather than say natural convection) involves local 'over' (positive) or 'under' (negative) pressure differential, ie blowing or suction. Conventional Cushion - Mattress

A conventional cushion or mattress can be conditioned - at lower conversion cost.

Mattress cover or lining permeability is a consideration for ventilated through-flow.

Bespoke Cushion - Mattress

Bespoke upholstery can admit of more controlled through-flow and efficient conditioning.

Prior Art

Bed ventilation has been proposed in JP9140506, but not overall mattress conditioning.

Mattress Permeability

Permeable mattresses are also known - such as the proprietary infant crib mattress from Halo Innovations - but these can prove over-elaborate, with integrated fans hazardous to vulnerable occupants.

WO 01/84082 / PCT/US01/02977 Halo explores ventilated mattress construction in conjunction with an underlying plenum and diversity of conditioning.

A vision of air conditioned air flow though furniture is embodied in a ventilated bedding mattress. C02 re-breathing with infant bedding is a concern.

Filtration of aeroallergens is envisaged, such as with sophisticated electrostatic filter media.

US 3,266.064 Figman is an earlier proposal for a ventilated box-spring mattress sitting upon a sprung base carcass. Within the base is set an impeller fan housing, remote side wall intake filter.

Base interior space is surmounted by a metal screen or porous foam layer interface for a foam mattress.

A special-purpose mattress features top-to-bottom air flow discharge passageways sitting within a peripheral bed base frame upstand rim. Figman reflects a bespoke or dedicated bed construction - dictating OEM, but not adaptation or conversion of an existing bed.

Bed occupant temperature is a prime consideration, rather than an anti-allergenic or asthmatic resolution by high performance filtration.

Mattress - Fluid Cell Aside from conventional (mechanical) springing, fluids - embracing gas or liquid media

- have been employed in specialist mattress cushions.

Thus, air beds are known as inflatable flotation devices and for ad hoc general camping.

Water beds are known for sensory, massage, relaxation and therapeutic purposes. Recent mattress developments integrate mechanical and fluid cushion action, thus:

• US 2002/0144342 Fruge features a combined inner-spring and air bladder construction in the context of a folding / collapsible sofa bed; and • US 2002/0184712 Gladney employs a one-sided mattress upon a rigid foundation - specifically a core of individually pocketed coil springs sandwiched between a resiliently compressible covering and a substantially rigid base - reducing overall mattress deflection in use. A fluid admits of differential and varied (inflation) pressure and thus cushion resilient deformability.

Fluid interchange between internal passages or cells can also engender a damping action.

Mechanical springing is relatively inflexible, without elaborate mounting provision. Various sophisticated, eg visco-elastic and differential ('polymodal') foam mattress and pillow constructions have been proposed, such as in; www.dormia.com, www.tempurworld.com, www.the-pillow.com.au/pdf/memory_foam.pdf, and by Magniflex of Italy.

WO 00/04809 (Jager) uses mattress air cells, but does not consider the dynamics of inflation, integration facility in bed construction, nor continuous bleed or leakage through flow.

Implementation The practicalities of implementation of bed ventilation pose challenges in construction and operation, for either OEM or conversion of a conventional bed.

The Applicant envisages a construction suitable for mass production.

Statement(s) of Invention

Environmentally Conditioned Furniture {Ventilated Bed Mattress}

According to one aspect of the invention, environmentally conditioned furniture, such as a bed, comprises a plenum chamber, as a reservoir for air conditioned by communication with a conditioner unit, for onward transfer through an overflying mattress, (sprung) cushion, or upholstered seat. Conditioned air emerges from the mattress to the surroundings - and impacts upon a bed occupant.

In practice, conditioning includes temperature and/or humidity

An otherwise conventional mattress can be conditioned from a pre-charged plenum reservoir. A bespoke mattress could facilitate air through flow, without exposing an occupant to draft.

Integrated or remote conditioning may be employed.

Environmentally conditioned furniture, such as a bed (10), comprising a base or support frame (11 ), a plenum chamber (19), supported by the base, and communicating with a conditioner unit (13) for the supply of conditioned air to the plenum and thence to a mattress, cushion, or upholstery overlaid upon the plenum.

In a particular construction, a unitary plenum chamber moulding is bounded by a peripheral wall upstand with a perimeter edge flange for sealing contact with an overlaid mattress.

A perimeter ledge or rim could serve for mattress location or retention.

A plenum wall of stepped profile could provide opposed supporting ledges for an overlaid mattress and allowing air flow between plenum and mattress. Spaced transverse bridging elements, such as slats, could span between opposite sides, for overlaid mattress support over the plenum chamber.

A moulded plenum tray floor could feature an integral mounting recess for a conditioner unit, and aperture for air intake. A discrete plenum chamber module could be configured as a shallow depth or slimline profile tray.

Duct

Ducting, trunking or conduit can be installed within or alongside the plenum to direct internal air circulation. That is a rigid duct or flexible umbilical could interconnect plenum chamber and conditioner unit.

In an integrated configuration, an air conditioner unit is fitted within a plenum chamber, and incorporates a forced air flow generator, to draw external air into and displace conditioned air from the plenum. This creates internal circulation, while temperature and/or humidity conditioning air for in the plenum beneath the mattress and which progressively permeates, and thereby conditions, the mattress. A compact bed format can thus be achieved - ie no overall size increase or awkward profile attends the additional conditioning feature.

Filters

Filters for airborne particulate contaminants, such as dust and pollen, are desirably incorporated in an air flow duct, or at inlets or outlets.

The filters are desirably removable for replacement or cleaning.

In practice, filtration down to particles of 0.3 microns is envisaged, representing removal of some 99.87% of all airborne particles.

Operationally, High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters may be disposed in tandem for cumulative progressive effect.

Plenum

The plenum chamber is continually re-charged with 'fresh' - and filtered - air drawn from the immediate environment or some external source.

Volumetrically, the plenum is sufficiently large to create a stable, consistent air mass from air intake to exhaust through the overlying mattress.

Underside Bleed

Plenum capacity could be sufficient to allow a modest underside bleed or discharge of air to a support floor.

This reduces dust and debris accumulation and inhibits mould or other undesirable organic growth.

Room Ventilation

The localised flow - typically some 50 cubic metres per hour - engendered by bed ventilation creates a general filtered room recirculation.

Bed Airing The ventilation embraces bed clothes and covers without the need for turning back from a mattress.

Demonstrated Capability

A capability of removing some 0.25 litres of water per hour from an otherwise damp bed, in conditions of some 18 degrees C and 50% relative humidity have been demonstrated in trials. Sterilisation

An elevated temperature sterilisation cycle may be imposed - when the bed is unoccupied - significantly to reduce relative humidity and destroy dust mites.

Thus, for example, a temperature of some 60 degrees C may be applied for some four hours.

A bed cover may be fitted to reduce exhaust from the bed mattress and covers and promote such a hot, dry temporary environment.

Plenum

In a particular construction, a plenum is configured as dual interfitting hollow shells. Thus, a (say, glass-fibre) moulded outer bath shell, with an upstanding peripheral rim locates an overlying mattress.

An (again, say glass-fibre) moulded inner shell is disposed as a central longitudinal rib, up-turned as a mattress support spine.

This support spine is sub-divided by a wall into at one minor end portion a fan chamber and over a remaining major portion an air distribution duct, with a heater and air re- circulation vents.

Vents are disposed to exchange air between an air intake in the fan chamber and internal plenum regions at opposite duct sides.

Slim Profile Plenum A shallow depth or slim profile plenum module is envisaged for minimal intrusion into a bed base.

A self-contained conditioner supply unit could fit within a recess in the plenum base.

Intake

Intake or ingest of ambient air is through a filter from outside (say, below or to one side of) the plenum, or from within the plenum itself in a recycle mode.

Discharge

Discharge of conditioned air would be indirectly into the plenum chamber from which it would permeate in upward flow an overlying mattress.

Slats A series of transverse slats could span a plenum open upper delivery face to support an overlying mattress, but leaving intervening air flow passages.

Slats could sit upon opposed shelf lands formed in a moulded plenum chamber wall profile.

Location recesses could feature to inhibit slat displacement upon bed occupant movement.

Movable Lid The plenum could be configured as a (re-) movable lid to an underlying bed base frame or carcass.

Seal

Peripheral sealing would be operative between plenum and mattress to reduce leakage of conditioned air before mattress passage. Multiple Plenum

To assist conditioning action, multiple - specifically dual - plenum chambers are conveniently employed.

This would be appropriate for wide bed formats such as double divans or larger.

Localised Conditioning Individual plenums could address localised mattress areas, to allow personalised occupancy conditioning in a double bed format.

Similarly, occupant head, trunk and feet could be exposed to differentially conditioned air, according to personal preference.

Tandem Plenum These are desirably connected in tandem, with a preceding plenum priming a succeeding plenum, allowing progressive incremental conditioning.

In practice the plenum is conveniently located within a bed base supporting an overlying mattress.

Thus, in a particular bed construction, a lattice frame or grid (mattress) support overlies a plenum chamber and in turn is supported by a peripheral base frame.

Conditioned air emerging from the mattress represents a favourable breathing environment for a person lying thereupon, either with or without an intervening pillow or bed linen.

Any bed clothes or pillow are also 'immersed' in the conditioned immediate environment.

A secondary effect is progressive conditioning of ambient bedroom environmental air.

The conditioner may thus be left operating continuously - ie not merely at night or upon bed occupation.

The bed is thus continuously aired - without having to be left unmade.

Automation

Monitoring sensors and regulatory controls, such as for temperature, humidity and air intake and exhaust flows may be fitted to allow automated operation.

Personal adjustment provision through manual controls - conveniently with a remote (say coded radio or infra red) signal link may be employed.

Permeable Cushion / Mattress

According to another aspect of the invention, a permeable cushion or mattress construction employs a lattice or matrix of cells, with permeable sub-dividing walls interspersed with impermeable elements to direct internal air flow and egress.

According to a further aspect of the invention, a plurality of discrete mattress modules are combined to achieve a desired collective overall mattress shape and size.

Floor & Wall The principle of a plenum chamber overlaid by a permeable membrane may be adopted for a floor or wall mounted unit, with attendant carpet or drape.

Compact, even miniaturised, conditioning modular units may be fitted to individual upholstered furniture items, such as chairs or sofas.

Diffuser - Distribution A diffusion layer or moderator baffle may be interposed between mattress and plenum chamber to distribute air flow evenly and dampen the shock of changed flow conditions.

Plenum - Interface - Mattress

A plenum chamber could be regarded as a master accumulator, reservoir or (heat) sink of conditioned air - with one or more local interface or buffer units providing mutually- isolated bespoke flows to a remote mattress cushion portion.

Bespoke Mattress (Cushion)

Bespoke mattress construction for air conditioning could be contrived (as illustrated in Figure 14). Thus, conventional mattress construction is primarily concerned with resiliently deformable cushion comfort - breathing being a secondary consideration.

Accordingly, it may take some time to affect overall internal mattress condition and to change it. Thermal mass is a consideration, and so a dense, bulky core or surface wadding layers, such as to provide firm cushion action, may impede 'breathing'.

Moreover, there is a limit upon through-flow rate capacity.

A bespoke mattress allows greater consideration of, and adaptation to accommodate and promote, air through flow - whilst preserving comfort.

Cushion action of a conventional mattress typically involves internal (coil) springs, which may be located within individual pockets to preserve independence of action and avoid direct mutual contact.

Some mechanical contact noise typically accompanies such a coil spring mattress. A spring mesh lattice may also be used to obviate local spring distortion and preserve an even surface.

Such mechanical springing is used in conjunction with resiliently deformable material such as foam.

Unless of high density, foam can readily crush and close otherwise open foam cells or pores to inhibit breathing or air interchange between inside and out.

A solid foam cushion overlay upon a sprung base is also typically of wider upholstered or soft furniture construction, such as chairs or sofas.

Air Suspension

Air flow allows an element of air suspension - given sufficient flow rate - to supplement or substitute for some part, or all of a mechanical (coil) spring.

Suspension (Cushion) Modules

Multiple clustered suspension modules, such as individually pocketed springs, could be contrived. These would be continually (re-)charged with pressurised conditioned air - allowing progressive leakage or bleed through a porous outer membrane or lining to a bed occupant.

Damper

Air exchanger allows a damper, baffle, or nominal shock absorber, function to suppress undue bounce of mechanical spring elements.

Forced Ventilation

A bed ventilation capacity of up to 100 cubic metres of air per hour is desirable. Flow Variation

Variable, for example periodic pulsating, air flows could promote air exchange - break up stagnant air pockets - and provided a relaxing, soporific therapeutic sensation.

Random or programmable flow patterns could be imposed, with independent flow strength adjustment.

Thus, a loose parallel might be drawn with an air version of a water Jacuzzi - in which submerged pulsating water jets are introduced into, or embedded within, a water bath.

Aroma Selected aromas could be introduced into the conditioned air to effect aromatherapy.

Dosage control could be adjusted automatically with air flow - and again preprogrammed.

Conventional vs Bespoke Bed (Mattress)

Broadly, conditioning may be undertaken of an otherwise conventional bed - in particular:

• a conventional bed mattress; or

• a bespoke bed; or

• some combination of bespoke bed (base) and conventional mattress; with conditioner adapted accordingly. Embodiments

There now follows a description of some particular embodiments of ventilated beds according to the invention, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying diagrammatic and schematic drawings, in which:

Figures 1 A and 1 B show perspective views of an air conditioned (divan style) bed; More specifically:

Figure 1 A shows a permeable (conventional) cushion mattress upon a hollow base, with a perimeter side and end wall upstand bounding an enclosed plenum chamber - serving as a repository of conditioned air to permeate an overlying mattress;

Figure 1 B shows a part-translucent view of Figure 1 A, with the mattress depicted in outline to reveal a slatted support platform, through which conditioned air can pass from plenum chamber to mattress;

Figure 2 shows a part-sectioned view of one end of the bed of Figures 1A and 1 B, where an air conditioner unit is interposed between a side or end wall vent and an internal plenum chamber;

Figures 3A and 3B show an air conditioned bed with two stage air conditioning through dual base unit plenum chambers and internal distribution duct; More specifically:

Figure 3A shows an exploded view of an air conditioned bed with a pre-conditioner plenum chamber configured to feed a secondary plenum with a re-circulatory air heater ducting;

Figure 3B shows section X-X of Figure 3A, illustrating air flow through the bed base; Figures 4A through 4C show variant bespoke permeable mattress constructions;

More specifically:

Figure 4A shows an external perspective view of a (conventional) permeable cushion mattress, with optional provision for conduit feed;

Figure 4B shows an exploded view of a bespoke multi-layer permeable mattress construction, with a perforated foam diffuser underlayer juxta-posed with an inner sprung cushion;

Figure 4C shows a variant of Figure 4B with discrete conditioner outlets for localised area control;

Figures 5A and 5B show a ventilated / air conditioned bed variant with (multiple discrete) modular support cells, under a common (conventional or bespoke) mattress overlay and upon a common base;

More specifically:

Figure 5A shows a sectional view of part of a bed with a master conditioner base unit connected by umbilical feed hoses to discrete individual mattress support cells; Figure 5B shows a variant of Figure 5A, with a direct port between a common base plenum chamber and localised mattress support cells; and optional localised heat exchanger elements, such as heater of refrigeration cooling coils;

Figures 6A and 6B show a segmented cellular cushion bed base configuration;

More specifically: Figure 6A shows a perspective outer view of a bed base with multiple segmented support cells, allowing differential flow and air conditioning, respectively for bed occupant head, trunk and feet regions;

Figure 6B shows a part-exploded view of a variant of Figure 6A, with clustered support cells, under a unitary sheet overlay; Figures 7A and 7B show a multi-cell cushion base bed with a unitary mattress overlay;

More specifically:

Figure 7A shows a part-exploded view of a mattress and cushion base;

Figure 7B shows a sectional view of an individual base cushion cell, with peripheral bracing or stiffener cells bounding an intervening core;

Figures 8A and 8B show variant modular mattress cell, and/or cushion base, configurations;

More specifically:

Figure 8A shows uniform cells with bounding bracing or stiffening corner pillars and cris-cross web restraints, allowing differential bed occupant (head-trunk-feet) body conditioning;

Figure 8B shows profiled inter-nesting cushion cells;

Figures 9A through 9C show variant mattress cushion configurations;

More specifically; Figure 9A shows multiple discrete cushion cells within a common (porous) cover sheet;

Figure 9B shows multiple cushion cells within a lattice mesh containment or restraint;

Figure 9C shows scalloped profile mattress elements configured for individual occupants disposed side by side in a double-bed arrangement; Figures 10A through 10C show alternative conditioned air feed arrangements;

More specifically;

Figure 10A shows 'plumbed-in' bed installation, with conditioned air fed from a remote conditioner;

Figure 10B shows a movable bed with umbilical hose or tube feed pipe from a remote conditioner;

Figure 10C shows an auxiliary air conditioner unit, configured as a bedside cabinet, feeding directly into a bed base;

Figures 11 A through 1 1 C show a modular base configuration, allowing assembly of different size or shape bed bases; More specifically;

Figure 11 A shows a master base module with integral air conditioner;

Figure 11 B shows a passive base module juxtaposed with the active conditioner module of Figure 11 A; Figure 11 C shows a pair of passive base modules of Figure 11 B with an intervening active conditioner module of Figure 11 A;

Figures 12A and 12B show alternative air conditioned bed configurations;

More specifically;

Figure 12A shows an air conditioned bed, retract- foldable into a wall, or built-in wardrobe, recess;

Figure 12B shows a conditioned convertible sofa bed.

Figures 13A and 13B show a (single divan) variant bed base construction of twin internesting moulded fibreglass shells;

More specifically: Figure 13A shows an upper plan view, with mattress removed to expose a bed base with an outer shell to the full footprint and an inner shell configured as a central longitudinal 'services' spine trunking for ventilation fan and air ducting;

Figure 13B shows a sectional side-elevation of the bed base of Figure 13A with an overlying mattress located in a peripheral rim upstand of the outer shell; and supported mid-span by the spine trunk;

Figure 14 shows a bespoke mattress construction for an air conditioned bed according to the present invention.

Figure 15 shows a 3-D perspective view of a (single) (divan) bed base with ventilation provision through an integrated plenum chamber and on board conditioner unit, to interface with an overlying mattress (omitted for clarity);

Figures 16A and 16B show an opened out view of the bed base and (self-) ventilation facility of Figure 15, with detail of a heater, fan and filter unit;

More specifically ..

Figure 16A shows a ventilation module hinged at one end to a bed base, to allow lift up for access;

Figure 16B shows conditioner unit local enlargement detail, with fan, heater and control module for drawing air through an intake filter, shown separated in local exploded view detail in Figure 16A; Figures 17 and 17B show a variant of Figures 16A and 16B, with removable (lift out) conditioner unit accessible from within a plenum chamber;

More specifically ...

Figure 17A shows a perspective upper view of a bed base with plenum module installed, but mattress support slats removed, to allow access to a conditioner module itself partly lifted for removal;

Figure 17B shows an enlarged perspective exploded view of a conditioner unit of Figure 17A;

Figures 18A and 18B show wholesale plenum module and individual slat removability of a plenum module and minimal bed base frame variant;

More specifically ...

Figure 18A shows a bed base with separated, but juxtaposed, plenum module, complete with mattress support slats and conditioner unit;

Figure 18B shows individual slat removal in an otherwise complete bed base and installed plenum module with conditioner unit;

Figures 19A and 19B show a single divan bed with ventilation provision;

More specifically ...

Figure 19A shows a 3-D perspective view of an assembled single divan bed

Figure 19B shows a transverse section along the line AA' in Figure 19A; Figures 20A through 20D shows a double, king or queen divan with ventilation provision;

More specifically ...

Figure 20A shows a 3-D perspective view of an assembled bed, with split base option;

Figure 20B shows a transverse sectional along line BB' in Figure 20, of a ventilation installation with a single, full-span, plenum module and attendant uprated individual conditioning unit;

Figure 20C shows a transverse section along line BB' in Figure 20, of a variant ventilation installation to Figure 20B, using twin plenum modules and respective conditioner units, set side by side; Figure 20D shows an exploded view of the construction of Figure 20C - more clearly to reveal individual components;

Figures 21 A through 21 C show unitary or split base variants of a super king size double divan bed, with ventilation provision through twin plenum modules; More specifically ...

Figure 21 A shows a perspective view of an assembled super king size bed - with broken lines indicating option for mattress and base sub-division.

Figure 21 B shows a transverse section along line CC in Figure 21 A, with conjoined individual divan bases for respective abutting single mattresses - for differentiated mattress conditioning;

Figure 21 C shows a transverse section along line CC in Figure 21 A of an alternative base configuration to that of Figure 21 B - with twin juxtaposed plenum modules overlaid by a unitary double mattress;

Referring to the drawings ..

Figures 1 A/B and 2 represent a generalised bed format, whereas Figures 3A/B depict a particular plenum chamber base construction.

Similarly, Figures 4A through 12B represent generalised optional refinements to bed base, mattress, and conditioner. A ventilated - air (temperature) conditioned - bed 10 has a base unit 11 , an internal plenum chamber 19, with an overlying lattice frame or platform grid 14, supporting a permeable mattress 12.

A conventional 'closed' mattress can be conditioned, but a bespoke 'open' or permeable mattress 12 construction, such as depicted in Figures 4A through 4C, can bolster breathing performance and/or ease demands upon a conditioner unit.

As depicted in Figure 2, the base unit 11 is a hollow shell or carcass, with a upstand of generally upright, or slightly (outwardly) canted, wall panels 35, bounding and surmounting a platform base 36.

Height adjustable feet 37, ground wheel or runner supports 38 or skids 39 are fitted, to facilitate bed movement for levelling, positioning and relocation.

Cushion suspension mounts 40 may be fitted between ground supports 38 and base unit 11 , to inhibit transmission of air conditioner (pump or fan) noise and vibration to the underlying floor.

Hydraulic or pneumatic struts (not shown) may be fitted between base unit 1 1 and mattress platform 14 to facilitate lift or tilt for access to internal conditioning, distribution and control facilities.

A master intake vent 15 is fitted into an end panel 35 to draw ambient air 20 into an enclosed volume or plenum chamber 19, defined between the base 36 and mattress support grid 14. The intake 15 draws air from the immediate (internal room) environment, but could be coupled to a more remote outside (fresh) air source, such as through an integrated or plumbed-in conduit 43 of Figure 4A.

Intakel 5 disposition and through-flow are set to minimise disturbing drafts at foot level, but promote a general air (re-)circulation in the room environment. Multiple such intakes 15 may be employed for flow spread, according to flow demands, or to preserve flow in the event of inadvertent blockage or location of restricted ventilation, such as adjacent a wall.

An overlying slatted or lattice grid 14 partially closes the plenum chamber 19 from above and supports an overlying mattress 12. The lattice slats 14 are collectively stiff enough to take mattress and bed occupant weights, weight shift and drop loads, yet can impart a modest resiliently deformable spring action.

Slat spacing is collectively sufficient for an adequate capacity emergent air flow 21 to a mattress 12. Although a simple rectilinear transverse slat spacing has been shown, other more elaborate layouts, such as diagonal or cross-hatch, can be employed.

Flow pattern 21 varies accordingly.

A bespoke mattress 12 could have local perforated 'breather' of vent lining patches, aligned with or corresponding to emergent flow pattern 21. Ventilation / Conditioning - Rationale

Generally, it is desirable that the mattress 12 itself should not become a repository for stale or stagnant air - which might otherwise form a breeding ground for mites, particularly with a high moisture content from bed occupant perspiration.

Hence the value of even a modest forced air through-flow or ventilation - even without temperature or moisture level conditioning.

As depicted in Figure 2, an array of apertures or vents 17 in the support lattice 14 allows escape of optionally pre-conditioned air 21 - that is intake air 20 brought to prescribed temperature and humidity by an internal air conditioning module 13.

A proprietary conditioner unit 13, of adequate matched capacity would typically incorporate a heat exchange matrix and fan.

In temperate climates air temperature would typically be elevated by an integral heater, and (relative) humidity levels monitored.

It is less likely, but still feasible, that refrigeration or active cooling would be required - but, if so, again humidity is monitored and a de-humidification applied as necessary to avoid a moist chill arising. It is envisaged that mattress conditioning would arise principally from the underlying plenum chamber 19 repository, but alternative or supplementary localised conditioned air feeds or boosts might be employed - as depicted in Figure 5A.

Perforated tubes, or semi-rigid (eg concertina profile) hoses 24, could be inserted into the mattress 12, to bring conditioned air 21 more directly into the core.

Similarly, as indicated in Figure 4A, direct feed 43 might be adopted to direct mattress intake (port) 44 along a mattress side 41 or end edge 42, through to a mattress exhaust (port) 46.

Dual Chamber In a particular construction, of Figures 3A and 3B, a two-stage conditioner, with dual plenum chambers in tandem, is employed.

A preliminary chamber, or intake enclosure 67, houses a high pressure blower 62, which is fed with cool air passing through (high performance) filters 60 sited in the base wall 69. Optionally, a regulated aromatherapy dosage device 61 may also interface with this chamber 67 and the outside world through the control box 47.

Cool air from this intake chamber 67 is fed through a conduit 66 to a plenum chamber 68 underlying the majority of the overall bed and mattress footprint.

Here, a re-circulatory air flow is created by a fan 63, through a duct 65, with a heating element 64.

Temperature conditioned air rises up to and progressively permeates an overlying mattress 12.

Moulded Shell(s)

Figures 13A and 13B reflect a single divan variant of Figure 3A and 3B double-divan, for ease of batch production - with light-weight, inter-nesting glass-fibre moulded shells substituted for cast or fabricated metal duct 65 and heavy outer housing 69.

An outer bath shell 90 has an upstanding peripheral rim 91 locating an overlying mattress 92.

Mattress 92 is also supported along a central longitudinal spine by an upturned trunk 93 sub-divided by an intervening bracing wall 94 into a fan chamber 95 and a distribution duct 96.

Vents 97 are disposed to allow re-circulation of air drawn by fan 98 from the immediate outside environment, through intake 102, into duct 96 and dual plenum chambers 99 on opposite sides thereof. A heater 100 is fitted into the duct 96 and/or into the fan chamber 95 along with sensors 101 to monitor air temperature. Minimal Mattress

The role of the mattress 12 itself, or rather its proportions relative to a base unit 11 , admits of considerable variation.

In some circumstances, what would otherwise purport to be a conventional discrete mattress is minimised or omitted altogether - say, in favour of an integrated cushion base.

Figures 8A and 8B represent examples of blurred division between loose overlying mattress and base cushion. Self-Contained

In a self contained version a bed 10 houses its own air conditioner 13.

That said, institutional variants, such as of Figure 10A, might plumb umbilically into a centralised distributed air condition facility, allowing economies of scale and efficiency in a master conditioner. A master conditioner could either be that already established for general room environmental conditioning, or a dedicated feed channel 52, say with higher flow capacity.

Ducted Intake

A mattress intake 44 (Figure 4A) or a base unit intake 52 (Figure 10B) could be connected to a duct or conduit 51 (Figure 10A) to external air, rather than the immediate room environment.

Bed Interconnection

Similarly, an outlet 46 (Figure 10B) could be connected to a duct or conduit 45 to another location, or vented to the ambient room environment. Excess conditioner 13 capacity in one bed 10 could be coupled to another bed - as a booster or back-up conditioning facility.

Figure 10A shows a bed 10 'plumbed-in' through a room divider wall 54, to a remote (centralised) external air conditioner (not shown) via a feed 51 , which may also supply other beds and rooms. Figure 10B shows, dedicated feed channel 52 and exhaust channel 45 at opposite bed ends.

Figure 10C shows a local external conditioner unit 53 configured within a bed-side cabinet.

A variant could draw air intake from a dedicated bedroom ventilation unit 120. A compact, single room, plate-to-plate heat exchanger (not shown) could be utilised.

The intake (or output) of unit 120 could be used to supply the bed inlet directly or via further filters.

Heat recovery could be achieved from the room exhaust 121 air. Thus, Baxi (www.baxicleanairsytems.co.uk) air conditioners could be used as air source for subject bed / mattress - say by tapping into wall socket, through an umbilical link.

Control

Figure 3A shows a control panel 47 fitted to a base unit 11 for ease of bed occupant access and/or a remote control to a master base station.

Controls 47 might regulate a temperature thermostat 48, for heating / cooling, fan speed, with a timer.

Thermostats 48 could address plenum chamber 19 and mattress 12 itself, by invasive probe(s) 50. Equivalent transducers (not shown) could be fitted to address humidity levels.

Through-Flow vs Entrapment

Bedclothes, including sheets, blankets and duvets could be of conventional construction, or adapted to promote through-flow - say by adopting a looser, more porous or permeable weave. An overall balance of through-flow, diversion, and entrapment can be struck.

Differential Mattress Conditioning

A differential mattress conditioning regime could be set up - such as, say, head cool / feat relatively warm (less cool), by localised air distribution control.

The regime could allow periodic change (manually or automatically), to take account body heat emission.

Localised conditioning could be undertaken within:

• a single mattress - albeit internal circulation would even out local differences; or

• by mattress sub-division or segmentation.

- by corresponding localisation of underlying conditioner outlets. Figures 7A through 9C show various segmented 'under or over' mattress schemes.

Figures 7A and 7B illustrate multiple discrete juxtaposed, resiliently deformable, 'base' cushions 27, entrained in an edge rim band 28, to complement or supplement overlying mattress cushion action.

In a simpler construction, base 11 is generally rigid, with the effect of a so-called 'firm- edge divan'. Mattress 12 and base 11 compression upon bed occupancy and occupant movement may itself be used to contract and expel air from the mattress 12 or mattress cells 23 - contributing, in a form of pump action, to air flow and air interchange.

Multi-Layer Mattress

A multi-layer mattress 12 or mattress support 14 may be employed to promote comfort and air exchange.

Thus a lower or base mattress layer 22 - such as one with a more regimented, disciplined or orchestrated array of discharge perforations - might serve as a diffuser to an upper overlying mattress layer with a more random open cellular construction.

Mattress Filtration Mattress walls themselves can serve for filtration through selective permeability.

Boost purge mode could be contemplated.

Bespoke Mattress Construction

A mattress 112, may be constructed to address both comfort and ventilation issues - as illustrated in Figure 14. Thus, a mattress 112 may consist of a core of various layers of latex foam, surmounted by a layer of visco-elastic foam 111.

Visco-elastic material 111 is often referred to as 'memory' foam, as it is slow to recover its shape once an indentation has been made.

In principle, the entire mattress 112 could consist solely of visco-elastic foam 111 , however, this would increase its manufacturing costs substantially.

Edge foam 113 of visco-elastic material or high density polyethylenes or other similar material could help prevent side ventilation leakage and provide mattress 112 with beneficial edge stiffness.

'Drilled' vent holes 114 through mattress 112 can direct air from the plenum chamber 1 16 in bed base 115.

The objective is to maximize the effect of forced ventilation.

Selective or grouped vent holes 114 could be used to bias ventilation to preferred areas. Mattress & Base Integration

Insofar as an overlay provides a user-friendly contact medium, and an underlying structure is required for support and conditioned air supply - a mattress 12 and base 11 could be integrated. Thus, in Figures 8A and 8B, an air bag 23 could be contrived with a porous or permeable upper surface (not detailed).

Similarly, or conversely, a permeable mattress 12 could feature internal stiffening, bracing or support ribs (not shown).

Such ribs could themselves be inflatable - even to a higher pressure than that of the conditioned air reservoir.

Soft-walled air conditioned air bag cells 23 could be grouped within a common rigid lattice frame 14.

Air bags 23 could have respective overlays or share a common overlay 32, as depicted in Figure 9A. Plug and socket interconnection, with automatic isolator valves (not shown), could be fitted to bags 23, to allow selective interconnection and (re-) configuration.

A given set of bags 23 could thus be grouped in diverse configurations to suit user(s) and room location.

Such a modular approach also applies to a rigid walled base 11. Differential Pressure Bleeds

Differential pressure bleeds could be taken from supply manifold tappings, and fed to local mattress cells - eg to contrive a stiff bounding support or bracing core, pulsating inner cells, and permeable bleed at pillow.

Shape & Size Diversity In principle, diverse bed 10 shapes or sizes could be contrived from selective (jigsaw) assembly of base cushions 29 of Figure 8B and/or base unit modules 70 of Figure 1 1 A.

Figures 11 A through 11 C show 'active' and 'passive' self-contained base modules, of simple rectangular format, for ease of construction and interfit. An active or conditioner module 70 has a conditioner, or at least forced air flow, unit 71 with boundary flow exchange ports 72.

A passive or receptor module 73 has corresponding ports 72 for ease of alignment, and to allow a (re-) circulatory flow between modules 72. 73.

Figure 11 C shows a double-bed span created from juxta-posed base modules, a central active module 72, surrounded by passive modules 73.

Figure 9C illustrates a double bed with paired single mattresses 34, upon a common base.

Different air conditions could be applied to modules, to suit respective individual circumstances.

A segmented (mattress) base and/or overlay cushion, such as of Figures 8A through 9B, preserves local bespoke conditioning.

Overlay construction can contribute to air through-flow equilibrium, stabilisation and harmonisation. Conditioning performance, and in particular rate of conditioning for a bed occupant, is determined by temperature and humidity levels set by the respective air conditioner 13 and the air through flow.

The combination or interaction of factors is impacted by the capacity of the conditioner 13. Bed Variants

Aside from divans, conditioning may be applied to other bed forms, such as a folding 'hide-away' bed 85 of Figure 12A or a sofa bed 86 of Figure 12B.

In Figure 12A a plumbed-in conditioner facility within a support wall or containment wardrobe 80 features an intake 83, conditioned air output feed conduit 82 to a bed base unit 11 , and a storage recess 81 for a mattress 12 and base unit 11 in their entirety.

In Figure 12B, a segmented mattress 88 overlies a collapse-fold base frame 87 with a conditioner unit 89 and shallow plenum chamber under-tray 84.

Figures 15 through 21 C reflect a shallow depth, slimline plenum module, formed as a unitary moulding and set upon a minimal base structure.

In Figure 15, a self-contained conditioner unit 140 is fitted in a recess in a plenum floor 133, to feed conditioned air to a plenum chamber 155 whose output area embraces an entire mattress footprint.

Conditioner 140 draws ambient air into an intake grill or mesh 154 through a HEPA filter cartridge and outputs after heating into the plenum chamber 155.

Mattress (170) support is by overlay upon a series of longitudinally spaced transverse bridging slats 132, set between opposed ledges or shoulders 134 formed in stepped plenum side wall profiles.

A rim or ledge upstand 136 at each side of plenum module 135 moulding provides lateral location and restrain for an overlying mattress (omitted for clarity). Figures 16A and 16B reflect a minimal hollow base 130, with a plenum module 135 and inset slats (omitted for clarity) set upon a perimeter wall 131.

A foot 139 at each corner lifts the base 130 from a support surface or floor and allows air flow underneath the bed to a conditioner intake filter 145. The plenum module 135 sits under its own weight upon base 130, without need of fastenings; but a hinge connection 159 shown in Figure 16A could discipline elevation for access.

In Figure 16A, an electric motor 142 drives a drum fan 141 to draw intake air 144 through the filter 145 and drive it through a heater matrix 143.. A temperature sensor 148 monitors heater 143 output delivery air temperature 146 to the plenum chamber 155 through a housing side wall opening.

An flow trip switch 149 is operated upon obstruction of through-flow, to disable the fan and heater under controller 147 to avoid unit over-heating.

As an added safety feature, the housing body for conditioner 140 is moulded of a fire- resistant resin.

A controller circuit board 147 determines fan 141 and heater 143 action, to user demand set with a remote control 138 connected by an umbilical cord 137.

Timing and pre-programming functions may be incorporated into controller 147 for pre-conditioning. Hard wired or radio linkage with other controllers for otherwise separate plenum modules in the same bed may also be provided.

Figure 17B shows a lid seal 155 interposed between intake filter 145 and working parts of conditioner 140.

Figure 17A shows an intake grill 153 set into a plenum floor to interface with filter 145. A variant base 150 is also depicted, with a continuous upstand rim 152 of a perimeter wall 151 for mattress (not shown) retention on all sides.

A plenum module perimeter edge may sit snugly within or upon this rim 152 for local edge sealing engagement with an overlaid mattress. The Figure 17A, 17B arrangement offers more convenient access for filter 145 cleaning and conditioner 140 maintenance and service.

Figures 18A, 18B reflect further construction refinement, with lift out plenum module 165 located by interaction of edge sealing face 168 with a complementary profile upstand rim 169 of ah underlying base wall 161 of base 160. A mattress (again omitted for clarity) sits within perimeter rim 169 upon a peripheral shelf 155.

Slats 162 are set level with top flange 158 of plenum module 135 within local recesses 167 upon and bridging between opposed shelves 164 above the plenum floor 163 to create an intervening plenum chamber 155 into which discharges conditioned air output of conditioner unit 140.

Figures 19A through 21 C depict various double divan base and attendant plenum configurations.

In Figure 19A a single mattress 170 sits upon a base 160 within a perimeter locating rim or wall 161. Figure 19B shows a plenum chamber 155 between mattress 170 underside and plenum module 135.

A conditioner unit 140 draws intake air 144 through filter 145 from below bed base160 and discharges conditioned air output 146 into plenum chamber 155 from which it percolates through mattress 170. An optional fabric or upholstered covering 171 can be applied to wall 161.

A corresponding enlarged arrangement is used for the double divan of Figure 20A - with alternative underpinning ventilation of Figures 20B and 20C/D.

In Figure 20B variant, a double mattress 180 is set upon a double divan base 181 housing a double span individual plenum 182 and conditioner unit 184 with intervening double span slates185.

The conditioner 185 forced through flow capacity is uprated accordingly.

Figure 20C alternative uses twin juxtaposed discrete divan bases, with respective plenums and conditioners. This allows some differential control over each mattress side for shared bed occupancy. Figure 20D is an exploded view of Figure 20C better to convey constructional detail.

Figure 21 A reflects unitary or split mattress construction set upon conjoined divans, with respective plenums and conditioner units.

Figure 21 B depicts individual (single) mattresses 190A, 190B upon discrete plenum chambers 192, 196, with respective conditioner units 194, 198. A base 191 can be split construction, with mating interfacel 95, for ease of transport and installation

Figure 21 C depicts a unitary mattress 190 upon discrete plenum modules 192, 196..

Mix and Match Features

The various features described can be selectively 'mixed and matched' - it is impractical to depict every feasible combination.

Integrated Moulding

A unitary plenum chamber moulding could feature more integrated base frame structure. Similarly, multiple individual mattress support slats could be integrated into a unitary matrix, grid or mesh moulding.

Summary

The invention admits of:

• full or partial temperature and/or humidity conditioning - even mere ventilation; • bespoke permeable or conventional mattress or cushion overlay;

• modular base unit or mattress for differential local conditioning and overall bed reconfiguration;

• integrated or remote conditioner unit;

• co-operative combinations of forced (conditioned) air and interface cushion; • simplified modular construction of plenum and conditioner with a minimal base.

Component List

1 0 bed

1 1 base

1 2 mattress

1 3 air conditioner

1 4 mattress support

1 5 intake vent

1 6 control

1 7 vent

1 8 spring

1 9 plenum chamber

20 unconditioned air flow

21 conditioned air flow

22 perforated foam diffusion layer

23 conditioner cell

24 feed hose

25 port

26 overlay

27 base cushion cell

28 stiffener cell

29 intemesting cushion cell web restraint corner pillar cover sheet mesh restraint scalloped profile mattress element side panel platform base adjustable feet wheel / runner supports skids cushion suspension mounting mattress side mattress end perforated tube intake conduit outlet controls temperature thermostat probe wall pipe feed channel air conditioner bed side unit wall wheel fan control on/off switch timer filter aromatherapy input device high pressure blower re-circulation fan heating element heating duct connecting pipe intake enclosure main plenum chamber base wall module base unit fan side vent left side module right side module bottom module wall 81 recess

82 feed pipe

83 intake

84 shallow plenum under-tray

85 fold-away bed

86 sofa bed

87 foldable base

88 foldable mattress

89 intake

90 bath shell

91 rim

92 mattress

93 trunk

94 wall

95 fan chamber

96 distribution duct

97 vent

98 fan

99 plenum chamber

100 heater

101 sensor

102 intake

110 core

111 visco-elastic foam

112 bespoke mattress

113 edge foam

114 vent holes

115 base

116 plenum chamber

120 bedroom ventilation unit

121 exhaust

130 bed base

131 base side wall

132 (transverse bridging) slat

133 base floor

134 shoulder / ledge

135 plenum module

136 rim

137 (umbilical) cable

138 control unit

139 foot

140 conditioner unit

141 fan

142 fan motor

143 (matrix) heater 144 intake (pre-filtered) air flow

145 (HEPA) conditioner intake filter

146 output (conditioned) air flow

147 controller

148 temperature sensor

149 flow (obstruction) trip switch

150 base

151 side wall

1 52 rim

1 53 lid / seal^*

1 54 intake grill

1 55 plenum chamber

1 56 shelf^*

1 59 hinge

1 60 base

1 61 side wall

162 (removable) slat

163 floor

164 ledge / shoulder

165 plenum module

167 (slat location / retention) recess

168 sealing face

1 69 retention + sealing rim

170 (single) mattress

171 fabric cover

174 double mattress

1 80 double mattress

1 81 side wall

1 82 double plenum module

183 divider wall

1 84 high capacity conditioner unit

1 85 double span slat

1 86 single plenum module

1 87 single plenum module

188 single conditioner unit

189 single conditioner unit

1 90 super king size mattress

190A split mattress

190B split mattress

191 side wall

192 single plenum module

193 plenum interface

194 single conditioner unit

195 plenum interface

196 single plenum module

198 single conditioner unit

Claims

ClaimsNB bracketed phrases, vis { .. }, set alongside claim numbering are, just as with that numbering, merely for ease of identification, and as such form no part of claim scope or interpretation.

1 .{Environmentally Conditioned Bed}

2. {Unitary Plenum Moulding}

Furniture of Claim 1 , with a unitary plenum chamber moulding bounded by a peripheral wall upstand with a perimeter edge flange for sealing contact with an overlaid mattress.

3. {Mattress Location Rim}

Furniture of either preceding claim, with a perimeter ledge or rim for mattress location or retention.

4. {Stepped Plenum Wall Profile}

Furniture of any preceding claim, with a plenum wall of stepped profile to provide opposed supporting ledges for an overlaid mattress and allowing air flow between plenum and mattress.

5. {Mattress Support Slats}

Furniture of any preceding claim, with spaced transverse bridging elements, such as slats, between opposite sides for overlaid mattress support over the plenum chamber.

6. {Conditioner Mounting}

Furniture of any preceding claim, having a moulded plenum tray floor with integral mounting recess for a conditioner unit, and aperture for air intake.

7. {Slimline Plenum Profile}

Furniture of any preceding claim, with a discrete plenum chamber module, configured as a shallow depth or slimline profile tray.

8. {Multiple Plenums}

Furniture of any preceding claim, with multiple plenum modules for localised or collective conditioning of an overlying mattress.

9. {Fluid Cells}

Furniture of any preceding claims, with one or more pressurised fluid cells disposed as localised overlays for one or more plenum chambers.

10.{Mattress}

A porous mattress, cushion or upholstery, for furniture of any preceding claim, incorporating a plurality of cells, with permeable cell walls for air through flow.

11. {Bed as Illustrated}

An environmentally conditioned bed, substantially as hereinbefore described, with reference to, and as shown in, the accompanying drawings.